7. LanDSCAPE and VISUAL IMPACTS

7.2 Environmental Legislation, Standards and Guidelines

7.2.1 The following Legislation, Standards, Guidelines and Criteria are applicable to the evaluation of landscape and visual impacts associated with the construction and operation of the project:

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

· EIAO Guidance Note 8/2010 on Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment under the EIAO;

· ETWB TCW No. 10/2013 on Tree Preservation;

· ETWB TCW No. 2/2004 on Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features;

· ETWB TCW No. 29/2004 on Registration of Old and Valuable Trees, and Guidelines for their Preservation;

· Highways Department Technical Circulars, HyD TC No. 3/2008 on Independent Vetting of Tree Works under the Maintenance of Highways Department;

· Highways Department Guidelines, HQ/GN/13 on Interim Guidelines for Tree Transplanting Works under Highways Department’s Vegetation Maintenance Ambit;

· Highways Department Guidelines, HQ/GN/15 – Guidelines for Greening Works along Highways;

· Requirements for Handover of Vegetation to Highways Department (2013 version);

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

· ETWB TCW No. 02/2013 – Greening on Footbridges and Flyovers;

· GEO Publication No. 1/2011 - Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment for Slopes (2011);

· Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) and;

· Identification of potential impact receivers including landscape resources, landscape characters and the zones of visual influence. The sensitivity of the landscape framework and its ability to accommodate change are focused.

· Identification of probable sources of landscape and visual impacts resulting from the project including noise mitigation measures (NMM) and their “Magnitude”;

· Assessment of the resulting Impact Significance Threshold of landscape and visual impacts;

· Identification of landscape and visual mitigation measures; and

· Final assessment of the significance of residual impacts.

Landscape Impact Assessment

7.3.2 Landscape and visual impacts have been assessed separately for the construction and operation phases.

7.3.3 The assessment of landscape impacts has involved the following procedures:-

(a) Identification of the baseline landscape resources and landscape character found within the assessment area – this is achieved by a combination of desktop studies and site surveys. Landscape elements that are in consideration include:-

· Local topography;

· Woodland extent and type;

· Other vegetation types;

· Built form;

· Patterns of settlement;

· Land use;

· Scenic spots;

· Details of local materials, styles, streetscapes, etc.;

· Prominent watercourses; and

· Cultural and religious identity.

(b) Assessment of the degree of sensitivity of the landscape resources – each LR and LCA is rated at a different level of sensitivity, (low, medium or high). The sensitivity depends on the following issues:

· Condition, quality and maturity of the LRs / LCAs;

· Importance and scarcity of special landscape elements (scarcity being of either local, regional, national or global importance);

· Ability of the LRs / LCAs to accommodate change; and

· Statutory or regulatory requirements relating to the LRs/ LCAs.

High:	Important landscape or landscape resource of particularly distinctive character or high importance, sensitive to relatively small changes.
Medium:	Landscape or landscape resource of moderately valued landscape characteristics reasonably tolerant to change.
Low:	Landscape or landscape resource, the nature of which is largely tolerant to change.

(d) Identification of potential sources of landscape impacts – these are the various elements of the construction works and operational procedures that will generate landscape impacts.

(e) Identification of the magnitude of landscape impacts – the magnitude of impacts depends on a number of factors as follows:-

· Scale of the carriageway structures and associated facilities;

· Compatibility of the structures with the surrounding environment;

· Duration of impacts (temporary or permanent) under construction and during operation phases; and,

· Reversibility of change.

Large:	The landscape or landscape resource will suffer from a major change.
Intermediate:	The landscape or landscape resource will suffer from a moderate change.
Small:	The landscape or landscape resource will suffer from slight or barely perceptible changes.
Negligible:	The landscape or landscape resource will suffer from no discernible change.

(f) Identification of potential landscape mitigation measures – these may take the form of the followings measures:-

· Adopting alternative design or revisions to the basic engineering design to prevent or minimize negative impacts;

· Remedial measures include colour or textural treatment of the carriageway; and

· Compensatory measures such as implementation of landscape design measures to compensate for unavoidable negative impacts and to attempt to generate potentially positive long term impacts.

(g) Prediction of the significance of landscape impacts before and after the implementation of the mitigation measures – the significant thresholds are defined as follows:-

Substantial:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal will cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality.
Moderate:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal will cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality.
Slight:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal will cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality.
Insubstantial:	No discernible change in the existing landscape quality.

(h) Prediction of Significance Threshold – the analysis of the landscape and visual impacts during construction and operation are presented in the following form of matrix as illustrated in Table 7-1 to ascertain the Significance Threshold. The impacts may be beneficial or adverse.

Table 7-1 Significance Thresholds

Magnitude of Change	Sensitivity
		Low	Medium	High
	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate / Substantial Impact	Substantial Impact
	Intermediate	Slight / Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate / Substantial Impact
	Small	Slight Impact	Slight / Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact
	Negligible	Insubstantial Impact	Insubstantial Impact	Insubstantial Impact

(i) The significances of landscape impacts before and after mitigation are recorded – this comparison helps to illustrate the benefits of the mitigation measures. This is ranked as substantial, moderate, slight or insubstantial. The impacts can be beneficial or adverse.

Substantial:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal will cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing landscape/visual quality
Moderate:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal will cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing landscape/visual quality
Slight:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal will cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing landscape/visual quality
Insubstantial:	No discernible change in the existing landscape/visual quality

Tree Survey Methodology

7.3.4 In accordance with Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No. 10/2013, all existing trees whose trunk diameters measure 95mm or more at a height of 1.3m above ground level were identified. Every tree surveyed individually is recorded with the following information:

· Species

· Height

· Crown spread

· Trunk diameter

· Tree form amenity value

· Health condition

· Survival rate after transplanting

· Special features

Visual Impact Assessment

7.3.5 The baseline survey of all views towards the proposed new carriageway structures and associated facilities is undertaken by identifying:

· The visual envelope (VE) and zone of visual influence (ZVI) may contain areas which fall wholly, partially within views, or non-visible from the proposed development. Indirect effects such as offsite construction activities were also considered; and

· The visual sensitive receivers (VSRs) within the visual envelope whose views will be affected by the proposed development. For the purpose of this study, receivers are grouped into the following categories:

Residential:	The most sensitive of receivers due to the high potential of intrusion on the visual amenity and the quality of life.
Occupational:	Less sensitive than above due to visual amenity considered less important within the work environment.
Leisure:	Including all areas apart from the above, e.g. public parks, recreation grounds, footpaths, etc. Sensitivity of this group depends on the transitory nature of the receiver, e.g. sitting in a park. Also considered is the degree of view or glimpsed views.
Transportation:	Those people who will view the NMM’s from vehicles or while walking along the road.

7.3.6 Same as the landscape impact assessment, each of the VSRs is rated in different magnitude in the categories of sensitivity to visual intrusion (low, medium or high), magnitude of change (negligible, small, intermediate or large), and significance threshold before and after mitigation (substantial, moderate, slight or insubstantial).

7.3.7 The sensitivity of each group is also influenced by its location and direction of view relative to the scheme. Typical viewpoints from each of the visually sensitive groups are identified and their views described.

7.3.8 The magnitude of changes of each VSR is affected by the following factors:

(a) Scale of the proposed road works and associated facilities;

(b) Compatibility of the project with the surrounding landscape forming the view;

(d) Viewing distance;

(e) Duration of impacts under construction and operational phases;

(f) Reversibility of change; and

(g) Night glare effect.

7.3.9 The degree of visual impact is rated in a similar fashion to the landscape impacts. Impacts can be beneficial or adverse.

Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

7.3.10 The review of the relevant statutory plan has been undertaken. The planned uses shown in plans and existing conditions on site within the study area would be taken as the sensitive receivers. The assessment focuses on the areas directly affected by the proposed works. The study review covers the following information.

· Land use zonings;

· Approximate area of the land use zones to be affected by the project;

· Design and conservation intention; and

· Future outlook of the area.

Mitigation Measures

7.3.11 The identification of landscape and visual impacts assists in the recognitions of the sources of impacts. Mitigation measures should focus on the sources of impacts if possible, such as designing the proposed carriageway structures and associated facilities to blend in with the surrounding environment.

Mitigation measures may be considered under two categories:

(a) Primary mitigation measures that intrinsically comprise the identification of the location of the proposed carriageway and the design of supporting facilities through an iterative process. This form of mitigation is generally the most effective; and

(b) Secondary mitigation measures designed to specifically address the remaining (residual) adverse effects of the proposed works.

7.4 Scope and Content of the Study

7.4.1 The scope of the LVIA study shall cover the proposed road widening and associated works. The LVIA study shall address the potential landscape and visual impacts during the construction and operation of the project.

7.4.2 The assessment shall follow the criteria and guidelines for evaluating and assessing landscape and visual impacts as stated in Annexes 10 and 18 of the TM, and the EIAO Guideline Note No. 8/2010 “Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment under the EIAO”.

7.4.3 The study area for the landscape impact assessment shall include areas within a distance of 500 metres from the site boundary of the Project while the study area for the visual impact assessment shall be defined by the visual envelop of the project.

7.4.4 The layout plan for LVIA is shown in Figure 7.1.

7.5 Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

7.5.1 A review of the existing and planned development framework for the proposed works and for the surroundings is undertaken. The review of OZP includes a review of the plans, Notes and Explanatory Statements.

7.5.2 The project boundary outlined on the extracted Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) No. S/KC/28 is shown as below.

7.5.3 It is found that the project boundary falls mainly within area shown as “Road” and partly within area zoned “Industrial” (“I”), “Other Specified Uses” (“OU”) annotated “Container Related Uses”, “Residential (Group A)”. In accordance with the correspondence of Planning Department in Jan 2014, it is stated in the Notes of the OZP that the road works implemented by Government department is always permitted and no planning permission is required from the Town Planning Board. No existing and planned industrial or residential developments will be affected by the project. The proposed permanent works only encroach onto the area “Road” and “OU”. Part of the flyover is in form of the elevated structure. The existing condition reveals that the affected “OU” areas are the planter, Public Works Laboratory and public carpark. Numerous highways structures and truck roads including Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Tsing Kwai Highway, Container Port Road South and MTR viaduct – Tsuen Wan Line are surrounding the proposed flyover. Before the commencement of the construction, it is anticipated that the laboratory will be terminated; while a small portion of public carpark will be temporarily occupied as works area and permanently occupied by the proposed piers. The planter under the proposed flyover will be affected during the construction. Mitigation measures are discussed under this chapter.

7.6 Baseline Study

Identification

7.6.1 This baseline study identifies and describes the landscape resources and landscape character areas and the visual amenity within the assessment area that will be affected during the construction and operation phases of the Project.

Landscape Resources

7.6.2 Landscape resources (LRs) identified within the assessment area includes roadside planting areas with existing trees, public open spaces, and recreational grounds. The landscape resources that will be potentially affected during the construction and operation phase are described below:

(a) LR1 – Tree Planting along Tsuen Wan Road

(b) LR2 – Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

(d) LR4 – Planting at foothills of Lai King Hill

(e) LR5 – Lai King Sports Centre

(f) LR6 – Kwai Shun Street Playground

(g) LR7 – Kwai Chung Sports Ground

(h) LR8 – Landscaped Area in Kwai Fong Core Area

(i) LR9 – Kwai Yi Road Playground

(j) LR10 – Lai King Hill Road Playground

(k) LR11 – Landscape at Residential

(l) LR12 – Landscape at School, Clinic, other Public Buildings

(m) LR13 – Man-made Slope

(n) LR14 – Roadside Planting Inside Container Terminal

(o) LR15 – Planting at Highland Park

(p) LR16 – Planting at DSD Kwai Chung Industrial Wastewater Pumping Station

7.6.3 The identified landscape resources in each group are discussed in details below and presented in Figure 7.2, whereas photos of the key landscape resources are shown on Figure 7.5.

(a) LR1 – Tree Planting along Tsuen Wan Road

Existing trees found along the embankment between Tsuen Wan Road and the factory buildings in Kwai Chung industrial areas are mainly established Casuarina equisetifolia, Acacia confusa, Bombax malabarium, Koelreuteria bipinnata, and Macaranga tanarius. Other tree species such as Roystonea regia are found on the planting islands at road junctions at Kwai Tsing Interchange. These trees are of typical urban landscaping features in Hong Kong and have medium amenity value. The sensitivity is medium.

(b) LR2 –Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

The trees are mainly located in planting areas underneath the interchange viaducts with some of the tree crowns fetching a height more than 6m above ground and protruding in between the driving lane of the flyovers. These trees are mostly Ficus benjamina, Ficus microcarpa, Spathodea campanulata, Bauhinia purpurea, and Melaleuca leucadendendron. Some smaller tree species such as Bauhinia purpurea, Bauhinia blakeana, Plumeria ruba, and palm species like Caryota ochlandra and Livistona chinensis are scattered in groups in various planters in the area. These trees located underneath or adjacent to the proposed road works are typical urban landscaping features in Hong Kong. The sensitivity is medium.

The Park, originally a restored landfill site, is a heavily wooded area with mature trees such as Acacia confusa, Eucalyptus urophylla, Ficus microcarpa, and Albizia lebbeck framing the western alignment of the Tsuen Wan Road. Although the park is now closed to the public, people still use the connecting footbridges to travel between different factory clusters. The massive tree coverage is a distinct landscape resource in the bustling city landscape of Kwai Chung area. The sensitivity is high.

(d) LR4 –Planting at Foothills of Lai King Hill

This area of heavily vegetated hill slopes forms a green backdrop to the eastern Kwai Chung District. The vegetation of the lower portion of the hill is mainly semi-indigenous woodland with Casuarina equisetifolia, Acacia confusa, Bombax malabarium, Koelreuteria bipinnata, Macaranga tanarius, Ficus microcarpa, and Bauhinia blakeana while vegetations on higher elevations are natural woodland due to the topography. The lush tree covered hills is an important landscape resource in the area and sensitivity is high.

(e) LR5 – Lai King Sports Centre

This is a recreational facility consists of indoor sports facilities, a football field and associated landscape area. There are tree planting at the entrance area and at the sitting out area towards the northern end of the facility. The trees are common species like Casuarina equisetifolia, Delonix regia, Magnolia alba and Terminalia mantaly. The trees are common species with medium amenity value. The sensitivity is medium.

(f) LR6 – Kwai Shun Street Playground

A tree lined small local open space which provides both active and passive recreation facilities in the area. The sitting out areas are frequently visited by the workers in nearby industrial buildings but the two skating rinks are seldomly used because of their relative obscure locations which are underneath the Tsuen Wan Road flyover. The trees are common species with medium amenity value such as Hibuscus variegate, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Koelreuteria bipinnata and Lagerstroemia spiciosa. The sensitivity is medium.

(g) LR7 – Kwai Chung Sports Ground

A major sports ground facilities in Kwai Chung area which not only do large sports events but becomes a popular jogging venue for local residents in the evenings. The sports ground is lined with trees on the peripheral with species such as Juniperus chinensis, while the interior are planted with Casuarina equisetifolia, Bauhinia blakeana and Chrysalidocarpus lutescens. The quality of the landscape is high and an important recreational resource in urban area. The sensitivity is high.

(h) LR8 – Landscaped Area in Kwai Fong Core Area

This area is primarily the traffic hub of Kwai Fong which includes the central planting area with the landmark clock tower in the centre, the massive tree planting at the Kwai Tsing Theatre and ornamental planting at the roundabout area. The tree planting at Kwai Tsing Theatre are especially important since it created an effective green barrier to shield off the industrial buildings beyond. Trees are common species like Archontophoenix alexandrae, Ficus Benjamina, Ficus microcarpa, Lagerstroemia spiciosa, Terminalia catappa, Terminalia mantaly and Roystonia regia. The amenity value of the landscape is high and sensitivity is high.

(i) LR9 – Kwai Yi Road Playground

A small local open space with tree lined sitting area and basketball courts which provides both active and passive recreation for the district. The trees are common species like Aleurites moluccana, Callistemon viminalis, Delonix regia, Peltophorum petrocarpum and Plumeria rubra. The quality of the landscape is medium and sensitivity is medium.

(j) LR10 –Lai King Hill Road Playground

A local open space provides both active and passives recreation facilities for the residents in Lai King Area. Trees are common species like Aleurites moluccana, Bauhinia variegate, Ficus virens, Eucalyptus citriodora, Livistona chinensis and Melaleuca leucadendron. The quality of landscape is medium and sensitivity is medium.

(k) LR11 – Landscape at Residential

These are mainly amenity shrubs and trees planting within the Lai King Estates, Cho Yiu Chuen and Yin Lai Court. Screen planting are also found in areas like parking lots and roadside planting. Trees are common species like Albizia lebbeck, Bauhinia variegate, Bombax ceiba, Delonix regia, Ficus microcarpa. The amenity value of the landscape is medium and sensivity is medium.

(l) LR12 – Landscape at School, Clinic, other Public Buildings

This LR represent those landscape areas located at public institutions and schools scattered around lower Lai King area. The landscape treatment is mainly trees with shrubs planting that are well maintained. These plantings serve various functions such as screening and shade providing. The amenity value of the landscape is medium and sensitivity is medium.

(m) LR13 –Man-made Slope Area

This LR represents a dominant type of man-made landform as a result of site formation work for vehicular roads and human settlements for Kai King Area. Depending on the topograghy of the slope, varying slope treatments such as exposed rock surface, shotcreted, hydroseeding and regenerated woodland. The vegetation are mainly semi-indigenous woodland type with species like Casuarina equisetifolia, Acacia confusa, Bombax malabarium, Koelreuteria bipinnata, Macaranga tanarius, Ficus microcarpa, and Bauhinia blakeana. The amenity value of the landscape is medium and sensitivity is medium.

(n) LR14 –Roadside Planting inside Container Terminal

These are mainly roadside tree plantings along the Container Port Road inside the container terminal. Tree species are mainly Ficus benjamina which provides shade and screening along the Container Port Road. These trees are typical urban landscaping features in Hong Kong. The sensitivity is medium.

(o) LR15 – Planting at Highland Park

This LR is typical landscape treatment in most residential development on Hong Kong. The trees at this locations are mainly Ficus benjamina, Ficus microcarpa, Bauhinia species, Schefflera heptaphylla and Archontophoenix alexandrae. The amenity of this landscape is medium and sensitivity is medium.

(p) LR16 – Planting at DSD Kwai Chung Industrial Wastewater Pumping Station

The trees in this pumping station effectively screen the facility from views on street level. The tree species are mainly Senna siamea and Ficus microcarpa. The amenity value of the landscape is medium and sensitivity is medium.

Impacts on Existing Trees

Existing Trees

7.6.4 A survey of existing trees within the study area identified a total number of 85 trees within the tree survey boundary. Typical roadside tree planting is common with a majority of the trees having reached a mature stature. The trees are of various sizes and species.

7.6.5 None of these are Registered Old and Valuable Trees. There are no rare and endangered species but only common species.

Recommended Treatment of Existing Trees

7.6.6 A total number of 85 trees were identified within or in close proximity to the proposed road works and are likely to be affected by the proposed works.

7.6.7 Compensatory planting / replanting according to ETWB TCW No. 10/2013 App. A: I (v)(b) states that the compensatory planting ratio shall not be less than 1:1 in terms of quantity of felled trees including dead trees and trees of undesirable species. Tree findings and recommendation of their treatment are summarized in the following table. The tree survey layout plan under the preliminary stage of design and conceptual Landscape Master Plan are shown in Figures 7.8A and 7.8B. Due to the limited available space for the construction of the new carriageway and associated footbridges, 59 trees will be felled and 26 trees will be transplanted to locations within Kwai Chung district under separate arrangement with LCSD. Attempts has been made to propose transplanting trees back to site but failed due to site constraints, spatial requirements for healthy tree growth, and future maintenance department requirement. Detailed tree removal application will be submitted in accordance with ETWB TCW No. 10/2013.

Table 7-2 Summaries of the Tree Survey Recommendations

Tree Recommendation Status - Existing Trees within Proposed Road Widening Works Area	Total
Recommended for Retaining	0
Recommended for Transplanting	26
Recommended for Felling	59
Total Trees Surveyed on Site	85

Landscape Character Areas

7.6.8 The landscape characters of the assessment area situated within and adjacent to the Tsuen Wan Road and Kwai Chung Road Interchange area are strongly influenced by the topography and urban development context. Eight major landscape character areas (LCAs) have been identified within the area. The following section describes those areas and their degrees of sensitivity toward the proposed changes. Landscape character plans are presented in Figure 7.3 to read in conjunction with the text. Photographic records of LCAs are provided in Figure 7.6.

7.6.9 The eight major LCAs identified within the assessment area are described as below:-

(a) LCA1 – Mixed Residential and Commercial Surrounding Kwai Fong MTR Station

The area of high-rise residential buildings, office buildings and MTR station is the hub in Kwai Chung area. The area is characterised by a high sense of enclosure, with predominantly man-made features with busy pedestrian and vehicle traffic. The area is visited by high numbers of daily commuters and has high ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity is low.

(b) LCA2 – Residential at Higher Level of Lai King Hill

The residential area at higher level of Lai King is represented by the PSPS development the Highland Park and public housing Lai Yiu Estate. The area is buffered by a natural vegetated slope separating the lower level of Lai King Hill residential area below. This resulted in a relatively secluded residential area overlooking the bustling city activities below. The sensitivity is medium.

This landscape character area is represented by the concentration of public housing estates, such as Lai King Estate and Cho Yiu Chuen; HOS housing such as Yin Lai Court and Yuet Lai Court; schools and MTR station. The area also includes a Polyclinic & Special Educational Services and is of Polyclinic & Special Educational Services. Vegetation is limited in the area and the type of landscape is common public housing setting with high ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity is low.

(d) LCA4 – Industrial & Open Storage Area along Tsuen Wan Road

Centred around the Kwai Tsing Interchange, open storage areas and industrial buildings of mixed ages form dense clusters of blocks with narrow streets serving the interior. This LCA has low sensitivity because of its industrial character.

(e) LCA5 – Kwai Chung Sports Ground

Located across Kwai Fong Road opposite to LCA1, the Kwai Chung Sports Ground is the major outdoor sports facilities in the heart of the area. The facility is well-served with pedestrian linkages and sensitivity is high.

(f) LCA6 – Kwai Chung Road Interchange

This area is characterised by the major highways with separated carriageways, MTR viaducts, footbridges, and associated uses. Between the roads are profile barriers and occasionally planting areas with trees fetch up to 10m high. This type of LCA is common to Hong Kong and is less sensitive to development. The sensitivity is low.

(g) LCA7 – Kwai Chung Container Terminal

Built in the late 60’s, the container terminal continually drives the development of Kwai Chung area to a busy and vibrant suburb of Hong Kong. The area is characterised by container loading cranes, stacks of containers, go downs and lifting vehicles. This type of LCA is less sensitive to development and sensitivity is low.

(h) LCA8 – Kwai Chung Park

The Park is characterised by heavily vegetated small mount with mature trees which provides a distinctly contrasting setting to the industrial buildings and container terminal in the area. The landscape is considered as high quality and of regional significance. The sensitivity is high.

Potential Sources of Landscape Impacts

7.6.10 The potential sources of landscape impact during construction would include items such as site clearance including removal of existing trees for construction, setting up site hoardings and offices, establishing storage area, constructing future carriageway, noise barriers and associated footbridges structural works. Potential impacts would result from the nature of the items either temporary or permanent works during construction.

7.6.11 The potential sources of landscape impact during operation will include the permanent loss of trees, completed new carriageway, footbridges, noise barriers, new shrubs planting and streetscape enhancement.

Table 7-3 Potential Sources of Landscape Impacts during Construction Phase

LIC1 – Loss of Existing Vegetations	Removal of existing trees and shrubs for the new viaduct, footbridge and road widening works
LIC2 – Site Hoarding/Offices	Establishment of site offices and erection of hoardings
LIC3 – Dismantlement of Existing Footbridge	Dismantlement of the existing footbridge for the down ramp of the new carriageway
LIC4 – Road Widening Works	Widening section of Tsuen Wan Road
LIC5 – Construction of Noise Barriers	Construction of noise barriers along the new viaduct
LIC6 – Construction of New Footbridge	Re-provision of the footbridge north close to the Lai King Catholic Secondary School

Table 7-4 Potential Sources of Landscape Impacts during Operation Phase

LIO1 – Loss of Existing Trees	Permanent loss of existing trees
LIO2 –New Viaduct	Permanent pre-stressed concrete box girder viaduct
LIO3 –New Footbridge	Permanent footbridge structure
LIO4 –New Shrub	New shrub planting in the area
LIO 5 Streetscape Enhancement	Landscape elements such as pedestrian walkway paving enhancement, street furniture and lighting

Magnitude of Landscape Impacts

7.6.12 The magnitude of unmitigated landscape impact associated with the construction phase and operational phases of the Project are assessed and described below:

Table 7-5 Magnitude of Landscape Impacts during Construction and Operation Phases

ID No.	Landscape Resources/Landscape Character Areas	Source of Impact	Description of Impacts	Magnitude of Change (large / Intermediate / Small / Negligible)
ID No.	Landscape Resources/Landscape Character Areas	Source of Impact	Description of Impacts	Construction	Operation
LR1	Tree Planting along Tsuen Wan Road	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR2	Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area	Dismantlement of existing footbridge, construction of the new carriageway and footbridges and associate structures and operation of the new carriageway footbridges and associate structures during operation phase	During construction phase, tree planting within the road interchange area will be removed. Approximately 85 nos. of trees are affected with 59 nos. proposed to be felled, 26 nos. proposed to be transplanted to new locations within Kwai Chung area under separate arrangement with LCSD. Tree species include Ficus benjamina, Ficus microcarpa, Spathodea campanulata, Bauhinia purpurea, and Melaleuca leucadendendron, Bauhinia purpurea, Bauhinia blakeana, Plumeria ruba.	Large	Large
LR3	Kwai Chung Park	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR4	Planting at foothills of Lai King Hill	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR5	Lai King Sports Centre	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR6	Kwai Shun Street Playground	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR7	Kwai Chung Sports Ground	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR8	Landscaped Area in Kwai Fong Core Area	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR9	Kwai Yi Road Playground	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR10	Lai King Hill Road Playground	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR11	Landscape at Residential	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR12	Landscape at School, Clinic, other Public Buildings	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR13	Man-made Slope	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR14	Roadside Planting Inside Container Terminal	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR15	Planting at Highland Park	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR16	Planting at DSD Kwai Chung Industrial Wastewater Pumping Station	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA1	Mixed Residential and Commercial Surrounding Kwai Fong MTR Station	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA2	Residential at Higher Level of Lai King Hill	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA3	Residential at Lower Level of Lai King Hill	Dismantlement of existing footbridge, construction of the new carriageway and footbridges and associate structures and operation of the new carriageway footbridges and associate structures during operation phase	During construction phase, there would be some change of landscape character due to the proposed demolition, construction and associated temporary works. During operation phase, the new a carriageway and footbridges will be integrated into the existing Kwai Chung Road system.	Small	Negligible
LCA4	Industrial & Open Storage Area along Tsuen Wan Road	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA5	Kwai Chung Sports Ground	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA6	Kwai Chung Road Transportation Corridor	Dismantlement of existing footbridge, construction of the new carriageway and footbridges and associate structures and operation of the new carriageway footbridges and associate structures during operation phase	During construction phase, the will be changes in landscape character due to proposed demolition, construction and associated construction works. The extend of works is localised at the interchange area which is the heart of the Kwai Chung Road system. During operation phase, impact will be same as the construction period. New section of carriageway, new footbridges and associated structures will become part of the Kwai Chung Road system.	Intermediate	Intermediate
LCA7	Kwai Chung Container Terminal	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA8	Kwai Chung Park	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible

7.6.13 The magnitude of change, before implementation of mitigation measures, in the construction and operation phases are assessed and presented in Table 7-5. All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated.

7.6.14 LR2 – Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area will be removed for the new carriageway and associated footbridges construction work. The tree planting area will be occupied by the flyover and bridge structure leaving insufficient room for future tree planting. The magnitude of change is expected to be large.

7.6.15 LCA3 – Residential at Lower Level of Lai King Hill will be affected by the change of landscape character due to the proposed demolition, construction and associated temporary works. The magnitude of change is considered as small. The resultant unmitigated impact is considered as moderate. There will not be any impact on this LCA during operation phase when the construction works are completed.

7.6.16 LCA6 – Kwai Chung Road Transportation Corridor will have changes in landscape character due to proposed demolition, construction and associated construction works. The extent of works is localised at the interchange area which is the heart of the Kwai Chung Road and will become an integral part of the road system when completed. The magnitude of change is intermediate.

7.6.17 There would not be any discernible landscape impact on other LRs and LCAs and their magnitude of impact is negligible.

Table 7-8 Visual Sensitive Receivers (VSRs) and their Sensitivity

Type	VSRs	Population of VSRs (Few/ Small/ Intermediate/ Large)	Quality of View (Good/ Fair/ Poor)	Degree of Visibility (Full / Partial / Glimpse/Shielded)	Availability and Amenity Alternative Views	Frequency of View (Very Frequent / Frequent / Occasional / Rare / Nil)	Sensitivity (Low/ Medium/ High)
Residential
R1	Kwai Chung Plaza	Intermediate	Fair	Partial	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Occasional	Medium
R2	New Kwai Fong Gardens	Intermediate	Fair	Partial	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Occasional	Medium
R3	Kwai Fong Terrace	Intermediate	Fair	Partial	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Occasional	Medium
R4	Lai Yiu Estate	Large	Good	Full	Yes / Panoramic surrounding views	Rare	Medium
R5	Lai King Estate North	Large	Fair	Full	Yes / Panoramic surrounding views	Very Frequent	High
R5A	Lai King Estate South	Large	Fair	Partial	Yes / Panoramic surrounding views	Occasional	High
R6	Yin Lai Court	Intermediate	Fair	Partial	Yes / alternative surrounding view	Occasional	Medium
R7	Highland Park	Large	Good	Partial	Yes / Panoramic surrounding views	Frequent	Medium
R8	Residents at Yuet Lai Court	Intermediate	Good	Shielded	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Nil	Medium
R9	Residents at Cho Yiu Chuen	Large	Good	Shielded	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Nil	Medium
Occupational
O1	Metroplaza	Large	Good	Full	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Occasional	Low
O2	Kwai Chung Industrial Area	Large	Poor	Glimpse	Yes / Limited views in other directions	Rare	Low
O3	Kwai Fong Ancillary Building	Few	Good	Full	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Rare	Low
O4	Polyclinic & Special Educational Services	Intermediate	Good	Full	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Rare	Medium
O5	Lai King Catholic Secondary School	Intermediate	Fair	Full	Yes / alternative restricted surrounding views	Very Frequent	Medium
O6	Ever Gain Plaza	Large	Good	Full	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Frequent	Low
O7	Container Terminals	Large	Fair	Full	Yes / Panoramic surrounding views	Rare	Low
O8	Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School	Intermediate	Fair	Partial	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Occasional	Medium
O9	Lai King MTR Station	Small	Poor	Glimpse	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Rare	Low
O10	Lai King Assessment Centre	Small	Fair	Partial	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Occasional	Low
O11	OUHK – CITA Lai King Learning Centre	Small	Fair	Shielded	Yes / limited surrounding views	Nil	Low
O12	Lai King Community Hall	Small	Fair	Shielded	Yes / limited surrounding views	Nil	Low
O13	Asbury Methodist Primary School	Intermediate	Fair	Shielded	Yes / limited surrounding views	Nil	Medium
Leisure
L1	Kwai Shun Street Playground	Small	Poor	Glimpse	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Occasional	Medium
L2	Visitors to Kwai Yip Road Playground	Small	Fair	Shielded	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Rare	Medium
L3	Visitors to Lai King Sports Centre	Medium	Fair	Glimpse	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Rare	Medium
L4	Visitors to Kwai Chung Park	Medium	Fair	Glimpse	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Frequent	Medium
L5	Visitors to Lai King Hill Road Playground	Small	Fair	Shielded	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Rare	Medium
Transportation
T1	Open Storage Area Car Park Users	Intermediate	Poor	Full	Yes / limited surrounding views	Frequent	Low
T2	Pedestrians travelling on Street Level under Kwai Chung Interchange Area	Small	Poor	Full	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Very Frequent	Low
T3	Commuters on Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai Chung Road	Large	Fair	Full	Yes / Panoramic surrounding views	Very Frequent	Low
T4	Commuters at Lai King Bus Terminus	Intermediate	Good	Full	Yes / Panoramic surrounding views	Occasional	Low
T5	Commuters on MTR	Large	Fair	Full	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Frequent	Low
T6	Travellers to Kwai Fong Core Area	Large	Fair	Glimpse	Yes / alternative surrounding views	Rare	Low

Table 7-9 Magnitude of Change on Visually Sensitive Receivers before Mitigation

Type	VSRs	Source of Impact		Distance to Source (m)	Compatibility with Surroundings (Good / Fair / Poor)			Scale of Development (Small / Med / Large)			Duration of Impacts (Short / Med / Long)				Reversibility of Change (Yes / No)				Potential Blockage of View (Full / Part / Nil)				Magnitude of Change (Large / Intermediate / Small / Negligible)
Type	VSRs	Source of Impact		Distance to Source (m)	Con		Op	Con	Op		Con		Op		Con		Op		Con		Op		Con	Op
Residential
R1	Kwai Chung Plaza	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		450+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
R2	New Kwai Fong Gardens	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		450+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
R3	Kwai Fong Terrace	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		300-400	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
R4	Lai Yiu Estate	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		400+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
R5	Lai King Estate North	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5		50+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Intermediate	Small
R5A	Lai King Estate South	VIC1,2,3,4,5 VIO1,2,3,4		250+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Small	Negligible
R6	Yin Lai Court	VIC1,2,3,4,5 VIO1,2,3		200+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Small	Negligible
R7	Highland Park	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		450+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Small	Negligible
R8	Residents at Yuet Lai Court	--		250+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
R9	Residents at Cho Yiu Chuen	--		350+	Fair		Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
Occupational
O1	Metroplaza	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		350+		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
O2	Kwai Chung Industrial Area	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5		200+		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
O3	Kwai Fong Ancillary Building	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		300		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
O4	Polyclinic & Special Educational Services	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		200+		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Small	Negligible
O5	Lai King Catholic Secondary School	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5		100+		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Part		Part		Intermediate	Small
O6	Ever Gain Plaza	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		250+		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Intermediate	Negligible
O7	Container Terminals	--		400+		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
O8	Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3		150+		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Small	Negligible
O9	Lai King MTR Station	--		150		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
O10	Lai King Assessment Centre	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5		120		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Small	Negligible
O11	OUHK – CITA Lai King Learning Centre	--		300		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
O12	Lai King Community Hall	--		400		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
O13	Asbury Methodist Primary School	--		450		Fair	Fair	Small	Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil		Negligible	Negligible
Leisure
L1	Kwai Shun Street Playground		VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	100		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Small	Negligible
L2	Visitors to Kwai Yip Road Playground		--	250+		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Negligible	Negligible
L3	Visitors to Lai King Sports Centre		--	200		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Negligible	Negligible
L4	Visitors to Kwai Chung Park		--	250+		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Negligible	Negligible
L5	Visitors to Lai King Hill Road Playground		--	450+		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Negligible	Negligible
Transportation
T1	Open Storage Area Car Park Users		VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	50+		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Intermediate	Small
T2	Pedestrians travelling on Street Level under Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area		VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	0 – 200		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Intermediate	Small
T3	Commuters on Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai Chung Road		VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	0 – 300		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Part		Part	Intermediate	Small
T4	Commuters at Lai King Bus Terminus		VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	100+		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Small	Negligible
T5	Commuters on MTR		VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	50 – 200		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Small	Negligible
T6	Travellers to Kwai Fong Core Area		--	150 – 350		Fair	Fair	Small		Small		Med		Long		Yes		Yes		Nil		Nil	Negligible	Negligible

Note: “- -” denotes no source of impact due to non-visible from the proposed works.

7.7 Landscape Impact Assessment

Evaluation of Potential Landscape Impacts without Mitigation

7.7.1 The LRs and LCAs identified earlier in this assessment report represent those resources that are situated within the study area. However, not all of these LCAs and LRs have direct impact from the proposed works as the proposed road widening works is localised only on a short section of the existing flyover system. Those LCAs and LRs that will have a potential impact due to the proposed road widening work will be discussed in the following sections and summarised in Table 7-12 and presented in Figures 7.10 and 7.11. All others LRs and LCAs that show insubstantial impacts will not be included in the above tables.

Construction Phase

(a) Substantially adverse potential impacts will be experienced by:

· LR2 – Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

The proposed road improvement works will require taking up the existing planting area for the construction of the additional carriageway. Although the work area required for the proposed work is relatively small, all existing trees will be affected. Without mitigation, the impact on this LR during construction phase is considered substantially adverse.

(b) Moderately adverse potential impacts will be experienced by:

· LCA3 – Residential at Lower Level of Lai King Hill

Located in the middle of the intricate web of flyover carriage system, the proposed work will become the prominent feature in the area. Without mitigation, the impact on this LCA during construction phase is considered moderately adverse.

· LCA6 – Kwai Chung Road Interchange

The proposed improvement of southbound traffic by an additional carriageway between KT I/C and Kwai Chung Road will add an additional flyover structure in the complex separated web of road interchange system. Without mitigation, the impact on this LCA during construction phase is considered slightly adverse.

(d) All other identified LRs and LCAs not described in the above discussions will experience insubstantial impacts.

Operation Phase

(a) Substantially adverse potential Impacts will be experienced by

· LR2 –Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

The proposed new carriageway will permanently require occupying the existing tree planting area. Without mitigating for the loss of this landscape resource, the impact on this LR is considered substantially adverse.

(b) Slightly adverse potential impacts will be experienced by:

· LCA6 –Kwai Chung Road Interchange

The proposed new carriageway will permanently require occupying a portion of the existing tree planting area. Without mitigating for the loss of this landscape resource, the impact on this LR is considered slightly adverse.

7.8 Visual Impact Assessment

Evaluation of Potential Visual Impacts without Mitigation

7.8.1 The potential visual impacts on identified VSRs resulting from the proposed works during construction and operation phases of the Project are summarised in the following sections, listed in Tables 7-6 and 7-7 and presented in Figures 7.12 and 7.13. The mitigated (residual) impacts are assessed during the design year which for the purpose of this study is taken as being between 10 and 15 years after the schemes opening when the proposed mitigation planting is deemed to have reached a level of maturity, which is sufficient for it to perform the design.

Construction Phase

(a) No substantially adverse potential impacts will be experienced by the identified VSRs.

(b) Moderately adverse potential impacts will be experienced by:

(i) R5 – Residents at Lai King Estate North

Directly overlooking onto the Kwai Chung Road Interchange, the residents of Lai King Estate North, especially for those residents residing in the low to middle floors of Fung King House and Ming King House will be exposed to the proposed road works. Without mitigation, the impact on this VSR is moderately adverse.

(ii) R5A – Lai King Estate South

The proposed road works are clearly seen by residents of On King House. Without mitigation, the impact is moderately adverse.

(iii) O5 – Staff and Students at Lai King Catholic Secondary School

Located just opposite to the proposed work site, this VSR will be exposed to the proposed work. Without mitigation, the impact on this VSR is moderately adverse.

(i) R6 – Residents at Yin Lai Court

Shielded by the Ming King House at front, a small number of flats on the top floors of the two buildings of this VSR will have a clear view on the proposed works. The impact on this VSR is slightly adverse.

(ii) R7 – Residents at Highland Park

Overlooking the Tsuen Wan Road from the crest of Lai King Hill above, about half of the proposed road work is exposed to view. It is however, the proposed work is at a distance from this VSR resulting in a slightly adverse impact during construction phase without mitigation measures.

(iii) O4 – Staff and Visitors at Polyclinic & Special Educational Services

Situated at a higher ground behind the Lai King Estate, the proposed road work will be clearly exposed to this VSR. Without mitigation, the impact on this VSR is slightly adverse.

(iv) O6 – Workers at Ever Gain Plaza

Due to the orientation of the building, Ever Gain Plaza will be directly exposed to the proposed road work. It is however, the views to the construction works will be restricted to those VSRs on the higher floors of the building. Without mitigation, this VSR is experiencing a slightly adverse impact.

(v) O8 – Staff and Students at Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School

Located behind another VSR-O5, this school will have a partial view on the proposed work. Without mitigation, this VSR is experiencing a slightly adverse impact.

(vi) O10 – Staff at Lai King Assessment Centre

Overlooking the Kwai Chung Road, this VSR will have a clear view on the proposed work. However the population is relatively small and is experiencing a slightly adverse impact during construction period without mitigation.

(vii) L1 – Visitors to Kwai Shun Street Playground

Located alongside the Tsuen Wan Road flyover system, the playground is mainly utilised as an outdoor sitting area for the local workers during lunch hours. The view towards the proposed road widening works is very restricted and mostly blocked by the flyover supporting columns and deck structures. This VSR is experiencing a slightly adverse impact during construction phase.

(viii) T1 – Open Storage Area Car Park Users

This group of VSR will be confronted with the construction work at ground level at close range. With the primary view is already restricted by the flyover systems overhead, this VSR is experiencing a slightly adverse impact during construction phase.

(ix) T2 – Pedestrians travelling on Street Level in Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai chung Road Interchange Area

Pedestrian currently using the footbridges and sidewalks to travel between the Lai King MTR Station and Kwai Chung Industrial Area and Container Terminal will be exposed to the proposed construction works. Without mitigation, the impact to this VSR is slightly adverse.

(x) T3 – Commuters on Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai Chung Road

A large numbers of commuters including public transit users, commuters in private vehicles and other commercial vehicles will travel in close range to the proposed road works. Without mitigation, this VSR is experiencing a slightly adverse impact.

(xi) T4 – Commuters at Lai King Bus Terminus

Overlooking the proposed works area, this VSR will be exposed to the construction works every time they commute through this bus terminus. This VSR will experience a slightly adverse impact without mitigation during construction phase.

(xii) T5 – Commuters on MTR

Travelling at a higher elevation, this VSR will have a clear view on the proposed construction work. Given the distance between the MTR tracks and the proposed work site and compound with the higher tolerance of this VSR to the potential impact on visual intrusion, this VSR will experience a slightly adverse impact without mitigation.

(d) Insubstantial potential impacts will be experienced by:

(i) R1 – Residents at Kwai Chung Plaza

(ii) R2 – Residents at New Kwai Fong Gardens

(iii) R3 – Residents at Kwai Fong Terrace

(iv) R4 – Residents at Lai Yiu Estate

(v) R8 – Residents at Yuet Lai Court

(vi) R9 – Residents at Cho Yiu Chuen

(vii) O1 – Workers at Metroplaza

(viii) O2 – Workers at Kwai Chung Industrial Area

(ix) O3 – Workers at Kwai Fong Ancillary Building

(x) O7– Staff and Workers at Container Terminals

(xi) O9 – Staff at Lai King MTR Station

(xii) O11 – Staff and Visitors at OUHK – CITA Lai King Learning Centre

(xiii) O12 – Staff and Visitors at Lai King Community Hall

(xiv) O13 – Staff and Students at Asbury Methodist Primary School

(xv) L2 – Visitors to Kwai Yip Road Playground

(xvi) L3 – Visitors to Lai King Sports Centre

(xvii) L4 – Visitors to Kwai Chung Park

(xviii) L5 – Visitors to Lai King Hill Road Playground

(xix) T6 – Travellers to Kwai Fong Core Area

The construction of the new carriageway will have insubstantial impacts for this group of VSRs as the construction work is located at a distance away or their primary views are facing away from their respective locations. It is also compounded with the existence of the complex flyover systems that the proposed work will not be easily distinguishable even without mitigation measures during construction.

Operation Phase

(a) No substantial potential impacts will be experienced by the identified VSRs.

(b) No moderately adverse potential impacts will be experienced by the identified VSRs.

(i) R5 – Residents at Lai King Estate North

Although the new carriageway will blend into the existing web of flyover system upon completion, the noise barrier structures will become a visual disturbance for these residents. In addition, trees that have been removed for the construction work will be lost and result in a downgrading of visual quality. A slightly adverse impact is resulted.

(ii) O5 – Staff and Students at Lai King Catholic Secondary School

When completed, the new carriageway will blend into the existing web of flyover system and its general visual effect is minimal. However the new noise barrier structure and the loss of tree group that have been removed for the construction work will no longer exist, thus resulting a down grade of visual quality for this group of VSR and a slightly adverse impact.

(iii) T1 – Open Storage Area Car Park Users

The new carriageway will add additional structures into the already complex flyover system, and compound with the removal of trees at the concerned location. The visual quality for this VSR will be downgraded, thus resulting in a slightly adverse impact.

(iv) T2 – Pedestrians travelling on Street Level under Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

The removal of trees for the construction of the carriageway will further deprive the already poor visual quality below the flyover system. Without mitigation, this group of VSR will experience a slightly adverse impact during operation period.

(v) T3 – Commuters on Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai Chung Road

Although the completed carriageway will blend into the existing flyover system, the introduction of noise barrier structures will create permanent visual barrier along this section of road. The loss of trees for the construction of proposed structure will downgrade the visual quality of this group of VSR when travelling through this section of road and experience a slightly adverse impact.

(d) Insubstantial potential impacts will be experienced by:

(i) R1 – Residents at Kwai Chung Plaza

(ii) R2 – Residents at New Kwai Fong Gardens

(iii) R3 – Residents at Kwai Fong Terrace

(iv) R4 – Residents at Lai Yiu Estate

(v) R5A – Residents at Lai King Estate South

(vi) R6 – Residents at Yin Lai Court

(vii) R7 – Residents at Highland Park

(viii) R8 – Residents at Yuet Lai Court

(ix) R9 – Residents at Cho Yiu Chuen

(x) O1 – Workers at Metroplaza

(xi) O2 – Workers at Kwai Chung Industrial Area

(xii) O3 – Workers at Kwai Fong Ancillary Building

(xiii) O4 – Staff & Visitors at Polyclinic & Special Educational Services

(xiv) O6 – Workers at Ever Gain Plaza

(xv) O7 – Staff and Workers at Container Terminals

(xvi) O8 – Staff and Students at Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School

(xvii) O9 – Workers at Lai King MTR Station

(xviii) O10 – Staff at Lai King Assessment Centre

(xix) O11 – Staff and Visitors at OUHK – CITA Lai King Learning Centre

(xx) O12 – Staff and Visitors to Lai King Community Hall

(xxi) O13 – Staff and Students at Asbury Methodist Primary School

(xxii) L1 – Visitors to Kwai Shun Street Playground

(xxiii) L2 – Visitors to Kwai Yip Road Playground

(xxiv) L3 – Visitors to Lai King Sports Centre

(xxv) L4 – Visitors to Kwai Chung Park

(xxvi) L5 – Visitors to Lai King Hill Road Playground

(xxvii)T4 – Commuters at Lai King Bus Terminus

(xxviii) T5 – Commuters on MTR

(xxix) T6 – Travellers to Kwai Fong Core Area

With the completion of the construction work, there will be no perceptible change of quality of view as the area will return more or less close to its current condition. All these VSRs will have insubstantial impacts from the proposed road works.

7.9 Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

7.9.1 The landscape mitigation measures described in this report are at a level which both demonstrate their ability to alleviate the potential landscape and visual impacts identified in the assessment and also allow the proposals to be carried forward during the detailed design stage. More detailed landscape proposals will be developed during the initial stages of the design and construction phase of this project following the completion of the detailed Tree Survey Report. The measures are designed to address both the construction and operation phases of the Project. The residual landscape and visual impacts and the degrees of sensitivity are presented in Figures 7.14 to 7.17 respectively.

7.9.2 The landscape and visual mitigation measures are described both in a generic sense for measures which apply to all of the development site and in terms of the proposed landscape strategy for the amenity areas within the development. The aim of the mitigation measures is to:

· Alleviate those landscape and visual impacts which are unavoidable through the review of design of the carriageway structure;

· Establish a coherent and integrated landscape framework for the proposed works drawing together the visually disparate components of the proposed carriageway and integrating the proposals within the context of the area;

· Enhance the existing landscape and visual context of the surrounding areas by providing integration between the proposed carriageway and its context; and

· Provide a co-ordinated approach to the landscape mitigation proposals where there is an interface.

Primary Mitigation Measures

7.9.3 In accordance with the EIAO-TM, the hierarchy for landscape and visual impact mitigation is first avoidance of impact, then minimisation of impact and finally compensation of impact. The design of the proposed structures sought to address the following objectives:

· Minimisation of potential impacts on landscape resources such as intrusion into the planting area by reviewing the design requirement of the proposed carriageway structure and associate structures at the concerned location; and

· Restoration and enhancement of existing roadside landscapes through planting of shrubs following the completion of the construction phase of the Project. The selection of shrubs species shall consider the planting theme of the Greening Master Plan of Tsuen Wan Area such that the disturbed area is restored to blend in with the surrounding setting.

Secondary Mitigation Measures

7.9.4 In accordance with the EIAO-TM, mitigation measures for the construction and operation phases of the development have been designed to minimise predicted landscape and visual impacts, and to compensate for the loss of landscape resources as far as possible given the project constraints.

7.9.5 A series of mitigation measures are designed to alleviate impacts and compensate for loss of landscape resources, change of landscape character and visual amenity for VSRs resulting from the construction and operation phases of the Project. The mitigation details are presented in Figure 7.9.

7.9.6 The mitigation measures are summarized in Tables 7.10 and 7.11 below:-

Table 7-10 Proposed Construction Phase Mitigation Measures

Mitigation Code	Mitigation Measures
CP1	Development Site and Temporary Works Areas – The construction area and contractor’s temporary works area should be minimized to avoid impacts on adjacent landscape. The landscape of these works areas will be restored following the completion of the construction phase. Construction site controls shall be enforced, to ensure that the landscape and visual impacts arising from the construction phase activities are minimized including the storage of materials, the location and appearance of site accommodation and the careful design of site lighting to prevent light spillage. Screen hoarding may be a practicable for this project due to the viewing distances is short in a lot of site situation.
CP2	Mitigation Planting – Replanting of disturbed planting areas with shrubs planting should be undertaken at the earliest possible stage during the construction phase of the project so as to reduce the impact of the removed trees.

Table 7-11 Proposed Operation Phase Mitigation Measures

Mitigation Code	Mitigation Measure
OP1	Design of the Proposed Carriageway Structures and Associate Facilities – the carriageway structure will incorporate design features as part of design mitigation measures including: choices of material, colour, and shape.
OP2	Integrated Design Approach – the associated noise barrier should consider incorporating different means of mitigation measures including choices of material, colour and integrate, as far as technically feasible, with the carriageway as part of design mitigation measures to reduce the potential cumulative impact of the proposed works.
OP3	Roadside and Amenity Planting – These planting will utilize flowering and colourful foliage shrubs species to improve the road side planting in creating a more pleasant landscape network in the area. Large shrubs should also be considered to create visual buffers of the supporting.
OP4	Enhancement of Streetscape – The landscape proposal should consider introducing coloured paving materials to tie with the paving theme of the Kwai Chung area.

7.9.7 The photomontages of the landscape and visual impacts of the Project with and without mitigation measures during operation from a VSR (R5 – Residents at Lai King Estate North) are illustrated at the following four stages as shown in Figure 7.18.

· Existing condition

· Day 1 of operation with no mitigation measures

· Day 1 of operation with mitigation measures

· Year 10 of operation with mitigation measures

A viewpoint from Fung King House, Lai King Estate North being adopted for the photomontage give a representative view of the project, which shows the major landscape and visual impacts to the most severely affected VSR due to the construction of the new viaduct and noise barriers, demolition and reprovisioning works of footbridge, and ancillary works. Having considered the close distance in between, full visibility and very frequent to the works during construction and operation phases, the direct overlooking from a low level of Fung King House is taken into consideration. Other adjacent sensitive receivers such as people at Lai King Catholic Secondary School and Ever Gain Plaza or commuters on Tsuen Wan Road and Kwai Chung Road can experience the landscape and visual impacts due to this Project; however, the sensitivity is relatively low than Lai King Estate North in view of the short duration and long distance. They are considered as the temporary visitors either for school, work or travel.

7.10 Residual Impacts

Evaluation of Residual Impacts on Landscape Resources and Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation

7.10.1 The predicted unmitigated and mitigated impacts on the existing landscape resources and existing landscape character areas resulting from the proposed works during the construction and operation phases of the Project are summarised in Table 7-12 and presented in Figures 7.14 and 7.15. The mitigated impacts are assessed during the design year for the purpose of this study and are taken as between 10 and 15 years after the schemes opening when the proposed mitigation planting is deemed to have reached a level of maturity, which is sufficient for it to perform the design objectives.

Construction Phase

7.10.2 There will still be some residual negative impacts after the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures in the construction phase and is as described below.

(a) Slightly adverse residual impacts will be experienced by the following LRs and LCAs.

(i) LCA3 – Residential at Lower Level of Lai King Hill

The construction works shall require heavy machinery that create visual disturbance to this LCA. Slightly adverse impact will result.

(ii) LCA6 – Kwai Chung Road Interchange

Although mitigation measures will be applied to the area during the construction period, the area will still suffer from physical change of loss of existing trees and visual disturbance due to operating machineries and construction work. The resulting impact will be slightly adverse.

(b) Moderately adverse landscape impacts will be experienced by:

(iii) LR2 –Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

The unavoidable removal of trees for the construction of the new carriageway will result in a moderately adverse impact to the existing LR even with mitigation measures.

Operation Phase

7.10.4 There will be some slightly beneficial residual landscape impacts on the LR and LCA after the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures during the operation phase. The resulting impacts improve from moderately and slightly adverse during construction to slightly beneficial after mitigation.

(a) No substantially adverse residual impacts will be experienced by the identified LRs and LCAs in Day 1 and Year 10 during operation.

(b) No moderately adverse residual impacts will be experienced by the identified LRs and LCAs in Day 1 and Year 10 during operation.

(d) Slightly adverse residual impacts will be experienced by LR2 at Day 1 of operation.

(i) LR2 –Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

With the completion of the project, new tree plantings and associated landscape treatment will be implemented in the area. However, it takes time to allow planting to re-establish and the overall landscape appearance at Day 1 of operation will not be fully achieved. It is anticipated that the proposed planting scheme will be slightly adverse during the operation phase in Day 1 of operation.

(e) Slightly beneficial residual impacts will be experienced by the following LRs and LCAs.

(i) LCA6 –Kwai Chung Road Interchange

With the completion of the new carriageway and with mitigation measures in place, it is anticipated to improve the existing disorganised planting arrangement in between the flyover structures. The new planting in the area will establish through time and is expected to give a coherent and orderly appearance in the area, and bring a slightly beneficial impact to this LCA by Year 10 during operation.

(f) Insubstantial residual impacts will be experienced by LCA6 at Day 1 of operation.

(i) LCA6 –Kwai Chung Road Interchange

When the new carriageway is put into operation, there will be a new noise barrier structure associated with the new carriageway, and a relocated footbridge closed to Lai King Catholic Secondary School. The overall flyover system will remain the same. The newly planted trees and other vegetation in the area will be in place that the area will return somewhat to its state before the construction, and will have insubstantial residual impacts to this at Day 1 of operation.

(g) All other LRs and LCAs not discussed above will be of insubstantial significance in Day 1 and by Year 10 of operation.

Id. No.	Landscape Resource / Landscape Character Area	Source of Impact	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)	Magnitude of Change (Large/ Intermediate/ Small/ Negligible)	Significance Threshold (Unmitigated) (Insubstantial / Slightly / Moderately / Substantially)	Recommended Mitigation Measures	Residual Impact Significance (Mitigated) (Insubstantial / Slight / Moderate / Substantial)
LR2	Tree Planting at Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area	Proposed Road Works	High	Large	Large	Substantially Adverse	Substantially Adverse	CP1,2 OP3,4	Moderately Adverse	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial
LCA3	Residential at lower level of Lai King Hill	Proposed Road Works	Medium	Small	Negligible	Moderately Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LCA6	Kwai Chung Road Interchange	Proposed Road Works	Low	Intermediate	Intermediate	Slightly Adverse	Slightly Adverse	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Slightly Beneficial

Evaluation of Residual Visual Impacts with Mitigation

7.10.6 Proposed mitigation measures are described in Table 7-10 and Table 7-11. Detailed descriptions of the effect of the mitigation measures are recorded below. The residual impacts and sensitivities in construction and operation phases are presented on Figure 7.16 to Figure 7.17 and Table 7-13 respectively.

Construction Phase

(a) No substantially adverse residual impacts will be experienced by the identified VSRs.

(b) Moderately adverse residual impacts will be experienced by the following identified VSRs.

(i) R5 – Residents in Lai King Estate North

Overlooking the construction site, the construction work is clearly visible and at close range to this group of VSR. A moderately adverse impact will result.

(ii) O5 – Staff and Students at Lai King Catholic Secondary School

Located at close range to the construction site, the construction work will be visible to this group of VSR during construction period. A moderately adverse impact will result.

(i) R5A – Residents at Lai King Estate South

(ii) R6 – Residents at Yin Lai Court

The residents on top floors of the two buildings of this VSR will have a clear view of the construction work, and experience a slightly adverse impact.

(iii) R7 – Residents at Highland Park

Although situated at a distance and at a high elevation, the proposed work is clearly visible from this VSR. It will experience a slightly adverse impact.

(iv) O4 – Staff and Visitors at Polyclinic & Special Educational Services

Although situated at about 200m away from the proposed road work site, it commands an open view towards the proposed section of the road widening work. This VSR will experience a slightly adverse impact during construction period.

(v) O6 – Workers at Ever Gain Plaza

The entire length of the proposed carriageway construction work will be exposed to this VSR and a slightly adverse impact will result.

(vi) O8 – Staff and Students at Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School

The proposed road works and the construction of the new footbridge will be visible to this VSR during construction period and a slightly adverse impact will result.

(vii) O10 – Staff at Lai King Assessment Centre

The proposed work will be clearly visible to this VSR, and a slightly adverse impact will result.

(viii) L1 – Visitors to Kwai Shun Street Playground

The proposed construction work is visible in between the flyover columns when viewed from this playground. This VSR will experience a slightly adverse impact during construction.

(ix) T1 – Open Storage Area Car Park Users

The proposed car park is close to the proposed work site and the construction work is visible to this group of VSR. A slightly adverse impact is expected.

(x) T2 – Pedestrians travelling on Street Level under Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

The construction site is located very close to their daily commuting route, and even with mitigation, the construction work will be clearly visible. A slightly adverse impact is result.

(xi) T3 – Commuters on Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai Chung Road

The proposed construction work is located very close to the daily commuting route for this group of VSR. Although mitigation measures will be in place during construction period, the proposed work is still clearly visible to them and a slightly adverse impact will result.

(xii) T4 – Commuters at Lai King Bus Terminus

Visual disturbance created by operating machineries and construction work is visible from this VSR and even with mitigation. The resulting impact will be slightly adverse.

(xiii) T5 – Commuters on MTR

Travelling at a higher elevation, this VSR will have a clear view on the proposed construction work. Given the distance between the MTR tracks and the proposed work site, this VSR will experience a slightly adverse impact.

(d) Insubstantial residual impacts will be experienced by:

(i) R1 – Residents at Kwai Chung Plaza

(ii) R2 – Residents at New Kwai Fong Gardens

(iii) R3 – Residents at Kwai Fong Terrace

(iv) R4 – Residents at Lai Yiu Estate

(v) R8 – Residents at Yuet Lai Court

(vi) R9 – Residents at Cho Yiu Chuen

(vii) O1 – Workers at Metroplaza

(viii) O2 – Workers at Kwai Chung Industrial Area

(ix) O3 – Workers at Kwai Fong Ancillary Building

(x) O7 – Staff and Workers at Container Terminals

(xi) O9 – Workers at Lai King MTR Station

(xii) O11 – Staff and Visitors at OUHK – CITA Lai King Learning Centre

(xiii) O12 – Staff and Visitors to Lai King Community Hall

(xiv) O13 – Staff and Students at Asbury Methodist Primary School

(xv) L2 – Visitors to Kwai Yip Road Playground

(xvi) L3 – Visitors to Lai King Sports Centre

(xvii) L4 – Visitors to Kwai Chung Park

(xviii) L5 – Visitors to Lai King Hill Road Playground

(xix) T6 – Travellers to Kwai Fong Core Area

The above VSRs will experience insubstantial residual impacts during construction phase with mitigation measures due to a number of different factors; for example, the proposed work is at a distance away from R1, R2, R3, R4, R5A, O1, O2, O3, O7, O9, and travellers T6 are exposed to the proposed work only for a short duration during each encounter. For VSRs R8, R9, O11, O12, O13 and L5, their respective views are blocked by buildings or facing away from the proposed work.

Operation Phase

(a) No substantial adverse residual impacts will be experienced by the identified VSRs in Day 1 and Year 10 during operation.

(b) No moderately adverse residual impacts will be experienced by the identified VSRs in Day 1 and Year 10 during operation.

(i) R5 – Residents at Lai King Estate North

The proposed noise barrier structures associated with the proposed road widening work will become a permanent visual barrier along the entire new flyover section and will become a visual disturbance for these residents. Even with mitigation, the noise barrier structure is a clearly visible feature and slightly adverse impact will be experienced by this VSR in Day 1 of operation.

(ii) O5 – Staff and Students at Lai King Catholic Secondary School

The close proximity of the new flyover, the associated noise barrier and the new footbridge structure will become a permanent visual barrier for an already restricted view of this VSR. Even with mitigation measures, the new structures are still visible to this VSR and a slightly adverse impact will be experienced by this VSR in Day 1of operation.

(iii) T1 – Open Storage Area Car Park Users

The new carriageway and footbridges will add additional flyover and footbridges structures into the existing expressway system, thus reducing the already restricted view of this VSR when visiting the place. The mitigation measures such as new shrubs planting require time to establish. The new structures are visible to this VSR and a slightly adverse impact will be experienced by this VSR in Day 1 of operation.

(iv) T2 – Pedestrians Travelling on Street Level under Kwai Chung Road Interchange Area

Like the VSR-T1, this VSR will also be confronted by the new carriageway and footbridges structures when travelling through the area. Although there are mitigation measures like new shrubs planting and streetscape enhancement, the effects require time to establish especially for planting. Slight adverse impact will be experienced by this VSR in day 1 of operation.

(v) T3 – Commuters on Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai Chung Road

The noise barrier structures will become a prominent feature to the receivers travelling along this road section. The open view they are currently enjoying will be restricted and blocked and a slightly adverse impact will be experienced in Day 1 of operation.

(d) Insubstantial residual impacts will be experienced by the following identified VSRs in Day 1 and Year 10 during operation:

(i) R1 – Residents at Kwai Chung Plaza

(ii) R2 – Residents at New Kwai Fong Gardens

(iii) R3 – Residents at Kwai Fong Terrace

(iv) R4 – Residents at Lai Yiu Estate

(v) R5A – Residents at Lai King Estate South

(vi) R6 – Residents at Yin Lai Court

(vii) R7 – Residents at Highland Park

(viii) R8 – Residents at Yuet Lai Court

(ix) R9 – Residents at Cho Yiu Chuen

(x) O1 – Workers at Metroplaza

(xi) O2 – Workers at Kwai Chung Industrial Area

(xii) O3 – Workers at Kwai Fong Ancillary Building

(xiii) O4 – Staff and Visitors at Polyclinic & Special Educational Services

(xiv) O6 – Workers at Ever Gain Plaza

(xv) O7 – Staff and Workers at Container Terminals

(xvi) O8 – Staff and Students at Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School

(xvii) O9 – Workers at Lai King MTR Station

(xviii) O10 – Staff at Lai King Assessment Centre

(xix) O11 – Staff and Visitors at OUHK – CITA Lai King Learning Centre

(xx) O12 – Staff and Visitors to Lai King Community Hall

(xxi) O13 – Staff and Students at Asbury Methodist Primary School

(xxii) L1 – Visitors to Kwai Shun Street Playground

(xxiii) L2 – Visitors to Kwai Yip Road Playground

(xxiv) L3 – Visitors to Lai King Sports Centre

(xxv) L4 – Visitors to Kwai Chung Park

(xxvi) L5 – Visitors to Lai King Hill Road Playground

(xxvii) T4 – Commuters at Lai King Bus Terminus

(xxviii) T5 – Commuters on MTR

(xxix) T6 – Travellers to Kwai Fong Core Area

These groups of VSRs will have insubstantial impact on them from Day 1 of operation due to the following factors:

(i) The proposed new flyover and noise barrier structure are at a distance away from their respective locations such as R1, R2, R3, R4, R5A, R7, R8, R9, O11, O12, O13, L2, L3, L4 and L5 such that the appearance of the new structures blend into the existing web of existing flyover system.

(ii) The proposed new flyover and noise barrier structure will only be visible either through narrow viewing angles, in between building structures, or flyover columns for these groups of VSRs such as R6, O8, and L1.

(iii) The duration for which the VSRs will be exposed to the proposed new flyover and noise barrier structures is short as travel through the area within seconds or minutes and is represented by T4, T5 and T6.

(iv) Those VSRs that are Staff and workers of the offices and factories in the study area such as O1, O2, O3, O4, O6, O7, O8, O9 and O10 will be considered to have higher tolerance to visual impacts and their presence in the study area is short in comparison to local residents.

(e) Slightly beneficial residual impacts will be experienced by the following identified VSRs:

Although the proposed new carriageway will be largely integrated with the existing infrastructure, and urban context, the implementation of mitigation measures in the area is expected to improve the general appearance of the streetscape with new shrubs plantings and other landscape enhancements in the area. By Year 10, after the new planted shrubs have fully established and the anticipated greening effect has taken root, the overall landscape treatment in the area as seen on ground level will be expected to be improved and slightly beneficial impacts after completion are expected by Year 10 of operation. This is applicable to the following VSRs.

(i) T1 – Open Storage Area Car Park Users

(ii) T2 – Pedestrians travelling on Street Level under Kwai Chung Raod Interchange Area

Table 7-13 Significance of Visual Impacts during Construction and Operation Phases (VSRs)

Id. No.	VSRs	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)	Source of Impact	Magnitude of Change (Large/ Intermediate/ Small/ Negligible)		Significance Threshold (Unmitigated) (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate and Substantial)		Mitigation Measures	Significance Residual Threshold (Mitigated) (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate and Substantial)
				Con.	Op.	Con.	Op.		Con.	Op.
				Con.	Op.	Con.	Op.		Con.	Day 1	Year 10
Residential
R1	Kwai Chung Plaza	Medium	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R2	New Kwai Fong Gardens	Medium	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R3	Kwai Fong Terrace	Medium	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R4	Lai Yiu Estate	Medium	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R5	Lai King Estate North	High	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Intermediate	Small	Moderately Adverse	Slightly Adverse	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4,	Moderately Adverse	Slightly adverse	Insubstantial
R5A	Lai King Estate South	High	VIC1,2,3,4,5 VIO1,2,3, 4,	Small	Negligible	Moderately Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R6	Yin Lai Court	Medium	VIC1,2,3,4,5 VIO1,2,3	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R7	Highland Park	Medium	VIC1,2,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R8	Residents at Yuet Lai Court	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R9	Residents at Cho Yiu Chuen	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Occupational
O1	Metroplaza	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O2	Kwai Chung Industrial Area	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O3	Kwai Fong Ancillary Building	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O4	Polyclinic & Special Educational Services	Medium	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4,	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O5	Lai King Catholic Secondary School	Medium	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Intermediate	Small	Moderately Adverse	Slightly Adverse	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Moderately Adverse	Slightly adverse	Insubstantial
O6	Ever Gain Plaza	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Intermediate	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O7	Container Terminals	Low	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O8	Lingnan Dr. Chung Wing Kwong Memorial Secondary School	Medium	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O9	Lai King MTR Station	Low	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O10	Lai King Assessment Centre	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O11	OUHK – CITA Lai King Learning Centre	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O12	Lai King Community Hall	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
O13	Asbury Methodist Primary School	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Leisure
L1	Kwai Shun Street Playground	Medium	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
L2	Visitors to Kwai Yip Road Playground	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
L3	Visitors to Lai King Sports Centre	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
L4	Visitors to Kwai Chung Park	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
L5	Visitors to Lai King Hill Road Playground	Medium	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Traveller
T1	Open Storage Area Car Park Users	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Intermediate	Small	Slightly Adverse	Slightly Adverse	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Slightly Adverse	Slightly Beneficial
T2	Pedestrians Travelling on Street Level under Kwai Chung Road Interchange	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Intermediate	Small	Slightly Adverse	Slightly Adverse	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Slightly adverse	Slightly Beneficial
T3	Commuters on Tsuen Wan Road/Kwai Chung Road	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3,4,5	Intermediate	Small	Slightly Adverse	Slightly Adverse	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Slightly adverse	Insubstantial
T4	Commuters at Lai King Bus Terminus	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
T5	Commuters on MTR	Low	VIC1,2,3,4,5,6 VIO1,2,3	Small	Negligible	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	CP1,2 OP1,2,3,4	Slightly Adverse	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
T6	Travellers to Kwai Fong Core Area	Low	--	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	--	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial

Note: “--” denotes no source of impact and mitigation measure due to non-visible from the proposed works.

VIO1 – New Viaduct	Permanent pre-stressed concrete box girder viaduct
VIO2 – Noise Barrier Structure	Permanent noise barrier associated with the new viaduct
VIO3 – New Footbridge	Permanent footbridge structure
VIO4 – New Shrub Planting	New shrub planting
VIO5 – Streetscape Enhancement	Landscape elements such as pedestrian walkway paving enhancement, street furniture and lighting

VIC1 – Loss of Existing Vegetations	Removal of existing trees and shrubs for the new viaduct, footbridge and road widening works
VIC2 – Site Hoarding/Offices	Establishment of site offices and erection of hoardings
VIC3 – Dismantlement of Existing Footbridge	Dismantlement of the existing footbridge for the down ramp of the new carriageway
VIC4 – Road Widening Works	Widening section of Tsuen Wan Road
VIC5 – Construction of Noise Barriers	Construction of noise barriers along the new viaduct
VIC6 – Construction of New Footbridge	Re-provision of the footbridge north close to the Lai King Catholic Secondary School

7.1.1 The aim of this Section of Report is to assess the potential landscape and visual impacts arising from the construction and operation of the Project and associated works and to propose measures to mitigate these impacts.

7.2 Environmental Legislation, Standards and Guidelines

7.2.1 The following Legislation, Standards, Guidelines and Criteria are applicable to the evaluation of landscape and visual impacts associated with the construction and operation of the project:

Introduction

7.3.1 The Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) in this study follows the methodology as listed below:-

Landscape Impact Assessment

7.3.2 Landscape and visual impacts have been assessed separately for the construction and operation phases.

7.3.3 The assessment of landscape impacts has involved the following procedures:-

Tree Survey Methodology

7.3.4 In accordance with Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No. 10/2013, all existing trees whose trunk diameters measure 95mm or more at a height of 1.3m above ground level were identified. Every tree surveyed individually is recorded with the following information:

7.3.5 The baseline survey of all views towards the proposed new carriageway structures and associated facilities is undertaken by identifying:

7.3.7 The sensitivity of each group is also influenced by its location and direction of view relative to the scheme. Typical viewpoints from each of the visually sensitive groups are identified and their views described.

7.3.8 The magnitude of changes of each VSR is affected by the following factors:

7.3.9 The degree of visual impact is rated in a similar fashion to the landscape impacts. Impacts can be beneficial or adverse.

Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

7.4.1 The scope of the LVIA study shall cover the proposed road widening and associated works. The LVIA study shall address the potential landscape and visual impacts during the construction and operation of the project.

7.4.2 The assessment shall follow the criteria and guidelines for evaluating and assessing landscape and visual impacts as stated in Annexes 10 and 18 of the TM, and the EIAO Guideline Note No. 8/2010 “Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment under the EIAO”.

7.4.3 The study area for the landscape impact assessment shall include areas within a distance of 500 metres from the site boundary of the Project while the study area for the visual impact assessment shall be defined by the visual envelop of the project.

7.4.4 The layout plan for LVIA is shown in Figure 7.1.

7.5.1 A review of the existing and planned development framework for the proposed works and for the surroundings is undertaken. The review of OZP includes a review of the plans, Notes and Explanatory Statements.

7.5.2 The project boundary outlined on the extracted Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) No. S/KC/28 is shown as below.

7.6 Baseline Study

Identification

7.6.1 This baseline study identifies and describes the landscape resources and landscape character areas and the visual amenity within the assessment area that will be affected during the construction and operation phases of the Project.

7.6.2 Landscape resources (LRs) identified within the assessment area includes roadside planting areas with existing trees, public open spaces, and recreational grounds. The landscape resources that will be potentially affected during the construction and operation phase are described below:

7.6.3 The identified landscape resources in each group are discussed in details below and presented in Figure 7.2, whereas photos of the key landscape resources are shown on Figure 7.5.

Impacts on Existing Trees

7.6.4 A survey of existing trees within the study area identified a total number of 85 trees within the tree survey boundary. Typical roadside tree planting is common with a majority of the trees having reached a mature stature. The trees are of various sizes and species.

7.6.5 None of these are Registered Old and Valuable Trees. There are no rare and endangered species but only common species.

7.6.6 A total number of 85 trees were identified within or in close proximity to the proposed road works and are likely to be affected by the proposed works.

Landscape Character Areas

7.6.9 The eight major LCAs identified within the assessment area are described as below:-

Potential Sources of Landscape Impacts

7.6.11 The potential sources of landscape impact during operation will include the permanent loss of trees, completed new carriageway, footbridges, noise barriers, new shrubs planting and streetscape enhancement.

Magnitude of Landscape Impacts

7.6.12 The magnitude of unmitigated landscape impact associated with the construction phase and operational phases of the Project are assessed and described below:

7.6.13 The magnitude of change, before implementation of mitigation measures, in the construction and operation phases are assessed and presented in Table 7-5. All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated.

7.6.17 There would not be any discernible landscape impact on other LRs and LCAs and their magnitude of impact is negligible.

Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

7.6.18 This baseline study identifies and describes the visual zones and visual sensitive receivers (VSRs) that will be affected during the construction and operation phases of the Project.

7.6.21 VSRs identified within the ZVI are listed below and their existing visual context is illustrated in Figure 7.4; photographic record of key VSRs are listed in Figures 7.7A to 7.7C.

7.6.22 The degrees of sensitivity of selected VSRs within the ZVI to accommodate changes are demonstrated in Table 7-8. The magnitude of changes related to the VSRs before mitigation are demonstrated in Table 7-9.

Pedestrian currently using the footbridges and sidewalks to travel between the Lai King MTR Station and Kwai Chung Industrial Area and Container Terminal will be exposed to the proposed construction works. Without mitigation, the impact to this VSR is slightly adverse.

With the completion of the construction work, there will be no perceptible change of quality of view as the area will return more or less close to its current condition. All these VSRs will have insubstantial impacts from the proposed road works.

7.9.2 The landscape and visual mitigation measures are described both in a generic sense for measures which apply to all of the development site and in terms of the proposed landscape strategy for the amenity areas within the development. The aim of the mitigation measures is to:

Primary Mitigation Measures

7.9.3 In accordance with the EIAO-TM, the hierarchy for landscape and visual impact mitigation is first avoidance of impact, then minimisation of impact and finally compensation of impact. The design of the proposed structures sought to address the following objectives:

Secondary Mitigation Measures

7.9.4 In accordance with the EIAO-TM, mitigation measures for the construction and operation phases of the development have been designed to minimise predicted landscape and visual impacts, and to compensate for the loss of landscape resources as far as possible given the project constraints.

7.9.5 A series of mitigation measures are designed to alleviate impacts and compensate for loss of landscape resources, change of landscape character and visual amenity for VSRs resulting from the construction and operation phases of the Project. The mitigation details are presented in Figure 7.9.

7.9.6 The mitigation measures are summarized in Tables 7.10 and 7.11 below:-

7.9.7 The photomontages of the landscape and visual impacts of the Project with and without mitigation measures during operation from a VSR (R5 – Residents at Lai King Estate North) are illustrated at the following four stages as shown in Figure 7.18.

7.10 Residual Impacts

Evaluation of Residual Impacts on Landscape Resources and Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation

7.10.2 There will still be some residual negative impacts after the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures in the construction phase and is as described below.

Evaluation of Residual Visual Impacts with Mitigation

7.11.1 The design, implementation and maintenance of landscape and visual mitigation measures are key aspects and should be checked to ensure that they are fully realised; thus EM&A for landscape and visual resources should be undertaken.

Audit Requirements

7.12.1 Construction phase mitigation measures will comprise the following (described in detail in Table 7-10):

7.12.2 Operation phase mitigation measures will comprise the following (described in detail in Table 7-11):

7.12.3 All other LRs, LCAs and VSRs will experience insubstantial impacts.

7.12.4 All other LRs, LCAs and VSRs will experience insubstantial impacts.

Overall

7.12.6 Except for the existing trees, there would be no loss of landscape resources in the area. With the implementation of landscape mitigation measures, it is considered that the residual impact on landscape resource is slight to insubstantial in Year 10 of the operation phase.

7.12.10 Residual impacts on other VSRs are insubstantial from Day 1 of operation phase.

7.12.11 In view of the above, it is considered that the overall landscape and visual impact in association with the construction and operation of the proposed works with the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures are acceptable.