Forthbank Wind Energy Development - Partnerships for Renewables

Forthbank Wind Energy Development
13 Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Geology
13.1 Introduction
13.1.1 The purpose of this chapter is to provide an assessment of the potential hydrological,
hydrogeological and geological effects associated with the proposed wind energy
development.
13.1.2 This chapter details the existing baseline situation in terms of the hydrological, hydrogeological
and geological conditions present within and adjacent to the proposed wind energy
development. An assessment of effects has been undertaken for the construction, operation
and de-commissioning stages of the proposed wind energy development, identifying
associated activities that have the potential to affect the existing baseline situation.
13.1.3 Effects on hydrology, hydrogeology and geology may result in secondary ecological effects on
habitats, or species. Effects on ecological receptors (non-avian) are considered in Chapter 11
(Ecology).
13.2 Methodology
Study and Site Areas
13.2.1 The proposed wind energy development site encloses an area of approximately 37.9ha, of
which 2.6ha will be utilised for the proposed wind energy development infrastructure. As
described in Chapter 1 (Introduction) the site is bound by the Firth of Forth to the southwest
and the Black Devon watercourse to the south and east (a small tributary river that flows into
the Forth).
13.2.2 The existing site consists of two main areas, an area to the south-east which comprises the
main body of the closed landfill and an associated restored area to the north-west.
13.2.3 Studied catchment areas are shown in Figure 13.1. Other specific waterbodies and wind farms
developments are considered in order to assess potential hydrological linkages or cumulative
effects.
Approach and Methods
13.2.4 This assessment has involved the following:
• consultation with relevant statutory and non-statutory bodies;
• detailed desk studies and site visits to establish the baseline conditions of the
proposed wind energy development site;
November 2010 Chapter 13 Page 1
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