11 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

11.1 Introduction

This Section presents the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) for the proposed offshore wind farm.

In accordance with the EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2002, the main components of the LVIA are as follows:

· Description of the Project;

· Review of the planning and development control framework;

· Broad Brush tree survey results;

· Baseline study of landscape character, landscape resources and also visual resources such as key views and the visual character and amenity of the Study Area;

· Landscape impact assessment during construction and operation of the Project;

· Visual impact assessment during construction and operation of the Project;

· Recommendations for landscape and visual mitigation measures for both the construction and operation phases; and

· Assessment of the residual impacts and conclusion on the acceptability of the Project.

11.2 Project Description

The proposed wind farm will comprise the development, installation and operation of an offshore wind farm in Hong Kong waters. The wind farm site would comprise a single array of turbines and associated infrastructure, including submarine electricity cables, monitoring mast and offshore sub-station. During detailed design, the offshore substation may be required to be moved onshore to the Lamma Power Station.

The detailed description is provided in Section 5 and the proposed location of the Project is shown in Figure 11.1.

For the purposes of this assessment, it is assumed that the turbines will be 125m in height. It is possible that larger turbines at a height of 136m may be adopted during the detailed design stage. The viewshed analysis is based on a maximum height of 136m. While the photomontages have been prepared based on the height of 125m as this would represent the case of having the highest numbers of wind turbine installed within the site boundary and hence represent the worst scenario from visual impact point of view. Nevertheless, it should also be noted that the option of height 125m is the most likely turbine option to be selected.

11.3 Legislation Requirements and Evaluation Criteria

The LVIA was undertaken in accordance with:

· Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) and its subsidiary legislation the Forestry Regulations;

· Town Planning Ordinance (Cap 131);

· Animals And Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance (Cap 187);

· Country Parks Ordinance (Cap 208);

· Marine Parks Ordinance (Cap 476) and associated subsidiary legislation;

· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap.499, S.16) and the Technical Memorandum on EIA Process (EIAO TM), particularly Annexes 10, 11, 18, 20 and 21;

· EIAO Guidance Note 8/2002;

· Tseung Kwan O Outline Zoning Plan No.S/TKO/15 (2 November 2004);

· Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines;

· Work Branch Technical Circular (WBTC) No. 25/93 - Control of Visual Impact of Slopes;

· SILTech Publication (1991) – Tree Planting and Maintenance in Hong Kong (Standing Interdepartmental Landscape Technical Group) [11-23];

· WBTC No. 17/2000 – Improvement to the Appearance of slopes in connection with WBTC 25/93;

· WBTC No. 7/2002 – Tree Planting in Public Works;

· ETWB TC (Works) No. 34/2003 – Community Involvement in Greening Works;

· ETWB TC (Works) No. 2/2004 : Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features;

· ETWB TC (Works) No. 29/2004 : Registration of Old and Valuable Trees, and Guidelines for their Preservation;

· ETWB TC (Works) No. 11/2004 – Cyber Manual for Greening;

· ETWB TC (Works) No. 3/2006 - Tree Preservation;

· Land Administration Office Instruction (LAOI) Section D-12 – Tree Preservation;

· Geotechnical Engineering Office (GEO) publication (1999) – Use of Vegetation as Surface Protection on Slopes;

· GEO 1/2000 – Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment and Bio-engineering of Man-made Slopes and Retaining Walls;

· Urban Council Publication (1998) - Champion Trees in Urban Hong Kong (Chinese Language Edition);

· Urban Services Department ‘Plant Selection Matrix’ (1992);

· Housing Department ‘Basic Plant List’ (1988);

· PlanD, ‘The Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong’ 2005;

· AFCD ‘Check List of Hong Kong Plants 2001’ (2002); and

· AFCD 'Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong' (2004).

The study is also in accordance with the requirements of Study Brief No. ESB – 151/2006. The landscape assessment considers the potential impacts of the Project on the existing landscape and particularly on the landscape resources within 500m of the Project Site.

The visual assessment analyses the potential visual impacts of the proposed wind farm on the existing views and the visual amenity, particularly from the Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSR) within the view shed (sometimes referred to as the Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI)). This EIA will use the term “view shed”. In order to illustrate the visual impacts of the development, photomontages have been prepared from selected view points, which compare the existing conditions with the view after commissioning of the proposed wind farm. The residual impacts are evaluated qualitatively, in accordance with the requirements of Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM.

11.4 Planning

As the wind farm site is located in a marine environment, it is not covered by any Outline Zoning Plans (OZP) or related overlays relevant to the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.

However, the onshore lay down area and the cable landing sites are to be located at the Lamma Power Station extension, which is covered by the approved Lamma Island Outline Zoning Plan S/I-LI/9. The Power Station is zoned as ‘OU – Other Specified Uses’ annotated “Power Station”. The Planning Intention at this site is stated as:

‘This zone is intended to designate land for a power station providing electricity supply to Hong Kong Island and Lamma Island.’

As the Project components at this site will be for the supply of electricity for Hong Kong Island and Lamma Island, there are no apparent conflicts associated with the OZP.

11.5 Tree Survey

A broad brush tree survey of the cable landing and laydown areas was undertaken.

Methodology

The tree survey was undertaken at the Lamma Power Station Extension areas that could be affected by the works in accordance with Section 3.4.5.4 of EIA Study Brief No. ESB-138/2006, the guideline from Works Branch Technical Circular No. 3/2006, No. 55/2002, No. 2/2004, LAO Practice Note No. 6/2003 and 8/2002.

The only trees that may be affected by the onshore cable works are a small number of juvenile Ficus elastica growing in planters above the sea wall. See Figure 11.2 below. These specimens are juvenile and should be readily transplanted or compensated before the works commence.

Figure 11.2 Existing Ficus elastica at the cable landing point

The trench for the cable is approximately 1m wide and will be excavated within the road corridor. No further trees or vegetation will be affected.

Should a Tree Felling Application (TFA) be required, the exact numbers of trees to be felled or transplanted will be submitted in a separate TFA during the Detailed Design stage.

11.6 Landscape Impact Assessment

11.6.1 Methodology

In accordance with Annex 18 of the EIAO-TM, the landscape impact assessment has covered the following:

· Description of the baseline landscape within 500m of the Project Site and the works area of the enabling works along the access routes;

· Description of the Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) and Landscape Resources (LRs) including describing edges as different LRs;

· Mapping the distribution of the LCAs and LRs;

· Proposed a qualitative and quantitative assessment of significant thresholds which reflect the magnitude of change and sensitivity to change of a particular LCAs and LRs;

· Analysed the landscape impacts during construction, impact after development, and off-site landscape impacts. This section analyses the extent to which these landscape units and edges are changed, using both quantitative and qualitative assessments;

· Examined landscape mitigation measures that will contribute to reducing any landscape impacts or will enhance the landscape associated with the land based impacted areas of the wind farm. This may include planting, new landscaped areas and re-vegetation. The residual landscape impacts are also analysed, and;

· Provides conclusions on the impacts of the Project.

11.6.2 Baseline Landscape Conditions

As specified by the EIA Study Brief, the Landscape Impact Assessment covers the area within 500m of the proposed works (see Figure 11.3). The landscape baseline study examines the potential impacts on the Project Site and surrounding areas in terms of both the LCAs and the LRs.

The LCAs and LRs of the Study Area have been categorised according to the presence of common elements. These include factors such as:

· Topography;

· Vegetation type (both species and age);

· Built forms;

· Evidence on human modifications;

· Land use (past and present); and

· Edges.

11.6.3 General Landscape Description

The landscape where the Project is to be located comprises two contrasting sites. Site A is the seascape area where the wind turbines and associated infrastructure will be located. The seascape comprises two areas; the first being offshore where the wind turbines are to be located, the second is adjacent to the existing Lamma Power Station Extension. Both areas are typical of Hong Kong water ways.

Site B is the Lamma Power Station Extension where the submarine cable will land and connect to the grid and the onshore laydown area where the turbines will be partially assembled. This site is characterised by large heavy industrial infrastructure, roads and some soft landscape elements.

All of these landscape elements are discussed in more detail in this report.

11.6.4 Landscape Sensitivity

An understanding of the sensitivity to change of the LCAs and LRs is important when analysing the overall landscape impact of the Project.

Factors affecting the sensitivity of change for evaluation of landscape are:

· Quality of LCAs and LRs;

· Importance and rarity of special landscape elements;

· Ability of the landscape to accommodate change;

· Significance of the change in the local and regional context; and

· Maturity of the landscape.

The degree of sensitivity of the LCAs and LRs is classified as follows:

i) High – eg important components or landscape of particularly distinctive character susceptible to small changes;

ii) Medium – eg a landscape of moderately valued characteristics reasonably tolerant to change, and;

iii) Low – eg a relatively unimportant landscape which is able to accommodate extensive change.

The following section describes each of the LCAs and LRs within the Study Area (ie 500m from the Project boundary).

11.6.5 Landscape Character Areas

The landscape character of the overall Project Site is typical of the marine fringe environments south of Hong Kong Island, which is generally characterised by the presence of water, undulating islands with village developments and transient marine traffic.

As described in Section 11.6.3, there are two sites (A and B) that are different in terms of Landscape Character (refer Figure 11.3). The Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong ([1]) identifies Site A as being within ’Offshore Waters Landscape’ Landscape Character Type (LCT) (refer to Figure 11.3).

Site B is within the existing Lamma Power Station Extension and where the onshore laydown area and the submarine cable landing site will be located. The Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong identifies three LCT’s within this area, ‘Industrial Urban Landscape’ and ‘Coastal Uplands and Hillsides Landscape’ and ‘Inshore Waters Landscape’.

The above Landscape Character Types identified have been adopted as the Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) for the study.

LCAs within Site A

LCA1 – Offshore Waters Landscape

The Appendix Descriptions on Landscape Character Types on The Planning Department of Hong Kong’s website describes Offshore Waters Landscape as:

These are coastal landscapes consisting almost exclusively of extensive areas of offshore water. They are defined by land (either mainland Hong Kong or its islands) on one side and by open sea on the other side and the result is a distinct sense of space and openness. Apart from the sea itself, the only other features in these offshore waters are occasional vessels, such as fishing vessels, ferries or cargo ships. Always possessing a sense of exposure and remoteness, they are very simple landscapes, which attain much of their character from the prevailing quality of light and weather conditions. Examples of this type of landscape are the offshore waters off eastern Hong Kong and those off southern Hong Kong.

As shown in Figure 11.4, LCA1 is generally of a high quality, and is typical of this LCT in Hong Kong. It has a high importance as this LCA forms part of the unique identity of Hong Kong. However, due to its abundance, it is of low rarity, with a medium ability to accommodate change. This LCA therefore has a medium sensitivity.

Figure 11.4 Offshore Water Landscape

LCAs within Site Area B

LCA2 – Inshore Waters Landscape

The Appendix Descriptions on Landscape Character Types on The Planning Department of Hong Kong’s website describes Inshore Waters Landscape as:

These are areas of coastal water lying close to the shore and enclosed to a certain degree by landmasses or islands, which create a limited sense of enclosure or containment. Whilst these landscapes are characterized predominantly by the horizontality and muted hues of their coastal waters, they may also include small, isolated islands or outlying rocks and marine activities of all kinds, including fish farms, anchorages, commercial shipping lanes, ferry traffic and waterborne recreational activity. The result is a largely open, tranquil and natural landscape which is punctuated by the colours and noises of human features and activities. Examples of this type of landscape are outer Victoria Harbour and Port Shelter in Sai Kung.

Figure 11.5 shows that this LCA, is generally of lower quality than the examples provided in the above description, primarily due to the presence of the Existing Power Station, which dominates the landscape character of the area. This LCA is also relatively abundant in the area and therefore its rarity is low. This LCA is also considered to have a medium sensitivity.

Figure 11.5 Inshore Waters Landscape

LCA3 – Industrial Urban Landscape

The Appendix Descriptions on Landscape Character Types on The Planning Department of Hong Kong’s website describes Industrial Urban Landscape as:

Generally found on low-lying areas of reclaimed land and often along the coasts of urban areas, these are landscapes defined by their almost exclusively industrial land uses. They typically include areas of industrial buildings, often in very dense arrangements. Any occasional open areas are used for vehicle parking or open storage. Streets are mainly residual spaces, with little or no vegetation. On the peripheries, there may be areas of vacant land. These landscapes also include industrial estates: extensive areas of comprehensively developed low-rise buildings with wider roads, which are often tree lined, usually found at the edges of new towns, such as Yuen Long or Tai Po. Their unifying characteristics are their large utilitarian buildings, their limited coherence of spaces, features and materials, and absence of significant vegetation cover. Examples of this type of landscape include the container handling areas at Kwai Chung Container Terminal as well as the area of factory buildings at Wong Chuk Hang in Aberdeen.

This LCA is comprised of the existing Power Station, which is located on reclaimed land. Features here include large cranes, flue stacks and other utilitarian buildings. Figure 11.6 demonstrates that this LCA is of low quality, importance and rarity with a high ability to accommodate change. This LCA therefore has a low sensitivity.

Figure 11.6 Industrial Urban Landscapes

LCA4 - Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape

The Appendix Descriptions on Landscape Character Types on The Planning Department of Hong Kong’s website describes Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape as:

These are large-scale upland and hillside landscapes lying between around 40 and 300mPD which abut (wholly or in part) the sea. Consisting of hillsides, knolls, ridges and spurs, they are generally covered in low scrub or grassland with rocky outcrops or boulder fields. Woodland may be found on lower slopes or in sheltered gullies and ravines, where permanent or seasonal rocky streams tumble down these hillsides. Due to their coastal location, these landscapes usually contain few human features (other than footpaths or power lines) and often possess a distinct remote and exposed character and may offer striking views along the surrounding coast and sea. At the base of these hills, hillsides become more rocky and give way to rocky coasts (often interspersed with sandy bays) or cliffs. Examples of this type of landscape can be found around the coasts of Hong Kong, for instance on the coasts of the North East New Territories and Western Lantau.

A small portion of this LCA in the Study Area is similar to the description above. It is generally of high quality, but is low in rarity. Figure 11.7 demonstrates that this LCA has a low to medium ability to accommodate change, mainly due to the presence of the existing Power Station. This LCA therefore has a medium sensitivity to change.

Figure 11.7 Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape

11.6.6 Landscape Resources

Site A (the wind farm site) is located approximately 2km offshore of Lamma Island. The only LR found within this area is open sea.

Site B (the onshore laydown areas and the onshore landing site for the submarine cable), are located at the existing Lamma Power Station Extension. This is a man made reclaimed landscape element containing infrastructure associated with power generation activities, including engineering structures, hardstand areas and access roads. There are also a number of constructed soft landscape features including lawns and plantings. The potential impacts on existing LRs are shown in Figure 11.8.

Site A LRs

LR 1 – Seascape

Figure 11.9 shows this LR is generally of medium quality, ie the area has no significant characteristics such as colour, rock formations etc. It is also abundant, therefore is low in importance and rarity. Whilst this LR is considered to be of importance in Hong Kong, it is abundant, of high maturity and of medium quality in the Study Area. This LR is therefore considered to have a medium sensitivity.

Figure 11.9 LR1 - Seascape

Site B LRs

LR 2 Man made rocky sea-wall

The man-made rocky sea wall is comprised of a revetment structure along the edge of the Lamma Power Station Extension that provides sea defence to the Power Station. Figure 11.10 shows the revetment structure provides an artificial sea edge. This LR is of low quality, low rarity, significance and maturity. It therefore has a low sensitivity.

Figure 11.10 LR2 – Man made rocky sea wall

LR 3 – Industrial Area

Figure 11.11 shows this area consists of infrastructure associated with power generation including engineering structures, hardstand areas` and access roads. This LR is common in the Study Area due to the large size of the Power Station Extension and has low regional significance. It has a high ability accommodate change. The sensitivity of this LR is low.

Figure 11.11 LR3 – Industrial Area

LR 4 – Soft Landscape areas

Figure 11.12 shows this LR has number of constructed soft landscape features including trees shrubs and lawn areas. This LR is of medium quality, and due to its location within the Power Station, is of medium importance and rarity. It has a low maturity and a high ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

Figure 11.12 LR4 – Soft Landscape Areas

LR 5 – Mixed Shrubland

Mixed Shrubland is comprised of a mix of trees and shrubs common to Hong Kong It is found in a small area at the north of the site towards the ferry pier. Figure 11.13 shows this LR includes native species such as Macaranga tanarius and plantation species such as Acacia species., Melia azedarach and Casuarina species. The trees are generally of medium maturity and generally this LR is of fair to good quality. This LR is also relatively rare within the Study Area. The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

Figure 11.13 LR5 – Mixed Shrubland

LR 6 – Pond Area

The pond is located to the south of the Lamma Power Station Extension. It comprises the water body and the surrounding grassed banks. Figure 11.14 shows the pond is generally used for industrial purposes, so it has a low landscape quality and a high ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

Figure 11.14 LR6 – Pond

11.6.7 Distribution of LCAs and LRs

The distribution of the existing LCAs and LRs is shown on Table 11.1 below.

Table 11.1 Existing Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) and Landscape Resources (LRs)

ID	LCA/LR	Area (hectare) Within Study Area
LCA 1	Offshore Water Landscape	1350 ha
LCA 2	Inshore Water Landscape	113.3 ha
LCA 3	Industrial Urban Landscape	65.9 ha
LCA 4	Coastal Upland & Hillsides	3.4 ha
LR 1	Seascape	1463.3 ha
LR2	Man made rocky sea wall	7.6 ha
LR3	Industrial Area	32 ha
LR4	Soft Landscape Areas	2.6 ha
LR5	Mixed Shrubland	2.8 ha
LR6	Pond Area	12.1 ha

11.6.8 Landscape Impacts During Construction

The two key factors that affect the evaluation of LCA and LR impacts are the magnitude of change and the sensitivity of the landscape areas/resources. The sensitivity for each of the LCAs and LRs has been described above and the factors affecting the magnitude of change are outlined below.

Factors affecting the magnitude of change for assessing landscape impacts are:

· Compatibility of the proposed wind farm with the surrounding landscape, ie how well will it fit with its surroundings;

· Scale of the development, ie how big is the development relative to its surroundings; and,

· Reversibility of change, ie how easily changes to the landscape can be reversed.

The magnitude of change is classified as follows:

· Large – notable change in the landscape characteristics over an extensive area ranging to very intensive change over a more limited area;

· Intermediate – moderate changes to a local area;

· Small – small changes to specific landscape components; and

· Negligible – no changes to the baseline condition.

The landscape impact is a product of the magnitude of change the Project will have and the sensitivity of the LCA/LR. Table 11.2 shows the significance threshold of the LCA/LR impacts.

	Sensitivity to Change
Magnitude of Change Caused by Project		Low	Medium	High
	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate/Significant Impact	Significant Impact
	Intermediate	Slight/Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate/ Significant Impact
	Small	Slight Impact	Slight/Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact
	Negligible	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact

Table 11.2 Significance Threshold of Potential Landscape Resource Impact

Table 11.3 provides some definitions of the significance thresholds for LCA and LR impacts.

Table 11.3 Adverse / Beneficial Impact of Landscape Impact

Level of Impacts (Negative / Beneficial/ Neither)
Significant:	Moderate:	Slight:	Negligible
Adverse / beneficial impact where the Project would cause significant degradation or improvement in existing landscape baseline conditions	Adverse / beneficial impact where the Project would cause noticeable degradation or improvement in existing landscape baseline conditions	Adverse / beneficial impact where the Project would cause a barely noticeable degradation or improvement in existing landscape conditions or where the changes brought about by the Project would not be apparent in visual terms	The Project does not affect the existing landscape baseline conditions

11.6.9 Unmitigated Landscape Impacts During Construction

Table 11.4 shows the impact of the Project on each of the LRs and LCAs and the overall impact based on the preceding Landscape Impact Assessment Matrix.

Table 11.4 Unmitigated Landscape Impact Significance Threshold Matrix

ID	LR/LCA	Area (ha)	Area Affected by Proposed Development	% of Area / Length Affected	Sensitivity to Change	Magnitude of Change	Significance Threshold of Landscape Impact
LCA 1	Offshore Waters Landscape	1350 ha	700 ha	52%	Medium	Large	Moderate
LCA 2	Inshore Waters Landscape	113.3 ha	Nil	Nil	Medium	Negligible	Negligible
LCA 3	Industrial Urban Landscape	65.9 ha	2.78 ha	4.21%	Low	Small	Slight
LCA 4	Coastal Upland & Hillsides	3.4 ha	Nil	Nil	Medium	Negligible	Negligible
LR 1	Seascape	1463.3 ha	0.16 ha	0.01%	Medium	Small	Slight
LR 2	Man made rocky sea wall	7.6 ha	0.001 ha	0.01%	Low	Small	Slight
LR 3	Industrial Area	32 ha	0.02 ha	0.06%	Low	Small	Slight
LR 4	Soft Landscape areas	2.6 ha	0.001ha	0.04%	Low	Small	Slight
LR 5	Mixed Shrubland	2.8 ha	Nil	Nil	Medium	Negligible	Negligible
LR 6	Pond Area	12.1 ha	2.67ha	22.06%	Low	Intermediate	Slight

11.6.10 Summary of un-mitigated Landscape Impacts

Landscape Character Areas

LCA 1 Offshore Waters Landscape

This LCA is considered to have a medium sensitivity mainly due to its high importance and relative abundance. This LCA will be affected by the location of the 35 wind turbines, offshore sub-station and offshore monitoring mast. The area that will have an effect on this LCA is considered to be the entire project boundary due to the large scale of the turbines. These items will affect approximately 700ha of this LCA. The significance threshold on this LCA is considered moderate.

LCA 2 Inshore Waters Landscape

This LCA is also considered to have a medium sensitivity, mainly due to the proximity of the existing Power Station. The magnitude of change for this LCA will be negligible as the submarine cable will lie along the sea floor. The significance threshold on this LCA is negligible.

LCA 3 Industrial Urban Landscape

This LCA is considered to have a low sensitivity due to the heavy industrial nature of the facilities. A very small amount of area will be affected by the submarine cable landing causing a small magnitude of change. The resulting significance threshold will be slight.

LCA 4 Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape

This LCA has medium sensitivity. This is due to its relatively high quality, but it has a medium ability to accommodate change due to its proximity to the Power Station. There will be no impacts on this LCA resulting in a negligible significance threshold.

Landscape Resources

LR1 – Seascape

This LR has a medium sensitivity as it is considered to be medium in quality and in abundance. Only a small area will be affected (0.16 ha) which is considered a small magnitude of change. As this change is only 0.01% of the LR within the study area, the significance threshold is considered to be slight.

LR2 - Man made rocky sea-wall

The man made rocky sea wall was considered to have a low sensitivity due to its relatively low landscape quality and its abundance in the area. Only a very small area will be affected by the submarine cable landing and the magnitude of change is considered small. This will result in a slight significance threshold.

LR3 – Industrial Area

The Industrial Area is considered to have a low sensitivity due to its low landscape quality and its high ability to accommodate change. A very small area will be affected by the construction of the cable trench will cause a small magnitude of change. The resulting significance threshold will be slight.

LR4 – Soft Landscape areas

This LR was considered to have a low sensitivity due to its low maturity and high ability to accommodate change. A very small area will be affected by the excavation of the cable trench and the magnitude of change is considered to be small. This will result in a slight significance threshold.

LR5 – Mixed Shrubland

This LR is considered to have a medium sensitivity due to its high quality and rarity within the Study Area. However, there will be no change to this LR and therefore a negligible significance threshold.

LR6 – Pond

This LR has a low sensitivity due to its low landscape quality and its high ability to accommodate change. This are will be temporarily affected during the construction stage of the project that will result in a slight significance threshold.

11.6.11 Landscape Mitigation Measures

Landscape mitigation measures are proposed to not only further reduce the above impacts but to generally improve the amenity of the development.

The landscape mitigation measures are shown in Figure 11.15.

ID No.	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measure	Funding Agency	Implementation Agency
LMM 1	Tree and Shrub Planting. All plant materials affected by the works relating to the submarine cable landing are to be replaced with new plantings to match the existing situation. All planting of trees and shrubs is to be carried out in accordance with the relevant best practice guidelines. Plant densities are to be provided in future Detailed Design documents and are to be selected so as to achieve a finished landscape that matches the surrounding, undisturbed, equivalent landscape types.	Developer	Contractor
LMM 2	Relocation. Established trees of value to be re-located where practically feasible.	Developer	Contractor
LMM 3	Site hoardings to be compatible with the surrounding environment. Where possible, site hoardings should be coloured to complement the surrounding areas. *-Colours such as green and light brown are recommended.	Developer	Contractor
LMM 4	Reinstatement. Landscape resources affected by the onshore cable trench are to be reinstated to match existing conditions.	Developer	Contractor

Construction phase mitigation measures above will be carried out before or during the construction phase of the project.

Table 11.5 Mitigated and Un-mitigated Construction Impacts

	Un-mitigated Construction impacts			Mitigated Construction Impacts
	Construction Impact threshold	Adverse/ Beneficial/Neither	Recommended Construction Mitigation Measures	Construction Impact threshold following mitigation	Adverse/ Beneficial/Neither
LCA 1 Offshore Water Landscape	Moderate	Adverse	Nil	Moderate	Adverse
LCA 2 Inshore Water Landscape	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Neither
LCA 3 Industrial Urban Landscape	Slight	Adverse	1 - 4	Negligible	Neither
LCA 4 Coastal upland & Hillsides	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Neither
LR 1 Seascape	Slight	Adverse	Nil	Slight	Adverse
LR 2 Man made rocky sea-wall	Slight	Adverse	4	Negligible	Neither
LR 3 Industrial Area	Slight	Adverse	1 - 4	Negligible	Neither
LR 4 Soft Landscape areas	Slight	Adverse	1, 2, 4	Negligible	Neither
LR 5 Mixed Shrubland	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Neither

Table 11.6 Mitigated and Un-mitigated Operation Impacts

	Un-Mitigated Impacts			Mitigated Impacts
	Operation	Adverse/ Beneficial/Neither	Recommended Mitigation	Operation Day 1	Operation Year 10	Adverse/ Beneficial/Neither
LCA 1 Offshore Water Landscape	Moderate	Adverse	Nil	Moderate	Moderate	Adverse
LCA 2 Inshore Water Landscape	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither
LCA 3 Industrial Urban Landscape	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither
LCA 4 Coastal upland & Hillsides	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither
LR 1 Seascape	Slight	Adverse	Nil	Slight	Slight	Adverse
LR 2 Man made rocky sea-wall	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither
LR 3 Industrial Area	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither
LR 4 Soft Landscape areas	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither
LR 5 Mixed Shrubland	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither
LR 6 Pond	Negligible	Neither	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Neither

11.6.12 Effectiveness of Landscape Character Areas and Landscape Resource Mitigation Measures

It will not be possible to mitigate the impacts on LCA1 Offshore Waters Landscape or LR 1 Seascape. However, the mitigation measures proposed will effectively further reduce the impacts identified on the other LCAs and LRs. Tables 11.5 and 11.6 show the effectiveness of the LMMs in reducing the significance thresholds of the impacts on the LCAs and LRs.

11.6.13 Summary of Residual Impacts on the Landscape Character Areas During Construction

There will be moderate residual construction impacts on LCA1 Offshore Waters Landscape , and negligible residual impacts on LCAs 2 Inshore Waters Landscape, 3 Industrial Urban Landscape and 4 Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape.

11.6.14 Summary of Residual Impacts on Landscape Character Areas During Operation

There will be negligible residual operational impacts on LCAs 2 Inshore Waters Landscape, 3 Industrial Urban Landscape and 4 Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape. There will be slight adverse residual operational impacts on LCA1 Offshore Waters Landscape.

11.6.15 Summary of Residual Impacts on the Landscape Resources During Construction

There will be negligible residual construction impacts on the following LRs:

· LR 2 Man made rocky sea-wall

· LR 3 Industrial Area

· LR 4 Soft Landscape areas

· LR 5 Mixed Shrubland

· LR 6 Pond

There will be slight residual construction impacts on LR1 Seascape.

11.6.16 Summary of Residual Impacts on Landscape Resources during Operation

There will be slight residual operation impacts on LR1 Seascape and negligible impacts on all other LRs.

11.7 Visual Impact Assessment

11.7.1 Introduction

The following tasks were undertaken for the visual impact assessment.

Define the view shed that would be potentially impacted by the Project and map the areas of visual impact - Geographical Information System (GIS) software was utilised to determine areas that could potentially see the development during construction and operation. This GIS view shed analysis was based solely on topography and did not take into account the screening potential of vegetation, which would further reduce the actual view shed. The GIS view shed analysis also mapped the visibility of the development from roads and houses.

Assess indicative view points as a means of assessing the visual impact on the broader landscape - Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR) view points around the development, have been selected as indicative of the range of views from accessible locations within the view shed. Photomontages have been prepared to show the existing landscape and the landscape with the development at the key VSRs.

Discuss visual mitigation measures - measures (if required) that will reduce any potential visual impacts have been identified. This may include planting and recommendations for material and finishes. These measures will also help improve the overall amenity of the Project. Residual impacts are also discussed.

11.7.2 Viewer Perception and the Acceptability of Wind Farms

Viewer perception is an important consideration for wind farm proposals, especially in areas near tourist destinations or heritage areas. The visual impact of a wind farm ultimately depends on the opinion of the viewer. In most LVIA’s undertaken in Hong Kong, the assumption for most infrastructure developments is that the change to the view will be adverse. However, for the development of an offshore wind farm, the degree of visual impact partly depends on how the viewer perceives renewable energy, the wind turbines and the existing baseline landscape in which the turbines are to be located.

The findings from a number of studies (both Australian and overseas) are appended to this report in Annex 11A.

The visible presence of wind turbines will change the existing view. However, to postulate that this will create irreversible damage to the landscape values and negatively impact the amenity of the area cannot be substantiated on the basis of perception studies (refer Annex 11A).

Perception studies show some people find wind turbines attractive and have shown that the majority of those surveyed find wind turbines visually appealing in the landscape. Therefore, for many people, the visual impact may be beneficial, not adverse as often assumed. Even if the wind turbines are visible at both sunset and sunrise, there is no evidence to suggest that their presence will be detrimental to the viewer’s experience.

Perception studies continually show that in many Australian and overseas examples that between 60-70% of people find wind turbines an attractive element in the landscape, with up to 15% of respondents undecided and 20% disliked wind farms. Viewer perception is an important issue to consider, especially in areas near tourist destinations or other attractions.

It is important to realise that this acceptance level is unique to wind farms. Similar research to the visual impact of a power line, a major road or other large infrastructure projects would show a greater degree of dislike for the changes these types of projects make on the landscape. The greater acceptance of wind turbines in the landscape may well be a result of their clean lines and aerodynamic shape, or perhaps with their perceptual link with green energy. Irrespective of the reason, it is clear that in these studies wind turbines are generally accepted by the majority of viewers in all but the most sensitive of locations.

11.7.3 View Shed Determination and Areas of Potential Visual Impact

The visual impact assessment is informed by an understanding of the existing visual qualities within the region that can be visually affected by a development. This area is referred to as the view shed.

Defining an appropriate view shed is the starting point to understanding the visual impacts of a development as the area of the view shed will vary depending on the nature and scale of the proposed development. The larger a development the greater the view shed as it may be visually apparent for a greater distance. Once the view shed is established, locations can be identified within the view shed that are either particularly sensitive or indicative of the visual impact for a number of locations. In some circumstances, view points may be identified beyond the view shed to recognise the visual impact on locations of particularly high sensitivity.

The proposed wind turbines, substation and monitoring mast are the major visual element of the proposed development and may visually impact on the surrounding VSRs. As the viewer moves further away from these structures the visual impact decreases until it is no longer visible. However, before the point of non-visibility is reached, the wind turbines have reduced in scale such that they no longer have a significant visual impact. In most landscapes, especially those which have some degree of human intervention, the limit of the view shed is defined as that point at which the wind turbines would have an insignificant effect on the view.

It should be noted that the View Shed determination is based on the visibility of the turbines in daylight. The potential visual impacts during the night are discussed in Section 11.7.18.

11.7.4 Baseline Visual Character

The general baseline visual character of the wind farm site is characterised by the following elements:

Lamma Island – Lamma Island comprises sandy beaches, rocky shorelines as well as vegetated hill slopes with granite outcrops, particularly on the southern end of the island. Also visible within the vicinity are the low-rise village houses, however the visual envelope of Lamma is dominated by the Lamma Power Station, particularly the three stacks. The existing wind-demonstration project is also visible.

Other outlying Islands – A number of other outlying islands are also located within the visual envelope, including Cheung Chau, Hei Ling Chau and Lantau. All of these contain undulating vegetated slopes with scattered villages along the island perimeters.

Open Seascape – The visual envelope is dominated by areas of sea, ranging from the more secluded bays surrounding the outlying Islands, to more open sea areas further offshore. These areas often contain relatively high numbers of transient marine vessels, but also evoke a generally serene natural marine environment.

All of the above elements combine to create an overall visual envelope that is generally of medium to high quality due to the combination of water, islands and a mix of natural and man-made landscapes.

11.7.5 Visually Sensitive Receivers

In recognising that the view shed is not the limit of visibility, but rather the extent to which the wind turbine would have an insignificant visual impact on the VSRs, the extent of a view shed will differ in the context of different landscapes.

A view shed in a man-modified landscape is different to a view shed in a pristine landscape or landscapes where there are no apparent signs of human influence. This is because in landscapes that appear ‘natural’ or pristine, a man-made element such as a wind turbine, can visually influence the landscape for as long as a viewer can discern that newly introduced element. A man-made element in a pristine landscape irrevocably changes a pristine landscape from natural to man-modified. Therefore, view sheds in pristine areas are extended to the limit of human visibility.

However, in man-modified landscapes, in which there are many other existing built forms or modifications to the landscape, the view shed extends to that distance at which the wind turbine becomes a minor element in the landscape to all but the most sensitive of viewers. The wind turbine may still be visible beyond this view shed. However, it is considered that beyond this view shed the visual impact will be insignificant.

The view shed is therefore the area that is most likely to be visually impacted.

The visual impact of a development can be quantified by reference to the degree of influence on a person’s field of vision. Figure 11.16 illustrates the typical parameters of human vision based on anthropometric data.[2]This data provides a basis for assessing and interpreting the impact of a development by comparing the extent to which the development would intrude into the central field of vision (both horizontally and vertically).

11.7.6 Horizontal Field of View

The central field of vision for most people covers an angle of between 50° and 60°. Within this angle, both eyes observe an object simultaneously. This creates a central field of greater magnitude than that possible by each eye separately. This central field of vision is termed the 'binocular field' and within this field images are sharp, depth perception occurs and colour discrimination is possible. These physical parameters are illustrated in Figure 11.16.

Figure 11.16 Horizontal Field of View

The visual impact of a development will vary according to the proportion in which a development impacts on the central field of vision. Developments, which take up less that 5% of the central binocular field, are usually insignificant in most landscapes (5% of 50° = 2.5°).

The wind farm is comprised of a number of individual turbines of the same dimensions, with large separation distances between each individual turbine, substation and monitoring mast. It would therefore not be accurate to examine the entire width of the wind farm when reviewing the horizontal field of view. This effect can also be demonstrated by the example of a farm fence that may be many kilometres in width, yet as one moves further away it becomes less apparent, until at some distance it is not possible to separate this element from the horizontal plane of the landscape. In essence, as soon as one wind turbine becomes visually insignificant, so do all of the turbines in the entire wind farm. In assessing the visual impact of the wind turbine it is therefore assumed that the largest horizontal component is the entire rotor, which would be a maximum of 111 m wide.

As shown in Table 11.7, calculations suggest that the impact of a 111 m wide wind turbine rotor would reduce to insignificance at about 2.6 km, as it would form less than 5% or 2.5° of the horizontal field of view.

Table 11.7 Visual Impact Based on the Horizontal Field of View

Horizontal Field of View	Impact	Distance from an Observer to a 111m Rotor
<2.5° of view	Insignificant The development will take up less than 5% of the central field of view. The development, unless particularly conspicuous against the background, will not intrude significantly into the view. The extent of the vertical angle will also affect the visual impact.	>2.6km
2.5° – 30° of view	Potentially noticeable The development may be noticeable and its degree of visual intrusion will depend greatly on its ability to blend in with its surroundings.	200m – 2.6km
>30° of view	Potentially visually dominant Developments that fill more than 50% of the central field of vision will always be noticed and only sympathetic treatments will mitigate visual effects.	< 200m

11.7.7 Vertical Field of View

A similar analysis can be undertaken based upon the vertical field of view for human vision. As can be seen in the Figure 11.17 the typical line of sight is considered horizontal or 0°. A person’s natural or normal line of sight is normally a 10° cone of view below the horizontal and, if sitting, approximately 15°.

Figure 11.17 Vertical Field of View

Objects which take up 5% of this cone of view (5% of 10° = 0.5°) would only take up a small proportion of the vertical field of view, and are only visible when one focuses on them directly. Objects that take up such a small proportion of the vertical view cone are not dominant, nor do they create a significant change to the existing environment when such short objects are placed within a disturbed or man-modified landscape.

Table 11.8 shows the relationship between impact and the proportion that the development occupies within the vertical line of sight.

Table 11.8 Visual Impact Based on Vertical Field of View

Vertical Line of Sight	Impact	Distance from an Observer to a 136m Tall Wind Turbine
< 0.5° of vertical angle	Insignificant A thin line in the landscape.	>15.5 km
0.5° – 2.5° of vertical angle	Potentially noticeable The degree of visual intrusion will depend on the development’s ability to blend in with the surroundings.	3.0 – 15.5 km
> 2.5° of vertical angle	Visually evident Usually visible, however the degree of visual intrusion will depend of the width of the object and its placement within the landscape.	< 3.0km

These calculations suggest distances at which the magnitude of visual impact of the wind turbine will reduce with distance. At distances greater than 15.5km, a fully visible wind turbine would be an insignificant element within the landscape.

These calculations seem closer to the observed distances at which levels of impact seem to change. It is stressed that these ranges will only provide a guide for the visual impact assessment.

11.7.8 Determining the Visual Extent of Impact

Generally, the more conservative, or worse-case distances form the basis for the assessment of visual impacts. Therefore for this development the greater impacts would be associated with the vertical field of view. It is therefore proposed to use the vertical field of view and extend the view shed to 15.5 km.

11.7.9 GIS Analysis

A GIS view shed analysis has identified those areas that can potentially be visually impacted by the wind turbine (see Figure 11.18). Such analysis is based on topography only, and shows those areas that would be screened by intervening hills etc. It does not take into account intervening vegetation or buildings, nor does it take into account small variations in topography, such as road cuttings. Therefore it is a conservative assessment of those areas that may be potentially able to view the wind turbine.

Table 11.9 below shows the land based viewing areas and marine based viewing areas that may be affected for the South-West Lamma site.

Table 11.9 Potential View shed of Land and Marine Based VSRs

Site	<3.0km		3.0-15.5km
	Land Area	Marine Area	Land Area	Marine Area
South-West Lamma	0.49 km^2	42 km^2	35 km^2	273 km^2

Generally, land areas contain a higher concentration of VSRs particularly permanent residents, and recreational hikers, bathers etc. These VSRs may have a higher sensitivity to change and are more likely to experience a higher significance threshold. For the Project Site, 0.49 km² of land area lies within the 3.0 km ‘Visually Evident Zone’ that may experience a significant impact. The vast majority of this zone is a marine area that will only comprise transient marine based VSRs on commercial or recreational vessels that are moving past the site (refer Figure 11.18).

However, within the 3.0-15.5 km zone there is 35 km² of land area that contains a number of potential VSRs with varying sensitivities. There is also 273 km² of marine area that may contain transient marine vessels.

There are a number of different types of VSRs that may be affected by the wind farm, with varying sensitivities that will affect the significance threshold of any visual impact. These are discussed below.

11.7.10 Atmospheric Factors Which Will Affect Visual Impact

Many climatic conditions result in changes to visibility. For example, sea haze, rainfall and other atmospheric conditions will alter the visibility of the wind farm. The diminution of visual clarity bought about by atmospheric conditions also increases with distance.

Sea Haze

Sea haze is a climatic condition along coastlines that can reduce visibility even on days when the weather is fine. Wind which blows across the ocean or other atmospheric conditions can cause a sea haze, limiting views to the wind farm from surrounding areas.

However, sea haze is unlikely to have much impact on the visibility of the development when viewed from close proximity, say less than 3.0km. When the same features are viewed from greater distances within the view shed the effect of sea haze will greatly reduce visibility and any potential visual impact.

Cloud Cover

Cloudy days can also reduce the visibility of a wind farm. During site inspections of similar facilities it was apparent that a backdrop of grey cloud reduced the visual impact of the turbines. Full cloud cover also reduced the apparent contrast on elements that extend above the landscape backdrop and as these elements were neither strongly shadowed nor reflective.

Figure 11.19 shows that in Hong Kong, for much of the year the percentage of cloud cover exceeds 50%.

Rainfall

The effect that rainfall has on visibility can be measured in two ways. Firstly, the event of falling rain reduces visibility as the water droplets obscure vision. This varies greatly depending on the heaviness of the precipitation, but even light rain obscures distant objects greatly. Secondly, the event of rain, particularly sustained rain periods, reduces visitor numbers. Therefore, the visual impact is reduced on those days as lesser viewers are visiting the area and looking at the development.

Figure 11.19 also shows that during the wet season, particularly from May through September, Hong Kong receives on average approximately 10mm of rain per day. These rain events can reduce visibility.

Reduced Visibility

The Hong Kong Observatory noted that in 2008 there were a total of 1951 hours of reduced visibility in Hong Kong. Reduced visibility is defined as:

Reduced visibility refers to visibility below 8 kilometres when there is no fog, mist, or precipitation.

On days when reduced visibility is being experienced in Hong Kong, the maximum view shed (15.5km) for the wind farm would reduce to below 8 kilometres.

Assessment Scenarios

Whilst the above describes some of the climatic conditions that reduce the visibility of the wind farm, the following assessment is based on a worst case impact scenario on visual quality assuming perfectly clear viewing conditions. Mitigation measures are proposed to reduce these impacts.

11.7.11 Wind Farm Construction Impacts

The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be undertaken over a period of approximately 9 months (see Section 5). The wind monitoring mast will be erected at the wind farm well before the wind turbines and offshore substation. During the construction period there will be two sources of temporary construction based impacts. The first will be from the erection of the turbines, offshore substation and monitoring mast at the wind farm site. The second source of impacts will be the onshore assembly of wind farm components in preparation for their delivery to the wind farm site.

Figures 11.20 and 11.21 show the typical examples of turbine assembly at the onshore laydown area. The maximum height of the structures being assembled is approximately 70 metres.

Figure 11.20 Typical Rotor Assembly[3]

Figure 11.21 Typical Mast Assembly [4]

11.7.12 VSR Assessment

The following factors have been considered in the visual impact assessment.

VSR Sensitivity

The first set of criteria relate to the sensitivity of the VSRs. They include:

· Value and quality of existing views;

· Type and estimated number of receiver population;

· Duration of frequency of view; and

· Degree of visibility.

The views available to the identified VSRs were rated in accordance with their sensitivity to change using high, medium or low and are defined as follows:

· High

i. The nature of the viewer groups who expect a high degree of control over their immediate environment; and

ii. The viewer groups are in close proximity to the Proposed Development.

· Medium

iii. The nature of the viewer groups who have some degree of control over their immediate environment, eg people in transit.

· Low

iv. The nature of the viewer groups does not expect a high degree of control over their immediate environment.

It should be noted that the above only provides guidance, and each VSR regardless of type has been assessed according to its specific circumstances.

11.7.13 Magnitude of Change

This set of criteria is related to the specific details of the proposed development and how it relates to the existing landscape and the visible magnitude of change it will cause. The criteria to be assessed are:

· Compatibility of the Proposed Development with the surrounding landscape;

· Reversibility of change;

· Viewing distance;

· Potential blockage of view; and,

· Duration of impact under construction and operation phases.

The magnitude of change to a view was rated as large, intermediate, small or negligible and are defined as follows:

· Large: eg major change in view;

· Intermediate: eg moderate change in view;

· Small: eg minor change in view; and,

· Negligible: eg no discernible change in view.

The degree of visual impact or significance threshold was rated in a similar fashion to the landscape impact, ie significant, moderate, slight and negligible. Where the matrix table indicates a range within the significance threshold, eg; Moderate – Significant, the final significance threshold is assigned based on the overall severity of the impact.

The visual impact is a product of the magnitude of change to the existing baseline conditions, the landscape context and the sensitivities of VSRs. The significance threshold of visual impact was rated for the construction phase and for Day 1 and Year 10 of the operation phase.

11.7.14 Visual Impact Assessment from Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSR)

Figure 11.22 shows the locations of the VSRs from publicly accessible locations, which have been selected for analysis. The views of the wind farm have been selected to represent the range of views from accessible locations. In accordance with EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2002 Significance thresholds of residual impact (upon mitigation): Operation Day 1 and Year 10 are shown.

VSR1 – View from Lamma Island (Hung Shing Ye beach)

This VSR is located approximately 7 km north-east of the wind farm. This beach is a popular location on Lamma Island and contains recreational and permanent residential VSR’s.

Table 11.10 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	Medium
Visitor numbers	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Low
Duration and frequency of views to development	Medium
Degree of visibility of Development	High
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Table 11.10 shows the value and quality of view for these VSRs is considered medium as the Power Station is clearly visible on the right which detracts from the view quality. Visitor numbers are considered high as this is a popular destination, particularly on weekends. The availability and amenity of other views is considered low as the main view corridor is out to sea towards the wind farm. The duration and frequency of views is considered medium however the degree of visibility of the development will be high. The sensitivity of these VSRs is therefore considered high.

Table 11.11 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Medium	Medium
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	7000 m	7000 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	9 months	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Intermediate	Intermediate

Table 11.11 shows that the compatibility with the surrounding landscape is considered medium as the existing Power Station is within the view corridor. The potential blockage of view is considered low due to the slender design of the turbines, however due to the height, the scale of development is considered large. The magnitude of change is considered to be Intermediate.

Table 11.12 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-Significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.12 shows the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate towards the end of the construction process for the offshore wind farm site.

The onshore laydown area will be closer to the VSRs (approximately 1.4 km), and the height of the development will be a maximum of approximately 70 m. The partial construction of the turbines will also be adjacent to the existing Lamma Power Station, so the compatibility of the laydown area with the existing visual environment will be high. The visual impacts arising from the temporary onshore laydown area are therefore also expected to be moderate.

As the temporary laydown area will be sited on the existing Lamma Power Station extension, the surrounding topography will screen off any potential visual impact arising from this area, greatly reducing visual impacts to other VSRs.

Table 11.13 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Figure 11.23 shows a photomontage of the view of the wind farm from this location. It is important to note the two contrasting elements within this field of view, the peaks of Lamma Island on the left and the Power Station to the right. The above assessment shows that due to the high numbers of visitors, and high quality view afforded from this location that the sensitivity of this VSR is medium. The combination of the wind turbines being located over 7 kilometres away and the existing Power Station in the view results in an intermediate magnitude of change. Table 11.13 shows the resulting significance threshold for this VSR is considered to be moderate adverse during operation.

VSR2 – View from Lo So Shing Beach

This VSR is located approximately 5.5 km north-east of the wind farm. This beach is a more secluded location on Lamma Island, with low visitor numbers and contains recreational and permanent residential VSR’s.

Table 11.14 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Visitor numbers	Low
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Low
Duration and frequency of views to development	Medium
Degree of visibility of Development	High
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.14 shows the value and quality of view for these VSRs is considered high as this beach looks to the west and the Power Station is a greater distance away. Visitor numbers are considered low as this is a more remote and secluded beach on Lamma. The availability and amenity of other views is considered low as the main view corridor is out to sea. However, the wind farm will be to the left of the view as opposed to Hung Shing Ye beach where the Wind Farm is directly in front. The duration and frequency of views is considered medium however the degree of visibility of the development will be high. The sensitivity of these VSRs is therefore considered medium.

Table 11.15 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Medium	Medium
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	5500 m	5500 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	9 months	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Large	Large

Table 11.15 shows that the compatibility with the surrounding landscape is considered medium as the existing Power Station is within the view corridor to the right. The potential blockage of view is considered low due to the slender design of the turbines, however due to the height, the scale of development is considered large. The magnitude of change is considered to be Large.

Table 11.16 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-Significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.16 shows the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate adverse towards the end of the construction process for the offshore wind farm site.

As the temporary laydown area will be sited on the existing Lamma Power Station extension, the surrounding topography will screen off any potential visual impact arising from this area, greatly reducing visual impacts to other VSRs.

Table 11.17 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Figure 11.24 shows a photomontage of the view of the wind farm from Lo So Shing beach. It is important to note that from Lo So Shing beach, the wind farm will be to the left of the view corridor and it is likely that not all turbines will be visible from this beach. The above assessment shows that due to the low numbers of visitors, but high quality view afforded from this location that the sensitivity of this VSR is medium. The combination of the wind turbines being located approximately 5 kilometres away results in a large magnitude of change. Table 11.17 shows the resulting significance threshold for this VSR is considered to be moderate adverse during operation.

VSR3 – View from Yung Shue Wan ferry Pier

This VSR is located at about 6.2 km north-east of the wind farm site. The ferry pier has high numbers of visitors and the ferry from this location is the most frequent method of transport for both residents and tourists to Lamma Island.

Table 11.18 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	Medium
Visitor numbers	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	High
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Nil
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.18 shows that the value and quality of view is considered medium particularly in closer proximity to Lamma Island. Whilst there are high visitor numbers to this location, they are all transient and the availability and amenity of alternative views is high in the changing view corridor. The duration and frequency of views to the development is low as the existing landforms screen the development from these VSRs. This results in a medium sensitivity for these VSRs.

Table 11.19 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Moderate	Moderate
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	6200 m	6200 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	9 months	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Negligible	Negligible

Table 11.19 shows the wind farm is not visible for these VSRs at this location resulting in a negligible magnitude of change.

Table 11.20 Significance Threshold during Construction

Neither the onshore laydown area nor the offshore wind farm construction site will be visible for these VSRs. Table 11.20 shows that during construction the significance threshold will be negligible.

Table 11.21 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Figure 11.25 shows that the wind turbines will not be visible from this location. Whilst the sensitivity of the VSRs is considered medium, mainly due to the high visitor numbers, there is a negligible magnitude of change. Tables 11.20 and 11.21 show the significance threshold for this VSR during construction and operation will be negligible.

VSR4 – View from Ferry to Cheung Chau

This VSR is located at approximately 11.5 km north of the wind farm. The VSRs in this location are both recreational, visitors travelling to Cheung Chau, and residential, residents travelling to and from their homes on Cheung Chau.

Table 11.22 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Visitor numbers	Medium
Availability and amenity of alternative views	High
Duration and frequency of views to development	Medium
Degree of visibility of Development	Medium
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.22 shows that whilst the value and quality of view is considered to be high, the medium visitor numbers are transient with a high availability and amenity of other views. The duration and frequency of views to the development is medium as the view corridor is constantly changing. The degree of visibility of the development is also considered medium. This results in a medium sensitivity for these VSRs.

Table 11.23 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	11,500 m	11,500 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

The wind farm is generally considered to have a low compatibility with the surrounding landscape. However, it could be argued that a higher compatibility could be valid as the Power Station is clearly visible. Due to the large distance and low potential blockage of view the magnitude of change is considered small.

Table 11.24 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.24 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts arising from both the onshore laydown site and the offshore wind farm site will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to slight adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.25 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.26 shows the view towards the wind farm from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered to be medium, mainly due to the medium degree of visibility of the wind farm, and the medium visitor numbers. The magnitude of change is considered to be small due to the long distance to the wind turbines and the small scale of development from this distance. Table 11.25 shows the resulting significance threshold for operation is considered to be slight adverse.

VSR5 – View from Cheung Chau

These VSRs are located approximately 5.3 km north west of the wind farm at the closest point. There are both recreational VSRs, mainly walkers particularly along Peak Road West, and residential VSRs located in the vicinity.

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	Low
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	High
Degree of visibility of Development	High
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Table 11.26 Sensitivity / Quality

Table 11.26 shows the value and quality of the view is considered to be high and there will be high duration and frequency of views to the wind turbines. This results in a high sensitivity for these VSRs.

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	5300 m	5300 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Medium	Medium

Table 11.27 Magnitude of Change

Table 11.27 shows that whilst the compatibility of the wind turbines is low for these VSRs, there is also a low potential blockage of view due to the slender design of the turbines. The turbines are also over 5 kilometres away, reducing their visibility. The magnitude of change is considered medium for these VSRs.

Table 11.28 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.28 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts arising from both the onshore laydown and offshore wind farm sites will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.29 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.27 shows the wind farm from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered high due to the high quality of the view with relatively few man-made objects in the field of view. Due to the wind farm being over 5 kilometres away, the magnitude of change is considered to be medium. Tables 11.28 and 11.29 show the resulting significance threshold during both construction and operation is considered to be moderate adverse.

VSR6 – View from Discovery Bay

These VSRs are located approximately 13 km north of the wind farm. These VSRs are mainly residential and are high in number.

Table 11.30 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Medium
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Table 11.30 shows the value and quality of view is considered high as it overlooks the waters and offshore water ways of this region of Hong Kong. The number of VSRs is also considered high as it is a popular residential area. The duration and frequency of views to the development is considered medium as the wind farm is located to the south east and is obscured by the existing Islands. The degree of visibility is therefore also considered low. The overall sensitivity is considered high for these VSRs.

Table 11.31 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	13,070 m	13,070 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.31 shows the magnitude of change is considered small due to the long distance to the wind turbines and the low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.32 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.32 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.33 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.28 shows the wind farm from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered high mainly due to the fact that there are large numbers of residential VSRs in this location. However, there is a relatively large distance to the wind farm, over 13 kilometres. In addition, many of the turbines are obscured by Hei Ling Chau. As a result, the magnitude of change is considered small. Whilst the above matrices in Tables 11.32 and 11.33 would indicate that the significance threshold is moderate adverse for these VSRs, the photomontage shows that the wind farm will be barely discernible. Therefore the significance threshold is reduced to slight adverse for both construction and operation.

VSR7 - View from Silvermine Bay (Mui Wo)

These VSRs are located approximately 10 km north west of the wind farm. These VSRs are both residential and recreational and whilst numbers vary they can be high during peak hour transit and holiday periods.

Table 11.34 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	Large
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	High
Degree of visibility of Development	Medium
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Table 11.34 shows the value and quality of view is considered high as it overlooks the islands and inshore water ways of this region of Hong Kong. The number of VSRs is also considered high as it is a popular residential area and tourist destination. The duration and frequency of views to the development is considered high as the wind farm is clearly visible, albeit from a relatively long distance.. The degree of visibility is therefore considered medium. The overall sensitivity is considered High for these VSRs.

Table 11.35 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	10,100 m	10,100 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.35 shows the magnitude of change is considered small due to the long distance to the wind turbines and the low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.36 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.36 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.37 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.29 shows the wind farm from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered high mainly due to the fact that there are large numbers of residential VSRs in this location. However, there is a relatively large distance to the wind farm, over 10 kilometres. In addition, many of the turbines are obscured by Hei Ling Chau. As a result, the magnitude of change is considered small. Whilst the above matrices in Tables 11.36 and 11.37 would indicate that the significance threshold is moderate adverse for these VSRs, the photomontage shows that the wind farm will be barely discernible. Therefore the significance threshold is reduced to slight adverse for both construction and operation.

VSR8 - View from Chi Ma Wan Peninsula

These VSRs are located approximately 8 km north west of the wind farm. These VSRs are mostly recreational and the walking trails in the area and destinations such as Yi Long Wan. Due to the relatively remote location, visitor numbers are generally low.

Table 11.38 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	Low
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.38 shows the value and quality of view is considered high as it overlooks the isalnds and inshore water ways of this region of Hong Kong. The number of VSRs is also considered small due to the relatively difficulty in accessing this location. The duration and frequency of views to the development is considered low as the wind farm is located to the south east and is obscured by the existing Islands. The degree of visibility is therefore also considered low. The overall sensitivity is considered Medium for these VSRs.

Table 11.39 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	8,100 m	8,100 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.39 shows the magnitude of change is considered small due to the long distance to the wind turbines and the low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.40 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11. 40 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to slight adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.41 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.30 shows the wind farm from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered medium mainly due to the low visitor numbers. However, there is a relatively large distance to the wind farm, over 8 kilometres. In addition, many of the turbines will be obscured by intervening topography and offshore islands such as Hei Ling Chau. As a result, the magnitude of change is considered small. Therefore the significance threshold is considered slight adverse for both construction and operation.

VSR9 - View from Cheung Sha

These VSRs are located approximately 14 km north west of the wind farm. These VSRs are both residential and recreational. There are medium numbers of these VSRs

Table 11.42 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	Medium
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.42 shows the value and quality of view is considered high as it overlooks the islands and inshore water ways of this region of Hong Kong. The number of VSRs is also considered medium and comprises of both recreational visitors and residents in the surrounding Cheung Sha village. The duration and frequency of views to the development is considered low as the wind farm is located to the south east and is obscured by the existing Islands. The degree of visibility is therefore also considered low. The overall sensitivity is considered Medium for these VSRs.

Table 11.43 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	14,400 m	14,400 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.43 shows the magnitude of change is considered small due to the long distance to the wind turbines and the low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.44 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.44 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to slight adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.45 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.31 shows the wind farm from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered medium. However, there is a relatively large distance to the wind farm, over 14 kilometres. In addition, many of the turbines will be obscured by intervening topography. As a result, the magnitude of change is considered small. Therefore the significance threshold is considered slight adverse during operation.

VSR10 - View from Lantau Trail

These VSRs are located approximately 15 km north west of the wind farm. These VSRs are comprised of recreational hikers and they are low in number.

Table 11.46 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	Low
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.46 shows the value and quality of view is considered high as it overlooks the islands and inshore water ways of this region of Hong Kong. The number of VSRs is low. The duration and frequency of views to the development is considered low as the wind farm is located to the south east and is obscured by the existing Islands. The degree of visibility is therefore also considered low. The overall sensitivity is considered Medium for these VSRs.

Table 11.47 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	15,400 m	15,400 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.47 shows the magnitude of change is considered small due to the long distance to the wind turbines and the low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.48 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.48 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to slight adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.49 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.32 shows the wind farm from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered medium. However, there is a relatively large distance to the wind farm, over 15 kilometres. In addition, many of the turbines will be obscured by intervening topography and offshore islands. As a result, the magnitude of change is considered small. Therefore the significance threshold is considered slight adverse during operation.

VSR11 – View from the Peak

This VSR is located approximately 10 km north-north-east of the wind turbines. This location is one of the most popular viewing areas in Hong Kong and is visited by very high numbers of tourists year round. The peak also contains many residential VSRs.

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	High
Duration and frequency of views to development	Medium
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Table 11.50 Sensitivity / Quality

Table 11.50 shows the value and quality of view is considered high as there are spectacular views available from this location particularly to the north and south. The visitor numbers are considered high as this is a popular destination year-round and there are numerous residential VSRs in the vicinity. The availability and amenity of alternative views is considered high as there are excellent alternate views to the north and east. The duration and frequency of views is considered medium as the more popular views are to the north towards Kowloon. The degree of visibility of the development is considered low as the wind farm is located beyond Lamma Island. The sensitivity for these VSRs is therefore considered high.

Table 11.51 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	10,640 m	10,640 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.51 shows the magnitude of change is considered small mainly due to the relatively long distance to the wind turbines and low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.52 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.52 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind farm will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.53 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.33 shows the proposed wind farm from this viewpoint. Due to the high numbers of visitors and quality of the view, these VSRs are considered to have a high sensitivity. However, due to the relatively long distance to the wind turbines, over 10 kilometres, the turbines will be noticeable, but the magnitude of change is considered to be small. Table 11.53 shows the resulting significance threshold during operation is considered to be moderate adverse.

VSR 12 – View from Queen Mary Hospital and Mount Davis

These VSRs are located approximately 10.4 km north of the wind farm site. The VSRs located here are a mix of workers at the hospital, patients at the hospital and visitors at the hospital site. At Mount Davis they are more likely to be recreational VSRs.

Table 11.54 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	Medium
Number of VSR	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.54 shows the value and quality of the view is considered medium due to the prominence of other buildings and the Power Station which somewhat detracts from the view. There are high numbers of VSRs at this location as there are many visitors to the Hospital facilities and the many other residential VSRs in the near vicinity. The availability and amenity of alternative views is considered medium as there are other views available to the west. The duration and frequency of views and the degree of visibility are considered low as the wind farm is located beyond Lamma Island. Overall these VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity.

Table 11.55 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Medium	Medium
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	10,400 m	10,400 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.55 shows the magnitude of change is considered to be small mainly due to the relatively long distance between these VSRs and the wind turbines.

Table 11.56 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.56 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to slight adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.57 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.34 shows the view of the wind turbines from this location. The medium sensitivity is mainly due to the presence of other buildings and infrastructure in the field of view. The magnitude of change is considered small due to the long distance. Table 11.57 shows the resulting significance threshold is considered to be slight adverse.

VSR 13 – View from Pok Fu Lam - Pauline Chan Building, Hong Kong University and Chi Fu Fa Yuen

These VSRs are located approximately 10.2 km north of the wind farm site. The VSRs at this location are workers and students at HKU, as well as the high number of residential VSRs in the vicinity..

Table 11.58 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	Medium
Number of VSR	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Nil
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.58 shows the value and quality of the view is considered medium due to the prominence of other buildings and the Power Station which somewhat detracts from the view. There are high numbers of residential and employee VSRs at this location. The duration and frequency of views to the development is low and the degree of visibility of the wind farm is nil. Overall these VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity.

Table 11.59 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Medium	Medium
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	10,200 m	10,200m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.59 shows the magnitude of change is considered to be small mainly due to the relatively long distance between these VSRs and the wind turbines.

Table 11.60 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.60 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to slight adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.61 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.35 shows the view of the wind turbines from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered medium due to the high viewer numbers and low visibility of the site. The magnitude of change is considered to be small due to the long distance to the turbines. Table 11.61 shows the significance threshold is considered to be slight adverse during operation.

VSR 14 – View from Stanley Waterfront

This VSR is located approximately 13 km east of the wind farm. This location contains various VSRs, residential, recreational and workers. Stanley Waterfront is one of the most popular visitor destinations on Hong Kong Island.

Table 11.62 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Low
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Table 11.62 shows the value and quality of view of the sea and offshore islands from this location is considered to be high. The number of VSRs is high due to the popularity of this location with both tourist and residential VSRs. The availability and amenity, duration and frequency and degree of visibility of the development are all low as the wind farm is located beyond the offshore islands. However, due to the high visitor numbers and the high quality of view the sensitivity is also considered to be high.

Table 11.63 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	13,200 m	13,200 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Negligible	Negligible

Table 11.63 shows the wind turbines will not be visible from this location therefore the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible.

Table 11.64 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.64 shows that as neither of the construction sites will be visible, there will be a negligible impact during the temporary construction period.

Table 11.65 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage shown in Figure 11.36 shows that the wind turbines will not be visible from this location. The GIS analysis shown in Figure 11.18 indicates that from the most southern portion of the Stanley Peninsula some of the turbine may be visible. However due to the intervening topography and the distance to the wind turbines, the magnitude of change is also likely to be negligible. Therefore the high quality of view and VSRs resulted in a high sensitivity, however the wind turbines are not visible to these VSRs. Tables 11.64 and 11.65 show the resulting significance threshold is negligible during both construction and operation.

VSR 15 – View from Wong Nai Chung gap and Violet Hill

These VSRs are located approximately 13 km north-east of the wind turbines. The VSRs from this location are mainly transient road using visitors or residents to the south side of Hong Kong Island.

Table 11.66 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	Medium
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Low
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.66 shows the value and quality of view from this location is considered to be high as there are attractive views of the water and offshore islands south of Hong Kong. The number of VSRs is considered medium. The availability and amenity, duration and frequency and degree of visibility of the development are all low as the wind farm is located beyond the offshore islands. The overall sensitivity is also considered to be medium for the VSRs at this location.

Table 11.67 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	13,200 m	13,200 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Negligible	Negligible

Table 11.67 shows the wind turbines will not be visible from this location therefore the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible.

Table 11.68 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.68 shows that as neither of the construction sites will be visible, there will be a negligible impact during the temporary construction period.

Table 11.69 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage shown in Figure 11.37 shows that the wind turbines will not be visible from this location. Table 11.69 shows the resulting significance threshold during both construction and operation will be negligible.

VSR 16 – View from Ocean Park

This VSR is located approximately 9 km north-east of the wind turbines. The VSRs from this location are mainly recreational visitors to the Ocean Park complex.

Table 11.70 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Low
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

Table 11.70 shows the value and quality of the views is considered to be high as there are attractive views afforded from Ocean Park across the East Lamma Channel to Lamma Island and beyond. The number of VSRs is also considered high as Ocean Park is a very popular Hong Kong tourist attraction. The availability and amenity of alternative views is considered medium as a variety of other views are available further to the east and west. The duration and frequency of views to the development and degree of visibility of the development, are considered low as much of the development is screened by the peaks of Lamma Island. The overall sensitivity of these VSRs is considered to be medium.

Table 11.71 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	9,480 m	9,480 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

Table 11.71 shows that the magnitude of change is considered small due to the relatively long viewing distance and low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.72 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.72 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to slight adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.73 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage shown in Figure 11.38 shows the view of the wind turbines from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered medium due to the high viewer numbers and low visibility of the site. The magnitude of change is considered to be small due to the long distance to the turbines. Table 11.73 shows the significance threshold is considered to be slight adverse during operation.

VSR 17 – View from Mt Stenhouse

This VSR is located approximately 3 kilometres north-east of the wind farm and is the closest accessible land based viewing location. This location is visited by low numbers of recreation VSRs who complete the challenging hike to the summit.

Table 11.74 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	Low
Availability and amenity of alternative views	High
Duration and frequency of views to development	High
Degree of visibility of Development	High
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Table 11.74 shows the value and quality of view is considered to be high as there are excellent views from this location in all directions. The number of VSR is relatively low as this location can only be reached by completing a challenging hike. The availability and amenity of other views is considered high as there are views in all directions. The duration and frequency of views to the development and the degree of visibility of the development are both considered high, due to the relatively close proximity to the wind farm. The overall sensitivity of these VSRs is considered high.

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	3,200 m	3,200 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Large	Large

Table 11.75 Magnitude of Change

Table 11.75 shows the magnitude of change is considered large due to the relatively close proximity of these VSRs to the wind farm.

Table 11.76 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.76 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. Only the offshore wind farm site will be visible to these VSRs. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to significant adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.77 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage shown in Figure 11.39 shows the view of the wind turbines from this location. The sensitivity of these VSRs is considered high due the duration and frequency of views to the development and the degree of visibility of the development both being considered high. The magnitude of change is considered large due to the close proximity of these VSRs to the wind farm. Table 11.77 shows the resulting un-mitigated significance threshold is considered significant. It should be also noted here that VSR numbers may actually increase to this location. The evidence provided in Annex 11A shows that in other parts of the world, wind farms are generally supported. Should this wind farm be the first constructed in Hong Kong, it is reasonable to expect a degree of curiosity from the general public, hence increased visitors to this location.

VSR 18 – View from Penny’s Bay

This VSR is located at just under 15 km north of the wind farm site. The VSRs at this location are recreational and high in number.

Table 11.78 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	High
Number of VSR	High
Availability and amenity of alternative views	Medium
Duration and frequency of views to development	Medium
Degree of visibility of Development	Low
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	High

Due to the high numbers of visitors and unique nature of the recreational development at Penny’s Bay, the sensitivity of this VSR is considered to be high.

Table 1179 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	14,900 m	14,900 m
Potential blockage of view	Low	Low
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Small	Small

The magnitude of change for these VSRs is considered to be small mainly due to the long distance to the wind turbines (nearly 15 km) and low potential blockage of view.

Table 11.80 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.80 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate adverse towards the end of the construction process.

Table 11.81 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

The photomontage in Figure 11.40 shows the view of the wind turbines from Penny’s Bay. The high number of recreational VSRs at this location and its unique recreational use result in a high sensitivity. However the magnitude of change is considered small due to the long distance to the turbines. Table 11.81 shows the resulting significance threshold for these VSRs is considered to be moderate adverse.

VSR 19 - View From East Lamma Channel

These VSRs may be located anywhere within the East Lamma Channel and may be both occupational; aboard commercial vessels, or recreational aboard pleasure craft. They are generally low in number.

Table 11.82 Sensitivity / Quality

Items	Sensitivity / Quality
Value and quality of view	Medium
Number of VSR	Low
Availability and amenity of alternative views	High
Duration and frequency of views to development	Medium
Degree of visibility of Development	High
Sensitivity/Quality of VSR	Medium

The transient nature of these groups of VSRs in this area will mean the value and quality will also vary, medium is allocated as an average. The numbers of VSRs is considered low as all VSRs must be aboard marine vessels. The availability and amenity of alternative views is considered high to the transient nature of the VSRs, and the duration and frequency of views to the development is hence considered medium. The degree of visibility of the development is considered high due to the large scale of the development. The sensitivity is overall considered to be medium.

Table 11.83 Magnitude of Change

Items	Construction	Operation
Compatibility with surrounding landscape	Low	Low
Viewing Distance to Proposed Development	Variable, min 500m	Variable, min 500m
Potential blockage of view	Medium	Medium
Duration of impacts	Temporary	Permanent
Scale of development	Large	Large
Reversibility of change	Reversible	Reversible
Magnitude of change	Large	Large

The magnitude of change for these VSRs is considered to be large, mainly due to the ability of these VSRs to come into relatively close proximity to the wind farm.

Table 11.84 Significance Threshold during Construction

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.84 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during construction. The assembly and installation of the wind turbines will be for a period of approximately 9 months. During this time, the significance threshold of the construction impacts will increase from negligible at the beginning of construction, to moderate-significant adverse towards the end of the construction process. Based on the transient nature of the VSRs, variable viewing locations and relatively small viewer numbers, the significance threshold is moderate.

Table 11.85 Significance Threshold during Operation

		Sensitivity / Quality			Beneficial
		Low	Medium	High
Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate - significant impact	Significant impact	Neither beneficial nor adverse
	Intermediate	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate-significant impact
	Small	Slight impact	Slight – Moderate impact	Moderate impact	Adverse
	Negligible	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact

Table 11.85 shows the significance threshold of the wind farm during operation. The sensitivity is considered medium due to the low numbers of transient VSRs in this location. The magnitude of change is considered large due to the ability of these VSRs to see the turbines from a close proximity. As for the significance threshold during construction, the resulting significance threshold during operation is considered moderate adverse.

11.7.15 Visual Mitigation Measures

Whilst some of the significance thresholds identified in the section above are considered moderate adverse, no significant adverse impacts have been identified. Due to the large scale of the wind turbines, visual mitigation is very difficult. However, the following measures have been considered to reduce impacts.

VMM1 Site Selection A detailed site selection process has been undertaken. One of the key considerations was to select a site that would minimise the potential visual impacts associated with the Project. Section 3 provides a detailed analysis of the site selection process.

VMM2 Array Layout The array of wind turbines shown in this study is preliminary only. There is an opportunity to amend the layout of the array to reduce the number of turbines visible for the most sensitive viewpoints. It must be noted that visual impacts are only one consideration when determining the layout of the array. Changes to the array are only possible when other technical details, such as suitable sea bed, marine traffic and wind flow conditions are achievable.

VMM3 Colours Colour selection must be in accordance with guidelines imposed by CAD, however appropriate colours for the wind turbines should be selected to reduce their visibility where technically feasible.

VMM 4 Blade Rotation To create a more harmonious visual pattern the blades for all turbines should rotate in the same direction.

Figure 11.41 shows the locations of these measures and their application to each of the VSRs is shown in Table 11.86.

Table 11.86 Un-mitigated and Mitigated Impacts at the VSRs

VSR	Un-Mitigated Visual Impact		Recommended Mitigation	Mitigated Impacts
	Construction	Operation		Construction	Operation Day 1	Operation Year 10
1 Lamma Island (Hung Shing Ye beach)	Moderate	VMM 1-4	VMM 1-4	Slight	Slight	Slight
2 Lo So Shing Beach	Moderate	VMM 1-4	VMM 1-4	Slight	Slight	Slight
3 Lamma Ferry Pier	Negligible	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
4 Ferry to Cheung Chau	Slight	VMM 1-4	VMM 1-4	Slight	Slight	Slight
5 Cheung Chau	Moderate	VMM 1-4	VMM 1-4	Slight	Slight	Slight
6 Discovery Bay	Moderate	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
7 Silver Mine Bay (Miu Wo)	Moderate	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate
8 Chi Ma Wan Peninsula	Slight	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
9 Cheung Sha	Slight	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
10 Lantau Trail	Slight	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
11 The Peak	Moderate	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate
12 Queen Mary Hospital and Mount Davis	Slight	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
13 Pauline Chan Bldg HKU	Slight	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
14 Stanley Waterfront	Negligible	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
15 Wong Nai Chung gap and Violet Hill	Negligible	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
16 Ocean Park	Slight	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
17 Mt Stenhouse	Significant	VMM 1-4	VMM 1-4	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate
18 Penny’s Bay	Moderate	VMM 1,3,4	VMM 1,3,4	Slight	Slight	Slight
19 East Lamma Channel	Moderate	Nil	Nil	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate

11.7.16 Effectiveness of Visual Mitigation Measures

The application of the visual mitigation measures will not reduce the significance threshold of the identified visual impacts for most of the VSRs. This is reflected in the photomontages showing the development at Day 1 of operation and Year 10 of operation. Table 11.86 shows that for VSRs 1, 2, 5, and 17 however, improvements to the array layout will result in reductions to the significance threshold. The detailed studies undertaken in the Site Selection study (refer Section 3) have already reduced the potential visual impacts associated with the Project. The adoption of the other visual mitigation measures will further contribute to the reduction of the severity of these impacts.

11.7.17 Residual Visual Impact Summary

As described in Section 11.7.16 above, the visual mitigation measures will not reduce the significance thresholds of many of the impacts. Therefore for many VSRs, the significance thresholds will be the same throughout construction, operation and following the application of the VMMs.

Negligible Impacts.

There will be negligible residual visual impacts from VSR3 Lamma Ferry Pier, VSR 14 Stanley Waterfront and VSR 15 Wong Nai Chung Gap and Violet Hill.

Slight Impacts

There will be slight residual visual impacts from VSR1 Lamma Island (Hung Shing Ye beach), VSR2 Lo So Shing Beach, VSR4 Ferry to Cheung Chau, VSR 5 Cheung Chau, VSR6 Discovery Bay, VSR 8 Chi Ma Wan Peninsula, VSR 9 Cheung Sha, VSR 10 Lantau Trail, VSR 12 Queen Mary Hospital and Mount Davis, VSR 13 Pok Fu Lam - Pauline Chan Building at HKU, VSR16 Ocean Park, and VSR 18 Penny’s Bay.

Moderate Impacts

Moderate residual visual impacts have been identified at VSR7 Silver Mine Bay (Miu Wo) VSR11 The Peak, VSR 17 Mt Stenhouse and VSR 19 East Lamma Channel.

No significant residual visual impacts have been identified.

As discussed in Section 11.2, the viewshed analysis is based on a maximum height of 136m while the photomontages have been prepared based on the height of 125m as this would represent the case of having the highest numbers of wind turbine installed within the site boundary and hence represent the worst scenario from visual impact point of view. Nevertheless, it should also be noted that the option of height 125m is the most likely turbine option to be selected. This potential increase in height of 11m will not be perceptible to any VSRs with the only possible exception being VSRs at Mt Stenhouse. However, this small increase in height will not increase the significance threshold of any of the visual impacts to these VSRs.

11.7.18 Night Lighting and Glare

The above analysis examined the visual impacts of the proposal during daylight hours. Detailed lighting specifications are not available at this preliminary design stage, however, a preliminary assessment can be made based on similar developments.

The degree to which night lighting has an impact on the surrounding areas is dependent on the following criteria:

1. The spacing, intensity and operation hours of the source lighting;

2. The distance between the source lighting and the VSR;

3. The surrounding ambient lighting conditions of the VSR; and

4. The surrounding lighting conditions of the source.

Source Lighting

The aviation navigation lighting of the wind turbines will generally comprise the following:

For those turbines at the periphery of the wind farm, the highest practical point and an intermediate point on the supporting tower should be lighted in low intensity steady red lights.

Whilst the detailed lighting requirements will be different from the turbines, the wind monitoring mast will have a small number of lights in accordance with CAD requirements.

For all other turbines only the highest practical point on the supporting tower should be lighted in low intensity steady red light.

For marine lighting, each corner of the wind farm development, and mid-way along each side of the wind farm additional lights are required. The corner lights will be yellow flashing lights (5 second interval) visible for 5 nautical miles, located at least 12 m above HAT, with radar reflectors situated beside them. The intermediate lights will flash at 2.5 seconds and will be visible for 2 nautical miles. There will need to be two lights on each lit turbine so that the light is visible through 360° (refer Section 5).

Distances between Source Lighting and the VSRs

As described in the preceding sections of this report, most of the VSRs will be located a significant distance away from the wind farm site, the closest VSR’s being located on Lamma and Cheung Chau both being over 5 kilometres away.

Surrounding Ambient Light of the VSR

Night lighting from the source is more highly visible when one is observing in darkness. As the surrounding ambient light increases, the visibility of distant objects reduces. This includes viewers in restaurants, near streetlights, or inside illuminated homes. The recreational VSRs will be viewing the wind farm in areas of generally low ambient light, however the numbers of recreational VSRs viewing the wind farm at night will be very low. All of the other VSRs will be generally viewing the wind farm from areas with ambient light.

Surrounding Lighting Conditions of the Source

There are numerous light sources in the areas surrounding the wind farm. These include the existing Power Station on Lamma Island, the marine traffic both transient and berthed and the residential areas on the surrounding islands.

Lighting Impact Summary

Whilst there will be an increase in the numbers of lighting sources in the waters south of Lamma Island, these light sources will generally be of low intensity. Given the presence of the other light sources and the distances to the VSRs, the night lighting and glare impacts are considered acceptable.

11.8 Conclusions

A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment has been undertaken for the South West Lamma site. The landscape impacts where identified and some mitigation measures proposed. The residual landscape impacts are:

1. There will be negligible residual construction impacts on LCAs 2 Inshore Waters Landscape and LCA 4 Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape.

2. There will be slight un-mitigated construction impacts LCA 3 Industrial Urban Landscape. Approximately 2.78ha of this LCA will be affected during construction, however this area will be fully mitigated with the adoption of the mitigation measures proposed resulting in a negligible residual construction impact.

3. There will be moderate adverse residual construction impacts on LCA1 Offshore Waters Landscape. Approximately 700ha of this LCA will be lost and can not be mitigated.

4. There will be negligible residual operational impacts on LCAs 2 Inshore Waters Landscape, 3 Industrial Urban Landscape and 4 Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape. There will be moderate adverse residual operational impacts on LCA1 Offshore Waters Landscape.

5. There will be negligible residual construction and operation impacts on the following LRs:

· LR 2 Man made rocky sea-wall. Approximately 0.001ha of this LR will be lost during construction; however this will be fully mitigated with the adoption of the mitigation measures proposed.

· LR 3 Industrial Area. Approximately 0.02ha of this LR will be lost during construction; however this will be fully mitigated with the adoption of the mitigation measures proposed.

· LR 4 Soft Landscape areas. Approximately 0.001ha of this LR will be lost during construction; however this will be fully mitigated with the adoption of the mitigation measures proposed.

· LR 5 Mixed Shrubland. There will be no impacts on this LR.

· LR 6 Pond. There will be no impacts on this LR.

There will be slight residual construction and operation impacts on LR1 Seascape as 0.16ha will be lost and can not be mitigated.

A Visual Impact Assessment was undertaken with several conservative assumptions:

1. Whilst the review of Hong Kong’s climatic conditions shows that they will reduce the visibility of the wind farm, clear visibility has been assumed;

2. Based on the analysis of the parameters of human vision, the more conservative limit of view of 15.5km has been adopted, and;

3. Intervening vegetation and buildings have not been considered during the identification of VSRs.

Nineteen VSRs were identified and assessed based on their sensitivity and magnitude of change. Whilst visual mitigation of the wind turbine structures is difficult, four VMM’s were proposed, however the ability of these mitigation in reducing the significance threshold of the impacts is limited. The residual impacts identified were as follows:

1. There will be negligible residual visual impacts from VSR3 Lamma Ferry Pier, VSR 14 Stanley Waterfront and VSR 15 Wong Nai Chung Gap and Violet Hill.

2. There will be slight residual visual impacts from VSR1 Lamma Island (Hung Shing Ye beach), VSR2 Lo So Shing Beach, VSR4 Ferry to Cheung Chau, VSR 5 Cheung Chau, VSR6 Discovery Bay, VSR 8 Chi Ma Wan Peninsula, VSR 9 Cheung Sha, VSR 10 Lantau Trail, VSR 12 Queen Mary Hospital and Mount Davis, VSR 13 Pok Fu Lam - Pauline Chan Building at HKU, VSR16 Ocean Park, and VSR 18 Penny’s Bay.

3. Moderate residual visual impacts have been identified at VSR7 Silvermine Bay (Mui Wo), VSR11 The Peak, VSR 17 Mt Stenhouse and VSR 19 East Lamma Channel.

Four Visual Mitigation Measures are proposed that will reduce the severity of these visual impacts.

According to Annex 10 of the Technical Memorandum on the Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) the Landscape and Visual Impacts are considered acceptable with mitigation.

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([1]) ‘The Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong’ 2005, Planning Department, The Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

[2] (Human Dimension & Interior Space – A Source Book of Design Reference Standards, Julius Panero and Martin Zelnik, The Architectural Press Ltd. London, 1979).

[3] ‘Vestas’ Construction and Installation document

[4] ‘Vestas’ Construction and Installation document