LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

in relation to an Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Facility at Auchentiber, Inverclyde

On behalf of Loganwood Group Ltd

Contents

1. Introduction

2. Methodology

3. Context and Landscape Setting

4. Planning Context

5. Landscape Character

6. Proposed Development

7. Site Analysis

8. Visual Appraisal

9. Photo Montages

10. Cumulative Impacts

11. Conclusions

12. Recommendations

Illustrations

L1 Location & Context

L2 Topography

L3 ZTV (5km)

L4 Photo Montage Locations

Photo Montages 1 to 8

L5 Cumulative Development

Appendices

1. Assessment of Visual Receptors

2. Documents used in the preparation of this report.

3. Practice Information

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 The following study sets out a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment of the potential effects of creating a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facility at Auchentiber in Inverclyde. This would sit within a field south of Auchentiber Road in the Gryfe River Valley between Port Glasgow and Kilmacolm.

1.2 The land immediately adjacent to the west of the site is also subject to an application for a similar BESS facility and the proposed site will be considered in conjunction with the potential granting and construction of this, as part of the landscape context of development.

1.3 The proposed site lies within Inverclyde Council’s jurisdiction, so the following planning documents have been reviewed.

• Inverclyde Local Development Plan 2019

• Inverclyde Core Paths Plan – 2019

1.4 Documents and reference databases which will be referred to in the course of this study will be:

• National Planning Framework 4 (February 2023)

• Nature Scots online database of Landscape Character Types

• Glasgow and Clyde Valley landscape character assessment

• Past Map (pastmap.org.uk)

• Scotland’s Environment (www.environment.gov.scot)

1.5 This assessment will firstly look at the location and context of the site, taking account of surrounding settlement patterns, transport networks, cultural heritage features and nature conservation designations It will also consider any constraints set out in the current Local Development Plan, where they relate to the landscape or surrounding context These factors will set out the base line conditions for the existing landscape against any assessment of potential impacts will be made.

1.6 A review of the physical conditions of the site will be carried out and any constraints identified, followed by a review of the potential visual impacts which a development of this kind may produce. This will be based on a full review of the significant visual receptors in the landscape identified in the baseline study and then falling within the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) model. This ZTV model will be prepared using Key-Terra Firma software and based upon Ordnance Survey topographical data to produce a bare earth representation of the locations within the landscape where visual impacts may be possible. From this initial starting point, further on-site assessment is undertaken to determine the extent and nature of any visual impacts

1.7 This assessment is supported by a set photographic study to illustrate the finding of the visual impact assessment which will produce a set of photo montages for the development as proposed. These will include a computer-generated model of the buildings proposed along with the access roads and infrastructure and proposed earthworks and changes in level – including retaining wall. This will be set within a wireframe model of the landscape generated from Ordnance Survey topographical data and GPS positional technology to create accurate representations of the scaled development within the landscape from key viewpoints This representation can then be superimposed upon photographs taken from the viewpoints to show a reasonable illustration of what the development may look like, and more importantly the potential visual impact of it within the landscape.

1.8 A set of overall constraints to development will be highlighted and recommendations set out.

Fig 1 – Aerial Photograph taken from Google Earth

2. METHODOLOGY

2.1 The subject of this study is the assessment and mitigation of potential landscape and visual impacts of the proposed development at Auchentiber Road, Inverclyde. The following methodology sets out the parameters for conducting this study.

2.2 This study will consider the wider context of the landscape in which the site is located Elements such as settlements, transport links, core paths, recreational attractions, Tree Preservation Orders, and cultural and natural heritage designations are examined in this section and the relevant conclusions drawn. These elements will form the core of the baseline conditions against which the assessment of impact can be made.

2.3 National Planning Framework 4 was published in February 2023 and sets out the national approach to planning issues and gives the context in which policy should be set and ultimately decisions made regarding development in the coming years. This is a relatively new document, and its full implications may not yet have been fully digested by the range of authorities and developers who it will affect, and it has not yet had a chance to affect local planning policy. It will however be applied to any decision-making process relating to this proposal. The current Policy document is the Inverclyde Local Development Plan adopted in 2019 and its associated supporting and supplementary guidance documents These will be considered in the course of the assessment and any landscape related constraints or issues assessed.

2.4 The Landscape Character of the site and surroundings is then examined in relation to “SNH National Landscape Character Assessment” particularly “Landscape Character Assessment: Glasgow and the Clyde Valley - Landscape Evolution and Influences” and its subsequent Landscape Character Type definitions These documents supersedes, but draws from, the original ““NatureScot Review 116 – Glasgow and Clyde Valley landscape character assessment”, 1999, Land Use Consultants in association with Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division”, which set out the officially accepted description of the character of the site and surrounding environment These documents contain guidelines for development within the landscape, and these have been taken into consideration

2.5 Following this, the physical conditions of the site itself are addressed through the study of the site’s topography, gradients, vegetation and built forms. Other detailed assessments of ecology, arboriculture and archaeology have also been carried out upon the site and any implications resulting from these will be considered. This is followed up with a photographic study of the site, illustrating the conditions and features that currently exist.

2.6 The visual impact of any development of the site is then looked at in more detail This will be carried out using Key Terra Firma ground modelling software to anticipate the visual range of the development by creating a Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) map based upon Ordnance Survey topographical data. In this case two ZTV drawings have been prepared to illustrate the potential visibility of the energy crop plantation and of the proposed service area as these have varying degrees of potential impact This potential difference in impacts will be considered throughout the subsequent visual impacts assessment.

2.7 An assessment of the visual receptors within the area, which fall within the zone of theoretical visibility envelopes, is then undertaken considering individual dwellings, leisure facilities, businesses, and farms over a range of 1km, towns and settlements, transport links, cultural Heritage features and any natural heritage designations or sites. Any issues or potential impacts have been highlighted and supported by a photographic study.

2.8 From the conclusions drawn, a set of constraints to development and any necessary mitigation is compiled and recommendations are made for the development of the site with the least degree of impact.

2.9 The overall methodology has been undertaken in accordance with the recommendations of “Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Third Edition) published by the Landscape Institute in conjunction with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment.

3. CONTEXT AND LANDSCAPE SETTING

3.1 Drawing L1 shows a study area extending over a 5km radius from the site. This area will be assessed in detail, as being the landscape where impacts could potentially result from a development of this size and nature Impacts are highly likely to diminish rapidly with distance from the site so subdivisions of 1km and 2km have been shown to highlight the range that a feature or receptor has from the proposals. In unusual circumstances, there may be potential impacts which extend further than 5km from the site. Any potential longer ranging impacts will also be considered.

Context

3.2 The site lies within the Gryfe Water Valley on the raised landscape above the Clyde Estuary’s southern shore. The coastal towns of Port Glasgow and Greenock lie to the north and north west respectively. To the south east the small town of Kilmacolm lies along the Gryfe Valley but the wider landscape is rural in nature with large stands of plantation woodland and notable wind turbine and overhead power transmission lines crossing the landscape Agriculture is the predominant land use in the study area but raised areas of landscape transition into more natural heath and moor and a large area to the north is taken up by the open water of the estuary.

3.3 Of note is the proposed Battery Energy Storage System development for the fields immediately adjacent to the west along the valley. These have not yet been consented or are present in the landscape in any form but there is a presence of energy related development in the wider landscape with the Devol Moor Electricity Sub Station to the north west and turbines at Inverclyde Wind Farm and Priest side to the north of the valley.

Topography

3.4 Drawing L2 shows the topography of the 5km study area The topography show great variation with the low-lying water of the Clyde to the north lying at 0m (AOD) which rises steeply from the coastal shelf up a steep but extensively settlement escarpment to a higher-level plateau of more open and undeveloped land This is the landscape in which the site lies, in the shallow valley of the Gryfe Water which runs approximately west to east before turning south east towards Kilmacolm, Bridge of Weir and Renfrewshire. There is much localised variation within the landscape, albeit not as dramatic as the rise from the estuary This provides variety and shelter within the landscape with some notable hills such as Jock’s Craig (192m AOD) to the south east of the site. To the south west of the study area the landscape rises markedly area across the Renfrewshire Heights to a height of 380m (AOD) within the study area but continuing to rise beyond. This area is designated as a SSSI largely based upon its value as a nesting site for Hen Harriers.

Transport Links

3.5 The rural nature of the landscape around the site is such that rounds close to it tend to be narrow and even single-track routes providing access to farms and dwellings Auchentiber Road to the immediate north of the site is one such road although it provides a link between the busier A761 and B788 to east and west. The majority of traffic will be local access however, with High Mathernock Road performing a similar function, without the through route Devol road to the north of the site appears to be a historic route to Port Glasgow but is also closed to through traffic It remains a pedestrian route and Core Path The main route through the study area is the B788 Auchenfoil Road to the west which links Kilmacolm with Port Glasgow and Greenock.

Core Paths

3.6 There are several Core Path Routes identified in the Inverclyde Core Path Plan which pass close to the site These all tend to follow the road links described above but provide more continuous routes for pedestrians and cyclists.

Fig 2 – Excerpt from the Inverclyde Council Core Paths Plan – site

Renfrewshire Heights (SSSI / SPA)

Knocknairs Hill (SSSI)

Dargavel Burn (SSSI)

Inner Clyde (SSSI / SPA)

Glen Moss (SSSI)

Findlaystone House (GDL)

Duchal House (GDL)

Kilmacolm (CA)

The CrossKilmacolm (CA) Quarriers Village (CA)

Devol Rd Upland (LNCS 12)

Crosshill Rd Heath (LNCS 13)

Jock’s Craig to Blach’s Craig (LNCS 15)

Green River (LNCS 39)

3.7 The landscape around the site has been settled for thousands of years and as such there are many remnants of historic, cultural, and industrial heritage features across the study area. Impacts upon the settings of these features and visual impacts experienced by them, will be considered in the course of this study, along with other features within the study area as listed below.

3.8 Listed Buildings - within 1km

• None within this range

3.9 Scheduled Monuments - within 2km

i. High Mathernock AA Battery

ii. Pennytersal Farm, Motte

3.10 Gardens and Designed Landscapes - within 5km

• Duchal House

• Finlaystone House

3.11 Conservation Areas - within 5km

• The Cross, Kilmalcolm

• Kilmacolm

3.12 World Heritage Site – within 5km

• None within this range

Natural Heritage

3.13 A study to determine the presence of any significant conservation designations within the 5km study area, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Special Protection Area (SPA), Special Area of Conservation (SAC), National or Local Nature Reserve (NNR/LNR) or RAMSAR or any other designations such as Country Parks has been undertaken

A. Inner Clyde (SSSI / SPA)

B. Knocknairs Hill (SSSI)

C. Glen Moss (SSSI)

D. Dargavel Burn (SSSI)

E. Renfrewshire Heights (SSSI/SPA)

3.14 In addition, the Local Development Plan identifies several Local Nature Conservation Site (LNCS) across the council area which are local designations designed to give a degree

of recognition and protection to natural features within the Council area Those which lie within 2km of the site are identified below.

F. Devol Road Upland (LNCS)

G. Crosshill Road Heath (LNCS)

H. Jock’s Craig to Black Craig (LNCS)

I. Green Water (LNCS)

3.15 These features are shown on drawing L1

Conclusions

3.16 There are no significant settlements or designation which apply to the landscape of the site and no specific contextual features within the landscape which would constrain development

4. PLANNING CONTEXT

National Planning Framework 4

4.1 The National Planning Framework 4 was published in February 2023 and sets out the planning context for Scotland for the coming years This takes a broad strategic view on planning issues with the intent of creating a more balanced and sustainable planning policy set up with communities and the environment at the forefront. There are elements to consider in relation to the proposed development of the site at Auchentiber Road, but the key element will likely be in the protection of existing and promotion of new and improved levels of biodiversity. This effect is known as biodiversity net gain or enhancement and works on the principle that wherever possible the highest value habitats within the landscape must be protected and integrated into the design of a scheme and where this cannot be achieved, an enhancement (or net gain) in value must be achieved through compensation. The relative baseline value of the habitats affected would be identified through initial assessment and will dictate the degree of action required to achieve a net gain in the proposals This will require a higher degree of involvement of ecologist and designers at the outset to ensure that these requirements can be achieved by developers.

Inverclyde Local Development Plan

4.2 The site lies within Inverclyde Councils area and as such is subject to the policies of the Inverclyde Local Plan. The excerpt from the LDP proposal map shown in figure 3 indicates that the site is part of the Green Belt. This is addressed through Policy 15 Green Belt and Countryside which states:

“Policy 15 - Green Belt and Countryside

Development in the Green Belt and Countryside will only be permitted if it is appropriately designed, located, and landscaped, and is associated with:

• agriculture, horticulture, woodland or forestry;

• a tourism or recreational use that requires a countryside location;

• infrastructure with a specific locational need;

• the appropriate re-use of a redundant stone or brick building, the retention of which is desirable for its historic interest or architectural character, subject to that interest or character being retained; or

• intensification (including extensions and outbuildings) within the curtilage of an existing use, which is of an appropriate scale and form.

Proposals associated with the uses set out in criteria a)-c) must provide justification as to why the development is required at the proposed location. Proposals in the green belt must not undermine the objectives of the green belt as set out in Scottish Planning Policy and the Clydeplan Strategic Development Plan. Non-conforming uses will only be considered favourably in exceptional or mitigating circumstances.”

4.3 The Green Belt is intended to control development rather than preclude it entirely and there is provision within the policy for development where there is a locational need. This type of infrastructure development is unsuited to being with settlements due to its site and nature and therefore will generally be required to be located within the countryside somewhere. Provided that impacts can be shown to be acceptable, the proposals should be worthy of consideration within the Green Belt area.

4.4 Other policies which may be relevant are listed below and will be considered in more detail in the course of the assessment. In brief these are:

• Policy 31

- Scheduled Monuments and

Archaeological

Sites

– The site is not designated as a cultural heritage feature therefore any impacts would be visual and considered in the course of the assessment

Fig 3 Excerpt from Inverclyde Local Development Plan Proposal Map - site location is indicated with red line with the other proposed adjacent proposal shown in blue

• Policy 33 – Biodiversity and Geodiversity – the site is currently an agricultural field and of limited (albeit some) biodiversity value. Any proposals should seek to limit impact on higher value features such as trees, hedgerows, or the river corridor should be retained and enhanced where possible and additional biodiversity measures incorporated to produce a net gain for the development.

• Policy 34 – Landscape – Consideration will be given to the defined Landscape Character in the course of this assessment.

• Policy 35 – Trees, Woodland and Forestry – there is no tree cover upon the site and any in the adjacent landscape would be protected in the course of the development as required

• Policy 36 – Safeguarding Green Infrastructure – the site is open countryside but as agricultural land it does not form part of any formal or informal recreational or sports ground. Access is not encouraged from the public nor does it for any part of the Core Paths system. Adjacent Core Paths would be unaffected.

• Policy 39 – Water Environment – the southern boundary of the site meets the River Gryfe but the development is proposed to be in the northern part of eth site. There should therefore be no impact upon the physical landscape of the watercourse and run off from the site would be attenuated on site through the proposed SuDs basin system.

4.5 Full consideration to the planning context of the proposals will be given by others for the proposals

Conclusions

4.6 Ther site is part of the designated Green Belt in the Local Development Plan but there is provision for allowing development where there is a locational need. The nature of this infrastructure development is such that it cannot be located within a settlement so provided impact are deemed acceptable, there should be scope to consider the proposals under this policy. There would be no significant impact which results from the proposals under other landscape related planning policy.

5. LANDSCAPE CHARACTER

5.1 The land of the study area was originally defined in the “NatureScot Review 116 –Glasgow and Clyde Valley landscape character assessment”, 1999, Land Use Consultants in association with Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division. This has since been superseded by the “Landscape Character Assessment: Glasgow and Clyde Valley - Landscape Evolution and Influences” and subsequent landscape character type definition, which draw heavily from the original document as much of the information remains relevant

5.2 The NatureScot landscape character type database defines the Rugged Upland Farmland (202) landscape type as follows (where relevant):

Location and Context

5.3 The Rugged Upland Farmland Landscape Character Type, which shares many of the attributes of Plateau Farmland – Glasgow & Clyde Valley, is found in Kilmacolm, Johnstone and Neilston. It occurs in lnverclyde, Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire local authority areas, north and west of Newton Mearns, where the smooth plateau farmlands and higher plateau moorlands give way to a more rugged farmland landscape, forming a transition to the rugged moorland area further north west.

Key Characteristics

• Rugged landform comprising rocky bluffs and shallow troughs.

• Reservoirs in flooded troughs.

• Dominance of pastoral farming.

• Frequent tree cover often emphasising landform, for example concentrated on bluffs and outcrops.

• Settlement limited to farms and villages.

Landscape Character Description – Landform

5.4 The Rugged Upland Farmland landscapes are, for the large part underlain by millstone grits and carboniferous limestone with peripheral, higher areas of basalt. They are characterised, to a greater or lesser degree, by a rugged, hummocky landscape of steep, craggy bluffs interspersed with gentler farmland. Many of the troughs and valleys are flooded, providing reservoirs for urban areas to the north. …..

Landcover

5.5 Woodland cover is relatively extensive, providing an important structural element, with many of the rugged hillocks covered in stands of beech or pine. The more hospitable areas are mostly improved pasture (mainly given over to sheep farming). Beech hedgerow trees are a distinctive feature in many parts of this landscape, often associated with past estates.

Settlement

5.6 Farms and villages tend to be concentrated in more sheltered areas, particularly near the northern edge of these areas. Scattered farms tucked into the hillsides are an important

landscape feature. The majority are white-washed with gabled, grey slate roofs and comprise a 1- or 2-storey house closely surrounded by byres and other farm buildings.

5.7 ………..The Kilmacolm area contains a number of small towns or villages including Kilmacolm, Bridge or Weir, Houston, Quarriers Village and Erskine. Kilmacolm and Bridge of Weir have village cores containing traditional vernacular buildings, surrounded large areas of high-quality 19th and early 20th Century villas. Quarriers Village is a distinctive group of late 19th Century villas designed to house orphaned and destitute children in family-sized units. The villas are laid out in spacious landscaped grounds planted with individual shrubs and small trees and are distinguished by the lack of fences, hedges, or other boundary treatments between the buildings.

5.8 The Kilmacolm area contains a number of designed landscapes, many of them relatively complete. Two, Duchal House and Formakin are listed in the Inventory of Gardens and designed Landscapes. The Duchal House landscape incorporates formal early 18th Century planting and informal 19th Century planting. The Formakin landscape contains an important number of picturesquely-grouped Scots Renaissance style buildings by the architect Sir Robert Lorimer. All parts of the Landscape Character Type contain the remains of 18th and 19th Century policy planting from less intact estates.

5.9 Scheduled hillforts, mottes, and other defensive sites, typically located on prominent rocky knolls or hilltops are located throughout this Landscape Character Type. These are most numerous in the Kilmacolm area. Although locally prominent in the landscape the undulating topography means that they tend to be less visible from a distance.

5.10 Although this area does not include urban areas, influences include electricity infrastructure and masts, particularly around Gleniffer Braes, some forestry, isolated suburban development, settlement expansion and the aural impact of aircraft approaching or leaving Glasgow Airport.

Perception

5.11 Views are relatively contained within the western areas of this landscape, which are fringed by higher ground. The valley of Strathgryffe channels views locally………..

Conclusions

5.12 The description within the landscape character type provides a great deal of information on the area around the River Gryfe although not specifically the site area. It also does not consider the type of development proposed which is a relatively new kind of facility. It can be considered that the location and nature of the BESS will be out of keeping with the existing landscape character – as it would be with any rural location, but the existing infrastructure in the surrounding landscape creates a precedent The degree to which the proposed development influences the character of the wider landscape will also be a consideration which will form part of the visual impacts assessment.

6. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

6.1 The proposals are to develop the site for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facility. This consists of a series of 87no battery units and associated apparatus in rows and columns to the northern part of the site, surrounded by an acoustic fence The requirement is to create a level platform to accommodate the apparatus therefore a retaining wall will be required to drop the levels at the north of the site This will create

a platform at 139m (AOD) which will continue across approx. 60% of the way south across the site where an embankment will fall to rejoin the natural levels of the landscape A SuDs basin will be formed on the lower ground to attenuate any rain water run off before release to the river Access will be taken from the north west and north eastern corners of the site from Auchentiber Road The proposal is to plant structural woodland around the periphery of the site to mitigate potential visual impacts and also enhance biodiversity across the site.

6.2 A proposal for the land adjacent to the east seeks to create a similar facility but with a larger capacity and greater number of battery units, split into two sections with sub station between This is currently the subject of a planning application which at the time of assessment was not yet determined.

Fig 4 Proposed adjacent BESS Facility

Fig 5 Plan of the proposed BESS facility

7. SITE ANALYSIS

Site Analysis

7.1 The image below shows the site in its current context with the line of the River Gryfe visible to the southern boundary and Auchentiber Road to the north. It is broadly triangular in shape, tapering towards the southern end. It is approximately 8.31Ha in area.

7.2 Also shown is the outline of the adjacent proposed BESS site to the west. This is approximately 16.28Ha in area, although both facilities would occupy a smaller footprint within the boundaries The field to the eastern side of the site would remain open farm land with High Mathernock Farm and Loganwood house to the far lever right of the image The High Mathernock Battery site can be seem towards the bottom right south of the river.

Topography

7.3 The site slopes from north to south down from Auchentiber Road from a height of approx. 145m (AOD) down to 133m (AOD) on the southern boundary at the river The gradient is relatively consistent with localised rises and falls and some depressions in pockets across the site which tend to be damper ground underfoot.

Boundaries

7.4 The northern boundary to the site is set by Auchentiber Road although a grass verge lines the road and then a low drystone wall in poor condition and a dilapidated post and wire fence an access point lies midway along this boundary which curves at a bend close to this, and the junction with Devol Road.

7.5 The western boundary is set by a linear field drain and hawthorn hedge and the eastern boundary by a hawthorn hedge with a post and wire fence separating it form the field to the east The southern boundary with the river is marked with a post and wire fence and some scattered multi-stem scrubby bushes along the bank.

Structures

7.6 There are no structures upon the site beyond the low drystone wall to the northern boundary

Vegetation

7.7 There is no notable vegetation upon the site beyond planted crop areas and boundary hedges Some depressed areas of ground exist where vegetation appears different but these are due to damper ground conditions rather than significant vegetation variations.

Watercourses

7.8 There are no watercourses upon the site, but the River Gryfe runs immediately to the south The proposed development would be to the northern part of the site well away from the river bank. A small linear field drain also runs along the western boundary of the field to the river, passing under Auchentiber Road from the north via a stone bridge to the west of the site Again, development would be away from the boundary and impact would be avoided.

Archaeology

7.9 There is no record of any archaeological finds or cultural heritage designations.

Conclusions

7.10 Beyond the loss of agricultural land there are no significant constraints to the development of the site.

Fig 6 Aerial image of the site area with the boundary superimposed in red. Adjacent proposed site in blue.

8. VISUAL APPRAISAL

8.1 The following is a study of the visual envelope that the proposed development would be anticipated to create, i.e. the parcel of land from which the development would be seen For the purposes of this study an area of 5km in all directions from the site was therefore used for a detailed visual analysis. This is considered as a more than adequate radius to cover the likely impacts caused by the development within this landscape and given the contextual factors described in the previous sections. The ZTV is based on a visibility of points 8m from the ground across the site, to represent two storey buildings where a reasonable section of the roof might be seen The analysis follows the method set out in “Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Assessment” Third Edition 2013, published by the Landscape Institute.

8.2 The visual envelope has been established through ground model analysis software and topographical Land-Form PROFILE data supplied by Ordnance Survey. The ‘Zones of Theoretical Visibility’ (ZTV) output data show the areas from which the site can be seen based on the topography of the landscape alone The ground model takes no account of settlements or built structures in the landscape and is a “Bare Earth” representation.

8.3 Within the ZTV, there will be areas, which will have more visual sensitivity than others. Elements from which the site can be seen from are referred to as visual receptors. These visual receptors have been considered through desktop study and then on-site analysis.

Theoretical Visibility over 5km

8.4 Drawings L5 shows the ZTV for the proposed development, overlaid on a Landranger Ordnance Survey map over 5km. Coloured areas show a theoretical visibility of the development, and clear areas show that views will not be possible from these locations. Radii of 1km, 2km and 5km have been added to show the range at which potential views would be over.

8.5 The drawing shows a visual envelope which is mostly contained within the section of the Gryffe River Valley between High Mathernock to the east and B788 Auchenfoil Road to the west. Some potential views extend further to the west along the valley and across the high ground to the south west but for the most part any potential visibility is limited to a contained area by the topography of the valley.

Receptors

8.6 An assessment of the impact upon the main settlements which lie within a 5km radius of the site has been made. Drawing L5 show the Zones of Theoretical Visibility or ZTV diagram over 5km which has also been prepared using the method described previously

Coloured areas show a theoretical visibility of the development and clear areas show that views will not be possible from these locations. In addition to the settlements there are other features such as transport routes, core paths, regional parks and cycle networks which are also considered as receptors requiring analysis.

Determination of impact levels

8.7 Impacts reduce considerably the further the receptor is from the development. The sensitivity of the receptor is then considered to ascertain its susceptibility to impact This is assessed through consideration of the nature of the receptor i.e. the number of people who might see a development and the reason they are there i.e. a passing view or a permanent residence. Permanent residences will have a potentially high sensitivity to visual impact in their primary views (and to a lesser extent in their secondary views) as will tourist attractions or landscapes with designated value. Transport routes, industrial complexes and farms may have less sensitivity and some conservation sites or historic features may have even less The level of sensitivity will vary in each case and a brief explanation of each sensitivity classification is given for each receptor.

8.8 The impacts of the proposal are then assessed, firstly based on the visual envelope model, and then through site study which will establish a predicted magnitude of change in the views from a receptor, should the development be implemented. This will be determined by assessing the existing view of the site from the receptor and predicting how this will change, taking into account the distance to the development, the existing features and screening elements (or lack of), the orientation of primary views and the overall composition of the view in light of the proposal. In this case the increased development area. A resultant predicted impact derived is the ‘magnitude of change’ caused by the proposal in relation to what exists at present.

8.9 The resulting impact takes into consideration the distance to the receptor, the sensitivity of the receptor and the magnitude of change caused by implementing the proposal. This is subject to the professional opinion of the landscape architect, through basing the assessment on physical data and on-site observation. It is intended that the resultant impact will represent as true a reflection as is possible.

8.10 The level of sensitivity and the level of impact are each assessed according to one of following levels:

• None / Negligible

• Low

• Medium to Low

• Medium

Renfrewshire Heights (SSSI / SPA)

Knocknairs Hill (SSSI)

Dargavel Burn (SSSI)

Inner Clyde (SSSI / SPA)

Glen Moss (SSSI)

Findlaystone House (GDL)

Duchal House (GDL)

Kilmacolm (CA)

The CrossKilmacolm (CA) Quarriers Village (CA)

Devol Rd Upland (LNCS 12)

Crosshill Rd Heath (LNCS 13)

Jock’s Craig to Blach’s Craig (LNCS 15)

Green River (LNCS 39)

• High to Medium

• High

8.11 The receptors have been separated into five categories listed below:

• Farms, Dwellings and Small Hamlets

• Towns and Villages

• Transport Routes

• Cultural Heritage

• Nature Conservation

8.12 Full details of the analysis of visual receptors are provided in the appendix of this document and the findings are summarised in the paragraphs which follow.

Farms, Dwellings and Small Hamlets

8.13 There are a few scattered dwellings and farms within the valley but few with clear views to the proposed development The house at Cauldside, retreat at Horsecraigs and to a lesser extent High Mathernock Farm / Loganwood House, will have some views of the facility but partially obscured by existing tree cover along the river This could be mitigated through additional planting along the southern and eastern boundaries of the site.

Towns and Villages

8.14 There are no settlements of any significance within the visual envelope and therefore there will be no impact upon this type of visual receptor.

Transport Routes

8.15 The road network around the site, and in the visual envelope contained within the Gryffe Valley is restricted to narrow local country roads which provide access to farms and dwellings These do not carry much traffic or are regularly used by travellers in the wider context. Sensitivity is therefore limited, although many also function as Core Paths Views will be possible from Auchentiber Road from High Mathernock Farms to a point on the far side of the adjacent proposed development. Some views will also be possible from High Mathernock road to the east although these will be intermittent due to tree cover in the valley – particularly along the river. Views from Devol Road to the north will be possible for a short stretch before the topography crests the hill. This road is closed to through traffic so will not be heavily used.

View across the Gryfe from access road to The Haven. Site lies behind plantation woodland

View from Devol Moor from the north west. This lies across the ridgeline that separates Greenock and Port Glasgow from the Gryfe Valley

View south from Devol Road. This is a rough track and not open to vehicular through traffic. It does function as a Core Path however

8.16 The only feature of this nature is the High Mathernock AA Battery which lies close to the south east across the River Gryffe This Scheduled Monument exists as a series of brick structures which would have functioned as base foundations for artillery gun emplacements during the Second World War – presumably to defend against air raids targeting the shipyards of the Clyde and the estuary. These lie within a gated field but with a mown grass path to provide access. They are unlikely to draw high number of visitors but will be of reasonable interest to some. There will be clear views to the proposed site from the receptor although the historic setting will be the range of views of the sky above the valley which would be unaffected Some visual impact would be experienced, however.

8.17 There are some large nationally recognised designated sites in the surrounding landscape, but most lie out with the visual envelope The exception to this would be the Renfrewshire Heights SSSI/SPA site to the south west which would potentially have scattered views over high ground. This site is not particularly visual sensitive and the distance to the site would mean that impacts would be low. In the closer range, there are some locally designated sites called Local Nature Conservation Sites (LNCS) such as Devol Road Upland to the north and Jocks Craigs to Black Craig to the South east Views would be possible from pockets within these locations, but these are not particularly visually sensitive.

8.18 Overall, The visual impact of the proposed site is greatly influenced by both the context and the topography of the River Gryfe Valley. Its low lying position in the valley limits the potential visibility to within a relatively small visual envelope that is contained within the valley to north and south and between High Mathernock to the east and topography and woodland within 500m to the west. Some brief views from elevated and remote locations are possible from the wider area such as Devol Moor, Inverclyde Wind Farm and Renfrewshire Height, but these would be over distance and would be seen be few people.

8.19 The context of the valley where views are possible is also limiting to the degree of visual impact with few receptors in the valley, and areas of plantation woodland and tree cover which help to screen vies. Some views would be possible from Horsecraigs and Cauldside across the valley where gaps in the woodland allow views across and potentially from High Mathernock and Loganwood House but these sit in tree cover so this would be minimal.

Cultural Heritage

Natural Heritage

Overall Visual Impact Conclusions

View from Auchintiber Road to the west looking east across the adjacent site towards High Mathernock

View across the Gryfe from High Mathernock AA Battery site. Remnants of brick platforms for artillery can be seen.

View north west from Jocks Craig near Cauldside

8.20 Views from Auchentiber Road would be possible as the site lies immediately to the south, and from sections of High Mathernock and Devol Road will be possible, but these are all lower sensitivity local access routes with limited traffic. These also function as Core Paths which may elevate sensitivity levels, but the areas affected will remain well contained within the valley.

8.21 The proposed adjacent development will have an influence on the levels of potential visual impact as, if developed, it will have a screening influence from the west. Woodland tree cover proposed for the site would mean that views would be screened in this direction. It would however be seen in conjunction with this development and cumulative impact must be considered.

View west from High Mathernock at junction of Auchintiber and High Mathernock Roads

9. PHOTO MONTAGES

9.1 A series of photo montages have been prepared from eight key viewpoints. These have been based on similar locations to those requested by Inverclyde Council for the adjacent proposed BESS site, with some additional ones which have been determined to best illustrate potential visual impacts.

9.2 The images have been produced through the creation of a scales and grid referenced 3D model of the proposed facility in AutoCAD and placing this within a wireframe model of the landscape generated from Ordnance Survey topographical data using Key Terra Firma software. This is then used to generate images from virtual cameras within AutoCAD from the grid referenced locations within the model using the correct elevations and bearings which replicate the locations of photographs taken from the selected viewpoints in the landscape These locations, elevations and bearings have been confirmed through GPS technology whilst taking the photographs during on site assessment.

9.3 Images of first the wireframe model (using reference points to ensure that the images align with feature sin the landscape – and are then removed for clarity) are overlaid with the photographs using Corel Draw publishing software One this have been achieved a rendered image of the proposal model it produced and overlaid and placed within the scene taking into account screening elements which would naturally sit in front of the view of the model.

9.4 This 3D model shows battery units, infrastructure buildings, fencing, retaining wall, roads, and earthwork embankments – but it is inevitably limited in degree of photo realistic quality It must be bourn in mind that the intention is to show a representation of potential visibility and visual impacts rather than to create a photo realistic impression of the final scheme

9.5 In addition to the above a representation of the adjacent proposed development is included for context This is less detailed than the 3D model shown for the proposed BESS as the level of information is not available for this development – and it is not intended as the main focus of the assessment. The proposed structural landscaping has not initially been shown in the photo montages as they are intended to show potential visual impacts

9.6 The viewpoint locations (L4) and subsequent photo montages are shown on the following pages and described as follows:

9.7 Photo Montage 1 – This image is taken from Devol Moor to the North west of the site looking down into the Gryfe Valley from the high ground of the ridge which separates it from the Clyde Estuary to the north The landscape in this area already has several overhead power cable pylons due to the location of Devol Sub Station close by to the west, which acts a s a hub The landscape is relatively remote with footpaths closing the Moor but not settlements due to the exposed location. The Wireframe shows the proposed BESS and the adjacent proposal sitting low in the valley. These would be visible from this location but for the most part along the path, the varying topography would screen views. For areas which would be visible the distance and low lying location would help to mitigate impacts and screening boundary planting would further help to blend the facility into the landscape.

9.8 Photo Montage 2 –This photograph is taken from Devol Road to the north of the site from close to the nearest wind turbine. It is at the crest of the hill where the topography transitions to the above mentioned ridge Beyond this point the road continues as a pedestrian route and view to the valley below are hidden by the topography From this location clear views down to the site will be possible as the field stretches out down to the river This is shown in the wireframe along with the adjacent proposed BESS The site level will drop at the northern end as a retaining wall is proposed to achieve a level platform for the facility. This would then be raised at the southern end to account for the slope across the site down to the river. This location is unlikely to have a high volume of visitors and therefore sensitivity would be limited but views of the proposed development would be possible from the elevated location Some screening to the northern boundary would mitigate this – particularly when descending in height, closer to the site.

9.9 Photo Montage 3 – This shows the view looking west along the north side of the valley from High Mathernock Road, next to the farm of the same name. The wireframe shows the view of the proposed development and adjacent site beyond. These would be visible in the landscape from this relatively close location. Screening woodland planting along the eastern boundary of the site would help to screen the proposal The scene would change from open fields to woodland in that instance, but some visual impact would be inevitable from this location.

9.10 Photo Montage 4 – This image shows the view from the High Mathernock AA battery site looking north west across the River Gryfe. From this location there would be clear views across to the site as there is a gap in tree cover in this direction The site is of cultural heritage interest but would have limited visitor traffic The historic setting of the feature would be the range of views of the sky over the valley and estuary and the site

Photo Points

sits lower than the horizon in the valley Screen planting to the embankment and area south of the site would help to mitigate impacts but some visual impact would result.

9.11 Photo Montage 5 – This image shows the view along Auchentiber Road from the far side of the adjacent proposed site. Here some localised variations in the topography mean that the layout of the adjacent site does not appear in the exact location, but the position of the proposed site beyond is reasonably accurate The curve of the road means that the northern part of the site is hidden with the body of the site extending right across the field towards the river The site sits low in the landscape giving is a low profile and screen planting to the boundaries would help to screen it If the adjacent site is granted as proposed it would also include for screen planting which would further mitigate any impacts from this direction.

9.12 Photo Montage 6 – This image is taken from further west along Auchentiber Road close to the junction with the B788 Auchenfoil Road, looking eastwards along the valley towards the site From here the variations in the topography, combined with large areas of woodland in the valley mean that both the proposed site and the proposed adjacent site (which would be closer) are well hidden.

9.13 Photo Montage 7 – This image is taken from the access road into “The Haven” retreat at Horsecraigs which is to the east from this point This is a private and secluded location due to the nature of its work and clientele, so an image was taken from this location It shows the view across the valley to the proposed site which is well hidden by existing woodland in the valley. This hides some of the adjacent site and increased planting would the boundaries of both would help to blend the proposals into the landscape. Woodland to the south of this location help to screen views from the B788 road beyond and from the wider landscape out with the valley.

9.14 Photo Montage 8 – This photograph is taken from the rising landscape along High Mathernock Road towards Jock Craig to the south west and close to the house at Cauldside. From this elevated location views across to the development would be possible. The site sits low in the valley with a backdrop of the Devol Road Upland behind. Screen planting to the southern and eastern boundaries in particular would help to screen views of the development but some visibility would remain of the facility due to the elevation of the view.

9.15 Where a potential view of the development is shown a fourth image has been included which shown an impression of the potential effects of mitigative structural planting is shown at approximately 5 years after planting.

Photo Montage 1

Photo Montage 1

Proposed Site Adjacent Site

Photo Montage 1

Photo Montage 1

Photo Montage 2

Photo Montage 2

Photo Montage 2

Photo Montage 2

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Adjacent

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Adjacent Site

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Adjacent Site

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Proposed

Adjacent

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Approved Site

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Approved Site

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Adjacent Site

10. CUMULATIVE IMPACT

10.1 There are an increasing number of Battery Energy Storage System development across Scotland proposed or granted already. These often are associated with other energy related developments such as wind farms or solar arrays. These types of development can have a cumulative impact in areas where they are common although this is also dependant on the sensitivity of the landscape in which they sit and is linked to their potential for visual impact. This will affect the perception of proliferation within a particular area.

10.2 Drawing L5 shows the locations of similar BESS or related development within a 10km radius of the site which has been identified through a desktop based study and a review of current and past planning application from Inverclyde and adjacent Local Authorities within the radius. These are shown on the drawing and listed as

1. Land at Auchentiber Road - For The Construction and Operation of A 700 Mw Battery Energy Storage System With Associated Infrastructure, Substation, Security Fencing, CCTV, Security Lighting And Landscaping – Application 23/0001/EAA,

• Received: Mon 04 Dec 2023

• Validated: Mon 04 Dec 2023

• Status: Pending Consideration

2. Land At Former Dougliehill Water Treatment Works - Construction and operation of Dougliehill 49MW (AC) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), associated infrastructure and miscellaneous works – Application 24/0053/IC

• Received: Thu 14 Mar 2024

• Validated: Mon 04 Dec 2023

• Status: Pending Consideration

3. Flatterton Farm - Multiple containerised battery storage units with associated infrastructure, access, control building, switch room, inverter containers, lighting and associated works – Application 23/0205/IC

• Received: Wed 06 Sep 2023

• Decision: Wed 05 Jun 2024

• Status: Granted Subject To Conditions

Conclusions

10.3 There are some similar development types proposed within the wider landscape, but these are small and reasonably well spaced. The only potential for cumulative impact at this time is therefore with the adjacent proposed site at Auchintiber Road. This potential is closely related to the potential for visual impact due to their close proximity and is why they have often been considered together through the visual impacts assessment and in the photo montages. Considered together the area of development would be larger than if either were individually constructed. This would lead to a localised increase in cumulative and visual impacts but as visibility is very limited to the area of the Gryfe Valley described in the visual impact assessment, cumulative impacts would likewise be limited.

Other BESS Development Proposed Development

L5 CUMULATIVE DEVELOPMENT

11. CONCLUSIONS

Location and Context Conclusions

11.1 There are no significant settlements or designation which apply to the landscape of the site and no specific contextual features within the landscape which would constrain development.

Planning Policy Conclusions

11.2 Ther site is part of the designated Green Belt in the Local Development Plan but there is provision for allowing development where there is a locational need. The nature of this infrastructure development is such that it cannot be located within a settlement so provided impact are deemed acceptable, there should be scope to consider the proposals under this policy. There would be no significant impact which results from the proposals under other landscape related planning policy.

Landscape Character Conclusions

11.3 The description within the landscape character type provides a great deal of information on the area around the River Gryfe although not specifically the site area. It also does not consider the type of development proposed which is a relatively new kind of facility. It can be considered that the location and nature of the BESS will be out of keeping with the existing landscape character – as it would be with any rural location, but the existing infrastructure in the surrounding landscape creates a precedent. The degree to which the proposed development influences the character of the wider landscape will also be a consideration which will form part of the visual impacts assessment.

Site analysis Conclusions

11.4 Beyond the loss of agricultural land there are no significant constraints to the development of the site.

Visual Impact Conclusions

11.5 The visual impact of the proposed site is greatly influenced by both the context and the topography of the River Gryfe Valley. Its low lying position in the valley limits the potential visibility to within a relatively small visual envelope that is contained within the valley to north and south and between High Mathernock to the east and topography and woodland within 500m to the west. Some brief views from elevated and remote locations are possible from the wider area such as Devol Moor, Inverclyde Wind Farm and Renfrewshire Height, but these would be over distance and would be seen be few people.

11.6 The context of the valley where views are possible is also limiting to the degree of visual impact with few receptors in the valley, and areas of plantation woodland and tree cover

which help to screen vies. Some views would be possible from Horsecraigs and Cauldside across the valley where gaps in the woodland allow views across and potentially from High Mathernock and Loganwood House but these sit in tree cover so this would be minimal.

11.7 Views from Auchentiber Road would be possible as the site lies immediately to the south, and from sections of High Mathernock and Devol Road will be possible, but these are all lower sensitivity local access routes with limited traffic. These also function as Core Paths which may elevate sensitivity levels, but the areas affected will remain well contained within the valley.

11.8 The proposed adjacent development will have an influence on the levels of potential visual impact as, if developed, it will have a screening influence from the west. Woodland tree cover proposed for the site would mean that views would be screened in this direction. It would however be seen in conjunction with this development and cumulative impact must be considered.

Cumulative Impact Conclusions

11.9 There are some similar development types proposed within the wider landscape, but these are small and reasonably well spaced. The only potential for cumulative impact at this time is therefore with the adjacent proposed site at Auchintiber Road. This potential is closely related to the potential for visual impact due to their close proximity and is why they have often been considered together through the visual impacts assessment and in the photo montages. Considered together the area of development would be larger than if either were individually constructed. This would lead to a localised increase in cumulative and visual impacts but as visibility is very limited to the area of the Gryfe Valley described in the visual impact assessment, cumulative impacts would likewise be limited.

Overall Conclusions

11.10 The proposed development would represent a change in landscape character to the current agricultural land use at the moment but in a landscape which has much in the way of power infrastructure already. Visual impacts from this proposal would be limited by the topography of the valley and therefore contained within a small area. This would be further mitigated through screening structural boundary planting. This would also bring potential benefits for biodiversity from the currently ecologically limited agricultural usage. Cumulative impacts would arise from association with the adjacent proposed BESS development but the close proximity and limited visibility in the wider landscape would ensure that this cumulative effect would not affect the wider area.

12. Recommendations

Boundary Planting

12.1 Introduction of screen planting to the eastern boundary to mitigate visual impacts. This should be a mix of deciduous and evergreen native species and planted at a range of sizes in a matrix formation to provide early impacts and structure for future development. The existing boundary hedge to the field should be retained.

12.2 Planting to the northern boundary to mitigate impacts from Auchintiber Road and Devol Road. This should be a combination of mixed native hedge planting along the road with hedgerow / woodland planting between the road and retaining wall. Some larger heavy standard native trees should line the road to provide early cover.

12.3 Planting to the western boundary would be dependant on the granting of planning consent to the adjacent BESS development. If this is to come forward an approach which provides connectivity with the adjacent landscape design is recommended. If the development was to stand alone then visually mitigative woodland planting similar to the eastern boundary should be implemented. In either case native species, appropriate to the area, should be specified with a view to maximising biodiversity.

12.4 The southern area of the site will largely remain unused and there is an opportunity for enhanced biodiversity. The embankment of the proposed platform could be planted with native hedgerow species and riparian species planted to the SuDs basin and river edge. This could take the form of wet meadow grassland. Some tree planting would help to enhance the diversity further.

Biodiversity Enhancement

12.5 There is opportunity to further biodiversity within the development through the inclusion of meadow grass or species rich grassland through the development where operationally appropriate.

12.6 Bird and bat boxes, hedgehog homes and bug hotels can also provide further habitat opportunities within the landscape.

12.7 Minimising grass cutting will help to promote grassland and insects within, and an overall maintenance and management plan should be prepared to ensure longevity of planting and enhancement of biodiversity going forward.

12.8 An Outline biodiversity Enhancement Plan has been prepared for the proposed development and the recommendations within this should be incorporated into the landscape strategy for the scheme.

Assessment of visual receptors

Appendix One -Assessment of visual receptors

FARMS, DWELLINGS AND SMALL HAMLETS

Small farmsteads or rural households will be sensitive to changes in their permanent views although these may often be mitigated by the presence of agricultural outbuildings and a general anticipation of industrial or agricultural activity across the landscape. At this range, there are many farms and dwellings within the landscape although these are generally restricted to the low-lying valley floors. These small holdings generally tend to be sheltered and often lie in tree covered surroundings. The type of development and fact that the extension of an agreed principle is being assessed means that 2km is considered an adequate distance to consider impacts upon this type of receptor. Where these features also have a cultural heritage designation these have been assessed in a later section.

Threeplands / Kincraig / Greendykes

0.01km As a recreational receptor this property will have a high to medium sensitivity to visual impact.

Ranfurly Castle Golf Course and Clubhouse

0.21km As a recreational receptor this property will have a medium to low sensitivity to visual impact.

These large dwellings lie adjacent to the south of the site within the Conservation Area. These sit within large grounds and have mature tree cover across the garden spaces. There are some views into the site from the site itself and these would be reciprocated for dwellings to the southern edge. The site slopes away to the north, away from these dwellings however, which will mitigate the impacts across the site and magnitude of change would be medium.

The golf course lies on the higher ground to the south on a plateau above the site. This is separated from the site by the houses and tree cover along Golf Course Road. The club house building lies to the east of the golf course on lower ground and would have no views of the house. There is a possibility of some views to the roofs of houses on the lower lying site from parts of the golf course but magnitude to change would be low

Threeply 0.33km As an agricultural receptor this property will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

This farmstead and dwelling lie on the lower ground to the north west along Torr Road. The presence of the houses on the south side of the road combined with the difference in elevation will help to screen views to the development site but some views of rooftops in the context of existing dwellings will be visible. Magnitude of change will be medium to low.

Low Screen planting along the southern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

Medium to Low Screen planting along the northern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

Old Course Ranfurly Golf Course and Clubhouse

0.41km As a recreational receptor this property will have a medium to low sensitivity to visual impact.

This golf course lies to the southeast within the settlement but on elevated ground surrounded by tree cover and dwellings within the settlement. The ground is undulating and views to and from the course are limited towards the north, east and west so views towards the site are very unlikely other than a brief glimpse of rooftops from the Motte at the centre of the course. Magnitude of change would be negligible

Negligible None required

Medium Screen planting along the southern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

Medium to Low

Fodston 0.65km As an agricultural receptor this property will have a medium sensitivity to visual impact.

This farm lies in the open ground to the north west of site lying low in the valley. There will be views across the valley to the site although the existing development to the front and rear of it will result in new buildings being seen as an extension of the existing settlement. Magnitude of change will be medium

Castle 0.65km As a residential receptor this property will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

This cluster of dwellings lie across the River Gryfe Valley amid tree cover but on a elevated location above the A761 Kilmacolm Road. There will be views across the valley to the site and of the development albeit in the context of the existing settlement to below and above it on the slope. Magnitude of change will be medium.

TOWNS AND VILLAGES

Medium Retention of some existing trees and new planting through the development would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

Medium Retention of some existing trees and new planting through the development would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

These receptor types refer to larger rural settlements, villages and towns. These groups of receptors are made up of a range of individual receptors of significant levels of sensitivity including many listed buildings. Sensitivity will therefore be high. This is generally mitigated by the increase in density of screening elements within these types of receptors such as tree cover and built structures. Often they are also associated with water courses and historically are located in sheltered niches in the landscape helping to further limit views in some directions. Where these features also have a cultural heritage designation these have been assessed in a later section.

0.01km As a residential settlement this receptor is likely to have a high sensitivity to visual impact although there will be degrees of variation within the overall area.

The site lies at the western side of Bridge of Weir which falls across the varied topography having expanded over time from the core within the River Gryfe Valley. This expansion has extended towards the south and north and along the valley towards the west where the site lies. For the majority of the settlement on the east of the site there will no views of as the orientation of the topography is such that views are northwards across the valley of insular within the varied landscape aver which the settlement has spread. Some areas to the north of the town within the valley and to the opposite side will have views looking south west towards the site such as at StrathGryfe Crescent between the NCN 75 and A761 but these will be a relatively very small proportion of the Settlement. Other areas such as the houses on Carruth Road, Thriplee Road and Lommond Crescent may also have views but these will be restricted to houses directly adjacent which share a boundary with the site. Overall magnitude of change upon Bridge of Weir would be low

Village 1.85km As a residential settlement this receptor is likely to have a high sensitivity to visual impact although there will be degrees of variation within the overall area.

The ZTV indicates that some visibility may be possible from Quarriers Village however the low lying position of the village in the landscape and the tree cover in the valley and around the village will mean that views are not likely. Magnitude of change would be negligible

of some existing trees and new planting through the development would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

Gryfe

Bridge Of Weir

Low Retention

Low

Quarriers

Houston

2.2km As a residential settlement this receptor is likely to have a high sensitivity to visual impact although there will be degrees of variation within the overall area.

Kilmacolm 3.65km As a residential settlement this receptor is likely to have a high sensitivity to visual impact although there will be degrees of variation within the overall area.

Linwood 4.4km As a residential settlement this receptor is likely to have a high sensitivity to visual impact although there will be degrees of variation within the overall area.

The ZTV indicates some views from Houston and there is likely to be a views across the valley from the road at the edge of the settlement but views from within the settlement are unlikely. Magnitude of change would be negligible

The ZTV indicates some potential visibility from a small area of Kilmacolm however the screening elements in the landscape will mean that this is not possible. Magnitude of change would be none

The ZTV indicates some potential visibility from a small area of Linwood however the screening elements in the landscape will mean that this is not possible. Magnitude of change would be none

TRANSPORT ROUTES

Receptors travelling along main transport routes will experience a constantly changing view of the surrounding countryside. Some views will be brief and others may change more gradually over distance but all will generally be briefly experienced and the degree of impact will alter quickly as progress is made on the route. Orientation relative to direction of travel can also be a factor as views which fall directly in the line of sight will be more noticeable than those lying perpendicular to the direction of travel.

Road

Golf Course Road

0.05km The local road runs from Bridge of Weir along the south of the River Gryfe Valley towards Quarriers Village. It will have a medium to low sensitivity to visual impacts.

This road rans along the low ground at the foot of the slope upon which the site sits. There are a number of existing dwellings which lie between the site and road and the road turns as it passes over the topography to the west. There will be no views to the east of the site due to the existing dwellings and views to the west of Threeply will be mostly screened by the topography and tree cover. There will be a section of the road immediately to the north where some views are likely however. Magnitude of change will be medium

to low Screen planting along the northern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

0.09km This narrow single track road provides access to the houses which lie immediately north of the Ranfurly Golf Course and comes to a dead end at Threeplands, It will therefore have a low sensitivity to visual impacts

This road is set back from the site and separated by the houses which exist along its northern boundary. A gap exists where the demolished listed building once stood but there is still much in the way of tree cover at present. Some views to the development are likely at this gap however. Magnitude of change would be medium to low.

Screen planting along the southern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

Torr

Medium

NCN

75 0.29km This well used section of the National Cycle Routes network follows the line of a disused railway to the south of the site running east to west through the study area. It will have a medium sensitivity to visual impact.

A761 0.36km This busy road runs through Bridge of Weirs centre linking Renfrewshire to Inverclyde via Linwood and Kilmacolm. It will have a medium sensitivity to visual impacts.

This route follows the line of a disused railway through the River Gryfe Valley close to the river. It tends to follow a low lying channel for much of the route but there will be locations where views are possible in the direction of the site and the development would be visible in places between Bridge of Weir and Quarriers Village. Magnitude of change would be medium

This road runs to the northern side of the River Gryfe Valley. There will be locations between Bridge of weir and Craigends to the west where views of the site are possible. From the west views over distance will be of the development against the backdrop and in the context of Bridge of Weir which will have a mitigating effect. This will be come more distinct with travel closer to Bridge of Weir but this contextual setting will remain a factor and magnitude of change would be medium.

0.42km This local road links Bridge of Weir with Houston to the north east. It will have a medium to low sensitivity to visual impacts.

B786 2.17km This local road links Kilmacolm with Lochwinnoch on the western edge of the study area. It will have a medium to low sensitivity to visual impacts.

B789 2.55km This local road runs north from Houston. It will have a medium to low sensitivity to visual impacts.

B788

Medium Screen planting along the northern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

Screen planting along the northern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

This road begins with the settlement but climbs up the valley to the northeast. Views from the road across the valley to the site will be possible but again this will be seen in the context of Bridge of Weir and as an expansion to the west. Magnitude of change will be medium.

This road is indicated to have potential views by the ZTV but the majority of the route will which lies within the visual envelope will fall within Houston where screening elements will prevent views. Magnitude of change will be negligible

The ZTV indicates potential visibility from the north of this stretch of road close to Kilmacolm but in reality the distance and screening elements will means that any views are curtailed. Magnitude of change will be none

Medium to Low Screen planting along the northern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

3.25km This local road runs west from the A761 to the south of Kilmacolm. It will have a medium to low sensitivity to visual impacts.

The ZTV indicates potential visibility from this road close to Kilmacolm but in reality the distance and screening elements will means that any views are screened. Magnitude of change will be none

CULTURAL HERITAGE

Cultural heritage receptors can be historical elements within the landscape such as Scheduled Monuments, Listed Buildings or Designed Gardens and Landscapes or can simply be significant local features which contribute to the character of the study area. Levels of sensitivity will vary greatly depending on the nature of the receptor and may not be related to their classification but rather their function, attraction to visitors and the importance of “setting” to their character. Where these features also have a cultural heritage designation these have been assessed in a later section. Listed Buildings (within 2km)

Medium to Low

Medium

B790

Medium to Low

Bridge Of Weir Viaduct 0.28km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

1-6 Gryfe Place Main Street Bridge of Weir

Bridge Of Weir, Main Street, 1 Morrison Place

Millwheel" Main Street Bridge of Weir"

Gryfe Inn, Main Street, Bridge of Weir

Bridge Of Weir Freeland Church

Gryfe Castle (Now Children's Home), Kilmacolm Road, Bridge of Weir.

Lintwhite School Lintwhite Crescent

0.38km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

0.41km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

0.42km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

0.4km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

0.55km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

0.6km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none.

This cluster of dwellings lie across the River Gryfe Valley amid tree cover but on a elevated location above the A761 Kilmacolm Road. There will be views across the valley to the site and of the development albeit in the context of the existing settlement to below and above it on the slope. Magnitude of change will be medium. Medium Retention of some existing trees and new planting through the development would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

0.75km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

Hope Lodge, (Originally Lodge to Bridge of Weir Hospital)

1.16km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

This building lies on Torr Road to the west. The ZTV indicates potential visibility but in reality the tree cover over topography means that any views are hidden. Magnitude of change would be none

1.25km This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

This large country house sits in mature tree cover to the west. The ZTV indicates potential visibility but in reality the tree cover over topography means that any views are hidden. Magnitude of change would be none

Medium to Low

Craigbet, By Torr Road, Bridge of Weir

Easterhill" Bankend Road

1.57km

Northview Road Bridge of Weir"

Bridge Of Weir Hospital Main Block Including Chapel

1.6km

This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

This listed structure has been classified to preserve its historic character and setting. It will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

This group of receptors lies in the land to the west close to Quarriers Village. It is set amongst mature tree cover and this and the topography will screen views of the site across the landscape. Magnitude of change will be none

0.5km These features are designated due to there cultural heritage value but may have varying levels of sensitivity to visual impact due to their original function, historic setting and current physical presence in the landscape. This feature is of great conservation value but of limited sensitivity to visual impact, which would be of a medium level.

0.65km These features are designated due to there cultural heritage value but may have varying levels of sensitivity to visual impact due to their original function, historic setting and current physical presence in the landscape. This feature is of great conservation value but of limited sensitivity to visual impact, which would be of a medium level

This ruined castle lies at the edge of Ranfurly Castle Golf Couse amid a group of mature trees. There will be no views of the site due to these trees and the buildings in the landscape between the site and receptor. Magnitude of change will be none.

None Required

This Motte exists as an area of mounded earth at the centre of the Golf Course and forms part of it. It is more elevated than the Castle although further from the site. There is a possibility some views of rooftop of the proposed development would be visible but in the context of the settlement at large magnitude of change would be negligible

Ranfurly Castle, Bridge of Weir

Castle Hill, Motte, Bridge of Weir

Receptor Distance from site

0.75km

Conservation Areas within 5km

Ranfurly 0.01km These areas have been identified as being of particular historic interest and cultural heritage valueoften with high concentrations of listed buildings within them. They will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

The Ranfurly Conservation Area covers a large area of Bridge of Weir on the east of the site but extending along the southern boundary to take in the listed buildings from Threeplands to Dundarroch House along Golf Course Road. A part of the site which was included in the grounds of Hermiston a B-Listed building, which has now been demolished. This is confirmed in the mapping of the area but not in the citations as the listing remains in place as does the CA boundary. Part of the designation will be the setting of the wider environment however so impacts upon the CA will be related to visibility to the wider landscape and to properties within it. Any impacts which may occur would only be upon dwellings along golf course road and only those adjacent at Kincraigs, Greendykes and potentially The Homestead - with Threeplands sufficiently removed as to not be affected. At present the three properties sit adjacent to the vacant site with unmanaged grounds and tree cover. The proposals would only affect the northern part of the Hermiston plot which would minimise impacts to the Homestead and Kincraig. Some impacts may be experienced from Greendykes as the boundary will fall closer to proposed development but the retention of existing trees where possible and appropriate, combined with appropriate design and new planting, should help to minimise impacts. Overall magnitude of change across the majority of the CA will be none and medium to low to the adjacent properties.

Quarriers Village 1.75km These areas have been identified as being of particular historic interest and cultural heritage valueoften with high concentrations of listed buildings within them. They will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

Houston 2.5km These areas have been identified as being of particular historic interest and cultural heritage valueoften with high concentrations of listed buildings within them. They will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement and distance to the site means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

Low Screen planting along the southern boundary and through the site would help to integrate the development into the settlement pattern.

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement and distance to the site means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

Kilmacolm 3.55km

These areas have been identified as being of particular historic interest and cultural heritage valueoften with high concentrations of listed buildings within them. They will have a high sensitivity to visual impact.

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement and distance to the site means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

2.9km

These historic sites has been designated due to their great value on a number of criteria by HES. This can relate to historic value, architecture, artist value, landscape value amongst others. They tend to have a high sensitivity to visual impacts or impacts upon their landscape setting.

The ZTV indicated potential visibility from this receptor but the location within the settlement and distance to the site means that any views towards the site would be screened. Magnitude of change would be none

Recreational Receptors

NATURAL HERITAGE

Nature conservation sites are usually designated for their ecological or geological features or for their aesthetic value. Generally, the former types of sites have a low sensitivity to visual impact but often have the potential to draw visitors to them and so will be considered. The latter types of sites such as National Scenic Areas or Areas of Great Landscape Value have a high sensitivity to visual impact as they have been designated in order to preserve their visual qualities.

3.35km

These types of receptors are designated due to their high conservation value rather than their aesthetic qualities although there can often be a cross over in these elements. For the most part this means that they will have a low sensitivity to visual impacts but if they are likely to draw visitors to the designation this can rise to a higher sensitivity. In this case the sensitivity will be low however.

The ZTV indicates potential visibility at the edge of this desiganation but in reality the distance to the site and screening elements would mean that the magnitude of change would be none.

Duchal House

Shovelboard (SSSI)

Gardens and Designed Landscapes within 5km

Moss (SSSI) 4.1km These types of receptors are designated due to their high conservation value rather than their aesthetic qualities although there can often be a cross over in these elements. For the most part this means that they will have a low sensitivity to visual impacts but if they are likely to draw visitors to the designation this can rise to a higher sensitivity. In this case the sensitivity will be low however.

The ZTV indicates potential visibility at the edge of this desiganation but in reality the distance to the site and screening elements would mean that the magnitude of change would be none

Glen

Documents used in the preparation of this report

1. “Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment,” Third Edition, 2013, published by the Landscape Institute

2. Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management.

3. Inverclyde Local Development Plan 2019

4. Inverclyde Core Paths Plan – 2019

5. National Planning Framework 4 (February 2023)

6. Nature Scots online database of Landscape Character Types

7. NatureScot Review 116 – Glasgow and Clyde Valley landscape character assessment”, 1999, Land Use Consultants in association with Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division

8. www.rcahms.gov.uk/pastmap.html

9. Scotland’s Environment Online database

10. NatureScot Landscape Character Online Database

Appendix Three

Background experience

1. The landscape architectural practice of David Wilson Associates was established in 1992 and now works from a busy design studio in Hamilton Town Centre It re-established as DWA Landscape Architects Limited, in early 2013, with David Wilson, and his two long standing associates, Andrew McLatchie and Julie Spence, becoming joint Directors In September 2017 David Wilson retired from the Practice, but DWA continues under the directorship of Andy and Julie. The staff consists of six design team members and two administrators.

2. The practice uses computer-based design and communications systems to provide a professional landscape design and landscape planning service to Public Agencies, Commercial Clients and Private Individuals throughout Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the North of England.

3. The workload includes industrial, residential layout designs, road corridor and townscape improvement projects, new schools, community parks, play areas, private garden design and ecological and woodland habitat initiatives.

4. In addition, the practice has provided a specialist service in the preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Studies and, over the past twenty years, has undertaken them for many housing, wind turbine and other commercial developments

5. Clients include Barratt, Kirkwood, Bancon, Bellway, Avant, Dawn, Miller, Persimmon, Scotia and Stewart Milne Homes, Hubco North Scotland, Dundas Estates and Local Authorities throughout Scotland.