ÓûÂþɬ

Nearest are in Oban.

Air Quality data likely needed to inform ES with regards to impacts of traffic flows on local environment during construction and operation, as well as emissions from vessels. 

Baseline noise data is needed to allow an assessment of potential effects on sensitive receptors, notably residential properties in the vicinity of the ferry terminal. Representative baseline levels are used to model potential construction and operational noise levels at these locations. 

Guidance is to avoid summer periods as these are typically quieter/not normal patterns – we may recommend a survey that spans both to get representative ‘commuter’ traffic and representative ‘tourist’ traffic – TBC by a noise specialist. 

To inform transport assessment of traffic flows associated with construction and operation and to inform air quality/noise assessments – this data is used to derive forecast flows in the future to support Air quality and noise assessments. 

A clear understanding of current traffic volumes/congestion will be used to develop the design requirements of the marshalling yard redesign. 

Up to date ambient underwater noise levels during a representative period will be important to shape the potential effects to sensitive marine receptors, notably harbour porpoise for which the adjacent SAC is designated for. 

The site is not pristine/undisturbed due to established ferry routes and therefore the availability of accurate data will allow a proportionate assessment of underwater noise generation and propagation. 

Glas Eileanan SPA – common tern breeding 

Cnuic Agac Cladach Mhuile – golden eagle breeding 

May be required to inform Habitats Regulations Appraisal of the construction/operation of the replacement ferry terminal (do not envisage operational effects but we do need the data on local bird activity to inform conclusions). 

Consultation with Nature Scot recommended prior to finalising the scope of these surveys. 

To obtain accurate data on harbour porpoise and other marine mammal presence within Craignure Bay and study area to inform marine ecology effects during construction and operation. 

Surveys depend on the target species but recommend spring/summer to capture most sensitive period. This will inform any mitigation required and/or conditions to subsequent licences. 

Consultation with Nature Scot recommended prior to finalising the scope of these surveys. 

To inform landscape, seascape and visual assessments of the proposed development. 

Lynn of Lorn National Scenic Area opposite side of Sound of Mull 

ZTV = zone of theoretical visibility to inform need for assessments 

Required to inform dredge licensing to ensure that contaminants are known within the seabed sediment and to gather information on water quality to inform assessments. 

Note that this will require its own marine licence from MD-LOT 

May be required to inform archaeological assessments of the palaeo-landscape below seabed level – many parts of the UK were affected by previous ice age cycles and these features are present on the seabed. 

The need for this activity will be determined by a suitable archaeological specialist as part of the EIA Scoping activity 

Note that this will require its own marine licence from MD-LOT (part of the activity above – only one licence required to cover both). 

To inform a contaminated land desk study required for planning/EIA to inform terrestrial impacts, due to the requirement to excavate the site to redevelop. 

Scope to be confirmed but considered likely to be required. 

To inform BNG requirements as part of planning and to provide information on ecological impacts and protected species that may be in the site boundary. 

Statutory requirement of 10% not mandatory in Scotland but always nice to show possibility of landscaping and site improvements for local community – e.g. as part of new terminal building. 

Could be done as part of sediment vibrocore campaign to inform assessment of marine ecology and dredge impacts to any notable species along with any invasive species present on port structures to be aware of. 

Seasonal – summer survey window (April-Sept). 

Scope to be consulted with NatureScot. 

To ensure updated survey information is available at the time of writing the EIA (not for scoping stage) 

Can be done at any time. 

An economic impact study may be required to inform the socioeconomics assessment – this will look at the potential effects during construction (on local economy and job opportunities) and operation (on the local economy and job opportunities/tourism). 

These studies are useful to demonstrate any forecast demand in ferry access (PAX/Frequency of trips) in line with tourism, local economy and ferry upgrades.