1
SEA ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
PART 1
To Sea.gateway@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Or
SEA Gateway
Scottish Executive
Area 1 H (Bridge)
Victoria quay
Edinburgh EH
PART 2
An SEA Environmental Report is attached for the plan entitled
Aberdeen Local Development Plan – Proposed Plan
The Responsible Authority is:
Aberdeen City Council
SEA ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
PART 4
Contact Name Andrew Brownrigg
Job Title Team Leader (Development Plan)
Contact Address
Planning and Sustainable Development
Enterprise, Planning & Infrastructure
Aberdeen City Council
Business Hub 4
Ground Floor North
Marischal College
Broad Street
Aberdeen
AB10 1AB
Contact tel no 01224 523317
Contact email abrownrigg@aberdeencity.gov.uk
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PART 5
Signature
Abrownrigg
Date 25 January 2012
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Contents
Non-Technical Summary.......................................................................................... 5
1 Purpose of this Environmental Report and key stages ..................... 5
2 The Context of the Strategy.................................................................. 5
3 Baseline/Evolution, Characteristics of Areas & Env. Problems........ 6
4 Assessment of Effects .......................................................................... 6
5 Broad Mitigation Measures................................................................... 8
6 Monitoring.............................................................................................. 9
Environmental Report ............................................................................................ 10
1 Introduction.......................................................................................... 10
2 Key Facts.............................................................................................. 10
3 Description of Local Development Plan Content.............................. 11
4 Plan, Programme or Strategy Context............................................... 18
4.1 Relationship with Other PPS and Environmental Objectives................. 18
4.2 Relevant Aspects of the Current State of the Environment ................... 21
4.3 Likely Evolution of the Environment Without the LDP ........................... 21
4.4 Characteristics of Areas Likely to be Significantly Affected................... 22
4.5 Environmental Problems ....................................................................... 23
5 Strategic Environmental Assessment ............................................... 25
5.1 Alternatives/Options .............................................................................. 25
5.2 Scoping In/Out of SEA Issues ............................................................... 25
5.3 Assessment of Environmental Effects and Mitigation Measures........... 25
5.4 Proposed SEA Mitigation Measures...................................................... 27
5.5 Monitoring.............................................................................................. 37
6 Next Steps............................................................................................ 41
6.1 Consultation to Date.............................................................................. 41
6.2 Post-adoption ........................................................................................ 41
6.3 Summary and Analysis of Comments ................................................... 43
7 Environmental Report Appendices.................................................... 56
Appendix 7.a: Assessment of Strategic Options ...................................................... 56
Appendix 7.b: Assessment of Policies and Supplementary Guidance ..................... 57
Appendix 7.c: Assessment of Main Issues Report Policy Alternatives ..................... 79
Appendix 7.d: Assessment of Existing Local Plan Policies ...................................... 84
Appendix 7.e: Assessment Masterplanning Policies ................................................ 93
Appendix 7.f: Cumulative Effect Assessment of Options/Policies............................ 95
Appendix 7.g: Assessment of Growth Options ......................................................... 96
Appendix 7.h: Assessment of Brownfield Sites ........................................................ 99
Appendix 7.i: Assessment of Preferred Sites ......................................................... 109
Appendix 7.j: Other Opportunity Sites Identified..................................................... 115
Appendix 7.k: Assessment of Alternative Sites ...................................................... 118
Appendix 7.l: Sites Identified for Masterplanning ................................................... 128
Appendix 7.m: Links to other PPS & Env. Protection Objectives ........................... 131
Appendix 7.n: Baseline data, targets and trends.................................................... 144
8 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment.................................................... 162
9 Maps ................................................................................................... 165
Map 1 Aberdeen Green Space Network................................................................. 165
Map 2 Listed Buildings ........................................................................................... 166
Map 3 Conservation Areas..................................................................................... 166
Map 4 Townscapes ‘The Green’............................................................................. 166
Map 4 Townscapes ‘The Green’............................................................................. 167
Map 5 Designated Landscapes and Gardens ‘Duthie Park’................................... 167
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Map 6 Scheduled Ancient Monuments................................................................... 168
Map 7 Sites and Monuments Record ..................................................................... 168
Map 8 Development Options.................................................................................. 169
Map 9 Masterplan Zones........................................................................................ 173
Map 10 Aberdeen Beach Masterplan..................................................................... 174
Map 11 Regeneration Priority Areas....................................................................... 174
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Non-Technical Summary
1 Purpose of this Environmental Report and key stages
We (Aberdeen City Council) have written this environmental report (“the report”) for
the Aberdeen Local Development Plan (ALDP) under the Environmental Assessment
(Scotland) Act 2005. The process taken to write this report is called Strategic
Environmental Assessment (SEA). The reason for undertaking SEA is to address all
the effects that a plan, programme or strategy (PPS) will have on the environment.
The overall aim of the process is to protect the environment. Throughout this SEA
process we have taken the views of others into account before coming to final
decisions.
The key stages of this SEA are pre-screening, screening, scoping, environmental
report and post-adoption statement. We do a pre-screening of a plan, as the first
stage, when we show that a plan is not likely to have any effect on the environment;
or even it has any effects at all, they will be minimal. After a pre-screening, we will do
no further SEA. We do a screening of a plan, to replace the first stage, to find out
whether we should do an SEA at all. When a plan is likely to have significant (i.e.
very bad, damaging, large or long-lasting) effects on the environment, we will do an
SEA. But if the effect is not significant, we will not take any further action. At the
second stage, we scope a plan to set out how much information should be in an
environmental report and how long we will consult with others on the report. In the
environmental report, during the third stage, we show how we assess the effects of a
plan on the environment; how we could address those effects through a process
called mitigation, and how we will monitor any significant effects of the plan on the
environment. When we address the concerns of everyone through consultations
before adopting the plan, we must inform everyone about what difference the SEA
process and their views have made to the final plan. And we do this through a postadoption
statement as the last stage. Because of the nature of the plan, we skipped
the first stage of the process and began by scoping the plan. During the third stage,
we prepared an interim environmental report for the Main Issues Report published in
2009. During this fourth stage, we have prepared an environmental report (this
report) to go with the ALDP – Proposed Plan and Proposed Supplementary
Guidance being published in 2010.
2 The Context of the Strategy
We have used the Main Issues Report and the ALDP to engage with the public. The
Main Issues Report has formed the main focus for discussions on the options for
sites that would be developed in Aberdeen and for the policies that will guide
development. The engagement has helped us to note changes we must make to the
options. In the ALDP we have set out how we will allocate land for housing and
employment over two phases in line with the Aberdeen City and Shire Structure Plan
2009. The ALDP contains 56 policies which we have supported with 29 pieces of
supplementary guidance and masterplans. The first phase will run from 2007 to 2016
while the second phase will run from 2017 to 2023. We have included in the
Proposed Plan some strategic reserve sites up to 2030.
To guide and help us deliver what we plan to do in the ALDP and other related
strategies like the Local Housing Strategy and the Local Transport Strategy, we have
made use of high-level documents and statements. These documents and
statements include the Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Structure Plan vision,
6
Aberdeen City Community Plan and the Aberdeen City and Shire Housing Needs
and Demand Assessment.
This Environmental Report covers the key issues, outcomes, topics and processes of
the SEA process listed at paragraph 1-9 of Schedule 3 of the 2005 Act. We have
used 93 documents to influence how we have written this strategy, which affects
Aberdeen, the North East, Scotland or the World. These documents cover:
climate and water
plant and animal life on the land and in the water
noise
town centres
old buildings
how we use energy
how we throw away waste
how we travel, walk and cycle
exercise and health
3 Baseline/Evolution, Characteristics of Areas & Env. Problems
We have identified a number of problems and issues in Aberdeen. In this section, we
have listed the significant environmental problems and issues that we have
considered in this report. We also use this section to say how baseline information in
the area looks like. These issues show the challenges we must deal with through this
Plan.
We have serious air quality problems in Aberdeen. The increasing number of
cars, trucks and vehicles that pass through the City worsens this.
We burn a lot of fuel to heat our homes and to drive our cars. This is pumping
more CO2 into the air and causing our carbon and ecological footprints to
rise. Future climate change will affect how much water we will have and how
stable our soils will be.
Petrol stations, factories, and other industries have all affected how good or
bad our soil and water is.
How we throw away waste also affects our soils, water and climate.
Aberdeen is rich in cultural heritage and landscape, but the houses we have
built in the past are putting pressure on these resources.
New buildings are putting pressure on animal and plant life (biodiversity).
When we have good parks or open spaces, people will want to build and live
around them.
Increasing house prices
The make up of the population is an issue that needs to be considered for
future development. For example, there are a range of age groups living in
Aberdeen, but because we are living longer there will be an increased
proportion of older people, and there is an increase in people coming to live
here from other countries.
4 Assessment of Effects
We have put together how the ALDP effects the environment in Table 1 below.
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Table 1: Assessment of Effects
SEA Issue Plan Impact
Air and Climatic factors We found that the effects of the plan on the environment are
mixed (i.e. positive, negative & neutral). Most people drive
cars, motorbikes or lorries and traffic jams cause problems
for our air quality and climate. New buildings will use less
heat and electricity and will benefit the climate. Lots of
development will pump more gases into the air that cause
global warming. Development on green areas might increase
the chances of rivers flooding.
Water The overall effects of the plan on water are negative,
because of the numbers of houses we want to develop, and
this will increase the amount of water we take from the River
Dee. Development on green areas might increase the
chances of rivers flooding.
Soil When we build houses, shops, factories and roads, the soil
on which we put these buildings up can be damaged.
Increased waste will lead to more landfill, which is bad for
soil. The development of polluted sites will benefit soil
because it will have to clean up the pollution.
Biodiversity (flora and
fauna)
The overall effects of the plan on plants and animals are very
negative. Because if we develop 36,000 new houses in
Aberdeen, we must take some greenfield sites. Development
on Greenfield sites may destroy the places where plants and
animals are found. The River Dee is the home to special fish
and animals and development may harm them.
Population and Health The overall effects of the plan on people are positive, and in
some cases very positive. If traffic from new development
makes air quality worse it may have a negative affect on
human health.
Cultural Heritage We found that the effects of the plan on the special or old
buildings are mixed (i.e. positive, negative & neutral). Where
the effects are negative, these are very small. Design policies
will make the impact small.
Landscape The overall effects of the plan on our surroundings are mixed
– positive and others negative. Development that can be
seen from lots of places can have negative affects on views
and scenery.
Material Assets The overall effect of the plan on wealth creation through new
buildings and roads is very good.
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5 Broad Mitigation Measures
Some of the developments and/or projects that are in the Local Development Plan
will have to do environmental impact assessments (EIAs) as appropriate. The
development actions supporting the Local Development Plan, which promote new
developments or projects should be subject to appropriate assessment if they are
likely to have adverse affects on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites. For the strategic
options, policies, and sites we have assessed, we have shown how we would
address their negative or positive affects in Table 2 below:
Table 2: Mitigation Measures
SEA Issue Mitigation Measures
Air and
Climatic
factors
We will seek to enhance (i.e. add value to) the positive impacts as we
work with our partners. We will look to reduce car dependence and
provide people with choice on how they travel. We will have a mix of
houses, jobs, shops and schools close together so that the buildings
will not damage our climate and air. We will avoid building on land that
floods. We will make sure buildings need less heat and electricity.
Water We will work with Scottish Water to make sure that the houses built
will have sufficient water. We will work with builders to ensure that the
buildings will not use too much water. We will build and maintain
structures called “SUDS” to manage surface water from the city. We
will make sure that areas which flood when it rains will be avoided or
zoned as an open space.
Soil We will require new developments to clean up harmful pollution where
appropriate. We will recycle more waste and reduce waste going to
landfill.
Biodiversity
(flora and
fauna)
When we are building structures called “SUDS” to take surface water
from urban areas, we will make sure that they can encourage
biodiversity (i.e. some plant and animal life) to live and grow within the
SUDS system. We will also encourage the provision of open spaces,
including wildlife areas, in new developments. We will also protect
special areas where we find plants and animals (small and large). We
will keep areas for animals to move from place to place.
Population
and Health
We will encourage the provision of services, jobs, houses and facilities
that cater for all sectors of society, old and young. We will avoid
building where there are risks to health like areas of bad air quality or
smell.
Cultural
Heritage
We will look to protect our most valued features wherever possible and
encourage good design in new developments.
Landscape We will look to protect our most valued landscapes and landscape
features and encourage good masterplanning and design. We will not
build on the areas that are easily seen from lots of different places.
Material
Assets
We will make sure that roads, schools, hospitals, drains and jobs
required for new developments are put in place. We would make sure
that the plan supports all of this.
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6 Monitoring
We will monitor the significant negative and positive affects of the plan through the
monitoring plan that we have set out in the environmental report. We have stated
what actions we must carry out, who must carry out each of the actions and when we
must carry them out.
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Environmental Report
1 Introduction
The purpose of this Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Environmental
Report is to address all the effects that the Aberdeen Local Development Plan Proposed
Plan (ALDP) will have on the environment. The report has been written
under the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005.
The process of SEA for the ALDP has involved an interim stage in the SEA process.
To produce a local development plan there is a requirement to publish at least three
plans during the entire process. The first stage requires the production of a main
issues report, for which we prepared an Interim Environmental Report, the Main
Issues Report identified options and alternatives for land allocations and also for
changing policies. Following analysis of comments on the Main Issues Report and
the Interim Environmental Report the ALDP has been prepared. This Environmental
Report has been produced to inform the content of the ALDP and has been
published for consultation alongside this document. This Environmental Report has
been amended to follow the format of the ALDP and provide an assessment of its
content. The assessment of options and alternatives discussed within Main Issues
Report are still contained in this assessment, but the ALDP only presents the
preferred option. The assessments have been updated from the Interim
Environmental Report to take into account comments from the consultation
authorities and the public.
Following this introduction, Section 2 tabulates the key facts. Next, Section 3
describes the content of the PPS while Section 4 discusses the issues that set the
context for the strategy such as other PPS and environmental protection objectives,
baseline data, the evolution of the baseline without the PPS; and environmental
problems relevant to the plan. Section 5 then looks at the scope and level of details
comprising alternatives, scoping in/out issues, assessment framework, SEA
objectives, cumulative effects assessment, and mitigation as well as monitoring. The
Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) requires us to carry out an appraisal of the significant
impacts the Aberdeen Local Development Plan may have on the River Dee Special
Area of Conservation, this is set out in section 6. The next steps are outlined in
Section 7, while the Appendices occupy Section 8 and 9. A strategic Flood Risk
Assessment has been included in section 10.
2 Key Facts
Name of
Responsible
Authority
Aberdeen City Council
Title of the PPS Aberdeen Local Development Plan
What Prompted the
PPS
Planning & etc. (Scotland) Act 2006
Subject Land Use
Period Covered by
the PPS
2012-2023
Frequency of
Updates
Every five years
Area covered by the
PPS
Aberdeen City
Purpose and/or To set the framework for the development of land in Aberdeen
11
objectives of the
PPS
City
Contact Point Andrew Brownrigg (Senior Planner)
Planning and Infrastructure
Enterprise, Planning and Infrastructure
Aberdeen City Council
St Nicholas House
Broad Street
ABERDEEN
AB10 1GY
Telephone 01224 523317
3 Description of Local Development Plan Content
The ALDP is made up of 3 key parts: 1. vision, 2. the spatial strategy and 3.
Delivering Development (land use policies). Within this section a summary of these 3
key parts, what is included, and how the SEA has influenced their content is detailed.
1 Vision
The vision for the ALDP has been taken from the Structure Plan vision and it is: “By
2030 Aberdeen City and Shire will be an even more attractive, prosperous and
sustainable European city region and an excellent place to visit and do business. We
will be recognised for:
Our enterprise and inventiveness, particularly in the knowledge economy and
in high-value markets;
The unique qualities of our environment; and
Our high quality of life.
We will have acted confidently and taken courageous decisions necessary to further
develop a robust and resilient economy and to lead the way towards development
being sustainable, including dealing with climate change and creating a more
inclusive society.”
This vision has been taken from the Structure Plan, which has been subject to SEA
and there has not bee a need to assess the vision in this Environmental Report.
2 Spatial Strategy
The spatial strategy is the first main section in the ALDP. The spatial strategy deals
with the land use allocations and the way in which these will be delivered. The spatial
strategy is split into 3 main areas: brownfield development, regeneration areas, and
greenfield development. Table 3.1 below identifies the allowances required by the
structure plan, and the ALDP seeks to deliver allocations to 2023 within each
category: city centre, brownfield, regeneration areas, and greenfield
Table 3.1: Structure Plan Housing Allowances
Housing
Allowances
Strategic
Reserve
(greenfield
only)
Employment
Land
Allocations
Employment
Land – Strategic
Reserve*
2007-
2016
2017-
2023
2024-
2030
2007-2023 2024-2030
Brownfield 4,000 3,000 3,000
Regeneration
Areas
500 2,000 2,500
105 hectares 70 hectares
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Greenfield 12,000 5,000 4,000
Total 16,500 10,000 9,500 105 hectares 70 hectares
The following section will summarise the content of these sections identify the
allocations that have been made through the Local Development Plan and the
alternatives considered.
City Centre
The City Centre plays a major role in the commercial, economic, social, civic and
cultural life of Aberdeen and the wider north east. It is an important regional centre
providing a focus for employment and business interaction, it offers access to a wide
range of goods and services, and it is a place where many people meet socially and
choose to live and visit. This section provides the framework in which development in
the City Centre will take place, and includes three policies: C1 City Centre
Development, C2 city Centre Business Zone and C3 Union Street Changes of Use.
The alternative option considered through the Main Issues Report was to adopt an
ad-hoc, piecemeal approach to city centre development whenever the need arises.
Brownfield development
The ALDP seeks to deliver at least the first phase of brownfield housing allowances
2007-2016, and also identifies sites to meet the allowances of second phase. The list
of brownfield opportunity sites is contained in Appendix 7.h, and contained the
assessment of these sites. The ALDP is supportive of all brownfield development
through policy, and it is expected that new opportunities may arise during the life of
the plan. There are finite opportunities for brownfield development in Aberdeen and
following assessment all sites are viewed as suitable to accommodate development,
and would contribute towards sustainable development. For these reasons no
alternatives have been identified and all sites are contained in the ALDP.
In addition to the brownfield sites listed in Appendix 7.h, brownfield sites that have
been granted planning consent have been listed and identified as development
opportunities. Development of some of these sites is currently in progress and others
have existing planning permission, and it is not necessary to undertake an
environmental assessment of these sites.
Regeneration Areas
Sites have been identified within the priority areas for regeneration, which are:
Middlefield, Cummings Park, Northfield, Tillydrone, Woodside, Seaton and Torry.
These sites are listed below. These sites provide an allowance of 500 homes for the
period up to 2016, with some potential sites identified for the subsequent period.
These sites have been assessed at part of the brownfield opportunities contained in
Appendix 7.h. Those sites without OP references are not identified on the proposals
map because they either: development is underway, the site has existing planning
consent or there is not a requirement for planning consent. For the same reasons as
the brownfield opportunity sites no alternative options have been identified.
2007-2016 2017-2023 2024-2030 Total
Middlefield Regeneration Area
OP21 Manor Walk 80 - - OP116
Smithfield School 68 - - Northfield
Regeneration Area
OP36 Former Byron Park 28 - - -
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Nursery
OP34Former Marchburn
School
35 - - Tillydrone
Regeneration Area
OP88 Aberdon House 61 - OP100
Donside Paper Mills 278 - - 278
OP121 Former Tillydrone
Primary school
63 - - Hayton
Road 30 - - OP117
St Machar Primary
School
96 - - Torry
Regeneration Area
OP117 1-7 Crombie Road 32 - - Double
2 Bar, 22 Balnagask
Road
20 - - Part
of OP129 Torry
Research Station, Greyhope
Road
46 - - OP127
Victoria Road School 64 - - Woodside
Regeneration Area
OP81 1 Western Road 22 - - OP89
Ex Balgownie Machine
Centre
29 - - OP108
Kittybrewster Depot
(Scottish Water)
157
OP81 Woodside
Congregational Church
7
Totals 1116 1,482
Structure Plan Allowances 500 2,000 2,500 2,500
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Greenfield Development
Sites have been identified to meet the requirements of the Structure Plan on
greenfield sites - this includes both the 17,000 homes up to 2023 and 175 hectares
of employment land up to 2030. Many of these opportunities have a mixture of uses.
These are in addition to sites allocated in the current 2008 Local Plan which have not
yet been developed. The broad geographical distribution of these sites is shown in
Table 3.2.
Table 3.2: Greenfield Development Allowances and Allocations
Housing Allowances 2007-2016 2017-2023 2024-
2030
Total
Bridge of Don/Grandhome 3,210 2,100 2,300 7,610
Dyce/Bucksburn/Woodside 3,300 1,200 740 5,240
Kingswells and Greenferns 1,520 350 400 2,270
Countesswells 2,150 850 0 3,000
Deeside 554 150 0 704
Loirston and Cove 1,100 400 0 1,500
Total 11,834 5,050 3,440 20,328
Structure Plan Allowances 12,000 5,000 4,000 21,000
Employment Land
(hectares)
2007-2023 2024-
2030
Total
Bridge of Don/Grandhome 5 27 32
Dyce/Bucksburn 36 18.5 54.5
Kingswells and Greenferns 61 61
Countesswells 10 10
Deeside 5 5
Loirston and Cove 13 20.5 33.5
Total 130 66.5 196
Structure Plan Allocations 105 70 175
Land release policy and Phasing
The greenfield allocations have been phased in line with the Structure Plan Housing
Allowances and policy is included in this section to allow development of phase 1
and protects future phases for development. The assessment of the land release
policy has been assessed within Appendix 8.h and the alternative phasing options,
which were presented in the Main Issues Report. The alternatives were:
1. Alternative 1 would be to identify only the preferred sites from the assessment
process, which would result in a smaller land take. The alternative would
require that sites are delivered quicker in a fewer number of locations.
2. Alternative 2 would make the same allocations as alternative 1, but would not
expect development of these sites to be completed within the plan period.
These alternatives have been assessed in Appendix 8.a.
Site specific allocations
Within the development areas specific sites have been identified for development to
provide the housing figures quoted in Table 3.2. All the greenfield development sites
have been through a process of environmental assessment and public consultation
during the Main Issues Report. The preferred sites are listed in Appendix 7.i and the
alternatives are listed in Appendix 8.f.
Delivering mixed use communities
15
The ALDP aims to deliver sustainable development, and to assist in meeting this aim
is requires a mix of housing and employment to be delivered on the larger
allocations. The alternative to this approach is to do nothing, and provide separate
allocations for housing and employment.
Other opportunities as in Appendix 1 of the ALDP
There is a list of opportunities contained in Appendix 1 of the ALDP for a range of
uses other than housing and employment. This list also contains those sites that
were released for development through the Aberdeen Local Plan 2008.
Delivering Development
To create balanced, accessible and sustainable communities it is important to deliver
the appropriate infrastructure to support development. The infrastructure
requirements for new development are based on 11 masterplan areas. The
masterplan for each individual area will set out the detailed requirements for
developments in the area and the contribution will be commensurate with the scale
of the development. The alternative to this approach would be to continue with the
status quo and to make the assessment of infrastructure required on an ad-hoc
basis.
3 Delivering Development (Land Use Policies)
The land use policies play a vital role in the assessment of planning applications and
seek to ensure that developments identified in the spatial strategy are developed in a
way that helps to achieve the vision and minimise negative environmental, social and
economic impacts. Below lists the policies in each section and highlights the
alternatives that were considered during the Main Issues Report. Policies from the
Aberdeen Local Plan 2008 that are consistent with national guidance and Structure
Plan have been carried forward in a similar format into the ALDP. In these cases no
alternatives have been identified. Most of the policies that have not had alternatives
identified do not have a spatial element and cover the whole of the plan area.
Table 3.3 Land Use Policies and Options
Policy Topic Reference
No.
Options Preference
I1 Infrastructure Delivery and
Developer Contributions
Yes1 Delivering
Infrastructure
Transport
and
Accessibility
The alternative to this approach
would be to continue with the
status quo and to make the
assessment of infrastructure
required on an ad-hoc basis.
No
T1 Land For Transport Yes
T2 Managing the Transport Impact
of Development
Yes
2 Transport
1.5 Incremental assessment of sites
on a case by case basis
No
D1 Architecture and Placemaking Yes
D2 Design and Amenity Yes
D3 Sustainable and Active Travel Yes
D4 Aberdeen’s Granite Heritage Yes
D5 Built Heritage Yes
3 Promoting
High Quality
Design
D6 Landscape Yes
16
5.8 Continue with the status quo
based on a piecemeal approach
in respect of design
No
5.9 Promoting a highly prescriptive
approach to design by using
design coding
No
BI1 Business and Industrial Land Yes
BI2 Specialist Employment Area Yes
BI3 West End Office Area Yes
BI4 Aberdeen Airport and Aberdeen
Harbour
Yes
4 Supporting
Business and
Industrial
Development
BI5 Pipelines and Major Accident
Hazards
Yes
H1 Residential Areas Yes
H2 Mixed Use Areas Yes
H3 Density Yes
4.5 Continue with the status quo on
density by not providing guidance
No
H4 Housing Mix Yes
H5 Affordable Housing Yes
H6 Gypsy and Traveller Caravan
Sites
Yes
H7 Gypsy and Traveller
Requirements for new Residential
Developments
Yes
Do nothing approach to Gypsy
and Traveller sites
5 Meeting
Housing and
Community
Needs
H8 Housing and Aberdeen Airport Yes
CF1 Existing community sites and
facilities
Yes6 Community
Facilities
CF2 New Community Facilities Yes
RT1 Sequential Approach and Retail
Impact Assessment
Yes
RT2 Out of Centre Proposals Yes
RT3 Town, District and
Neighbourhood Centres
Yes
RT4 Local Shops Yes
7 Supporting
Retail
Centres
RT5 Retail Development Serving New
Areas
Yes
NE1 Greenspace Network Yes
NE2 Greenbelt Yes
NE3 Urban Greenspace Yes
NE4 Open Space Provision in new
development
Yes
NE5 Trees and Woodlands Yes
NE6 Flooding and Drainage Yes
NE7 Coastal Planning Yes
NE8 Natural Heritage Yes
NE9 Access and Informal Recreation Yes
8 Protecting
and
enhancing
the Natural
Environment
NE10 Air Quality Yes
9 Resources R1 Minerals Yes
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R2 Degraded and Contaminated
Land
Yes
R3 New Waste Management
Facilities
Yes
R4 Sites for New Waste
Management Facilities
Yes
R5 Energy From Waste Yes
R6 Waste Management
Requirements for new
Development
Yes
6.3 Continue with the status quo with
increasing landfill use
No
R7 Low and Zero Carbon Buildings Yes
R8 Renewable and Low Carbon
Energy Developments
Yes
7.3 Continue with the limited councilwide
carbon management
programme
No
7.5 Encourage higher city-wide
standards in efficiency through
awards and accreditation
schemes
No
7.6 Delay the requirements for higher
building standards
No
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4 Plan, Programme or Strategy Context
4.1 Relationship with Other PPS and Environmental Objectives
The Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 requires that the Environmental
Report includes an outline of the PPS relationships with other relevant PPS and how
environmental protection objectives have been taken into account in the PPS
preparation. This section covers these issues and describes the policy context within
which the PPS operates, and the constraints and targets that this context imposes on
the PPS. Table 4.1 summarises how the Aberdeen Local Development Plan affects,
and is affected by, other relevant PPS and environmental protection objectives.
Appendix 8.m provides a more detailed analysis.
Table 4.1: Other Relevant PPS & Environmental Protective Objectives of the
LDP
Name of plan, programme, strategy or environmental protection objective
International Level
1 European Framework on sustainable development 2001
2 The Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC
3 The Wild Birds Directive 79/409/EEC
4 Water framework Directive 2000/60/EC
5 The Nitrates Directive 91/676/EEC
6 The Landfill Directive 99/31/EC
7 Proposed Soil Framework Directive
8 The National Emission Ceilings Directive 2001/81/EC (NECD)
9 The Waste Framework Directive 2006/12/EC
10 Council Directive 2005/0183/EC Ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe
11 Council Directive 2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment
12 European Landscape Convention (2000)
13 European Biodiversity Framework
14 European Framework on sustainable development 2001
15 The Sixth Environmental Action Programme of the European Community
1600/2002/EEC
16 Planning to halt the loss of biodiversity – Biodiversity conservation standards for
planning in the UK – Code of Practice (2006)
17 Sustainable Development and the Natural Heritage: The SNH Approach
18 Bathing Waters Directive (EC Directive 76/160/EEC).
19 1992 OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the
North East Atlantic
20 The EU Thematic Strategy on Air Pollution (2005)
21 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change 1992
22 Taking Sustainable Use of Resources Forward: A Thematic Strategy on the
prevention and recycling of waste (EU, 2005)
National Level
1 National Planning Framework for Scotland 2 (2009)
2 Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009
3 DTI (2007) Energy white paper: meeting the energy challenge
4 Choosing Our Future: Scotland’s Sustainable Development Strategy
5 Meeting the Needs, Priorities, Actions and Targets for Sustainable Development
in Scotland (2002)
6 Changing Our Ways: Scottish Climate Change Programme
7 Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland (2000)
19
Name of plan, programme, strategy or environmental protection objective
8 Scotland’s Transport Future: The Transport White Paper (2004)
9 Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)
10 The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004
11 UK Biodiversity Action Plan (1994)
12 Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2005
13 SEPA (2006) Indicative Flood Map
14 SEPA (2003) Groundwater Protection Policy for Scotland: Environmental Policy
15 The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended)
16 The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Amendment (Scotland) Regulations 2007
17 Scottish Executive (2001) A Policy Statement for Scotland Designing Places
18 Scottish Executive (2006) People and Place: Regeneration Policy Statement
19 Scotland’s Biodiversity: It’s in Your Hands. A strategy for the conservation and
enhancement of biodiversity in Scotland
20 Scottish Executive Marine & Coastal Strategy (2005)
21 The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997
22 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979
23 Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
24 National Waste Strategy
25 Scottish Executive (2007) Reaching Higher – Building on the Success of Sport 21
26 Scottish Planning Policy February 2010
27 Scottish Landscape Forum’ (2007) Scotland’s living landscapes
28 Scottish Historic Environment Policies
29 Managing Change in the Historic Environment Guidance Notes
30 Disability Discrimination Acts 1995 & 2005
31 Physical Activity Strategy
32 PAN 60: Planning for Natural Heritage
33 PAN 61 Planning & sustainable urban drainage
34 PAN 63 Waste Management Planning
35 PAN 65: Planning and Open Space
36 PAN 75 Transport and Planning
37 PAN 76 New Residential Streets.
38 PAN 77 Designing safer places
39 PAN 78 Inclusive Design
40 River Basin Management Plans
41 Scotland’s Bathing Waters: A Strategy for Improvement – Scottish Executive
Environment Group (2002)
42 Scottish Waters Strategic Asset Capacity and Development Plan
43 SEPA’s Policy 55 on “Provision of Waste Water Drainage in Settlements”
44 Thematic Strategy on the Protection and Conservation of the Marine Environment
(2002)
45 The Pollution Prevention and Control (Scotland) Regulations 2000
46 Building a Better Scotland Infrastructure Investment Plan: Investing in the Future
of Scotland, (2005)
47 Zero Waste Scotland, new policy and targets on waste management
48 SEPA Guidelines for Thermal Treatment of Municipal Waste
Regional level
1 North East Scotland Biodiversity Action Plan
2 Forest and Woodland Strategy for Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen
3 River Dee Catchment Management Plan
4 Regional Transport Strategy (RTS)
20
Name of plan, programme, strategy or environmental protection objective
5 North East Scotland Area Waste Plan (2003)
6 Economic Growth Strategy for North East Scotland
7 North East Scotland Together Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire Structure Plan 2001-
2016
8 North east Global Footprint Reduction Report
9 Aberdeen City and Shire Structure Plan 2009
10 Aberdeenshire Council Proposed Local Development Plan 2010
Local level
1 Aberdeen Future - Aberdeen City Community Plan
2 Aberdeen Local Plan 2008
3 Aberdeen City Joint Health Improvement Plan
4 Aberdeen City Local Housing Strategy 2008-2011
5 Aberdeen Contaminated Land Strategy
6 Aberdeen City Local Transport Strategy
7 Aberdeen City Council Air Quality Action Plan 2006
8 Aberdeen City Draft Nature Conservation Strategy
9 Aberdeen City Core Path Plans
10 Aberdeen’s Parks and Greenspace Strategy
11 Aberdeen City Outdoor Access Strategy
12 Aberdeen City State of the Environment Report
13 Aberdeen Landscape Character Assessment
From the analysis of the relevant plans, programmes and environmental protection
objectives, the key points arising from this analysis are that the Local Development
Plan should:
Avoid adverse impacts on both statutory and non-statutory protected sites for
natural heritage interests i.e. habitats, species, earth science interests and
landscape interests e.g.
Internationally important Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) designated
under the terms of the EC Habitats Directive 1992.
Nationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) notified
under the terms of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Regionally important wildlife and landscape sites i.e. Sites of Interests to
Natural Science (SINS).
Locally important wildlife sites i.e. Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and
District Wildlife Sites (DWSs)
Ensure compliance with statutory provisions for statutory protected species and
with regional biodiversity plans e.g.
EPS (e.g. otters and bats), Wildlife and Countryside Act schedule 1
species (e.g. peregrine falcon),
Wildlife and Countryside Act schedule 5 species (e.g. red squirrel and
water vole),
the Protection of Badgers Act, and with objectives of North East Scotland
Biodiversity Action Plan (e.g. aspen hover fly and wych elm)
Promote biodiversity, maintain and restore natural habitats and habitat networks.
Maintain and support landscape character and local distinctiveness.
Promote the provision of access links to adjacent access routes e.g. core path
network, or existing footpaths.
Promote sustainable use of water and mitigate the effects of floods and
droughts;
21
Support strategies that help to limit or reduce the emissions of greenhouse
gases;
Encourage increased use of renewable energy resources and more efficient use
energy and water
Support strategies that help to limit or reduce the emissions of pollutants;
Protect wildlife from disturbance, injury intentional destruction;
Promote good design, safe environment, clean environment and good quality
services;
Promote sustainable alternatives to car and reduce congestion traffic pollution
through walking, cycling and the location of sports facilities;
Promote economic growth, social Inclusion, environmental improvement, health
and safety;
Promote strategies that do not degrade the coastal environment;
Promote the economy, support the community and the public service;
Set the framework for development consents for major sport facilities
development;
Help to promote protect and, where appropriate, enhance the historic
environment;
Seek to promote watercourses as valuable landscape features and wildlife
habitats;
Ensure that the water quality and good ecological status of the water framework
directive are maintained.
4.2 Relevant Aspects of the Current State of the Environment
The Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 Schedule 3 requires that the
Environmental Report includes a description of the relevant aspects of the current
state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of
the PPS, and “the environmental characteristics of areas likely to be significantly
affected”. This section aims to describe the environmental context within which the
PPS operates and the constraints and targets that this context imposes on the PPS.
Appendix 7.n: Baseline data, targets and trends summarises the data collected and
its source. Maps are shown in section 9.
4.3 Likely Evolution of the Environment Without the LDP
Without this PPS it is envisaged that the likely future changes to the environmental
baseline are inevitable due to natural processes but also due to human interventions
that are unconnected with the strategy. A number of the PPS listed in Table 4.1
under “Regional” and “Local” including The Aberdeen Local Plan (2008), Aberdeen
City and Shire Structure Plan 2009, Local Transport Strategy, Local Housing
Strategy and the Core Paths Plan will involve physical development which will have
environmental consequences; both positive and adverse. It should be noted that the
existing environmental problems described in the previous section would persist in
the absence of the strategy being introduced. Potential changes to the environmental
baseline without the strategy discussed under the environmental issues are listed in
Table 4.2 below.
22
Table 4.2: Potential Environmental Changes Without the LDP
SEA Topic Possible Changes without the Local Development Plan
Biodiversity,
flora & fauna
The effects on biodiversity predicted due to the plan would not occur
and adverse effects on biodiversity caused by other activities would
remain. This includes the loss and fragmentation of habitats caused by
unplanned development promoted by the Structure Plan and current
Local Plan.
Landscape
Impacts on landscape character resulting from the plan may not occur
particularly if the implementation is limited to brownfield development.
There would be a greater risk of unplanned sporadic development
affecting landscape character. Those impacts associated with
proposals within other plans and human activities would remain.
Cultural
Heritage
The effects on the historic environment resulting from the plan may not
occur. Focussing development on brownfield areas alone could affect
the townscape. The absence of design policies could affect the quality
of the built environment. However, the effects associated with other
strategies and plans would remain.
Air Quality &
Climatic
Factors
A lack of development opportunities in the City could force development
further away and increase commuting, contributing to greenhouse
gases, air quality, air pollution and nuisance. The implementation of
other PPS will continue to affect air and climatic factors.
Water
Adverse effects on water quality would remain in the absence of the
strategy, although if there is less land release, there would be less
pressure for water abstraction. Construction associated with other plans
would still occur and agricultural run-off would continue to cause
pollution of water bodies.
Population &
Human
Health
Without development, the city’s population could decline, resulting in
falling demand on schools and other facilities.
Soil &
Material
Assets
Impacts on soil, caused by the development of the strategy may not
necessarily occur. Those impacts on soils and agricultural land
associated with proposals within other plans and human activities would
remain. Other PPS being implemented in the City, such as the
Aberdeen Housing Strategy are likely to affect material assets and the
soil
4.4 Characteristics of Areas Likely to be Significantly Affected
The analysis of the baseline information indicates that the strategy is likely to have
more significant effects on certain areas than others. This is due to the sensitivity of
those areas in terms of international, national and local designations. Although other
areas may not be designated the effects on those sites from the strategy could be
cumulative. Appendix 7.n: Baseline data, targets and trends contains a list of
designated sites which are likely to be significantly affected if development were to
take place on or in close proximity to them.
23
4.5 Environmental Problems
Environmental problems that affect the PPS were identified through discussions with
sustainability officers, analysis of baseline data relevant to Aberdeen City and
previous SEAs. Some of the problems relating to the City are taken up in the Core
Paths Plan and Aberdeen Local Housing Strategy. The main issues relevant to this
strategy are summarised below.
Table 4.3: Environmental Problems Relevant to the Local Development Plan
SEA topics
Environmental Problem
Implications for the Local
Development Plan
Biodiversity
(flora and
fauna)
Potential disturbance to protected species from
new development
Potential loss of green space to develop housing
and employment areas
Disturbance to species from new development
Potential loss of green linkages and wildlife
corridors
Pressure on the River Dee SAC
Pressure on SSSIs
Pressure on European Protected Species (bats,
badgers and otter)
Pressure on locally designated sites (local nature
conservation sites)
The Local Development Plan
should protect biodiversity through
minimising the impact on protected
and non protected designations.
Biodiversity losses will be offset by
enhancing the green space
network, habitat creation and
increasing woodland.
Air &
Climatic
factors
Temporary release of particulate matter in
constructing new development
Substantial energy consumption in new
developments
Lack of renewable energy use in new
developments
Continuing car dependence with high CO2
emissions
Increasing commuter traffic increasing carbon
footprint and negatively impacting on air quality.
The Local Development Plan
should encourage the use of
renewable energy sources and
energy efficiency measures in
buildings.
The implementation of the strategy
should minimise car dependence,
air pollution and nuisance.
Increased tree planting and creation
of woodland areas will attenuate the
air quality and sequester CO2.
Soil Impact of run-off from hard surfaces and new
development
Soil sealing and compaction arising from new
development
Substances used in construction, cleaning and
redevelopment could potentially contaminate the
soil
Increase in the amount of waste arising from new
development
The Local Development Plan
should ensure that SUDS are
delivered in new development.
The implementation of
developments should avoid soil
contamination. The waste hierarchy
should be promoted.
Designing developments that are of
high density will result in less land
take and will decrease the
environmental problems identified.
Water Potential pollution from new developments,
especially industrial areas
Impact on qualifying features in River Dee from
new development
Impact on water dependent SSSIs such as Corby,
Lily and Bishops Lochs and Scotstown Moor
Increased need to abstract water during the
construction of, and servicing new development
Flooding events are predicted to increase in
frequency and severity due to the effects of
climate change; consequently any future
development below 5m datum is liable to flooding.
The Local Development Plan
should minimise water pollution and
avoid disturbance to qualifying
features of the River Dee.
The implementation of the Local
Development Plan should avoid the
risk of flooding.
The implementation of the Local
Development Plan should improve
water quality and ensure
sustainable use of water.
24
Increased tree planting and creation
of wooded areas in the right
location will reduce flood risk.
Creation of wetlands and natural
flood plains will also have the same
desired effect.
Landscape New development reducing public open space
and green space in the City
New development harming the landscape setting
of the city
New developments harming landscape features
New development resulting in coalescence and
urban sprawl
The Local Development Plan must
ensure that playing fields and public
open spaces are protected
The Local Development Plan must
take into account landscape setting
when setting the allocations.
Population
and Human
Health
Development activities around certain parts of the
City, declared air quality management areas,
affecting people’s health.
Inadequate provision of open space and sporting
facilities;
Severance of links between residential areas and
recreational sites limiting healthy sporting
activities
Lack of family housing leading to a decline in the
number of younger people
Changing demographics – loss of population and
ageing population
Lack of affordable housing
The Local Development Plan must
recognise air quality management
areas.
The Local Development Plan
should provide adequate sport
facilities, open spaces, affordable
housing and family housing.
The Local Development Plan
should take into account the needs
of all sectors of society.
Cultural
Heritage
New development can potentially impact on
historical features.
Development activities can damage historical
features
The Local Development Plan
should protect and where
appropriate enhance the historical
environment. It should manage the
conflict between modern
requirements and historic buildings.
Material
Asset
Lack of adequate housing land, employment land
and community facilities to meet the needs of
people in Aberdeen City
The Local Development Plan
should promote the development
requirements of the structure plan
25
5 Strategic Environmental Assessment
5.1 Alternatives/Options
As part of the consultation and background work on the ALDP, we considered
alternatives to include strategic, policy and site-specific alternatives. In this report we
have considered:
3 phasing alternatives
Proposed policies and their alternatives
Existing policy options as an alternative to the main policy issues
Strategic options within the growth areas
All the 126 sites as alternatives within the strategic options, including
masterplans and Supplementary Guidance
All these options and alternatives have been assessed against SEA topics to
determine their suitability for the Aberdeen Local Development Plan. Where a
strategic option scores badly against SEA topics, these have been rejected.
5.2 Scoping In/Out of SEA Issues
In accordance with Schedule 2 of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act
2005 Aberdeen City Council scoped in all the environmental issues as the ALDP is
likely to have significant effect on them.
5.3 Assessment of Environmental Effects and Mitigation Measures
We have assessed the strategic, policy and site-specific options developed under
the LDP against SEA topics. We have predicted whether these effects are negative,
positive, uncertain, mixed or neutral. We have further evaluated the effects to
determine their significance on the receptors in relation to reversibility or irreversibility
of effects, risks, duration (permanent, temporary, long-term, short-term and mediumterm)
and cumulative (direct, indirect, secondary and synergistic).
Within the spatial strategy there have been brownfield and greenfield allocations
made as per the format discussed in section 3 of this report. The following sections
explain the assessment process for the land allocations and how this has informed
decision making for the ALDP.
Brownfield Assessment
The principle of brownfield development is supported by the ALDP, and the strategy
of the ALDP is to continue to deliver brownfield developments. Therefore, a large
number of brownfield sites have been identified in the ALDP and a summary of the
assessments of these sites is contained in Appendix 7.h. Through the assessment
process those sites which have been identified has having a more significant impact
on particular indicators have not been taken forward into the ALDP. Brownfield
development is a more sustainable option than Greenfield development and the
Structure Plan spatial strategy requires significant amount of development on
brownfield land. There are limited opportunities for brownfield development in
Aberdeen and following the SEA all sites are viewed as suitable to accommodate
development, and would contribute towards sustainable development. No sites have
been rejected and no alternatives have been identified.
Greenfield Assessment
The assessments of the preferred greenfield sites, which have been selected as a
result of the environmental assessment and public consultation on the Main Issues
Report, are summarised in Appendix 7.i. These sites fit with the spatial strategy in
26
the Structure Plan and minimise the overall impact on the environment. The
assessments of the alternative sites, which have been rejected as a as a result of
this assessment and the consultation on the Main Issues Report are summarised in
Appendix 7.k. The rejected greenfield sites have similar impacts on the environment,
but there are key issues with development of these sites related to the environmental
indicators. These sites have a more significant negative impact on or more of the
following: valuable habitats, significant impact on cultural heritage, unacceptable
landscape impacts, sites at risk from flooding, and developments in less sustainable
locations that will increase commuting and have more profound impacts on air quality
and climatic factors these sites have been identified has having a more significant
adverse environmental impact. For each site the main reason differs, but has been
detailed in Appendix 7.k.
Masterplan Sites Assessment
The ALDP seeks masterplans to be produced for a number of the larger
development areas. Masterplanning will improve the quality of development and will
form part of the mitigation measures for development. The assessment for the
masterplanning areas are contained in Appendix 7.l.
Land Use Policy Assessment
The ALDP contains the policies against which all planning applications will be
assessed. Some of the policies promote development and some ensure that
development takes place in the right way and does not have a negative impact on
the environment. As a part of the Local Development Plan a suite of supplementary
guidance has been prepared to support the policies in the ALDP. Both the policies
and the supplementary guidance have been assessed against environmental
indicators to assess their inclusion against alternatives, and the option chosen has
the most benefit to or minimal impact on environmental indicators. The SEA process
has also been used to refine these policies and supplementary guidance to minimise
negative impact on the environment and maximise the positive benefits. The
summaries of the assessments of policies and supplementary guidance are
contained in Appendix 8.h.
During the process of producing the Main Issues Report policy options and
alternatives were produced. Through the responses received on the Main Issues
Report and the assessments of the policies a decision was made on the preferred
approach for the ALDP. Appendix 7.c and Appendix 7.d contain an assessment of
the alternatives and the original Aberdeen Local Plan Policies, which were also
treated as alternatives.
27
Cumulative Effect Assessment
Appendix 7.f provides a cumulative assessment of the three phasing options for the
developments and the alternative sites and assesses this in combination with the
policies in the plan. This includes a comparison of the preferred spatial strategy
against the alternative options. The 4 options are:
Preferred Option is that contained in the ALDP and includes all the sites
assessed in Appendix 7.i.
Alternative 1 would identify only the preferred sites from the site assessment
process and would exclude sites OP58, OP27 and the additional 50 units from
site OP51 from Appendix 7.i. This would result in a smaller land take, but
would require that sites are delivered quicker in a fewer number of locations.
Alternative 2 would make the same allocations as alternative 1, but would not
expect development to take place as quickly.
Alternative 3 is the cumulative assessment of the alternative sites contained in
Appendix 7.k. The cumulative assessment of the policies has been drawn
from the assessment of the ALDP policies contained in Appendix 8.h.
Overall alternative 3 has a more significant negative impact on indicators as the sites
that would be included are those that have been identified as having a greater
environmental impact. This is the reason that these sites were rejected. Even with
policy interventions the impacts on these sites are unlikely to be acceptable.
The preferred option and alternatives 1 and 2 include the same sites and the
cumulative impact will be the same. The preferred option, while there are policies to
protect the environment, will have negative affects on the environment. In particular
the key points of the cumulative assessment are:
Impacts on short-term air quality;
Long term irreversible impacts on biodiversity as a result of significant
Greenfield development;
Mixed impact on climate as development will increase use of resources, but
new developments will be more efficient;
New development will impact negatively on water quality and will increase
water abstraction;
Negative impacts on landscape as a result of significant greenfield
development;
Mixed impacts on cultural heritage as a result of development and the policies
to protect the historic and cultural environment contained in the plan;
Development will result in long term positive affects on population, human
health and material assets.
5.4 Proposed SEA Mitigation Measures
The SEA Directive requires that through mitigation measures, recommendations will
be made to prevent, reduce or compensate for the negative affects of implementing
the strategy. Overall the SEA has helped to guide our preference for development
options and alternatives, and it has helped us to reword the Main Issues Report and
clarify the main policy issues. The proposed framework to be adopted to mitigate
significant environmental effects is contained in Table 5.1. There are a number of
sites contained in the assessment at Appendix 7.i that require masterplans to be
produced. The assessment of these sites and the policies, which have been
assessed in Appendix 7.l, in this SEA means that there will not be a requirement to
duplicate work and undertake further SEA for each individual masterplan. However,
Environmental Impact Assessment and Habitats Regulation Assessment may still be
28
required at the appropriate point in the process. Where we have identified mitigation
measures these have been included in the ALDP where appropriate, and the ALDP
will need to take account of these mitigations measures during the implementation of
the Plan.
29
Table 5.1: Summary of Effects and Proposed Mitigation MeasuresIssu
Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
Air
If the development of new homes
causes more use of the motorcar, then
congestion on the roads will be
exacerbated and air quality standards
will be compromised in some areas.
Specifically within Air Quality
Management Areas.
During the implementation phases of the
LDP, housing construction is likely to
have short-term negative impacts on air
quality.
Cumulatively and individually
developments are likely to have short
term negative impacts on air quality
from local dust nuisance given that
PM10 measured in various parts of the
city exceed 2010 Scottish annual mean
objective.
Policy of Air Quality in NE10 and supplementary guidance will be strictly
applied.
All the allocations that have a negative affect on air quality will be
required to comply with policy NE10 and supplementary guidance.
All of those sites that have been identified as having the most significant
impact have been removed from the plan and are contained only as
alternatives.
The LDP team will work with officers implementing local and regional
strategies to encourage the integration of developments into the existing
road network and to support the education strategy on modal shift.
Through the Air quality action plan 2008 and the actions within the Local
Transport Strategy.
Increased tree planting, street trees and wooded areas will go some way
to offset poor air quality.
Through the
development
management
process.
When
developing
masterplans,
local housing
strategy, local
transport
strategy.
Development
management
team.
LDP team,
Transportation,
NESTRANS
30
Issu Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
Water
Development will have a negative
impact on water quality and will increase
water abstraction from the River Dee.
Policies in the plan will protect water
quality and the River Dee, but the plan is
likely to have significant impacts on
water.
Development in close proximity to the
River Dee SAC is likely to have short
term reversible negative impacts on
water quality as a result of pollution.
Negative impacts on water quality where
development is taking place in close
proximity to water bodies. Especially
during construction phases.
Within the assessments particular sites
have been identified as having or being
close to land at risk from flooding.
Impact on water quality if new
development connects to water and
waste water infrastructure that is at or
near capacity.
Policies NE6 Flooding and Drainage, SG on SUDS, SG on Drainage
Impact Assessment and SG on Buffer Strips will provide mitigation for
the effects of development. All allocations that have been identified as
having a significant impact on water quality will be required to comply
with these policies.
All sites substantially at risk from flooding have been removed from the
plan and are included only as alternatives. There are exceptions to this,
but these are included on the basis that development on these areas
does not take place on the land at risk from flooding.
Where the assessment has identified a significant flood risk these areas
of sites have been identified as greenspace network. In addition
Supplementary Guidance on Buffer Strips for wader bodies has been
prepared to provide protection to all areas that have or are close to water
courses. Also for sites with an identified flood risk this has been
identified in Appendix 2 of the Local Development Plan.
Policy I1 details the infrastructure requirements for new developments,
and where development cannot be accommodated in existing
infrastructure there is a requirement to upgrade or provide new facilities.
In view of the potential significant negative impacts during
implementation, EIA will be submitted before developments commence,
and where appropriate, Habitats Regulation Assessment of sites that
may impact on the River Dee SAC will be undertaken.
We will increase the resilience to future increases in precipitation flood
risk and flooding by: avoiding development on areas at flood risk, use of
SUDS, ensuring new infrastructure is not at risk of flooding and use of
permeable surfaces.
A Habitats Regulation Assessment has been undertaken to ensure that
the risk to the conservation status of the River Dee SAC has been
minimised, and policies are included in the plan to ensure that
development does not affect the River Dee’s status. A Habitats
Regulation Assessment will be required for developments in close
proximity to the River Dee.
Increased green infrastructure, provision of natural flood plains, wetlands
and trees will increase rainfall intervention and slow the rate of runoff.
Through the
development
management
and EIA
process.
During the
Habitats
Regulation
Assessment
LDP Team,
Development
Management,
developers
31
Issu Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
Soil
The implementation of the LDP is likely
to have negative affects on soil through
soil erosion, desegregation, compaction
and contamination of greenfield sites.
There would be positive impacts where
development carries out remediation of
contaminated land.
Short term impacts on soil quality during
construction of development sites,
specifically Greenfield developments.
This will have long term irreversible
impacts.
Brownfield development has the
potential to have positive impacts on soil
quality where there is the requirement
for remediation of contaminated land.
Increase waste and landfill.
Development on land at risk from
flooding or coastal erosion.
In order to reduce waste to landfill policy R5 and R6 provides a spatial
framework for new waste facilities such as: recycling, composting and
thermal treatment.
Areas of land that are at risk from coastal erosion and flooding have not
been included in the Plan and are only alternative, apart from the
exceptions noted in the Water quality above.
Policy provides protection to native woodland to increase resilience to
erosion and landslides.
Developments are encouraged to make use of construction waste to
reduce landfill.
In view of the potential significant negative impacts during
implementation, EIA will be submitted before developments commence
where appropriate.
Ensure that development undertakes remediation when required. Policy
R2 Degraded and Contaminated Land will ensure that this is undertaken.
Increased housing density will decrease land take and thus decrease the
amount of soil sealing.
Through the
development
management
and EIA
process.
LDP Team,
Development
Management,
developers
Environmental
Health
32
Issu Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
Biodiversity,floraandfauna
Most of the developments may take
place on greenfield sites. This will have
long-term negative impacts on habitat
loss (green space, open space,
greenbelt and the countryside around
the City), habitat fragmentation and
vegetation removal.
In areas where there are designated
sites there may be significant impacts
on biodiversity, flora and fauna.
Within the River Dee SAC catchment
there development has the potential to
impact on biodiversity.
Development in close proximity to water
bodies is likely to have long-term
irreversible negative affects on
biodiversity.
Developments in close proximity to
natural heritage designations and trees
and woodlands have the potential to
cause long term negative affects on
biodiversity as a result of the loss of
habitats.
Policies included in the ALDP that have
the potential to enhance natural heritage
within new development areas through
habitat creation.
All of the Natural Environment and Open Space policies provide
protection to biodiversity and developments that may have significant
impacts on biodiversity are required to strictly comply with these policies.
Where policies that support development have a negative affect on
biodiversity the will be overridden by the natural environment and open
space policies.
Those proposals with significant impacts on biodiversity have been
removed from the plan and are only alternatives.
Where the assessment has identified a natural heritage designation
these areas of sites have been identified as greenspace network to
provide protection.
In view of the potential significant impacts on biodiversity, developers will
be required to undertake EIA prior to commencing some developments.
EIA would address issues such as creation of wildlife corridors, habitat
management and greenspace network. Where greenfield land is
allocated, consideration will be given to improving housing densities. An
“appropriate assessment” will be carried out where development projects
are likely to cause a significant impact on the River Dee SAC and its
qualifying species. Masterplans can also address this issue.
A Habitats Regulation Assessment has been undertaken to ensure that
the risk to the conservation status of the River Dee SAC has been
minimised, and policies are included in the plan to ensure that
development does not affect the River Dee’s status. A Habitats
Regulation Assessment will be required for developments in close
proximity to the River Dee.
New development should compensate for any biodiversity loss and
advocating high quality green infrastructure within masterplanning and
working with the grain of nature should also ensure that biodiversity is
considered and incorporated in developments.
Developments inclose proximity to designated sites should have an
appropriate buffer zone to ensure that they do not abut these important
wildlife habitats.
Through the
development
management
and EIA
process.
Masterplanning.
Habitats
Regulation
Assessment
LDP Team,
Development
Management,
developers
33
Issu Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
Climaticfactors
Increased carbon footprint as a result of
an increase in the use of resources from
future development.
New developments will have negative
affects on the climate as they will
increase the demand for energy and to
travel. In particular increase in the use
of the motor car.
New developments will be required to be
more efficient that current buildings and
there will be an increased requirement
for renewable energy.
The scale of allocations means there is
increase potential for decentralised
energy and power, which would add to
CO2 reductions.
New developments close to areas at risk
from flooding will exacerbate impacts of
climate change. Specific negative
affects have been identified where sites
have water bodies on or in close
proximity to.
The delivery of local services facilities
and a mix of housing and employment
reduce the need to travel by car and
have a positive affect on climate.
Protecting trees and woodlands through
policy will prevent soil disturbance and
reduce the likelihood of flooding.
The Transport policies in the plan promote development that reduces the
need to travel. Also LR2 seeks to deliver mixed use communities and
reduce the need to travel.
Policy T2 requires development to make provision for transport using the
modal hierarchy with the motor car at the bottom. Policy T2 and SG on
Transport accessibility seek to make changes in how people choose to
travel.
The plan supports the use of brownfield land for development as it is in a
sustainable location.
All sites substantially at risk from flooding have been removed from the
plan and are included only as alternatives. There are exceptions to this,
but these are included on the basis that development on these areas
does not take place on the land at risk from flooding.
Through the strategy the plan is aiming to make the most efficient use of
infrastructure to reduce the need for additional facilities and associated
emissions.
Policy R7 and supplementary guidance promotes energy efficiency in
new developments and the use of passive measures to reduce energy
requirements.
Policy H3 promotes higher densities, reducing land take.
NE5 and supplementary guidance on trees protects trees and promotes
tree planting.
Policy R8 supports renewable developments in appropriate locations.
Policy R7 requires micro generation. Through this policy and
supplementary guidance the use of decentralised energy and heat is
also promoted.
The LDP team will work to achieve developments that are more efficient
and make use of renewable technologies. The LDP team will work with
officers implementing local and regional strategies to encourage the
integration of developments into the existing road network and to
support the education strategy on modal shift.
Where the assessment has identified a significant flood risk these areas
of sites have been identified as greenspace network. In addition
Supplementary Guidance on Buffer Strips for wader bodies has been
prepared to provide protection to all areas that have or are close to water
courses.
When
developing
masterplans,
local housing
strategy.
LDP Team,
Development
Management,
Building
Standards,
Transportation
and NESTRANS
34
Issu Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
CulturalHeritage
Implementation of the LDP may have
direct impacts on the historic
environment including loss and or
damage to historic buildings and
remains, and affect the setting or the
context. Features include: ancient
monuments, archaeological sites and
landscapes, historic buildings,
townscapes, parks, gardens and
designed landscapes, as well as marine
heritage. Through the use of design
policies and policies to enhance the
historic environment there could be
positive affects.
Significant amounts of Greenfield
development around Aberdeen,
especially in prominent areas will affect
existing views and impact negatively on
cultural heritage.
Development within or close to
Conservation areas and redevelopment
of listed buildings may have long term
negative impacts on cultural heritage.
Policies D1 Architecture and Placemaking, D4 Aberdeen’s Granite
Heritage, D5 Built heritage, D6 Landscape and Supplementary guidance
providing more detailed policy advice will be applied strictly to ensure
that development does not have a significant effect on cultural heritage.
Those sites that were expected to have the most significant impacts
have not been included in the plan and are only identified as alternatives.
In view of the potential significant negative impacts during
implementation, EIA will be submitted before development commences
where appropriate.
Design policies to ensure that new developments enhance the historic
environment.
Masterplanning to ensure that where there is a potential impact on the
cultural heritage this is minimised and where possible enhanced.
Through the
development
management
and EIA
process.
Masterplanning.
LDP Team,
Development
Management,
developers
35
Issu Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
Landscape
Development of the scale proposed is
likely to have significant impact on the
setting of Aberdeen and some areas will
be visually prominent. The removal of
existing trees has the potential to impact
significantly on the surrounding
landscape.
Visually prominent areas of sites if not
carefully designed my have significant
negative impacts on the surrounding
landscape.
Positive affects are likely through
enhancement where the quality of the
landscape and view are poor; where
urban edges are hard and abrupt; or
where the landscape is scrubby and
visually exposed.
Policies D7 Landscape, Landscape Strategy Supplementary Guidance
will be applied strictly to ensure that development does not have a
significant effect on cultural heritage.
Those sites that were expected to have the most significant impacts
have not been included in the plan and are only identified as alternatives.
Where the assessment has identified an area of a site which is more
visually prominent on the landscape, these areas will need to be
developed sensitively and in some cases greenspace network has been
used to ensure development does not take place in these areas.
In view of the potential likely significant negative impacts arising from the
implementation of the LDP EIA will be submitted before developments
commence. Landscape and visual assessments can be required.
Through the
development
management
and EIA
process.
Landscape
assessments
and
Masterplanning
of sites.
LDP Team,
Development
Management,
developers
MaterialAssets
This option will provide large amounts of
employment land to support expanding
businesses and attract new businesses
into Aberdeen.
This option will also provide a range of
house types and sizes including
affordable housing. There will be a wider
range of housing and employment sites
resulting from this option.
Enhancement and access to the
environment.
Policies LR2 Mixed use communities, H4 Housing Mix, H5 Affordable
Housing I1 Infrastructure Delivery have been included to ensure that the
positive affect of development is enhanced.
Policies NE1 Greenspace Network, NE9 Access and Informal
Recreation and NE4 Open Space Provision in New Developments will
enhance access to and enjoyment of the environment.
In view of the potential significant positive impacts that developments
have on material asset, collaboration will be made with stakeholder
including landowners, developers, and housing associations to support
the scheme.
Through
masterplanning
of sites to
incorporate
assets in new
developments.
Provide support
for sites that
have the
potential to
create
employment.
LDP Team,
Development
Management,
ACSEF
Population
Development of the preferred option will
support an increase in the population of
Aberdeen and provide a range of house
types and sizes to meet everyone’s
needs. The plan is likely to have long
term positive impacts on population.
In view of the potential significant positive impacts that developments
have on population, collaboration will be made with stakeholder including
landowners, developers, and housing associations to support the
scheme. Also an appropriate mix of housing in line with the local housing
strategy should be promoted.
Policy H4 requires a mix of housing types and sizes to be provided,
which will meet the needs of future population.
Use
masterplanning
of sites to
achieve an
appropriate mix
of house types
and tenures
LDP Team,
Masterplanning,
and Housing
36
Issu Effects Mitigation Measures When should
mitigation be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
mitigation?
HumanHealth
Development which results in the loss of
formal or informal recreation areas or
paths may impact negatively on human
health
Development may impact negatively on
air quality, which may affect human
health
New developments which conform to
new building standards can enhance
good health for occupiers. New homes
are more generally energy efficient,
incorporate good landscaping, and are
located near the countryside or on
greenfield land. They therefore provide
the opportunity for people to have
access to the open spaces and
recreational facilities and to appreciate
the natural environment.
If those with no access to housing gain
access to housing, the strategy will
engender long-term positive affects in
bringing social justice and health if they
are in safe environments.
Policy of Air Quality in NE10 and supplementary guidance will be strictly
applied.
All the allocations that have a negative affect on air quality will be
required to comply with policy AQ1 and supplementary guidance.
Policy NE3 Urban Greenspace provides protection to existing areas of
greenspace in the City and will ensure that there is no negative impact
on human health as a result of the plan.
In view of the potential significant positive impacts that developments
have on population and human health collaboration will be made with
stakeholder including landowners, developers, housing associations to
ensure that developments are properly serviced.
Encourage
increased
energy efficiency
through policy.
Encourage the
use of combined
heat and power
plants through
master planning.
Make use of
open space
strategy in
identifying the
types of open
space required.
LDP team,
Development
Management,
Economic and
Environmental
Sustainability,
37
5.5 Monitoring
Aberdeen City Council is required to monitor the significant environmental effects when the plan is implemented. A monitoring
report will be prepared to constantly monitor the significant effects. The framework for monitoring significant effect of the
implementation of the plan is shown in the Table 5.2 below. The monitoring data will be incorporated into the ALDP.
Table 5.2: Monitoring Plan
Effects
What sort of
information is
required?
(Indicators)
Where will
information be
obtained from?
Are there gaps
in the existing
information
and how can it
be resolved?
When should the
remedial action be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
undertaking
the
monitoring?
How should
the results
be
presented?
What remedial
actions could be
taken?
Air
nitrogen dioxide
emissions
Air quality (PM10)
Aberdeen City Council
Local Air Quality
Management:
Progress Reports
When new Air Quality
Management Areas are
declared.
Planning Applications
Review of supplementary
guidance on Air Quality
Environmental
Health
As part of the
Air Quality
Action Plan
or
As and when
is necessary
Review
Supplementary
Guidance on Air
Quality
Water
Impact on water
quality of River Dee
SAC
Impact of
development on
Flooding
Impact of
development on
water pollution
Dee catchment
management plan
SEPA flood monitoring
and local authority
flood monitoring data
SNH on the impact on
the qualifying interests
of the River Dee SAC.
When data from SEPA
and SNH indicate
potential pollution in the
Dee.
When data indicates that
there has been an
increase in flood incidents
action should be taken.
SEPA, SNH and
Aberdeen City
Council
As and when
flood risk and
pollution
increases
Review the action
programme of the
local development
plan
Review
supplementary
guidance on
flooding and
drainage
38
Effects
What sort of
information is
required?
(Indicators)
Where will
information be
obtained from?
Are there gaps
in the existing
information
and how can it
be resolved?
When should the
remedial action be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
undertaking
the
monitoring?
How should
the results
be
presented?
What remedial
actions could be
taken?
Soil
contaminated land
Meeting landfill
allowance targets
Soil erosion
Contaminated land
strategy
Aberdeen City Council
Waste Strategy
Flood monitoring data
from SEPA.
If the number of
contaminated sites/land
increases
If the level of
biodegradable Municipal
waste sent to landfill
increases
When flood events
increase
Contaminated
Land Unit,
SEPA
As and when Prepare or revise
supplementary
guidance
Biodiversity
Impact on the
qualifying features
of the River Dee
SAC
Habitat
fragmentation
Dee catchment
management plan
Open Space Strategy
and Greenspace
Network reviews
When departures against
Natural Environment and
Open Space policies are
approved
When open space audit
indicates a negative
impact on habitats
LDP Team,
SNH
Annually Review of
supplementary
guidance on open
space and
greenspace
network
Review of land
allocations
39
Effects
What sort of
information is
required?
(Indicators)
Where will
information be
obtained from?
Are there gaps
in the existing
information
and how can it
be resolved?
When should the
remedial action be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
undertaking
the
monitoring?
How should
the results
be
presented?
What remedial
actions could be
taken?
Climaticfactors
Increase in carbon
footprint
Increase in car use
and energy
consumption in new
developments
Carbon footprint
North east Scotland
Global Reduction
Footprint Report
Carbon management
plan monitoring report
Monitoring of new
development
emissions
Local Transport
Strategy
Monitoring of modal
shift in transport
modes
When planning
applications are being
approved contrary to
Policies
When transport
monitoring shows
increases in congestion
and a modal shift is not
occurring, i.e. use of the
car is increasing.
LDP Team,
Building
Standards and
Development
Management,
Transportation
Annually Review of
supplementary
guidance and if
mixed use
developments are
achieving desired
outcomes
HumanHealth
Reduced access to
open spaces
Number of people
suffering from air
borne diseases as
a result of NO2 and
PM10, e.g. asthma.
Open space strategy
NHS Grampian
When there is a
substantial increase or
high incidence of people
suffering from air borne
diseases.
If open space audit
indicates negative impacts
on access to open space
LDP Team,
NHS
Annually Review land
allocations and
supplementary
guidance on
greenspace
networks and open
space.
For air quality
actions as per
effects on Air
Population
Increase in the
range of house
types and tenures
Housing land audit When the plan is
reviewed
LDP Team Annually Review Policies
and allocations in
ALDP and
supplementary
guidance
40
Effects
What sort of
information is
required?
(Indicators)
Where will
information be
obtained from?
Are there gaps
in the existing
information
and how can it
be resolved?
When should the
remedial action be
considered?
Who is
responsible for
undertaking
the
monitoring?
How should
the results
be
presented?
What remedial
actions could be
taken?
Increase in the
number of care
homes built
Monitoring of planning
applications
When the plan is
reviewed
LDP Team Annually Review Policies
and allocations in
ALDP
CulturalHeritage
Impact on
Archaeological
remains on
Greenfield sites
Reduced numbers
of historic buildings
registered as ‘at
risk’
Archaeology – number
of excavations and
remains found on sites
Scottish Civic Trust
Buildings at risk
register for Scotland
When there is an increase
in Archaeological remains
being discovered
When the number of
buildings on the ‘at risk’
register remains static or
increases
Scottish Civic
Trust and LDP
Team,
Archaeology and
developers
Annually Review of prepare
supplementary
guidance and
revise land
allocations
Landscape
Impact of
development on
visually prominent
areas
Development
adversely affecting
the landscape and
townscape setting.
Landscape appraisal
Public complaints
When landscape
appraisal indicates a
negative impact on
landscape and townscape
setting.
When there is a large
amount of opposition to
development
Development
Management
and developers
Annually Review land
allocations and/or
prepare
supplementary
guidance
41
6 Next Steps
6.1 Consultation to Date
Aberdeen City Council in preparing a Local Development Plan carried out early and
effective consultation on the Local Development Plan and the accompanying
environmental report. Table 6.1 below identifies the stages in the preparation of the
Environmental Report and the consultation undertaken. In preparing the Local
Development Plan two environmental reports have been published and consulted on
along with the associated plan. This process of assessment and consultation has
assisted in giving fuller consideration of the environmental effects of policies and
proposals and amendments have been made to reduce the impact or make a
positive impact on the environment.
Table 6.1: Proposed Consultation Timescale and Methods
Expected time frame Milestone Comments
8 weeks Consulting on the Interim Environmental
Report alongside Main Issues Report
Complete
3 weeks Collating views on the Consultation and
take the appropriate action on the
Environmental Report and the plan as the
result of the consultations
Complete
4 weeks Finalise the environmental report Complete
12 weeks Consulting on the Environmental Report
and the ALDP Proposed Plan
Complete
3 weeks Collating views on the Consultation Complete
3 weeks Take the appropriate action on the
environmental report and the plan as the
result of the consultations
Complete
2 weeks Finalise the environmental report Complete
2 weeks Take post-adoption measures To be completed following
adoption of the Aberdeen
Local Development Plan.
6.2 Post-adoption
Section 18(2) of the 2005 Act requires a post-adoption SEA statement to be
prepared following adoption of the plan. This will set out how the findings in this
Environmental Report and the associated consultation responses were taken into
account during the preparation of the plan, before the final decision was taken to
adopt it. Following the adoption of the plan and through the post-adoption
procedures we will take the opportunity consult informally with the consultation
authorities on the arrangements for monitoring the identified significant
environmental effects in order to allow for remedial action to be taken where
required. Following this consultation on the monitoring arrangements a monitoring
plan will be finalised and will be used to monitor the effects of the Local Development
Plan.
43
6.3 Summary and Analysis of Comments
Table 6.2: Analysis of Comments
Organisation Issue Concern/ Comments How addressed in SEA
Process
SEA Report
page
Comments from Interim Environmental Report
Historic Scotland
(HS)
Monitoring The buildings at risk register is administered by the Scottish Civic
Trust not Historic Scotland
Changed Table 5.1:
Summary of
Effects and
Proposed
Mitigation
Measures
HS Mitigation Where negative affects are identified, steps should be taken to
mitigate these effects where possible.
Mitigation measures have been
included in the Proposed LDP
where possible and other
measures have been identified.
Table 5.1
HS Links to other
PPS
NPPG18 Planning and the Historic Environment has now been
superseded by SPP23.
All national Guidance now
consolidated into SPP.
Table 4.1
HS Links to other
PPS
For Information, the Memorandum of Guidance on Listed
Buildings and Conservation Areas (the Memorandum) has now
been withdrawn.
This reference has been
removed.
Appendix 7.m
Scottish Natural
Heritage (SNH)
Monitoring We welcome the Aberdeen Council’s commitment to this plan and
would be happy to support its development and delivery where we
can.
Noted No change.
Scottish
Environment
Protection
Agency (SEPA)
General Interpretation of assessments could be improved More detail has been provided in
the summary of the
assessments contained in this
report.
Appendix 7.h
Appendix 7.i
Appendix 7.k
SEPA General Clearly outline proposed mitigation Mitigation measures have been
included in the Proposed LDP
where possible and other
measures have been identified.
Table 5.1
SEPA Non technical
Summary
SUDS treats surface water rather than wastewater. Changed. Non-Technical
Summary
SEPA Relevant aspects
of the current
state of the
environment
There is a lack of information on flooding in either the water or
climatic factors tables.
More information has been
added.
Appendix 7.n
SEPA Relevant aspects
of the current
Include information on the designated air quality management
areas in the baseline data appendices.
Information has been included Appendix 7.n
44
state of the
environment
SEPA Environmental
Problems
Air and Climatic factors should be identified as a specific issue for
the City. This should contain reference to increased commuter
traffic.
This issue has now been
identified in the problems and is
taken into account in the
proposed mitigation
Table 4.3
Table 5.1
SEPA Environmental
Problems
Welcome expanding data on air quality to include reference to
areas where the atmospheric pollution is close to exceeding the air
quality objectives.
Available data has been
included in baseline information
Appendix 7.n
SEPA Assessments Provide a summary in the main body of the report to explain the
assessment of each of the alternatives.
Summary of the options and
alternatives is contained in the
summary of the content of the
plan and the assessment of
these options is contained in the
assessment section.
3. Description of
Local
Development
Plan Content
5.1Alternatives/
Options
SEPA Assessment of
Strategic Options
Negative affects on air and water have been identified and there is
a requirement for mitigation.
Mitigation measures are
proposed for the identified
impacts on air and water.
Table 5.1
SEPA Assessment of
main issues
Infrastructure and Developer Contributions: Clear supplementary
guidance could also help to ensure that suitable drainage and
waste management infrastructure is in place to facilitate
development
SG on Waste has been
prepared to deal with this issue.
SEPA Assessment of
main issues
It would seem that all waste proposals have been assessed as
likely to have significant negative affects against human health,
when this is not the case.
The assessment of policies R3,
R4, and R5 now indicate a
neutral impact on human health.
SEPA Assessment of
existing policies
It would have been helpful if some clarification had been provided
as to which of these policies were considered were considered as
main issues and are proposed to change as part of the review
process.
A full assessment of all policies
in the ALDP has now been
undertaken for this
Environmental Report.
SEPA Assessment of
existing policies
Provide information as to which policies are to be changed in a
minor way. And assess the changes that demonstrate whether the
changes have significant effects.
A full assessment of all policies
in the ALDP has now been
undertaken for this
Environmental Report.
SEPA Assessment of
existing policies
We note that existing policy 21 has significant negative affects
against the soil receptor, and policies 37 and 38 against the water
receptor. We would suggest that this highlights the need to these
policies to be amended to remove any significantly negative
affects, or mitigation for the effects to be clearly established.
The negative affects identified
have been mitigated.
Table 5.1
SEPA Assessment of
growth options
Assessment for Area D has become confused with D1 labelled as
the alternative option and no preferred option provided.
There are no preferred options
in area D and development in
No change.
45
and alternatives this area would only be an
alternative to development
elsewhere.
SEPA Assessment of
sites in the growth
areas
There is a lack of justification for the assessments given and this
is an area we would hope you would improve upon in future work.
More detail has been included in
the summaries of the site
assessments
Appendix 7.h
Appendix 7.i
Appendix 7.k
SEPA Assessment of
sites in the growth
areas
It was not possible to locate a number of the sites identified for
masterplanning (for example, Northfield, Middlefield) and therefore
it is not possible to provide comment on their assessment.
The sites proposed for
masterplanning are the identified
regeneration priority areas and a
map has been included to
indicate the location of these.
9. Maps
SEPA Assessment of
sites in the growth
areas
We note that you have not assessed any of the brownfield sites,
yet there may be significant effects from inclusion of these
allocations in the plan.
Brownfield sites have now been
assessed and environmental
issues highlighted.
Appendix 7.h
SEPA Air Quality Where sites are close to areas that are currently close to
prescribed air quality limits, we would expect these allocations to
be assessed as significantly negative.
Amendments have been made,
in particular some brownfield
opportunities have been
assessed has having impacts on
air quality management areas
Appendix 7.h
Appendix 7.i
Appendix 7.k
SEPA Flood risk Sites at risk from flooding should be scored as significantly
negative and sites: 2/01, 1/03, 1/14 and 3/09 are missing
reference to flood risk.
All areas at risk from flooding,
using information provided by
SEPA in response to the Main
Issues Report are noted in the
site assessments
Appendix 7.h
Appendix 7.i
Appendix 7.k
SEPA Flood Risk We have outlined the mitigation we would expect to see in the
Plan in our response to the MIR.
We have included reference to
flood risk in the site assessment,
and the ALDP requires
development to meet the
requirements of SEA mitigation.
We have also included policies
and supplementary guidance on
flooding and buffer strips to
ensure that there is no negative
impact on flooding.
Table 5.1
SEPA Flood Risk There may be effects from development connecting to public
infrastructure which is at or near capacity and you may wish to
consider this and mitigate against it in your plan.
This issue has been identified in
the cumulative assessment of
the proposals and mitigation
measures have been identified.
Error! Not a
valid result for
table.
Table 5.1
SEPA Flood Risk The assessments do not seem to have considered potential
physical impacts on the water environment, Mitigation could
subsequently include a statement for the allocation which required
This has been considered and
measures included in proposed
mitigation.
Table 5.1
46
that the watercourse not be culverted and be considered as
integral feature of the site.
SEPA Human Health We note that only preferred allocation Countesswells Road, is
assessed as having a significant negative affect on human health.
If the allocation is brought forward to the Plan mitigation will be
required to address this issue; our preference, if possible, would
be for the allocation to be amended to remove the effect.
The site included in the Propose
Plan is no longer assessed as
having a negative impact on
human health.
Appendix 7.i
SEPA Mitigation
measures
Currently the relationship between the mitigation measures and
summary mitigation table is unclear.
The summary mitigation table
has been removed from the
SEA, and all information is
contained in one table.
Table 5.1
SEPA Mitigation
measures
Where a proposal has a significant negative affect we would
strongly encourage you to revise the proposal to remove that
effect before it is included in the ALDP.
Through the production of the
ALDP and the mitigation
measures we have sought to do
the following:
1. Policy Solution
2. Supplementary guidance
solution
3. Removal of proposal
4. Modification of Proposal
5. Modification of Policy
6. Removal of policy
Table 5.1
SEPA Monitoring
Framework
We would recommend that you focus your monitoring in the
significant effects identified, or on areas where baseline
information could be usefully improved.
The monitoring now links to the
main negative issues identified
in the mitigation measures, and
is more focused.
Table 5.2:
Monitoring Plan
SEPA Next Steps Any new proposals that the MIR does not address will need to be
assessed, unless they have been assessed through other SEA
work.
All new proposals have been
assessed and are contained
within the appendices
Appendix 7.h
Appendix 7.i
Appendix 7.k
Comments from Environmental Report
SNH Non-technical
Summary
The non-technical summary should focus on setting out the
'contentious' allocations, the reasons why they have been chosen
(as opposed to credible alternatives), the mitigation that is
proposed to deal with the residual impacts and the mechanism for
delivering that mitigation.
Schedule 3 (10) and Section
14(3) of the Environmental
Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005
require a non-technical summary
on an Environmental Report to
information under paragraphs
1-9 of the Schedule. Besides, in
the Seaport Investments Ltd
[2007] NIQB 62 case in Ireland,
Mr Justice Wetherup agreed that
covering all paragraphs under
No change.
47
the schedule was essential.
Moreover Section 4.33 of the
PAN 1/2010: Strategic
Environmental Assessment of
Development Plans suggests
using simple language. This is
the approach that we have
followed.
SNH Habitats
Regulations
Appraisal
HRA is re-written following the good practice guidance. This would
be a question of re-ordering information and taking a more
systematic approach.
Accepted good practice
guidance has been followed for
HRA.
Changes to
HRA.
SNH Habitats
Regulations
Appraisal
The HRA needs to take into account whether any policies or
proposal could have a likely affect on the qualifying interests of the
Moray Firth SAC (namely Bottlenose dolphins).
The Moray Firth SAC has been
considered in the HRA.
Changes to
HRA.
SNH Whole Report Typographical errors All typographical errors will be
edited for the final
Environmental Report.
No significant
change
resulting.
SNH Action
Programme
Suggest that the action programme sets out the mitigation
identified in the Environmental Report and identifies who is
responsible for carrying out that mitigation.
Include mitigation measures in
Action Programme.
Changes to
Action
Programme.
HS Assessments Recommend that the assessment of site OP40 be altered to show
a potential significant effect on the historic environment (mostly
due to the significant impact on the setting of the scheduled
consumption dyke at the northern end of OP40. In terms of
mitigation for this significant effect you may wish to consider that
the only effective mitigation is to amend the plan.
Accepted, assessment should
identify negative impact and
refer to this in the comment box.
It is the Council's opinion that
the mitigation proposed is
adequate.
Appendix 7.i:
Assessment of
Preferred Sites
Scottish Wildlife
Trust
Environmental
Problems
Detailed amendments to Table 4.3 Environmental Problems
Relevant to the LDP
Accepted No significant
change resulting
Scottish Wildlife
Trust
Summary of
Effects
Detailed amendments to Table 5.1 Summary of Effects Accepted No significant
change resulting
Scottish Water Baseline
Information
A water position paper on abstraction from the Dee was written in
collaboration with Aberdeen City and Shire Strategic Development
Planning Authority, SEPA, SNH and Scottish Water. This could
provide further input into the Environmental Report.
Reference to the report will be
made within the baseline
information.
Appendix 7.n:
Baseline data,
targets and
trends
Scottish Water Baseline
Information
Pg. 164 If at all possible we would wish to refrain from using the
term 'constraint' in relation to water and waste assets as any issue
relating to capacity or the network can always be overcome.
It is accepted that infrastructure
constraints can always be
overcome, but this is at a cost
and will require upgrades to the
existing network. Water network
constraints have been amended
to refer to a relative constraint,
Appendix 7.n:
Baseline data,
targets and
trends
48
and that it is one that can be
overcome.
Tillydrone
CC/Riverbank
Parent
Council/Don
Crossing
Communities
Alliance
Assessments No consideration of alternatives for the Third Don within the
Environmental Report
The position of Article 4(3) of the
SEA Directive 2001/42/EC and
Section 14(3)(d) of the
Environmental Assessment
(Scotland) Act 2005 is that
“Where plans and programmes
form part of a hierarchy,
Member States shall, with a view
to avoiding duplication of the
assessment, take into account
the fact that the assessment will
be carried out, in accordance
with this Directive, at different
levels of the hierarchy. For the
purpose of, inter alia, avoiding
duplication of assessment,
Member States shall apply
Article 5(2) and (3).” We
considered that the appropriate
place for detailed assessment of
alternatives to the 3rd Don
Crossing is at a lower-tier local
transport strategy level. The
SEA of the existing adopted
Local Transport Strategy has
already considered alternatives
to this project through its STAG
appraisal in detail. The Local
Development Plan simply
reflects the strategy and policy
T1 is the relevant policy. For the
assessment to be consistent
with SEA Directive and 2005
Act, we do not intend to
duplicate the process. This is
also supported by PAN 1/2010
6.1, which states "Scoping
specific issues out on the
grounds that they have been
adequately covered in the SEA
No change.
49
of another Plan at the same
level or in a higher-tier plan or
policy document."
Tillydrone
CC/Riverbank
Parent
Council/Don
Crossing
Communities
Alliance
Assessments The assessment of the 3rd Don Crossing should recognise
negative impacts on population, health and material assets that
would arise in Tillydrone, which is a community of deprivation and
regeneration.
An Environmental Statement
was prepared in support of the
planning application for the Third
Don Crossing. The
Environmental Statement
highlights that the proposed
bridge, associated new road and
road widening would only have a
significant impact on a relatively
small number of local residents
and the environment within the
local area, including a listed
structure and a large number of
trees. The Environmental
Statement also looks at the
impacts on a wider scale, and
confirms that issues such as air
quality, noise and vibration have
an overall neutral impact, and air
quality will improve for some
residents in the King Street area.
As such we do not consider
there to be any issue for public
health
No change
Tillydrone
CC/Riverbank
Parent
Council/Don
Crossing
Communities
Alliance
Assessments Overall air quality should be negative, more roads more cars An Environmental Statement
was prepared in support of the
planning application for the Third
Don Crossing. The
Environmental Statement
highlights that the proposed
bridge, associated new road and
road widening would only have a
significant impact on a relatively
small number of local residents
and the environment within the
local area, including a listed
structure and a large number of
trees. The Environmental
Statement also looks at the
No change
50
impacts on a wider scale, and
confirms that issues such as air
quality, noise and vibration have
an overall neutral impact, and air
quality will improve for some
residents in the King Street area.
As such we do not consider
there to be any issue for public
health
Tillydrone
CC/Riverbank
Parent
Council/Don
Crossing
Communities
Alliance
Assessments T1 will not have a positive effect, and the assessment of all
projects can not be undetaken as one.
The assessment of this policy
does not indicate a positive
impact, and there are negative
impacts on water, soil,
biodiversity, climate and
landscape identified. There will
be a requirement for mitigation
for the negative impacts.
No change.
Tillydrone
CC/Riverbank
Parent
Council/Don
Crossing
Communities
Alliance
Assessments The Third Don Crossing and Haudagain Roundabout need to be
reconsidered following recent traffic data.
It is considered that any minimal
levelling of traffic volumes has
resulted as a consequence of
the economic downturn and it is
anticipated that congestion will
begin to grow again as the
economy recovers. There is
already evidence that this is
beginning to occur. Additionally,
the Aberdeen City and Shire
Structure Plan promotes the
provision of a substantial volume
of new homes and businesses
within the north east. Transport
infrastructure is required to
support this proposed
development and it is widely
acknowledged that our existing
infrastructure cannot cope with
current traffic volumes let alone
support any growth.
The Cumulative Transport
Appraisal, published by
Nestrans, takes account of
No change.
51
infrastructure schemes which
will provide significant
congestion relief over the
coming years, such as the
AWPR and improvements to
Haudagain roundabout. The
report also recognises that
additional interventions will be
required to support the full level
of development allocated in the
Aberdeen City & Shire Structure
Plan. In view of this there will be
positive impacts on some
objectives, and mitigation for any
negative impacts.
SEPA Assessments We would suggest that the Infrastructure and Developer
Contributions Policy I1 will help deliver high quality drainage
infrastructure and as a result may have positive effects on the
water receptor.
Accepted. Appendix 7.b:
Assessment of
Policies and
Supplementary
Guidance
SEPA Assessments We would suggest that Policy NE5 may have slightly positive
effects on air quality, but that it would not result in significant
effect.
Noted. No change.
SEPA Assessments Agree with assessments, but some minor comments on
assessment of supplementary guidance.
Make minor changes to
assessment of Supplementary
Guidance.
Appendix 7.b:
Assessment of
Policies and
Supplementary
Guidance
OP135 Woodside: flood risk is
identified in assessment and the
assessment identifies a
significant and long term
negative impact on water and
climate.
No change.
OP2 Murcar: Potential significant
impact on climate as a result of
flooding has been identified, and
acknowledged that site is a flood
risk category B.
No change.
SEPA Assessments You have not consistently scored those sites at significant risk of
flooding as significantly negative. We agree that OP135 Woodside
should be scored as significantly negative; others we have
identified include, as examples, OP2, OP43 and OP51.
OP43 Maidencraig: Potential
significant impact on climate as
No change.
52
a result of flooding has been
identified, and acknowledged
that site is a flood risk category
B.
OP51: Reference should be
made to flood risk and
assessment updated, potential
significant impact on climate.
Appendix 7.i:
Assessment of
Preferred Sites
SEPA Mitigation Further mitigation required in relation to flooding. Our response to
the plan makes clear the mitigation we think is required.
The amendments to the plan
suggested by SEPA to mitigate
the flood risk have been
accepted and the plan will
include these.
Broad Mitigation
Measures
SEPA Assessments The allocation assessment still does not consider the effects from
development connecting to public infrastructure which is at or near
capacity.
Development would not go
ahead until such time as new
capacity is made available.
Therefore we do not feel that
there would be an impact on
receptors as a result of existing
infrastructure being at capacity.
This is something that has been
considered in our overall site
evaluation process in the
interests of making the most
efficient use of existing
infrastructure.
No change.
SEPA Assessments We previously suggest that we would expect the assessment of
human health to take into consideration the existing poor air
quality in the centre of the City and the effect of new development
on emissions from transportation. It is not clear that this has been
considered.
Specific reference to impacts on
air quality have been identified
under the Air receptor, and
where it is identified that these
could have implications for
human health these are
identified. This will be
acknowledged in the general
assessment for development on
greenfield and brownfield sites
that the impact on air quality
may impact on human health
within these areas. Acknowledge
in the general assessment for
development on greenfield and
Appendix 7.h:
Assessment of
Brownfield Sites
Appendix 7.i:
Assessment of
Preferred Sites
53
brownfield sites that the impact
on air quality may impact on
human health within these
areas.
SEPA Monitoring Further arrangements required for the monitorig of flooding Consult with SEPA on suitable
monitoring arrangements for
flooding. There is a final
opportunity through post
adoption to comment on the
monitoring framework.
Consult with
SEPA on
Monitoring
arrangements
during post-
adoption.
Nigg CC Assessments No consideration of alternatives for the Community Stadium. SEA is concerned primarily with
strategic action such as plans,
programmes and strategies,
while EIA is concerned with
development action - projects.
Looking at alternatives to every
site will be the work for EIAs.
We took a programmatic
approach to the assessment. A
programme is a cluster of
individual projects grouped
together in a location. We have
considered how the stadium
proposal forms part of the
cluster of projects/allocations in
that part of the City. The
development of the stand alone
community stadium site at
Aberdeen Beach compared to
Loirston Loch site as an
alternative had already been
subject to a feasibility study after
which Loirston Loch site was
preferred. Thus the preferred
option for the stadium at Loirston
is part of a larger development
(OP77); and the Environmental
Assessment considered how
this particular site fits within the
programme of sites as a whole.
The development of the stand
Appendix 7.k:
Assessment of
Alternative Sites
54
alone community stadium site at
Aberdeen Beach and Loirston
Loch were assessed as
alternatives in a previous
feasibility study, and a summary
of the Environmental
Assessment for the stadium at
Aberdeen Beach and a stand
alone stadium development at
Loirston Loch is presented
below for information. The
preferred option is for a stadium
at Loirston as part of a larger
development (OP77), it is
important that the Environmental
Report for the Aberdeen Local
Development Plan – Proposed
Plan considered how a particular
site fits within the programme of
sites as a whole.
Abdul Latif 1578 Assessments Site OP107 King Street/Beach Esplanade is shown at page 83 of
the SEA report (Appendix 8e).
The report states that the development will have a 'negative
impact on air, water, soil and climatic factors due to the size of the
proposed development onsite'.
We would like to make the following comments in relation to this
statement:a)
The area is well served by local public transport, this will reduce
any negative impact
b) This is a former landfill site. Any land contamination will be
remedied as a result of the development and hence this will have
a positive impact on air, water and soil
c) The design of the building will be as green as reasonably
possible. We will make sure the building needs less heat and
electricity and will not use too much water
d) Trees have recently been planted around the perimeter of the
Accept, amendments to the
conclusion of the assessment of
OP107 is amended.
Appendix 7.j:
Other
Opportunity
Sites Identified
55
site by ACC, this will also reduce any negative impact
Abdul Latif 1578 Assessments At page 95 of the report reference is made to Map 11 which is
shown on page 187. Two projects are referred to as being shown
on this map. The Mosque is also shown on the map and should
therefore also be referred to otherwise there is inconsistency.
There is also an error in the name of the map in that it shows the
North Beach Area rather than the South Beach Area as stated in
the map’s title.
Accepted, the reference at page
95 amended to reflect
comments.
Map 10
Aberdeen Beach
Masterplan
56
7 Environmental Report Appendices
Appendix 7.a: Assessment of Strategic Options
SEA Topics
Phasing options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAsset
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Preferred Option
--
--
-/0
--
+/-
0/-
-
++
++
++
Significant Impact on air and water quality arising from developments.
Mixed impact on climatic factors as development has the potential to increase green house gas
emission through increased housing and business provision and an increased demand for transport.
However, new developments will be more efficient than existing buildings.
There would be significant positive impacts on Material assets, Population and Human Health.
There may be negative impacts on water from developments connecting to water and waste water
infrastructure that is at or near capacity.
Alternative 1
(Higher
programming in
early phases)
--
--
-/0
--
+/-
0/-
-
++
++
++
Significant impact on local air quality are expected arising from increased levels of congestion
Mixed impact on climatic factors as development has the potential to increase green house gas
emission through increased housing and business provision and an increased demand for transport.
However, new developments will be more efficient than existing buildings.
There would be significant positive impacts on Material assets, Population and Human Health.
There may be negative impacts on water from developments connecting to water and waste water
infrastructure that is at or near capacity.
Alternative 2
(Higher
programming in
later phases)
--
--
-/0
--
+/-
0/-
-
++
++
++
Significant impact on local air quality are expected arising from increased levels of congestion
Mixed impact on climatic factors as development has the potential to increase green house gas
emission through increased housing and business provision and an increased demand for transport.
However, new developments will be more efficient than existing buildings.
There would be significant positive impacts on Material assets, Population and Human Health.
There may be negative impacts on water from developments connecting to water and waste water
infrastructure that is at or near capacity.
Key + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? =
uncertain
57
Appendix 7.b: Assessment of Policies and Supplementary Guidance
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Land Release
LR1 Land Release Policy
Part A First
Phase Release
--
--
--
--
--
++/--
--
++
++
++
Policy allows the release of first phase Greenfield development, which amounts to 11,995 new homes and 105 hectares of
employment land. All the sites that would be released as a result of this policy have been assessed within the allocations. This
policy would result in a cumulative impact that would have a greater impact than the individual sites. However impact will be
minimised by development of sites and allocations being phased.
Part B Second
Phase Release
---
---
--
---
---
+++/---
---
+++
+++
+++
Policy allows the release of second phase Greenfield development, which amounts to 5,000 new homes and 70 hectares of
employment land. Assessment as per LR1, but this would increase the cumulative impact on air, water and climate. Impacts on
soil are short-term and there is unlikely to be a significant cumulative impact on soil as a result of additional development.
Part C Third
Phase Release
---
---
--
---
---
+++/---
---
+++
+++
+++
Policy allows the release of third phase Greenfield development, which amounts to 3,440 new homes. Assessment as per LR1.
Assessment as per LR1, but this would increase the cumulative impact on air, water and climate. Impacts on soil are short-term
and there is unlikely to be a significant cumulative impact on soil as a result of additional development.
LR2 Delivery Of
Mixed Use
Communities
0
+
0
0
+
0
0
++
++
+
This policy ensures that new large Greenfield housing releases include a mix of housing and employment, and that the
employment land is delivered along with the housing land. This will encourage more sustainable communities and reduce the
need for commuting. The policy does not promote development and will have mainly neutral impacts on indicators, but the
delivery of employment land will have positive benefits on material assets and population. Mixing development encourages
walking which should have a positive impact on human health and reducing our reliance on the car and fossil fuels. This policy
will help to deliver high quality drainage infrastructure and as a result may have a positive effect on water.
Infrastructure Delivery
I1 Infrastructure
Delivery and
Developer
Contributions
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
++
+
++
This policy provides guidance on developer contributions and infrastructure requirements. It provides a clear and concise guide
to the contributions that each developer will be expected to pay to support new development. Providing infrastructure, services
and facilities would have a positive affect on a range of receptors. It would have a positive affect on material assets, human
health and population as it would provide for new and improved infrastructure as well as likely improve the supply of housing –
such as affordable housing and community and health facilities.
SG
Infrastructure
and Developer
Contributions
Manual
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
++
+
++
This Supplementary Guidance document provides details on the methodology and rationale for the infrastructure identified to
support the sites identified in the Local Development Plan. It also sets out the criteria that should be used to calculate
developer contributions for any development proposed in the City. The SG should improve the ability to secure the delivery of
an appropriate level of infrastructure from new development. The provision of new infrastructure, such as public transport,
walking and cycling routes, health facilities and schools would have a positive affect on material assets, human health and the
population.
58
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
City Centre
C1 City Centre
Development –
Regional Centre
-
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0/+
0
This policy promotes the city centre as a location for regional developments and ensures development does not negatively
impact on the city centre. This policy will have a positive affect on material assets as it would promote the creation of more
retail and business uses in the City Centre. The policy will also have a positive affect on landscape and cultural heritage as
cultural heritage will be conserved or enhanced by development and landscape will be conserved outwith the city centre as
development is encouraged in the built up area. The policy has no impact on water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors and
human health. There may be a slight positive impact on population as a well developed city centre may attract more people to
the city. There may be a negative impact on air due to the likely negative impact on the City Centre Air Quality Management
Areas as a result of promoting development.
C2 City Centre
Business Zone
-
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0/+
0
This policy promotes the City Centre Business Zone as the preferred first choice for major retail developments. This policy will
have a positive affect on material assets as it would promote the creation of more retail in the City Centre. The policy would
also have a positive affect on landscape and cultural heritage as cultural heritage will be conserved or enhanced by
development and landscape will be conserved outwith the city centre as development is encouraged in the built up area. The
policy has no impact on water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors and human health. There may be a slight positive impact on
population as a well developed city centre may attract more people to the city. There may be a negative impact on air due to
the likely negative impact on the City Centre Air Quality Management Areas as a result of promoting development.
C3 Union Street
– Change of
Use
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0/+
0
This policy promotes Union Street as a key retail location within the City Centre to maintain and enhance vitality and viability.
This policy will have a positive affect on material assets as it would promote the creation of more retail and business uses in the
City Centre. The policy will also have a positive affect on cultural heritage as it will be conserved or enhanced. The policy has
no impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health. There may be a slight positive impact
on population as a well developed city centre may attract more people to the city.
Retail
RT1 Sequential
Approach and
Retail Impact
-
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0/+
0
This policy promotes retail, business and leisure development to be located according to the sequential approach. This policy
will have a positive affect on material assets as it would promote the creation of more retail and business uses in the City
Centre. The policy would also have a positive affect on landscape and cultural heritage as cultural heritage will be conserved or
enhanced by development and landscape will be conserved outwith the city centre as development is encouraged in the built up
area. The policy has no impact on water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors and human health. There may be a slight positive
impact on population as a well developed city centre may attract more people to the city. There may be a slight positive impact
on population as a well developed city centre may attract more people to the city.
RT2 Out of
Centre
Proposals
+/-
0
+
+
0
0
+
0
0
0
This policy discourages retail development in out of centre locations. This policy will have no affect on water, climatic factors,
cultural heritage, material assets, population and human health. The policy will positively affect soil, biodiversity and landscape
as retail development on undeveloped land is discouraged. There may also be a positive and negative affect on air as more
retail development is encouraged in the city centre which may affect the City Centre Air Quality Management Areas but air
quality may be positively affected outwith the city centre due to the restrictions on retail development.
RT3 Town,
District and
Neighbourhood
Centres
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
This policy discourages a change of use from retail in town, district and neighbourhood centres. This policy will have a positive
impact on material assets as it would promote the retention of more retail and business uses in town, district and neighbourhood
centres. The policy would also have a positive impact on population as this will maintain local facilities for residents.
59
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
RT4 Local
Shops
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
+
0
This policy discourages change of use from retail in all local shops outwith designated shopping centres. The policy will have a
positive affect on material assets as it would promote the retention of more retail and business uses in areas outwith designated
shopping centres. It would also have a positive affect on cultural heritage as cultural heritage will be conserved or enhanced by
development. The policy has no impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health. There will
be a positive impact on population as this will maintain local facilities for residents.
RT5 Retail
Development
Serving New
Development
Areas
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
0
This policy encourages appropriate retail development within new housing sites. This policy will have no impact on air, water,
soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, cultural heritage, landscape and human health. It will have a positive impact on material
assets as it would promote the creation of more retail and business uses in new developments. It would also have a positive
impact on population as this will maintain local facilities for residents.
SG Hierarchy of
Centres
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
+
0 This Supplementary Guidance supports Policy RT1 Sequential Approach and Retail Development. This Supplementary
Guidance will have a positive impact on material assets as it would promote the creation of more retail and business uses in the
City Centre and other retail centres. The Supplementary Guidance would also have a positive affect on landscape and cultural
heritage as cultural heritage will be conserved or enhanced by development.
SG Harmony of
Uses
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
This is a group of Supplementary Guidance which encourages the harmony of uses in and outwith the City Centre with regards
to liquor licensed premises, street cafes, amusement centres and arcades, hot food takeaways and residential uses. This
Supplementary Guidance will have no impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health. It
would have a significant impact on cultural heritage as historical shutters will be maintained, keeping heritage present within
conservation areas.
SG Shopfront
Security
0
0
0
0
0
++
0
0
0
0
This Supplementary Guidance aims to enhance and maintain the high quality of life within the city by promoting shopfront
security measures. It will have no impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape, material assets, population
and human health. It would have a significant impact on cultural heritage as historical shutters will be maintained, keeping
heritage present within conservation areas.
SG Union Street
Frontages
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0/+
0
This Supplementary Guidance supports Policy C3 Union Street – Change of Use. This Supplementary Guidance will have a
positive affect on material assets as it would promote the creation of more retail and business uses in the City Centre. The
Supplementary Guidance will also have a positive affect on cultural heritage as it will be conserved or enhanced. The policy has
no impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health. There may be a slight positive impact
on population as a well developed city centre may attract more people to the city.
Housing
60
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
H1 Residential
Areas
--
--
--
--
--
++/--
--
++
++
++
Policy identifies areas of residential development and allows compatible uses to be developed in these areas, but ensures the
character and amenities of such areas are retained. Housing development is likely to have short-term adverse affects soil
through soil erosion, desegregation, compaction and pollution during construction phases. Housing development could
potentially have short-term negative impacts on water through a change in water table, stream flows, site water budgets,
localised flooding, silt deposition and water-borne pollution. Inevitably, some localised impacts on watercourses would occur
due to the development. Greenfield development is likely to impact negatively on biodiversity through the loss of habitats,
habitat fragmentation or disturbance to species that use the site as a habitat. The scale of development that could be
accommodated on site could have a negative impact on climate due to increased use of resources and increased emissions.
Positively for population, human health and material assets, large scale housing development is likely to have long-term positive
affects. Provision of new housing in conformity with new building standards can enhance good health and social justice for
people with no access to housing now gaining access to housing. Since new homes are more energy efficient than the existing
stock; they reduce running costs and assist in decreasing fuel poverty. Greenfield development is likely to have a negative
impact on landscape. These effects may weaken the sense of place, the identity of existing settlements and landscape
character in places. Depending on implementation strategies, housing development proposed on these greenfield sites could
positively or adversely affect the built features, their context, pattern of past historic use, and associations of the historic
environment, which encompasses built heritage features (ancient monuments, archaeological sites and landscapes, historic
buildings, townscapes, parks, gardens and designed landscapes, as well as marine heritage) and the context or setting in which
they sit, and the patterns of past use, in landscapes and within the soil, and also in our towns, villages and streets. The planning
and design of developments, which conforms, substantially to the City’s existing design, layout, material and quality is likely to
have long-term positive affects. But new developments that deviate from existing designs could adversely affect the setting of
historic settlements in the long-term. New housing provides the scope for creation of fixed assets, the use of natural and
material assets, promoting waste minimisation, recycling and composting.
H2 Mixed Use
Areas
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
Policy allows for certain areas to be developed with a mix of uses and protects the mixed uses against the potential negative
affects of each other. The policy protects the existing use, character and townscape of an area – therefore protecting the
historic environment and setting. It improves the supply of housing through allowing housing development in areas not
traditionally housing, e.g. above shops in the city centre, and looks to protect against development that would adversely affect
the amenity of people living and working in a mixed use area. This policy does not promote any particular development but
regulates any potential developments in mixed use areas to ensure that there is no negative impact on existing uses, therefore
neutral impacts apart from a positive impact on material assets.
H3 Housing
Density
0
0
+
+
+
0
0
0
0
0
Policy seeks minimum densities for new developments. The purpose is to make the most efficient use of land and to encourage
higher densities around transport nodes, which will encourage more sustainable travel patterns. This policy does not promote
development, but regulates the allocations made through the Local Development Plan, therefore impacts are neutral apart from
positives on soil, biodiversity and climate as development will require less land.
H4 Housing Mix
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
This policy seeks to encourage a mix of house types and sizes. The purpose is to ensure that there is a wide variety of houses
to support the population. This policy does not promote development, but regulates the allocations made through the Local
Development Plan; therefore impacts are neutral apart from positive on material assets and population as a result of the mix of
house types that would be delivered.
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SEA Topics
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Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
H5 Affordable
Housing
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
Policy states a figure that is expected for affordable housing from new developments. The purpose is to ensure that sufficient
affordable housing is delivered to meet the needs of those people in housing need. This policy does not promote development,
but ensures a % of development is affordable to those on lower incomes. Therefore, impacts are neutral apart from positive on
material assets and population as a result of the mix of house types that would be delivered. There would also be a positive
impact on human health as people on lower incomes will have better access to suitable accommodation that meets their needs.
H6Gypsy and
Traveller
Caravan Sites
--
--
--
--
--
++/--
--
++
++
++
Policy allows for the development of Gypsy and Traveller sites if they can ensure that there will be no significant impact. This
policy does not promote development, but does allow development if criteria can be met. Therefore policy may result in
development of Gypsy and Traveller sites but will ensure that proposals for development minimise their impact. Therefore,
impacts are the same as per policy H1 Residential Areas.
H7Gypsy and
Traveller
Requirements
for new
residential
developments
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
Policy states a figure that is expected for affordable housing from new developments. Within specified sites a small proportion of
that requirement is to be for Gypsies and Travellers. The purpose is to ensure that across the city housing is delivered to meet
the needs of all people in housing need. This policy does not promote development, but ensures a % of development is
developed for Gypsies and Travellers. Therefore, impacts are neutral apart from positive on material assets and population as a
result of the mix of house types that would be delivered. There would also be a positive impact on human health as people in
housing need will have better access to suitable accommodation that meets their needs, and is closer to schools and medical
facilities.
H8Housing and
Aberdeen
Airport
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
Policy identifies areas where residential development will not be permitted in relation to the Airport. The policy will have a
positive impact on human health as it stops development occurring where there are excess noise levels from the airport which
would be detrimental to residential amenity. All other impacts are neutral.
SG Affordable
Housing Guide
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Supplementary Guidance on affordable housing provides more detailed advice on the provision of affordable housing and the
process for ensuring deliver of affordable housing. The Supplementary Guidance does not promote new development or change
the aim of the affordable housing policy, therefore impacts are neutral.
SG Gypsy and
Traveller Site
Provision
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Supplementary Guidance on Gypsy and Traveller Site Provision provides more detailed advice on the provision of Gypsy and
Traveller Sites and advice on the process for ensuring Gypsy and Traveller sites within new developments. The Supplementary
Guidance does not promote new development or change the aim of the affordable housing policy, therefore impacts are neutral.
Community Facilities
CF1 Existing
Community sites
and Facilities
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
Policy seeks to protect existing community sites and facilities for their original uses and allows for extension to such sites if
appropriate and in accordance with policy. The policy would have positive affects by making sure that the character and vitality
of an area was kept, the promotion of key fixed assets such as hospitals and schools and improve the well-being of all age
groups in the community.
CF2 New
Community
Facilities
0
0
0
0
0
0
+/-
+
+
+
Supports new community facilities provided they are in convenient locations and are readily accessible to all. Can improve
brownfield land, whilst be detrimental to greenfield sites. The policy promotes the creation of fixed assets such as hospitals or
schools, and cause positive changes to the well-being of all age groups.
62
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
SG Private
Children’s
Nurseries
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
This SG does not promote development but sets out the criteria for allowing children’s nurseries in residential areas. The
proposal promotes safe access so there may be a small positive impact on human health. There are no significant impacts
anticipated on the other SEA topics.
SG Sports
Facilities
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
++
This SG does not promote development but sets out the criteria for developing sports facilities. It also protects existing facilities
so there are expected to be positive impacts on human health and the population. No other significant impacts are anticipated.
Design
D1 Architecture
and
Placemaking
(Design Quality)
0
0
0
+
++
++
++
0
+
+
Good design leads to a good quality of life and can attract people and businesses to Aberdeen. This policy may lead to an
enhancement and improvement of Aberdeen’s unique character, ensure more sustainable neighbourhoods are developed and
ensure that new housing developments integrate with the local identity, context and settlement patterns. High quality design in
all buildings and developments that enhance context, connectivity and identity are expected. Biodiversity rates as a positive as
sites that are part of the masterplan process will possibly contain green corridors. Landscaping will ensure the natural elements
on the landscape provide good biodiversity habitats and wildlife corridors. More sustainable and better design communities will
reduce the need for driving, and encourage walking, non motorised modes of transport and the use of public transport. Also with
houses that are better designed to fit within the landscape and make use of natural elements, such as solar gain. These all aim
to reduce CO2 emissions and promote energy efficiency. Placemaking involves using the existing built and natural heritage as a
basis for the development of new sites. It is expected that many historic buildings within development sites will be retained
and/or reused thereby ensure the cultural heritage is protected. With regard to landscape new developments will look to the
natural landscape and pick out traces in the landscape to be used in or to inform the design of place. Places will have a mix of
uses and facilities for a wide range of people and a wide range of house type will be available for people at all ages of life.
Human health will improve as there will be access to a number of walkways and multiuse paths to encourage active travel.
Provision of appropriate and relevant open space will also be included in developments.
D2 Design and
Amenity
0
0
0
+
+
++
+
+
+
++
This policy requires that development proposals are welcoming, safe, and pleasant places that enhance the public realm. By
ensuring light does not spill into the night sky there may be an increase in biodiversity as insects and other creatures are not
confused by inappropriate levels of light. Public art will increase cultural heritage, landscape and material assets by ensuring the
street and other areas are interesting and welcoming places with attractive features. This policy will impact positively on the
population as it protects new buildings from antisocial behaviour and will make housing more attractive, regardless of location
and increasing community safety. Human health will be increased through more safely design developments. Developments will
benefit solar gain and orientation to capture sunlight.
D3 Sustainable
and Active
Travel
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy ensures that the design and layout of new development reflects the modal hierarchy identified in National Planning
Policy and the principles of Designing Streets, and ensures that services, facilities and jobs are accessible to new communities.
This policy has a positive affect on air, climatic factors and human health by promoting walking and cycling and sustainable
public transport over car/other motorised vehicle use, a reduction in motorised vehicle use leads to less congestion and
improved local air quality. This policy also encourages active travel within communities helping to tackle obesity and improve
human health.
63
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
D4 Aberdeen’ s
Granite heritage
0
0
+
0
0
++
++
0
+
0
Granite is an important part of Aberdeen and provides the very distinctive character of the city. There will be many positive
impacts from the granite heritage policy. Reusing historic sites may involve a clean up operation to remove contamination. The
historic environment will be protected and the reuse of existing buildings promoted, thereby improving our cultural heritage. The
landscape features will be protected through the retention of original settled streets and granite pavements thereby maintaining
the character of streets. Many disused historic buildings may be converted into dwelling houses or employment use, thereby
increasing the supply of housing and employment opportunity
D5 Built
Heritage
0
0
+
0
0
++
+
0
+
0
Allows for the sensitive conversion of listed buildings. Policy will have positive affects through better maintenance of historically
valuable buildings and townscape, reuse of derelict buildings/land, increasing the supply of housing through conversion and
improving the overall environment. Through the retention and reuse of listed buildings there is the possibility that a clean up of
contamination may be required thereby improving soil quality. Also as the policy is about protecting and reusing historic
buildings, cultural heritage will be protected and enhanced. A sense of place will be maintained and developed further through
this policy, impacting positively on landscape and the supply of housing or employment space may be increased due to the
conversation of listed buildings, impacting positively on population by giving them a choice of living and work space.
Encourages sensitive conversion of buildings in rear lanes. Policy would have positive affects through retaining the character of
rear lanes and the townscape. Through the retention and reuse of buildings in rear lanes in conservation areas there is the
possibility that a clean up of contamination may be required thereby improving soil quality. Also as the policy is about preserving
and enhancing conservation area, cultural heritage will be protected and enhanced. A sense of place will be maintained and
developed further through this policy, impacting positively on landscape.
D6 Landscape
0
+
0
+
+
+
++
+
0
+
The policy protects Aberdeen’s landscape setting from unacceptable development. It aims to protect the essence of Aberdeen,
ensure that strategic view points that are specific to Aberdeen are protected, ensures wildlife, recreation and woodland settings
and linkages are protected to ensure countryside activity and ensure coalescence is avoided. The policy also requires details of
a landscape design scheme compatible with the scale and character of the overall development are submitted with planning
applications. The positive impact relating to water may be that water elements within the landscape may be enhanced, as they
could become riparian buffers thereby possibly improving water quality. Soil will be enhanced as Biodiversity and climatic factors
will have a positive impact as wildlife corridors, open space, green corridors and landscaping will ensure that there is good
habitat and the possibility to reduce CO2 emissions by encouraging active travel. Material assets will be improved as the
essential character and strategic views of Aberdeen will be protected and enhanced. Human health will be improved as there
will be the ability for active travel and recreation in open space. This also benefits mental health, alongside physical health.
64
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Landscape
Planning
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+/This
policy aims to protect important landscapes which are both natural and manmade, plus, allow the creation of developments
that are sympathetic to the existing landscape character. Development that is sympathetic to some aspects of landscape will
have a direct significant negative affect on biodiversity, soil and water. There will also be an indirect significant negative affect
on air and climatic factors. However, this policy provides protection to natural and existing manmade landscapes including the
need to avoid impacts to wildlife, woodland and the physical links between them which will have a direct significant positive
affect on biodiversity, soil and water, plus, an indirect significant positive affect on air and climatic factors. These effects are
likely to be medium to long term, plus, temporary and permanent. Cultural heritage sites help to create landscapes, therefore,
this policy should have direct and indirect significant positive affects in areas where the cultural heritage is protected or
enhanced as part of new development. This should be medium to long term and temporary or permanent. Development at sites
may not always benefit all areas of local cultural importance, such as historic informal playing areas which are classed as
patterns of past use, and there may be some direct significant negative affects which could be long term and permanent. The
aim of this policy to conserve, enhance and restore important landscapes and will have a direct significant positive affect on
landscape which can be medium to long term and permanent. However, direct significant negative affects may occur on natural
or scenic landscapes where development is sited in areas of little development. This will be long term and permanent.
Depending on the landscape capacity of a site, the creation of new material assets may not be accepted which will create a
direct significant negative affect. Direct significant positive affects will occur for new material assets that are positive to the
landscape. These affects will be medium to long term and both temporary and permanent. The affects on population are
expected to be direct and indirect significant positive affects due to the protection of important landscapes and the creation of
development to cater for population growth which has been sympathetic to landscape. This effect will be medium term and
temporary. The loss of biodiversity and associated negative affects on soil, water, air and climatic factors as a result of
development will have an indirect significant negative affect on human health, however, the provision of new development that is
also sympathetic to landscape will have an indirect significant positive affect on human health. These effects are likely to be
medium to long term and permanent.
SG Tall and
large buildings
0
0
0
0
0
++
++
+
+
0
The Supplementary Guidance on Tall and large buildings outlines the strategic views within the city and the criteria proposals for
tall and large buildings have to consider. By ensuring tall and large buildings take account of strategic views, landmarks and
landscape they will add to the overall aesthetic of the city. By being well designed they can also add architectural merit and
enhance the city skyline. This supplementary guidance will ensure that cultural heritage and landscape are protected as tall or
large buildings have to consider these elements thoroughly in their design and placement. Material assets will see an
improvement as the city will improve its stock of tall and large building, as they will be better designed. Population will also see
an improvement as there will be more places to work in the city centre.
65
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
SG
Masterplanning
Process
+
0
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
The Supplementary Guidance on the Aberdeen Masterplanning Process provides guidance on the three levels of development
proposal that are expected within the city, the content of the proposal and communication and engagement that is expected to
be undertaken. The Masterplanning process will ensure that rounded development are proposed that ensure sustainable
communities are build, with a relationship to context, identity and connection. Sites that follow the Masterplanning process are
well connected internally and externally, they ensure sustainable modes of transport are present and that local facilities are
located close to residential units. These factors will help to improve air quality and reduce CO2 emissions as there are
opportunities to use non motorised modes of transport and public transport to travel between home, work and shopping
facilities, thereby having a positive impact on climatic factors. Soil quality may be improved as sites that may be subject to
contamination could be redeveloped. Biodiversity rates as a positive as site that are part of the masterplan process may contain
green corridors and landscaping, that will ensure the natural elements on the landscape provide good biodiversity habitats and
wildlife corridors. Cultural heritage is positive as existing historic buildings on sites will be used to inform the design process and
will most likely be retained and reused with in the site. Landscape characteristics and traces on the landscape will be used to
inform the design process and it is likely that many of these elements will be kept in the development, linking the development
into the identity of the place. Material assets will be positive as more attractive and welcoming place to live, work and play will be
developed. The population will have a wider choice in where they live, work and travel to. Finally human health will be improved
due to the connectivity, internally and externally of sites and well designed and appropriate areas of open space which benefit
both physical and mental wellbeing.
SG Aberdeen
City and Shire
Design Review
Panel
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
++
++
0
This supplementary guidance outlines what the design review panel is, what it aims to achieve, who is involved and what the
process is. The basic function of the design panel is to raise awareness of design in the North East, with the need for
improvements to be made to the quality of the built environment by securing well designed places and buildings that respect
and contribute positively to their settings, promote aspiration, provide a sense of place, and use resources efficiently. The
design review panel will assess a variety and scale of developments ranging from individual buildings to masterplanned sites.
The design review panel will draw together a number of professionals to advise and critique plans. The results will be more
coherent, well rounded developments. Depending on the type of site that is being assessed there may either be no impact or a
positive impact. Landscape will be impacted positively as well placed well designed buildings and development will enhance and
promote landscape features. Material assets will be positively impacted as the design quality of development and buildings will
be improved beyond the current standard. The population will benefit from well designed buildings and developments within
which they can live and work.
SG Conversion
of steadings
0
0
0
-/0
0
+
+/-
+
+
0
The aim of the guidance is aid those who are considering converting a traditional agricultural steading or other non-residential
vernacular building in the Aberdeen countryside to an alternative use. This supplementary guidance will have little impact on air,
water or soil. There is the potential for a negative impact on biodiversity as many buildings in poor condition are habitats for a
number of wildlife species, therefore the conversion of the buildings may destroy or limit the potential roosting sites for wildlife.
There is the possibility of positive impacts on cultural heritage as historic building may be protected for future generations,
thereby enhancing cultural heritage. The impact to landscape is personal in nature. A person may see the redevelopment of a
dilapidated building as either adding to the landscape or detracting from it. Material assets could be improved as a building that
was unused is now used. The positive impact on the population as that there is now more choice of housing available.
SG Dormer
windows and
roof extensions
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
The Dormer windows and Roof Extensions Design Guide give guidance on the appropriate style and placement of dormer
windows and roof extensions. This guidance will improve cultural heritage and material assets as it aims to eliminate poorly
designed and badly placed development that will detract from the quality of the individual buildings and the street.
66
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
SG Dwelling
Extensions (in
Cove and
Aberdeen
Addendum)
0
0/-
0
0/-
0
0
0
+
0
0
The supplementary guidance gives advice and guidance on the appropriate scale, height and placement of extensions of
dwelling in Aberdeen and Cove. There will be a positive contribution to material assets as well designed and well placed
extensions could add to the desirability of the dwelling. Extensions could have a negative impact on water as the rate of run off
may be increased as there is less ‘natural’ land available as a soak away. There is also a possible negative impact on
biodiversity for a similar reason, in that land will now be built on.
SG Extensions
to Dwelling
Houses Forward
of the Build Line
0
0/-
0
0/-
0
0
0
+
0
0
The supplementary guidance gives advice and guidance on the appropriate scale and placement of extensions forward of the
build line. There will be a positive contribution to material assets as well designed and well placed extensions could add to the
desirability of the dwelling. Extensions could have a negative impact on water as the rate of run off may be increased as there is
less ‘natural’ land available as a soak away. There is also a possible negative impact on biodiversity for a similar reason, in that
land will now be built on.
TAN Lime
Harling Guide
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
This supplementary guidance gives advice on when it is appropriate to lime harl buildings and the techniques and methods that
should be used. The positive impacts will be to cultural heritage and material assets. Cultural heritage will benefit as only those
buildings which were original intended to be lime harled, or are in a poor state of repair will be lime harled. This will improve the
design quality of the building and its ability to breath. Material assets will be improved as lime harling could add to the
desirability of the dwelling.
TAN Repointing
of Granite
Masonary Joints
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
The repointing of masonry joints provides guidance as to when and how to repoint a building. If done incorrectly pointing can
physically damage the fabric of a building and it can also alter is appearance and character. If done correctly the cultural
heritage of the city will be protected, and the material assets may be improved as buildings will not be affected by the impacts of
poor pointing such as damp.
TAN Railings
Guide
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
This guidance gives advice on how to repair or reinstate cast iron railings. These can add to the cultural heritage of the city by
add to the sense of place, and environment of the city in a positive way. The material assets of also be improved as the railings
may add to the character of the building and street.
TAN
Replacement
windows and
doors
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
This supplementary guidance gives advice on the necessary requirements for the replacement of windows and doors in a
number of building types and designations. The two factors that will be improved by this are cultural heritage and material
assets. The replaced items will ensure that the windows and doors add to the character of the buildings, block or street and add
to a sense of place. Material assets may improve as buildings, blocks and streets will look more attractive with windows and
doors that are appropriate to their setting and fit with other buildings in the street, or block.
SG Stone
cleaning
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
The stone cleaning guidance gives advice on when planning permission are necessary for the cleaning of designated buildings
before outlining the types of cleaning that are available. This will allow for cultural heritage and material assets to become more
attractive within their setting.
SG Temporary
Buildings Guide
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
0
0
This guidance gives a definition of a temporary building and advice on where temporary buildings should be sited in relation to
existing buildings. By ensuring that the temporary building is sited correctly it will not detract from the attractiveness of the
existing building or street, thereby ensuring that cultural heritage and landscape are not negatively impacted.
SG Archaeology
and Planning
0
0
0
0
0
++
++
0
0
0
This guidance is a protective policy. It will protect built features, their context, pattern of past historic use, and associations of
the historic environment, which encompasses built heritage features (ancient monuments, archaeological sites and landscapes,
historic buildings, townscapes, parks, gardens and designed landscapes. It is therefore likely to have long-term positive affects
on landscape and cultural heritage.
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SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
SG Sub division
and
redevelopment
of residential
curtilages
0
0
0
0/-
0
-
-/0
+/-
0
0
The supplementary guidance outlines the concerns that have to be addresses when a residential curtiltage is sub divided and
redeveloped. The impact on biodiversity could be negative or not at all depending on the existing use of the areas that is to be
developed. There is the possibility of a loss of wildlife habitat. Cultural heritage will be negativity impacted as the original setting
of the building will be lost. The landscape could be negatively impacted as the area is used for development when it was
possibly openspace. There is also the possibility that due to the proper siting of development that landscape will not be
negatively impacted. Material asserts may either have a positive or a negative impact as the attractiveness of a site is based in
personal opinion and people may prefer larger gardens over more dwelling houses and vice versa.
SG
Conservation
areas appraisals
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
The conservation area appraisals justify the designation of each conservation area and review the existing boundaries, identify
important characteristics of each area in terms of townscape, architecture and history, to identify important issues which affect
the conservation area and to identify scheme for enhancement. Conservation area appraisals improve the cultural heritage of
the city by ensuring that those areas of special charter are enhanced and developed appropriately. This will also add a positive
impact to material assets are the attractiveness of buildings, streets and areas is preserved and enhanced.
SG Landscape
strategy part 2
0
0/+
0/+
+
0
+
+
0
0
0
The second part of the landscape strategy sets out 14 landscape practice notes to act as a guide to the factors that needs to be
considered in developments. They intent to raise the general awareness of landscape issues and standards for new
developments aid the effectiveness of the development management process and address the lack of professional landscape
design in some planning applications. The elements of landscaping that are proposed will add to the biodiversity of
developments thereby having a positive impact. Soil is vital for some characteristic vegetation and habitat to survive, therefore
the maintenance of these soils is crucial. This will either not be impacted or will be positively impacted if vegetation is added to
areas and that reduced soil erosion. Water will be impacted through the placement of development that follow these guidelines,
and will ensure that natural drains or open water course and their associated waterside wildlife and vegetation are reflected in
the design of the development. These may even been improved through the enhancement of the area as a riparian buffer. The
landscape and townscape character of a development has to be conserved and enhanced through development, and the trace
on the land should inform the design process therefore this will have a positive impact on cultural heritage. The landscape will
be positively enhanced as development will have to ensure that it fits within the landscape and takes account of distinguishing
features. Appropriate landscaping it also advised.
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SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
SG Airport
Masterplan
-/0
-/0
-/0
0
-/0
0
-
-/0
+
0
The masterplan for Aberdeen Airport outlines the sustained and responsible growth of the airport until 2030. The masterplan
aims to set out the prospects for air traffic growth up to 2030, to clearly identify the areas of land currently outside the airport’s
boundaries which may be required in order to allow the airport to expand to handle the forecast growth in passenger numbers,
to set out the approximate timescales for the incremental phasing of additional capacity requirements, to identify the key
improvements required to ground transport links (surface access), serving the airport and the surrounding area, to inform the
current and future reviews of the Aberdeen City Local Plan and the North East Scotland (NEST) Structure Plan, to identify
environmental impacts and set out mitigation strategies. Due to the proposed increase in fixed wing traffic at the airport it is
possible that the air may become more polluted, however, due to modern advances in technology this may be not so. Soil and
water course may become polluted due to run off from the airport; therefore they may be a negative impact. Climatic factors may
be negatively impacted due to the volume of CO2 released due to the proposed increased volume of fixed wing flights from the
airport, however, it is also predicted that there will be a reduced number of helicopter flights. Also modern technology is trying to
reduce CO2 emissions. Landscape may be negatively impacted if an extension to the runway is built. Material assets may be
negativity impacted if they sit below the flight path. Population may be positively impacted as people may wish to travel for work
and pleasure.
SG Fire Station
North Anderson
Drive
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
The SG outlines the proposed used for the fire station as residential use if the site becomes surplus to requirement. The positive
aspects will relate to the development of residential accommodation, which may supply the population with more housing.
SG Robert
Gordon
University
Campus
-/0
0
0
-/+
0
0
0
+
+
0
The SG for the Robert Gordon University Campus at garthdee outlines a proposal to consolidate the Robert Gordon Campus
into one site and release the City Centre site, once surplus to requirement. The masterplan for this site outlines that they will
have a reduced number of car parking places than is outlined in policy and they will ensure an active travel plan is in place,
walking and cycling routes are also to be encouraged. This will help to mitigate air pollution, but there will be a negative impact
due to the increase volume of traffic going to the site compare to at present. Biodiversity will’ be impacted as habitats such as
tress are to be removed, however these will be replaced and existing areas of high quality woodland and trees will be retained
and protected. Material assets will be enhanced as the site will aim to consolidate all the university building into one place, and
provide a high quality campus, that is energy efficient and sustainable. The population will benefit from having a campus of this
nature.
Minerals energy and Waste
R1 Minerals
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+
0
+
+/-
0
0
This policy allows for mineral extraction which will have negative affects on air, water and soil. However, this is also a controlling
policy, so these negative impacts would be mitigated as far as practicable. The controls in policy will ensure that there are no
significant impacts on human health. Local extraction for local uses reduces transport requirements and impacts positively on
climate change. Impacts on material assets are mixed. Although the policy allows for mineral development, there are
restrictions in terms of location and operation.
R2 Degraded
and
Contaminated
Land
0
+
++
0
0
0
0
0
0
++
This requires contaminated land to be remediated to a level appropriate to its use. This is likely to have significant positive
impacts on human health, soils and possibly groundwater. No other significant impacts are anticipated.
69
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
R3 New Waste
Management
Facilities
+
+
++
0
++
0
+/-
+
0
0
The main affect of this policy is to promote the waste hierarchy and reduce our reliance on landfill. Reducing landfill will have
positive affects on air, water and soil quality and will reduce the amount of methane – a powerful greenhouse gas – which is
released. This will have a significant positive impact on climate change. Higher recycling will make better use of resources
which positively impacts on material assets. New facilities are likely to impact on the landscape but the policy requires a design
statement where development is likely to have more than a local impact.
R4 Sites for
New Waste
Management
Facilities
+/-
+
++
0
++
0
+/-
++
0
0
These are the type of facilities which are required to reduce our reliance on landfill so the scores are similar to those for Policy
R3. There could be localised impacts on air quality from some of these facilities but Policy R3 would require appropriate control,
mitigation and monitoring of these. These facilities will be valuable material assets and because they will also result in an
increase in the recycling of resources, they warrant a significant positive affect on material resources. None of the sites
identified are likely to significantly affect biodiversity or cultural heritage.
R5 Energy From
Waste
+/-
0
0
0
+
0
+/-
+
0
0
Energy from Waste could cause localised impacts on air quality and the landscape but Policy R3 would require appropriate
control, mitigation and monitoring of these. These facilities will be valuable material assets but because they are not as far up
the waste hierarchy as waste reduction and recycling, they would not warrant a significant positive affect on material assets.
Providing CHP to neighbouring users will reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources and will impact positively on climate
change. In order to ensure that these facilities do not negatively affect residential amenity, biodiversity or cultural heritage, it is
recommended that the policy should include a reference directing them to industrial areas.
R6 and SG
Waste
Management
Requirements
for New
Development
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy and guidance requires appropriate storage for waste and recycling facilities in new development and is unlikely to
raise many significant effects. There could be a positive impact on material assets as it could encourage businesses and
householders to recycle more.
R7 Low and
Zero Carbon
Buildings
0
0
0
-
+
-
-
+
0
+
This policy ensures that new buildings incorporate renewable technologies to reduce their predicted carbon emissions. As a
result this will encourage the incorporation of micro renewables and larger renewable technologies. The renewable technologies
may have negative impacts on biodiversity, cultural heritage, landscape if not carefully sited. This policy will have positive affects
on climate. Developments will have positive benefits on material assets as there will be more control over future energy
supplies. There will also be positive benefits on human health as the policy will enhance good health since new homes are more
energy efficient than the existing stock; they reduce running costs and assist in decreasing fuel poverty.
R8 Renewable
and Low Carbon
Energy
Developments
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
0
This policy promotes renewable energy schemes in Aberdeen, and sets criteria to ensure that where there are no significant
impacts resulting from development. Developments may have the potential to have negative impacts on water, soil, biodiversity,
cultural heritage, landscape if not carefully sited, however there are provisions in the policy to ensure that there are no
significant negative impacts. For larger schemes there will be a requirement for an EIA and combined there should be no
negative impact on indicators. The will be positive benefits on climate as a result of reduced use of fossil fuels.
SG Low and
Zero Carbon
Buildings
0
-
-
-
+
-
-
+
0
+
Supplementary Guidance on Low and Zero Carbon Buildings provides more detailed advice on the provision of renewable
technologies and sets increasing targets for the reduction of carbon emissions through the implementation of low and zero
carbon technologies. The Supplementary Guidance does not promote new development or change the aim of the policy, but the
increasing standards will have the same impacts as the Low and Zero Carbon Buildings Policy.
Natural Environment
70
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
NE1
Greenspace
Network
+
+
0
+
+
0
+
0
0
+
The policy aims to create a green network throughout and surrounding the urban area. It will have a positive affect on air quality
due to the protection and enhancement of a green network both in terms of vegetation, particularly trees, absorbing CO2 and
NO2 and removing particles, and the use of the network to facilitate modal shift to walking and cycling. Water impacts are likely
to be positive as water bodies are usually within Green Space Network and should be protected and enhanced as part of the
policy. Green Space Network will protect and enhance habitats, therefore having a positive affect on biodiversity. There will
also be some positive impact on climatic factors through absorbing greenhouse gases and reducing some vulnerability to
flooding. No significant impact on cultural heritage although may offer some opportunities to promote and protect cultural
heritage assets. One of the intentions of the policy is to protect land that contributes to the landscape setting of the city and
improvements to Green Space Network land may enhance the landscape further. The provision of Green Space Network close
to where people live, offering opportunities for informal recreation and sustainable travel has positive impacts on human health.
NE2 Green Belt
+
+
+
+
+
+
++
-
0
+
Identifies the green belt and protects it against inappropriate development. Policy would have a positive affect by preventing
pollution in green belt areas, therefore contributing to a reduced vulnerability to climate change. The policy also protects the
surrounding landscape and setting and providing open space provision for people which has consequent health benefits.
Habitats are also protected. However the policy would restrict development in these areas, consequently reducing the amount of
land available for material assets. Effects on the population are insignificant because green belt boundaries are adjusted in
order to allow for the employment and housing requirements of the structure plan.
NE3 Urban
Green Space
Policy
+
0
0
+
+
0
+
0
0
+
The purpose of the Urban Green Space Policy is to protect green space in the urban area. It may have some positive impact on
air quality as green spaces can act as the ‘green lungs’ of urban areas, absorbing greenhouse gases and particles. The urban
green space policy should have a positive affect on biodiversity as the green space it protects can often be important habitats
for wildlife. The policy should have some positive impact on climate change as land protected as green space can help to
reduce flooding, reduce or mitigate some CO2 emissions and provide habitats. The policy helps to protect the landscape
setting of the city. Human health will be positively impacted on by this policy through providing facilities for active recreation as
well as mental health benefits that are derived from green space.
NE5 Trees and
Woodland
++
+
+
+
+
0
+
0
0
+
The policy aims to protect and enhance Aberdeen’s trees and woodlands with the aim of doubling the existing tree cover of the
City. The policy would have a positive affect on the receptors by improving air quality in the city, helping to prevent soil
disturbance and avert the likelihood of flooding. The policy also provides habitats for wildlife and provides open space which will
positively impact on human health and the landscape.
71
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
NE6 Flooding
and Drainage
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
This policy can have a direct significant positive affect on biodiversity, water and soil through the proper control of drainage and
flooding. Water quality will be improved where runoff from new builds avoid water bodies. The provision of SUDS can also be
beneficial to biodiversity in terms of reducing volume and rate of runoff and in design. This will also have indirect significant
positive affects on air and climatic factors. These effects are likely to be medium to long term and both temporary and
permanent. Direct significant negative affects will be seen on biodiversity, water and soil where flood defences are provided in
areas where there are less than significant damaging affects on natural heritage. This is due to the development of hard
infrastructures and the loss of natural flooding which is a natural environmental process within an ecosystem. This will also
have an indirect significant negative affect on air and climatic factors as a result of negative impacts to biodiversity, soil and
water. These effects are likely to be long term and permanent. As well as the indirect significant positive and negative affects
to climatic factors as a result of impacts to biodiversity, there are likely to be direct significant positive affects to climatic factors
given that the policy has to take account of climatic changes in terms of flood risk management. This, therefore, helps to deal
with the negative impacts of storms, tidal surges and rising sea levels. This effect will be medium term and temporary. Cultural
heritage can be protected through measures to address flooding, storms and sea level rises. This will have indirect significant
positive affects. However, there is potential for flood defences to have direct significant negative affect on cultural heritage that
is situated on or near such a site. These effects are likely to be long term and permanent. Landscapes may be protected from
measures to address effects from flooding and could even be enhanced through sympathetic steps such as SUDS that benefit
the natural environment and providing a scenic aspect for people. This would be indirect significant positive affects. However,
measures such as flood defences could have a direct significant negative affect on the scenery and an area that is seen as a
sense of place. This would be long term and permanent. Material assets such as buildings and other hard infrastructures
would be protected from flooding and runoff. These significant positive affects would be direct, long term and permanent. This
policy would have indirect significant positive affects on population through the provision of housing with infrastructure to
address flood risk and drainage issues, plus, the protection of existing housing already occupied and associated infrastructure.
These impacts will be long term and permanent. For human health, new development would be built in areas that would have
low flood risk measures to address climactic factors and drainage issues. Negative issues such as smell and runoff in new
builds will be addressed in this policy, and such measures which can enhance the natural heritage and open space available,
will enhance the quality of life for the population. Mental wellbeing would also be enhanced where existing developments are
protected from flooding and other climatic factors. These indirect significant positive affects are likely to be long term and
permanent.
72
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
NE7 Coastal
Planning
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+/This
policy aims to balance the need to identify sites suitable for development which will contribute to economic growth, with the
need to avoid development at areas at risk of flooding or coastal erosion, or damaging the character of the coast which is
important for natural heritage, open space, landscapes, culture and tourism. For sites identified as suitable for development,
there will be a direct significant negative affect on biodiversity, water, soil and landscape. There will also be indirect significant
negative affects on air and climatic factors. This will be long term and permanent. At the same time, sites identified as areas
subject to significant constraints will have some protection from development which means that the policy will have some direct
significant positive affects on biodiversity, water, soil and landscape. There will also be some indirect significant positive affects
on air and climatic factors. These effects could be short to medium term and temporary as a result of other Council policies
including further policies within this plan, plus, development directly adjacent to sites with constraints. There will be direct
significant positive and negative affects on cultural heritage. This policy specifically mentions the importance of cultural heritage
at the coast and these sites will be protected particularly in areas subject to significant constraints. However, some cultural
heritage sites may have some direct significant negative affects as a result of development at or nearby such sites. There may
be direct significant positive and negative affects on material assets. Material assets such as commercial or industrial buildings
can be created in areas suitable for development. These effects will be long term and permanent. There may, however, be
restrictions on the creation of material assets in areas subject to significant constraints. This effect may be short or medium
term and temporary as a result of other policies. The effects on population are expected to be direct and indirect significant
positive affects as a result of new development which will focus on economic growth, plus, protecting natural areas for natural
heritage, open space, culture and tourism which will make the coast attractive for people to work and visit. The loss of
biodiversity and associated negative affects on soil, water, air and climatic factors as a result of development will have an
indirect significant negative affect on human health, however, economic growth as a result of development and tourism, plus,
the protection of natural heritage, open space and cultural heritage will have an indirect significant positive affect on human
health. These effects may be medium and long term, plus, permanent as a result of other policies. There will, however, be
significant negative affects on any coastal site regardless of protection level where parts of the policy which allows development
to occur if there are no other suitable sites and respects the environment, are exercised.
73
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
NE8 Natural
Heritage
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
?
+/This
policy aims to have a positive affect on natural heritage through the protection of designated sites and protected species,
the need for green networks, plus, consideration of the protection of the wider environment and the precautionary principle.
Through the protection of natural heritage, this policy has a direct significant positive affect on biodiversity which in turn has a
direct significant positive affect on water, soil and landscape. There are also indirect significant positive affects to air and
climatic factors. The protection of natural heritage also has a good effect on people’s physical and mental wellbeing and overall
quality of life; this policy, therefore, has an indirect significant positive affect on human health. Cultural heritage sites located on
designated sites can also be protected through this policy; there is an indirect positive affect on cultural heritage. However,
these effects may be negative in areas where there is little or no protection; the level of significant positive affects decreases as
the level of designation decreases from international to local with less protection to non-designated areas and non-priority
species. There will also be a significant negative affect on any protected site regardless of protection level where the part of the
policy which allows development to occur if there are no alternative solutions, overriding public interest, or public interest
outweighs the adverse effects, is exercised. Development that occurs in less protected areas or where the policy overrides the
environmental effects will have a significant direct and indirect negative affect which may be long term and permanent. While
natural heritage can attract people to an area other factors may influence demographics, for example the economy. Therefore,
the effects of this policy on the population are unknown. This effect is anticipated to be long term and permanent. The protection
of natural heritage can enhance the desirability of material assets, but the protection of sites for natural heritage purposes may
prevent the regeneration of material assets found on or near protected sites. The significant effects on material assets are,
therefore, both positive and negative. The regeneration of material assets may be short term and temporary where there are
protected species found and subsequent mitigation measures put in place.
NE9 Access and
Informal
Recreation
0
0
0
+/-
+
+/-
0
0
0
+
The Access and Informal Recreation policy aims to protect and enhance opportunities for informal recreation, such as walking,
cycling, horse riding and non-motorised water sports. The policy may have some positive impacts on biodiversity by enhancing
access to nature, and therefore encouraging people to appreciate and care for it. The policy could also have some negative
impacts on biodiversity as a result of disturbance by people, dogs or construction of paths. This should be avoided through
proper planning and mitigation however. There could be some positive impacts on climate factors through achieving some
modal shift by facilitating and promoting active and sustainable travel and an integrated transport system. Cultural heritage
assets must be identified and taken into consideration in the construction of new paths, and could be promoted as part of the
policy. The provision of access opportunities close to where people live has positive impacts on human health.
NE4 Open
Space Provision
in Residential
Development
0
0
0
+/-
+/-
+/-
0
+
0
+
The purpose of this policy is to provide minimum standards for the quantity, quality and accessibility of open space to be
provided as part of new residential development. The provision of new open space could involve enhancement of habitats and
therefore positive impacts on biodiversity although there may be some negative impacts on habitats in other situations. The
policy may offer opportunities to protect and promote cultural heritage. There would be positive affects on material assets and
human health through an increase in the number of sports pitches, playing fields, play spaces and opportunities for physical
activity.
SG on
Sustainable
Urban Drainage
Systems
(SUDS)
0
++
+
++
++
0
+
0
0
0
Provides guidance on the provision and maintenance of SUDS. These are designed to capture and slow surface water run off
which in turn prevents flash flooding. This will have positive impacts on issues such as water quality and climatic factors such as
flood prevention. Soil erosion should also be reduced. The use of soft landscaping and ponds could also have positive impacts
on biodiversity and the landscape.
74
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
SG on Drainage
Impact
Assessments
0
++
+
++
++
0
+
0
0
0
The impacts of this supplementary guidance are likely to be similar to those of the guidance on SUDS which is why the scores
are the same
SG Open Space
0
0
0
+/-
+/-
+/-
0
+
0
+
An SEA is being carried out on the Open Space Strategy and this will be used to inform this supplementary guidance on open
space. The purpose of this policy is to provide minimum standards for the quantity, quality and accessibility of open space to be
provided as part of new residential development. The provision of new open space could involve enhancement of habitats and
therefore positive impacts on biodiversity although there may be some negative impacts on habitats in other situations. The
policy may offer opportunities to protect and promote cultural heritage. There would be positive affects on material assets and
human health through an increase in the number of sports pitches, playing fields, play spaces and opportunities for physical
activity.
SG Protecting
Trees and
Woodland
++
+
+
+
+
0
+
0
0
+
The policy aims to protect and enhance Aberdeen’s trees and woodlands with the aim of doubling the existing tree cover of the
City. The policy would have a positive affect on the receptors by improving air quality in the city, helping to prevent soil
disturbance and avert the likelihood of flooding. The policy also provides habitats for wildlife and provides open space which will
positively impact on human health and the landscape.
SG Natural
Heritage
+
+
+
+
+
0
+
0
0
+
This Supplementary Guidance (SG) supports the Natural Heritage policy NE7 by providing further general information on natural
heritage topics that are relevant to the policy. The SG provides an indirect significant positive affect on biodiversity, air, water,
soil, climatic factors, landscape and human health through the description of the legislation that has been designed to protect
designated sites and protected species, plus the wider natural environment. Included are an explanation of the ‘precautionary
principle’ and a list of the priority sites and species found within Aberdeen City which also has an indirect significant positive
affect on biodiversity, air, water, soil, climatic factors, landscape and human health. Given that this is guidance to support a
policy, this SG has no significant effects on cultural heritage, material assets or population. The guidance could change based
on updated legislation, policy etc, therefore, all effects are anticipated to be short to medium term to temporary.
SG Buffer Strips
+
++
+
+
+
+
+
+
0
+
This Supplementary Guidance (SG) supports the Natural Heritage policy NE7 by providing specific guidance on buffer strips
around all water bodies. This SG has direct significant positive affects on water, soil and biodiversity, as buffer strips provide a
natural protection from development on all water bodies. There may also be direct significant positive affects on cultural
heritage and material assets that could be protected from unnatural flooding through the implementation of buffer strips.
Landscape could also be enhanced through the implementation of natural buffer strips. There will also be indirect significant
positive affects on air, climatic factors, and human health. It is anticipated that there will no significant effects on population.
The effects may last the time the associated policy is in existence and possibly beyond, therefore, all effects are anticipated to
be medium to long term and temporary to permanent.
SG Bats and
Development
0
0
0
+
0
+
+
+/-
0
0
This Supplementary Guidance (SG) supports the Natural Heritage policy NE7 by providing specific guidance on bats when
dealing with a planning application. This SG has direct significant positive affects on biodiversity. Given that bats are part of a
wider ecosystem. There may be direct significant positive affects on cultural heritage and landscape – the protection of bats
may indirectly protect cultural heritage sites where bats may exist plus existing landscapes from new development. Like cultural
heritage, some material assets may indirectly receive protection (indirect significant positive affects) through the direct
protection of bats that exist in such material assets. However, the presence of bats may stop development in some material
assets resulting in indirect significant negative affects. There is clear legislation to protect bats, however, there may be
overriding reasons for development to progress, therefore, and the effects are anticipated to be short, medium and long term,
plus, temporary and permanent.
75
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Transport and Accessibility
T1 Land For
Transport
+/-
-
-
-
+/-
0
-
++
++
+
This policy identifies land that is safeguarded for existing and future transport proposals. This policy protects these areas of
land from any development that is unacceptable. The sites safeguarded are identified in the policy and are also assessed
cumulatively here. These are large transport proposals which are likely to contribute to an increase in traffic in some cases but
also a reduction in congestion, which is why there are likely to be positive and negative impacts on climate change and air
quality. These large development projects are likely to have negative impacts on water, soil and biodiversity. They will be highly
visible from nearby areas and by the users of them – hence the negative landscape impact. This policy has a significant
positive affect as it safeguards land for future uses such as Park & Ride sites, which are material assets for the City and which
enable the use of sustainable modes of travel. This in turn will help to support a thriving economy and population as a whole.
New schemes are likely to be designed with the latest safety standards in mind and positively impact in health.
T2 Managing
the Transport
Impact of
Development
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
Provides the policy framework for minimising the impact of development on the transport network and encouraging sustainable
and active travel as viable alternatives to the car. Sets requirements for Travel Plans and Transport Assessments as well as
maximum car parking standards. This policy has a positive affect on air, climatic factors and human health by promoting
walking and cycling and sustainable public transport over car/other motorised vehicle use, a reduction in motorised vehicle use
leads to less congestion and improved local air quality. This policy also sets requirements for mitigation measures that must be
carried out by developers to minimise any adverse impacts on the traffic network.
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Standards for
Accessibility and
Public Transport
Services
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sets requirements for the minimum distances to services and facilities from new developments. The ability to access key
services and facilities directly affects quality of life and is a major contributor to social inclusion. This policy ensures that new
and existing communities can access services, facilities and jobs by walking, cycling and public transport. This policy is not
considered to have any significant impact on the environment.
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Access and
Permeability
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy sets requirements for new development to protect or enhance existing access rights including core paths, rights of
way and paths within the wider network. This policy has a positive affect on air, climatic factors and human health by promoting
walking and cycling and sustainable public transport over car/other motorised vehicle use, a reduction in motorised vehicle use
leads to less congestion and improved local air quality. This policy also encourages active travel within communities helping to
tackle obesity and improve human health.
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Guidelines and
Specifications
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
This guidance will set the appropriate design standards for roads and streets, and will positively affect the road and street
patterns to allow people to move around the city effectively. It will provide pedestrian priority in more residential areas and will
positively impact on population, material assets and human health. The guidance does not promote development and all other
indicators are neutral.
76
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Transport
Assessments
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that all significant traffic generating developments must submit a Transport Assessment (TA) when planning
permission is requested. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as TA’s promote transport choice
over car-dependency. TAs also have a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as walking
and cycling.
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Travel Plans
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that all proposals for development over a certain threshold submit a Travel Plan when planning permission
is requested. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as Travel Plans promote transport choice over
car-dependency. Travel Plans also have a positive affect on human health by promoting other more active transport choices
such as walking and cycling.
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Parking
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy sets out ACC’s maximum car parking standards for across the city as well as setting out guidelines on low or no car
housing and car clubs. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport
choice over car-dependency. The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such
as walking and cycling.
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Driveways
Guide
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy requires that all applications for new driveways and parking within gardens conform to ACC’s requirements. This
policy restricts the amount of new driveways and car parking in front gardens to those that ACC’s sees as suitable. This has a
positive affect on road maintenance as roads with fewer driveways are more viable.
SG Transport
and
Accessibility
Automatic Teller
Machines
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
This policy ensures that new ATM’s (cash machines) are sited in suitable locations that do not obstruct pedestrian movements
or lead to road safety problems. This policy has a positive affect on material assets and human health as it helps to ensure that
new ATM’s are provided for people across the city in safe and appropriate locations.
Air Quality
AQ1 Air Quality
++
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
Resists proposals that result in deterioration in air quality unless appropriate mitigation measures are implemented. Also sets
out criteria for when Air Quality Assessments will be required to be provided through the planning application process. This
policy has a positive impact on air quality as its main aim is to enhance the existing air quality situation across the city and within
the three declared Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs). This policy also has a positive impact on climatic factors and
human health through the promotion of improved air quality across the city.
SG Air Quality
++
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
Sets out criteria for when Air Quality Assessments will be required to be provided through the planning application process.
This policy has a positive impact on air quality as its main aim is to enhance the existing air quality situation across the city and
within the three declared Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs). This policy also has a positive impact on climatic factors and
human health through the promotion of improved air quality across the city.
Business and Industrial Development
77
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
BI1 Business
and Industrial
Land
--
--
--
--
--
++/--
--
++
++
++
This policy identifies areas of business and industrial land and supports the development of these sites for this use. It also
safeguards them against development of other uses. This policy has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes and
safeguards areas of employment. Development is likely to increase traffic into the built up area and impact negatively on air
quality and specifically on Air Quality Management Areas. Development is likely to have short-term adverse effects soil through
soil erosion, desegregation, compaction and pollution during construction phases. Development could potentially have shortterm
negative impacts on water through a change in water table, stream flows, site water budgets, localised flooding, silt
deposition and water-borne pollution. Inevitably, some localised impacts on watercourses would occur due to the development.
Greenfield development is likely to impact negatively on biodiversity through the loss of habitats, habitat fragmentation or
disturbance to species that use the site as a habitat. The scale of development that could be accommodated on sites could
have a negative impact on climate due to increased use of resources and increased emissions. Development would impact
positively on population and material assets, in the provision of employment sites and jobs to support the economy. Greenfield
development is likely to have a negative impact on landscape. These effects may weaken the sense of place, the identity of
existing settlements and landscape character in places. Depending on implementation strategies, employment development
proposed on reenfield sites could positively or adversely affect the built features, their context, pattern of past historic use, and
associations of the historic environment, which encompasses built heritage features (ancient monuments, archaeological sites
and landscapes, historic buildings, townscapes, parks, gardens and designed landscapes, as well as marine heritage) and the
context or setting in which they sit, and the patterns of past use, in landscapes and within the soil, and also in our towns,
villages and streets. The planning and design of developments, which conforms, substantially to the City’s existing design,
layout, material and quality is likely to have long-term positive affects. But new developments that deviate from existing designs
could adversely affect the setting of historic settlements in the long-term. New employment development provides the scope for
creation of fixed assets, the use of natural and material assets, promoting waste minimisation, recycling and composting.
BI2 Specialist
Employment
Area
--
--
--
--
--
++/--
--
++
++
++
This policy identifies areas of specialist employment and safeguards them against development of other uses. This policy is
likely to have similar impacts to policy BI1.
78
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
BI3 West End
Office Area
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
This policy identifies the West End Office Area and favours change of use to office purposes and residential use in this area.
Further employment development in this location is likely to increase traffic in a built up area and impact negatively on air quality
and specifically on the Anderson Drive Air Quality Management Area, but location of brownfield opportunities are close to
existing services and facilities and promotes walking and cycling. New development on undeveloped sites may have short-term
adverse effects on soil through soil erosion, desegregation, compaction and pollution during construction phases, but
development will be required to remediate any contaminated land. Development could potentially have short-term negative
impacts on water through a change in water table, stream flows, site water budgets, localised flooding, silt deposition and waterborne
pollution. Inevitably, some localised impacts on watercourses would occur due to the development. This policy supports
development of offices in a built up area and the impact on biodiversity will be neutral. Developments in this area may have a
negative impact on climate due to increased use of resources and increased emissions. Development will provide business and
housing to support the population and economy and will have positive affects on population and material assets. Any residential
development is likely to have long-term positive affects on human health. Provision of new housing in conformity with new
building standards can enhance good health and social justice for people with no access to housing now gaining access to
housing. Since new homes are more energy efficient than the existing stock; they reduce running costs and assist in decreasing
fuel poverty. While development of brownfield site has a scope for enhancement of landscapes, development may also restrict
some views. These effects may weaken the sense of place, the identity of existing settlements and landscape character in
places. Depending on implementation strategies, development in this conservation area could positively or adversely affect the
built features, their context, pattern of past historic use, and associations of the historic environment. The planning and design of
developments, which conforms, substantially to the City’s existing design, layout, material and quality is likely to have long-term
positive affects. But new developments that deviate from existing designs could adversely affect the setting of historic
settlements in the long-term. New development provides the scope for creation of fixed assets, the use of natural and material
assets, promoting waste minimisation, recycling and composting.
BI4 Aberdeen
Airport and
Aberdeen
Harbour
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
Identifies Public Safety Zones around Aberdeen Airport. Policy favours development within the operational land of the Airport
and Harbour that has associated uses with the airport and harbour. This policy has a positive affect on Aberdeen’s material
assets as it protects the Airport and the Harbour from inappropriate development. This policy protects health by setting out a
public safety zone around the Airport.
BI5 Pipelines
and Controls of
Major Accident
Hazards
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
++
This policy states that ACC will take full account of advice from the Health and Safety Executive when determining all
applications for development within consultation distances of hazardous installations. This policy has a positive affect by
ensuring that no development takes place that will be likely to negatively impact on human health.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
79
Appendix 7.c: Assessment of Main Issues Report Policy Alternatives
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
1. Transport and Accessibility
Preferred Options
1.1 Promote detailed impact analysis
using Part B of the Transport
Framework
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
++
+
+
Significant positive impact on material assets as development will deliver key infrastructure to help deliver
a more sustainable transport system in Aberdeen
1.2 Use masterplans to incorporate
infrastructure for sustainable modes
and detailed design
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
++
+
+
Significant positive impact on material assets as masterplans can help to deliver key infrastructure to help
deliver a more sustainable transport system in Aberdeen, and ensure facilities are in the most accessible
locations.
1.3 Promote location of new
development near infrastructure and
services using Accession Software
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
+
+
It would have a positive affect on air quality and climate change as it promotes accessibility and transport
choice over car-dependency. It also has a positive affect on human health and material assets by
promoting other transport choices such as walking and cycling through the introduction of new paths. All
ages of the population would benefit from this option as it promotes more accessible services.
1.4 Minimise traffic generation and
impacts by using Transport
Assessments and Travel Plans
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
+
+
+
Impacts from new developments are minimised and were there are impacts mitigation measures can be
incorporated into the development
Alternative Option
1.5 Incremental assessment of sites
on a case by case basis
-
0
0
0
-
0
0
0
-
The alternative option relies on looking at sites individually. This may not address cumulative impacts and
may result in the approval of car-based development and increased travel demand which would have a
negative affect on air, climate, human health and all age groups of the population.
2. Infrastructure and Developer Contributions
Preferred Option
2.1 Providing clarity for developers
through supplementary guidance on
developers contribution regarding
their obligations
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
++
+
0
The preferred option is to provide supplementary guidance on developer contributions. This would provide
a clear and concise guide to the contributions that each developer will be expected to pay to support new
development. Providing guidance would have a positive affect on a range of receptors. It would have a
positive affect on material assets and population as the supplementary planning guidance would provide
for new and improved infrastructure as well as likely improve the supple of housing – such as affordable
housing.
Alternative Option
2.2 Continue with the status quo
without providing clarity for
developers through supplementary
guidance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
--
-
0
The alternative option is to proceed with the current system which may cause delays in the negotiation and
procurement of developer contributions. This would have negative impacts on two receptors. In contrast
to the previous option this would result in delays and difficulty in receiving developer contributions, which in
turn would mean that key infrastructure that is needed to allow development to occur would be missing,
negatively impacting on the economy.
3. The City Centre and Retailing
80
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Preferred Option
3.1 Continue with the status quo of
enhancing vitality and viability of the
city centre
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0/+
0
It would have a positive affect on material assets as it would promote the creation of more retail and
business uses.
3.2 Provide clarity on the role of
primary and secondary shopping
areas as contributing to vitality and
viability
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0/+
0
Help to regenerate derelict or vacant land within the city centre. This in turn would positively affect cultural
heritage and townscape.
Alternative Option
3.3 Adopt an ad-hoc, piecemeal
approach to city centre development
whenever the need arises
0
0
0
0
0
0
-
+
0
0
It will positively impact on material assets as it will promote development in the city centre. It will negatively
affect the city’s townscape as development will not be related and will look piecemeal.
4. Housing
Preferred Option
4.1 Promote a mix of uses in new
residential areas
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
+
+
+
It would have positive affects across a range of receptors. Residential mixed use areas would be less cardependent
and therefore lessen their impact on climate change. Mixed use areas provide fixed assets for
wealth creation (shops, offices). Nearby services and facilities would benefit less mobile residents (such as
younger and older people). Walkable neighbourhoods also bring health benefits.
4.2 Provide guidance on the
appropriate mix of new developments
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0 The alternative option relies on establishing good working relationships with developers during the
masterplanning stage to deliver mixed use. This reliance introduces uncertainty into how effective such a
policy would be in delivering mixed use. Appropriate mix of house types and tenures will help provide the
types of housing required.
4.4 Provide for a range of house
types in new developments by using
density policies or SPG
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
++
+
May result in new developments becoming more visually interesting, and less monotonous, though the
overall design will have more of an impact. Will cater for the diverse needs of a range of households,
thereby supporting population growth. More appropriate forms of housing will raise households’ health and
well being.
Alternative Option
4.3 Continue with the status quo by
not providing guidance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
No impact on receptors resulting from this option.
4.5 Continue with the status quo on
density by not providing guidance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
The alternative option relies on the masterplanning of sites to determine the appropriate mix of house
types. The policy is likely to have some success in introducing a mixture of house types, but without being
informed by the Local Housing Strategy, the mix delivered may not respond to the city’s needs.
5. Design
Preferred Option
81
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
5.1 Promote architecture and placemaking
policy that respects context;
provides a sense of place and
promotes sustainability
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
+
+
Good design leads to a good quality of life and can attract people and businesses to Aberdeen. This option
may lead to an enhancement and improvement of Aberdeen’s unique character, ensure more sustainable
neighbourhoods are built that are non car dependent, and ensure that new housing developments
integrate with the local identity, context and settlement patterns.
5.2 Promote context, identity,
connection and communication
through masterplanning.
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
+
+
This option may lead to an enhancement and improvement of Aberdeen’s unique character, ensure more
sustainable neighbourhoods are built that are non car dependent, and ensure that new housing
developments integrate with the local identity, context and settlement patterns.
5.3 Distinguish between road and
street; and promote street frontages,
activity, safe and walkable
neighbourhood
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
+
+
It would have a positive affect on air quality and climate change as it promotes accessibility and transport
choice over car-dependency. It also has a positive affect on human health and material assets by
promoting other transport choices such as walking and cycling through the introduction of new paths. All
ages of the population would benefit from this option as it promotes more accessible services.
5.4 Promote good housing design to
make them more distinctive, safe,
easy to move around and adaptable
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
Increased safety would impact positively on population and human health.
5.5 Protect the townscape by
controlling tall buildings and
developments affect the skyline
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
-
0
0
This would have a positive impact on cultural heritage and landscape. There may be negative impacts on
material assets if a restrictive policy prevents some developments taking place.
5.6 Improving designs through the
use of design statements
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
+
+
This option may lead to an enhancement and improvement of Aberdeen’s unique character, ensure more
sustainable neighbourhoods are built that are non car dependent, and ensure that new housing
developments integrate with the local identity, context and settlement patterns.
5.7 Promoting best practice by
working with our neighbouring
authority on design panels
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
+
+
This option may lead to an enhancement and improvement of Aberdeen’s unique character, ensure more
sustainable neighbourhoods are built that are non car dependent, and ensure that new housing
developments integrate with the local identity, context and settlement patterns.
Alternative Option
5.8 Continue with the status quo
based on a piecemeal approach in
respect of design
0
0
0
0
-
-
-
+
+
0
This approach could result in developments that are not integrated with the surrounding context or identity
and that are alien to existing settlements. It could also lead to a lack of co-ordination and result in
potentially inconsistent decisions.
5.9 Promoting a highly prescriptive
approach to design by using design
coding
0
0
0
0
+
+
-
-
+
+
This approach is inflexible, time consuming and will not allow developments to integrate to their
surroundings to the same degree as the preferred option.
6. Waste
Preferred Option
82
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
6.1 Locate new waste management
facilities at Altens East/Doonies
-
0
+
-
+
-
0/-
++
+
0
This option will help to increase the amount of waste that is recycled or reused and this will reduce the
amount of waste being sent to landfill. New waste facilities are likely to have minimal impact on the
landscape, low building height. Large number of HGV used to transport waste to new facilities. Increased
levels of dust, odour, and noise may have a local air quality impact. Well run and controlled new facilities
should have no significant impact on the water environment or human health.
6.2 Incorporate waste management
storage areas and recycling facilities
into new developments
0
0
+
0
+
0
0
++
+
0
This option will help to increase the amount of waste that is recycled or reused and this will reduce the
amount of waste being sent to landfill. Well designed facilities should have no impact on health.
Alternative Option
6.3 Continue with the status quo with
increasing landfill use
--
--
--
-/+
--
--
--
0
-
--
Landfill gas is mainly made up of methane, which is approximately 25 times more powerful a greenhouse
gas than carbon dioxide. Landfill sites can have significant impacts on the landscape, and any
archaeological remains on site could be sterilised. Dust and odour can have significant impact on human
health.
7. Sustainable Construction
Preferred Option
7.1 Constantly raise the standards of
energy efficiency through sustainable
building standards
+
++
0
+
+
0
0
+
0
+
The energy and travel criteria seek to reduce developments’ dependency on the national grid (which
currently relies heavily on fossil fuel supplies) and private cars. Both will result in developments
contributing less to climate change and the latter reduces developments’ impact on air pollution. All
developments are to incorporate water-saving technology. The ecology criteria require biodiversity
enhancements. Developments meeting the standards will be cheaper to maintain. Such developments will
allow people to live more sustainable lifestyles.
7.2 Reducing carbon emissions by
developing a city-wide low carbon
strategy
+
++
0
+
+
0
0
++
0
+
Reduce carbon emissions and help to progress the implementation of renewable technologies.
7.3 Continue with the limited councilwide
carbon management
programme
+
++
0
+
+
0
0
+
0
+
Improving the efficiency of council owned properties and sets an example to private developers and
developments can be used as case studies.
7.4 Promote best practice in
sustainable building standards
through the Council’s owns initiatives
+
++
0
+
+
0
0
+
0
+
Improving the efficiency of council owned properties and sets an example to private developers.
Developments can be used as case studies.
7.5 Encourage higher city-wide
standards in efficiency through
awards and accreditation schemes
+
++
0
+
+
0
0
+
0
+
Would help to drive up the efficiency of new developments, and sets an example to developers.
Developments can be used as case studies.
Alternative Option
83
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
7.6 Delay the requirements for higher
building standards
+
++
0
0
+
0
0
+
0
0
The energy criteria will still reduce developments’ dependency on the national grid, but not car
dependency. The water criteria will still require all developments to incorporate water-saving technology.
The developments would also be cheaper to maintain than without. But ecological impacts and life cycle
costing are not taken into account during the plan period.
7.7 Provide a level playing fields for
developers in the City and the Shire
in building standards in order to avoid
unfair advantage in one authority
area over the other
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
There would be no direct impact on receptors from this option. This would just ensure that a single
standard was applied across the region.
84
Appendix 7.d: Assessment of Existing Local Plan Policies
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 1 Design
0
0
0
0
0
++
++
+
0
0
Requires that the appearance of new buildings is appropriate to their context and setting. The policy will make sure new
buildings respect existing cultural heritage and landscape/townscape and raise the standards for new building design,
thereby creating material assets.
Policy 2 Landscape
Design
0
+
+
+
+
+
++
+
0
+
Ensures landscape schemes are compatible with the scale and character of the development, as required by the
Landscape Guidelines (Landscape Strategy Part 2). The Landscape Guidelines describe how developments can have
positive affects on the areas in which they sit, are more sustainable, and have respect for the wider environment.
Policy 3 Brownfield
Development
0
0
+
0
+
+
+/-
++
+
+
Encourages development on brownfield sites. Brownfield development will have positive affects on receptors such as
potential to clear up contaminated sites and support regeneration, but may alter the appearance of townscapes.
Policy 4 Protection of
Urban Green Space
0
+
0
++
0
+
+
0
0
++
Seeks to protect valuable green space adjacent to existing buildings.
The protection of green space has positive affects on receptors such as sustainable urban drainage, the setting of
buildings and designed landscapes, as well as access to open space.
Policy 5 Design and
Context
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
++
Requires brownfield developments to be laid out and integrated into existing streets, and to retain and convert existing
buildings where possible. This policy would have positive affects on receptors by making the urban environment more
people friendly, reusing old buildings which contribute to the character of the area.
Policy 6 Design and
Amenity
0
0
0
+
0
0
+
+
+
++
Requires new residential development proposals to meet certain design and amenity requirements. These requirements
would have positive affects by creating new and greener streets, raising the standards of new building design, and
thereby creating material assets. Requiring a range of sizes and types of accommodation caters for an ageing
population.
Policy 7 Crime
Prevention and
Community Safety
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
++
Requires development proposals to design out crime and design in safety.
Protects new buildings from antisocial behaviour. Policy would have positive affects through making housing more
attractive, regardless of location and increasing community safety.
Policy 8 Design and
Policy Guidance
+
+
+
++
++
++
++
++
+
+
Lists the supplementary guidance to be referred to in relevant development proposals. Policy would have positive affects
through guidance on transport, drainage impact assessment, nature conservation, design and conservation, landscape,
housing and open space.
Policy 9
Telecommunications
Apparatus
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+/-
0
0
Seeks to ensure that the installation of such apparatus does not have an adverse visual impact on the natural or built
heritage of the City. Policy would have positive affects, through protecting the architectural character of historic buildings,
the coast, countryside and townscape from adverse impact. But, the policy may restrict the city’s connectivity by not
allowing apparatus in optimum locations.
Policy 10 New Uses for
Listed Buildings
0
0
0
0
0
++
+
++
+
+
Allows for the sensitive conversion of listed buildings. Policy would have positive affects through better maintenance of
historically valuable buildings and townscape, reuse of derelict buildings/land, increasing the supply of housing through
conversion and improving the overall environment.
Policy 11 Signage on
originally residential
listed buildings
0
0
0
0
0
++
+
0
0
0
Requires business plates on originally residential listed buildings to be a particular size. Policy would have positive
affects through retaining the character of the residential use of the building and townscape.
85
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 12 Building on
rear lanes
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
0
0
Encourages sensitive conversion of buildings in rear lanes. Policy would have positive affects through retaining the
character of rear lanes and the townscape.
Policy 13 Retention of
Granite Buildings
0
0
0
0
0
++
+
0
0
0
Encourages the retention of granite buildings and reclaimed materials. Policy would have positive affects through
retaining the character of conservation areas and the townscape.
Policy 14 Granite
Streets and Pavements
0
0
0
0
0
++
++
0
0
0
Seeks to retain granite streets and pavements, particularly in the city centre. Policy would have positive affects through
retaining the character of city streets.
Policy 15 Stone
Cleaning
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
0
0
Seeks to ensure that stonework is not cleaned using abrasive chemical or high pressure water methods. Policy would
have positive affects through retaining the character of granite buildings and streetscapes.
Policy 16 Archaeology
and Planning
0
0
0
0
0
++
+
0
0
0
Seeks to protect Scheduled Ancient Monuments and their setting, and any archaeological remains from development.
Policy would have positive affects on some receptors, through protecting historical sites and their settings.
Policy 17 Mineral
Extraction
-
-
-
-
0
0
-
+
0
0
Specifies acceptable locations for Mineral Extraction and land restoration activities.
Policy would have a positive affect in increasing scope for creating fixed assets, but such activities also have the
potential to produce dust, contaminate soil and water, destroy habitats, and have an adverse impact on landscape.
Policy 18 Degraded
and Contaminated
Land
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
++
+
+
Ensures that degraded and contaminated land is either restored, reclaimed or remediated. Positive affect on air and
water pollution from contaminated land, improving contaminated and degraded soils, naturalising sites, reducing
methane emissions from contaminated land, improving the setting of buildings, landscape/ townscape improvements,
regeneration of derelict land. It could also contribute to land supply for housing and improve access to safe and attractive
open space.
Policy 19 Waste
Management Facilities
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
Policy seeks to provide waste facilities in an environmentally friendly way. While, some methods of waste management
like landfill will have negative affects on receptors, others like recycling will have positive affects on receptors.
Policy 20 Waste
Facilities in New
Development
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+
0
+
+
+
+
Policy requires new developments to have adequate facilities for the segregation of waste at source. Policy would have a
positive affect through less waste being sent to landfill, resulting in less land take, pollution and demands on existing
infrastructure. Provision of facilities for sorting and storage at source promotes more sustainable lifestyles, but may result
in local pollution.
Policy 21 Landfill and
Land Raise
-
-
--
-
-
0
-
0
0
+
Specifies acceptable locations for Landfill and Land Raise.
Policy would have a positive affect in maintaining public health, but such activities also have the potential to produce
dust, smells, methane, contaminate soil and water, destroy habitats, and have an adverse impact on landscape.
Policy 22 Energy and
Development
0
0
0
-
++
0
-
+
+
0
Specifies acceptable locations for renewable energy developments.
Policy would have a positive affect in increasing scope for creating fixed assets, combating climate change and
increasing energy security, but such activities also have the potential to disturb habitats and have an adverse impact on
landscape. Future generations stand to benefit most from investments in low carbon energy generation.
86
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 23 Eco
Development
+
+
+
0
+
-
+/-
++
+
+
Encourages sustainable construction in new developments.
Reductions in waste sent to land fill will reduce pollution (including methane) and land take and reductions in water and
energy usage will also reduce pollution. Setting higher building standards increases the scope for creating fixed assets
that serve a wide range of people and promotes more sustainable lifestyles. Low and zero carbon technologies may
adversely affect the character of historic buildings and townscapes.
Policy 24 Planning and
Flooding
0
+
+
+
+
0
+
+
0
+
Seeks to ensure that the flood risk around developments is properly assessed and appropriate measures put in place.
Policy would have a positive affect by reducing the potential damage to hydromorphology, soil and natural heritage,
preventing developments that would be vulnerable to climatic changes and lead to changes in landscape character,
increasing access to watercourses and the provision of SUDS and flood defences. Plus, the policy would increase
mental well being by ensuring developments are not at significant risk of flooding.
Policy 25 Foul
Drainage
+
+
+
+
0
0
0
+
+
++
Ensures new developments are connected to the public sewer where possible.
Policy would have a positive affect on the receptors by reducing smells and run off from private septic tanks and
contributing to the maintenance of public sewers, which raise the capacity of the city to absorb more housing.
Policy 26 Coastal
Management
0
0
+
0
+
+
++
0
0
+
Identifies the areas and describes the types of development that will be acceptable at the coast. Policy would have a
positive affect by avoiding areas at risk of flooding or coastal erosion and protecting the character of the coast. The policy
also safeguards the coastline for recreation.
Policy 27 Air Quality
++
0
0
+
++
0
0
0
0
+
Ensure that new developments do not have adverse impacts on local air quality. Policy would have a positive affect by
preventing a rise in air pollution and further disturbance to wildlife. Safeguarding human health and climatic factors by
preventing significant changes in concentration of CO2 and Methane.
Policy 28 Green Belt
+
+
+
+
+
+
++
-
-
+
Identifies the green belt and protects it against unacceptable development.
Policy would have a positive affect by preventing pollution in green belt areas, therefore contributing to a reduced
vulnerability to climate change. The policy also protects the surrounding landscape and setting, providing open space
provision for people. However the policy would restrict development in these areas, consequently reducing the amount
of land available for fixed assets.
Policy 29 Green Space
Network
+
+
+
++
+
+
++
-
-
+
Identifies the green space network and protects it against unacceptable development, whilst aiming to enhance the value
of the green space network.
Policy would have a positive affect by preventing pollution in the green space network, therefore contributing to a
reduced vulnerability to climate change. The policy also protects wildlife habitats and species, and their surrounding
landscape and setting, providing open space provision for people. However the policy would restrict development in
these areas, consequently reducing the amount of land available for fixed assets.
Policy 30 Strategic
Housing Land Reserve
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
0
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/Shows
areas considered potentially suitable for development post 2010.
Whether or not this policy has a positive or negative affect is dependent on whether the Strategic Housing Land is
released for housing or designated for another land use. The land is protected from development under the greenbelt
policy until the development plan is reviewed.
Policy 31 Landscape
Protection
0
0
0
+
+
+
++
0
0
+
The policy protects Aberdeen’s landscape setting from unacceptable development. Policy would protect woodland and
wildlife, this in turn has a positive affect on the climate. The policy also provides protection to views of the city’s
townscape. Additionally the policy provides opportunities for countryside activities.
87
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 32 Historic
Gardens and Designed
Landscapes
0
0
0
0
0
++
++
+
0
+
Protects sites listed in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Aberdeen from the adverse effects of
development. This policy would have a positive affect on cultural heritage, landscape and human health by conserving
and enhancing essential characteristics, aesthetics, historic value and setting of the site.
Policy 33 Protecting
Trees and Woodlands
++
+
+
+
+
0
+
0
0
+
The policy aims to protect and enhance Aberdeen’s trees and woodlands with the aim of doubling the existing tree cover
of the City. Policy would have a positive affect on the receptors by improving air quality in the city, help to prevent soil
disturbance and avert the likelihood of flooding. The policy also provides habitats for wildlife and provides open space
provision.
Policy 34 Natural
Heritage
0
0
0
++
0
0
+
0
0
++
Identifies valuable designations and protects areas of International, National, Regional and Local designation from
development that would cause a significant adverse impact. This policy has a positive affect on biodiversity through
protection of areas of importance and significance. It also protects the landscapes that give Aberdeen its character and
provides open space provision for the people of the city.
Policy 35 Access and
Recreation Areas
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
+
Policy protects and enhances access to areas of informal recreation across the city. This policy has a positive affect on
landscape by protecting recreation areas from new development. This policy also has a positive affect on physical and
mental wellbeing by safeguarding and improving access to open space.
Policy 36 Urban Green
Space
+
+
+
++
+
+
++
-
-
+
Policy identifies areas designated as Urban Green Space. Protects and enhances green space in urban areas and sets
minimum standards for green space provision in new developments.
Policy would have a positive affect by preventing pollution in the urban green space, therefore contributing to a reduced
vulnerability to climate change. The policy also protects wildlife habitats and species, and their surrounding landscape
and setting, providing open space provision for people. However the policy would restrict development in these areas,
consequently reducing the amount of land available for fixed assets.
Policy 37 Sites for
Residential
Development
-
--
-
--
-
+/-
+/-
++
++
+
Policy allows for the release of allocated Greenfield housing sites.
Greenfield housing will increase land take, waste generation, water abstraction and habitat fragmentation and reduce
biodiversity. Policy creates material assets and housing for more people. Increased car use will negatively impact on air
quality in the city. Depending on the location, effects on landscape and cultural heritage could be positive or negative.
Policy 38 Sites
Safeguarded for
Residential
Development
-
--
-
--
-
+/-
+/-
++
++
+
Policy identifies sites that are safeguarded for residential development.
Greenfield housing will increase land take, waste generation, water abstraction and habitat fragmentation and reduce
biodiversity. Policy creates material assets and housing for more people. Increased car use will negatively impact on air
quality in the city. Depending on the location, effects on landscape and cultural heritage could be positive or negative.
Policy 39 Greenspace
Provision in Residential
Development
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
++
This policy requires the provision of 2.8 hectares per 1000 people of public green space on new residential development.
The policy would have a positive affect on landscape due to the provision of open space. There would also be positive
affects on material assets and human health through an increase in the number of sports pitches, playing fields, play
spaces etc.
Policy 40 Residential
Areas
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
Identifies areas of residential development and aims to make sure the character and amenity of such areas are retained.
The policy will have positive affects where it will support the development of fixed assets within the city. It may also
improve the supply of housing and help to cater for an ageing population. The policy also looks to protect open spaces,
woodland and recreational areas within residential areas and will therefore benefit the community.
88
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 41 Mixed Use
Areas
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
++
+
Policy allows for certain areas to be developed with a mix of uses and protects the mixed uses against the potential
negative affects of each other. The policy protects the existing use, character and townscape of an area – therefore
protecting the historic environment and setting. It improves the supply of housing through allowing housing development
in areas not traditionally housing, e.g. above shops in the city centre, and looks to protect against development that
would adversely affect the amenity of people living and working in a mixed use area.
Policy 42 Affordable
Housing
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
Policy states a figure that is expected for affordable housing from new developments.
The policy promotes the creation of fixed assets, improves the supply of housing, caters for an ageing population and
can help to improve social inclusion.
Policy 43 Mobile
Homes
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
Policy states that there will be a presumption against further development of mobile home sites, including intensification
of current sites. The policy will have a positive affect as mobile home sites can often be blight on the landscape,
therefore with no more then the landscape will not be further damaged. It will also have a positive affect with more
suitable housing types being built instead which are more suited to the climatic conditions of Aberdeen.
Policy 44 Housing and
Aberdeen Airport
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-
+
Policy identifies areas where residential development will not be permitted in relation to the Airport. The policy will have
a positive impact on human health as it stops development occurring where there are excess noise levels from the
airport which would be detrimental to residential amenity. However the policy would also stop the promotion of fixed
assets and prevent the improvement of the supply of housing.
Policy 45 Existing
Community Sites and
Facilities
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
Policy seeks to protect existing community sites and facilities for their original uses and allows for extension to such sites
if appropriate and in accordance with policy. The policy would have positive affects by making sure that the character
and vitality of an area was kept, the promotion of key fixed assets such as hospitals and schools and improve the wellbeing
of all age groups in the community.
Policy 46 New
Community Facilities
0
0
0
0
0
0
+/-
+
+
+
Supports new community facilities provided they are in convenient locations and are readily accessible to all. Can
improve brownfield land, whilst be detrimental to reenfield sites. The policy promotes the creation of fixed assets such
as hospitals or schools, and cause positive changes to the well-being of all age groups.
Policy 47 Private
Children’s Nurseries
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
0
The policy provides advice on where such developments would, and would not, be acceptable. The policy would have a
positive affect as proposals must not prejudice/damage other Local Plan policies – therefore including buildings of
historic value, benefit the townscape as the area will remain predominantly residential and promote fixed assets within
the city.
Policy 48 Sports
Facilities
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
+
The policy provides advice on where sports facilities would, and would not, be acceptable, and what criteria must be met
for such a facility to be acceptable. The policy would have a positive affect by making sure new sports facilities are not
detrimental to the natural or built environment or to residential amenity. The policy would also benefit the health and
wellbeing of people as it allows for sports facilities to be developed with good access to the public.
Policy 49 Regional
Centre
-
0
0
0
-
0
+
+
0
+
The policy seeks to promote the city centre as the first and main option for new retail, commercial, leisure and other city
centre based uses. Would result in more pollution problems with more people and traffic in the centre. The townscape
would be improved as new, well designed or refurbished buildings come into use, whilst more people and business in the
centre would help maintain infrastructure and possibly regenerate derelict or vacant land. The policy would also have a
positive affect on wellbeing as people would be happier living and working in a vibrant city centre.
89
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 50 City Centre
Business Zone
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
0
Policy protects the City Centre Business Zone against developments other than Class 1 with exceptions in some cases.
Policy could positively affect receptors by protecting buildings within a conservation area against constant changes of
use and therefore potential damage to the building, also by maintaining a sense of place by making sure that the city
centre business zone stays as what it currently is. The policy also positively promotes the creation of fixed assets – in
this case the business zone.
Policy 51 Major
Shopping
Developments in the
City Centre
-
0
0
0
0
+
+/-
++
+
0
Policy encourages retail developments to locate in the city centre and seeks to enhance its vitality, viability and
environmental quality.
Concentrating development in the city centre could negatively impact on air quality and climatic factors through traffic
generation. Policy would create jobs, protect and enhance townscape and create new assets and properties.
Policy 52 Union Street
– Changes of Use
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
0
Policy looks to protect premises that are currently used for retail and sets permissible occasions when a change may be
allowed. Policy could positively affect receptors by protecting buildings within a conservation area against constant
changes of use and therefore potential damage to the building, also by maintaining a sense of place by making sure that
Union Streets character is maintained. The policy also positively promotes the creation of fixed assets – in this case the
Union Street frontages and shopping area.
Policy 53 Chapel Street
Business Development
Area
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
0
This policy has been introduced to provide a focus for development of business within the Chapel Street area.
Policy could positively affect receptors by maintaining a sense of place by making sure that Chapel Street’s character is
maintained. The policy also positively promotes the creation of fixed assets – in this case the Chapel Street Business
Area.
Policy 54
Living/Working above
or below the business
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
0
This policy, on condition, favours proposals that will bring back into use parts of properties that are under-used, vacant or
sub-standard. This policy has a positive affect as it could potentially bring back into use historically important buildings
and help maintain a sense of Aberdeen. It also may promote the creation of fixed assets where affordable housing or the
promotion of sustainable materials could be used to restore such a property and therefore improve the overall supply of
housing.
Policy 55 Residential
Developments in the
City Centre
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
-
-
+
Policy looks to limit the number of residential developments within the City Centre to developments that will result in an
acceptable residential amenity. This policy has a positive affect by not allowing development near bad
neighbour/nuisance uses, this would improve the cities overall townscape. But the policy would restrict the development
of fixed assets and the improvement of housing supply.
Policy 56 The Location
of Licensed Premises
in the City Centre
0
0
0
0
0
+/-
+/-
+
0
+
Policy looks in regard to where, and where not, licensed premises can locate in the City Centre.
This policy has a positive affect by allowing premises to locate in the city centre or in a historic building; this may give a
frontage that has been empty for some time a revival and enhancement that was greatly needed. The policy may also
help maintain infrastructure through people going to an area and also be positive through regeneration of derelict or
vacant land. Lastly the policy improves social inclusion and prevents licensed premises from being located in residential
areas – which could damage amenity.
Policy 57 Street Cafes
0
0
0
0
0
+/-
+/-
0
0
+
The policy welcomes the Street Café ideal and cosmopolitan culture that comes with it, whilst setting some conditions to
control development. This policy allows people to enjoy the public realm and make the city more vibrant and it can lead
to the enhancement of the historic environment and townscape. But if the policy is not properly adhered to then
important areas and the townscape may become run-down.
90
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 58 Streets and
Spaces
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
+
The policy identifies principles that streets and spaces within the city should follow.
This policy has positive affects as it makes sure that streets and spaces are well designed, allowing people to enjoy the
public realm and make the city more vibrant, and leading to the enhancement of the historic environment and townscape.
Policy 59 Pedestrian
Priority in the City
Centre
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy supports pedestrian priority in the City including the proposal to introduce a pedestrian priority area in Union
Street. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes walking and transport
choice over car-dependency. The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices
such as walking and cycling.
Policy 60 Linkages
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that development that would affect certain routes within the City would be required to retain and
improve public access along them. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy
promotes transport choice over car-dependency. The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting
other transport choices such as walking and cycling.
Policy 61 Servicing
Arrangements
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that all development must include appropriate servicing arrangements for goods in and out, waste,
recycling, etc. This policy has a positive affect on human health by making sure that developments have adequate
arrangements in place to deal with waste hazards.
Policy 62 New
Superstore
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
+
0
+
This policy identifies site OP61 as a site for a potential new food superstore. This policy makes reference to any
development on this site requiring a transport assessment. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate
change as Tas promote transport choice over car-dependency. Tas also have a positive affect on human health by
promoting other transport choices such as walking and cycling. This policy has a positive affect on material assets as a
new food superstore would be a valuable asset in the City.
Policy 63 Convenience
Shopping
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
This policy states that a condition may be placed on all permissions for convenience shopping developments restricting
the amount of floorspace within the development that may be used for non-convenience goods. This policy is irrelevant
in this SEA consideration as it only refers to a condition that may be placed on planning permission.
Policy 64 District and
Neighbourhood
Centres
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy restricts proposals for changes of use from retail to non-retail within district and neighbourhood centres. This
policy has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes the retention of shops and businesses in these areas.
Policy 65a Sequential
Approach
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy sets out the hierarchical approach that applies to retail, commercial leisure and other development that is
appropriate to town centres. This policy has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes the town centre as the
main retail area within Aberdeen City, helping to keep the city centre viable.
Policy 65b Out of
Centre Proposals
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy resists retail, commercial leisure and any other development which is appropriate to town centres in out-oftown
locations. This policy has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes the town centre as the main retail area
within Aberdeen City, helping to keep the city centre viable.
Policy 66 Cash and
Carry and Wholesale
Warehouses
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
This policy states that proposals for development considered as cash and carry and wholesale will be considered on their
own merits and that premises which sell to the public will be considered as normal retail outlets. This policy is irrelevant
in this SEA consideration as it only refers to how ACC will categorise these applications.
Policy 67 Protection of
Services in Lower
Deeside
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy resists any development in Lower Deeside which will change uses from commercial to residential. This policy
has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes and safeguards areas of employment.
91
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 68 Business and
Industrial Land
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy identifies areas of business and industrial land and safeguards them against development of other uses. This
policy has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes and safeguards areas of employment.
Policy 69 Specialist
Employment Area
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy identifies areas of specialist employment and safeguards them against development of other uses. This
policy has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes and safeguards an area of employment and research.
Policy 70 West End
Office Policy Area
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
This policy identifies the West End Office Area and favours change of use to office purposes and residential use in this
area. This policy has a positive affect on material assets as it promotes and safeguards an area of employment. This
policy also allows for change of use to residential, crating new homes for people, as long as the continued use as an
office area is not prejudiced.
Policy 71 Pipelines and
Control of Major
Accident Hazards
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
++
This policy states that ACC will take full account of advice from the Health and Safety Executive when determining all
applications for development within consultation distances of hazardous installations. This policy has a positive affect by
ensuring that no development takes place that will be likely to negatively impact on human health.
Policy 72 Use of
Appropriate Transport
Modes
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
++
This policy resists development that would be likely to increase the proportion of trips made in the City by private car.
This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over cardependency.
The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as walking
and cycling.
Policy 73a Vehicular
Access to New
Developments
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that new developments mitigate adverse impacts that are created by traffic accessing the new
development. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes mitigation
measures such as green transport plans and traffic-reducing. This policy protects human health by requiring that new
developments do not compromise road safety.
Policy 73b New
Driveways and Parking
in Front Gardens
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy requires that all applications for new driveways and parking within gardens conform to ACC’s relevant SPG.
This policy restricts the amount of new driveways and car parking in front gardens to those that ACC’s sees as suitable.
This has a positive affect on road maintenance as roads with fewer driveways are more viable.
Policy 74 Pedestrian &
Public Transport
Access to Development
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that developments have pedestrian links to trip sources within 800m and public transport links within
400m. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over
car-dependency. The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as
walking and cycling.
Policy 75 Transport
Provision within
Development
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
+
0
+
This policy requires that developments should provide both the appropriate level of car parking and appropriate levels of
walk, cycle routes, bike and motorcycle storage, etc depending on whether they are residential, non- residential or mixed
use. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over cardependency.
The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as
walking and cycling. The policy also has a positive affect by producing material assets such as paths.
Policy 76 Car Parks
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy resists proposals that result in an overall increase in off street car parking spaces. This policy has a positive
affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over car-dependency. The policy also
has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as walking and cycling.
92
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as alternative
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Policy 77 Green
Transport Plans
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that all proposals for major development submit a Green Transport Plan when planning permission is
requested. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as Green Transport Plans promote
transport choice over car-dependency. Green Transport Plans also have a positive affect on human health by promoting
other transport choices such as walking and cycling.
Policy 78 Transport
Assessments
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This policy requires that all significant traffic generating developments must submit a Transport Assessment (TA) when
planning permission is requested. This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as TA’s promote
transport choice over car-dependency. Tas also have a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport
choices such as walking and cycling.
Policy 79 Land for
Transport Proposals
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
This policy identifies land that is safeguarded for future transport proposals. This policy protects these areas of land from
any development that is unacceptable, i.e. non-transport related development. This policy has a positive affect as it
safeguards land for future uses such as Park & Ride sites, these are material assets for the City.
Policy 80 The Western
Peripheral Route
+/-
0
0
0
+/-
0
-
++
0
0
This policy states ACC’s commitment to work with the Scottish Executive and Aberdeenshire Council to safeguard the
final AWPR route. This policy has a positive affect as its outcome, i.e. a road, is a material asset for the City. The
AWPR will inevitably have a negative affect on landscape. This policy has both negative and positive affects on the
climate and air quality. The route of the AWPR will experience increased air pollution impacting on climate change
whereas areas of previous congestion relieved by the AWPR will experience improved air quality, in turn having a
positive affect on the climate.
Policy 81 Aberdeen
Airport and Aberdeen
Harbour
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
Identifies Public Safety Zones around Aberdeen Airport. Policy favours development within the operational land of the
Airport and Harbour that has associated uses with the airport and harbour. This policy has a positive affect on
Aberdeen’s material assets as it protects the Airport and the Harbour from unacceptable development. This policy
protects health by setting out a public safety zone around the Airport.
Policy 82 Masterplans
+
0
0
+
+
0
+
+
+
This policy requires Masterplans for certain sites when ACC considers it appropriate. This policy has a positive affect on
air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over car-dependency and sustainable materials
and lifetime standards. The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such
as walking and cycling. The policy also has a positive affect on the population as it will improve the supply of housing,
type of housing and potential to cater for an ageing population.
Policy 83 Developer
Contributions
+
+
0
0
+
0
+
+
0
+
This policy requires developers to enter into Planning Obligations to address fully the consequences of development.
This policy has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over car
dependency. The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as
walking and cycling. It also promotes SUDS and helps to provide valuable education and community facilities, building
on the fixed assets within the city.
93
Appendix 7.e: Assessment Masterplanning Policies
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as an alternative
Options Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Appraising and
respecting the local
context (Policy 1, 2 and
5)
0
+
0
+
0
++
+
+
0
0
This aim ensures that the appearance of new buildings / development is considered in relation to the local context, and
enables local factors to be taken into consideration during the masterplanning stage.
Review of relevant
policies
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Means that all supporting and supplementary policies and guidance are used during the masterplanning stage. This has
positive benefits on all aspects by helping to consider wide ranging issues.
Create a vision
0
0
0
+/0
+/0
+
+/0
+
+
+
Helps promote the ‘place making’ agenda, and create marketable places for people to buy, live and invest in.
Establish and promote
a set of design
principles (Policy 1)
0
0
0
0
0
++
++
+
0
0
Ensures that the appearance of new buildings / development have a clear set of objectives and help to raise design
standards.
Establish a phasing /
delivery programme
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
0
Ensures that the proposed development is programmed and deliverable from the masterplanning stages. This ensures
that housing provision and the quality of development outlined in the masterplan / development framework is delivered.
Promote greenspace /
open space network
(Policy 28, 29, 36 and
39)
+
+
+
++
+
+
++
+/-
+/-
+
Ensures the protection and enhancement of biodiversity, its setting and surrounding landscape and provision of open
space provision. This could detract from the amount of material assets, but adequate density management during the
masterplanning of sites can act as a mitigating measure.
Promote ecology /
biodiversity (Policy 33
and 34)
+
+
+
++
+
0
++
0
0
+
This ensures that areas of local biodiversity importance are conserved, enhanced and where appropriate new places are
created.
Promote health and
wellbeing (Policy 35
and 39)
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
++
++
Promote healthy lifestyles through the encouragement of walkable neighbourhoods with appropriate open space
provision, foot and cycle path networks.
Promote community /
neighbourhood centres
(Policy 64)
0
0
0
0
+
0
0
+
+
+
This creates positive impacts of increased viability of neighbourhood retail / facilities, community safety and general
increase in standard of living.
Promote community
facilities, education and
employment (Policy 46)
0
0
0
0
+
0
+/-
+
+
+
Supports new community facilities provided they are in convenient locations and are readily accessible to all. Promoting
the creation of fixed assets such as hospitals or schools, and cause positive changes to the well-being of all age groups.
Promote accessibility /
core paths (Policy 59
and 74
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
Promotes pedestrian priority and encourages use of alternative transport modes such as walking and cycling. Therefore
has a positive impact on human health, as well as air quality and climate change due to reduction in car-dependency.
94
SEA Topics
Existing Policies
as an alternative
Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Promote connectivity to
surrounding network
(Policy 60)
+
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
0
+
This means that development needs to be considered in respect of the wider infrastructure network, and ensures that
development retains and where needed improves public access to such routes. It encourages transport choice and
therefore has positive affects on air quality and climate change.
Promote mixed use
developments (Policy
41)
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
++
+
Allows for certain areas to be developed with a mix of uses which will contribute to the character and townscape of an
area – therefore protecting the historic environment and setting. It improves the supply of housing through allowing
housing development in areas not traditionally housing, e.g. above shops in the city centre, and looks to protect against
development that would adversely affect the amenity of people living and working in a mixed use area.
Promote affordable
housing (Policy 42)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
Provide increased supply of affordable housing in the city which meets modern housing and building standards. Promote
the creation of fixed assets, improves supply of housing, caters for an aging population and can help improve social
inclusion.
Promote sustainable
transport options
(Policy 72, 74, and 77)
++
0
0
0
+
0
0
0
+
++
Resists development that would be likely to increase the proportion of trips made in the City by private car. Positive affect
on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over car-dependency. Also has a positive
affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as walking and cycling.
Promote sustainable
development /
construction (Policy 22
and 23)
+
+
+
+
++
0
+/-
++
+
+
This ensures that energy saving technologies, layout and orientation, as well as sustainable construction methods for
new buildings / developments are considered at the masterplanning stage, in order to help combat climate change.
Future generations will benefit most.
Promote recycling /
reduce waste
generation (Policy 20
and 21)
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+
0
+
+
+
+
This ensures that waste disposal and recycling facility requirements are considered during the masterplanning stage, it
supports more sustainable lifestyles, less waste to landfill. Potential negative impacts may result from localised pollution
concerned with the type of such facilities, particularly in regard to predominantly residential developments.
Promote developer
contributions (Policy
83)
+
+
0
0
+
0
+
+
0
+
Requires developers to enter into Planning Obligations to address fully the consequences of development. This policy
has a positive affect on air quality and climate change as the policy promotes transport choice over car dependency.
The policy also has a positive affect on human health by promoting other transport choices such as walking and cycling.
It also promotes SUDS and helps to provide valuable education and community facilities, building on the fixed assets
within the city.
Promote Community
Engagement
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
++
Allows people and communities to be able to participate in the masterplanning stages, comment on proposals and
provide local knowledge.
Promote safety and
crime prevention
through design (Policy
7)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
++
Design Out Crime principles used to ensure that new buildings / development are protected from antisocial behaviour.
The aim is to create safer communities and more attractive development layouts.
Promote Street Design
(Policy 58)
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
+
0
+
Makes sure that streets and spaces are well designed, allowing people to enjoy the public realm and make the city more
vibrant, and leading to the enhancement of the historic environment and townscape.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 neutral, ? uncertain
95
Appendix 7.f: Cumulative Effect Assessment of Options/Policies
Preferred
Option
Alternative1
Alternative2
Alternative3
Policies
Cumulative
Impacts
Comments
Air - - - -- +/- If
the development of new homes causes more use of the motorcar, then congestion on the roads will be exacerbated and air quality
standards will be compromised in some areas. Policies and SPG on Air Quality will seek to mitigate negative affects. During the
implementation phases of the LDP, housing construction is likely to have short-term negative impacts on air quality.
Biodiversity -- -- -- --- +/- --/+
Most of the developments may take place on reenfield sites. This will have long-term negative impacts on habitat loss (green space,
open space, greenbelt and the countryside around the City), habitat fragmentation and vegetation removal. Developments on brownfield
sites are likely to have long-term positive affects on biodiversity particularly if new developments incorporate soft landscaping and tree
planting into the design of new homes. The plan is likely to have policies that protect and enhance biodiversity. Overall, however, the plan
is likely to have long-term irreversible negative and positive affects on biodiversity.
Climatic
Factors
-/+ -/+ -/+ ---/+ +/- +/New
developments will have negative affects on the climate as they will increase the demand for energy and to travel. However, new
developments will be required to be more efficient that current buildings and there will be an increased requirement for renewable energy.
Water -- -- -- -- +/- --/+
Development will have a negative impact on water quality and will increase water abstraction from the River Dee. Policies in the plan will
protect water quality and the River Dee, but the plan is likely to have significant impacts on water.
Soil -/0 -/0 -/0 -/0 +/- --/+
The implementation of the LDP is likely to have negative affects on soil through soil erosion, desegregation, compaction and
contamination of reenfield sites. There would be positive impacts where development carries out remediation of contaminated land.
Landscape - - - --- +/- --/+
Development of the scale proposed is likely to have significant impact on the setting of Aberdeen and some areas will be visually
prominent. Positive affects are likely through enhancement where the quality of the landscape and view are poor; where urban edges are
hard and abrupt; or where the landscape is scrubby and visually exposed.
Cultural
heritage
0/- 0/- 0/- 0/-- +/- -/+
Implementation of the LDP may have direct impacts on the historic environment including loss and or damage to historic buildings and
remains, and affect the setting. Through the use of design policies and policies to enhance the historic environment there could be
positive affects.
Population ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++
Development of these sites will support an increase in the population of Aberdeen and provide a range of house types and sizes to meet
everyone’s needs.
Human
Health
++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++
The LDP is likely to have long-term positive affects on human health. New developments which conform to new building standards can
enhance good health for occupiers. New homes are more generally energy efficient, incorporate good landscaping, and are located near
the countryside or on reenfield land. They therefore provide the opportunity for people to have access to the open spaces and
recreational facilities and to appreciate the natural environment. If those with no access to housing gain access to housing, the strategy
will engender long-term positive affects in bringing social justice and health if they are in safe environments.
Material
Assets
++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++
This option will provide large amounts of employment land to support expanding businesses and attract new businesses into Aberdeen.
This option will also provide a range of house types and sizes including affordable housing. There will be a wider range of housing and
employment sites resulting from this option.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
96
Appendix 7.g: Assessment of Growth Options
SEA Topics
Development
Option
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAsset
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
A1 Preferred
Including:
OP25, OP2
-
--
0
-
-
-
-
++
++
0
This option incorporates 3 housing sites at Dubford and around 20 hectares of employment land at the southern section of
Murcar, just to the north of the existing employment allocation at Berryhill and Cloverhill. These Greenfield sites are close to
the existing urban area and would fit within the landscape and be more accessible in transport terms than the alternatives.
The scale of development would place significant demands on water supplies, would change the rural scene, and introduce
new built elements into a fairly prominent site on the edge of the city. Existing habitats (especially hedgerows) would be
affected by the development. The peripheral location and the scale of development would generate significantly more CO2
and Methane. On the plus side, development would enable the remediation of contaminated land, contribute fixed assets
(such as affordable housing) to the city, as well as new services and facilities and open space.
A2 Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
-
--
+
--
--
--
--
++
++
0
The alternatives in this area include large development proposals to the east and west of the A90. These proposals would
have a more significant impact on the landscape setting of Aberdeen and significant impacts on the transport network.
Compared to option A1 this option, A2, has a more significant impact on biodiversity and climate change due to the distance
from Aberdeen and the increased land take. Hence the preference of A1 over A2.
B1 Preferred
Including:
OP10, OP12
-
--
0
-
-
0/-
--
++
++
0
The preferred option for development in this area is Whitestripes, as it could deliver a sustainable mixed-use community.
This option includes East Woodcroft north, which is currently allocated in the local plan. Whitestripes is a large development
and will have significant impacts on the landscape and infrastructure, but given the scale of development new services and
improvements to infrastructure would be delivered. Development could impact on a district wildlife site, but this could be
avoided through masterplanning for the site. There would be substantial benefits in terms of proving fixed assets, including
housing, business and community uses and there could be a positive knock on effect for the local economy.
B2 Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
-
--
0
--
--
-
--
++
++
0
The alternative options include options at Causewayend and Perwinnies, which would have significant impacts on the
surrounding landscape, and Scotstown Road, Middleton Park, and Balgownie Playing fields, which would result in the loss of
valued urban green space, playing fields and biodiversity. Compared to option B1 this option B2 has a more significant
impact on biodiversity and climate change due to the distance from Aberdeen and the loss of a district wildlife site. Hence
the preference of B1 over B2.
C1 Preferred
Including:
OP24, OP26,
OP30, OP27,
OP31, OP28, OP45
0
--
0
-
-
-
-
++
++
0
The preferred option includes development at: Stoneywood, close to the existing urban area; Craibstone, the eastern part of
Rowett south and part of Greenferns Landward. These options together will provide a good mix of housing and employment
in close proximity, and will help to deliver key infrastructure improvements along the A96 corridor.
97
SEA Topics
Development
Option Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAsset
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
C2 Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
0
--
0
--
--
--
--
+
+
0
The alternative sites stretch out further from the existing urban area, and are not located within walking or cycling distance of
any existing services. Compared to option C1 this option, C2, has a more significant impact on biodiversity and climate
change due to the loss of woodland and the distance from services. There are also a number of technical constraints on
development further west with the proposed AWPR route and major oil and gas pipelines. Hence the preference of C1 over
C2.
D Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
0
-
-
--
--
0
--
++
++
0
Area D is an alternative location for growth. This option has not been preferred these sites are divorced from the existing
urban area, and providing attractive linkages, encouraging walking, cycling and public transport, to Aberdeen would be
difficult. There are significant impacts on climate landscape and biodiversity, hence why the area has not been preferred.
E1 Preferred
Including:
OP42, OP43,
OP44, OP40
-
--
0
-
--
-
-
++
++
0
The preferred option includes those sites already in the Local Plan allocated for strategic housing land reserve at Kingswells
South, Maidencraig SE and Greenferns, the preferred option also includes employment land to the west of Kingswells and
part of Maidencraig NE. This option will increase the mix of uses in Kingswells, avoid natural heritage designations and fit
within the landscape.
E2 Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
-
--
-
--
--
-
--
+/-
++
0
The alternative options would include further development at Maidencraig, north west Kingswells, and development of
Greenferns Landward. Compared to option E1 this option, E2, has a more significant impact on landscape due to the
prominence of many of the sites, and there are also a number of technical constraints on development further west with the
proposed AWPR route. Hence the preference of E1 over E2.
F1 Preferred
Including:
OP58
0
--
0
-
--
0
0
++
++
0
The preferred option is for a new settlement at Countesswells. This could provide a self sustaining community with a good
mix of housing, employment and community facilities. This site is not well connected to existing services and there would be
significant impacts on climate and other infrastructure, but development is of a scale to provide improved links and public
transport.
F2 Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
-
--
-
--
--
0
--
+
+
0
There are a number of smaller sites in the area that are alternatives to development. Compared to option F1 this option, F2,
has a more significant impact on landscape due to the prominence of the sites. This option cannot deliver the same positive
benefits for population and material assets and new services and facilities cannot be provided in an easily accessible
location. Hence the preference of F1 over F2.
G1 Preferred
Including:
OP62, OP61,
OP60, OP59,
OP64, OP51, OP65
0
-
0
-
-
-
-
+
+
0
The preferred option for development in the Deeside area is to limit development to a few locations given the significant
transport and environmental constraints in the area. This option includes development in Oldfold (east of Miltimber), and
small scale development to the west of Miltimber, in Peterculter and at north Garthdee Farm. The option also includes
provision for expansion of development sites at north Friarsfield and Pitfodles. These sites have the lowest impact on the
surrounding landscape, and, in the case of the larger proposals, would provide a mix of housing and employment, which is
lacking in the Deeside area.
G2 Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
-
--
-
--
--
--
--
++
++
0
There are a large number of alternative sites in the Deeside area. Compared to option G1 this option, G2, has a more
significant impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity and climate change cultural heritage and landscape. The impacts on the
River Dee SAC and loss of woodland and areas of known habitats would be significant. Hence the preference of G1 over
G2.
98
SEA Topics
Development
Option Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAsset
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
H1 Preferred
Including:
OP77, OP78,
OP76, OP79
0
--
0
-
--
-
-
++
+
0
The preferred option for development includes a large mixed use development at Loirston, excluding the area designated as
a District Wildlife Site and opportunities for employment land at Blackhills and Charlestown. There are potential impacts
resulting from the development of these areas on biodiversity, given the proximity to Loirston Loch and Kincorth Hill, which
are both District Wildlife sites.
H2 Alternative
Alternatives listed in
Appendix 7.k
0
--
0
--
--
-
-
++
++
--
The alternative for this area includes increased development at Loiston, development at Rigifa, and Peterseat. Compared to
option H1 this option, H2, has a more significant impact on biodiversity, the landscape impact of development at Peterseat,
and there are constraints to development due to blasting at Blackhills Quarry. Hence the preference of H1 over H2.
City Area 1
Preferred
0
0
+
0
+
+/-
+/-
++
+
+
The preferred option would encourage, in principle, development on all brownfield sites in the existing urban area. Brownfield
development will have positive affects on receptors such as potential to clear up contaminated sites and support
regeneration, but may alter the appearance of townscapes, and impact on cultural heritage depending on design of
development. In addition the current Aberdeen College building, the Bon Accord Masterplan, Aberdeen Beach South, Park
House, Summerhill Academy buildings, and part of the copper beach public house are specific proposals in the City area
that would be supported.
City Area 2
Alternatives
0
0
+
0
+
+/-
--
+
+
The
alternative options include development at the Hillhead Centre, St Fitticks and Ramsay Gardens Garthdee. Compared
to option City Area 1 this option, City Area 2, would result in the loss of open space, have significant impacts on the
landscape, and would not have the same positive benefits that result from supporting brownfield development. Hence the
preference of the City Area 1 over the City Area 2.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
99
Appendix 7.h: Assessment of Brownfield Sites
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Brownfield
General
Assessment
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
The size of the development is likely to increase traffic in a built up area and impact negatively on air quality and specifically on
Air Quality Management Areas, but location of brownfield opportunities are close to existing services and facilities and promotes
walking and cycling. Housing development in Air Quality Management Areas may have a negative impact on human health, this is
identified within the individual assessments. Housing development is likely to have short-term adverse effects soil through soil
erosion, desegregation, compaction and pollution during construction phases, but development will be required to remediate any
contaminated land. Housing development could potentially have short-term negative impacts on water through a change in water
table, stream flows, site water budgets, localised flooding, silt deposition and water-borne pollution. Inevitably, some localised
impacts on watercourses would occur due to the development. This is a brownfield development and the impact on biodiversity
will be neutral. The scale of development that could be accommodated on site could have a negative impact on climate due to
increased use of resources and increased emissions. The scale of development will provide housing and support the population
and will have positive affects on population and material assets. Housing development is likely to have long-term positive affects
on human health. Provision of new housing in conformity with new building standards can enhance good health and social justice
for people with no access to housing now gaining access to housing. Since new homes are more energy efficient than the existing
stock; they reduce running costs and assist in decreasing fuel poverty. While development of brownfield site has a scope for
enhancement of landscapes, development may also restrict some views. These effects may weaken the sense of place, the
identity of existing settlements and landscape character in places. Depending on implementation strategies, housing development
proposed on these brownfield sites could positively or adversely affect the built features, their context, pattern of past historic use,
and associations of the historic environment. The planning and design of developments, which conforms, substantially to the
City’s existing design, layout, material and quality is likely to have long-term positive affects. But new developments that deviate
from existing designs could adversely affect the setting of historic settlements in the long-term. New housing provides the scope
for creation of fixed assets, the use of natural and material assets, promoting waste minimisation, recycling and composting.
1 Western Road
+/-
-
+/-
-/+
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. The Inverness/Kittybrewster Railway line is a District Wildlife Site, and if not designed
sympathetically could have a negative impact on biodiversity; however a sympathetic development could have positive affects.
40. 140
Causewayend
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
393-396 Great
Western Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. This site is within a conservation area and without careful consideration could impact
negatively on cultural heritage.
41 Nelson
Street
+/-
-
+/-
-/+
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. The Inverness/Kittybrewster Railway line is a District Wildlife Site, and if not designed
sympathetically could have a negative impact on biodiversity; however a sympathetic development could have positive affects.
100
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
82-88
Middlefield
Place
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
86-92 Auchmill
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
9-13 Broomhill
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
1-7 Crombie
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
--
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Potential contamination from various previous uses and development may have positive
affects on soil quality. Development is close to areas at risk from flooding and may have a significant impact on climate.
9 Duff Street
+/-
-
+/-
-/+
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. The Inverness/Kittybrewster Railway line is a District Wildlife Site, and if not designed
sympathetically could have a negative impact on biodiversity; however a sympathetic development could have positive affects.
35 Froghall
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Close to Old Aberdeen Conservation Area and development has the potential to enhance
cultural heritage if sensitively designed if not impact will be negative.
45-47 Holland
Street
+/-
-
+/-
-/+
--
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. The Inverness/ Kittybrewster Railway line is a District Wildlife Site, and if not designed
sympathetically could have a negative impact on biodiversity; however a sympathetic development could have positive affects.
The area is also at risk from flooding and development may impact negatively on climate.
96-126 John
Street
+/-
-
+/-
-/+
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. The Inverness/ Kittybrewster Railway line is a District Wildlife Site, and if not designed
sympathetically could have a negative impact on biodiversity; however a sympathetic development could have positive affects.
Development may have significant impacts on cultural heritage as the site is close to the Union Street Conservation Area and
Wolmanhill category A listed building.
11 Jopps Lane
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
366 King Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
24 Market Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Site is within the Union Street Conservation area and development may have a significant
impact on cultural heritage.
41 Nelson
Street
+/-
-
+/-
-/+
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. The Inverness/Kittybrewster Railway line is a District Wildlife Site, and if not designed
sympathetically could have a negative impact on biodiversity; however a sympathetic development could have positive affects.
54 Park Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
101
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
21 Polmuir
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Site is within the Ferryhill conservation area and next to listed buildings and development
may have a significant impact on cultural heritage.
1 and 2
Springbank
Terrace
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Development site includes a category B listed building and is within Bon-Accord
Crescent/Crown St. Conservation Area and development may have a significant impact on cultural heritage.
343 Union
Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. As per brownfield general assessment. Development site includes a category C listed
building and is within Union Street Conservation Area and development may have a significant impact on cultural heritage.
Abbey Road
Torry
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+ As per brownfield general assessment. In addition development is close to areas at risk from flooding and may be vulnerable to
future changes in global climate.
Aberdeen
College,
Gallowgate
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Aberdon House
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Balgownie
Centre
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Balgownie
Machine Centre
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Balgownie
Primary School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
B&Q, Denmore
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Bankhead
Academy
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Bimini, 69
Constitution
Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
BP Dyce (Part)
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
102
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Braeside Infant
School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition redevelopment in Tillydrone will support regeneration in the area having
positive affects on population and material assets.
Broadford
Works
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition redevelopment could also have significant negative impacts on cultural
heritage if not sensitively designed, but sensitive development will enhance cultural heritage.
Burnside
Centre, Mastrick
Drive/ 2 Croft
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Byron Park
Nursery
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+ As per brownfield general assessment.
Castlegate
Regeneration
Area
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition the restoration of these listed buildings have the potential to bring the upper
and basement levels of the buildings back into use and enhance heritage in the conservation area. Redevelopment could also
have significant negative impacts on cultural heritage if not sensitively designed.
Cattofield
Reservoir
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Causewayend
Primary School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Causewayend Primary School is a category C listed building and unsympathetic
development has the potential to have significant negative impacts, but sympathetic development could have positive benefits.
Citadel
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Redevelopment of the Citadel, a listed building, will have mixed impacts depending on the
quality of design.
Copper Beech,
Auchinyell
+/-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
+/--
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Deeside Old Railway is a District Wildlife Site, and if not designed sympathetically could
have a negative impact on biodiversity; however a sympathetic development could have positive affects. Development would also
result in the loss of trees and may have significant impacts on biodiversity and landscape.
Cornhill Hospital
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition development is within a conservation area and could have a negative impact if
development is not responsive to surrounding environment.
Cotton Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Craighill Primary
School
+/-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Site is close to the River Dee SAC and development has the potential to impact negatively
on biodiversity, but given the scale and the fact that it is a brownfield development impact is unlikely to be significant.
103
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Croft House
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Crown House
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Part of the Bon-Accord Crescent/Crown St. conservation area. Britannic House is a
category B listed building, and an unsympathetic development has the potential to have a significant impact on cultural heritage,
but sympathetic development could have positive benefits.
Culter Tip
+/-
-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition, if development on this site is built sensitively then it will improve biodiversity.
The restoration of the tip will also help improve climatic factors.
Cults Pumping
Station
+/-
-
+/-
--
--
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Cults burn runs to the west of the site and development on this site would be at risk from
flooding and would have negative impacts on climate. Also, the Cults burn is a tributary of the River Dee and development may
impact negatively on the SAC and biodiversity.
Dancing Cairns,
Auchmill Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Denburn and
Womanhill
+/-
-
+/-
0
--
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition a significant area of flooding in southern portion of site shown on flood map,
and site is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The restoration of this grade A listed building has the potential to bring this
building back into use and enhance heritage in the conservation area. Redevelopment could also have significant negative
impacts on cultural heritage if not sensitively designed. Therefore, significant mixed positive/negative impact has been identified.
Donside Paper
Mill
+/-
-
+/-
-
--
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition the site is close to the River Don and there will be potential impacts on water
quality and the site will be vulnerable to future global climate changes. There may also be habitats associated with the River Don
that could be affected by development in this location.
Double 2 Bar,
22 Balnagask
Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Dunbar Halls
+/-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition development is adjacent to the River Don and development could have a
negative impact on water quality. There could be negative impacts on the River Don and ancient woodland resulting from
development. Negative impact on Climate as Close to functional flood plan and development is vulnerable to global climate
changes. Development is within a conservation area and care will need to be taken to ensure that there is no negative impact on
the surrounding environment.
Elmbank
Terrace
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Ex-sports Club
Dyce
+/-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition development is within close proximity to the Green Burn and River Don flood
plains and includes an area of ancient woodland, and development may impact negatively on these natural features and habitats
associated with them. Negative impact on Climate as Close to functional flood plan and development is vulnerable to global
climate changes.
104
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Former
Amadeus and
Riva Bingo Hall,
Queens Link
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Former Carden
School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Former
Crockers Roses
Site Lang
Stracht
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Former
Summerhill
Academy
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Frederick Street
East North
Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Froghall Terrace
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Greenfern Infant
School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Grove Nursery,
Hazlehead
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Hillhead Halls
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition development is adjacent to the River Don Part of the site is within an area at
risk from flooding and the site will be vulnerable to future global climate changes, therefore mixed impact on Climate.
Hilton Nursery
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Kennerty Mill
+/-
-
+/-
-
--
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition development is adjacent to the Culter Burn and close to the River Dee SAC
and may impact negatively on water quality and biodiversity The site seems to be almost entirely within the indicative flood plain
of the Culter Burn and may be vulnerable to future changes in climate. Development could potentially have a significant impact on
cultural heritage; through the loss or redevelopment of a category B listed building.
Kittybrewster
Depot
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
105
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Land at
Bucksburn
House
+/-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition this site could potentially accommodate a large number of houses and or
businesses, and the site is close to Bucksburn gorge and may impact negatively on water quality. Site adjacent to the Bucks Burn
and lower areas may be at risk of flooding. Site slopes considerably though, so likely that the affected areas would be limited,
there may be negative impacts on climate as a result of development. The surrounding area is a District Wildlife Site and is
bounded by the Bucksburn Gorge, and development may impact negatively on habitats.
Linksfield
Academy
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Mains of Dyce
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Marchburn
Infant School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+ As per brownfield general assessment.
Mile End
Primary School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. School is a category C listed building, and an unsympathetic development has the
potential to have a significant impact on cultural heritage, but sympathetic development could have positive benefits.
Mugiemoss Mill
+/-
-
+/-
-
--
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition the site is close to the River Don and there will be potential impacts on water
quality and the site will be vulnerable to future global climate changes. There may also be habitats associated with the River Don
that could be affected by development in this location.
Mugiemoss
Road South
Side
+/-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition this site is very close to the Bucks Burn and area of land at risk from flooding
and may be vulnerable to future changes in climate. Development may impact habitats related to the water course.
Nazeteth House
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition The restoration of this grade C(s) listed building has the potential to bring this
building back into use and enhance heritage in the area. Redevelopment could also have significant negative impacts on cultural
heritage if not sensitively designed.
Oakbank School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Farburn Terrace
+/-
-
+/-
0
--
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition a watercourse passes through the site and there is a significant area of
flooding shown on the flood map. Residential areas at risk of flooding downstream of site may be at greater risk; therefore
development may have a significant negative impact on climate.
Park House
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Pittodrie Park
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/--
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. Large development in this prominent location is likely to impact significantly on the
surrounding landscape.
106
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Powis Lane
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Raeden
Nurseries, Mid
Stocket Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Rutherford
Church, 120
Rosemount
Place
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/--
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Seaforth Road
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/--
+
+
+ As per brownfield general assessment.
Smithfield
School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition redevelopment in Tillydrone will support regeneration in the area having
positive affects on population and material assets.
St Machar
Primary School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition redevelopment in Tillydrone will support regeneration in the area having
positive affects on population and material assets.
St Nicholas
House
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++
++
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition redevelopment would have a significant positive impact on cultural heritage
and landscape within the designated conservation area.
St Peter’s
Nursery
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition this site is within the Old Aberdeen conservation area and without careful
consideration could impact negatively on cultural heritage.
Stockethill
Church
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Stoneywood
Terrace
+/-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. However, this is a greenfield site in an area surrounded by trees and the river don has the
potential to impact negatively on biodiversity in the area.
The Portals Bar,
17 Castle Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Tillydrone
Primary School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition redevelopment in Tillydrone will support regeneration in the area having
positive affects on population and material assets.
Timmer Market,
East North
Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
107
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
Tivoli Theatre,
Guild Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition the restoration of this grade A listed building has the potential to bring this
building back into use and enhance heritage in the conservation area. Redevelopment could also have significant negative
impacts on cultural heritage if not sensitively designed.
Triple Kirks
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition the restoration of this grade A listed building has the potential to bring this
building back into use and enhance heritage in the conservation area. Redevelopment could also have significant negative
impacts on cultural heritage if not sensitively designed.
Urquhart Road
Works
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Upper/
Basement
Floors, 73-149
Union Street
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition the restoration of these listed buildings have the potential to bring the upper
and basement levels of the buildings back into use and enhance heritage in the conservation area. Redevelopment could also
have significant negative impacts on cultural heritage if not sensitively designed.
Victoria House
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Victoria Road
School
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition development is close to areas at risk from flooding and may be vulnerable to
future changes in global climate.
VSA Gallowgate
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
++/--
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition this building is a category C listed building, and is situated next to St Margret of
Scotland Episcopal Church, which is a category B listed building. Development has the potential to bring this building back into
use with careful design.
The Waterfront,
Torry
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Water Lane
Grannary
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition this site is in close proximity to the Harbour and the area of land at risk from
flooding. This site will be vulnerable to future global changes in climate.
Woodend
Hospital Annexe
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Woodgrove
Nursing Home
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
Woodside
Congregational
Church
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment.
108
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP19
Haudagain
Triangle
+/--
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
+/-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition there are possible cumulative issue in terms of the commercial/retail element
attracting traffic to an Air Quality Management Area. On the other hand, improvements to the Haudigan should improve
congestion at this roundabout. This development proposal forms part of a wider masterplan for the area, and could replace the
housing on this site with more energy efficient modern dwellings. On the flip site the redevelopment would require the site to be
demolished, which would create waste, therefore impact on climate is mixed. Development would assist in regeneration in this
area and improve cultural heritage. This development will provide infrastructure improvements for the road network around
Aberdeen and will have a positive impact on material assets. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan
section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
11/01 Copper
Beach Site,
Auchinyell (part
of)
+/-
-
+/-
0
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per brownfield general assessment. In addition this site will have a negative impact is on landscape as the site proposed to
remove a section of wooded urban green space that acts as a buffer between an urban area and an open green space.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
109
Appendix 7.i: Assessment of Preferred Sites
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
General
Greenfield
Assessment
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
Large greenfield development is likely to increase traffic into the built up area and impact negatively on air quality and specifically
on Air Quality Management Areas. Housing development in these areas may have a negative impact on human health, this is
identified within the individual assessments. Housing development is likely to have short-term adverse effects soil through soil
erosion, desegregation, compaction and pollution during construction phases. Housing development could potentially have shortterm
negative impacts on water through a change in water table, stream flows, site water budgets, localised flooding, silt
deposition and water-borne pollution. Inevitably, some localised impacts on watercourses would occur due to the development.
Greenfield development is likely to impact negatively on biodiversity through the loss of habitats, habitat fragmentation or
disturbance to species that use the site as a habitat. The scale of development that could be accommodated on site could have a
negative impact on climate due to increased use of resources and increased emissions. Positively for population, human health
and material assets, large scale housing development is likely to have long-term positive affects. Provision of new housing in
conformity with new building standards can enhance good health and social justice for people with no access to housing now
gaining access to housing. Since new homes are more energy efficient than the existing stock; they reduce running costs and
assist in decreasing fuel poverty. Greenfield development is likely to have a negative impact on landscape. These effects may
weaken the sense of place, the identity of existing settlements and landscape character in places. Depending on implementation
strategies, housing development proposed on these greenfield sites could positively or adversely affect the built features, their
context, pattern of past historic use, and associations of the historic environment, which encompasses built heritage features
(ancient monuments, archaeological sites and landscapes, historic buildings, townscapes, parks, gardens and designed
landscapes, as well as marine heritage) and the context or setting in which they sit, and the patterns of past use, in landscapes
and within the soil, and also in our towns, villages and streets. The planning and design of developments, which conforms,
substantially to the City’s existing design, layout, material and quality is likely to have long-term positive affects. But new
developments that deviate from existing designs could adversely affect the setting of historic settlements in the long-term. New
housing provides the scope for creation of fixed assets, the use of natural and material assets, promoting waste minimisation,
recycling and composting.
OP25 Dubford
-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development would enable the remediation of contaminated
land and development will have a mixed impact on soil quality. Site is Flood risk category B, a water course is present on the site,
potential negative impact on climate and water quality as a result of development. A masterplan would be required for this site,
see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP25 Dubford
Brickworks,
Bridge of Don
-
-
+/-
-
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Part of the site is at risk from flooding and there may be
negative impacts on water quality as a result of development. The redevelopment of this site would result in the remediation of
potentially contaminated land and would improve soil quality, therefore impact on soil is mixed. There is likely to be habitats and
species associated with the Burn of Mundurno. However, much of this proposal includes redevelopment of a brownfield site, and
it is not expected that there would be any significant adverse effect on habitats. Part of the site is at risk from flooding (category
B) and would be vulnerable to future changes in climate. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section
of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
110
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP25 Mundurno
-
-
-
-
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The site is at risk of flooding (category B) from adjacent
rivers and development may have a negative impact on water and development will be vulnerable to future climate changes given
its location, negative impact on climate. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and
the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP2 Murcar
-
-
-
+
--
+/-
-
++
+
0
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Employment Development would have a significant positive
impact on material assets. Potential loss of land identified as Undeveloped Coastal Management Area as well as views to the
coast – coastal strip is identified as a primary landscape in the Landscape Strategy would result in a negative impact on
landscape. However, boundaries have been revised to minimise impact on the landscape. Possible impact on views from A90 but
impact is minimised. No significant impact on human health as a result of employment development in this location. A water
course is located to the north west of the site and the surrounding area is at risk from flooding (category B), potential negative
impact on climate and water quality as a result of development.
OP10 East
Woodcroft North
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
+ As per general greenfield assessment. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and
the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP12
Whitestripes /
Grandhome
--
--
-
-
--
+/-
--
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Monument Wood is a District Wildlife Site within the site and
there are other wildlife sites that border the site, therefore potential negative impact on biodiversity. These only make up a small
area and can be avoided. Landscape impacts would be high if not sensitively treated as it is a highly visible site. Due to the scale
of development impact on air, water material assets, population and human health are more significant. Site is Flood risk
category C and D and there are potential negative impacts on climate and water quality as a result of development. Some
historical features on-site and the may be a slight negative impact on cultural heritage. A masterplan would be required for this
site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP24
Stoneywood
-
--
-
-
--
-
0
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The River Don is in close proximity and development is
likely to affect existing habitats and have a negative impact on biodiversity, site is flood risk category B and D and could be
vulnerable to future climate changes. There are a number of historic features on this site and development may have a negative
impact on these. If the trees and woodland are retained, it should be possible to accommodate development here without
significantly affecting the landscape character of the area. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan
section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP26
Craibstone
North and
Walton Farm
And OP29
Craibstone
South
--
--
-
--
--
+/-
-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This is a very large proposal that would have significant
negative impacts on air, water, material assets, population and human health. Large greenfield site with existing habitats,
development is likely to have a significant negative impact on biodiversity. There are watercourses running through the site,
category B and D flood risk, and it could be vulnerable to future climate changes. A masterplan would be required for this site,
see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
111
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP30 Rowett
South
--
--
-
-
--
+/-
-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Proposal could impact on biodiversity with potential impact
on DWS’s and other possible habitats, therefore potential negative impact on biodiversity. Development may impact negatively
on the setting of Brimmond Hill and result in negative affects on landscape. This site is a flood risk category D site and it could be
vulnerable to future climate changes. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and
the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP21 Land
adjacent to
Manor Walk
-
-
+/-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development would result in the loss of open space and
there may be negative impacts on human health. Potential contamination on part of the site related to Gas manufacture &
distribution therefore mixed impact on soil. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table
and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP135
Woodside
-
---
-
---
---
+/-
-
++
++
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The land to the north of the site is identified as being at risk
of flooding on SEPA website. DWS runs along the southern boundary and River Don DWS situated 250m north of the site
boundary at its closest point. River Don is also bound by areas of Ancient Woodland along the north and south banks of the river
and development may have significant impacts on biodiversity. Proposal includes an allowance for a 50% affordable housing
contribution and upgrading of pitches in the area which will have a positive affect on population and material assets.
OP31
Greenferns
Landward
-
--
-
-
--
+/-
+/-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This is a very large proposal that would have significant
negative impacts on air, water, material assets, population and human health. Site is a flood risk category C site, and the Bucks
Burn passes through the site. This is a largely natural watercourse in this locality which carries high flows, and is subject to bank
erosion and minor flooding, development may have a significant impact on climate. Development may have a detrimental effect
on local landscape particularly the landscape setting of Brimmond Hill. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the
masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP28 Rowett
North
-
--
-
--
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The Green Burn runs through the site and development
could have a negative impact on water quality. There are likely to be habitats and species associated with the Green Burn. In
addition the applicant has indicated that there is a large list of moth species on-site and development could result in a negative
impact on biodiversity. The site is a Flood Risk Category B and D and may have a negative impact on climate. There are also
some buildings of architectural merit on-site and development may have a negative impact if not design sensitively. A masterplan
would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix
7.l.
OP45
Greenferns
-
--
-
--
--
+/-
-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development could have a significant impact on a District
Wildlife Site in close proximity. There is potential that the development will have cumulative effects and have changes to the
primary landscape and potentially damage green linkages between Northfield and Kingswells. Site is a flood risk category C site,
and the Bucks Burn passes through the site. This is a largely natural watercourse in this locality which carries high flows, and is
subject to bank erosion and minor flooding, development may have a significant impact on climate. A masterplan would be
required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP41
Kingswells C
-
-
-
-
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Site is a flood risk category D and may have a negative
impact on climate. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of
master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
112
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP42 Wester
Huxterstone
-
-
-
-
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Site is a flood risk category D and may have a negative
impact on climate. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of
master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP43
Maidenscraig
South East
-
-
-
--
--
+/-
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Development would need to be handled sensitively to take
into account the LNR and to mitigate local landscape impacts, but development may have significant impacts on landscape and
biodiversity. The site is a Flood Risk Category B and D and may have a negative impact on climate. A masterplan would be
required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP44
Maidenscraig
North East
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Site is a flood risk category B and D site and may have a
negative impact on climate. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the
assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP40 West
Hatton,
Kingswells
--
-
-
-
--
--
--
++
++
0 As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. This site has been proposed for a large scale business park
development would be likely to result in significant commuter traffic and impact on air and climate. However, it also has the
potential to positively affect material assets. Historic Scotland have identified that there may be a significant negative impact on
the setting of a scheduled consumption dyke resulting from development. There would be no significant impacts on human health
as a result of this development. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the
assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP40 Home
Farm
--
-
-
-
--
+/-
--
++
++
0
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Development would form part of a larger employment
development and would be likely to result in significant commuter traffic and impact on air and climate. However, it also has the
potential to positively affect material assets. There would be no significant impacts on human health as a result of this
development. Flood risk category D and blockages within a culverted section of the Den Burn (Aberdeen City Council: 4
th
Biennial
Flood Report (2003). A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of
master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP40 Home
Farm,
Kingswells
--
-
-
-
--
+/-
--
++
++
0
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Due to its significant size this large scale business park
development would be likely to cause generate commuter traffic and have a significant impact on air quality. Business
development has the potential to positively affect material assets. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the
masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP58
Countesswells
-
--
-
-
--
+/-
+/-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This is a very large proposal that would have significant
negative impacts on air, water, material assets, population and human health. Site is flood risk category D and development may
have a negative impact on water and climate. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this
table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP58 Land to
the West of
Loanhead
-
--
-
-
--
+/-
+/-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This is part of a very large proposal that would have
significant negative impacts on air, water, material assets, population and human health. Site is flood risk category D and
development may have a negative impact on water and climate. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan
section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP62 Oldfold
Farm, Milltimber
-
-
-
--
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Site is flood risk category C and D and development may
have a negative impact on water and may be vulnerable to future changes in climate. Site is within 2km of the River Dee SAC
and may impact negatively on biodiversity. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table
and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
113
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP61 Edgehill,
Milltimber West
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment.
OP60 Culter
House Road,
Milltimber
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment.
OP134
Peterculter Burn
-
--
+/-
----
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. There will be mixed impacts on soil as the site is currently
mostly a browfield site which was previously a tip and therefore remedial works would improve the soil quality. As Development
would be in on a District Wildlife site, close to the River Dee SAC and the site has TPOs and there is likely to be a significant
negative impact on biodiversity. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and
biodiversity. Development is adjacent to the Culter Burn and areas of the site are at risk from flooding and development may
impact negatively on climate and water as a result of this.
OP59
Peterculter East
-
-
-
-
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Flood risk category C site, development may have negative
impacts on water and be vulnerable to future changes in climate. Site is within 2km of the River Dee SAC and may impact
negatively on biodiversity.
OP64 Craigton
Road/Airyhall
Road
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The site is a valuable habitat/corridor and recreational
space, and also plays a role in separating the settlements of Cults and Braeside. The proposal puts these functions at risk.
OP51
Friarsfield, Cults
-
-
-
--
--
+/-
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. There is a risk of development breaching the skyline and
having a significant impact on landscape. Site is within 2km of the River Dee SAC and may impact negatively on biodiversity. A
masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in
Appendix 7.l. Potential flood risk associated with site.
OP65 North
Garthdee Farm
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment. Site is within 2km of the River Dee SAC and may impact negatively on biodiversity. A
masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in
Appendix 7.l.
OP77(Including
OP80) Loriston
-
--
-
--
--
+/-
-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The preferred option would not include any development on
the district wildlife site or the local nature reserve, but development may have significant impacts on biodiversity. This site is a
flood risk category D site, and development would require careful surface water management. Site is within 2km of the River Dee
SAC and may impact negatively on biodiversity. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this
table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP78
Charleston
--
-
-
-
--
+/-
--
++
++
0
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. This site has been proposed for a large scale business park
development would be likely to result in significant commuter traffic and impact on air and climate. However, it also has the
potential to positively affect material assets. There would be no significant impacts on human health as a result of this
development. Development is on a flood risk category D site and could be vulnerable to future climate changes. A masterplan
would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix
7.l.
114
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP76 Souter
Head Road,
Cove
--
-
-
-
--
+/-
0
++
++
0
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. This site has been proposed for a retail development and
would be likely to result in significant commuter traffic and impact on air and climate. However, it also has the potential to
positively affect material assets. Impact on landscape is expected to be neutral as development would form part of the existing
built up area. There would be no significant impacts on human health as a result of this development. A masterplan would be
required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
OP102 Energy
Futures Centre,
South Beach
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
--
++
+
-/+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Proposal will however help the local economy diversify to
renewable energy by offering both an office for sustainable energy ventures and a tourism destination to help learn about
renewable energy. Development would result in the loss of open space, having a negative impact on human health.
OP132 Bon
Accord
Masterplan
0
0
0
0
0
+/-
0
++
0
+
Potential disturbance of listed buildings or the conservation area. However, the SPG regarding the Bon Accord Masterplan states
that the development will highlight architecture in the area therefore improving the environment of the conservation area thus the
listed buildings. The development will significantly help material assets and the economy of the area as it will help to push
Aberdeen as a top retail destination in the UK, something that the structure plan aims to achieve. The improvement of the
environment will help the safety of the area and will improve transport and community facilities for both locals and visitors. This
will help to make Aberdeen a sought after tourist attraction increasing the number of visitors to the city and wider region.
OP46 East
Arnhall
Preferred
-
-
-
--
--
+/-
-
+
+
-/+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Proposal for hotel and employment development in this
location will increase commuter traffic and impact on air quality. The site is prominent and will have a significant impact on
landscape. There is flooding associated with the Brodiach Burn, which is adjacent to the west edge of the site and may be
vulnerable to future climate change. Potential negative impact on human health as a result of proximity to major gas pipeline.
C - 1/06
Brimmond
Nursing Home
Preferred part of
OP30
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
++
++
+
As per general Greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. The provision of additional nursing care facilities will support
population and material assets.
OP69
Expansion
northwards of
Aberdeen
Gateway
--
--
-
-
--
+/-
-
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. This site has been proposed for a small extension to the
business development at Aberdeen Gateway and would include provision of a full sized and half sized football pitches. Category
D flood risk this site has a minor watercourse adjacent or running through maybe at medium to high risk of flooding. Development
will have a slight negative impact on the site. This is mainly because the site is open farmland that is clearly visible, however it is
not a “- -” as there is already development in the area which is similar to what is proposed. This additional development is
unlikely to have any significant impacts, but it does have the potential to positively affect material assets. There would be a
positive impact on human health as a result of the football pitches.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
115
Appendix 7.j: Other Opportunity Sites Identified
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP14 Argyll
Road, Aberdeen
Airport
-
-
-
0
-
0
0
+
+
0
The development of this site will lead to negative impacts on air, water, soil and climatic factors due to the size of potential
development on the site. There will be no effect on biodiversity, cultural heritage and landscape due to the land surrounding the
site being developed. It will also have no impact on human health. The development of the site will have a positive affect on
material assets and population as it will bring further commercial development to the city which will help provide more jobs in the
city.
OP35 Auchmill
Golf Course,
Greenferns
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health due to
the size of the development and its location on a Greenfield site. It will have no impact on cultural heritage. The development will
have a positive affect on material assets and population as it will provide housing that will attract people to the city.
OP72 Cove
-
-
-
-
-
0
--
+
+
The
development of this site will lead to negative impacts in air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors and human health due to
the size of the proposed development and it’s location on a Greenfield site. The site will have a significant impact on landscape
due to the site being a residential expansion to the road. The development of this site will have positive affects on material assets
and population with the creation of housing attracting people into the city.
OP98 Denburn
Valley/ Belmont
Street/ Union
Terrace
--
-
--
--
-
--
--
++
++
++/--
The proposed development for this area would have a significant negative impact on air due to dust creation from development
within the City Centre. It will also have negative impacts on water and climatic factors. There will be significant negative impacts
on soil, biodiversity, cultural heritage and landscape due to the nature of development. The development will have a significant
positive impact on material assets and population as development will attract people into the city. The development will have a
positive impact on human health due to the public realm improvement but will also have a negative impact on this due to the loss
of urban green space.
OP74 Den of
Leggart
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health due to
the size of the development and its location on a Greenfield site. It will have no impact on cultural heritage. The development will
have a positive affect on material assets and population as it will provide housing that will attract people to the city.
OP6 Dubford
Community
Facilities
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health due to
the size of the development and its location on a Greenfield site. It will have no impact on cultural heritage. The development will
have a positive affect on material assets and population as it will provide housing that will attract people to the city.
OP50 Earlswells
House
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health due to
the size of the development and its location on a Greenfield site. It will have no impact on cultural heritage. The development will
have a positive affect on material assets and population as it will provide housing that will attract people to the city.
OP52
Hazledene
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health due to
the size of the development and its location on a Greenfield site. It will have no impact on cultural heritage. The development will
have a positive affect on material assets and population as it will provide housing that will attract people to the city.
116
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP1 Hill of
Tramaud
+(-)
+(-)
++(-)
++(-)
--(--)
++(-)
++(-)
0(0)
0(0)
+(+)
The current use (short term) of this site has negative impacts on air, water, soil, biodiversity, cultural heritage and landscape due
to the nature of the landfill. It also has a significant impact on climatic factors due to the methane produced. It has no effect on
material assets and population but has a positive impact on human health as waste is being disposed off in a responsible and
safe manner.
When the site is reinstated to agricultural land/ woodland (long term) this will have a significant positive impact on soil,
biodiversity, landscape and cultural heritage. There will be no impact on material assets and population. There will be a
continued positive impact on human health. During restoration there will still be a significant negative impact on climatic factors.
Air and water quality will also be improved.
OP20 Hopecroft
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, cultural heritage, landscape and
human health due to the size and location of the proposed development on a Greenfield site. The development will have a
positive impact on material assets and population.
OP11 Jesmond
Drive, Bridge of
Don
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human health due to
the size of the development and its location on a Greenfield site. It will have no impact on cultural heritage. The development will
have a positive affect on material assets and population as it will provide housing that will attract people to the city.
OP107 King
Street/ Beach
Esplanade
(Mosque)
0
0
0
-
0
0
0
+
+
+/This
development of a mosque on this site that is well served by public transport is unlikely to have significant impacts on air,
water, soil and climatic factors due to the size of the proposed development on site. There may be a detrimental impact to the
surrounding district wildlife sites due to construction on site. There will be no impact on cultural heritage and landscape due to the
surrounding area being partially built up and the tree planting that has been undertaken by the Council. There will be a positive
impact on material assets and population as this service will attract people to the city. There will be both positive and negative
impacts on human health due to the loss of open space from the development of the site and the social inclusion from the
development of a new place of worship.
OP13 Land at
Grandhome
-
-
-
-
-
0
--
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors and human health due to the size of
the development and its location on a Greenfield site. The development will have a significant impact on landscape if it is not
designed sensitively. It will have no impact on cultural heritage. The development will have a positive affect on material assets
and population as it will provide housing that will attract people to the city.
OP136
Loirsbank Road,
Cults
-
-
-
--
-
-
--
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, climatic factors, cultural heritage and human health due to the
location of the proposed development on a Greenfield site. There will be a significant negative impact on biodiversity and
landscape due to the site being located south of the North Deeside Line and near the River Dee SAC.
OP56 North
Lasts Quarry
--
-
-
-
-
0
--
+
0
0
The current use on this site has negative impacts on water, soil, biodiversity and climatic factors due to the nature of the use.
There are significant negative impacts on air due to dust creation and landscape. There is no effect on cultural heritage,
population and human health. There are positive impacts on material assets due to the sustainable materials quarried.
OP71 Blackhills
Quarry, Cove
--
-
-
-
-
0
--
+
0
0
The current use on this site has negative impacts on water, soil, biodiversity and climatic factors due to the nature of the use.
There are significant negative impacts on air due to dust creation and landscape. There is no effect on cultural heritage,
population and human health. There are positive impacts on material assets due to the sustainable materials quarried.
OP57 Pinewood
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
The
development of this site will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, landscape and human
health due to the size of the development and it’s location on a Greenfield site. There will be no effect on cultural heritage. There
will be positive impacts on material assets and population.
117
SEA Topics
Policy Options
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
ClimaticFactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP68 Skene
Road,
Hazlehead
0
0
-
-
0
0
-
0
0
0
The proposed development of this site will have no effect on air, water, climatic factors, cultural heritage, material assets,
population and human health. There will be negative impacts on soil, biodiversity and landscape due to the nature of the
development.
OP75
Stationfields,
Cove
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
+
+
This
development will have a negative impact on air, water, soil, biodiversity, climatic factors, cultural heritage, landscape and
human health due to the size of the proposed development on a Greenfield site. The development will have a positive impact on
material assets and population as it will provide more housing and attract more people into the city.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
118
Appendix 7.k: Assessment of Alternative Sites
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
General
Alternative sites
--
--
--
--
--
++/--
--
++
++
++
The impacts of the alternatives are similar to those identified for the preferred greenfield sites. However, for one or a number of the
following reasons: valuable habitats, significant impact on cultural heritage, unacceptable landscape impacts, sites at risk from
flooding, and developments in less sustainable locations that will increase commuting and have more profound impacts on air quality
and climatic factors, these sites have been identified has having a more significant adverse environmental impact. In the case of the
sites identified in this table it may not be possible to amend the proposal to lessen the impact on the specific indicator. For each site
the main reason differs, and these reasons have been detailed in the comments box.
A - 2/02
Mundurno
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This area plays an important role in the landscape setting of the
city in preventing coalescence and development could have a significant impact. Existing habitats would be affected by the
development.
A - 2/03
Mundurno
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
---
+
+
+ As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This area plays an important role in the landscape setting of the
city in preventing coalescence and development could have a significant impact. Existing habitats would be affected by the
development.
A - 2/06 Land
adjacent to the
Old Ellon Road
---
-
-
-
---
+/-
-
++
++
0
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. This site has been proposed for employment or housing
development and would be likely to result in significant commuter traffic and impact on air and climate given its remoteness from the
existing urban area. However, it also has the potential to positively affect material assets. Development is on a flood risk category D
site and could be vulnerable to future climate changes. There would be no significant impacts on human health as a result of this
development.
A - 2/07
Triangular Field
at Blackdog
--
-
-
-
--
+/-
---
++
++
0
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. With wide ranging views from the A90 and village of Blackdog
there may be significant impacts on the landscape. Development would positively affect the economy of the area by potentially
providing more jobs potentially help support existing services in the area and most likely potentially develop commercial and business
land will promote the creation of commercial and industrial assets.
A - 2/14 Land at
Mill of Mundurno
-
---
-
---
---
---
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. There is the potential for any development on this site to have a
negative affect on cultural heritage, due to the fact that the whole site is recorded under the Sites and Monuments Record as the “Mill
of Mundurno Linear Crop marks”. The northern and eastern boundaries of this site are considered as at risk of flooding from rivers,
development on this site could significantly change this flood risk, and/or alter the flow of flood waters.
A - 2/04 Land
East of
Denmore Road
---
-
-
---
-
+/-
-
+/--
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Proposal is for retail development, which would increase
commuter traffic and negatively impact air quality. Development would result in the loss of playing fields, which would impact
negatively on material assets.
A – 2/20
Denmore Road
--
-
-
---
---
+/-
-
+
+
-/+
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. The burn originating at Corby loch runs along the west and south
perimeters of the site and the site is at risk from flooding and would be vulnerable to climate change and would affect human health.
Employment development would increase commuter traffic in the area and impact on air quality.
A - 2/15
Denmore Road,
Bridge of Don
---
-
-
--
-
+/-
-
+/-
+
+/As
per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Proposal is for retail development, which would increase
commuter traffic and negatively impact air quality. Development would result in the loss of playing fields, which would impact
negatively on material assets and human health.
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Comment
A - 2/18 Murcar
--
---
-
--
---
+/-
---
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Large scale development is likely to significantly impact on air,
water, soil, climate, material assets, population and human health. Development would result in the potential loss of land identified as
Undeveloped Coastal Management Area. Development would have a significant negative impact on the landscape: impacts on
vantage points and views across sand dunes, which is a primary landscape as classified by the landscape strategy for Aberdeen.
Areas of the site are at risk from flooding and site may be vulnerable to future climate changes.
B - 2/16 Land at
Perwinnes
--
--
-
--
--
+/-
---
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Large scale development is likely to significantly impact on air,
water, soil, climate, material assets, population and human health. Prominent site whose development would erode the hilly green
backdrop to Bridge of Don and which could add to the sense of urban sprawl.
B - 2/17
Causewayend,
Bridge of Don
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment. It will severely impact on the surrounding landscape to the north and will be very prominent
from Scotstown Road.
B - 2/10
Scotstown Road
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
---
+
+
+ As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. There would be major negative impacts on biodiversity and
landscape features due to the potential effects on a District Wildlife Site and woodland on the site.
B - 2/09
Middleton Park
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
--/+
+
+/---
As per general greenfield assessment. Development would result in an area of open space within an urban area without good access
to open space, therefore significant impacts on human health and negative impacts on material assets.
B - 2/12
Glashieburn,
Bridge of Don
-
-
-
---
---
+/--
--
-/+
+
--/+
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Significant negative affect on the biodiversity, landscape and
cultural heritage as development would result in the loss and disturbance of TPOs. A burn runs through the site and the site could be
vulnerable to future climate changes. Development would also result in the loss of urban green space and impact negatively on
material assets and human health.
B - 2/13
Balgownie
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
-/+
+
+/---
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. Development would also result in the loss of urban greenspace
and impact negatively on material assets. It would also have a significant negative impact on human health as a result of the loss of a
large area of open space within the urban area.
C - 1/17
Greenferns
Landward
---
---
---
---
---
+/---
---
++
++
++
As per Greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This alternative proposal includes the whole area of land owned by the
Council and includes Brimmond Hill. The scale of development is likely to result in significant impacts on air, water, soil, climate,
material assets, population and human health. Development will have a significant impact on landscape and may lead to coalescence.
The Bucks Burn District Wildlife Sites - Brimmond Hill, Gough Burn, Burnbrae Moss and Bucksburn Gorge all situated within or
adjacent to the site, which are at risk from flooding and will negatively impact on climate and biodiversity. The site also lies adjacent to
a number of small areas of Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodland.
C - 1/02 Upper
Farburn
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
0
As per general greenfield assessment. This is a proposal for airport related uses and it would increase commuter traffic and would not
have any significant impact on human health.
C - 1/09 Devil’s
Den, Woodside
-
---
-
---
---
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The land to the north of the site is identified as being at risk of
flooding on SEPA website. DWS runs along the southern boundary and River Don DWS situated 250m north of the site boundary at
its closest point. River Don is also bound by areas of Ancient Woodland along the north and south banks of the river and
development may have significant impacts on biodiversity.
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Comment
C - 1/10
Bankhead
Playing Fields
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
--/+
+
+/---
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development would result in the loss of playing fields, in an
urban area which would have a negative impact on material assets and have significant negative impacts on human health.
C - 1/18 West
Woods,
Craibstone
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
--
+
+
--/+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This site has a large amount of woodland and with this it can be
expected that there is a wide variety of habitats and species and this area of woodland is a significant landscape feature. This site
has two major gas pipelines that run through the western portion of the site. The consultation zones take up the majority of the site
and only leave a small area of the site that is free from constraints. Development on this site could negatively impact on human health.
C - 1/15 Land at
Newton Farm
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
---
+
+
--/+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This site has a major gas pipeline that runs through the western
portion of the site. The consultation zones take up the majority of the site and only leave a small area of the site that is free from
constraints. Development on this site could negatively impact on human health. The site would extend beyond the route of the AWPR
and encroaches on Kirkhill and there could be significant negative impacts on landscape.
C - 1/19 Site at
Stoneywood
Terrace
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This site is part of an area of woodland and development would
result in the loss of trees, which would have a significant impact on landscape and biodiversity.
D - 1/11 Land at
Tyrebagger
Quarry
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Employment development will have positive impacts on the
economy and material assets. However, development on this site will impact negatively on biodiversity given that the site is a DWS.
D - 1/16 Land at
Little Clinterty
-
--
-
---
---
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The Black Burn passes through this site, there are parts of the
immediately adjacent ground that flood, and as such there are likely to be some valuable habitat areas along the edges of the
watercourses. Area of site is at risk from flooding and may be vulnerable to the effects of climate change. This is also a prominent site
on a main gateway and will have a significant impact on landscape.
D – 1/07
Clinterty
--
--
--
---
---
+/-
---
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. A large development is likely to have significant impacts on air,
water, soil, material assets, population and human health. The Black Burn passes through this site, there are parts of the immediately
adjacent ground that flood, and as such there are likely to be some valuable habitat areas along the edges of the watercourses. This
site is very visible when approaching Blackburn from the A96 and this development would impact on the landscape setting of the area.
Development would also be at risk from future climate changes. This site will be highly visible from surrounding hills including
Brimmond Hill.
E - 3/02
Kingswells, East
-
-
-
--
--
--
---
+
+
+
As per general Greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The most significant impact this site will have is its visual
intrusion on the landscape. It sits on a high slope and is visible from all of old Kingswells and the transport routes surrounding the
village. There are stone dykes surrounding the site, and one further splitting it in two. It is possible these will be lost if the site was
developed. Significant impact on climate as a result of the size of development.
E - 3/05
Kingswells
Community
Expansion
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Certain areas of the site, if developed, would have significant
effect on landscape, particularly the landscape setting of Brimmond Hill and District Wildlife Sites around Kingswells. The
development could also have a detrimental effect on biodiversity. It is felt that development could not avoid having significant impacts
on the landscape and these impacts would be permanent.
E - 3/04
Woodend West
-
-
-
---
---
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general Greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. There will be negative impacts on landscape and positive
impacts from the improvement of the public open space. There is a burn at the bottom of the valley may be prone to flooding. The
North Burn of Rubislaw is a District Wildlife Site and development may have a significant negative impact on biodiversity.
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Comment
E - 3/14
Kingswells East
-
-
-
--
-
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. There will be significant impacts on the landscape resulting from
development. The site includes Newpark Hill and occupies a significant position within the landscape. It is highly visible from
Sheddocksley, Kingswells, and the surrounding landscape. There are stone dykes marking out field boundaries in the area. These
features could be lost if the site was developed.
E - 3/11 Newton
East, Old Skene
House
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development is likely to have a significant impact on the
landscape, as the site is higher than the surrounding land.
E - 9/54
Huxterstone
--
-
-
--
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Proposal for retail development and business development will
have a significant impact on the landscape in the area. Retail use on this site is also likely to increase car trips and impact negatively
on air quality. Potential to cause major changes in primary landscape and the proportion of open space. Views to the north of this site
would be significantly impacted by a business park development of this size. Kingshill Wood is located to the southwest of the site and
there is a number of priority habitats associated with the woods, and development has the potential to impact on habitats.
G - 9/53 Bellfield
Farm
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development at Bellfield Farm would intrude significantly into the
surrounding landscape.
F - 9/22
Countesswells
--
--
--
---
-
+/-
--
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. A large development, Countesswells will lead to damage being
caused to an area that is relatively unspoilt land. The scale of development will have significant impacts on air, water, soil, material
assets, population and human health. Negative impact on biodiversity with damage to District Wildlife Sites. Development may have
negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Development on this site would likely cause
significant loss and disturbance to the wildlife habitat and species. The proposal is for 500 units to be developed and therefore due to
the site consisting heavily of trees and farmland it is inevitable that there will be a significant loss or disturbance to the natural
conservation. The area to the south of the site is covered by Foggieton District Wildlife Site and also to the West and South of the site
are priority habitats. Surrounding the site are several priority habitats and further south is Murtle Den District Wildlife Site. Therefore
any development on this site would result in a likely loss or disturbance of significant wildlife habitats or species.
F - 9/41
Baillieswells
Road West
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The site’s role as a wildlife corridor between a District Wildlife
Site and Priority habitats could be adversely affected by development. It is not a prominent site from main approaches, but will have a
significant impact on the landscape when approaching Bieldside on Baillieswells Road allows views over South Deeside. The built up
settlement of Bieldside steps down towards the surrounding countryside, with the adjacent house being the first built element on the
approach. A cluster of houses in this location would disturb that gentle transition form urban to rural. Development may have negative
affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Foggieton District Wildlife Site 150m to the south west of the
site. Ancient Woodland to the north of the site. Priority habitats 65m to the east and 115m to the north of the site. Possible habitat
network role of site.
G - 9/52
Baillieswells
Road East
-
--
-
---
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site area is covered by 2 hectares of Ancient and Semi-natural Woodland and also
to the West of the site is a priority habitat. Surrounding the site is a large expanse of Ancient Woodland adding to 59.9 hectares.
Therefore any development on this site would result in a likely loss or disturbance of significant wildlife habitats or species.
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G - 9/32
Netherton
Lodge, Bieldside
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site is within an Ancient Woodland. The site is also adjacent to a priority habitat
and is surrounded densely by ancient and semi natural woodlands. There will be significant obtrusion to the surrounding landscape as
it would appear sporadic and isolated from the built up area.
F - 9/38
Derncleugh
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Disturbance to the mature tree lines around the site, which work
to effectively shield the site from surrounding viewpoints may impact negatively on landscape and biodiversity. Development may have
negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity.
E - 3/15
Cadgerford
Farm, Westhill
-
-
-
--
---
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. There is flooding associated with the Brodiach Burn, which is
adjacent to the west edge of the site and development on this site may be at risk to future changes in climate. Development in this
location would impact significantly on the rolling agricultural landscape to the south of Westhill. Development would be highly visible
from the surrounding fields.
G - 9/17
Peterculter
West
-
-
-
----
-
+/-
-
+
+
+ As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. DWS along Deeside Railway through centre of site. Culter Burn
DWS adjacent to the north east boundary. Large area of TPOs (ref 80 & 97) to the north east. River Dee & Culter Burn SAC adjacent
to north east boundary. Small watercourse (Temple Burn) within site. Development is likely to have a significant negative impact on
biodiversity. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Development is
of a large scale and will have more significant impacts on water, soil, climate, cultural heritage, landscape, material assets, population
and human health.
G - 9/30 Denmill
--
--
--
---
--
+/-
--
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Due to the potential size of this development (up to 72 ha), it
could have significant impacts on air, water, soil, climate, material assets, population and human health. Development may have
negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Development may have negative affects on the River
Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site also covers part of the south lasts mire District Wildlife site and borders
the Culter Burn District Wildlife Site to the west and the site may be vulnerable to future climate changes.
G - 9/26
Woodend,
Culter
-
--
--
---
--
+/-
---
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site also borders the Culter Burn District Wildlife Site to the west and the site may
impact negatively on flooding and future climate changes. The site is highly visible and is divorced from the main settlement and will
have a significant impact on landscape. Development is of a large scale and will have more significant impacts on water, soil, climate,
cultural heritage, landscape, material assets, population and human health.
G - 9/25 Land at
West Craigton,
Peterculter
-
-
-
--
---
+/-
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site also borders the Culter Burn District Wildlife Site to the west and the site may
be vulnerable to future climate changes. This is a highly visible site and development may have a significant impact on landscape.
Development is small and is not in close proximity to services and may increase travel by car and impact negatively on climate.
G - 9/46
Malcolm Road
West,
Peterculter
-
-
-
--
--
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site also borders the Culter Burn District Wildlife Site to the west and the site may
be vulnerable to future climate changes. This site is visually prominent and may have significant impacts on landscape and cultural
heritage.
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Comment
G - 9/33 Site at
Malcolm Road,
Peterculter
-
-
-
-
--
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site also borders the Culter Burn District Wildlife Site to the west and the site may
be vulnerable to future climate changes. This site is visually prominent and may have significant impacts on landscape and cultural
heritage.
G - 9/02
Peterculter
North
-
--
-
--
-
+/-
---
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Large development is likely to have significant impacts on Air,
water, soil, material assets, population and human health. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of
Conservation and biodiversity. The site is highly visible and is divorced from the main settlement and will have a significant impact on
landscape.
G - 9/47 Land at
Malcolm Road,
Peterculter
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. This site is prominent in the landscape and development may have significant long
term negative impacts on landscape.
G - 9/03
Kennerty Road
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Ancient Woodland status covers the whole of the site and the Culter Burn District
Wildlife Site and the SAC (River Dee) and TPO 80 are immediately to the west of the site and development of this site may have a
significant long term negative impact on biodiversity. The site sits in a visually prominent strip of tree and scrub land within the area
and if developed the house would be the only development on the north side of Kennerty Road within that vicinity. The site forms an
important vista along Kennerty Road, and development would result in long term negative impacts on landscape.
G - 9/15 Hill of
Ardbeck,
Peterculter
-
-
-
---
-
+/--
--
+
+
-/+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Potential loss of biodiversity on what is a District Wildlife Site.
Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Whole site covered by DWS
56 Hill of Ardbeck. DWS 55 Culter House Woods lie to immediate east and DWS 58 Woodend Woods to the immediate north. Ancient
woodland to the north and east – part of which encroaches onto the site and development would result in the loss of this material
asset and would impact negatively on biodiversity. Development would also have a significant impact on the landscape and cultural
heritage. Development would also result in the loss of accessible open space and have a negative impact on human health.
G - 9/35 Land
near Culter
House Road
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Site covers Guttrie Hill DWS, development will impact negatively on biodiversity. Visible
site will have a significant impact on landscape.
G - 9/49
Contlaw
--
--
--
---
--
+/-
---
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This site has a large amount of woodland and with this it can be
expected that there is a wide variety of habitats and species. There is some identified priority habitats associated with existing areas of
woodland. Development could potentially have impact on habitats. The site is also within the catchment of the River Dee, which is part
of the Natura 2000 network. The site would be visible from the open farmland to the north, and from high ground around Kirkton of
Maryculter on the opposite valley side and development would have a negative impact on landscape. The scale of development will
have significant impacts on air, water, soil, material assets, population and human health.
G - 9/51 Nether
Beanshill
--
--
--
---
--
+/-
---
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This site has a large amount of woodland and with this it can be
expected that there is a wide variety of habitats and species. There is some identified priority habitats associated with existing areas of
woodland. Development could potentially have impact on habitats. The site is also within the catchment of the River Dee, which is part
of the Natura 2000 network. The site would be visible from the open farmland to the north, and from high ground around Kirkton of
Maryculter on the opposite valley side and development would have a negative impact on landscape. The scale of development will
have significant impacts on air, water, soil, material assets, population and human health.
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Comment
G - 9/48 Albyn
School,
Milltimber
-
-
-
--
-
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. This site is prominent and development will have a negative impact on landscape.
Development here may contribure towards the coalescence of Peterculter and Milltimber, which would impact upon the character and
amenity of the area and the separate identity of the two communities therefore there may be a significant impact on landscape and
cultural heritage.
G - 9/18
Milltimber South
-
-
-
--
--
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Potential detrimental impact of development on local landscape,
cultural heritage and excellent views across the Deeside Valley. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special
Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Parts of this site are at risk from flooding and development may have a significant negative
impact on climate.
G - 9/37 47
Contlaw Road,
Milltimber
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Priority habitat covers approx. 25% of the site and ancient woodland approx.50% of the
site and development may impact negatively on biodiversity.
G - 9/10 North
Deeside Road,
Milltimber
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Development would result in the loss of trees and impact on the surrounding
landscape.
G - 9/13
Pinelands,
Murtle Den
-
-
-
---
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. SEPA map indicates flooding area to immediate east around the lake, although the
ground rises quickly away from this the site may be at risk from future climate changes. Site is adjacent to Murtle Den DWS and
development may impact negatively on biodiversity.
G - 9/36 Murtle
Den Road,
Milltimber
-
-
-
--
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The Murtle Den DWS is approximately 30 meters north of the site. Development will
impact negatively on biodiversity. The site is very prominent from north Deeside road and may have a long term significant impact on
landscape.
G - 9/04
Dalmunzie
-
-
-
--
---
+/--
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Due to the elevation of the site there is the potential for any
development to have a negative affect on landscape. There is also the potential for a negative affect on the built/cultural history of the
site and a negative affect on woodlands. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and
biodiversity. This site is detached from the existing settlement and is unlikely to deliver any services, therefore residents will be heavily
reliant on the car and this will have a negative impact on climate.
G - 9/07 The
Waterwheel Inn,
North Deeside
-
-
-
--
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. A burn passes through this site and development may be at risk from flooding and
vulnerable to future climate changes. The proposal includes a food store and in this location it would not encourage walking trade and
would increase car use and have a negative impact on climate.
G - 9/14 The
Waterwheel
-
-
-
--
---
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development will include redevelopment of a listed building,
which will have a mixed impact on the cultural heritage of the site if not designed sensitively. Development may have negative affects
on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. A burn passes through this site and development may be at risk from
flooding and vulnerable to future climate changes.
125
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
G - 9/08 Land at
Deeside Golf
Club
-
-
-
--
-
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The development would cause significant intrusion to the surrounding landscape. The
site is south of the Deeside Line which acts as a buffer between development to the north and more open greenspace and countryside
to the south resulting in a negative impact on cultural heritage.
G - 9/06
Denwood,
Craigton Road
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site has a large amount of tree cover and it is expected that there are a variety of
habitats that would be disturbed through development.
G - 9/20
Thornhill,
Craigton
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development of the site presents significant risks for the two
priority habitats on the site and how the role of the site in the network of wildlife habitats may be affected. Development may have
negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Site contains two priority habitats, covering roughly
one third of the site and development is likely to impact negatively on biodiversity. Development will breach the skyline and have
significant long term negative impacts on the surrounding landscape.
G - 9/09
Residential Infill
Site, South
Cults
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. The site contains a large amount of mature trees and this would be lost through
development and will impact negatively on landscape. Immediately south of the site is a designated District Wildlife Site, development
has the potential to impact on this area.
9/19 Site at
Craigton Road,
Cults
-
-
-
---
---
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. This is an isolated development that will increase car use and will have a negative
impact on climate.
G - 10/02
Dobbies Garden
Centre,
Hazelhead
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. There is a small stream/burn which runs to the south of the site, and development may
be at risk from flooding and vulnerable to future climate changes. There is a strong possibility that development within some areas of
the site would cause a likely loss or disturbance of significant wildlife habitat or species. Within the site there are 4 priority habitats, 3
of them being in the South-west corner of the site and one being east of the pond within the site.
G - 9/40
Inchgarth
-
-
-
---
-
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The site is the largest undeveloped field on the south site of
Inchgarth Road between Cults and Garthdee, though is visually contained by the tall Ancient Woodland running around the perimeter
of the site. Development on the site would risk severing the wildlife corridor between the two settlements of Cults and Garthdee. If tree
felling were required to gain access to the site, this may compromise the site’s role in separating the two settlements, and would itself
have an adverse nature conservation impact this would have significant long term impacts on biodiversity, landscape and cultural
heritage. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity.
G - 9/28
Inchgarth Road
-
-
-
---
-
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The site is the largest undeveloped field on the south site of
Inchgarth Road between Cults and Garthdee, though is visually contained by the tall Ancient Woodland running around the perimeter
of the site. Development on the site would risk severing the wildlife corridor between the two settlements of Cults and Garthdee. If tree
felling were required to gain access to the site, this may compromise the site’s role in separating the two settlements, and would itself
have an adverse nature conservation impact this would have significant long term impacts on biodiversity, landscape and cultural
heritage. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity.
126
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
H - 13/01
Peterseat Park
-
-
-
--
-
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Proposal to extend existing business development may impact
negatively on air quality in the Wellington Road area. An extension to industrial land, development with potential negative impacts on
cultural heritage and the landscape with skyline issues. Development may impact negatively on archaeology, which would have
negative impacts on cultural heritage. There would be positive impacts on material assets, the population and the economy.
Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity.
H - 13/07 Rigifa
-
-
-
-
-
+/-
-
+
+
---
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. A medium sized housing development with retail, small business
premises and open space. The most significant impact is the issue relating to safety as the Blackhills Quarry to the south west of the
site uses blasting. A 250m exclusion zone was imposed by the Council previously, this may impact negatively on human health.
H - 13/08
Banchory and
Leggart
-
--
--
--
-
+/-
--
++
++
++
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development will have major positive benefits on the social and
economic considerations due to the scale and mix of uses that would be provided. However there could be major impacts on water
and biodiversity due to the site being located within the catchment of the River Dee SAC. Scale of development will have significant
impacts on water, soil, biodiversity, landscape, material assets, population and human health.
11/02 Site at
Ramsay
Gardens
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
-
-/+
-/+
---
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. There is the potential for a negative affect on the community,
health and wellbeing and the population if the bowling green facility was to be removed and there was any loss of other recreation
facilities or open space. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity.
12/01 St Fitticks
-
-
-
--
-
+/--
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. The site’s close proximity to open space and the Balnagask golf
course means that development north of St Fitticks Road will have a negative impact on the landscape character and cultural heritage
of the area. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity.
10/01 Woodend
Lodges North
-
-
-
---
---
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Small burn to the north of the site may lead to flooding on-site
and the site may be vulnerable to future changes in climate. The burn is a district wildlife site and development may impact negatively
on biodiversity.
6/01 Hillhead
Centre, Old
Aberdeen
Brownfield?
-
-
-
-
-
---
--
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Positive impacts include the creation of a Nursery and upgrading
sports facilities. However, there would be negative impacts on the landscape and biodiversity of the area. This site is within a
conservation area and this development is likely to have a significant negative impact on cultural heritage.
OP133 Mid
Anguston,
Peterculter
-
-
-
---
-
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Negative affect on biodiversity, due to the fact that the Southeast
corner of site is zoned as ‘District Wildlife Site – Mid Anguston Quarry. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity.
OP79 Blackhills
of Cairnrobbin
--
-
-
-
--
+/-
--
++
++
0
As per general greenfield assessment with the following exceptions. This site has been proposed for a large scale business park
development would be likely to result in significant commuter traffic and impact on air and climate. However, it also has the potential to
positively affect material assets. Development is on a flood risk category D site and could be vulnerable to future climate changes.
There would be no significant impacts on human health as a result of this development. A masterplan would be required for this site,
see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
127
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
OP54 Malcolm
Road,
Peterculter
-
-
-
--
-
+/-
---
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. Development may have negative affects on the River Dee
Special Area of Conservation and biodiversity. Site is predominantly covered by SNH Ancient Woodland zoning and development may
impact negatively on biodiversity. This site is prominent in the landscape and development may have significant long term negative
impacts on landscape.
Aberdeen
Beach
-
-
-/+
-
0
-
--
++
0
The
development at Aberdeen Beach would result in the loss of recreational land, it is a highly visible location and the
nature of the development would not be one which could be disguised. It is close to the River Dee SAC and there could be
potential impacts on the qualifying features and water quality. There are potential contaminants on site and development
could have a positive impact as a result of remediation. There is unlikely to be any long term negative impacts on air
quality as development would be replacing an existing stadium in close proximity.
Loirston Loch
-
-
-
--
-
-
--
++
0
0
The development at Loirston would result in the loss of recreational land. , it is a highly visible location and the nature of
the development would not be one which could be disguised. It is close to the River Dee SAC and there could be potential
impacts on the qualifying features and water quality, this impact is greater than at Aberdeen Beach as there are streams
that lead from this site to the River Dee. Some potential impacts on cultural heritage as there have been some possible
archaeological features identified. There would be a negative impact on local air quality as a result of development.
OP27 Land near
Bucksburn
School
-
-
-
-
--
+/-
-
+
+
+
As per general greenfield assessment, with the following exceptions. This site is a flood risk category C site and it could be vulnerable
to future climate changes. A masterplan would be required for this site, see the masterplan section of this table and the assessment of
master plan policies in Appendix 7.l.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
128
Appendix 7.l: Sites Identified for Masterplanning
SEA Topics
Sites
Air
Water
Soil
Biodiversity
Climaticfactors
CulturalHeritage
Landscape
MaterialAssets
Population
Humanhealth
Comment
1. Dubford and
Murcar
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP25 and OP2.
2. Grandhome An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP12 and OP10.
3. Stoneywood An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP24.
4. Newhills
Expansion and
Dyce Drive
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP26, OP29, OP27, OP30, OP28, OP31.
5. Greenferns An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP45.
6. Maidencraig An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP43 and OP44.
7. Kingswells An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP40 and OP41 and OP42.
8.
Countesswells
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP58.
9. Friarsfield An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP51.
10. Oldfold
Farm
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP62.
11. Loirston An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP79, OP78, OP76 and OP77.
Greenferns
(OP2) and
Greenferns
SHLR including
10 ha -
employment
land
(1)
-
-
0
0/-
0/-
0
+/-
++
++
+
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP2 and Greenferns SHLR (masterplanned together)
This is a large development which would lead to substantial increase in water abstraction and waste generation. Landscape
impacts would be present if not sensitively treated as it is quite a visible site from Northfield in particular. There would however,
be substantial benefits in terms of proving fixed assets, including housing, business and community uses and there could be a
positive knock on effect for the local economy. Emerging development framework indicates up to 1400 units possible.
East Woodcroft
North
(1)
-
-
-
-
-
0
-
+
+
0
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: 2/08
Murcar
(1)
Including 20 ha
of employment
land
-
--
?
+
--
0
0
-
+
0
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: 2/18 (part)
129
Balgownie
Centre (OP19)
0/-
-
0
0
0/-
0
0/-
+
+
0
This site is surplus to Aberdeen College’s requirements and is considered for residential development. Positive impacts include
enhanced material assets and the re-use of a derelict site. Potential negative cumulative impacts include negative affects in CO2
concentrations, waste production, and water abstraction.
Cummings Park
See map 12
0
0
0
0
+/-
0
0
+
+
0
The Cummings Park regeneration project would have a positive impact on population and material assets through the provision
of new social housing. There would be mixed impacts on climate as the development would create waste, but new housing would
be more energy efficient. The redevelopment would otherwise have neutral impacts.
Northfield
See map13
0
0
0
0
+/-
0
0
+
+
0
The Northfield regeneration project would have a positive impact on population and material assets through the provision of new
social housing. There would be mixed impacts on climate as the development would create waste, but new housing would be
more energy efficient. The redevelopment would otherwise have neutral impacts.
Middlefield
See map 14
+
0
0
0/-
+/-
+
0
+
+
0
This development would include junction improvements at Haudagain, and replacing the existing housing on an area of open
space to the west. The redevelopment would also incorporate limited retailing. The development would have a positive impact on
air quality in the area, and the provision of new social housing would support the population. There would be mixed impacts on
climate as the development would create waste, but new housing would be more energy efficient.
Granitehill
0
0
++
0
0
0
0
+
0
+
Granitehill Road/Quarry Road/Marchburn Road, currently Business and Industrial Land with links to surrounding regeneration
areas. Continued use as employment land, although consideration to be given to other uses through a development framework.
Redevelopment would involve the clean up of contaminated land.
Broadford
Works
0
-/0
++
0
-/0
++
0
o
+
0/+
Estimated 400 units. Distinctive and self-contained area of townscape with obvious scope for development as an ‘Urban Village’.
A relatively large development with potential negative impacts of water abstraction and waste generation. Positive impacts
include clean-up of contaminated land, and increased residential material assets within the City Centre.
City Centre
+
0
0
0
+
+
+
+
+
++
This development framework would set the principles for development in the city centre. In particular it would address issues
such as: access and movement, improved design, and assess the function and uses for different character areas of the city
centre.
Woodside
See map 14
0
0
0
0
+/-
0
0
+
+
0
The Woodside regeneration project would have a positive impact on population and material assets through the provision of new
social housing. There would be mixed impacts on climate as the development would create waste, but new housing would be
more energy efficient. The redevelopment would otherwise have neutral impacts.
Foresterhill
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
+
+
++
Hospital redevelopment, associated transport and public realm improvements. This development will be of major benefit to the
Aberdeen Community, by enhancing and modernising healthcare provision and facilities.
Upper & Lower
Hospitals,
Berryden
0
0
+
0
+
+
+
+
+
+
Former hospital site, redevelopment for mix of uses, residential, office/business, community uses. Within conservation area,
substantial granite buildings. Planning brief required.
Tillydrone
See map 14
0
0
0
0
+/-
0
0
+
+
0
The Tillydrone regeneration project would have a positive impact on population and material assets through the provision of new
social housing. There would be mixed impacts on climate as the development would create waste, but new housing would be
more energy efficient. The redevelopment would otherwise have neutral impacts.
The Beach, see
Map 11.
0
0/-
0
0
0/-
0
0/-
+
+
0/+
Masterplan outlining a concept and vision for the regeneration of Aberdeen Beach including possible projects such as an Energy
Futures Centre, Community Stadium, urban regeneration, Mosque and enhancement of open space.
Seaton
See map 14
0
0
0
0
+/-
0
0
+
+
0
The Seaton regeneration project would have a positive impact on population and material assets through the provision of new
social housing. There would be mixed impacts on climate as the development would create waste, but new housing would be
more energy efficient. The redevelopment would otherwise have neutral impacts.
Aberdeen
Harbour / North
and South Dee
0
-/0
+
0
0/-
0/+
0
+
+
0
North Dee – concentrate on commercial uses.
South Dee – mixed use and include residential, business and leisure.
The north part of the site is zoned as Specialist Employment Area and the south side is zoned as OP129.
130
Torry
See map 14
0
0
0
0
+/-
0
0
+
+
0
The Torry regeneration project would have a positive impact on population and material assets through the provision of new
social housing. There would be mixed impacts on climate as the development would create waste, but new housing would be
more energy efficient. The redevelopment would otherwise have neutral impacts.
Pinewood and
Hazledene
(OP120 & OP4)
-/+
-
0
0/-
-/+
0
0
+
+
+
Development of 300 units in this location would fit within the landscape and provide an attractive living environment. Development
is close to existing transport routes and facilities.
Friarsfield and
Morkeu OP5
0
0
0
0/+
-
0
-/0
+
+
0
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP5, 9/01, 9/21 and 9/27 (part) (masterplanned together). Development in this area would extend and consolidate existing
transport corridors. Currently zoned for residential in the local plan. Would impact positively on population and material assets.
Creation of park alongside Cults Burn would be beneficial on wildlife and biodiversity. Access and junction improvements would
be needed.
Countesswells
Including 10 ha
of employment
land
0
--
0
-
--
0
0
++
++
0
An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: 9/24, 9/05 and 9/50 (masterplanned together)
Garthdee
Development
Framework
0
0
0
0/-
+
0
0/+
++
0
0/+
Campus redevelopment and improvement. This has positive impacts for the provision of secondary education facilities for the
city, respects the site landscape and topography and location as a ‘city gateway’ location. Sustainable construction methods and
LZC technologies are positive benefits to climate change.
North Garthdee
Farm
-
-
?
-
-
-
-
+
+
? An SEA has been undertaken as part of the Developer Options assessment.
Ref: OP65
Leggart Terrace
(OP122)
-
-
0
-
-
0
0/-
+
+
+
Housing development of 50 units. Development is within the catchment of the River Dee SAC and there are potential negative
impacts resulting from abstraction and run off. Through masterplanning impact on landscape and the River Dee can be mitigated.
Cove North
(OP9)
+/-
-
+
+
+/-
+
+
+
++
+
Zoned for residential use. Development would include community uses and green space. Constraint on the site due to existing
waste licence.
Stationfields,
Cove (OP8)
+
-
-
0
++
0
0
++
+
+
Residential development close to existing facilities to help deliver a railway station. A station in Cove would provide benefits for
all the residents in the area and would provide a more sustainable transport alternative.
Key: + positive, - negative, 0 = neutral =? = uncertain
131
Appendix 7.m: Links to other PPS & Env. Protection Objectives
Name of PPS / Environmental
protection objective
Requirements of the PPS How it affects, or is affected by
The ALDP in terms of SEA issues* at Schedule 3
of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act
2005
INTERNATIONAL
1. European Framework on
Sustainable Development 2001
2. EC Birds and Habitats
Directive
Protects all wild birds, their nests, eggs and habitats within the EC
Gives basis to classify Special Protection Areas to protect are and
vulnerable birds
Gives basis to classify Special Areas of Conservation and European
Protected Species.
Biodiversity, Fauna and flora
Strategies should ensure the protection of all wild,
rare and vulnerable birds, their nests, eggs and
habitats.
3. EC Birds Directive
79/409/EEC
Provide for the protection, management and control of all species of
naturally occurring wild birds;
Seeks to preserve habitats for naturally occurring, rare and migratory
species
Biodiversity, Fauna and flora
The Local Development Plan should not hinder
protection, management and control of species of
naturally occurring wild birds
4. Water Framework Directive
2000/60/EC
Safeguard the sustainable use of surface water; transitional waters,
coastal waters and groundwater
Supports the status of aquatic ecosystems and environments;
Addresses groundwater pollution; flooding and droughts; river basin
management planning.
Water
The Local Development Plan should consider
sustainable use of water and mitigate the effects of
floods and droughts
5. The Nitrates Directive
91/43/EEC
This Directive has the objective of:
Reducing water pollution caused or induced by nitrates from agricultural
sources; and
Preventing further such pollution.
The spatial strategy should not increase water
pollution caused or induced by nitrates from point
source pollution sources.
6. The Landfill Directive
99/31/EC
The Landfill Directive has derived a waste hierarchy, which starts at waste
minimisation and increasing the levels of recycling and recovery, and
facilitates a move towards sustainable waste management. It also sets
out demanding targets to reduce the amount of biodegradable municipal
landfilled up to 2020,
The Plan should reflect the needs of the Landfill
Directive, including the infrastructure required to meet
the municipal biodegradable waste targets to 2020.
7. Proposed Soil Framework
Directive
Proposed in the Thematic Strategy for Soil Protection (COM(2006)231),
the Directive will establish a European framework for the protection of the
soil with the aim of maintaining the capacity of the soil to fulfil ecological,
economic, social and cultural functions. Member States will be obligated to
take measures to reduce seven large-scale threats to European soils:
pollution, erosion, loss of organic matter, compaction, salinization, sealing
and earthquakes.
The plan should not increase the likelihood of soil
pollution or erosion from new developments.
8. The National Emission Sets ceilings for each Member State for emissions of ammonia, oxides of Although the Plan is not the tool to implement this
132
Ceilings Directive 2001/81/EC
(NECD)
nitrogen, sulphur dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which
are primarily responsible for acidification, eutrophication and ground-level
ozone. The ceilings must be met by 2010, and requires each State to draw
up national programmes to demonstrate how they are going to meet the
national emissions ceilings.
Directive, it should reflect the purpose of the Directive
and propose sites for development and strategic
objectives that will improve air quality in the region,
such as Aberdeen’s city centre.
9. The Waste Framework
Directive 2006/12/EC
Is implemented by the Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994,
the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Pollution Prevention and
Control (Scotland) Regulations 2000.
Requires the planning system to provide policies and sites for waste
disposal.
Recovery or disposal of waste without endangering human health and
without processes or methods which could harm the environment.
Liaison with local authorities and between planning authorities and
SEPA.
Provide the right infrastructure for the new thematic strategy on the
prevention and recycling of waste.
The Plan should identify suitable locations for largescale
waste management facilities to meet the
Directive (and Landfill Directive and Area Waste
Plan) whilst safeguarding the natural and built
environment including designated areas, green belts,
open countryside and the coast.
10. Council Directive
2005/0183/EC Ambient air
quality and cleaner air for
Europe
Defines and establishes objectives for ambient air quality designed to
avoid, prevent or reduce harmful effects on human health and the
environment as a whole
Although the Plan is not the tool to implement this
Directive, it should reflect the purpose of the Directive
and propose sites for development and strategic
objectives that will improve air quality in the region,
such as Aberdeen’s city centre.
11. Council Directive
2002/96/EC on waste electrical
and electronic equipment
Tackles the increasing waste stream of electrical and electronic equipment
and complements European Union measures on landfill and incineration of
waste. It promotes the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment.
Although the Plan is not the tool to implement this
Directive it should reflect the needs of the Directive by
ensuring there is adequate infrastructure to recycle
and dispose of electronic equipment.
12. European Landscape
Convention (2000)
Encourages sustainable management, protection, and enhancement of
all landscapes and not solely just areas of exceptional quality. It further
promotes the cultural significance and social value of all landscapes and
not just sites of ‘heritage’ value.
Highlights the need to integrate landscape into regional and town
planning policies that may have direct or indirect impact on the
landscape.
The convention also draws attention to schemes such as the PanEuropean
Ecological Network (PEEN), which aims to secure the links
between the flora and fauna habitats of Europe, thereby compensating
for the fragmentation of landscapes.
Is promoted via Scottish Landscape Forum’s Scotland’s living
landscapes – places for people.
Consider how the Plan can maintain and restore
natural habitats to ensure biodiversity and
landscapes.
13. European Biodiversity
Framework
Promotes the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity
Emphasises education, training and awareness, research, identification,
monitoring and exchange of information
Biodiversity, Fauna and flora
The Local Development Plan should support the
conservation and sustainable use of biological
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diversity
14. European Framework on
sustainable development 2001
Promote qualify of life, coherent and costs effective policy-making;
technological innovation; stronger involvement of civil society; and
business in policy formulation
Strategies for sustainable economic growth should support social progress
and respect the local environment
All Issues
The Local Development Plan should support social
progress and respect the local environment
15. The Sixth Environmental
Action Programme of the
European Community
1600/2002/EEC
Promotes Clean Air for Europe (CAFÉ); Supports sustainable use of
pesticides, conservation of the maritime environment
Favours soil protection, waste prevention and recycling as well as
sustainable use of natural resources, and the urban environment
Air & Climatic factors
The Local Development Plan should ensure
sustainable use of natural resources, and the urban
environment
16. Planning to halt the loss of
biodiversity – Biodiversity
conservation standards for
planning in the UK – Code of
Practice (2006)
Biodiversity
17. Sustainable Development
and the Natural Heritage: The
SNH Approach
Biodiversity
18. Bathing Waters Directive
(EC Directive 76/160/EEC).
Its main objective is to protect public health and the environment from
faecal pollution at bathing waters
Water
19. 1992 OSPAR Convention for
the Protection of the Marine
Environment of the North East
Atlantic
The Convention has adopted several long-term strategies relating to
hazardous substances, radioactive substances, eutrophication and
protection of ecosystems and biodiversity (www.ospar.org);
Water
20. The EU Thematic Strategy
on Air Pollution (2005)
Sets out interim objectives for improving air quality
(http://ec.europa.eu/environment/air/cafe/index.htm)
Air
21. UN Framework Convention
on Climate Change 1992
An international environmental treaty produced at the United Nations
Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) (informally
known as the Earth Summit) held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. The treaty is
aimed at reducing emissions of greenhouse gases in order to combat
global warming.
Climate
22. Taking Sustainable Use of
Resources Forward: A Thematic
Strategy on the prevention and
recycling of waste (EU, 2005)
One of several sector-focused strategies produced under the
Environmental Action Programme
(http://ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/pdf/sec_2005_1682_en.pdf);
Climate
NATIONAL
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1. National Planning Framework
for Scotland (2004)
Promotes the development of City Regions.
Facilitates the regeneration of socially disadvantaged areas.
Facilitates the implementation of sustainable transport and other key
infrastructure.
Development of skills and the knowledge economy (accessibility).
Encourages environmental stewardship.
The Plan should take account of the spatial and
environmental issues set out in the NPF, such as:
Promoting the concepts of sustainable
development, community regeneration,
transportation infrastructure, and other
environmental issues; &
Ensuring land required to meet the city region’s
needs (e.g. infrastructure and affordable housing) is
delivered.
2. Climate Change (Scotland)
Act 2009
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low carbon
economy to help create a more successful country, with opportunities for
all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic
growth.
Climate, Material Assets, Population. Specifically
the plan should include policies to reduce the
greenhouse gas emissions of new development
through the implementation of low and zero carbon
generating technologies.
3. DTI (2007) Energy white
paper: meeting the energy
challenge
To reduce the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions – the main contributor to
global warming – by some 60% by 2050, with real progress by 2020.
Maintain the reliability of energy supplies.
Promote competitive markets in the UK and beyond.
Ensure that every home is adequately and affordably heated.
The Plan should contribute to meeting the
requirements of the White Paper.
4. Choosing Our Future:
Scotland’s Sustainable
Development Strategy
It highlights the need to build a sustainable future taking account of pubic
well-being (e.g. quality of life, food, and economic opportunities), travel,
natural resources and waste.
Consider objectives (and polices) that will lead to
sustainable communities.
5. Meeting the Needs, Priorities,
Actions and Targets for
Sustainable Development in
Scotland (2002)
Requires all new developments to be sustainable, and it sets out the
priorities for Scotland, which focus on resource use, energy use (e.g. fossil
fuels, energy efficiency and renewable energy), and transportation (e.g.
encouraging better land use planning, alternative service delivery and
sustainable transport systems).
Promote objectives (and policies) that promote
efficient resource use, energy efficiency and reduce
the need to travel by private car.
6. Changing Our Ways: Scottish
Climate Change Programme
It reaffirms local government responsibilities set out in Energy White Paper
and implements the Kyoto Protocol, which seeks to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions.
Include policies that:
Promote sustainable alternatives to car and reduce
congestion traffic pollution; and
Encourage sustainable development /landuse.
7. Air Quality Strategy for
England, Scotland, Wales and
Northern Ireland (2000)
Seeks to “render polluting emissions harmless”.
Sets objectives for protecting human health to be included in regulations
for the purposes of Local Air Quality Management relating to
concentrations of, amongst others, carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen
dioxide, ozone and particulates.
Air & Climatic factors
The Local Development Plan should improve local air
quality
8. Scotland’s Transport Future: Supports building, enhancing, managing and maintaining of transport All Issues
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The Transport White Paper
(2004)
services infrastructure and networks
Promote social inclusion; protect our environment and improve health
Improve safety of journeys
Improve integration by making journey planning and ticketing easier and
working to ensure smooth connection between different forms of transport.
The Local Development Plan should promote
economic growth, social inclusion, environmental
improvement, health and safety
9. Wildlife and Countryside Act
1981 (as amended)
Gives protection to listed species from disturbance, injury intentional
destruction or sale.
Biodiversity
The Local Development Plan should protect wildlife
from disturbance, injury and intentional destruction
10. The Nature Conservation
(Scotland) Act 2004
Sets out a series of measures, which are designed to conserve
biodiversity and to protect and enhance the biological and geological
natural heritage of Scotland.
Places a general duty on all public bodies to further the conservation of
biodiversity.
Biodiversity, flora & fauna
The Local Development Plan should promote and
protect biodiversity
11. UK Biodiversity Action Plan
(1994)
Seeks to conserve and enhance biological diversity within the UK and to
contribute to the conservation of global biodiversity through all appropriate
mechanisms.
Biodiversity, flora & fauna
The Local Development Plan should promote
biodiversity
12. Water Environment
(Controlled Activities) (Scotland)
Regulations 2005
Implements the obligations of section 20 of the Water Environment and
Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 (WEWS Act), and the requirements
of the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC).
Sets out the framework for protecting the water environment that
integrates the control of pollution, abstractions, dams and engineering
activities in the water environment.
The plan should not promote development that would
have adverse impacts on the water environment, and
lead to the authorities failing to ensure water bodies
achieve good ecological status, as required in the
Water Framework Directive by 2015.
13. SEPA (2006) Indicative
Flood Map
Provides an estimate at the national scale of areas at risk from river and
coastal flooding (areas with a 0.5% (1 in 200) or greater probability of
being flooded in any given year) and is to be used as a strategic flood
management tool.
The Plan should consider areas at high risk of
flooding from rivers and/or the sea and the possible
constraints it may have on the spatial strategy when
identifying settlements for development.
14. SEPA (2003) Groundwater
Protection Policy for Scotland:
Environmental Policy
To protect groundwater quality by minimising the risks posed by point and
diffuse sources of pollution, and to maintain the groundwater resource by
influencing the design of abstractions and developments, which could
affect groundwater quantity.
The spatial strategy should not adversely affect
ground water supplies, principally from water
abstraction and point source pollution.
15. The Conservation (Natural
Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994
(as amended)
These Regulations implement the Habitats and Wild Birds Directives. The
Regulations provide for the:
Designation and protection of ‘European sites’ (e.g. SACs);
Protection of ‘European protected species’ from deliberate harm; and
Adaptation of planning and other controls for the protection of European
The plan should not adversely affect habitats and
species protected under the Wild Birds and Habitats
Directives.
136
sites.
The Habitats Regulations only apply as far as the limit of territorial waters
(12 nautical miles from baseline).
16. The Conservation (Natural
Habitats, &c.) Amendment
(Scotland) Regulations 2007
The amended Regulations:
Simplifies the species protection regime to better reflect the Habitats
Directive;
Provides a clear legal basis for surveillance and monitoring of European
protected species (EPS);
Toughens the regime on trading EPS that are not native to the UK
Ensures that the requirement to carry out appropriate assessments on
water abstraction consents and land use plans is explicit
An appropriate assessment will be required where the
plan is likely to have a significant effect on a
European site.
17. Scottish Executive (2001) A
Policy Statement for Scotland
Designing Places
Development plans should:
Set out the council’s distinctive vision for how its area will develop. It
should summarise its appraisals of the most important features of the
area’s character and identity.
Have effective design policies, and urban design frameworks,
development briefs and master plans to provide planning and design
guidance; and
Explain how the plan’s priorities are distinctly different from those of
other places, and not just say that the council is committed to good
design, or that development should respect its context.
The plan should set out concisely the local authorities
priorities in relation to design, leaving the detail to be
provided in guidance documents.
18. Scottish Executive (2006)
People and Place: Regeneration
Policy Statement
The purpose of the policy statement is to complement existing strategies
and help ensure that the need to regenerate and renew communities
across the country is tackled proactively in an integrated way.
It sets a forward-looking strategic framework and priorities for
Regeneration in Scotland.
It proposes a series of meetings and events to discuss the Scottish
Executive’s approach to regeneration.
The plan needs to ensure it takes account of
changing regeneration opportunities.
19. Scotland’s Biodiversity: It’s in
Your Hands. A strategy for the
conservation and enhancement
of biodiversity in Scotland
Is a 25 year strategy, which sets out a vision for the future health of
Scotland’s biodiversity to 2030. It highlights the need to:
Look at the bigger picture: reconnecting and extending habitats and
reducing barriers;
Think in terms of landscapes and ecosystems (not just in terms of
species and habitats), which it says can be better delivered through
strategic planning; and
Encourage more engagement with people in biodiversity conservation.
The Plan’s strategy needs to:
Ensure the protection and conservation of
biodiversity;
To assist in reversing the decline of important
species and habitats; and
To maximise habitat linkage in both urban and rural
areas and minimise further fragmentation.
137
20. Scottish Executive Marine &
Coastal Strategy (2005)
To enhance and conserve the overall quality of the coasts and seas,
their natural processes and their biodiversity.
To integrate environment and biodiversity considerations into the
management of marine activities.
To promote wider public awareness, on the value of the marine and
coastal environments and the pressures on them.
To identify means of working with natural processes to protect against
coastal flooding and to maintain inter-tidal and coastal habitats of
importance for biodiversity.
Promote objectives that promote clean, safe, healthy
and productive coastal and water environments.
21. The Planning (Listed
Buildings and Conservation
Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997
Prescribes the approach to be taken in planning for listed buildings,
conservation areas and designed landscapes and gardens.
The Plan should ensure that listed buildings,
conservation areas and designed landscapes and
gardens are not adversely affected by new
development.
22. Ancient Monuments and
Archaeological Areas Act 1979
Prescribes the approach to be taken in planning for scheduled ancient
monuments and archaeological areas.
The Plan should ensure that scheduled ancient
monuments and archaeological areas are not
adversely affected by new development.
23. Land Reform (Scotland) Act
2003
Legislation provides for reasonable rights of access to countryside. The Plan should protect and keep open and free from
obstruction or encroachment any route, waterway or
other means by which access rights may reasonably
be exercised.
24. National Waste Strategy To provide a framework within which Scotland can reduce the amount of
waste, which it produces, and to facilitate a move to sustainable waste
management. The National Waste Plan is the key to implementing the
National Waste Strategy. This plan brings together Area Waste Plans for
the different Waste Strategy Areas across Scotland.
The Plan should contribute to implementing the
strategy, and include policies that promote waste
minimisation and reduce the amount of municipal
waste going to landfill.
25. Scottish Executive (2007)
Reaching Higher – Building on
the Success of Sport 21
Is the national strategy for sport in Scotland and sets out the long-term
aims and objectives for sport until 2020 and plans for its delivery and
evaluation. It has been produced following a scheduled review of Sport 21:
2003-2007. The strategy maintains a vision of Scotland as:
a country achieving and sustaining world class performances in sport;
a country where sport is more widely available to all; and
a country where sporting talent is recognised and nurtured.
The Plan should contribute to implementing the
strategy.
26. Scottish Planning Policy: Promotes sustainable economic Development in planning
Encourages and supports regeneration and social justice through the
planning system
Maintaining and enhancing the quality of natural heritage and built
environment
All Issues
The Local Development Plan should pursue
sustainable economic development, regeneration and
social justice
27. Scottish Landscape Forum’
(2007) Scotland’s living
landscapes
The Scottish Landscape Forum has published a report entitled Scotland’s
Living Landscapes – places for people. It considers how to promote good
management of all landscapes, to secure benefits for all. It provides
seven key recommendations to the Scottish Government and other public
Consider how the Plan can maintain and restore
natural habitats to ensure biodiversity and
landscapes.
138
bodies as first steps to delivering better care for Scottish landscapes. This
includes preparing a European Landscape Convention action plan.
28. Scottish Historic
Environment Policies (SHEP)
The Historic Environment
Is the overarching policy statement for the historic environment.
It provides a framework for more detailed strategic policies and
operational policies that inform the day to day work of a range of
organisations that have a role and interest in managing the historic
environment.
They are intended to sit alongside and complement the Scottish
Planning Policy series and other relevant Ministerial policy documents.
The Plan should take account of the vision
statements in the SHEP by managing the historic
environment in a sustainable way.
29. Passed to the Future
(Historic Scotland Policy)
Sets out for the Scottish Executive’s policy for sustainable management of
Scotland’s historic environment through four broad principles:
Recognising the value of historic features, which can make a positive
contribution to modern society and quality of life.
Good stewardship of the historic environment, having regard to its
capacity for change.
Assessing impact to the historic environment, otherwise follow the
precautionary principle.
Working together to ensure that the management of the historic
environment is considered at the same time as other needs.
Ensure that the management of the historic
environment is considered at the strategic level.
30. Disability Discrimination Acts
1995 & 2005
Ensures that discrimination law covers all the activities of the public sector;
and requires public bodies to promote equality of opportunity for disabled
people.
Aims to end the discrimination that many disabled people face and gives
disabled people rights in the areas of employment, education, access to
goods, facilities and services and buying or renting land or property.
Population and Human health
The Local Development Plan should build the needs
of disabled persons into its strategic actions
31. Physical Activity Strategy Aims to increase and maintain the proportion of physically active people in
Scotland.
Sets targets to achieve 50 percent of adults aged over 16 and 80 percent
of all children aged 16 and under who meet the minimum recommended
levels of physical activity by 2022 through building healthy public policy,
creating supportive environments, strengthening community action,
developing personal skills and directing health services at the people who
need them most.
Population and Human health
The Local Development Plan should promote
physical activities
32. PAN 60: Planning for Natural
Heritage
Provides advice on how development and the planning system can
contribute to the conservation, enhancement, enjoyment and
understanding of Scotland’s natural environment.
Encourages developers and planning authorities to be positive and
creative in addressing natural heritage issues
Cultural heritage, Landscape
The Local Development Plan should contribute to the
conservation, enhancement, enjoyment and
understanding of the natural environment.
33. PAN 61 Planning &
sustainable urban drainage
Describes how the planning system has a central co-ordinating role in
getting SUDS accepted as a normal part of the development process. In
implementing SUDS on the ground, planners are central in the
Water & Soil
The Local Development Plan should consider the role
of sustainable urban drainage
139
development control process, from pre-application discussions through to
decisions, in bringing together the parties and guiding them to solutions
which can make a significant contribution to sustainable development
34. PAN 63 Waste Management
Planning
Ensures that development plans reflect the land use requirements for the
delivery of an integrated network of waste management facilities
Enables planning authorities to implement the emerging and future Area
Waste Plans Provides a basis for more informed consideration of
development proposals for waste management facilities.
Provides developers seeking planning permission for waste management
facilities with advice on the issues taken into consideration when
determining applications.
Soil, water, air
The Local Development Plan should promote
integrated waste management
35. PAN 65: Planning and Open
Space
Raise the profile of open space as a planning issue
Provides advice on the role of the planning system in protecting and
enhancing existing open spaces and providing high quality new spaces
Sets out how local authorities can prepare open space strategies and
gives examples of good practice in providing, managing and maintaining
open spaces
Landscape, human health
The Local Development Plan should promote
conservation and environment protection
36. PAN 75 Transport and
Planning
Provides good practice guidance which planning authorities, developers
and others should carry out in their policy development, proposal
assessment and project delivery.
Creates greater awareness of how linkages between planning and
transport can be managed.
Highlights the roles of different bodies and professions in the process and
points to other sources of information.
Air, Climatic factors, material asset, biodiversity
The Local Development Plan should promote the use
of existing transportation networks and develop new
cycling and walking alternatives.
37. PAN 76 New Residential
Streets.
Aims at creating attractive, safe residential environments, which reflect the
needs of people, rather than cars.
Requires that street design should reflect local character, be appropriate to
the built form and linked to surrounding areas by direct pedestrian, cycle
and car routes; that the character of the street should be determined by
space requirements of people and vehicles, street furniture should fit with
its surroundings and streets should use high quality materials, be well
maintained and may employ signage to reinforce its sense of place; and
that streets should provide easy movement within and beyond the site,
street design itself should be used to limit traffic speed and home zones,
prioritising pedestrian and cycle needs over car users, should be
considered for residential streets.
Cultural heritage, Population & human health
The Local Development Plan should safeguard safe
and high standard design of streets
38. PAN 77 Designing safer
places
Highlights the positive role that planning can play in helping to create
attractive, well-managed environments which help to discourage antisocial
and criminal behaviour.
Aims to ensure that new development can be located and designed in a
way that deters such behaviour as poorly designed surroundings can
Cultural heritage, Population & human health
The Local Development Plan should safeguard safety
140
create feelings of hostility, anonymity and alienation and can have
significant social, economic and environmental costs.
39. PAN 78 Inclusive Design Seeks to deliver high standards of design in development and
redevelopment projects; and widens the user group that an environment is
designed for. Makes is a legal requirement to consider the needs of
disabled people under the terms of Disability Discrimination legislation.
Cultural heritage
The Local Development Plan should promote high
standard of design
40. River Basin Management
Plans
Sets out the proposed arrangements for River Basin Management
Planning in the each of Scotland’s two River Basin Districts
(www.sepa.org.uk/about_us/consultations.aspx);
The Local Development Plan should look to protect
the river catchments
41. Scotland’s Bathing Waters:
A Strategy for Improvement –
Scottish Executive Environment
Group (2002)
(www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/46905/0031395.pdf Plans should ensure that the quality of bathing waters
should be maintained
42. Scottish Waters Strategic
Asset Capacity and
Development Plan
Sets out the services and investment that it intends to undertake in order
to meet its environmental obligations (www.scottishwater.co.uk). Note that
this may also be relevant to the material asset receptor
The Local Development Plan should take into
account existing infrastructure and provide for new
infrastructure if required.
43. SEPA’s Policy 55 on
“Provision of Waste Water
Drainage in Settlements”
Outlines SEPA’s policy in relation to the provision of strategic foul drainage
infrastructure
Water
44. Thematic Strategy on the
Protection and Conservation of
the Marine Environment (2002)
Its purpose being to protect and conserve the marine environment
(www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/Water/16440/7090
Water
45. The Pollution Prevention and
Control (Scotland) Regulations
2000
Sets out a pollution control regime for the purpose of implementing the
Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Directive (Council Directive
96/61/EC) and for regulating other environmentally polluting activities not
covered by the Directive
(www.legislation.gov.uk/legislation/scotland/ssi2000/20000323.htm).
Water, Soil, Air
46. Building a Better Scotland
Infrastructure Investment Plan:
Investing in the Future of
Scotland, (2005)
Sets out the delivery plan for achieving significant investment in transport,
education, health, water, waste management, sports, business, flood
prevention and regeneration programmes in Scotland
(www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2005/02/20756/53560)
Material Assets
4. Zero Waste Scotland, new
policy and targets on waste
management
(www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/waste-and-pollution/Waste-1 The Local Development Plan should encourage
reduction, re-use and recycling over disposal.
48. SEPA Guidelines for
Thermal Treatment of Municipal
Waste
www.sepa.org.uk/waste/waste_regulation/energy_from_waste.aspx Air
Regional
1. North East of Scotland Local Ensures the protection and enhancement of the biodiversity in the north Biodiversity, fauna & flora
141
Biodiversity Action Plan east through the development of effective, local, working partnerships;
Ensure that national targets for species and habitats, as specified in the
UK Action Plan, are translated into effective local action.
The Local Development Plan should promote and
protect biodiversity.
2020 Forest and
Woodland Strategy for
Aberdeenshire and
Aberdeen
Implements the Forests for
Scotland – The Scottish Forestry
Strategy, (Scottish Executive,
2000)
The Strategy provides a framework for woodland development and
management, and aims to:
Ensure the sustainable management of the woodlands and forests;
Contribute to the local economy;
Provide opportunities for recreation and tourism; and
Protect and enhance biodiversity and the environment.
This means encouraging multi-benefit forestry in new planting and through
re-structuring, balancing forestry against other land uses, protecting
sensitive areas and identifying priority areas for expansion of a variety of
forest and woodland types.
Although the Plan does not need to conform to the
Strategy, as it is a management tool, the Plan can
ensure that new development does not conflict with
forest and woodland priorities (e.g. sustaining ancient
woodlands, enhancing popular recreation areas, and
linking wildlife corridors).
3. River Dee Catchment
Management Plan
Records the current state of the Dee catchment, including water quality,
the type and extent of habitats and species in the catchment, and
important land management activities.
Identifies key issues and puts forward potential solutions through a
series of actions.
The Plan should contribute to delivering the actions
proposed in the Catchment Management Plan
2020 Regional
Transport Strategy
(RTS),
Sets the long-term framework to improve the transport network in the
North East, including:
Integrating land use and transportation;
Creating a long-term sustainable framework;
Providing communities with a choice of means of travel and improving
people’s access to jobs;
Improving air quality both locally and globally;
Improving external links to the area by rail, road, sea and air; and
Integrating different modes of transport to provide seamless
interchange.
The Plan should contribute to meeting the MTS,
which ends in 2011 and the future Regional Transport
Strategy, which will extend to 2021.
5. North East Area Waste Plan Sets out the existing waste-management infrastructure, develop the
principles and plan for progress in waste-management in the medium and
long term to meet current and future legislative requirements and
objectives of the National Waste Plan.
Seeks to make the maximum possible contribution to reduce
environmental impact at an acceptable cost and the maximisation of
opportunities for businesses arising from sustainable waste-management
Soil, air, water
The Local Development Plan should promote waste
minimisation and environmental protection
6. Economic Growth Framework
for North East Scotland
Sets the context for economic prosperity which will in turn drive sports
development
Promote sustainable economic growth; sustainable competitiveness and
inclusive communities
Material asset
The Local Development Plan should support
sustainable economic growth
7. North East Scotland Together
Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire
Creates a long-term sustainable framework of settlements in a hierarchy,
which focuses major development on the main settlements in the North
All Issues
The Local Development Plan should promote
142
Structure Plan 2001-2016 East.
Sets the strategic context for Aberdeen City Local Plan which in turn set
the framework for land use development
sustainable development
8. North east Global Footprint
Reduction Report
9. Aberdeen City and Shire
Structure Plan 2009
Guides the development of the Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire region
for the next 25 years. Sets the strategic context for Aberdeen Local
development Plan which in turn set the framework for land use
development
All Issues
10. Aberdeenshire Proposed
Local Development Plan 2010
Aberdeenshire’s Proposed Local Development Plan Cross boundary impacts in terms of impacts on Air
Quality, Climate, Water, and Landscape.
Local Level
1. Aberdeen Futures – Aberdeen
Community Plan
Stresses access to services of a high quality that meet their needs; seeks
to make Aberdeen an attractive, clean, healthy and safe place to live;
Promotes Aberdeen as a forward looking city that recognises its heritage
and its internationally recognised institutions and services; and seeks to
give Aberdeen a strong, positive image of itself both nationally and
internationally.
All Issues
The Local Development Plan should support
accessibility, health, safety, and the environment
2. Aberdeen Local Plan 2008 Sets the context, direction and targets for land use in the City
Seeks to set the context within which green spaces will be optimised in the
City
All Issues
The Local Development Plan should support the
conservation of green spaces
3. Joint Health Improvement
Plan
Seeks to encourage, support and enable individuals and communities to
take shared responsibility for their own health and to work together to bring
about improvements by enabling people to become involved in community
issues;
Supports action to suppress poverty, lack of physical activity and leisure
facilities, poor sports and other factors that contribute to physical
inequality;
Population & human health
Develop sports strategies that support health and
well-being
4. Aberdeen Local Housing
Strategy
The LHSs have been produced to tackle the problems across Aberdeen
and Aberdeenshire for the period 2004-2009. Both documents seek to
work in partnership to ensure every household in the North East:
Has access to housing (e.g. affordability)
Of good quality and design (e.g. housing condition and energy efficiency
(to reduce fuel poverty))
Which meets a required particular need (e.g. special need/elderly)
In a sustainable and inclusive community (e.g. reducing deprivation).
The Plan should contribute to delivering both
Aberdeen’s and Aberdeenshire’s LHS in terms of
provision of land, need, tenure, affordability, location,
and reducing deprivation.
5. Aberdeen Contaminated Land
Strategy
The Contaminated Land Strategy sets out how local authorities deal with
potentially contaminated land.
Unknown at present.
6. Aberdeen City Local
Transport Strategy
Makes the Local Development Plan to take full account of the
environment, social and economic implications of transport;
Promotes the maximisation of accessibility for all to services and jobs;
Material Asset, Air, Climatic factors
The Local Development Plan should support
sustainability, environment protection, accessibility
143
efficient resource use, as well as safety in delivering transportation and safety and reduce social exclusion.
7. Aberdeen City Air Quality
Action Plan
To reduce nitrogen dioxide within the Air Quality Management Area
(AQMA) in Aberdeen City Centre, and to a lesser extent reduce
particulates (PM10) through short, medium and long term infrastructure and
other projects.
The Plan should contribute to delivering the actions
proposed in the Action Plan in order to improve air
quality with the AQMA and ensure land required to
implement the Action Plan is provided timeously.
8. Aberdeen City Nature
Conservation Strategy.
Aims to control and maintain remaining natural habitats and associated
wildlife through the identification of designated sites and additional nonstatutory
sites. This will benefit both biodiversity and the citizens that live,
work and visit the City of Aberdeen.
Biodiversity, flora and fauna
The Local Development Plan should promote
biodiversity
9. Aberdeen City Core Paths
Plan
Core Paths Plans are required under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
for each council area sufficient for the purpose of giving the public
reasonable access throughout their area. They set out the core paths
network. The Plans are developed in consultation with local communities,
user groups, land managers and other stakeholders. Drafts are expected
in 2008. Their aims include:
Connecting residential areas, green-spaces, amenities, other attractions
and the wider countryside;
Forming a basic, safe framework for outdoor recreation and sustainable
and active travel;
Assisting people to lead healthier lifestyles;
Promoting environmental protection and foster the development of a
more sustainable city; and
Being well integrated in policy and usage terms, encouraging access
opportunities for all.
The plan should support the aims of the Core Paths
Plans.
10. Aberdeen City Parks and
Greenspace Strategy (draft).
Seeks to promote efficient use, development and maintenance of parks
and green spaces within the context of community, environment and
economy.
Biodiversity
The Local Development Plan should be consistent
with Greenspace provisions
11. Aberdeen City Outdoor
Access Strategy
Promotes a well-used network of safe, clear and enjoyable routes linking
people and places. It recognises that there are many potential benefits for
promoting and encouraging access to the outdoors including health;
transport; tourism; environment and community; and recreation.
Population & human health
The Local Development Plan should promote outdoor
access, recreation and physical activity
12. Aberdeen City State of the
Environment Reports.
Sets the baseline against which the evolution of the City’s environment can
be gauged.
All Issues
13. Landscape Character
Assessment of Aberdeen.
Seeks to maintain a balance between landform, geology, ecology, and
vegetation despite human influences.
Encourages development in existing settlements; avoiding coalescence
between settlements and discouraging isolated development in the open
countryside unless it is clearly identified in development plan
Landscape
The Local Development Plan should take account of
landscape character and promote good landscape
designs
144
Appendix 7.n: Baseline data, targets and trends
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
SEA Topic: Air & Climatic Factors
Air quality
(N02)
Market Street
1
(2006-2009):
55 – 73 [g/m3
Union Street (2006-2009):
48 – 64 [g/m3
Anderson Drive (2006-2009):
23 – 28 [g/m3
Wellington Road (2008-
2009):
40-43 [g/m3
Errol Place(2006-2009):
23 – 30 [g/m3
king’s Street (2009)
32 [g/m3
Inverurie 1-4(2006-2008)
10.6-37.4 [g/m3
Mintlaw (2006-2008)
18.2-18.3 [g/m3
Peterhead 1-4
24.1-28.9 [g/m3
Stonehaven1-3(2006-2008)
9.8-28.3 [g/m3
Westhill 1-2(2006-2008)
12.2-18.9 [g/m3
EU annual mean limit value
(40 [g/m
3
)
Little change in
Aberdeen City between
2006 and 2009.
However, the NO2
concentrations
measured by
Aberdeenshire Council
during the period are
below the NAQS annual
mean objective for NO2
at all monitoring
locations.
NO2 concentrations
monitored by Aberdeen
City Council at Union
Street and Market Street
continuous monitoring
sites exceed national
objectives.
Aberdeen City Council Air
Quality Progress Report 2010
Aberdeenshire Council
Air Quality Updating and
Screening Assessment (2009)
Air quality
(Properties
exposed to
NO2
concentrations
above
EU/Scottish
limit value)
Wellington Road AQMA
< 10 (2010)
0 (2012)
Anderson Drive AQMA
10-100 (2010)
<10 (2012-1016)
City Centre AQMA
100-1000 (2010)
100-1000 (2012)
10-100 (2016)
EU annual mean limit value
(40 [g/m
3
)
Little change in
Aberdeen City between
2006 and 2009.
However, the NO2
concentrations
measured by
Aberdeenshire Council
during the period are
below the NAQS annual
mean objective for NO2
at all monitoring
locations.
NO2 concentrations
monitored by Aberdeen
City Council at Union
Street and Market Street
continuous monitoring
sites exceed national
objectives.
Aberdeen City Council Air
Quality Progress Report 2010
Aberdeenshire Council
Air Quality Updating and
Screening Assessment (2009)
Council
Air quality
(PM10)
Market Street (2006-2009):
50 – 85 [g/m3
Union Street (2006-2009):
18 – 25 [g/m3
Anderson Drive(2006-2009):
15 – 18 [g/m3
Wellington Road: (2008-
2009):
23- 25 [g/m3
Errol Place(2006-2009):
15 – 22 [g/m3
King Street (2009):
2004 annual mean
objective for EU
40 [g/m3
2010 annual mean Scottish
Objective
18 [g/m3
Little change in
Aberdeen City between
2006 and 2009.
PM10 concentration
measured by Aberdeen
City Council at Market
Street, Union Street and
Wellington Road Exceed
2010 Scottish annual
mean objective.
Aberdeen City Council Air
Quality Progress Report 2010
Aberdeenshire Council
Air Quality Updating and
Screening Assessment (2009)
1
The monitoring station at Market Street was relocated in 2009
145
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
17 [g/m3
Air quality
(Properties
exposed to
PM10
concentrations
above the
2010 Scottish
objective)
Wellington Road AQMA
100-1000 (2010)
10 -100 (2012)
Anderson Drive AQMA
100-1000 (2010)
10-100 (2012-1016)
City Centre AQMA
>1000 (2010)
>1000 (2012)
100-1000 (2016)
2004 annual mean
objective for EU
40 [g/m3
2010 annual mean Scottish
Objective
18 [g/m3
Little change in
Aberdeen City between
2006 and 2009.
PM10 concentration
measured by Aberdeen
City Council at Market
Street, Union Street and
Wellington Road Exceed
2010 Scottish annual
mean objective.
Aberdeen City Council Air
Quality Progress Report 2010
Aberdeenshire Council
Air Quality Updating and
Screening Assessment (2009)
Carbon dioxide
(CO2)
emissions
In Aberdeen an average
dwelling house produces
5,175 kg CO2.
Total road traffic is forecast
to grow by between 22%-
34% for the period 2002-
2011.
Scotland contributed 10%
to the total UK CO2
emissions.
In 2003, Scotland’s main
contributors to CO2
emissions were:
33.2% from power
generation (30.5% is the
UK average), an increase
of 23.6%;
18% from road transport;
and
13% from domestic
households.
Kyoto Protocol (1997) CO2
targets are 12.5% below
1990 baseline – Scottish
emissions in 2002 were 6%
lower.
Overall greenhouse
gases are decreasing,
but Aberdeen is
producing high amount
of carbon dioxide in
Scotland. This is most
likely due to the areas
high dependence on oil.
New development
should consider energy
efficiency and
conservation as an
issue.
Materials with high CO2
levels are still
increasingly popular
(e.g. concrete and
tarmac).
Energy dependence on
fossil fuels for: heat and
electricity; and
transportation.
Best Foot Forward (2006)
Domestic Carbon Dioxide
Emissions for Selected Cities,
British Gas
http://www.britishgasnews.co.u
k/managed_content/files/pdf/gr
eenCity.pdf
*DEFRA (2005) Greenhouse
Gas Inventories for England,
Scotland, Wales and Northern
Ireland: 1990 – 2003
http://www.airquality.co.uk/arch
ive/reports/cat07/0509211321_
Reghg_report_2003_Main_Tex
t_Issue_1.doc, National
Environmental Technology
Centre
UK Greenhouse gas inventory,
1990-2004
http://www.airquality.co.uk/arch
ive/reports/cat07/0605231047_
ukghgi_90-04_v1.1.pdf
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Councils (2006) Topic Paper:
Energy, Aberdeenshire Council
Natural
resources
consumption
(footprint)
Aberdeen’s annual global
footprint (in global hectares
per person (gha/p): Total:
5.73gha/p
Aberdeenshire’s annual
global footprint:
Total: 5.60gha/p
Energy consumption:
The main contributors to
the NE’s global footprint
are energy consumption,
food and drink and land
Aberdeen consumes
more resources per
person than any other
Scottish city and it has
North East Global Footprint
Project
http://www.scotlandsfootprint.o
rg/the_project/north_east.php
146
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
Energy consumption:
1.14gha/p (20%)Food and
drink: 1.07gha/p (19%)Land
travel: 0.81ha/p (14%)Other
(Government, capital
investment, holiday activities,
consumables services, and
sports): 2.35gha/p (47%)
1.09ha/person (19%)
Food and drink:
1.11ha/person (20%)
Land travel: 0.74ha/p (13%)
Other: 2.7gha/p (48%)
travel. the largest footprint in
Scotland, which cannot
be sustained in the long-
term.
Aberdeen City Council and
Aberdeenshire Council (2006)
Scotland’s Global Footprint
Project – Reduction Report for
North East Scotland Global
Footprint Project, Joint Global
Footprint Co-ordinator, ACC
SEA Topic: Water
Ground water
and river levels
Water runoff is reduced by
public water supply
abstraction for river Dee.
Runoff is natural to within
10% at the 95 percentile flow
for all rivers in the North
East.
In 2002, Scottish Water
utilised 62% of its permitted
water abstraction licence
from the River Dee of 145
mega litres per day. The
average water abstraction
from the River Dee is 89.9
mega litres per day.
Data on ground water in
Scotland was not available.
By the 2080s, summer
precipitation in the south of
Scotland is predicted to
decrease by 20-40% under
the low emissions (Global
Sustainability), and to
decrease by more than
40% under the highemissions
World Markets
scenario.
By the 2080s, summer
precipitation in the north of
Scotland is predicted to
decrease by 10-20% under
the low emissions (Global
Sustainability), and to
decrease by 20-30% under
the high-emissions World
Markets.
Rainfall levels are
predicted to decline
during the summer
months, which may
affect a rivers yield rate,
but this will be less
severe further north.
Rainfall in winter months
is predicted to increase.
Increase in water
consumption from
industrial consumers
and from increased
residential development.
Increase in leakages
from pipe infrastructure
as it ‘ages’.
Need to start reducing
water abstraction by
incorporating water
efficient technologies
into new development
(industrial and domestic)
in light of the predicted
decrease in summer
rainfall.
Centre for Hydrology and
Ecology (River Flow – gauging
stations) (2004):
http://www.nwl.ac.uk/ih/nrfa/sta
tion_summaries/op/SEPA-
north_map.html
SEPA:
http://www.sepa.org.uk/data/riv
er_levels/data.htm
Aberdeen City (2002) State of
the Environment Report,
aberdeenfutures
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/ACCI/nmsruntime/saveasdialo
g.asp?lID=2424&sID=883
Water Quality Water quality can be affected
by run-off and the release of
pollutants (either permitted or
accidentally) into the water
environment.
Generally, water quality
is improving but climate
change issues
(increased flooding or
droughts) and increased
water abstraction can
exacerbate existing
problems.
Need to start reducing
water abstraction by
incorporating water
efficient technologies
into new development
(industrial and domestic)
in light of the predicted
decrease in summer
rainfall.
Details of Scotland’s Water
Framework Directive
monitoring strategy are
available from
www.sepa.org.uk/water/monito
ring_and_classification/scottish
_monitoring_strategy.aspx.
The most up to date
information for Aberdeen is
current available in the
document “Have your say on
improving the quality of our
147
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
water environment: North East
Scotland Draft Area
Management Plan” 2009-2015
which is available from
www.sepa.org.uk/water/river_b
asin_planning.aspx.
Coastal
impacts
In the North East, sea borne
waste pollution is principally
from urban sewage (although
this is declining), chemical
waste, and agricultural
fertilisers.
The North Sea was once
considered to be the most
contaminated sea in
Europe.
Sea-borne waste is a
common problem
throughout Scotland.
Major impact both on
wildlife and the
enjoyment of other
beach users.
Bathing water quality
along the North East
coast is improving.
East Grampian Coastal
Partnership (Annual Report
2005-06):
http://www.egcp.org.uk/docum
ents/_Toc138674449
Forth Estuary Forum:
http://www.forthestuaryforum.c
o.uk/downloads/strategy.pdf
Marine Conservation Society
http://www.mcsuk.org/mcsactio
n/pollution/introduction
Flooding Flooding is an ongoing issue
in a coastal city bisected by
two major rivers. Areas at
risk from coastal and river
flooding are highlighted on
SEPA’s Flood Maps and the
City Council carries out
monitoring of flood incidents
in its biennial flood reports
(see Strategic Flood Risk
Assessment.
Rainfall levels are
predicted to decline
during the summer
months whereas rainfall
in winter months is
predicted to increase.
Biennial Flood Reports
specify the measures
that Aberdeen City
Council has undertaken
to meet its duties under
the Flood Prevention
(Scotland) Act 1961 as
amended by the Flood
Prevention and Land
Drainage (Scotland) Act
1997. It details flood
prevention measures
and strategies for
preventing and
mitigating flooding,
including proposals and
expenditure for the
future. Flood and road
drainage incidents are
reported and measures
which dealt with them
are outlined.
Biennial Flood Reports are
published by the City Council.
SEPA’s Flood Maps can be
viewed at www.sepa.org.uk
SEA Topic: Soil
148
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
Land
contamination
There are no statutorily
identified contaminated sites
in Aberdeen, although there
are 900 potentially
contaminated sites, which
are being considered for
investigation. 7 are currently
being studied (averaging 3
sites pa).
There are 4 statutorily
identified contaminated
sites in Aberdeenshire.
In the Shire, there are 5000
other potentially
contaminated sites,
including landfill sites,
former gasworks, stations
and goods yards, petrol
stations and garages,
distilleries, smithy’s and
infilled ground.
Although only 2
contaminated sites are
on the public register in
the North East, this may
increase as many sites
are still to be
investigated.
In Aberdeen, out of the 7
sites under investigation,
include 5 closed landfill
sites. Two gas works
sites are under further
investigation.
There are 5,900
potentially contaminated
sites recorded in the
North East. These
include several hundred
high-risk sites such as
landfill and gasworks.
Contaminated land
places financial and
technological constraints
on development. These
constraints may dictate
the type of development:
the feasibility of remedial
works may determine
that a site is only
suitable for industrial
use; the cost of remedial
works may determine
that high density
development is the only
viable economic option.
Contaminated land
impacts on the water
environment, i.e. ground
surface and coastal
waters, and the wider
environment including
for instance local
ecology.
Aberdeen City Council (2001)
Contaminated Land Inspection
Strategy
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/acci/web/files/Pollution/Conta
minatedLandInspectionStrateg
y.pdf
Aberdeenshire Council
Contaminated Land Strategy
(under review December 2006)
Aberdeenshire Council Public
Register of Contaminated Land
Aberdeenshire Council GGP
overlay: Potentially
contaminated sites
149
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
Waste
disposal in
landfill
2005 figures for landfill and
recycling in Aberdeen stands
at:
landfilled biodegradable
municipal waste (BMW):
70,773; and
recycled/ composted
municipal solid waste
(MSW): 16.5% (22,500
tonnes) (this has increased to
22% in 2005/06).
BMW landfill allowances for
Aberdeen are:
53,004 tonnes in 2009/10;
35,336 tonnes in 2012/13;
and 26,387 tonnes in
2019/20.
2004/2005 –13%
2005/2006 –19%
2006/2007 –21%
2005 figures for landfill and
recycling in Aberdeenshire
stands at:
landfilled BMW: 83,222
tonnes; and recycled/
composted MSW: 15.1%
(23,366).
National recycling targets
are:
2006 – 25%
2008 – 30%
2020 – 55%
Aberdeenshire’s recycling
targets:
2005/06 – 17%
2006/07 – 22%
BMW landfill allowances for
Aberdeenshire are:
54,917 tonnes in 2009/10;
36,611 tonnes in 2012/13;
and
27,340 tonnes in 2019/20.
To meet the Waste
Landfill Direct, the North
of Scotland Strategic
Options Review
(includes Highland,
Moray, Angus and City
and Shire councils) is
looking at several
different methods to
dispose of municipal
waste, including
incineration (energy
from waste plant).
The trend shows a slight
improvement but against
the Council’s target of
40% by 2011, more
work needs to be done.
Not enough sites for
recycling or composting
biodegradable municipal
waste (large, medium or
small scale) to help the
local authorities achieve
their recycling and
landfill targets, although
funding is being sought
from the Scottish
Executive’s Strategic
Waste Fund to build the
necessary infrastructure.
Housing, schools, and
employment uses (e.g.
retail and offices) are of
inadequate design to
maximise the storing
and collection of waste
to be recycled.
North East Scotland Area
Waste Plan (2003)
http://www.sepa.org.uk/nws/ar
eas/north_east/awp/2.4.html
Aberdeen City Council
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/acci/web/site/Rubbish/rub_Wa
steStrategy.asp
Aberdeenshire Council Waste
Team
RPS (2006) North of Scotland
Strategic Option Review
Group: Strategic Outline Case
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Re
source/Doc/113890/0027685.p
df
Landfill Allowance Scheme
(Scotland) Regulations 2005 –
Interim Guidance, Scottish
Executive
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Re
source/Doc/54357/0012514.pd
f
150
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
Soil Erosion From Berwick to Aberdeen,
the coastline is eroding, but is
stable where there are rocky
coasts or coastal defences.
From Aberdeen to Inverness
the coastline is largely
eroding, but parts are being
replenished with sand and
gravel from larger rivers.
The north of Scotland is
mostly stable with little
erosion, but south of
Mallaig, towards Carlisle,
the coastline is
predominantly eroding but
stable where there are
rocky coasts or coastal
defences.
Precipitation will be greater
in the west due to the westeast
precipitation gradient.
The coastline is
predominantly eroding
along the east.
Autumn/Winter rainfall is
predicted to increase,
giving rise to winter
storms and affecting
runoff and (wind and
water) erosion.
Upland schemes such
as wind farm access
roads and recreation
tracks (e.g. mountain
biking) on steep ground
can increase surface
water runoff and lead to
significant soil loss (e.g.
gullies).
Coastal erosion mostly
where there are no
rocks or coastal
defences. It can also be
exacerbated by the
construction of illconsidered
coastal
defences at another
location within the same
coastal cell.
Increase silting of rivers
from fluvial flooding.
Increase in soil erosion
from wind and water,
which may also be
exacerbated by bad land
use practices, such as
locating tracks/access
roads on steep/ upland
ground.
Increasing use of
motorised vehicles on
sand dunes is
contributing to coastal
erosion.
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Councils (2006) Strategic
Flooding Issues Topic Paper
Office of Science and
Technology (2005) Foresight
report: Future Flooding
Scotland
Aberdeen Council Natural
Heritage Team
Davidson, D.A. and Grieve,
I.C. (2004) Trends in soil
erosion, Scottish Natural
Heritage Commissioned
Report No. 054 (ROAME No.
F00AC106)
http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/pub
lications/commissioned_report
s/F00AC106.pdf
151
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
SEA Topic: Biodiversity
Condition of
designated
areas
Scotstown Moor SSSI in
Aberdeen is subject to
indirect development
pressure due to changes in
the water table adjacent
development, which is
affecting flush and bog
habitats.
The River Dee’s designation
as a Special Area of
Conservation will have a
knock-on effect on future
development within the river’s
catchment.
The lack of appropriate
management of some
designated natural heritage
sites is affecting their
underlying objective (of that
designation) and overall
integrity.
No monitoring of SINS has
been undertaken, but they
are under review.
To maintain or improve the
condition of qualifying
features of the designated
sites
The main targets to be
achieved are the
conservation and
enhancement of designated
sites, and permitting only
those developments that
will not adversely affect
these designations directly
and indirectly, unless the
proposal will be of national
benefit to the population.
Planning policies have
generally prohibited
developments within
International and
national designations
that may harm these
sites, and indirect
impacts are affecting
some important wetland
sites.
The River Dee’s
designation as a Special
Area of Conservation
will affect future
development within the
river’s catchment.
International
designations: the
significance and
purpose of SACs is that
development in or
adjacent to them, such
as the River Dee
catchment may
cumulatively prevent the
objectives of these
designations being met,
and prevent new
development being
developed.
Indirect impact of
development on
designated sites that are
affecting their water
table, and therefore the
quality of wetland
habitats.
Impact from large-scale
leisure and recreation
uses.
Increase of access to
designated sites could
be damaging to some
sites.
Structure Plan (NEST) (2006)
Monitoring Environment
Monitoring Paper,
Aberdeenshire Council
Aberdeenshire Council,
Natural Heritage team
Moray Council (2003)
Development Plan Monitoring
Paper
http://www.moray.gov.uk/mora
y_standard/page_42476.html
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Council (2006) Natural
Heritage Topic Paper
Aberdeen City (2002) State of
the Environment Report,
aberdeenfutures
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/ACCI/nmsruntime/saveasdialo
g.asp?lID=2424&sID=883
Sites of
Special
Scientific
Interest
(SSSIs)
Aberdeen City has 4 SSSIs
covering 47 hectare which
covers 0.2% of Aberdeen.
These include Nigg Bay,
Corby, Lily and Bishop’s
Loch, Scotstown Moor
(Perwinnes Moss) and Cove.
Compared with Aberdeen
City, Aberdeenshire has
about 82 SSSIs covering
39805 hectares taking
about 6.3% of
Aberdeenshire. Compared
with Scotland, which has
1,451 SSSIs on 1,007,464
hectares of land covering
about 16.3% of the entire
land area of Scotland
No trend Development in the
catchment will put
pressure on the
resource.
SNH (2004) SNH Facts &
Figures 2003/2004. Battleby:
SNH
152
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
Special Areas
of
Conservation
(SAC)
There is 1 SAC (Dee SAC) in
Aberdeen City.
Qualifying feature of River
Dee SAC include the
following: Otter, Atlantic
Salmon and Freshwater
Pearl Mussel
There are about 18 SACs in
Aberdeenshire on 35, 334
hectares of land
representing 5.6% of the
land area of Aberdeenshire.
3.6% of the Scottish total
for SACs and 4.5% for
SPAs.
No trend Development in the
catchment will put
pressure on the
resource.
SNH (2004) SNH Facts &
Figures 2003/2004. Battleby:
SNH
European
Protected
Species (EPS)
EPS in Aberdeen City include
Otters, bats and Bottlenose
Dolphins.
No trend Development will put
pressure on EPS. As
bats frequently roost in
existing buildings, the
impact of brownfield
developments may be
an issue.
Local Nature
Reserves
(LNR)
In Aberdeen City, 0.6% of
land accommodate 4 LNRs
on 126 hectares. These
include Scotstown Moor,
Den of Maidencraig,
Kincorth Hill and Donmouth
In Aberdeenshire, about
0.004% of land
accommodate 2 LNRs on
28 hectares. Compared
with Scotland, there are 36
LNRs covering 9, 410
hectares of land, and this
represents 0.12% of land.
No trend Development will put
pressure on the
resource.
SNH (2004) SNH Facts &
Figures 2003/2004. Battleby:
SNH
Schedule 1 of
the Wildlife
and
Countryside
Act 1981
The peregrine Falcon can be
regularly seen within the city
limits and also breeds in this
area.
No Trend Development in the
catchment will put
pressure on the habitats
and species.
Human Health
Quality and
availability of
public open
space in urban
and rural areas
Significant development
pressure on open spaces
within settlements.
Development on open
spaces limits the council’s
ability to establish networks
of linked open space areas.
There is pressure from
Other urban areas like
Dundee are under
substantial development
pressure.
Councils are required to
take a long term and
spatially strategic
perspective on open space
The pressure from
private developers to
develop on open space
will continue.
The demand for public
open space will continue
to grow, and this must
be reflected, and over
Significant development
pressure for urban open
spaces.
There is pressure to
reduce the size of open
spaces in residential
developments.
Need for larger areas of
Aberdeen City Council (2002)
State of the Environment
Report
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/ACCI/nmsruntime/saveasdialo
g.asp?lID=2424&sID=883
SNH Scottish Natural Heritage
in Dundee
153
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
private sector developers to
limit the extent of open space
for new residential
developments.
There is a lack of
government funding to allow
local authorities to
continuously manage areas
of open space.
provision and under SPP11
undertake an open space
audit and prepare an open
space strategy.
the long term.
There is growing
demand for safer and
more accessible areas
of open space, which
has promoted the
creation of PAN65.
open spaces, including
civic or town parks.
There is a lack of
government funding to
allow local authorities to
continuously manage
areas of open space.
The Finalised Structure
Plan requires a
significant amount of
brownfield housing
development.
http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/sco
ttishparlimentleaflets/dundee.p
df
Scottish Executive (1996)
NPPG 11: Sport, physical
recreation and open space
Scottish Executive (2003)
Planning Advice Note 65:
Planning and Open Space
Aberdeenshire Council’s
Information and Research
team.
Scottish Executive (2006)
Consultative draft Scottish
Planning Policy 11: Physical
Activity and Open Space
Quality of life
in currently
deprived areas
Aberdeen ranked 23
rd
*.
In Aberdeen City, the highest
levels of deprivation are
located in Woodside,
Tillydrone, Middlefield,
Northfield, Cummings Park,
Torry and Seaton
neighbourhoods.
Aberdeenshire is one of the
least deprived areas in
Scotland and is ranked 31
st
out of 32 councils in terms
of multiple deprivation*.
Glasgow City and West
Dumbarton are the most
deprived.
Dundee City is ranked 4
th
.
One of the main
outcomes of Aberdeen’s
Community
Regeneration Strategy is
seven regeneration
masterplans for
Cummings Park,
Middlefield, Tillydrone,
Torry, Woodside,
Seaton and Northfield.
Poor access to services
in rural areas.
Centralisation of service
provision has and will
continue to affect
marginalised areas.
Pockets of deprivation
through low job
opportunities and
income could be
adversely affecting
people’s mental health
in Aberdeen.
* Aberdeenshire Council
(2004) Scottish Index of
Multiple Deprivation (Oxford
Report) – Aberdeenshire: Key
findings
http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.
uk/statistics/economic/SIMD%
20Abshire%20Key%20Finding
s%202004.pdf
Aberdeen City: Community
Planning Regeneration
Masterplans (2006/7)
http://www.communityplanning
aberdeen.org.uk/Web/Site/Inte
rnet/RegenerationMasterplans.
asp
Sport and
recreation
facilities in
areas of
identified need
In Aberdeen, there is still an
outstanding need for:
sports facilities in Cove;
junior golf course;
a new Stadium and football
Academy;
one water based pitches and
2 sand based pitches; and
In Aberdeenshire, there is
still an outstanding need
for:
16.66m x 8.5m pool at
Mintlaw;
6 Badminton Court Hall at
Peterhead and Fraserburgh
56m x 26m ice rink at
Significant work has
been undertaken in
Aberdeen, to implement
proposals outlined in the
Development Plan,
including the upgrading
of facilities at Rubislaw
sports pitches,
Through a new Local
Development Plan these
issues will be
addressed.
Aberdeen City Council (2002)
Active Aberdeen 2002-2007: A
sport, recreation and physical
activity strategy for Aberdeen
City
Aberdeenshire Council (2005)
Sports Facility Study Updated
Report
154
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
50m swimming pool.
(See Appendix 4, Table 4 for
further information on
Aberdeen City Council’s
Local Development Plan)
Peterhead.
Sportscotland strategy sets
out 11 targets to be
achieved by 2007, which
focus on: ensuring that
most of the population is
taking part in sport at least
once a week.
development of an
extreme sports centre;
and improved hockey
pitches.
Aberdeenshire Council (2002)
Sports and Active Lifestyles
Strategy (for the period 2002 to
2005). Sportscotland (2003)
Sport 21: 2003 – 2007: The
National Strategy for Sport –
Shaping Scotland’s Future.
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Councils (2006) Topic Paper:
Sport and recreation Aberdeen
City Open Space Audit
SEA Topic: Population
Years of
healthy life
expectancy
Life expectancy in Aberdeen:
Male 73.6 years Females
78.9 years
Life expectancy in
Aberdeenshire:
Male 75.5 years Females
80.2 years Life expectancy
In Scotland:
Male 73.8 years Females
79.1 years.
Life expectancy at birth
for Scots continues to
improve, and recent
trends show a slight
narrowing of the gap
between males and
females to around 5.3
years in 2002-2004.
Aging population will
create demand for
certain types of facilities
e.g. sheltered housing.
Scottish Executive Statistics
(2006) Life expectancy
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/To
pics/Statistics/Browse/Health/T
rendLifeExpectancy
Size of
population
Aberdeen population figures:
2003 - 206,600
2021 - 202,636
Aberdeenshire population
figures:
2003 - 229,330
2021 - 229,353
North East population
figures aged between 0 –
44 years: 2003 – 257,570
2021 – 216,333
North East population
figures aged 45+ years:
2003 – 178,360
2021 – 215656
Average age in 2005:
Aberdeenshire – 39 (m), 41
(f)
Approximately 2%
decrease within the City,
and 0.01% decrease
within Aberdeenshire.
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Council’s (2004) Strategic
Forecasts 2003-2021:
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/ACCI/nmsruntime/saveasdialo
g.asp?lID=1720&sID=332
155
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
Average age in 2005:
Aberdeen – 38 (m), 41 (f).
In the North East, the
population aged 0 -
44 are predicted to
decline by an average of
14% between 2003 and
2021.
The population aged 45
onwards is predicted to
increase by 31%, with
those aged 75+
increasing the most
(49.7%).
Migration
change
Migration loss 2002-05:
Aberdeen is losing its
population to Aberdeenshire
and outside Scotland.
Migration gain 2002-05:
Aberdeen is gaining its
population from Scotland.
The relative age of those
migrating to Aberdeen is 15-
19 yrs.
Only a slight net migration
gain is predicted to 2016,
with a decline post 2016.
Migration loss 2002-05:
Aberdeenshire is losing it’
population to Scotland.
Migration gain 2002-05:
Aberdeenshire is gaining its
population from Aberdeen
and outside Scotland.
The migration trend in
the North East is slow
growth to 2016 and then
a slow decline
thereafter.
However, migration is a
significant and difficult to
forecast element of
demographic change
which occurs in
response to international
and national as well as
local factors.
Out -migration will
reduce demand for
facilities in the City.
Aberdeen City and
Aberdeenshire Councils (2006)
Topic Paper: Characteristics of
the sports stock
Aberdeen City and
Aberdeenshire Councils (2006)
Topic Paper: Population and
household change
Register for General Scotland
(2006) Mid-2005 Population
Estimates Scotland Population
estimates by sex, age and
administrative area, A National
Statistics publication
http://www.gro-
scotland.gov.uk/files/05mype-
cahb-booklet.pdf
SEA Topic: Cultural Heritage
Conservation
Areas
11 Conservation Areas in
Aberdeen City
36 Conservation areas in
Aberdeenshire.
No trend. The location and design
of new development will
potentially impact on the
conservation areas.
http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.
uk/planning/devservices/index.
asp
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/acci/web/site/Planning/SL/pla_
ConservArea.asp
Scheduled
Ancient
Monuments
(SAM)
44 Scheduled Ancient
Monuments in Aberdeen City
467 Scheduled Ancient
Monuments in
Aberdeenshire.
Development is putting
pressure on this feature.
The location of new
development will
potentially impact on
SAM.
http://www.historic-
scotland.gov.uk/wwd_ancientm
onuments_results.htm?Keywor
ds=Enter+Keywords&Council=
156
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
100&Classification=0&CallBac
k=TRUE&submit.x=29&submit.
y=5
Archaeological
sites
699 Archaeological sites
(from SMR) in the City
699 17935 Archaeological
sites (from SMR) in the
Shire.
Development is putting
pressure on this feature.
The location of new
development will
potentially impact on
archaeological sites.
http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk
/ACCI/web/site/xsm_SMR_App
lication.asp
http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.
uk/archaeology/smr/smr_help.
asp
Archaeological
sites
No schedules ancient
monuments have recently
been lost or significantly
destroyed. However, damage
to remains of local
importance, which are listed
in the Sites & Monuments
Record (SMR), is mostly
caused by vandalism, new
developments, ploughing,
forestry, activities of utility
companies, rabbits, and
coastal erosion.
The strong presumption
in NPPG5 on the
preservation or
recording (if
preservation is not
possible) of
archaeological sites has,
and will continue to
encourage the
safeguarding of sites
throughout Scotland.
Damage to remains of
local importance will
continue unless
solutions are found, e.g.
funding agrienvironment
schemes.
Loss of unknown and
locally known
architectural remains
from new developments,
vandalism and coastal
erosion.
Adverse impacts on the
setting of archaeological
remains from new core
path developments.
Aberdeen City and
Aberdeenshire Councils (2006)
Topic Paper: Built Heritage
Scottish Executive (1998)
NPPG5: Archaeology and
Planning
Listed
Buildings
1212 Listed Buildings in
Aberdeen City
(69) Category A;
(679) Category B;
(464) Category C(S)
3712 Listed Buildings in
Aberdeenshire.
Development is putting
pressure on this feature.
The location and design
of new development will
potentially impact on the
listed buildings.
http://www.historic-
scotland.gov.uk/wwd_listedbuil
dings_results.htm?Keywords=
Enter+Keywords&Council=100
&Parish=0&CallBack=TRUE&s
ubmit.x=40&submit.y=5
Gardens and
Designated
Landscapes
(GDL)
There is 1 GDL in Aberdeen
City (Duthie Park)
There are 27 GDL in
Aberdeenshire covering
5, 745 hectares of land.
This takes 0. 9% of
Aberdeenshire’s land. In
Scotland, there are 328
GDLs on 66, 765 hectares
of land. The land take is
No trend. Development will put
pressure on the
resource.
Historic Scotland
157
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
about 8.3%.
SEA Topic: Landscape
Landscape
character
The Aberdeen Local Plan
2008 includes a new
designation – Green Space
Network, which aims to
improve access to the
countryside, enhance valued
landscapes, and improve
wildlife habitats.
Aberdeenshire Council,
which uses Index 21
methodology to identify
where new development
should be sited (e.g. taking
full account of the
characteristics of the local
landscape and townscape
characteristics.
The four Landscape
Character Assessments
that cover the North East
provides a brief overview of
past land use practices and
discusses potential land
uses for existing
landscapes.
NPPG 14 states that
particular care is needed
when considering
proposals for new
development at the edge
of settlements or in open
countryside.
The inappropriate scale
and insensitive siting of
future new development
may adversely affect
landscape
characteristics (e.g.
changing its landscape
character type, not
respecting local
topography/contours).
New development not
fitting in with the
landscape’s capacity to
absorb new
development (e.g.
design, layout and sense
of place) – need to
promote suitable
development capacity.
Aberdeenshire Council (2006)
NEST Monitoring –
environment Monitoring Paper
Scottish Executive (1999)
NPPG14: Natural Heritage
Scottish Executive (2001)
Designing Places:
A Policy Statement for
Scotland
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/l
ibrary3/planning/dpps-
00.asp
Scottish Executive (1994)
PAN44: Capacity for sports in
the landscape.
Scottish Natural Heritage
(1997) National programme of
landscape character
assessment: Banff and
Buchan, Review No 37.
Scottish Natural Heritage
(1998) South and Central
Aberdeenshire: landscape
character assessment, Review
No 102.
Scottish Natural Heritage
(1996) Cairngorms landscape
assessment, Review No 75.
Scottish Natural Heritage
(1996) Landscape character
assessment of Aberdeen,
Review No 80
Aberdeen City Council (2004)
finalised Local Plan: Green
Spaces, New Places
158
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
SEA Topic Material Assets
Existing flood
defences
To protect properties and
infrastructure in Aberdeen,
works to protect the beach
wall will be required, which
involves the replenishment of
sand along Aberdeen Beach
every 7 years.
In Aberdeenshire, flood
studies have been carried
out in Huntly, Inverurie,
Rosehearty, Auchnagatt,
Fyvie, Maryculter (Mill Inn),
Alford and Aboyne.
Emergency works had to be
carried out on Stonehaven’s
seawall foundations as
coastal erosion caused part
of it to collapse.
Although the impact of
climate change is predicted
to be less significant along
the east coast, the
frequency of storm events
and the level of winter
precipitation are forecast to
increase, which will give
rise to increasing 1 in 200
year flood events and
soil/sand erosion.
As highlighted in the SEA
indicator on climatic factors,
the sea-level along the east
coast is predicted to rise 34
to 55 cm by the 2080s.
Flood studies will
continue to be
commissioned
whenever necessary to
better understand and
resolve flood-affected
areas.
Flood defence schemes
will progressively be
affected by soil/sand
erosion from increasing
rainfall and storm
events, which will affect
their stability and
effectiveness. As a
result, there will be a
need to increase the
maintenance these
defences, and possibly
relocate them.
As part of a 100 year
strategy, which will
protect 259 dwellings
and 174 commercial
properties, road
infrastructure and
Aberdeen beach,
coastal defences and
schemes to reduce tidal
flooding between Nigg
Bay and the Donmouth
(Aberdeen) are currently
underway, which include
the recharging of
Aberdeen beach with
sand and rock t-head
groynes.
Predicted rise in sea
level may result in
existing flood defences
being inadequate.
The predicted rise in
storm events and winter
precipitation is likely to
increase soil/sand
erosion from the wind
and rain/water, which
may prevent flood
defence schemes
functioning properly and
result in their failure (e.g.
collapse).
Aberdeenshire Council (2005)
Flooding in Aberdeenshire:
Fifth Biennial Report
http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.
uk/flooding/report/5biennial.pdf
Halcrow (2006) Aberdeen Bay
Coastal Defence Scheme,
Aberdeen city Council Project
Appraisal Report, Aberdeen
City Council
Office of Science and
Technology (2005) Foresight
report: Future Flooding
Scotland
http://www.foresight.gov.uk/Pre
vious_Projects/Flood_and_Co
astal_Defence/Reports_and_P
ublications/Scotland/final_scotl
and.pdf
159
SEA Indicator Quantified information Comparators and targets Trends Issues/constraints Data source(s)
Drainage,
sewage and
water
treatment
infrastructure
There are relative constraints
on sewage capacity in
Aberdeen – particularly along
the Deeside corridor where
the Leggart pumping station
is near capacity.
In 2003 the cost of
overcoming development
constraints in Scotland was
£435m of which 89% was
for waste water constraints
and 11% for water supply
constraints.
The north east accounts for
5% of the Scottish total,
most of which is required in
Aberdeenshire.
The rise in the number
of households will put
increasing pressure on
these facilities.
Scottish Waters Strategic
Asset Capacity and
Development Plan, which sets
out the services and
investment that it intends to
undertake in order to meet its
environmental obligations
(www.scottishwater.co.uk)
Natural Heritage Designations
District Wildlife Sites in Aberdeen and their other Associated Designations
1 Balnagask to Cove 18 Den of Leggert 31 Den Wood 51 Woodlands Wood, Beidleston
2 Tullos Hill 19 Westburn of Rubislaw 32 North Burn of Rubislaw 52 Moss of Auchlea
3 Don Estuary 20 Rubislaw Den 33 Bucksburn Gorge 53 Rotten of Gairn
4 Balgownie/Blackdog Links 21 Hilton Wood 34 Den of Maidencraig 54 Guttrie Hill
5 Charlestown Wood 22 Clerkhill Wood 35 Cults Den 55 Culter House Woods
6 Loirston Loch 23 Grandholme Moss 36 Cults Quarry 56 Hill of Ardbeck
7 Kincorth Hill 24 Stoneyhill Wood 37 Murtle House & Newton Dee 57 Culter Burn
8 River Dee Valley 25 Monument Wood 38 Hillhead Road 58 Woodend Woods, Peterculter
8.1 Kincorth 26 Persley Quarries 39 Burnbrae Moss 59 Little Hill, Caskieben
8.2 Bridge of Dee 27 Walker Dam & Rubislaw Link 40 Farburn Wood 60 Kinaldie Den
8.3 Pitfodels Castle 28 Allan Park Pond 41 Gough Burn 61 Culter Compensation Dam
8.4 Garthdee 29 Deeside Old Railway 42 Den of Moss-side 62 Old Manse Wood
8.5 Morison Island/Shakkin Briggie 30 Hazlehead Park 43 Foggieton 63 Baads Moss
8.6 Lover’s Walk to St Maiks Well 11 Lochside/Denmore 44 Murtle Den 64 Mid Anguston Quarry
9 River Don Valley 12 Scotstown Moor (Perwinnes
Moss)
45 Blacktop 65 Leuchar Moss
9.1 Braes of Don 13 Newton of Shielhill 46 Binghill Wood 66 Southlasts Mire
9.2 Crook of Don 14 Corby Loch 47 West Hatton 67 Aberdeen-Inverness & Kittybrewster Railway Line
9.3 Woodside 15 Glashie How 48 Brimmond Hill 68 Woodland Walks, Foggieton
9.4 Lower & Upper Persley Woodland 16 Danestone House 49 Elrick Hill 69 Cairdhillock, Kingswells
10 Kinta Valley 17 Cornhill Hospital 50 Tyrebagger Hill 70 Rubislaw Quarry
Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
160
1 Cove 2 Scotstown Moor (Perwinnes
Moss)
3 Nigg Bay 4 Corby, Lily and Bishop’s Loch
District Wildlife Site (DWS)
1 Balnagask to Cove 5 Loirston Loch 9Elrick Hill 13 Grandholme Moss
2 Don Estuary 6 River Dee Valley 10 Kinaldie Den 14 Deeside Old Railway
3 Balgownie/Blackdog Links 7 Blacktop 11 Rubislaw Den 15 Murtle House & Newton Dee
4 Scotstown Moor (Perwinnes Moss) 8Brimmond Hill 12 Culter Compensation Dam 16 Gough Burn
Local Nature Reserve (LNR)
1 Donmouth 2 Kincorth Hill 3 Den of Maidencraig 4 Scotstown Moor
Tree Preservation Order (TPO) (Examples)
1 8.4 Garthdee 4 16 Danestone House 6 24 Stoneyhill Wood 8 35 Cults Den
2 9.1 Braes of Don 5 17 Cornhill Hospital 7 34 Den of Maidencraig 9 55 Culter Burn
3 11 Lochside and Denmore
Conservation Area (CA)
1 Old Aberdeen 4 Albyn and Rubislaw 7 Great Western Road 10 Pitfodels
2 Union Street 5 Marine Terrace 8 Cove Bay 11 Rosemount and Westburn
3 Bon Accord/Crown Street 6 Footdee 9 Ferryhill
Invasive Non Native Species
American Mink (Mustela vison) Rhododendron ponticum and
hybrids
Himalyan Balsam Water crowfoot
North America Cray Fish (Pacifastacus
Leniuscula)
Wire weed (Sargassum
muticum)
Hogweed Grey squirrel (Scirius caolinensis)
New Zealand pygmyweed (Crassula helmsii) Japanese knotweed (Reynourtia
japonica)
Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 Schedule V Species
1 Catoptria permutatella 3 Otter Lutra lutra
2 Red Squirrel Sciurus vulgaris 4 Common Toad Bufo bufo
5 Bottle-Nosed Dolphin
Tursiops truncates
6 Bats (All species)
161
Additional Data on Population and Human Health
Like Scotland, the 3 biggest killers in Aberdeen are coronary heart disease, cancer and strokes. To
address health issues in the City, The Joint Health Improvement Plan (JHIP), part of the community
plan for Aberdeen was introduced for 2005-2008. It sets out the main priorities for the city community
planning partners - the public sector, voluntary organisations and the community. The JHIP identifies
the key health improvement issues facing the city, set within the context of the national framework,
Improving Health in Scotland, The Challenge (2003). It outlines how these challenges will be tackled
through a shared approach and common goals to improve health and reduce inequalities by the
concerted action of the community planning partnership. The Aberdeen City Alliance (TACA) is
charged with achieving these challenges.
Issue Implications Related Illness
Air quality Air quality in the City is impacted
extensively by transport and other forms
of energy consumption that releases
toxic fumes.
Can aggravate existing respiratory
conditions such as bronchitis and
asthma and can increase the
incidence of cardiovascular illness
and strokes.
Land
contamination
Land contamination of hazardous
chemicals such as metals and persistent
organic compounds increases the
potential for chemical exposure through
uptake into the food chain, direct contact
with soil or contamination of water
supplies.
Could result in acute illness due to
microbiological exposures (e.g.
Escherichia coli type 0157) or longterm
effects such as increase in
cancer risk. Lead exposure can
result in neurodevelopment
disorders.
Land Access to green space can improve
health by providing opportunities for
physical exercise, and has been shown
to improve mental well-being and patient
recovery time.
Can help prevent the onset of heart
disease and
Water quality Pollution can affect drinking water,
recreational waters and areas where, for
example, shellfish are harvested and
thereby may enter the food chain.
Microbiological contamination (e.g.
Escherichia coli type 0157
contamination of bathing waters)
can give rise to gastrointestinal
illness.
Waste Poorly managed landfilling and
incineration can sometimes expose
people to water and air pollutants with
the potential for toxic or carcinogenic
effects. Landfills, composting and the
application of sewage sludge to land
may result in localised nuisance.
May result in respiratory illness or
cancer.
Climate Change It is predicted that climate change
impacts in Scotland may in general lead
to an increase in illness. Non seasonal
illness may increase, leading to extra
costs for sick leave and cover.
Flood-related illness (e.g. stress,
infections associated with sewage
contamination) and heat distress
and fewer cold-related deaths.
Injuries may result from more
extreme weather events. Foreign
diseases and viruses may be able
to survive our climate.
162
8 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment
This Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) is designed to inform the Aberdeen
Local Development Plan Main Issues Report. A SFRA involves the collection,
analysis and presentation of all existing and readily available flood risk information
(from any source) for the area of interest. It constitutes a strategic overview of flood
risk, without necessarily meeting the reporting requirements of a detailed Flood Risk
Assessment and has been executed as a desk top study. However, in some
instances, greater detail may be required (if appropriate) to inform the Main Issues
Report or the ALDP. Part of a SFRA could be the identification of priority areas for
more detailed analysis.
Sources of information on SFRAs are set out in Appendix 1 of the Technical Flood
Risk Guidance for Stakeholders which was produced by SEPA. Those considered
appropriate to Aberdeen are briefly set out below.
Biennial Flood Reports
These reports specify the measures that Aberdeen City Council has undertaken to
meet its duties under the Flood Prevention (Scotland) Act 1961 as amended by the
Flood Prevention and Land Drainage (Scotland) Act 1997. It details flood prevention
measures and strategies for preventing and mitigating flooding, including proposals
and expenditure for the future. Flood and road drainage incidents are reported and
measures which dealt with them are outlined. The 6th
Report covers the period up to
November 2007.
Flood Prevention Schemes and other studies
Over the last few years there have been a number of studies that have either been
carried out or are proposed in Aberdeen.
1. Glashieburn, Bridge of Don. This is located on the Glashieburn close to Lochside
Drive. Works here are now complete. The Main Issues Report is considering a
small rezoning of land on the other side of Scotstown Road close to Glashieburn
Avenue from Urban Green Space to Residential. This area is already developed
and the rezoning is a reflection of what is already there. The MIR does not
propose any specific development and does not make an allocation there.
Nevertheless, should any planning applications arise to extend or change any
existing uses there, it may be appropriate to consider the requirement for a
detailed Floor Risk Assessment.
2. West Cults Farm, Cults. It is understood that the Council has been investigating
the need to carry out a Flood Prevention Scheme in this area. It is currently
zoned as green belt. Although developers have submitted a development option
on rising land immediately to the north of the farm, the Main Issues Report does
not propose any changes to the green belt status in the area.
3. Fraser Road. This is part of the built up area to the north of Hutcheon Street and
flood prevention works were successfully completed there in 2004. In association
with this a flood detention basin was formed in Westburn Park. Since this was
carried out, no further flood incidents were reported in the 2007 Biennial Report.
The land at Fraser Road is zoned as Mixed Use in the current local plan and
there are no changes proposed to this in the Main Issues Report. The MIR does
however identify a brownfield redevelopment opportunity at Park House which
163
lies directly between these two areas. Given its location, it may be appropriate to
consider the requirement for a detailed Floor Risk Assessment.
4. A hydrological study was commissioned in 2007 to investigate flooding problems
in Northfield, Middlefiield, Cummings Park and Logie. This may lead to the
development of flood mitigation measures and ways to improve the drainage of
the area.
5. The 6th
Biennial Flood Report proposed the promotion of a flood prevention
scheme to tackle flooding issues at the Persley Waste Water Treatment Works.
The works are shown as part of the green belt in the 2008 Aberdeen Local Plan
and there are no proposals to change this in the Main Issues Report.
British Hydrological Society
This website contains a historical chronology of British hydrological events largely
taken from documentary evidence. A number of flood events were noted during the
early 20th
century, mainly concerning flood damage along the Rivers Don and Dee.
Only one specific place is mentioned, the Bleachfield Works alongside the River Dee
which was flooded following heavy rain in October 1920.
Flood Events
Flood and drainage problems are highlighted in the Biennial Flood Reports. In
addition two flood events on the Rivers Don and Dee have been mapped on the
Council’s Geographic Information System. These took place in September 1995 and
November 2002 and are generally confined to the main river valley floors. Officers
took account of these maps when assessing the development options which we
received prior to the publication of the Main Issues Report. Where a potential flood
risk was identified, this was highlighted in the assessments.
SEPA Flood Maps
SEPA’s Flood Maps are available on their website and show areas of land which are
at risk of river and coastal flooding. They formed an important part of our
assessment of development options and of the SEA of sites. Any potential flood risk
is identified in these assessments. Some of the preferred sites in the Main Issues
Report are shown to be close to or part of areas at risk of flooding. However, the
flood maps are indicative in nature and where there is a risk identified, there may be
localised circumstances which would allow some development to take place, or
where only a small part of a larger site is at risk. In such circumstances we have
taken this issue into account when estimating the site’s capacity for development.
Specific areas highlighted in the assessments are;
o The Burn of Mundurno at Dubford, Bridge of Don
o The River Don at Stoneywood
o The Green Burn and Gough Burn at Craibstone and Dyce Drive
o The Bucksburn Gorge at Greenferns
There may be a requirement for further consideration of these issues following the
publication of the Main Issues Report and the consultation responses to it.
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Aberdeen Beach Recharge
To protect the revetment and area around Aberdeen beach from continued erosion
and failure, a programme of beach recharge took place in July and August 2006.
This programme protected property and infrastructure and provided an enhanced
beach for recreational use. To ensure the stability of the new beach and to protect
the area from further erosion, rock t-head extensions to the present timber groynes
were constructed to keep the sand in place. Computer modelling of the coastline,
experience gained from elsewhere, and an economic analysis of the cost of the
options, indicated that this was the best option for protecting the beach.
Future Issues
The City Council gave a response to the Rural Affairs and Environment Committee of
the Scottish Parliament on an inquiry into Flooding and Flood Management which
focussed on climate change issues. A full response can be found on the internet at
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/S3/committees/rae/inquiries/flooding/AberdeenCity
Council.htm
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9 Maps
Map 1 Aberdeen Green Space Network
Source: http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/acci/web/files/LocalPlan/LocalPlan.pdf
There are 2,264.75 hectares of open space parks and gardens in the City. This includes public and
private open land subject to access but does not include Forestry Commission Woodlands.
There is six Forestry Commission woodlands which encircle the City.
Woodland covers 10% of the City area See table below.
Woodland in and around town
Region Population
('000) *1
Urban
area (ha)
*1
Woodland area
(ha) *1 *2
Woodland
cover (%)
Woodland area
per 1000 pop. (ha)
Derelict
land (ha)
*3
Aberdeen
City
201 10600 1062 10 5.3 105
Source: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-6AZJTY
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Map 2 Listed Buildings
Map 3 Conservation Areas
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Map 4 Townscapes ‘The Green’
Map 5 Designated Landscapes and Gardens ‘Duthie Park’
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Map 6 Scheduled Ancient Monuments
Map 7 Sites and Monuments Record
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Map 8 Development Options
Please refer to the ALDP for the maps of the preferred option. These maps indicate the
location of the alternative sites assessed within Appendix 7.k.
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Map 9 Masterplan Zones
Masterplan Zone Sites included
1 Dubford & Murcar
OP25 Dubford
OP2 Murcar
2 Grandhome
OP12 Grandhome
OP10 East Woodcroft
3 Stoneywood OP24 Stoneywood
4 Newhills Expansion & Dyce Drive
OP26 Walton Farm & Craibstone North
OP29 Craibstone South
OP30 Rowett South
OP28 Rowett North
OP31 Greenferns Landward
5 Greenferns OP45 Greenferns
6 Maidencraig
OP43 Maidencraig South East
OP44 Maidencraig North East
7 Kingswells
OP40 West Hatton, Home Farm, Home Farm Kingswells
OP41 Kingswells C
OP42 Kingswells D and West Huxterstone
8 Countesswells OP58 Countesswells
9 Friarsfield OP51 Friarsfield
10 Oldfold Farm OP62 Oldfold
11 Loirston
OP79 Blackhills of Cairnrobin
OP78 Charlestown
OP77 Loirston
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Map 10 Aberdeen Beach Masterplan
Map 11 Regeneration Priority Areas