5 Ecological Impact

5.1 Introduction

This section presents the ecological impacts along the main alignment of Shatin to Central Link Tai Wai to Hung Hom Section SCL (TAM - HUH) and the associated off-sites works areas. Most of the off-site works areas including Ma On Shan, Shek Mun and Pak Tin are used as temporary site offices and storage works areas and would not involve any site formation work. The barging facility at Kai Tak Runway and magazine site at Tseung Kwan O Area 137 which would require some engineering work. Shared sites with other Projects include the barging facility at Freight Pier.

Baseline ecological conditions presented in this section are derived from literature reviews and ecological field surveys conducted for the SCL (TAW – HUH) (the Project Site) and areas within 500m of the proposed development (the Study Area). The ecological importance of species and habitats within the Study Area have been identified and assessed. Any potential ecological impacts were identified with the scale and severity of their impacts evaluated. Mitigation proposals have been recommended, where appropriate. Requirements for environmental monitoring and audit have also been discussed.

The ecological impact assessment has been conducted in accordance with the requirements of Annexes 8 and 16 of the TM-EIAO and Clause 3.4.4 of the EIA Study Brief.

5.2 Environmental Legislation, Standards and Guidelines

The relevant legislation and associated guidelines related to ecological assessment include:

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

· Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170);

· Country Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208) and its subsidiary legislation;

· Marine Parks Ordinance (Cap. 476);

· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) and the associated TM, and;

· Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) and its subsidiary legislation.

This assessment also makes reference to the following guidelines and standards:

· Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines (HKPSG) Chapter 10, "Conservation";

· PELB Technical Circular 1/97 / Works Branch Technical Circular 4/97,"Guidelines for Implementing the Policy on Off-site Ecological Mitigation Measures";

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2002 - Some Observations on Ecological Assessment from the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance Perspective;

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2002 – Ecological Baseline Survey for Ecological Assessment;

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 10/2004 – Methodologies for Terrestrial and Freshwater Ecological Baseline Surveys; and

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 11/2004 – Methodologies for Marine Ecological Baseline Surveys.

Other international conventions and guidelines that are relevant to this study include the following:

· Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora ("CITES"). This Convention regulates international trade in animal and plant species considered to be at risk from such trade. Their trade is subject to permits or certificates of origin. Hong Kong's obligations under this Convention are enforced via the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).

· IUCN - The World Conservation Union maintains, through its Species Survival Commission, a “Redlist” of globally threatened species of wild plants and animals (see http://www.iucnredlist.org/static/introduction).

· United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. This convention requires parties to regulate or manage biological resources important for the conservation of biological diversity whether within or outside protected areas, with a view to ensuring their conservation and sustainable use. It also requires parties to promote the protection of ecosystems, natural habitats and the maintenance of viable populations of species in natural surroundings. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity on 5^th January 1993. The HKSAR Government has stated that it is "committed to meeting the environmental objectives" of the Convention (PELB1996).

5.3 Survey Methodology

5.3.1 Background

Ecological surveys have been conducted between February 2009 and June 2009 for the main SCL alignment, to cover both the wet and dry seasons. Off-site areas were surveyed in the period March 2009-July 2009 with additional data from surveys at DHS (former Tai Hom Village) in December 2008 and November 2009 included. Surveys were conducted for habitats, vegetation, mammals, birds, herpetofauna, dragonflies, butterflies and fish and stream invertebrates. Verification visits were also conducted in September and October 2010.

5.3.2 Areas along the Main Alignment

Due to the nature of the alignment, most of the 11km route will be underground. Accordingly, the focus of survey effort was made in those areas of the alignment where above ground works are proposed to take place, i.e. Tai Wai, Hin Keng, Ma Chai Hang, EA/EEA at Wong Tai Sin, DIH and DHS, Kai Tak, To Kwa Wan, EEP at Tam Kung Road, Ma Tau Wai, Ho Man Tin and Hung Hom. The above ground works sites were surveyed and ground-truthed during both dry and wet seasons. Considering their proximity, the DHS which will occupy the land of the former Tai Hom Village, is also included in those works that are along the main alignment.

5.3.2.1 Tai Wai to Hin Keng Portal

Surveys to assess the ecological values of the existing habitats for wildlife were conducted between February and June 2009. Surveys were conducted for habitats and vegetation along with the following faunal groups; mammals, birds, herpetofauna, dragonflies and butterflies. Specific surveys of aquatic fauna within Tei Lung Hau Stream were also conducted. Two other streams and a catchwater in the survey area, away from Hin Keng Portal, were also surveyed.

Baseline Surveys and Evaluation

A desktop literature review has been conducted for the Project and baseline ecological condition of the key ecological sites were determined, with emphasis on evaluating the ecological values of these sites to wildlife, where above ground structure of the alignment were proposed. These ecological surveys of at least 5 months were commenced in February 2009 covering both dry and wet seasons. Details of the survey schedule are summarised in Table 5.1.

Habitat Mapping and Vegetation Surveys

Habitat maps were prepared for areas within 500m of the proposed alignment for sections above ground and for the temporary work areas. Reference was made to recent aerial photographs (2009) followed by local ground-truthing on areas along the alignment and other areas likely to be affected by the Project, to confirm habitat types and conditions within the Study Area, with photographs of each habitat type to be taken during the surveys.

A habitat and vegetation survey was conducted across wet and dry seasons to record the dominant and notable plant species, their status in Hong Kong and relative abundance. Vegetation surveys with non-quantitative estimate of relative abundance for plants within the Project Areas were conducted and additional surveys in areas with close proximity to the Project Areas and would potentially receive direct and/or indirect impacts were also carried out. Results of tree surveys in the Project Areas were used to supplement the plant list and evaluation of the botanical resources in the Areas.

Identification of flora species and status in Hong Kong was made with reference to Xing et al. (2000).

Bird Surveys

Morning bird surveys, by way of walked transects (as per EIAO Guidance Note No. 10/2004) and these were conducted twice per wet and dry season. All birds seen or heard either side of the transect were recorded. These transects can be seen on Figure 5.9.1. Additional bird species were added to the full list following any incidental observations made on other surveys and/ or site visits. In addition, night-time surveys were conducted once per dry season and twice per wet season. Nomenclature follows Carey et al. (2001).

Mammal Surveys

Surveys for the presence of mammals were conducted alongside other surveys for terrestrial fauna and supplemented by literature review. These transects can be seen on Figure 5.9.1. These surveys focused on finding field signs such as droppings, footprints, diggings or burrows of larger terrestrial mammals as well as direct observations; identifications were made as accurately as possible from the field signs encountered. Possible bat roost sites (including Chinese Fan Palms Livistona chinensis potentially used by Short-nosed Fruit Bats Cynopterus sphinx) were searched for and assessed. Surveys were conducted twice per wet and dry seasons. In addition, night-time surveys were conducted once per dry season and twice per wet season.

Herpetofauna Surveys

Reptile and amphibian surveys were conducted at least twice per wet and dry season along the same transects as for other terrestrial fauna surveys. These transects can be seen on Figure 5.9.1. During surveys careful searches of appropriate microhabitats and refugia for reptiles were undertaken and all reptiles observed were identified and counted. In addition to this active searching, observations of exposed, basking or foraging reptiles at a greater distance from the fixed transect were also recorded. Streams within the Study Area, in the immediate vicinity of the Project Site, were searched for amphibians, and all species seen and heard vocalising were recorded. As several species of herpetofauna are nocturnal, night-time surveys were also undertaken at targeted sites, namely streams and other microhabitats with potential for herpetofauna, to check for reptiles and vocalising amphibians, once in late dry season and twice per wet season. Additional herpetofauna species were added to the full list following any incidental observations made on other surveys and/or site visits. Nomenclature follows Karsen et al. (1998) for reptiles and Chan et al. (2005b) for amphibians.

Dragonfly and butterfly surveys

Dragonfly and butterfly surveys were conducted along transects (See Figure 5.9.1) covering habitats within the Study Area focusing on habitats with suitable conditions for these groups, in particular streams and woodland. During surveys all dragonflies and butterflies seen were identified and counted as accurately as possible. Surveys were conducted at least twice per wet and dry season in areas of representative habitats within the Study Area, in particular steams and woodland, with particular focus on the areas in the vicinity of Hin Keng portal. Additional species were added to the full list following any incidental observations made on other surveys and/or site visits. Nomenclature follows Wilson (2004) for dragonflies and Lo & Hui (2004) for butterflies.

Stream Surveys

Streams of potentially higher ecological value were identified during initial reconnaissance site visit in October 2008 and from a review of the relevant literature. These streams (Tei Lung Hau and a stream close to Ka Tin Court at Hin Keng) were surveyed to determine fish species present and aquatic invertebrate diversity. Surveys were conducted at least twice per wet and dry season along the streams in vicinity of the Hin Keng portal. Dip and sweep netting of the streams, along with individual stone sampling were conducted where depth of water and substrate allowed (as per EIAO Guidance Note 10/2004). Nocturnal searches were carried out using a high power torch. Other streams within the Study Area included Keng Hau Road Stream and Lion Rock Country Park catchwater, are located at significant distance from the proposed works sites. These were also surveyed.

5.3.2.2 Ma Chai Hang to Hung Hom

Flora and Fauna Assessment Surveys

Desk-top studies including literature reviews, analysis of aerial photographs and maps was undertaken for a provisional assessment of the sites characteristics and ecological value. This suggested that the sites are of lower or limited ecological values, which would not have major ecological limitations in these areas. Nevertheless, Flora and Fauna Assessment Surveys were conducted along the alignment to identify any significant ecological sensitive receivers that could not be accounted for during desk-top studies. The above-ground work areas are located in highly disturbed urban locations. The faunal aspect of each survey covered the major faunal groups i.e. mammals, birds, herpetofauna, butterflies and dragonflies. Species of conservation interest present were identified and highlighted. The surveys were conducted during both dry and wet seasons. Should any particular species group or habitats of conservation interest be identified at the above-ground works sites, additional surveys would be designed to target these areas. The survey schedule for the above ground sites along the SCL main alignment are shown in the Table 5.1 below. Additional surveys have also been conducted at former Tai Hom Village in December 2008 and November 2009 to supplement for the 5-month survey period.

Table 5.1: Survey schedule for above ground sites along SCL main alignment

Sites	Type of survey	Dry Season		Wet Season
		Feb 09	Mar 09	Apr 09	May 09	June 09
Tai Wai to Hin Keng viaduct and Hin Keng portal (Figures 5.1.1 and 5.1.2)	Habitat Mapping	√	√	√		√
	Botanical Surveys	√	√	√	√
	Mammal Surveys	√	√	√		√
	Bird Surveys	√	√	√		√
	Herpetological Surveys	√	√	√	√	√
	Night time Surveys (Mammal, Bird and Herpetological survey)		√	√	√
	Dragonfly and Butterfly Surveys	√	√	√	√	√
	Stream Surveys	√	√	√	√	√
DHS (former Tai Hom Village) ^[1] (Figure 5.2.1)	Review of Tree Survey Flora and Fauna Surveys		√	√		√
	Night time survey			√
Above-ground sites along remainder of alignment between Diamond Hill and Hung Hom (Figures 5.1.3 to 5.1.11)	Flora and Fauna Surveys		√			√

Notes:

[1] Additional flora and fauna surveys have been conducted in December 2008 and November 2009, outside 5-month survey schedule, for DHS (former Tai Hom Village).

[2] Verification visits have been conducted to all above-ground sites in September and October 2010 to confirm habitats and ecological status of each area was the same, compared with surveys conducted between February and June 2009.

5.3.3 Off-site Works Areas

As discussed in Section 3, all the at-grade temporary works sites along the alignment from Tai Wai to Hung Hom have been identified (see Figures 3.2.1 to 3.2.6). Other than these works sites and works areas, some off-site areas as shown in Figures 3.3.1 to 3.3.6 are also required. These off-site works areas are summarised in Table 5.2 below:

Table 5.2: Off-site works areas

Off-Site Works Area	Proposed Uses
Kai Tak Runway	Barging activities (sediment removal is required).
Freight Pier at Hung Hom	Barging activities (sediment removal not required). Shared use with SCL (MKE-HUH) and KTE
TKO Area 137	Magazine site. Shared use with KTE
Ma On Shan (Heng On and Tai Shui Hang)	· Contractor site office Storage of materials and equipment
Shek Mun (in Shatin)	· Contractor site office Storage of construction materials and equipments
Pak Tin	Temporary storage area

As discussed in Section 3.4.5, other than the sediment removal works for the barging facility at Kai Tak Runway, all the off-site works sites areas have been previously employed as temporary car parks or works areas under other infrastructure projects. No site formation works would be required to support the use of these off-site temporary works sites and works areas for the SCL (TAW-HUH).

5.3.3.1 Barging Facilities at Kai Tak and Magazine Site at TKO Area 137

Flora and Fauna Assessment Surveys

Flora and Fauna Assessment Surveys were conducted at the barging facility at Kai Tak Runway and the magazine site at TKO Area 137.

Based on desk-top studies, by way of literature review and analysis of aerial photographs and maps and complimented by local knowledge; these areas were located in highly urbanised areas subject to much human disturbance with lower/ limited ecological value and as such, surveys at these sites were designed to validate the ecological status of the sites. Flora and Fauna Assessment Surveys were conducted along the alignment to identify any significant ecological sensitive receivers that could not be accounted for during desk-top studies.

Site visits to each site were made by both faunal ecologist and botanist in order to make an assessment of the habitats present within these work sites and adjacent areas, and to highlight any species of conservation interest present. The faunal aspect of each survey covered each of the major faunal groups i.e. mammals, birds, herpetofauna, butterflies and dragonflies, with species seen within the project area recorded and enumerated where appropriate.

Literature review and desktop studies of the Kai Tak Runaway barging facility and TKO Area 137 works sites revealed limited habitats present. For Kai Tak Runway site, there was potential for habitats present to be utilized by migratory birds and two surveys were conducted during the spring migration period, April and May 2009, for each site. Other main faunal groups including mammals, birds, herpetofauna, butterflies and dragonflies were also surveyed. For the TKO Area 137, two survey visits were conducted in June and July 2009 to check for presence of any nesting birds.

Marine: Intertidal/ Subtidal/ Benthic Survey –Barging Facilitie at Kai Tak Runway and Freight Pier at Hung Hom

Literature review has been conducted for species recorded at/ near the Kai Tak Runway Barging facility Project Area where recent EIA Studies have conducted Marine Surveys (Maunsell AECOM 2007a, 2008). The recent data obtained from these studies was used to assess the marine environment for the Kai Tak Runway Barging facility. For the Freight Pier at Hung Hom, reference has been made based on the concurrent studies for the EIA of SCL (MKK-HUH and approved EIA of Express Rail Link (Hong Kong Section) along with other approved EIA schemes in Victoria Harbour and West Kowloon. Following the extensive literature review (see Section 5.5.3.4), it was considered that there were no information gaps and that detailed marine surveys were not required. However walkover visits to the site were conducted in October 2010 to confirm the current land use and habitat types present. The survey schedule for studies of the off-site works sites can be seen in the Table 5.3 below.

Table 5.3: Survey schedule/ literature review for off-site works site

Site	Type of Survey	Mar 09	Apr 09	May 09	Jun 09	Jul 09
Kai Tak Runway^[1]	Flora and Fauna Surveys ^[1]		√	√
	Marine Survey – Literature Review on the recently approved EIA for Kai Tak Development ^[2]
Tseung Kwan O Area 137^[3]	Flora and Fauna Surveys				√	√
Freight Pier at Hung Hom^[4]	Walkover Surveys	October 2010

Notes:

[1] Verification visits have been conducted at Kai Tak in September and October 2010 to confirm habitats and ecological status of each area was the same, compared with surveys conducted in April and May 2009. Intertidal surveys of the proposed barging point were also conducted.

[2] Dive surveys for coral were conducted in October 2010.

[3] Verification visits have been conducted at TKO Area 137 in October 2010 to confirm habitats and ecological status of the site was the same, compared with surveys carried out in June and July 2009.

[4] Walkover surveys for Freight Pier

5.3.3.2 Storage and Office Area

Since the storage and office areas at Ma On Shan, Shek Mun and Pak Tin are urban/ residential land and have been previously used by other infrastructure projects already with no site formation works or increase in footprint of these areas under this Project, it is considered not necessary to conduct ecological surveys at these sites. Site visits to each of these areas have been conducted to confirm the status of each site.

5.3.4 Species of Conservation Importance

The assessment of whether species are considered to be of conservation importance was based upon criteria provided by BirdLife International (2001 and web updates), IUCN Species Survival Commission (2009) and Fellowes et al. (2002) and if any species are protected by local or regional legislation.

5.4 Assessment Area

5.4.1 Concurrent Projects in the vicinity

The following projects have recently been completed, are nearing completion, underway or planned within or in the vicinity of the subject site:

· Shatin to Central Link - Mong Kok East to Hung Hom Section (SCL (MKK – HUH));

· Shatin to Central Link - Hung Hom to Admiralty Section (SCL (HUH – ADM));

· Central Kowloon Route (CKR);

· Widening of Gascoigne Road;

· Kai Tak Development (KTD);

· Kwun Tong Line Extension (KTE);

· HKPU Student Hostel (Phase 3) Development at Ex-Valley Road Site;

· Ex-San Po Kong Flatted Factory;

· Tsz Wan Shan Pedestrian Link;

· Covered Walkway at Kai Tak;

· Comprehensive Development Area (CDA) at Diamond Hill; and

· Submarine Gas Pipelines

· In-situ Reprovisioning of Sha Tin Water Treatment Works – South Works – Designs and Construction

Detailed descriptions of the above infrastructural developments are discussed in Section 1.7. The ecological implications of each of these projects are separately considered. The interaction between these projects and the subject site proposal are also assessed, where possible.

Cumulative Impact

The combination of the above infrastructural developments will not have a significant ecological impact of the largely urban area of Kowloon in which most of these projects are located.

SCL (MKK - HUH): Much of the realignment work of the project will be in urban locations and will be built underground and the impacts to ecology are anticipated to be minimal. No ecological impacts are anticipated during operation of the proposed railway.

SCL (HUH – ADM): Much of the realignment work of the project will be in urban locations and will be built underground and the impacts to ecology are anticipated to be minimal. No ecological impacts are anticipated during operation of the proposed railway.

CKR and Widening of Gascoigne Road: The projects are not inside any recognized site of conservation importance. They do not encroach on or affect important habitats and there are unlikely to be any species of conservation importance present. Ecological impacts during construction and operation will therefore be minimal.

KTD: The existing surrounding area is highly urbanised, supporting a dense population and industrial activities. For the Project site, it is a disused airport and is currently a deserted flat/open area with many temporary uses including construction/stockpiling sites and open car parks. There is little vegetation present, comprising amenity planting or grassed areas. The quality of both fresh and marine water bodies is poor as a result of sewage and industrial pollution at present. The habitats in general are of low ecological value.

KTE: The project will be constructed in a well-developed urban environment and hence adverse ecological impacts are not anticipated. No ecological impacts are anticipated during railway operation.

HKPU Student Hostel (Phase 3) Development at Ex-Valley Road Site, Ex-San Po Kong Flatted Factory, Tsz Wan Shan Pedestrian Link, Covered Walkway at Kai Tak, Submarine Gas Pipelines: The projects will be constructed in a well-developed urban environment and hence adverse ecological impacts are not anticipated. No ecological impacts are anticipated during operation.

Comprehensive Development Area (CDA) at Diamond Hill: the development will be constructed above the DHS, and its ecological impact will be assessed under DHS in the report.

In-situ Reprovisioning of Sha Tin Water Treatment Works – South Works – Designs and Construction: As discussed in Section 1.7.12, its Project Proponent has submitted a Project Profile to EPD and EPD has issued an EIA Study Brief. According to its Project Profile, the Project Proponent would minimise the number of trees that may be affected where necessary, implementing compensatory planting, and the plan would be agreed with relevant authority. All these recommendations would be clearly documented in their EIA report yet to be submitted, which would need to consider all committed projects. Details of construction works for this Project are yet to be developed. Nevertheless, the reprovisioning works will not encroach into the works sites for SCL (TAW-HUH) and hence any cumulative ecological impacts are not anticipated to be significant.

5.4.2 Avoidance of Sites of Conservation Importance

Despite the proximity of several of the Project Sites to the ecologically-important Lion Rock and Clearwater Bay Country Parks, the proposed construction methodology will avoid any direct impacts to this ecologically sensitive area.

Lion Rock Country Park

Lion Rock Country Park, occupying an area of 557ha, is a narrow mountain range stretching east to west, separating Kowloon from the Sha Tin area. It is made up of a mosaic of wildlife rich habitats including nature secondary woodland, streams, and reservoirs. Lion Rock Park borders Kam Shan Country Park to the west by a boundary line on Tai Po Road, and commands a total area of 557ha. The southern slopes are abrupt with thin vegetation. By contrast, the northern slopes are nourished by abundant streams, which in turn give rise to flourishing flora. The northern slopes are extremely rich in flora. With a good distribution of river valleys and waterways, this natural terrain is superb habitat for a wide range of wildlife. (AFCD 2009). A small area of Lion Rock Country Park is within the southern limit of the Tai Wai - Hin Keng Study Area. However, no construction or operational work for this Project is proposed to take place within the boundaries of the Country Park.

Clearwater Bay Country Park

The 615ha Clearwater Bay Country Park takes in a wide rugged terrain in the south-eastern New Territories. The Clearwater Bay peninsula is extremely rich in flora. Most locally common bird species can be found here and the diverse and abundant flora provide suitable habitat and food sources for a wide range of butterfly species (AFCD 2009). This Country Park is within the Study Area for the proposed magazine site at TKO Area 137. No construction or operational work for this Project is proposed to take place within the boundaries of the Country Park.

Tei Lung Hau Stream

The ecological values of the natural stream and secondary woodland in Tai Wai have been one of the important considerations for designing the vertical alignment and the associated construction methodology for the portal in Tai Wai. In endeavour to preserve these habitats, the vertical alignment near the portal has been lowered as much as practicable such that all the engineering works would not encroach into the country park boundary, the entire Tei Lung Hau Stream and the secondary woodland near the portal. The tunnel, to be constructed in the form of mined tunnelling, would only pass underneath the streams with adequate vertical separation of about 6m. Canopy tubes will be installed from the shaft structure and extend the full width of the stream. These canopy tubes with sieves along its length will be grouted and form a stable and low permeable ‘umbrella’ for further mining works to be carried out in stages. The canopy tubes beneath the stream area are within Completely Decomposed Granite (CDG) stratum, which is effective in terms of minimizing the draw down of water table. There will be no construction work to the south of the Tei Lung Hau Stream near HIK, where the secondary woodland is located (see Figure 3.1A).

5.5 Description of Environment

5.5.1 Project Site and Study Area

The criteria and guidelines for evaluating and assessing ecological impacts as stated in Annexes 8 and 16 of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (TM-EIAO) have been followed. The Project will avoid and minimize impacts on ecological sensitive areas, and identify and quantify as far as possible the potential ecological impact to the natural environment; from the construction and operation of the project.

The Project Sites occupy a linear corridor from Tai Wai to Hung Hom Station and a range of sites across the central New Territories and Kowloon area. Principle land use within the Project Sites is dominated by habitats with limited value such as urban and residential land, plantation, wasteground and grassland. Lion Rock Country Park is located within the Study Area of SCL alignment, though there will be no works conducted within this area. The Country Park is located approximately 230 m away from the closest works site.

The Study Area (SA), as stipulated in the EIA Study Brief, covers a 500m distance from the site boundary of the works site. Figures 5.1.1 to 5.1.11 show these habitat plans, work boundaries and study areas for the SCL alignment and Figures 5.3.1, 5.3.2, 5.4.1, 5.5.1, 5.6.1, 5.7.1, 5.7.2, 5.8.1 and 5.8.2 show the off-site works areas.

5.5.2 Prevailing Ecological Conditions along Alignment

5.5.2.1 Tai Wai to Hin Keng Portal

Habitats and Vegetation

Much of the Study Area is of dominated by urban and residential areas composed of a network of road and rail infrastructure and several residential and commercial estates. Some parks and areas of recreation also exist. Plantation woodland dominates slopes to the west of the Study Area. Areas of potentially higher ecological value occur mainly on the slopes of the Hin Keng area, to the south of the Study Area, where secondary woodland and semi-natural hillstreams are present. Table 5.4 shows the habitat types within the Study Area. Habitat maps for proposed above ground structures along alignment and locations of species of conservation importance recorded during the surveys are shown in Figures 5.1.1 – 5.1.2 and Figure 5.9.1. The following paragraphs give an overview of habitats types and botanical species present in the Study Area. List of botanical species recorded within the Study Area and representative photographs of habitat types and are provided in Appendix 5.1 and Appendix 5.9 and respectively.

Table 5.4: Habitats present within Study Area of Tai Wai to Hin Keng Portal

Habitat	Within proposed viaduct and portal works site (ha)	500m from Structures, Area (ha)
Channelised Streams	-	0.84
Natural Streams	-	0.48
Plantation	1.94	22.81
Secondary Woodland	-	78.94
Urban/ Residential Area	3.19	94.86
Total	5.13	197.93

Habitat
Natural Streams	Two natural streams occur in the vicinity of the Hin Keng Portal; one at Tei Lung Hau and the other behind Ka Tin Court are natural. Both are rocky bottomed hillstreams with rich riparian vegetation in their middle and upper sections. The lower sections of both streams are channelized and culverted and are moderately disturbed, particularly at Tei Lung Hau (where approximately 40m of the stream has been channelised before it enters the culvert that passes under the road of Hin Keng estate) where local residents were observed during most of the survey visits washing clothes. The midstream and upper sections are a largely natural boulder stream, with a mixture of cascades, pools and sandbanks with good riparian vegetation. The clear stream supports ferns and most important, colonies of a restricted fern Equisetum debile along the streamside. A large colony and several smaller patches of this species were found along the stream bank.
Secondary Woodland	Secondary woodland is located on hillsides within the Study Area. This secondary woodland is dominated by common woodland species such as Machilus spp. as overstorey, with understorey rich with common plants including Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia and Psychotria asiatica. on slope to the east of Tei Lung Hau Stream close to the proposed Hin Keng Portal an area of secondary woodland with good vegetation coverage and diversity is dominated by Litsea cubeba, Machilus spp. and Canthium dicoccum as overstorey Secondary woodland at Tei Lung Hau also supports diverse floristic composition. This woodland is located to the south of the proposed Hin Keng Portal and close to a natural watercourse that supports a restricted fern Equisetum debile. This woodland supports a close and mature complex structure. Its overstorey is dominated by common woodland trees such as Litsea cubeba, Canthium dicoccum and Mallotus paniculatus. Its also supports a rich understorey with similar composition as recorded in other secondary woodland in the Study Area.
Plantation	Plantations of various sizes were found throughout the Study Area, usually on roadsides and as ornamental planting within urban parks. The slopes in the west of the Study Area below the Tai Po Road and area at the proposed Hin Keng portal are dominated by this habitat type. Most stands along the proposed alignment and its associated development have been planted with exotic species including Acacia confusa, Casuarina equisetifolia, Albizia lebbeck, Eucalyptus citriodora and Leucaena leucocephala. A low diversity of native plants, such as trees Macaranga tanarius, Ficus hispida, Ficus microcarpa and Celtis sinensis and shrubs Gordonia axillaris, Ligustrum sinensis and Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia, was often recorded in some of the older plantation stands on the roadside engineered slopes. The hillside plantation stands below Tai Po Road and at and around the proposed Hin Keng portal are more mature and could support higher diversity of plants. This plantations support a diverse but common floristic composition in understorey. However, mature plantation stands with rich understory are limited along the proposed rail alignment and works site. Plantation within the locality of the proposed Hin Keng portal and its vicinity was predominantly Eucalyptus citriodora and a number of mature native tree species such as Aporusa dioica, Litsea cubeba and Machilus pauhoi were also recorded in lower number in the overstorey. Its understorey is less diverse than the secondary woodland floristically, but common shrubs/ small trees (such as Macaranga tanarius, Ficus hispida, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia and Alangium chinense) and trees (such as Schefflera heptaphylla, Mallotus paniculatus and Bombax ceiba) are naturally established. The adjacent secondary woodland in Tei Lung Hau has provided abundant seed sources for enriching the fringe of this plantation stands at the proposed Hin Keng portal. In addition, a few saplings of a protected species Aquilaria sinensis were recorded at the locality of the proposed Hin Keng portal and its vicinity. It is regarded as a common species found in lowland forest and fung shui woods (Xing et al. 2000), but it protected under Cap. 586. Cibotium barometz is scheduled under Cap. 586 and individuals were found in the Secondary Woodland outside the Hin Keng site. It is a common species in this habitat in Hong Kong. Pavetta hongkongensis is listed under Cap. 96 though it is locally common in lowland forest and fung shui woods; and though it was not recorded during current surveys, there is anecdotal evidence of this species occurring in suitable habitats in the wider study area, outside the proposed development footprint.
Urban/ Residential Area	Much of the Study area for this section is composed of Urban/ Residential Area, being highly urbanised and subject to regular human and vehicular disturbance. Much of the area is occupied by residential developments, roads, rail and associated facilities, along with urban parks and shopping centres.

Mammals

Three species of non-flying mammal, Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta, Pallas Squirrels Callosciurus erythraeus and East Asian Porcupine Hystrix brachyura, were recorded within the Study Area, in the vicinity of the proposed Hin Keng portal and associated slope stabilisation works. Two bat species were seen, though only one positively identified. Japanese Pipistrelle Pipistrellus abramus were observed foraging around Ka Tin Court during night time surveys.

Rhesus Macaques were regularly seen foraging and loafing around the bins at Ka Tin Court and the adjacent plantation trees, up to 40 individuals were seen at one time. These are non-native, believed to have derived from releases in the early 20^th Century and are common in this part of central Hong Kong particularly in the areas around Kowloon Reservoirs (Shek 2006). Signage in the Hin Keng area warns the public against feeding these monkeys.

Pallas’s Squirrels were seen in the more mature plantation woodland close to Hin Keng portal. This species is also an introduced species to Hong Kong (Shek 2006).

Evidence of East Asian Porcupine in the Study Area was by way of discarded quills and dung heaps on the slopes of the secondary woodland above Tei Lung Hau Stream, in the vicinity of the slope stabilization works. The secondary woodland and stream, however, will be untouched to protect these areas. Quills were found in the short earth tunnel towards the top of this slope, where the unidentified bat was seen roosting. Several mammal tracks and large dung pits belonging to this species were seen in the vicinity of this tunnel. This species is listed as Potential Global Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002) and is listed as Least Concern (IUCN 2009).

Japanese Pipistrelle is considered as the most common bat in Hong Kong and is widespread, found in many urban areas (Shek 2006). It readily roosts in man-made structures.

An unidentified bat was seen roosting in the disused tunnel towards the top of the slope. This bat was seen on one occasion, the species of the bat, however, could not be identified.

All mammal species recorded during these surveys, that is Rhesus Macaque, East Asian Porcupine, Pallas’s Squirrel and all bat species, are protected by the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (WAPO) Cap.170.

Birds

A total of 36 bird species were recorded in the Study Area between February and June 2009, of which four are considered to be species of conservation concern (Fellowes et al. 2002). A full species list with their conservation status are provided in Appendix 5.2A.

The four species of conservation concern as of Fellowes et al. (2002) are Black Kite Milvus migrans, Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela, Black-capped Kingfisher Halcyon pileata and Red-billed Starling Sturnus sericeus, though none of these species were observed within the boundaries of the Project Site itself.

Black Kite is listed as being of Regional Concern on the basis of its restrictedness in breeding and /or roosting sites (Fellowes et al. 2002). Black Kite, a widespread species in Hong Kong, far more numerous in winter than summer, but conspicuous over urban areas (Carey et al. 2001). During survey of this Study, Black Kites were observed soaring above the Study Area.

Crested Serpent Eagle is listed as being of Local Concern on the basis of its restrictedness in breeding and /or roosting sites (Fellowes et al. 2002). Crested Serpent Eagle is present in Hong Kong throughout the year, and is mainly recorded from the wooded hillsides of the central New Territories (Carey et al. 2001); the individual observed during this study was recorded soaring over the wooded hillslopes of the Study Area.

A Black-capped Kingfisher was disturbed and flushed in the secondary woodland above the site for the proposed Hin Keng portal, though its particular habits could not be confirmed. This species is listed as being of Local Concern on the basis of its restrictedness in breeding and /or roosting sites (Fellowes et al. 2002). It is mainly a winter visitor and passage migrant found in coastal areas, though in summer it has been recorded at inland sites in wooded valleys and hillsides (Carey et al. 2001).

A flock of approximately 40 Red-billed Starlings were seen in a public park close to Tai Wai MTR Station. This species is of Global Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002) and is and abundant winter visitor, usually recorded from the Deep Bay area with occasional parties of birds recorded from other locations in Hong Kong (Carey et al. 2001).

Reptiles

A total of four reptile species was recorded in the Study Area between February and June 2009. The full list of species is shown in Appendix 5.3. None of these species are considered to be of conservation importance, they are common and widespread species in Hong Kong (Karsen et al. 1998).

Amphibians

A total of six species of amphibian was recorded in the Study Area between February and June 2009, including one toad species and five frog species. Two of frogs species Lesser Spiny Frog Paa exilispinosa and Hong Kong Cascade Frog, are of conservation interest. Results are summarized in Appendix 5.3.

Lesser Spiny Frog is regarded as Vulnerable by IUCN (2009) and is considered to be of Potential Global Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002), although it is widely distributed and common in suitable habitat in Hong Kong (Chan et al. 2005). Adult and immature frogs of this species were observed in Tei Lung Hau Stream and its immediate environs.

Adults and eggs of Hong Kong Cascade Frog were observed in the middle sections of the Tei Lung Hau Stream, which is located at the upstream of the proposed works site. Hong Kong Cascade Frog is listed as Endangered (IUCN 2009), and is listed as Potential Global Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002). It is also protected under the WAPO, and is considered to be widespread and locally common within protected areas of the New Territories and Hong Kong Island (Chan et al. 2005).

Other amphibian species observed are common and widespread in Hong Kong (Chan et al. 2005).

Butterflies

A total of 37 species of butterfly were recorded during the studies between February and June 2009. A full list of species is shown in Appendix 5.4A. No species of conservation interest were recorded.

Dragonflies

A total of 15 species of dragonfly were recorded during the surveys between February and June 2009. A full list of species can be seen in Appendix 5.5. Three species of conservation concern were recorded. Indochinese Copperwing Mnais mneme is listed as being of Local Concern, White-banded Shadowdamsel Protostica taipokauensis listed as being of Global Concern and Emerald Cascader Zygonis iris is listed as being of Potential Global Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002). These three species are commonly associated with hillstreams which have good water quality, and are considered to be widespread in the New Territories (Wilson 2004)

Stream Surveys

Three stream sites and one catchwater within the Study Area of Tai Wai – Hin Keng portal were surveyed (see Figure 5.9.1). The midstream and upper sections of Tei Lung Hau Stream and the stream behind Ka Tin Court were natural with rich riparian vegetation, with several native aquatic fauna species (see Appendix 5.6).

In addition to the frog and damselfly species recorded in the Tei Lung Hau Stream (see section above), a fish species of conservation interest, Predaceous Chub Parazacco spilurus, was recorded in both streams, throughout the length of the stream course. Predaceous Chub is considered as Vulnerable in Mainland China (CSIS 2009), although it is common and widespread in Hong Kong (Lee et al. 2004). The Vietnam Catfish, which appear in clean hillstreams only (Lee et al. 2004), was also observed at both streams. The presence of these species of conservation interest indicates good quality habitats of the two streams.

A stream located close to Keng Hau Road was dry in both wet and dry seasons. No aquatic organisms were observed in the stream.

Surveys were also conducted in the channelized catchwater of Lion Rock Country Park, to the south of Tei Lung Hau where numerous Predaceous Chub was observed.

5.5.2.2 Ma Chai Hang to Hung Hom

Between Ma Chai Hang and Hung Hom, the majority of the alignment will be underground, however there will be areas of above ground works including Ma Chai Hang ventilation building (MCV), EA/EEA at Wong Tai Sin and Tam Kung Road EEP, DIH and DHS, and Stations at Kai Tak, To Kwa Wan, Ma Tau Wai, Ho Man Tin and Hung Hom. Much of the Study Area 500m from the boundaries of the works areas and SCL (TAW– HUH) alignment is urban/ residential habitats. This can be seen in Table 5.5.

Table 5.5: Habitats present in the Project Site between Ma Chai Hang and Hung Hom

Habitat	Above Ground Works Sites (ha)	Above Ground Structures (ha)	DHS Area (ha)	500m from structures and alignment
Channelised Watercourse	0.03	-	0.03	2.66
Grassland	1.33	0.28	1.23	2.97
Grassland/ Shrubland	-	-	-	7.10
Plantation	3.21	0.93	1.56	96.65
Pond	-	-	-	0.40
Rocky Shore	-	-	-	0.09
Sea	-	-	-	29.00
Urban/ Residential Area	37.97	6.69	0.81	772.41
Total	42.54	7.91	3.63	911.28

MCV, EA/EEA at Wong Tai Sin and Tam Kung Road EEP

Habitats and vegetation

Survey visits were conducted in March and June 2009. The ventilation building is situated at Ma Chai Hang on an area currently occupied by a recreational sports ground surrounded by plantation species. The proposed EA/EEA at Wong Tai Sin is close by, and occupies and an area of land which is currently being utilised as a carpark. The Tam Kung Road EEP is currently occupied by a playground with soft landscape planting in a busy urban area.

Habitat diversity in these areas is low and flora species are restricted to mainly plantation and ornamental varieties with limited ecological value. Habitat maps of the proposed above ground structure is shown in Figure 5.1.3.

Ten larger specimens of trees are present in the proposed DHS (See Section 6). These trees are not registered as the Old and Valuable Trees by LCSD (LCSD 2009).

Fauna

Habitat diversity was low and habitats were of low ecological value. This was reflected in fauna surveys with common birds (12 species) and butterflies (13 species) recorded in this area (see Appendices 5.2A and 5.4A). No species of conservation interest were recorded.

DIH and Former Tai Hom Village (the proposed DHS)

Construction methodology

As discussed in Section 2.4, train stabling sidings are proposed at former Tai Hom Village to support future SCL train operations. The operational requirements of the train stabling sidings also demand the footprint to occupy most of the former Tai Hom Village. Further studies have also been considered to investigate whether a total underground stabling sidings is feasible. It has been concluded that the proposed semi-underground train stabling sidings is the only appropriate solution.

The major works associated with the construction of the semi-underground DHS will include site formation, utility diversion, excavation, piling installation, superstructure, drainage installation and landscaping. Most of the trees within the former Tai Hom Village would be felled.

Habitats and vegetation

DIH is a highly urbanized area with some ornamental planting. The site is currently used as operational MTRC Station, with negligible ecological value.

The proposed DHS site at former Tai Hom Village is currently surrounded by infrastructure and Urban/ Residential Areas. The former village and airbase comprised of a variety of habitat types and land-uses including plantation, grassland, channelised watercourse, hard-standing, built structures and car parking. A large area in the middle of the site are currently used as carpark. Plantation and grassland habitats dominate within the proposed DHS. This plantation is dominated by common native species such as Ficus microcarpa, Broussonetia papyrifera and Macaranga tanarius, and exotic species such as Acacia confusa, Bombax ceiba, Dimocarpus longan and Leucaena leucocephala. This plantation supports common floristic composition and moderate diversity of plants which are commonly planted or naturally established. Its understorey composition is limited and usually dominated by herbaceous vegetation such as Alocasia odora and Bidens alba. Grassland within the proposed DHS is dominated by herbaceous vegetation such as Bidens alba, Imperata koenigii, Panicum maximum and Bothriochloa ischaemum. Isolated trees and shrubs such as Ficus hispida, Macaranga tanarius and Bombax ceiba also occurred within the grassland. Both habitats are currently fenced and limited human disturbance is anticipated. The channelised watercourse was aligned with common tree species such as Leucaena leucocephala and Macaranga tanarius. The urban/ residential habitat includes a carpark paved road which are heavily used occupied by human. Vegetation recorded from these carpark and roads are limited. Habitat map for the site is shown in Figures 5.1.4 and 5.2.1.

The tree surveys identified that large numbers of plantation trees will be affected at former Tai Hom Village. The surveyed tree largely include fruit trees, ornamental trees or naturally established tree species (including Acacia confusa, Albizia lebbeck, Bauhinia spp., Bombax ceiba, Carica papaya, Dimocarpus longan, Ficus hispida, Ficus microcarpa and Macaranga tanarius). These mature tree individuals provide a dense and close canopy (detailed information on height and spread of these tree individuals refer to Sections 6.11 and 6.12) which could provide habitat for urban birds.

In addition, some larger specimens of trees, Ficus microcarpa, which are not registered as the Old and Valuable Trees by LCSD (LCSD 2009), are present in the proposed DHS (see Section 6.11.1). These trees do offer some limited foraging opportunities to local wildlife, however given the context of their location in the urban setting and the surrounding habitat types, largely urban and developed land, overall there is very little ecological value to these specimens.

No wild rare or restricted range trees were identified in the current tree survey, but some Ailanthus fordii were identified in the amenity areas at Junction of Lung Cheung Road and Po Kong Village Road (see Section 6.11.1). This species is regarded as rare species and protected under the Forestry Regulations (Cap. 96A). The identified individuals are likely to have been planted for ornamental purposes.

Fauna

A group of seven Short-nosed Fruit Bats was observed in a “tent” roost in a Chinese Fan Palm to the southwest of the site close to Choi Hung Road, outside of the Project Site. Whilst this Fruit Bat considered to be a widespread species in Hong Kong, and frequently observed in such Chinese Fan Palm roost in urban parks (Shek 2006), all bats are protected under WAPO.

All other species observed, including a total of 26 bird species and three butterfly species, are considered to be common and widespread. One species was considered to be of Conservation Interest according to Fellowes et al. (2002); a flock of 24 Red-billed Starlings were seen during dry season surveys; this species is considered to be of Global Concern. This species is an abundant winter visitor, usually recorded from the Deep Bay area with occasional parties of birds recorded from other locations in Hong Kong (Carey et al. 2001). A full list of species seen at Diamond Hill can be found in Appendix 5.2A and Appendix 5.4A respectively.

KAT

Habitats and vegetation

This site is a mixture of construction ground with sparse vegetation cover. A total of about 87 trees were identified in tree surveys and all were located at Kai Tak Area, either along street or in grassland/ wasteground. All of them are away from the proposed Kai Tak Runway barging facility. Habitat maps of KAT are shown in Figures 5.1.6.

All surveyed trees are very common in the urban area with seven species recorded including exotic species Leucaena leucocephala, Bombax ceiba, Casuarina equisetifolia and Melia azedarach and native species Macaranga tanarius, Ficus microcarpa and Celtis sinensis.

Fauna

Three bird species were recorded from the vicinity of Kai Tak Station (Appendix 5.2A). Two of these species are of conservation concern. Little Egret is listed as being of Potential Regional Concern and Local Concern with respect to restrictedness in breeding (Fellowes et al. 2002); however this species is frequently seen in Victoria Harbour. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius is considered to be of Local Concern on account of its restrictedness in breeding (Fellowes et al. 2002). Sparsely vegetated wasteground such as at Kai Tak, with low human disturbance often provide suitable breeding requirements for this species.

TKW

Habitats and vegetation

The habitats of the proposed TKW is located within an urban area mainly comprise a public car park, wasteground and grassland. Habitat diversity is low and flora species are restricted to mainly plantation and ornamental varieties with limited ecological value. Habitat map of the site is shown in Figure 5.1.8.

Fauna

One single bird species, Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus, was recorded which is of no conservation importance.

MTW

Habitats and vegetation

The majority of these specimens were planted in urban parks, along streets, on slopes or in other urban areas. Habitat map of the site is shown in Figure 5.1.9.

All surveyed species are common to very common species planted for amenity purposes in the urban parks or streets. Few native species occurred. Many individual trees were of poor/ fair health and form only.

Fauna

Fauna recorded from this site was limited to five common bird species (Appendix 5.2A) and single butterfly species (Appendix 5.4A). No species of conservation concern were observed at this site.

HOM

Habitats and Vegetation

The main structure of the proposed HOM is located within an existing public car park next to Chung Hau Street. The remaining extensions from the main station lie within the same car park and area along Yan Fung Street. The existing car park supports very low plant diversity and abundance. Habitat map is shown Figure 5.1.10.

Only weedy or very common plants were recorded, including herbs (Bidens alba, Ipomoea triloba, Malvastrum coromandelinum and Solanum nigrum) and scattered shrub and tree seedlings (Bombax ceiba, Broussonetia papyrifera, Celtis sinensis, Ficus religiosa and Leucaena leucocephala). The extension along Yan Fung Street covers a small strip of wasteground, retaining wall and an urban park.

Fauna

Fauna recorded from this site was limited to eight common bird species (Appendix 5.2A) and single butterfly species (Appendix 5.4A). No species of conservation concern were observed at this site.

HUH

Habitats and Vegetation

This is an existing station and limited habitats are present at this site, with only a few common plantation trees present. Habitat map of the site is shown in Figure 5.1.11.

Fauna

Fauna recorded from this site was limited to five common bird species (Appendix 5.2A). No species of conservation concern were observed at this site.

5.5.3 Prevailing Ecological Conditions of Off-site Works Areas

5.5.3.1 Off-site Storage Areas

Off-site storage areas at Ma On Shan (0.74ha), Shek Mun (3.11ha) and Pak Tin (0.21 ha) and all occupy urban/ residential land (see Figures 1.2 and 3.3.4 - 3.3.6). All sites are existing areas for storage of materials for similar projects. Neither site formation works nor an increase in footprint of these areas will be involved as part of this Project and as such, there will be no additional habitat loss at these off-site works sites caused by the Project.

The Site at Heng On is currently a car-park and is surrounded by residential and commercial properties.

The sites at Ma On Shan are occupied by archery centre storage yard and car park. All of these sites are situated close to road and rail infrastructure and associated plantation trees.

Two proposed storage sites occur at Shek Mun. These sites are currently occupied by two similar yards, a car park and an area of plantation and are adjacent to a channelised watercourse which enters the Shing Mun River Channel. Much of the surrounding environment is dominated by residential, commercial and road and rail infrastructure.

Storage site at Pak Tin is currently an area of hard-standing surrounded by roads.

5.5.3.2 Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility

Desktop Study

A Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility has been proposed for the construction of the Project. It is located at more than 500m from the proposed KAT (see Figures 1.2 and 3.3.1 for its location).

Literature reviews including recent studies of the approved Kai Tak Development EIA Report (Maunsell AECOM 2008). Studies revealed low habitat diversity, limited to only wasteground, for the Project Site itself. Two bird species of conservation importance, Grey Heron Ardea cinerea and Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis recorded within the vicinity of the current Project Site. In the wider study area, seven other bird species of conservation importance were recorded, including five ardeids, Black Kite Milvus migrans and Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo; all species that would be expected to occur on the wasteground and artificial coastline of the former Kai Tak Airport.

Comprehensive marine surveys (including dive, benthos and intertidal surveys) have been completed for this area for the Kai Tak Development EIA in 2007 (Maunsell AECOM 2008). Findings revealed that the substrate was mainly composed of muddy and sandy sea bottom with limited marine life, which was sparsely covered by scattered colonies of single coral species, though the assessment concluding that the ecological importance of the marine habitats were considered to be “Very Low” or “Low”.

Species include sessile species (e,g, periwinkle, limpets and barnacles), crabs and encrusting algae are recorded on the artificial seawall and are not of ecological interest (Maunsell AECOM 2008). Benthic assemblages in Victoria Harbour were typically of low diversity and abundance, and community structure was largely dictated by organic pollution from sewage discharges in the past (Maunsell AECOM 2008). A recent review of this marine fauna revealed that intertidal species along Victoria Harbour shorelines are common fouling organisms recorded on artificial seawall; with lower species diversity and abundance recorded than at semi-exposed shores in Hong Kong (Mott Connell Ltd 2007). Sponges, sea urchins (Diadema setosum) and polychaete Sabellastarte japonica and Cerianthus filiformis were recorded during a dive survey conducted in 2007 (Maunsell AECOM 2007a). Coral Spot dives were completed, within the vicinity of the current Study Site in 2007 and no coral species were identified, though the hard coral species Oulastrea crispata was recorded in several other nearby locations. Coverage of this coral species in the surveyed area is low and of small size, and the condition is fair (Maunsell AECOM 2007a). Approximate locations of dive surveys where corals were recorded are shown in Figure 5.10.1.

Survey Results

The Project Site is located along a portion of former Kat Tak Runway mainly consisting of an abandoned runway, grassland and plantation. Surrounding habitats are much similar to those on site. Open water of Victoria Harbour occurs on either side of the former runway; the coastline is composed of artificial hard shore. Habitats present within the Study Area are listed in Table 5.6, with habitat maps shown in Figures 5.3.1 and 5.3.2.

Table 5.6: Habitats present within the Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility

Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Project Site, Area (ha)	500m Study Area, Area (ha)
Channelised Watercourse	-	1.78ha (873m in length)
Grassland	1.75	8.25
Plantation	0.06	2.49
Sea	4.65	102.93
Urban/Residential Area	3.92	186.08
Artificial Seawall	approx. 500m adjacent to the Project Site	Greater than 4km of artificial seawall with Study Area
Total Area of Habitats ^(1)	10.37	301.53

Noted: [1] Artificial seawall not included in the calculation.

Grassland is the dominant habitat, which is largely covered by common grassy vegetation (such as Chloris barbata, Imperata koenigii, Panicum maximum, Pennisetum purpureum and Rhynchelytrum repens) and herbs (such as Alysicarpus vaginalis, Bidens alba, Mimosa pudica and Wedelia trilobata). Isolated shrubs and trees, including Casuarina equisetifolia, Ficus hispida, Lantana camara, Leucaena leucocephala and Urena lobata, were often recorded in the grassland. Some low-lying grassland retains water in wet season and supports low number of common herb species (such as Aster subulata and Fimbristylis aestivalis).

Kai Tak Runway Barging facility site has been recognized as holding birds on migration (Carey et al 2001). Surveys in April and June 2009 recorded a total of 31 species within the Project Site, and 39 species in total for the wider of the Study Area. A full species list can be seen in Appendix 5.2B. Seventeen species of conservation concern as of Fellowes et al. (2002) were recorded on the Project Site and the wider Study Area, which is listed in Table 5.7 below and shown in Figure 5.10.1.

Table 5.7: Bird species of conservation concern recorded at Kai Tak

Species	Level of Conservation Concern	Study Area
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea	PRC	√
Great Egret Egretta alba	PRC (RC)	√
Little Egret Egretta garzetta	PRC (RC)	√
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis	(LC)	√
Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax	(LC)	√
Black Kite Milvus migrans	(RC)	√
White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster	(RC)	√
Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius	LC	√
Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus	RC	√
Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus	LC	√
Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis	LC	√
Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta	LC	√
Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus	LC	√
White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis	(LC)	√
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis	LC	√
White-shouldered Starling Sturnus sinensis	(LC)	√
Collared Crow Corvus torquatus	LC	√

Key; PRC= Potential Regional Concern; RC=Regional Concern; LC = Local Concern, as of Fellowes et al. (2002). Those in parenthesis indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting rather than general occurrence.

Whilst most species of conservation concern are migratory (for example shorebirds and some ardeids) or using the site as part of their home range (for example Black Kite and White-bellied Sea Eagle), two species, Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius and Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis, were displaying obvious signs of breeding at the site.

One pair of Little Ringed Plover were utilising areas of wasteground to the southern end of the Study Area using broken wing display to draw the observer away from the nest/chicks. Little Ringed Plover often use bare ground as a breeding habitat. This species is a scarce breeding bird in Hong Kong (Carey et al. 2001).

Up to six pairs of Zitting Cisticola were observed displaying and holding territories in the rank grassland either side of the former runway. This species is a rare breeding bird in Hong Kong and is primarily confined to the northern New Territories (Carey et al. 2001).

Plain Prinia and Yellow-bellied Prinia were also observed displaying breeding behaviour within this Project Site. Whilst both are common species in Hong Kong and not considered to be species of conservation concern under Fellowes et al. (2002) recorded in, all breeding birds are protected under WAPO Cap. 170.

The mosaic of microhabitats (ephermal pools, wet grassland and bare ground) and structural diversity of vegetation within the grassland provides valuable stopover habitat for a range of migratory birds. A large flock of 124 Yellow Wagtails Moticilla flava and nine species of migratory shorebirds (see Appendix 5.2B) were seen utilising these habitats in April surveys.

Few species of other faunal groups were recorded during the surveys. A dead Checkered Keelback Xenochrophis piscator and two butterfly species (Common Grass Yellow Eurema hecabe and Pale Grass Blue Zizeeria maha); none of which are of conservation concern.

Intertidal fauna species recorded are common and widespread and were typical of those found in Victoria Harbour. These can be seen in Appendix 5.7.

Dive Surveys revealed that only one species of hard coral, Oulastrea crispata (Family Faviidae) was observed in the surveys. This species is characterized by its encrusting growth form and small size of only a few centimeters across. O. crispata mainly grows on rocky substrates in turbid water with high sedimentation, which is usually unfavorable habitat for most hard coral species (Veron 2000).

A total of 17 colonies of O. crispata was found in the surveys in transects KT1 to KT3 (see Appendix 5.8). Size of the colonies ranged from 4 to 24cm². Higher number of colonies was recorded in KT3 than the other transects. Along all transects, the recorded colonies were generally in normal status and show low level of sedimentation (2 to 20%), bleaching (0%) and mortality (0%) (see Appendix 5.8). All colonies were associated with large boulders of diameter ~50 to 150cm,

5.5.3.3 Tseung Kwan O Area 137

Desktop Study

The 1.11ha Project Site is proposed to accommodate a magazine site.

Studies also show that the adjacent grassland and shrubland of Clearwater Bay Country Park, some 300m to the east, hold several species of conservation interest (ERM 2007). Within the current Study Area, these include three butterfly species of restricted range and three bird species of conservation interest. The bird species were White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster, Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis and Hwamei Garrulax pectoralis; all species that would be expected to occur on occasion in the habitats present.

Hard corals in low abundance and diversity, dominated by those species commonly found in Hong Kong (ERM 2007) were recorded in the subtidal hard shores of Tit Cham Chau and Kwun Tsai, two islands within the Study Area.

Survey results

This Project Site is located in a reclamation area adjacent to the Clear Water Bay Country Park. Habitats present within the Study Area are listed in Table 5.8 with habitat maps shown in Figure 5.4.1.

Table 5.8: Habitats present within the TKO Area 137 Project Site and 500m Study Area

Habitat	Project Site, Area (ha)	500m Study Area, Area (ha)
Channelised Watercourse	0.15	1.04
Coastal Vegetation	-	0.11
Grassland	-	9.47
Grassland/ Shrubland	-	3.89
Rocky Shore		0.98
Artificial Coastline	-	c. 2158m
Sandy Shore	-	0.29
Sea	-	43.52
Shrubland	-	7.36
Urban/Residential Area	-	2.50
Wasteground	0.96	31.65
Total	1.11	100.81 ^(1)

Noted: (1) Artificial seawall not included in the calculation.

The reclamation area is mostly bare ground, with grassy ground and stands of the pioneer exotic tree Leucaena leucocephala that are of low conservation value. Heavy machinery and lorries operate in much of the wasteground to the west and northwest of the Project Site. The proposed magazine site is located towards the southern end of the TKO Area 137.

The magazine site lies along a drainage channel close to the shrubland within the Clear Water Bay Country Park. This site is predominantly bare ground with some limited herbaceous vegetation. Grasses (Bothricochloa bladhii, Cynodon dactylon, Chloris barbata, Neyraudia reynaudiana) dominate the ground cover, with weeds (Bidens alba, Eupatorium catarium, Mimosa pudica and Sesbania cannabina), climbers (Passiflora foetida and Wedelia trilobata) and plantation trees (Leucaena leucocephala). No rare or protected species was recorded in this site. The botanical significance of this vegetated bare ground is very limited.

Twenty-two bird species (see Appendix 5.2B) were seen within the Study Area, including three of conservation concern; Little Egret, Black Kite and Little Ringed Plover. None of these birds were close to the Project Site.

Fifteen Species of butterfly, none of conservation concern, were also recorded. The results for these can be seen in Appendix 5.4B.

Six species of dragonfly, Common Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis, Common Red Skimmer Orthetrum pruinosum, Green Skimmer O. sabina, Wandering Glider Pantala flavescens, Crimson Dropwing Trithemis aurora and Saddlebag Glider Tramea virginia, were recorded from channelised watercourses or over ephemeral pools. All are common and widespread in Hong Kong (Wilson 2004).

Tadpoles of Ornate Pigmy Frog Microhyla ornata, Paddy Frog Fejervarya limnocharis, Gnther’s Frog Rana guentheri and Brown Tree Frog Polypedates megacephalus were observed in channelised watercourses and large ephemeral pools. All of these species are common and widespread in Hong Kong (Chan et al. 2005b).

The channelised watercourses flow out to sea. Within the tidal section, fish species seen included Mullet Liza sp., White-spotted Spinefoot Siganus canaliculatus, Mangrove Red Snapper Lutjanus argentimaculatus Jarbua Terapon Terapon jarbua, Spotted Scat Scatophagus argus and juvenile Barracuda Sphyraena sp. Many of these species were juvenile, and are common in coastal waters (Lee et al. 2004, Sadovy & Cornish 2000).

5.5.3.4 Freight Pier Barging Facility

The Freight Pier at Hung Hom is currently employed for loading and unloading of goods from former freight yard to the container barges. Owing to the similarity with the existing loading and unloading operation, the Freight Pier will be easily converted to barging points for C&D material. The Freight Pier has three berths (including the berth fronting `Harbourfront Horizon), will be deployed to serve the SCL (MKK – HUH), SCL (HUH – ADM) and KTE (AECOM 2009b).

The Freight Pier (3.72 ha) is currently an operational pier with very low ecological value, incorporating 802m of artificial coastline. Nearby habitats included urban and developed areas and the open water of Victoria Harbour. Neither marine works nor modification to the existing seawall would be anticipated during SCL (MKK – HUH) work (AECOM 2009b). Figure 5.5.1 shows the habitat map for this site. A recent review of this marine fauna revealed that intertidal species along Victoria Harbour shorelines are common fouling organisms recorded on artificial seawall; with lower species diversity and abundance recorded than at semi-exposed shores in Hong Kong (Mott Connell Ltd 2007). Benthic assemblages in Victoria Harbour are typically of low diversity and abundance, and community structure was largely dictated by organic pollution from sewage discharges in the past (Maunsell AECOM 2008).

Extensive marine ecological survey work has been conducted previously in Victoria Harbour and surrounding waters. A literature review was made of several projects in and around Victoria Harbour, results of which are detailed in the following paragraphs.

The sediment of the Victoria Harbour is generally soft with coarse particle and in anaerobic condition due to the organic pollution (AECOM 2009a). Benthic communities found in this environment were mainly pollutants tolerant species and generally less diverse, in low number (Thompson and Shin 1983) and unevenly distributed (BWTD 2000). They were mostly comprised of polychaetes, molluscs and crustaceans (BCL 1994 In. Mott Connell 2007). Species found included polychaetes Minuspio cirrifera (Thompson and Shin 1983) and Capitella capitata (TDD 2001 In. AECOM 2009a), bivalves Ruditapes sp. (CDM 2004) and crustaceans Macrophthalmus sp. (ARUP 2001) and Corophium sp. (CDM 2004).

Corals were found in Victoria Harbour, but in low coverage and small size (AECOM 2009a). Only two coral species were found in the central Harbour area, they are hard coral Oulastrea crispata and octocoral Echinomuricea sp. (Maunsell AECOM 2007b). Other coral species found in the Victoria Harbour includes hard coral Balanophyllia sp. (AECOM 2009a). Oulastrea crispata and Balanophyllia sp. are common species in Hong Kong and can be found in turbid water (Chan et al. 2005a and Scott 1984). Babtie BMT (1997) also recorded soft coral and gorgonians species, they are Pink Soft Coral Dendronnephthya sp., Orange Sea Fan Echingoorgia complexa, White Sea Whip Euplexaura curvata and Purple Sea Whip Ellisella gracilis.

Intertidal habitats found in the Victoria Harbour are mostly artificial seawalls. Species recorded on the artificial intertidal shores in the Harbour were common in Hong Kong (AECOM 2009a). Neogastropod Thais clavigera, barnacles Balanus spp., isopod Ligia exotica (Morton and Morton 1983; Lee 1985; Lee and Morton 1985), bivalves Saccostrea cucullata, chiton Acanthopleura japonica and topshell Monodonta labio (Maunsell AECOM 2007b) were recorded on this habitat of the Victoria Harbour. Encrusting algae Pseudulvalla applanata (Maunsell AECOM 2007b) and erect algae Hincksia mitchelliae (Maunsell AECOM 2008) were also found. Surveys were conducted on natural intertidal rocky shores at the Victoria Harbour (Green Island) (Mott Connell 2007). Species found were mostly common species, such as, barnacle Tetraclita squamosa, topshells Monodonta labio, littorinids Nodilittorina trochoides, nerite Nerita undata, macroalgae Porphyra sp., Ulva sp., encrusting cyanobacteria Kyrtuthrix maculans (Mott Connell 2007).

Given the industrial nature of this site, there are limited opportunities for wildlife at this site and other than a few common weed species, no other wildlife were recorded from this area. Intertidal fauna species recorded are common and widespread and were typical of those found in Victoria Harbour. These can be seen in Appendix 5.7.

Table 5.9a: Habitats present within the Freight Pier, Hung Hom Site and 500m Study Area

Habitat	Project Site, Area (ha)	500m Study Area, Area (ha)
Plantation	-	1.84
Artificial Coastline
Sea	-	66.99
Urban/ Residential Area	3.72	70.78
Total ^(1)	3.72	139.62

Note: [1] Artificial seawall not included in the calculation.

5.5.4 Habitat Evaluations along Main Alignment

5.5.4.1 Watercourses

Channelised watercourses

Channelised watercourses occur at the former Kai Tak Airport Works Site close to the proposed KAT and former Tai Hom Village. Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological value of these natural watercourse areas are detailed below.

Table 5.10: Ecological evaluation of Channelised Watercourses

	Channelised Watercourses
Naturalness	Man made.
Size	2.66 ha through the former Kai Tak Airport site and 0.84 ha in Lion Rock Country Park
Diversity	Low.
Rarity	Not known.
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	Linked to terrestrial area.
Potential Value	Low.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No significant nursery or breeding ground known.
Age	Not known.
Abundance/ richness of wildlife	Not known.
Ecological Importance	Low

Natural watercourses

Other water-courses in the area have not been channelised and retain much of the riparian vegetation as well as a natural stream-bed. No natural watercourses will be loss in the Hin Keng Portal Area. Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of these natural watercourses areas are detailed below.

Table 5.11: Ecological evaluation of streams

Criteria	Tei Lung Hau Stream (Hin Keng Section) – (S1 in Figure 5.9.1)	Ka Tin Court Stream (Hin Keng Section) – (S2 in Figure 5.9.1)
Naturalness	Lower section: not very natural; middle and upper sections: natural.	Lower section: not very natural; middle and upper sections: natural.
Size	Medium.	Small.
Diversity	Low – medium.	Low – medium.
Rarity	Predaceous Chub is present. Lesser Spiny Frog, Hong Kong Cascade Frog and three damselflies of conservation concern are present	Predaceous Chub, Lesser Spiny Frog are present.
Re-creatability	Not readily re-creatable.	Not readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Fragmented.	Fragmented.
Ecological linkage	Linked to terrestrial area.	Linked to terrestrial area.
Potential Value	High.	High.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Nursery/ breeding ground for fish, crustacean and amphibian.	Nursery/ breeding ground for fish, crustacean and amphibian.
Age	Not known.	Not known.
Abundance/ richness of wildlife	Moderate.	Moderate.
Ecological Importance	Lower channelised section of Low Ecological Value. The natural and semi-natural middle and upper sections of Moderate Ecological Value.	Lower channelised section of Low Ecological Value. The natural and semi-natural middle and upper sections of Moderate Ecological Value.

Table 5.12: Ecological evaluation of streams

Criteria	Keng Hau Road Stream (Hin Keng Section) – (S3 in Figure 5.9.1)	Lion Rock Country Park Catch-water (Southern limit of Hin Keng Study Area) – (S4 in Figure 5.9.1)
Naturalness	Largely natural.	Not natural.
Size	Medium.	Large.
Diversity	Nil.	Low.
Rarity	Nil.	Predaceous Chub is present.
Re-creatability	Not readily re-creatable.	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Fragmented.	None.
Ecological linkage	Linked to terrestrial area.	Linked to terrestrial area.
Potential Value	Low.	Low.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Nil.	Nursery/ breeding ground for fish, crustacean and amphibian.
Age	Not known.	Not known.
Abundance/ richness of wildlife	Nil.	Low – moderate.
Ecological Importance	Low.	Low.

5.5.4.2 Plantation

The roadside plantations throughout the alignment and other above-ground sites within the Study Area are predominantly monotypic stands of non-native species such as Eucalyptus citriodora, Acacia auriculiformis and Acacia confusa. These areas are often subject to moderate or high levels of human disturbance and have a very poorly developed vegetative understorey. Plantation at the proposed Hin Keng portal is an older stand that also supports common native secondary woodland vegetation (such as shrubs/small trees Psychotria asiatica and Macaranga tanarius, and trees Aporusa dioica and Machilus pauhoi). However, this plantation stand at the proposed Hin Keng portal has been frequently disturbed by hikers and residents for their recreational use.

The plantation at the DHS site derives originally from landscape planting around the former Tai Hom Village and following the abandonment of the village, plantation species have not been maintained and a number of self-sown trees have also become established.. This plantation is dominated by common native species such as Ficus microcarpa, Broussonetia papyrifera and Macaranga tanarius, and exotic species such as Acacia confusa, Bombax ceiba, Dimocarpus longan and Leucaena leucocephala. This plantation supports common floristic composition and moderate diversity of plants which are commonly planted or naturally established. The surveyed trees largely include fruit trees, ornamental trees or naturally established tree species. The large specimens of Ficus microcarpa offer limited ecological opportunities to local wildlife, given their location in the urban environment.

Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of these plantation areas are detailed below.

Table 5.13: Ecological evaluation of plantation

Criteria	Plantation
Naturalness	Anthropogenic habitat with a high proportion of exotic species. Plantation at the proposed Hin Keng portal and its vicinity is dominated by exotic plantation Eucalyptus citriodora as its overstorey, and supports limited number of common native secondary woodland plant species. Plantation at DHS has been planted with some self-sown specimens following abandonment of former Tai Hom Village.
Size	Large extent in the Study Area
Diversity	Very low plant species diversity and structural complexity for most exotic plantation stands on the engineering slopes, along roads and in parks. Moderate plant species diversity but simpler structural complexity for the plantation stand at the proposed Hin Keng Portal. At DHS, the plantation supports common floristic composition and moderate diversity of plants which are commonly planted or naturally established.
Rarity	A common habitat in Hong Kong.
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Highly fragmented in Urban/Residential Areas.
Ecological linkage	Linkages with secondary woodland at Hin Keng and Lion Rock Country Park.
Potential value	Limited potential due to disturbance and high proportion of exotic species.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No significant nursery or breeding ground.
Age	Variable. Though large specimens of trees, which are not registered as the Old and Valuable Trees by LCSD (LCSD 2009), are present in the proposed DHS.
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low abundance and diversity of wildlife mostly comprising widespread and disturbance-tolerant species.
Ecological value	Low (for most plantation stands on the engineering slopes, along roads and in parks) to Low – Moderate (plantation stand at the proposed Hin Keng portal).

5.5.4.3 Secondary Woodland

A mature woodland of mostly native tree species, and with a good understorey of shrubs and bamboo, is located on the hillside adjacent to Tei Lung Hau Stream, to the south-east of the study area. Although there is a moderate level of human disturbance within the woodland, the floral community is reasonably diverse. The secondary woodland will not be directly impacted by the portal or associated works and no tree felling or transplantation are proposed for this area. Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of these secondary woodland areas are detailed below.

Table 5.14: Ecological evaluation of secondary woodland

	Secondary Woodland
Naturalness	Semi-natural climax habitat.
Size	78.94 ha within Study Area.
Diversity	Moderate floral species diversity and high structural complexity.
Rarity	A common habitat in Hong Kong. Evidence of East Asian Porcupine.
Re-creatability	Re-creatable but a long time would be required for trees to reach maturity.
Fragmentation	Somewhat fragmented by Urban/Residential Areas to north.
Ecological linkage	Habitat linkages with similar woodland in Lion Rock Country Park and Tei Lung Hau stream.
Potential value	Limited potential for direct increase in habitat value (woodland is mature).
Nursery/ breeding ground	Not known.
Age	Unknown but trees are relatively mature.
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Moderate.
Ecological value	High

5.5.4.4 Urban/ residential Areas

Within the Study Area, urban areas include many residential buildings, stockyards, open storage of containers and roads. These habitats are all subject to high levels of human disturbance. Some vegetation occurs in the low-density village areas; however this is of poor quality and of limited ecological importance. Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of these urban/residential areas are detailed below.

Table 5.15: Ecological evaluation of urban/ residential area.

Criteria	Urban/ Residential Areas
Naturalness	Anthropogenic habitat.
Size	Urban/Residential Areas extensive throughout alignment.
Diversity	Low habitat diversity.
Rarity	A very common habitat in Hong Kong.
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	No significant linkages with habitats of ecological significance.
Potential value	Enhancement potential of Urban/Residential Areas is limited.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Little Ringed Plover displaying during early 2009 suggests breeding at the old Kai Tak Airport.
Age	Age variable.
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low diversity and abundance of wildlife.
Ecological value	Low

5.5.4.5 Summary of habitats present and ecological value

Table 5.16:.Summary of habitats and their ecological value within Study Areas for Above-ground Works Sites along Main Alignment

Habitat	Ecological Value
Secondary Woodland	High
Natural Watercourses	Moderate
Channelised Watercourses	Low
Plantation	Low to Low - Moderate
Urban/ Residential Area	Low

5.5.4.6 Summary of Faunal and Floral Species of Conservation Interest within Study Area

Table 5.17: Fauna And Flora Species of Conservation Interest within the Study Area for Above-ground Works Sites along Main Alignment (only includes species of conservation interest or classified as rare, endangered or protected species).

Species/Group	Species of Conservation Interest (Fellowes et al. 2002)	Protection/ China Red Data Book	Locations/ Habitats Recorded in Study Area	Rarity/HK Status
Mammals
Bats – Japanese Pipistrelle Pipistrellus abramus and one unknown bat	-	WAPO all bats protected under WAPO).	Unknown species, temporary roost located in secondary woodland above the proposed Hin Keng portal entrance. Japanese Pipistrelle foraging around streetlights	Japanese Pipistrelle is widespread in Hong Kong (Shek 2006).
Short-nosed Fruit Bat Cynopterus sphinx	-	WAPO all bats protected under WAPO).	Roosting in Chinese Fan Palms at former Tai Hom Village. No young observed, but this is likely to be a breeding group.	Wide distribution in Hong Kong (Shek 2006)
Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta	-	WAPO	In plantation close to refuse collection point at Hin Keng.	Wide distribution in Hong Kong (Shek 2006).
Pallas’s Squirrel Callisciurus erythraeus	-	WAPO	Plantation close to Hin Keng.	Fairly wide distribution in Hong Kong (Shek 2006).
East Asian Porcupine Hystrix brachyura	PGC	WAPO IUCN Least Concern	Evidence in secondary woodland above the Hin Keng portal.	Widespread (Shek 2006)
Birds (all birds protected under WAPO) (as of Carey et al. 2001)
Little Egret Egretta garzetta ^w	PRC (RC)	-	Hard shore at Kai Tak.	Abundant resident
Black Kite Milvus migrans	(RC)	Class II Protected**	Overhead at Kai Tak and Hin Keng Portal area.	Abundant winter visitor and resident.
Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela	(LC)	-	Overhead Woodland.	Uncommon resident.
Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius		-	Wasteground in Kai Tak	Locally common winter visitor and passage migrant, scarce breeding species.
Black-capped Kingfisher Halcyon pileata	(LC)	-	Woodland above Hin Keng portal.	Locally common winter visitor and passage migrant. Occasional summer records.
Red-billed Starling Sturnus sericeus	GC	-	Urban/ Residential Area close to Tai Wai Hon Keng Section.	Abundant but localised winter visitor.
Amphibians
Hong Kong Cascade Frog Amolops hongkongensis	PGC	WAPO, IUCN Endangered	Stream (Tei Lung Hau and Ka Tin Court).	Common & Widespread in protected areas (Chan et al. 2005).
Lesser Spiny Frog Paa exilispinosa	PGC	IUCN Vulnerable	Stream (Tei Lung Hau and Ka Tin Court).	Common & Widespread in protected areas (Chan et al. 2005).
Fish
Predaceous Chub Parazacco spilurus	-	Vulnerable***	Stream (Tei Lung Hau and Ka Tin Court).	Common and widespread (Lee et al. 2004)
Dragonflies
Indochinese Copperwing Mnais mneme	LC	-	Stream (Tei Lung Hau).	Common in woodland streams in New Territories (Wilson 2004).
White-banded Shadowdamsel Protostica taipokauensis	GC	-	Stream (Tei Lung Hau).	Common in permanent streams in mature woodland in Hong Kong (Wilson 2004).
Emerald Cascader Zygonis iris	PGC	-	Stream (Tei Lung Hau).	Abundant. Widespread in moderately clean, fast flowing forest stream in Hong Kong (Wilson 2004).
Plants
Hong Kong Pavetta Pavetta hongkongensis	-	Cap. 96	Secondary woodland (woodland to the southwest of Tei Lung Hau	Common (Xing et al. 2000)
Cibotium barometz	-	Cap. 586	Secondary woodland (woodland at Tei Lung Hau) and plantation area at the proposed Hin Keng portal	Common (Xing et al. 2000)
Aquilaria sinensis	-	Cap. 586; Vulnerable****; Category II protected*****	Secondary woodland (woodland at Tei Lung Hau) and plantation area at the proposed Hin Keng portal	Common (Xing et al. 2000)

*CSIS 2008; **www.sepa.giv.cn 2008; ***Zeng & Wang 1998; **** www.iucnredlist.org; *****Yip & Lai 2004.

^w = denotes wetland dependent bird species

PRC = Potential Regional Concern; RC=Regional Concern; LC = Local Concern, as of Fellowes et al. (2002). Those in parenthesis indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting rather than general occurrence.

WAPO = Wild Animals Protection Ordinance Cap. 170; AP = Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance

The presence of "Hong Kong Pavetta" was based on anecdotal evidence so it is not included in Appendix 5.1.

5.5.5 Habitat Evaluations of Off-Site Works Areas

5.5.5.1 Subtidal habitats

Of all of the offsite Project Sites, potential direct impacts to these habitats are only predicted at Kai Tak. Literature review was carried out on the species recorded in these habitats. Based on previously described observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of the marine benthic habitats are listed below.

Table 5.18: Ecological evaluation of the hard benthic environment of proposed Barging Facilities at Kai Tak Runway,and Freight Pier

Criteria	Subtidal – hard substrate Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility and Freight Pier Barging Facility
Naturalness	Artificial seawall.
Size	The study site is connected to adjacent benthic habitat, resulting in a relatively large habitat size.
Diversity	The species diversity in the Kai Tak Runway area was low and the species composition was consistent with previous studies in Victoria Harbour. It is considered that area at Freight Pier will be of similar composition in light of literature review. The low diversity of corals at the Kai Tak Runway site is typical for this area.
Rarity	No species of conservation interest was recorded except a hard coral species Oulastrea crispata is present on the seawall at Kai Tak Runway and has been recorded elsewhere in Victoria Harbour and West Kowloon.
Re-creatability	The habitat is readily re-created.
Fragmentation	Both sites are highly connected to adjacent marine benthic habitat although fragmentation due to disturbance possible
Ecological linkage	Functionally linked to overlying water column and adjacent benthic habitats
Potential value	Low.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No species of conservation interest known to use the marine benthic habitats in these study area as a breeding or nursery ground.
Age	Not known.
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low abundance of sessile organisms and sparse hard coral patches were recorded. The sea bed was highly disturbed and occupied by the more pollution resistant epibenthos, which is likely to be associated to the extremely low coral abundance and diversity.
Ecological value	Very Low

Table 5.19: Ecological evaluation of the soft benthic environment of proposed Barging Facilities at Kai Tak Runway and Freight Pier

Criteria	Subtidal – soft substrate Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility and Freight Pier
Naturalness	Fine mud and sandy of serious anoxic condition. There was limited water mixing in the sheltered bay.
Size	The study site is connected to adjacent benthic habitat, resulting in a relatively large habitat size.
Diversity	Very low.
Rarity	None.
Re-creatability	The habitat is readily re-created.
Fragmentation	Highly connected to adjacent marine benthic habitat although fragmentation due to disturbance possible.
Ecological linkage	Functionally linked to overlying water column and adjacent benthic habitats
Potential value	Serious organic-enriched, anoxic condition eliminated the potential value of conservation.
Nursery/ breeding ground	None known
Age	Not known.
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Very Low.
Ecological value	Very Low

5.5.5.2 Intertidal Shores

There is extensive coastline within the Study Areas, comprised of artificial and natural hard shores and sandy beaches. Literature reviews (by way of relevant EIA reports from the nearby locations), walkover surveys and site visits have been used to assess those intertidal habitats at Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility, TKO Area 137 and Freight Pier Barging Facility. The natural rocky shore and sandy beach within the TKO Area 137 Study Area are unlikely to be affected by the existing barging point at TKO Area 137. Based on previously described observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of the intertidal shores listed in the Table 5.21 below.

Table 5.21: Ecological evaluation of Hard Artificial Shores at other Study Area where no specific surveys were required (Kai Tak Runway, Freight Pier and TKO Area 137) – details taken from literature review and walkover surveys.

Criteria	Hard Artificial Shore Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility, Freight Pier Barging Facility and TKO Area 137
Naturalness	Semi-natural rocky shore.
Size	Small – medium.
Diversity	Low – moderate.
Rarity	A common habitat type in Hong Kong. No rare species recorded.
Re-creatability	Re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	Linked to marine areas.
Potential Value	Low.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Nursery and/ breeding ground for common rocky shore species.
Age	Not known
Abundance/ richness of wildlife	Moderate.
Ecological Value	Low.

5.5.5.3 Channelised Watercourses and Natural Streams

Channelised Watercourses

Channelised watercourses occur within the Project Site of TKO Area 137. The channelised watercourses at TKO Area 137 have some linkages with the sea in the lower sections. Based on previously described observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of the channelised watercourses are listed below.

Table 5.22: Ecological evaluation of Channelised Watercourses at TKO Area 137

Criteria	Channelised Watercourse TKO Area 137
Naturalness	Man made.
Size	0.15ha (c. 120m)
Diversity	Low – medium.
Rarity	None seen.
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	Linked to terrestrial area and sea
Potential Value	High.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Nursery/ breeding ground for fish, and crustaceans
Age	Not known.
Abundance/ richness of wildlife	Low .
Ecological Value	Low- Moderate

5.5.5.4 Grassland

Grassland is found within three of the Study Areas (TKO Area 137 and Kai Tak Runway ); however it is only within one of the Project Sites, at Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility. Based on previously described observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of the grassland areas are listed below.

Table 5.23: Ecological evaluation of Grassland

Criteria	Grassland TKO Area 137	Grassland Kai Tak Runway
Naturalness	Semi-natural habitat undergone natural succession and developed from agriculture or hilly terrain.	Semi-natural habitat undergone natural succession and developed from short grass areas adjacent to runway.
Size	This habitat generally occurs in small, upland areas in the Study Areas.	8.25ha in Study Area. 1.75ha in Project Site.
Diversity	Low diversity of vegetation and fauna	Low diversity of vegetation and fauna
Rarity	Very common habitat in Hong Kong	Very common habitat in Hong Kong
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Not fragmented.	Fragmented from other terrestrial habitats other than concrete runways and wasteground
Ecological linkage	Good ecological linkages to other terrestrial and intertidal habitats	Poor ecological linkages with good quality terrestrial habitats.
Potential Value	Scope of succession to shrubby grassland if fire is prevented and seed sources are available.	Scope of succession to shrubby grassland if fire is prevented and seed sources are available.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Not known	Breeding birds included Plain and Yellow—bellied Prinia, Zitting Cisticola and Little-ringed Plover in bare areas within the grassland.
Age	Not known.	Not known.
Abundance/ richness of wildlife	Low abundance and diversity of fauna.	Low abundance and diversity of resident species. However the colonising ground and ephermal pools within the grassland provide stopover habitat for a wide range of migrant bird species.
Ecological Value	Low	Low- moderate

5.5.5.5 Shrubland

Shrubland and grassland/shrubland is found within those Study Areas adjacent to hillsides, namely TKO Area 137. No shrubland occurs within any of the Project Sites. Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of these shrubland areas mentioned above are listed below.

Table 5.24: Ecological evaluation of Shrubland

Criteria	Shrubland TKO Area 137
Naturalness	Semi-natural habitat on hill slopes.
Size	Large in some hillside locations.
Diversity	Botanically diverse.
Rarity	Similar habitat widespread on slopes in Hong Kong.
Re-creatability	Easily re-created on suitable slope but shrubs and trees need time to develop and mature.
Fragmentation	None.
Ecological linkage	Good linkages to other terrestrial and intertidal habitats.
Potential Value	Potential for improvement of habitat if hill fire is prevented and the terrestrial habitats are allowed to mature into tall shrubland/secondary woodland.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No significant nursery or breeding ground known.
Age	Unknown.
Abundance/ richness of wildlife	High number and diversity of faunal species.
Ecological Value	Moderate

5.5.5.6 Plantation

Plantation habitat occurs at all of the Study Areas, but does not occur at all within the footprint of any of the Project Sites. Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of these plantation areas mentioned above are listed below.

Table 5.25: Ecological evaluation of plantation

Criteria	Plantation (Recorded in all off-site Study Areas)
Naturalness	Anthropogenic habitat with a high proportion of exotic species.
Size	Varying amounts in Study Area
Diversity	Very low plant species diversity and structural complexity.
Rarity	A common habitat in Hong Kong.
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Highly fragmented in Urban/Residential Areas.
Ecological linkage	Large stands of hillside plantation linked to adjacent areas of shrubland and woodlands. Roadside plantation has limited linkages.
Potential value	Limited potential due to disturbance and high proportion of exotic species.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No significant nursery or breeding ground.
Age	Varying ages
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low.
Ecological value	Low

5.5.5.7 Wasteground

A common habitat in Hong Kong, this habitat is often been cleared for development and is sparsely vegetated, occasionally holding ephermal ponds and pools. Wasteground was present at TKO Area 137. Based on the above observations and the criteria set in Annex 8 of TM-EIAO, ecological values of these shrubland areas mentioned above are listed below.

Table 5.26: Ecological evaluation of Wasteground

Criteria	Wasteground TKO Area 137
Naturalness	Entirely anthropogenic habitat.
Size	Variable.
Diversity	Very low species diversity.
Rarity	A common habitat in Hong Kong.
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Fragments scattered through the different Study Areas.
Ecological linkage	TKO Area 137 is adjacent to Clearwater Bay Country Park.
Potential value	If disturbance is restricted and vegetation is allowed to mature, potential for succession to grassland or shrubland. Appropriate management would allow conversion into habitats of greater ecological value, possible including wetlands.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Little Ringed Plovers were seen on this habitat at TKO Area 137. Whilst breeding was not observed, this species readily utilises this habitat type for nesting.
Age	Intrinsically of young age; older patches undergo succession into other habitat types.
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low diversity and abundance of wildlife.
Ecological Value	Low

5.5.5.8 Urban/ Residential Area

Found in all of the Study Areas, this common habitat has limited ecological value. Within the Study Area, developed land including village areas, urban and residential locations, stockyards, open storage of containers, ports and road and rail infrastructure were identified. These habitats are all subject to high levels of human disturbance. Some vegetation occurs in the low-density village areas; however this is of poor quality and of limited ecological importance.

Table 5.27: Ecological evaluation of Urban/ Residential Area

Criteria	Urban/ Residential Area Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility, Freight Pier Barging Facility TKO Area 137, Ma On Shan, Pak Tin and Shek Mun.
Naturalness	Anthropogenic habitat.
Size	Urban/Residential Areas extensive
Diversity	Low habitat diversity.
Rarity	A common habitat in Hong Kong.
Re-creatability	Readily re-creatable.
Fragmentation	Not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	No significant linkages with habitats of ecological significance.
Potential value	Enhancement potential of Urban/Residential Areas is limited.
Nursery/ breeding ground	Not known
Age	Age variable
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low diversity and abundance of wildlife.
Ecological Value	Low

5.5.5.9 Evaluation Summary

Table 5.28: Summary of ecological value of habitats from within the Study Areas for the off-site works areas

Habitat	Ecological Value
Subtidal habits (Hard and Soft Substrate) (Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility)	Very Low
Intertidal Shores (Kai Tak Runway, Freight Pier Barging Facilities, TKO Area 137)	Low
Shrubland (TKO Area 137)	Moderate
Channelised Watercourses (TKO Area 137)	Low - Moderate
Grassland (Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility)	Low - Moderate
Grassland (TKO Area 137)	Low
Plantation (all Study Areas for off-site works areas)	Low
Wasteground (TKO Area 137)	Low
Urban/ Residential Area (all Study Areas for off-site works areas)	Low

5.5.5.10 Species of Conservation Interest

Species of conservation interest recorded are summarised in Table 5.29.

Table 5.29: Faunal Species of Conservation interest within, or in close proximity to the Off-site Works Areas

Species/Group	Species of Conservation Interest (Fellowes et al. 2002)	Protection/ China Red Data Book	Project Site and/ or Study Area	Rarity/ HK Status
Birds (n.b). all birds protected under WAPO) (as of Carey et al. 2001)
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea	PRC	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Abundant winter visitor, scare in summer.
Great Egret Egretta alba	PRC (RC)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Common to abundant all year.
Little Egret Egretta garzetta	PRC (RC)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Abundant resident.
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis	(LC)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Uncommon to common resident.
Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax	(LC)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Common to abundant resident.
Black Kite Milvus migrans	(RC)	Class II Protected**	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility, TKO Area 137	Abundant winter visitor and resident.
White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster	(RC)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Uncommon resident in coastal and offshore islands.
Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius		-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility, TKO Area 137	Locally common winter visitor and passage migrant, scarce breeding species.
Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus	RC	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Abundant winter visitor with small numbers on passage.
Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus	LC	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Common spring passage migrant, scarce in autumn and winter.
Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis	LC	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Abundant spring passage migrant, scare in autumn and winter.
Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta	LC	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Uncommon to common in spring, scarce in autumn and winter, with isolated summer records.
Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus	LC	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Passage migrant, common in spring and uncommon in autumn and scarce in winter.
White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis	(LC)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Common and widespread passage migrant and winter visitor, uncommon in summer.
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis	LC	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Common winter visitor and passage migrant; rare breeding species.
White-shouldered Starling Sturnus sinensis	(LC)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Common passage migrant, scarce, localized breeding summer visitor and winter visitor.
Collared Crow Corvus torquatus	LC, Near Threatened (IUCN 2010)	-	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	Uncommon and localised Resident.
Coral
Oulastrea crispata	WAPO	-	Kai Tak Runway	O. crispata mainly inhabit subtidal turbid water, attached to wave washed rock; and the abundance is generally not high within its distribution range (Veron 2000).

Note:*CSIS 2008; **www.sepa.giv.cn 2008; ***Zeng & Wang 1998.

^w = denotes wetland dependent bird species

PRC = Potential Regional Concern; RC=Regional Concern; LC = Local Concern, as of Fellowes et al. (2002). Those in parenthesis indicate that the assessment is on the basis of restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting rather than general occurrence.

WAPO = Wild Animals Protection Ordinance; AP = Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance

5.6 Prediction and Evaluation of Impacts

5.6.1 Introduction

This section identifies and assesses the direct and indirect, primary and secondary, on-site and off-site impacts likely to be caused by the proposed Project Sites during the construction and operational phases. It also addresses the cumulative impacts of the proposed development together with other projects in the area.

5.6.2 Impact Evaluation Criteria

The significance of ecological impacts has been evaluated based primarily on the criter.ia set out in Table 1 of Annex 8 of the Technical Memorandum:

· Habitat quality;

· Species affected;

· Size/abundance of habitats affected;

· Duration of impacts;

· Reversibility of impacts; and

· Magnitude of environmental changes.

This assessment is based on the alignment plan and drawings for the off-site works areas as shown in Figures 1.1 and 1.2. Estimates of habitat loss and identification of areas to be affected by development have been calculated as accurately as possible.

5.6.3 Construction Phase Potential Impacts

5.6.3.1 Areas along main alignment

Direct Impacts –– Habitat loss

Tai Wai – Hin Keng Portal - Construction methodology

At Hin Keng Portal, construction of working shaft and working areas for the gas offtake station access road/ gas main diversion, site formation works is required at the existing slope to the north of Tei Lung Hau natural stream. Tree felling is required at the slope and tree transplantation would be considered and recommended whenever possible prior to the commencement of works. At the portal, a deep working shaft shall be excavated to enable tunnel mining at the bottom of the shaft. The tunnel shall then pass underneath Tei Lung Hau stream towards Lion Rock Hill. The tunnel surroundings will be grouted to prevent water drawdown. A fence is proposed close to the northern bank of the stream, facing the portal to prevent boulder fall and debris flow. It is anticipated there will be no realignment or diversion of Tei Lung Hau stream, and the stream will not be directly affected during both construction and operational stages.

The maximum water depth along the stream is quite shallow, about 1m, and thus the water pressure built up at the tunnel crown level is quite minimal, i.e. about 7m water head taking into account of the 6m vertical separation. This water pressure magnitude is quite minimal as the proposed grouted canopy tubes tunnelling method has been successfully implement in soft ground stratum with water pressure exceeding 20m. Thus, we do not envisage any dewatering impact on the stream at construction stage due to the proposed tunnelling method.

In the permanent condition, the design of the tunnel structure has been undertaken to ensure that the tunnel is fully watertight to prevent any ingress of groundwater, and structurally sound to minimise any reliance of the geotechnical properties of the surrounding soil and rock mass. Thus, dewatering impact in the permanent condition is not an issue.

Figures 3.1a and 3.1b show the details of construction methodology at Hin Keng Portal including the extent of cut slope, fences along the northern bank of Tei Lung Hau Stream and the vertical profile for mine tunnelling underneath the stream.

DHS - Construction Methodology

The construction of DHS will be completed in five stages.

Stage 1 - Site clearance and tree transplanting/ felling works, will take place. The works to form the embankment for Lung Cheung Road westbound will commence as soon as possible to facilitate the construction of DIH. Installation of the diaphragm wall of DIH will commence. Preparation works for relocating or transplanting of major trees and the heritage structures (i.e. Old Pillbox, Stone House and Former Royal Air Force Hangar) will also commence.

Stage 2 – Continue to excavate the southwest corner of the site and commence piling works once excavation has reached formation level. Shoring and excavation will also commence at the south-east corner in this stage while the preparation works for relocating the major tree and the heritage structures will remain in progress.

Stage 3 – Continue to excavate the southwest and southeast corner of the site and commence piling works simultaneously. Diaphragm wall installation works of DIH will remain in progress. The major trees are to be retained on site in this stage.

Stage 4 – Once the diaphragm wall construction of DIH is completed, the traffic at Lung Cheung Road westbound can be resumed. As the west end of the DIH encroaches into a portion of Lung Cheung Road, a temporary decking is proposed to maintain vehicular and pedestrian movement. Major trees will be transplanted from site in this stage.

Shoring and excavation will commence at the unexcavated area which is being occupied by westbound traffic of Lung Cheung Road at the previous stages. Piling works will continue for the whole site area in this stage.

Stage 5 – Upon completion to the roof top and vent shaft, the ABWF, landscape works, E&M installation and track laying works will follow.

Habitat loss

Tai Wai - Hin Keng Portal

The total area of the Project Site for the above-ground works at the Tai Wai – Hin Keng section is 5.13ha. The secondary woodland above Tei Lung Hau Stream and the stream itself are both outside of the Project Site and as such, will not be affected by the Hin Keng portal, and neither of these habitats will be lost. Table 5.30 shows the areas of habitat to be lost and the ecological value as described in Section 5.5.4.

Table 5.30: Table showing predicted habitat loss for the Tai Wai to Hin Keng Portal Section only

Habitats	Within the Proposed Viaduct and Portal, Area (ha)	Ecological value
Plantation	1.94	Low-moderate
Urban/ Residential Area	3.19	Low
Total	5.13

Other above ground stations and above ground works sites

Six stations (mostly underground including DIH, KAT, TKW, MTW, HOM and HUH) and several aboveground works site are proposed to be built or improved in the section of SCL between Diamond Hill and Hung Hom. All are to be built or improved on areas that are highly disturbed and of low ecological value, on account of their locations within the urban and built environment. Actual land take for each station are shown in Table 5.31.

Table 5.31: Table showing predicted habitat loss for other aboveground structures and associated works (including Hin Keng – Tai Wai Section)

Habitat	Above Ground Works Sites (ha)	Aboveground Structures (ha)	DHS (ha)	Total Area of loss (ha)
Channelised Watercourse	0.03	-	0.03	0.06
Grassland	1.33	0.28	1.23	2.84
Plantation	5.15	0.93	1.56	7.64
Urban/ Residential Area	41.16	6.69	0.81	48.66
Total	47.67	7.91	3.63	59.20

Direct Impacts - Tree Felling

A large number of trees will require felling or transplantation with a total area of plantation proposed to be affected totals 7.70ha for both areas along the alignment and off-site areas (7.64ha and 0.06ha respectively).

Significant number of trees in the Hin Keng area and the combined areas of Diamond Hill CDA and Kai Tak will be affected, either by transplantation, felling or removal (for dead trees and exotic weedy tree species Leucaena leucocephala) at these sites (refer to Table 6.13, Section 6.12 for details). Affected trees within the construction of the proposed HIK, site formation and construction of Hin Keng Portal and associated structures, and temporary works area. These construction areas will be located close to/ at Hin Tin Playground, AFCD N.T. South Animal Management Centre & Shatin Plant Quarantine, along Che Kung Miu Road, East Rail embankment areas opposite to Hin Keng Playground, engineering slopes south of Tai Wai Road, plantation stands at Tei Lung Hau, Hin Keng Estate and other urban/ developed areas. Of the trees to be affected by the construction works, those of high amenity value and survival rate after transplant will be transplanted. Trees which will be felled are due to either direct conflict with the construction work or the trees are either of low amenity value or low survival rate after transplant (see Section 6.12 for details). No LCSD registered Old and Valuable Trees were identified at this site. Majority of these felled trees are trees (mostly exotic species) for amenity planting along roads, on the engineering slopes or in Hin Keng Playground, including Acacia confusa, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Bauhinia variegata, Aleurites moluccana, Erythrina variegata, Bauhinia blakeana, Callistemon viminalis and Liquidambar formosana. Low number of common native trees such as Macaranga tanarius, Sterculia lanceolata and Ficus microcarpa (mostly recorded on the slope or in urban/developed areas) and Machilus pauhoi (recorded in the plantation at the proposed Hin Keng Portal) will be felled. However, many Livistona chinensis identified in the site will be either retained or transplanted due to their existing or potential ecological value to fruit bats and birds.

A large number of trees will be affected within the construction works of the proposed Hin Keng and Diamond Hill areas (for details on construction methodology please see Section 2.4 and Section 5.5.2.2.) No LCSD registered Old and Valuable Trees were identified at this site and majority of these affected trees are small trees with trunk diameter less than 200mm or with low amenity value and/or low survival rate and are composed of species such as Acacia confusa, Albizia lebbeck, Bauhinia spp., Bombax ceiba, Ficus hispida, Macaranga tanarius and fruit trees including Dimocarpus longan and Carica papaya which have been planted for ornamental purposes and are of limited ecological value. Those trees with high amenity and survival rate will be transplanted, including large specimens of Ficus microcarpa and Ficus superba var. japonica of good to fair health conditions. However, identified large specimens of tree, including Crateva uniloccularis, Ficus elastica and Ficus microcarpa, that are in direct conflict with the proposed construction works will be unavoidably affected and as a last resort may be felled if transplantation is not possible (see Section 6.12 for details). For full details of trees to be felled due to direct conflict with the construction work and the trees are either of low amenity value or low survival rate after transplant, see Section 6.12 for details.

Other sites along the alignment where tree felling will occur are at To Kwa, Ma Tau Wai, Hung Hom and Ma Chai Hang. The only off-site location where trees will be affected is TKO Area 137. For full details see Section 6.12.

Faunal species of conservation interest recorded in plantation include Rhesus Macaque and Short-nosed Fruit Bat. Rhesus Macaques were observed in the plantation stand around the Refuse Collection Point (RCP) near the proposed Hin Keng Portal, waiting for opportunities to forage in the bins of the RCP. Loss of plantation in this area would lead to a loss of vantage point prior to raiding the RCP; however there are sufficient other trees and foraging opportunities in the area for this species to readily utilise.

One roost of Short-nosed Fruit Bat has already been identified during ecological surveys at former Tai Hom Village, though this is outside of the proposed DHS site. Direct loss of Chinese Fan Palms would reduce the roosting opportunities for this widespread species regularly encountered in the urban environment. Overall, the impact of the loss of individual Chinese Fan Palms would be negligible to roosting Fruit Bats, due to their widespread planting in urban parks and green areas. However, precautionary checks for roosting bats in all Chinese Fan Palms to be removed or transplanted should be made to prevent direct impacts to the Bats themselves.

Whilst most trees will be of little ecological significance, some with potential for roosting bats (those of suitable size which display fissures, holes or cracks) should be considered to potentially be of higher ecological value. Should these trees contain bat roosts, felling of these will lead to permanent loss of breeding and/ or roosting sites.

Indirect Impacts - Disturbance

Indirect impacts through construction activities will cause local disturbances to habitats and wildlife. Excess noise, vibrations, dust and increased human activity may all contribute to increased disturbance during construction and operation phases. Given that many sites are within already highly disturbed anthropogenic habitats, most species recorded are generally considered to be either tolerant to a certain amount of human disturbance and they are mobile enough that they can safely relocate to other similar, adjacent habitats during the temporary works.

Indirect Impacts – Water Quality and Site Run-off

Construction work for the Hin Keng portal is adjacent to the lower sections of Tei Lung Hau Stream. In these areas in close proximity to water incorrect storage of construction material and construction site run-off may indirectly impact on these surrounding habitats and associated wildlife. Site runoff will be controlled under ProPECC PN1/94 and discharged of pollutant into the stream is not expected. It is anticipated that these impacts would be of minor significance, species of conservation interest are located in the middle to upper sections of the stream away from the proposed works site. It is unlikely that run-off will affect upstream sections.

Indirect Impacts – Hydrological condition

There will be a tunnel that extends under Lion Rock Country Park (see Section 3.1) entering between Hin Keng and Diamond Hill. The proposed Lion Rock tunnel passes beneath the Lion Rock Country Park between chainages N28+000 and N29+650. At chainage N28+000 the tunnel rail level is +13mPD, and ground surface level is +180m. This large vertical separation of low permeability rockmass will prevent any effect occurring to the near-surface groundwater regime due to the proposed SCL tunnel.

At chainage N29+650, the tunnel rail level is +7mPD, and ground surface level is +95m. This large vertical separation of low permeability rockmass should also prevent any effect occurring to the near-surface groundwater regime from the deep tunnel. In this area there is already the High Island Reservoir tunnel, which is located higher than the proposed SCL tunnel. This water tunnel is a drained structure, and has no visible effect on the near surface groundwater regime, thus confirming that the proposed SCL tunnel would have no effect on the near-surface groundwater regime.

Despite this, routine probing and measurement of groundwater inflow during construction would be carried out, and mitigation measures to reduce inflow would be implemented if inflows exceeded specified limits. This would ensure that there is no possible adverse effect on near surface groundwater levels in the Country Park, and hence no effect on the biological communities.

The tunnel alignment at this section has been revised as to mitigate the construction risks associated with Drill & Blast tunneling of Lion Rock Tunnel at the southern side. As a result, the vertical separation between the bottom of natural stream and tunnel crown is revised to about 6m.

Canopy tubes will be installed from the shaft structure and extend the full width of the stream. These canopy tubes with sieves along its length will be grouted and form a stable and low permeable ‘umbrella’ for further mining works to be carried out in stages. The canopy tubes beneath the stream area are within Completely Decomposed Granite (CDG) stratum and thus the proposed construction method will be effective in terms of minimizing the draw down of water table.

In terms of time frame, the mining works beneath the natural stream is expected to take two weeks and once the temporary lining is fully installed after the two week period, risk of water inflow is fully dissipated. Similar construction method has been widely used in Hong Kong, especially for subway construction beneath busy roads within urban area.

Further details for hydrological mitigation can be seen in Section 3.2.4.

5.6.3.2 Terrestrial Ecological Impacts of Off-Site Works Areas

Direct Impacts - Habitat loss

The predicted habitat loss for each of the Project Site can be seen in Table 5.32. A total area of 18.2ha would be affected, made up of grassland, urban/ residential; rocky shore, sea and wasteground.

It should be noted that the off-site works sites at Shek Mun, Heng On, Pak Tin, Tai Shui Hang and Hung Hom, which have been previously employed as temporary works areas under the other infrastructure projects, are used as site office and storage purpose, and neither site formation works nor increase in footprint of these areas will be involved (See Section 3.4.5). There will be no habitat loss at these sites as a result of this project.

Table 5.32: Summary table showing predicted habitat loss (ha) for all Off-site Works Site

Project Site	Grassland	Plantation	Urban/ Residential Area	Channelised Watercourse	Sea (Benthic Habitat during dredging)	Waste-ground	Total Area of Project Site
Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	1.75	0.06	3.92	-	4.65	-	10.37
TKO Area 137	-	-	-	0.15	-	0.96	1.11
Freight Pier Barging Facility		-	3.72			-	3.72
Cumulative total area of habitat loss	1.75	0.06	7.64	0.15	4.65	0.96	15.21
Habitat Value	Low and Low-moderate at Kai Tak Runway	Low	Low	Low	Low-moderate	Low

As can be seen from Table 5.32, the areas of habitat to be lost are considered to be of Low or Low-Moderate ecological value (the ecological value as described in Section 5.3). Further discussion for water quality impacts to the marine environment are discussed in Section 10).

The Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility site is the only site where species of conservation concern were observed and would be directly impacted by habitat lost. Little Ringed Plover and Zitting Cisticola were observed holding breeding territories in this site.

The grassland habitat at Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility also provides suitable stop over habitat for bird species on migration. The mosaic of microhabitats provides temporary shelter and foraging opportunities for a range of migrant bird species, several of which are considered to be of conservation concern.

Direct Impacts - Vegetation clearance

At the grassland and wasteground sites at Kai Tak Runway and TKO Area 137, observations of breeding birds have been made. Zitting Cisticolas and Prinias nest in low vegetation and Little Ringed Plover is a ground nesting species. Timings for vegetation clearance and site preparation should therefore be taken into consideration to avoid impacts to nesting birds.

Indirect Impacts - Disturbance

Indirect impacts through construction activities will cause local disturbances to habitats and wildlife. Excess noise, vibrations, dust and increased human activity may all contribute to increased disturbance during construction and operation phases. Given that many sites are within already highly disturbed anthropogenic habitats, most species recorded are generally considered to be either tolerant to a certain amount of human disturbance they mobile enough that they can safely relocate to other similar habitats during the temporary works.

Indirect Impacts – Water Quality

The magazine site at TKO Area 137 is in close proximity to channelised watercourses that lead to the sea. In areas in close proximity to water incorrect storage of construction material and construction site run-off may indirectly impact on these surrounding habitats and associated wildlife. Site run off may lead to temporary water quality issues and an increase in local suspended solids for a short period of time. Given the extent of the coastal waters and the tidal nature of this area, it is anticipated any site run-off will be controlled under ProPECC PN 1/94 Construction Site Drainage and its impact would be of minor significance (see Section 10.7).

5.6.3.3 Off-Site Works Areas (Marine Ecological Impacts)

Direct Impacts – Sediment Removal

Small area for sediment removal has been proposed at Kai Tak. It is anticipated that sediment removal will cover an area of about 4.65ha at Kai Tak.

Considering the low ecological values of the soft bottom seabed, subtidal and intertidal (artificial) habitats, it is anticipated that the temporary loss of these habitats would only cause minor impact on the marine ecological system in and within the vicinity of the Project Sites.

The only species of conservation importance identified in the Kai Tak Runway Barging facility Project Site were three small hard coral colonies of Oulastrea crispata.

Indirect Impacts - Water Quality

The magazine site at TKO Area 137 is in close proximity to the sea. In these areas in close proximity to water incorrect storage of construction material and construction site run-off may indirectly impact on these surrounding habitats and associated wildlife. Site run off may lead to temporary water quality issues and an increase in local suspended solids for a short period of time. It is anticipated that these impacts be controlled under ProPECC PN 1/94 Construction Site Drainage and its impact would be of minor significance (see Section 10.7).

Indirect Impacts – Suspended Solids from Sediment Removal

Sediment removal activities can cause a temporary elevation of suspended sediment levels in the water column and sediment plumes may impact filter feeding organisms. Such sediment plumes may also cause temporary decrease in local dissolved oxygen levels and will increase turbidity.

In the sediment removal site at Kai Tak Runway, there is also the potential for contaminant release during sediment removal processes. Sediment in the project area may be contaminated with heavy metals and organic pollutants (Maunsell AECOM 2008).

Benthic epifauna could be susceptible to the effects of increased sediment loads. Effects could be detrimental, through reduction in survivorship, growth rate and reproductive potential due to stress incurred by the need to constantly flush out deposited material. The effects of sedimentation on organisms depend on several factors, such as species tolerance to suspended solids, life modes of organisms (sessile or free-swimming) and water movement.

Considering the temporary nature of the sediment removal exercise and the low ecological value of the benthic communities at Kai Tak, it is considered that the effects of suspended solids from dredging at these sites is not significant.

Indirect Impacts – Increased Marine Traffic

It is planned that there will be a maximum of three barges per day at the two Barging Facilities (Kai Tak Runway and Freight Pier). Considering the temporary nature of the barge movements, the low frequency of traffic and the low ecological value of the benthic communities at these two sites, it is considered that the effects of increased marine traffic would be minor.

5.6.4 Operational Phase Potential Impacts

Indirect Impacts – Disturbance

No direct operational phase impacts are anticipated. There may, however, be indirect impacts by way of increased disturbance to wildlife from an increase in human activity in the vicinity of these new facilities, though these are currently situated in areas of high human disturbance and in areas of low ecological value. These areas are already inhabited by species tolerant of human disturbance and it is anticipated any impacts of increased disturbance will be negligible.

5.6.5 Evaluation of impacts

Impact Evaluation Criteria

The significance of ecological impacts has been evaluated based primarily on the criteria set out in Table 1 of Annex 8 of the Technical Memorandum:

· Habitat quality;

· Species affected;

· Size/abundance of habitats affected;

· Duration of impacts;

· Reversibility of impacts; and

· Magnitude of environmental changes.

5.6.5.1 Areas along Main Alignment

Following the criteria shown in Annex 8 in the EIAO-TM, habitats within the Study Area which are to be directly impacted by the above ground structure and works sites of the SCL are evaluated and presented in the following Tables 5.33 to 5.36.

Table 5.33: Direct ecological impacts to Grassland without mitigation measures

Criteria	Grassland
Habitat Quality	Grassland at former Tai Hom Village of Low ecological value.
Species	Low diversity of flora and fauna species.
Size/Abundance	An area of 2.84 ha would be affected.
Duration	Loss of habitat would be permanent.
Reversibility	Impacts by way of habitat loss would be permanent.
Magnitude	Low.
Overall Impact Severity	Overall impact of this habitat loss would be of Low Significance.

Table 5.34: Direct ecological impacts to Channelised Watercourses without mitigation measures

Criteria	Channelised Watercourse
Habitat Quality	Channelised watercourse at of Low Ecological value because of nature of channel (concrete-lined), pollution and low ecological linkage to other wetland habitats.
Species	Low numbers of a single species of wetland-dependent bird (Little Egret) recorded foraging in part of the channel.
Size/Abundance	A small area of 0.06 ha would be affected.
Duration	Loss of habitat would be permanent. Impacts to water quality would be short term and temporary.
Reversibility	Impacts by way of habitat loss would be permanent. Impacts to water quality would be temporary.
Magnitude	Low.
Overall Impact Severity	Overall impact of this habitat loss would be of Low Significance.

Table 5.35. Direct ecological impacts to Plantation without mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Plantation – Tai Wai – Hin Keng Portal	Impacts to Plantation – above ground works along alignment (not including Tai Wai To Hin Keng)	Impacts to Plantation – Aboveground Structures (ha) (not including Tai Wai To Hin Keng)	Impacts to Plantation – Former Tai Hom Village at the proposed DHS
Habitat Quality	Habitat comprises mostly of non-native tree species of low ecological value.
Species	Very few species recorded in this habitat. Rhesus Macaque and saplings of Aquilaria sinensis occurred in this habitat.	Very few species recorded in this habitat.		Very few species recorded from this habitat other than those birds species commonly associated with urban areas. A Short-nosed Fruit Bat roost was identified within a Chinese Fan Palm on the edge of the site.
Size/Abundance	An area of 1.94 ha of habitat would be lost	An area of 3.21 ha of habitat would be lost	An area of 0.93 ha of habitat would be lost	An area of 1.56 ha of scattered plantation would be lost and trees will be affected by the construction stage
Duration	Habitat loss would be permanent though transplanting of trees will occur where possible.
Reversibility	Habitat could easily be replaced by replanting, although planting of native trees would be more appropriate.
Magnitude	Loss of a small area of a habitat which is common in the Study Area (and elsewhere in Hong Kong) would have an impact of low magnitude. However, if bats are roosting in fissures or holes in larger specimens of affected trees, impact will be much higher.
Overall Impact Severity	The area to be lost is very small, especially in comparison to the total in the Study Area and elsewhere in Hong Kong, and species diversity is very low, therefore habitat loss considered to be of Low Ecological Significance.

Table 5.36: Direct ecological impacts to Urban/ Residential Area without mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Urban/ Residential Area
Habitat Quality	Habitat of low ecological value.
Species	Very few species recorded in this habitat. Rhesus Macaque was seen in these areas around Hin Keng Portal. Little Ringed Plover displaying breeding behaviour at old Kai Tak.
Size/Abundance	An area (48.66 ha) of Urban/Residential Area would be lost.
Duration	Habitat loss would be permanent. Human disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat would be permanent. Human disturbance would be permanent.
Magnitude	Loss of a small area of a habitat which is common in the Study Area (and elsewhere in Hong Kong) would have an impact of low magnitude.
Overall Impact Severity	The area to be lost is very small, especially in comparison to the total in the Study Area and elsewhere in Hong Kong, and species diversity is very low, therefore habitat loss considered to be of Very Low Ecological Significance.

5.6.5.2 Off-Site Works Areas

Terrestrial

Following the criteria shown in Annex 8 in the EIAO-TM, habitats within the Study Area which are to be directly impacted by the proposed development are evaluated and presented in the following Tables 5.37 to 5.40.

Table 5.37: Direct ecological impacts to Grassland without mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Grassland – Kai Tak Runway
Habitat Quality	Habitat comprises common grass and herb species of low ecological value.
Species	Four species of breeding birds recorded from this habitat including Little Ringed Plover, Zitting Cisticola, Yellow-bellied Prinia and Plain Prinia.
Size/Abundance	An area (1.75 ha) of a habitat would be lost.
Duration	Habitat loss would be permanent.
Reversibility	Habitat could easily be replaced by replanting.
Magnitude	Loss of a small area of a habitat in Hong Kong would have an impact of low magnitude. However, birds (Little Ringed Plover, Plain Prinia and Zitting Cisticola) are utilizing this grassland for nesting and foraging, so impacts will be higher.
Overall Impact Severity	The area to be lost is small, especially in comparison to the total in Hong Kong, and species diversity is very low, therefore habitat loss considered to be of Low – Moderate Ecological Significance.

Table 5.38: Direct ecological impacts to Channelised Watercourses without mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Channelised Watercourses – TKO Area 137
Habitat Quality	Channelised watercourse at of Low Ecological value because of nature of channel (concrete-lined), pollution and low ecological linkage to other wetland habitats.
Species	Only common species recorded in this habitat
Size/Abundance	A small area of 0.15 ha would be affected.
Duration	Loss of habitat would be permanent. Impacts to water quality would be short term and temporary.
Reversibility	Impacts by way of habitat loss would be permanent. Impacts to water quality would be temporary.
Magnitude	Low.
Overall Impact Severity	Overall impact of this habitat loss would be of Low Significance.

Table 5.39: Potential ecological impacts to Wasteground without mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Wasteground – TKO Area 137
Habitat Quality	Habitat of low ecological value.
Species	Very few species recorded in this habitat; Little Ringed Plover recorded in this habitat within the Study Area, but some 300m away from the Project Site
Size/Abundance	An area of 0.96 ha would be lost
Duration	Habitat loss would be permanent. Human disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat would be permanent. Human disturbance would be permanent.
Magnitude	Loss of a small area of a habitat which is common in the Study Area (and elsewhere in Hong Kong) would have an impact of low magnitude.
Overall Impact Severity	The area to be lost is very small, especially in comparison to the total in the Study Area and elsewhere in Hong Kong, and species diversity is very low, therefore habitat loss considered to be of Very Low Ecological Significance.

Table 5.40: Potential ecological impacts to Urban/ Residential Areas without mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Urban/Residential Areas – Kai Tak Runway and Freight Pier Barging Facilities
Habitat Quality	Habitat of low ecological value.
Species	Very few species recorded in this habitat.
Size/Abundance	A large area of Urban/Residential Area would be either lost.
Duration	Habitat loss would be permanent. Human disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat would be permanent. Human disturbance would be permanent.
Magnitude	Loss of a small area of a habitat which is common in the Study Area (and elsewhere in Hong Kong) would have an impact of low magnitude.
Overall Impact Severity	The area to be lost is very small, especially in comparison to the total in the Study Area and elsewhere in Hong Kong, and species diversity is very low, therefore habitat loss considered to be of Very Low Ecological Significance.

Marine

Table 5.41: Direct ecological impacts of dredging the benthic habitats without mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Benthic Habitats – Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility
Habitat Quality	Low for benthic, subtidal and intertidal habitats
Species	Small and isolated colonies of the hard coral Oulastrea crispata. Generally diversity and abundance is low.
Size/Abundance	Temporary loss of 4.65 ha on seabed due to dredging.
Duration	Short term.
Reversibility	Temporary and reversible.
Magnitude	Minor
Overall Impact Severity	The area to be temporarily lost is very small, especially in comparison to the total in the Study Area and elsewhere in Hong Kong, and species diversity is very low, therefore temporary habitat loss considered to be of Low Ecological Significance.

5.6.6 Cumulative Impacts of Habitat Loss/Fragmentation

5.6.6.1 Cumulative Impacts

The Study Area covers a large portion of the central New Territories and Kowloon where several major development projects have been completed or are in various stages of implementation. Included in these projects are several other rail projects and extensive redevelopment of the former Kai Tak Airport, all located in highly urban areas subject to high levels of disturbance. Given the scale and integration with existing infrastructure, it is considered that the additional impacts of the SCL (TAW – HUH) and the supplementary works sites associated with the SCL (TAW – HUH) will have a negligible effect overall on the cumulative impacts of development across the Study Area.

5.6.6.2 Fragmentation

Due to the underground nature of much of the SCL (TAW – HUH) rail link, and the location of associated structures in urban and residential areas it is not considered that the SCL (TAW-HUH) will impose any significant cumulative fragmentation impact on habitats in the area.

5.6.7 Impacts to Species of Conservation Importance

5.6.7.1 Areas along Main Alignment

The following sections describe the impact severity for each species of conservation importance found within the immediate vicinity of SCL (TAW – HUH) and its associated facilities.

Table 5.42: Potential ecological impacts to Species of Conservation Importance within all Study Areas (both along the alignment and off-site Work Areas) without mitigation measures

Species/Group	Locations/ Habitats Recorded in Study Area	Rarity/ HK Status	Impact	Severity of impact without mitigation
Mammals
Bats – Japanese Pipistrelle Pipistrellus abramus and one unknown bat	Unknown species, temporary roost located in Secondary Woodland above the proposed Hin Keng Portal entrance. Japanese Pipistrelle foraging around streetlights	Japanese Pipistrelle is widespread in Hong Kong (Shek 2006).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Short-nosed Fruit Bat Cynopterus sphinx	Roosting in Chinese Fan Palms at former Tai Hom Village. No young observed, but this is likely to be a breeding group.	Wide distribution in Hong Kong (Shek 2006)	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta	In plantation close to refuse collection point at Hin Keng.	Wide distribution in Hong Kong (Shek 2006).	Small loss of habitat around LCSD refuse collection point at Hin Keng.	Low.
Pallas’s Squirrel Callisciurus erythraeus	Plantation close to Hin Keng.	Fairly wide distribution in Hong Kong (Shek 2006).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
East Asian Porcupine Hystrix brachyura	Evidence in secondary woodland above the Hin Keng portal.	Widespread (Shek 2006)	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Birds (all birds protected under WAPO)
Little Egret Egretta garzetta ^w	Artificial ard shore at Kai Tak.	Abundant resident	Outside of Project Site areas – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Black Kite Milvus migrans	Overhead at Hin Keng Portal area KAT and. Kai Tak Runway Barging facility and TKO Area 137	Abundant winter visitor and resident.	Outside of Project Site area, often seen flying overhead– no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela	Overhead Woodland.	Uncommon resident.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius	Wasteground in KAT site, Kai Tak Runway Barging facility and TKO Area 137	Locally common winter visitor and passage migrant, scarce breeding species.	Direct impacts by way of loss of breeding site at Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility.	Low.
Black-capped Kingfisher Halcyon pileata	Woodland above Hin Keng Portal.	Locally common winter visitor and passage migrant. Occasional summer records.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Abundant winter visitor, scare in summer.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Great Egret Egretta alba	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Common to abundant all year.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Uncommon to common resident.	Loss of foraging habitat.	Low.
Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Common to abundant resident.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Uncommon resident in coastal and offshore islands.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Abundant winter visitor with small numbers on passage.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Common spring passage migrant, scarce in autumn and winter.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Abundant spring passage migrant, scare in autumn and winter.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Uncommon to common in spring, scarce in autumn and winter, with isolated summer records.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Passage migrant, common in spring and uncommon in autumn and scarce in winter.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Common and widespread passage migrant and winter visitor, uncommon in summer.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Common winter visitor and passage migrant; rare breeding species.
White-shouldered Starling Sturnus sinensis	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Common passage migrant, scarce, localized breeding summer visitor and winter visitor.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Collared Crow Corvus torquatus	Kai Tak Runway Barging facility	Uncommon and localised Resident.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Red-billed Starling Sturnus sericeus	Urban/Residential Area close to Tai Wai Hin Keng Section.	Abundant but localised winter visitor.	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Amphibians
Hong Kong Cascade Frog Amolops hongkongensis	Stream (Tei Lung Hau and Ka Tin Court).	Common & Widespread in protected areas (Chan et al. 2005).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Lesser Spiny Frog Paa exilispinosa	Stream (Tei Lung Hau and Ka Tin Court).	Common & Widespread in protected areas (Chan et al. 2005).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Fish
Predaceous Chub Parazacco spilurus	Stream (Tei Lung Hau and Ka Tin Court).	Common and widespread (Lee et al. 2004)	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Dragonflies
Indochinese Copperwing Mnais mneme	Stream (Tei Lung Hau)	Common in woodland streams in New Territories (Wilson 2004).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
White-banded Shadowdamsel Protostica taipokauensis	Stream (Tei Lung Hau).	Common in permanent streams in mature woodland in Hong Kong (Wilson 2004).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Emerald Cascader Zygonis iris	Stream (Tei Lung Hau).	Abundant. Widespread in moderately clean, fast flowing forest stream in Hong Kong (Wilson 2004).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Coral
Oulastrea crispata	Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility	O. crispata mainly inhabit subtidal turbid water, attached to wave washed rock; and the abundance is generally not high within its distribution range (Veron 2000).	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts.	Not Applicable.
Plants
Hong Kong Pavetta Pavetta hongkongensis	Secondary woodland (woodland to the southwest of Tei Lung Hau)	Common (Xing et al. 2000)	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts	Not Applicable.
Aquilaria sinensis	Secondary woodland (woodland at Tei Lung Hau) and plantation area at the proposed Hin Keng Portal	Common (Xing et al. 2000)	Direct impact by felling the recorded saplings	Low.
Cibotium barometz	Secondary woodland (woodland at Tei Lung Hau)	Common (Xing et al. 2000)	Outside of Project Site area – no direct impacts	Not Applicable.

Mammals

Two mammal species are found in the vicinity of proposed works for the SCL (TAW- HUH). A troop of Rhesus Macaques were observed in the plantation around the proposed Hin Keng portal and Short-nosed Fruit Bat seen in Chinese Fan Palms at former Tai Hom Village close to the proposed DHS site.

Table 5.43: Potential ecological impacts to Protected Mammals without mitigation measures

Criteria	Ecological Impacts to Rhesus Macaque	Ecological Impacts to Short-nosed Fruit Bat
Habitat Quality	The species uses a wide diversity of habitats in Hong Kong, and much of the wider Study Area provides potential habitat.	The species uses a wide diversity of habitats in Hong Kong, and much of the wider Study Area provides potential habitat. It shows a preference for roosting in Chinese Fan Palms, a typical ornamental tree planted in many urban locations.
Species	Rhesus Macaque is protected species under WAPO.	Short-nosed Fruit Bat is protected species under WAPO.
Size/Abundance	Up to 50 have been sighted on any one survey visit. This species is highly mobile and will have a large home range.	Seven individuals seen in a tent roost at former Tai Hom Village.
Duration	Loss of habitat would be permanent.	Human disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Permanent, irreversible habitat loss.	Human disturbance would be permanent.
Magnitude	Number of individuals impacted likely to be small relative to total population in Hong Kong, so impacts considered being of relatively low magnitude.	Disturbance to a species which is common in the urban environment in Hong Kong would have an impact of very low magnitude.
Overall Impact Severity	The species is common in Hong Kong, and the number of individuals in the Project Site is small, and the group is likely to have a large home range, therefore impacts considered to be of Low Ecological Significance.	Chinese Fan Palms are common within the urban areas of Hong Kong and it is considered that the bat roost could easily relocate to other palms in the nearby area and there impacts are considered to be of Very Low Ecological Significance.

Birds

Little Ringed Plover, a bird species of conservation importance (as of Fellowes et al. 2002), was recorded within the footprint of aboveground works for the Station site at the former Kai Tak Airport.

Table 5.44: Potential Ecological Impacts to birds of conservation importance without mitigation measures

Criteria	Ecological Impacts to Little Ringed Plover
Habitat Quality	Low. This species shows a preference for low vegetated areas including various area of colonizing ground.
Species	Little Ringed Plover species is listed by Fellowes et al. (2002) as a species of Local Concern on account of its restrictedness in breeding and/or roosting.
Size/Abundance	Two individuals recorded on Kai Tak Runway Barging facility wasteground. Although the number of individuals recorded is small, this is a localised breeding species in Hong Kong.
Duration	Loss of habitat would be permanent.
Reversibility	Permanent, irreversible habitat loss.
Magnitude	The Study Area contains a large amount of habitat similar to that in which the birds were recorded. The impact from the loss of these wasteground/ Urban/Residential Area is therefore considered to be of low magnitude.
Overall Impact Severity	Loss of habitat for a breeding population may be significant for this species, but large amounts of similar habitat are present in Hong Kong and the loss of wasteground is not considered to be important. The impact is therefore considered to be of Low Ecological Significance.

Plants

Saplings of the tree species Aquilaria sinensis, which is of conservation importance, was recorded during surveys. It is commonly found in lowland forest and fung shui woods in Hong Kong.

Table5.44a. Potential Ecological Impacts to Aquilaria sinensis in the absence of mitigation measures

Criteria	Impacts to Aquilaria sinensis
Habitat Quality	Commonly found in lowland forest and fung shui woods in Hong Kong.
Species	Common tree species in Hong Kong (Xing et al. 2000), but listed as “Near Threatened”. Recorded in China Plant Red Data Book and Illustrations of Rare & Endangered Plants in Guangdong Province (SCIB & AFCD 2003). Category II nationally protected species in China (SCIB & AFCD 2003) and also locally protected by law (Cap. 586).
Size/Abundance	Sapling individuals of Aquilaria sinensis were identified in plantation woodland near the Hin Keng Portal
Duration	Impact on the identified individuals of tree species would be permanent.
Reversibility	Trees can be transplanted or replaced but need time to grow to achieve their full ecological function and structural complexity.
Magnitude	Magnitude of impacts would be low in local scale and Hong Kong context as all are locally common species.
Overall Impact Severity	Low Ecological Significance

5.6.7.2 Off-Site Works Areas

Birds

Two bird species of conservation importance (as of Fellowes et al. 2002) were recorded holding breeding territories in the Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility area. These were Zitting Cisticola and Little Ringed Plover.

Table 5.45: Potential ecological impacts to birds of conservation importance without mitigation measures

Criteria	Ecological Impacts to Little Ringed Plover	Ecological Impacts to Zitting Cisticola
Habitat Quality	The species is an uncommon breeding species in the Kowloon area and is commoner in the north western New Territories. Much of the wider Study Area provides potential habitat for this species.	Zitting Cisticola has a restricted range in Hong Kong and is a rare breeding species.
Species	Little Ringed Plover is listed by Fellowes et al. (2002) as a species of Local Concern on account of its restrictedness in breeding.	Zitting Cisticola is listed by Fellowes et al. (2002) as a species of Local Concern.
Size/Abundance	Two individuals recorded on Kai Tak Runway Barging facility wasteground displayed breeding behaviour. Although the number of individuals recorded is small, this is a localised breeding species in Hong Kong.	Up to six breeding territories were observed during surveys. This species is usually recorded breeding in areas of the northwest New Territories or hillside grasslands
Duration	Loss of habitat would be permanent.	Loss of habitat would be permanent.
Reversibility	Permanent, irreversible habitat loss.	Permanent, irreversible habitat loss.
Magnitude	The Study Area contains a large amount of habitat similar to that in which the birds were recorded. The species is adapted to utilising flat poorly-drained areas recently abandoned or in the interim prior to construction. The impact from the loss of the grassland interface with bare ground is therefore considered to be of low magnitude.	The Study Area contains a large amount of habitat similar to that in which the birds were recorded. The impact from the loss of the grassland is therefore considered to be of low magnitude.
Overall Impact Severity	Loss of habitat for this breeding population not significant for this species, as large amounts of similar habitat are present in Hong Kong and the loss of wasteground is not considered to be important. The impact is therefore considered to be of Low Significance.	Loss of this breeding population unlikely to be significant for this species, as large amounts of similar habitat are present in Hong Kong and the loss of wasteground is not considered to be important. The impact is therefore considered to be of Low Significance.

5.6.7.3 Summary of Impacts

Table 5.46: Summary table of potential construction and operational impacts for both sites along alignment and off-site work areas

Activity	Receiver	Potential Impacts	Nature of Impacts	Potential Severity	Mitigation Required
Construction Phase
Habitat Loss (Project Sites)	Habitats affected will include 0.21ha of channelised watercourse 4.59 ha grassland, and 7.70 ha plantation, 0.96 ha of wasteground and 56.30 ha urban/ residential area	loss of flora within the affected habitats, Change in fauna distribution, activity, and loss of breeding/ roosting site	Permanent, irreversible.	Minor in terms of ecological impact. Low impacts to Aquilaria sinensis saplings at Hin Keng Portal	No Vegetation survey and transplantation should be conducted at the temporary works areas of Hin Keng Portal prior to construction to avoid impacts to saplings of Aquilaria sinensis
Tree Felling- Overall	Plantation trees will be affected (transplanted or felled).	Removal of mostly non-native plantation trees	Permanent, large scale.	Generally low in terms of ecological impact. Trees used by birds nesting or contain bat roosts will have Major severity.	No. As ecological impact due to tree loss is considered not significant, no ecological mitigation is required though some compensatory planting and tree transplanting are required (see Section 6 on landscape and visual aspect).
Tree Felling – Former Tai Hom Tsuen	Plantation trees to be affected (transplanted, felled or removed).	Removal of non-native plantation trees	Permanent, large scale.	Generally Minor in terms of ecological impact.	No
Water Quality	Habitats (Tei Lung Hau Stream, coastal waters, channelised watercourses) and associated fauna	Suspended Solids, lowering of water quality through pollution events and site run-off.	Temporary, reversible, small scale.	Minor	Yes
Disturbance	Fauna	Changes in local distribution and activity.	Temporary, reversible, small scale.	Minor	No
Hydrological Conditions	Lion Rock Country Park and Tei Lung Hau stream	Changes in water table and/or watercourses	Permanent, irreversible.	Minor	No
Sediment removal	Marine Benthic Fauna	Changes in local distribution and activity.	Permanent, irreversible.	Minor	No
Operational Phase
Disturbance	Flora and Fauna	Changes in local distribution and activity.	Temporary, reversible, small scale	Minor	No

5.7 Mitigation Measures

5.7.1 Areas along the Main Alignment

Where potential ecological impacts are considered to be of moderate or high significance, mitigation measures are required to reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. In accordance with the EIAO, these measures follow the principles of avoidance, minimization and compensation (in that order of preference).

During the Project, both construction and operational phases, areas of low ecological value have been targeted as areas of development to avoid any impacts on ecologically sensitive areas.

5.7.1.1 Habitat Loss

The Hin Keng portal is located in an area where direct habitat loss will affect only areas which are currently considered to be of low – moderate ecological value. The land take in this area has been reduced in earlier consultations to avoid any direct impacts to the Tei Lung Hau Stream and the Secondary Woodland on the hillside above this. Within the gazetted land take area for the portal site, includes 0.07 ha of natural watercourse and 0.87 ha of secondary woodland though it must be stressed that neither of these two habitat types will be impacted by the portal construction or operation.

A total of 7.70ha of plantation will be lost to the construction of the project in both the sites along the alignments and at off-site areas. Much of this habitat is considered to be of low ecological value and no specific mitigation measures are proposed for ecological purposes, however there will be specific checks for roosting bats in any individuals of Livistona chinensis prior to transplantation. The landscape and visual mitigation measures details for tree felling are discussed in Section 6.12 and are further discussed in the Section 5.7.1.2.

Aquilaria sinensis was recorded in plantation at Hin Keng Portal, and as such, a detailed vegetation survey will be conducted in the Hin Keng Portal areas to locate and enumerate individuals of Aquilaria sinensis which could potentially be affected by construction and operation of the Portal. Should any individuals be located within the footprint of potential impacts, then a receptor area for transplanted individuals will also be identified and assessed for its suitability. A transplantation plan will then be drawn up and details of the transplantation methodologies and programme along with post-transplantation monitoring will be included.

The seven stations and associated structures are located either on previously developed land or are extensions to existing structures. It is considered that these areas are of low ecological value and, as such, no mitigation other than good site practice is required.

In addition site compounds or materials and equipment storage yards for the construction phase should utilize any areas of existing hard standing to further reduce habitat loss.

5.7.1.2 Tree Felling

Recommendations have been made following the review of the tree surveys to either retain or transplant trees with ecological value or potential at several of these sites.

There still will be a certain amount of felling required. Many plantation trees line the infrastructure in the vicinities of stations and associated structures. Many of the trees affected are landscape species; these are often introduced exotic species, with little ecological value, and have been planted for aesthetic appeal. The ecological impacts arising from the loss of these trees are not considered to be significant, however some compensation planting and transplanting of trees will be required only for mitigating landscape and visual impacts (See Section 6 on the landscape and visual aspects).

At the proposed DHS Site, the former Tai Hom Village site, trees will be affected either by transplantation, felling or removal. Some trees, including twelve relatively large specimen trees of Ficus microcarpa and Ficus superba var. japonica, with high amenity value and survival rate will be transplanted to a suitable receptor site, while those trees with low amenity value and/ or low survival rate after transplant will be felled. Tree transplantation implemented and suitable receptor site will be selected for optimum vegetation growth and establishment. Location for compensation planting will be finalized after the agreement and approval from the relevant government department in the later stage. The landscape and visual mitigation measure details are discussed in Section 6.12.

Provision of suitable species of native trees and shrubs in the landscape planting and around the boundaries of former Tai Hom Village and other above ground locations will provide additional foraging habitat for urban bird and bat species; inclusion of fruiting species (for example Chinese Fan Palm, Melia azederach, Celtis sinensis and Ficus microcarpa) in this mix would ensure that foraging habitat is available throughout the year. This will provide additional benefits for other frugivorous species present in the area.

Any individuals of Livistona chinensis should be checked for the presence of Fruit Bat roosting. One roost of Short-nosed Fruit Bat Cynopterus sphinx has already been identified during ecological surveys at Diamond Hill (former Tai Hom Village).

Precautionary checks of the vegetation for the presence of nesting birds should be carried out before vegetation clearance by a suitably experienced ecologist.

Tree compensation will be made according to ETWB TCW No. 3/2006 as far as practicable. This will be further addressed with relevant government departments and discussed in a later stage. However, the location of reception sites for the remaining trees shall be finalized after the agreement and approval from the relevant government department in the later stage.

5.7.1.3 Water Quality and Hydrology

Indirect water impact to any wetland habitats or wetland fauna should easily be avoided by implementing water control measures (ETWB TCW No. 5/2005, Protection of natural streams/ rivers from adverse impacts arising from construction works to avoid direct or indirect impacts on the Tei Lung Hau Sream) and good site practices (further details are discussed in Section 5.7.1.4).

The tunnel alignment at this section of the works has been revised as to mitigate the construction risks associated with Drill & Blast tunneling of Lion Rock Tunnel at the southern side. As a result, the vertical separation between the bottom of natural stream and tunnel crown is revised to about 6m.

Canopy tubes will be installed from the shaft structure and extend the full width of the stream. These canopy tubes with sieves along its length will be grouted and form a stable and low permeable ‘umbrella’ for further mining works to be carried out in stages. The canopy tubes beneath the stream area are within Completely Decomposed Granite (CDG) stratum and thus the proposed construction method will be effective in terms of minimizing the draw down of water table.

In terms of time frame, the mining works beneath the natural stream is expected to take two weeks and once the temporary lining is fully installed after the two week period, risk of water inflow is fully dissipated. Similar construction method has been widely used in Hong Kong, especially for subway construction beneath busy roads within urban area.

Further details for hydrological mitigation can be seen in Section 3.2.4.

5.7.1.4 Good Work Practices

In order to demonstrate ecological awareness and to minimize the risk of indirect impacts from water pollution, a series of mitigation measures should be implemented by site staff throughout the construction and future maintenance of the SCL Alignment and associated facilities. These are as follows:

· Erection of temporary geotextile silt or sediment fences/oil traps around any earth-moving works to trap any sediments and prevent them from entering watercourses in particular the Tei Lung Hau stream;

· Avoidance of soil storage against trees or close to waterbodies in particular the Tei Lung Hau stream;

· Delineation of works site by erecting hoardings to prevent encroachment onto adjacent habitats and fence off areas which have some ecological value e.g. Tei Lung Hau Stream and the adjoining secondary woodland, tunnel on hill at top of slope stabilisation works;

· No on-site burning of waste;

· Waste and refuse in appropriate receptacles.

5.7.2 Off-Site Works Areas

Where potential ecological impacts are considered to be of moderate or high significance, mitigation measures are required to reduce these impacts to acceptable levels. In accordance with the EIAO, these measures follow the principles of avoidance, minimization and compensation (in that order of preference).

During the Study Period, selection of off-site works sites has been continually reviewed in order to reduce ecological impacts and avoid any ecological sensitive areas.

5.7.2.1 Habitat Loss

The off-site works areas have been sited either on Urban/ Residential Areas, wasteground or other areas of hard standing. It is considered that these areas are of low ecological value and, as such, no mitigation is required.

5.7.2.2 Tree Felling and Vegetation Clearance

Recommendations have been made following the review of the tree survey to either retain or transplant trees with ecological value or potential at several of these sites. There is still potentially a certain amount of felling required. Many of the trees affected are landscape species, which are often introduced exotic species of little ecological value that have been planted for aesthetic appeal. The ecological impacts arising from the loss of these trees is not considered to be significant; however, some compensation planting and transplanting of trees will be required for landscape and visual impacts (See Section 6.12).

Breeding pairs of Little Ringed Plover, Zitting Cisticola and Plain Prinia were observed in the tall grassland and at the fringes of the old Kai Tak runway. Nesting birds would be impacted by tree felling and vegetation removal including cutting of grassland. Precautionary checks of the vegetation for the presence of nesting birds should be carried out before vegetation clearance by a suitably experienced ecologist.

5.7.2.3 Water Quality

Indirect water impact to any wetland habitats or wetland fauna should be easily avoided by implementing water control measures and good site practices (further details shown in Section 5.7.2.5).

5.7.2.4 Marine Ecology

Sediment Removal – Precautionary measures

Where appropriate, areas of dredging should be reduced to avoid any unnecessary impacts of benthic fauna.

All of the recorded species are common and are not species of conservation importance, except one species of hard coral, Oulastrea crispata (Family Faviidae) was observed in the surveys. This species is characterized by its encrusting growth form and small size of only a few centimetres across. O. crispata mainly grows on rocky substrates in turbid water with high sedimentation, which is usually unfavourable habitat for most hard coral species (Veron 2000). A total of 17 colonies were recorded ranging from 4 to 24cm²; all colonies were associated with large boulders of diameter ~50 to 150cm. Given that this coral species is common and widespread, and is tolerant of poor water quality, it is not considered to be an ecological sensitive receiver (Maunsell AECOM 2008).

To reduce impacts of the sediment removal, installation of silt curtains and the use of a closed grab dredger will help to reduce indirect impacts of suspended solids on sessile benthic and intertidal fauna, and to minimize potential water quality impacts.

These proposed water quality control measures are expected to minimize ecological impacts on marine environment and associated wildlife. The coral species’ recorded within the Project Areas are in very low coverage and abundance, and can tolerate the turbid waters of Victoria Harbour and western Hong Kong and its high levels of sediment. Indirect impact on existing coral colonies and other macrofauna of the benthic environment during the dredging activities are considered to be minor.

5.7.2.5 Good Work Practices

In order to demonstrate ecological awareness and to minimize the risk of indirect impacts from water pollution, a series of mitigation measures should be implemented by site staff throughout the construction and operation of each site. Such measures include the containment of silt runoff within the site boundary, the containment of contaminated soils for removal from the site, appropriate storage of chemicals and chemical waste away from sites of ecological value and the provision of sanitary facilities for on-site workers. Adoption of such measures should permit waste to be suitably contained within the site for subsequent removal and appropriate disposal. These are as follows:

· Erection of temporary geotextile silt or sediment fences/oil traps around any earth-moving works to trap any sediments and prevent them from entering watercourses;

· Avoidance of soil storage against trees or close to waterbodies;

· Delineation of works site to prevent encroachment onto adjacent habitats and fence off areas which have some ecological value;

· No on-site burning of wasteland; and

· Waste and refuse in appropriate receptacles.

5.7.3 Residual Impacts

5.7.3.1 Terrestrial Residual Impacts

With the construction and operational stage mitigation measures described earlier, residual impacts resulting from the proposed works would largely be limited to the loss of relatively low ecological value habitats. Along the SCL (TAW-HUH), these would include 0.06ha channelised watercourse, 2.84ha grassland, 7.64ha plantation and 48.66ha urban/residential area. For the off-site work areas a total of 1.75ha grassland, 0.15ha channelised watercourse, 0.06ha of plantation, 0.96ha of wasteground and 7.64ha of urban/ residential area would be directly impacted. Other impacts resulting from the construction and operation of the Project are considered to be minor and acceptable once mitigation measures are implemented. Residual impacts on terrestrial ecology caused from the Project are therefore considered as very minor and acceptable.

Table 5.47: Total habitat loss for Project Sites along alignment and off-site works areas.

Project Site	Grassland	Plantation	Urban/ Residential Area	Channelised Watercourse	Sea (Benthic Habitat during dredging)	Wasteground	Total Area
Above Ground Work Sites and Stations along alignment including DHS (along alignment)	2.84	7.64	48.66	0.06	0.00	0.00	59.20
Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility (off-site)	1.75	0.06	3.92	0.00	4.65	0.00	10.37
TKO Area 137(off-site)	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.15	0.00	0.96	1.11
Freight Pier Barging Facility(off-site)	-	-	3.72	-	-	-	3.72
Cumulative total area of habitat loss (both areas along alignment and off-site locations)	4.59	7.70	56.30	0.21	4.65	0.96	74.40
Habitat Value	Low and Low-moderate	Low, Low-Moderate	Low	Low	Low-moderate	Low

Key: - = not recorded in this Project Site/Work Area

5.7.3.2 Marine Residual Impacts

With the effective implementation of mitigation measures proposed, residual impacts to marine ecology are expected to be relatively minor. There will be no direct loss of artificial intertidal habitats. The most substantial residual impact would therefore be the loss of 4.65ha soft bottom benthic habitat through the dredging at Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility, which is unavoidable. However, this habitat and the associated fauna are not considered of particular importance in terms of ecological value. Therefore, residual impacts resulting from the proposed marine works are considered as minimal and acceptable.

5.8 HOM and HUH

HOM and HUH are located in the urban areas of Kowloon. Both stations are surrounded by urban/ residential areas of habitat and flora and fauna are limited to typical plantation species and common birds species typically associated with the urban environment (see Appendix 5.2A), none of which are of conservation concern. The ecological value of these sites is low as a result of the highly disturbed nature of these areas and lack of suitable habitat for faunal species to exploit.

5.9 Summary

The Project has avoided impacts on recognized sites of conservation importance (e.g. SSSIs, Country Parks and Marine Parks), and other ecological sensitive areas (e.g. Tei Lung Hau Stream and secondary woodland). Literature reviews of existing information with supplement findings from recent field surveys identified that most of the terrestrial and marine habitats within the Study Area are of generally low ecological value.

Terrestrial habitats within the Study Areas are largely Urban/ Residential Areas with high disturbance and low ecological value. Habitats affected will include 4.59ha grassland, 7.7ha plantation, 56.30ha urban/residential area, 0.21ha of channelized water course, 0.96 ha of wasteground, and 4.65ha benthic habitat (during dredging). Loss of secondary woodland and natural stream has been avoided by the Project.

Large number of trees will be affected at these above-ground and off-site sites. The affected trees are mostly non-native plantation species with little ecological value, nevertheless, compensatory planting and tree transplantation are required for landscape and visual aspect.

Marine habitats within the Study Area (Kai Tak Runway Barging Facility and Freight Pier Barging Facility) are of low of ecological value due to their highly artificial and disturbed nature. Species diversity and abundance in these habitats were low and no rare or restricted species was recorded. A single species of common hard coral (Oulastrea crispata) which is common and widespread in other Hong Kong waters was recorded within the assessment area.

Direct and indirect ecological impacts arising from the Project during the construction and operational phase have been identified and evaluated. Most impacts are considered to be of low significance. Other indirect impacts arising from the Project would be temporary and considered as negligible in nature. Overall, no significant and unacceptable ecological impacts to terrestrial, freshwater or marine resources were anticipated in this assessment.

5.10 References

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