Forthbank Wind Energy Development - Partnerships for Renewables

Forthbank Wind Energy Development
Effects on Cycling
15.4.53 There is likely to be only a minor effect on the National Cycle Network (number 76) and other
cycle ways in the vicinity of the application area. As for walkers, the views experienced from
this route are unlikely to be a major factor in the use of the route. The route itself will be
unaffected.
Effects on Fishing
15.4.54 Although the application area is not a key fishing location, given the relatively low background
water quality in the Forth and Black Devon, any existing fishing interest will not be prevented
by the proposed wind energy development, as right of access will apply to all legitimate users
of the application area. The main effects on any nearby areas used by anglers (most notably
the Gartmorn Dam) are likely to be visual (although, as for walking and cycling, views are
unlikely to form the main reason for choosing a particular point to fish). Any impacts on
hydrology during the construction and operation of the proposed wind energy development
which could have the potential to increase sediment load to the river, and therefore effect fish
numbers will be mitigated by measures in place on-site as discussed in Chapter 13 (Hydrology,
Hydrogeology and Geology).
15.4.55 The close proximity of the application area to the rivers may also result in noise effects upon
people carrying out fishing activities. Although of a low level, these may be apparent to people
who value the “quietness” of an area – though the application area is close to major roads,
towns and industrial activities. There may also be a perception that vibration as a result of
construction or operation will disturb fish. The effects of noise on the local area are discussed
in Chapter 8. Although this considers effects on residential receptors, rather than exterior
receptors, the significance of the effects on the nearest receptors was assessed as being in
accordance with the recommendations of the ETSU-R-97 report. This is based on a 24hour
exposure, rather than short-term exposure, as is the case for fishers. The impact of potential
shadow flicker on nearby receptors, including possible fishers is assessed in Chapter 15.
15.4.56 Therefore there is likely to be effects of only minor significance as a result of the proposal on
people undertaking fishing, based on the assessments carried out during the EIA.
Effects on Golfing
15.4.57 The proposed wind energy development is approximately 3km from the nearest golf courses –
Alloa and Braehead. As for other tourist and recreational activities, the views experienced by
golfers are unlikely to be the prime benefit of using the golf course. The impact on views from
the golf courses, as for pathways will depend on local circumstances including the extent to
which vegetation and urban environment filter or obstruct views towards the site. However, the
sensitivity of the receptor will depend on the opinions of the individual golfers, and the weight
they place on the current view. However, given that the views are not likely to be the main
benefit of the course, significance is likely to be minor.
November 2010 Chapter 15 Page 21
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