10. Landscape and Visual Impact
10.2 Landscape and Visual Legislation, Standards and
Guidelines
10.3 Scope and Content of Study
10.4 Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Methodology
10.6 Landscape Impact Assessment
10.9 Environmental Monitoring and Audit
10.
LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT
10.1.1 This chapter of the report presents an assessment of the potential landscape and visual impacts associated with the Port Shelter Sewerage Stage 3 Works, Po Toi O in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) and the requirements of the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-258/2013). Both construction and operation impacts are assessed. The Project boundary is illustrated in Figure 10.1.
10.1.2
The
assessment includes:
· A listing of the relevant environmental legislation and guidelines;
· A definition of the scope and contents of the study, including a description of the assessment methodology;
· A review of the relevant planning and development control framework;
· A baseline study providing a comprehensive and accurate description of the baseline landscape and visual resources, landscape character areas, zone of visual influence and key groups of existing and planned visually sensitive receivers (VSRs);
· Identification of the source of landscape and visual impacts;
· Recommendation of appropriate mitigation measures and associated implementation programmes;
· Assessment of the potential landscape and visual impacts, by taking into account the sensitivity of receivers, prediction of the magnitude of change experienced by the receivers and resulting potential impact significance, before and after the mitigation measures; and
· Clear evaluations and explanation with supportive arguments of all relevant factors considered in arriving at the significance thresholds of the landscape and visual impacts.
10.1.3 Colour photographs showing baseline conditions, and photomontages and illustrative materials supporting conclusions are provided and the locations of all viewpoints are clearly mapped. Photomontages at representative locations provide comparison between existing views; proposals on Day 1 after completion without mitigation; on Day 1 after mitigation, and in Year 10 after mitigation.
10.2
Landscape and Visual Legislation, Standards and Guidelines
10.2.1 The following environmental legislation, standards and guidelines are applicable to the evaluation of landscape and visual impacts associated with the construction and operation of the Project:
· An Ordinance to provide for assessing the impact on the environment of certain projects and proposals, for protecting the environment and for incidental matters.
· The Technical Memorandum sets out the principles, procedures, guidelines, requirements and criteria for the technical content of an environmental impact assessment study brief or Landscape & Visual Impact Assessment Report.
· The Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines (HKPSG) is a Government manual of criteria for determining the scale, location and site requirements of various land uses and facilities.
· Essential landscape baseline information to provide a systematic reference framework to facilitate landscape assessment and broad environmental assessment of major projects at territorial level.
· The Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance, (Cap 499) Guidance Note advises on the requirements in vetting Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment of designated projects under the Technical Memorandum on EIA Process for the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance.
· To promote the health, safety, convenience and general welfare of the community by making provision for the systematic preparation and approval of plans for the lay-out of areas of Hong Kong as well as for the types of building suitable for erection therein and for the preparation and approval of plans for areas within which permission is required for development.
· To provide for the publication of proposals in respect of reclamations over and upon any foreshore and sea-bed; to make provision in respect of objections to the proposals, the payment of compensation and connected matters; and to repeal the Public Reclamations and Works Ordinance (Cap 113, 1984 Ed.) and the Foreshores and Sea Bed Ordinance (Cap 127, 1984 Ed.).
· To consolidate and amend the law relating to forests and plants, and to provide for the protection of the countryside.
· To provide for the designation, control and management of country parks and special areas.
· To provide for the designation, control and management of Marine Parks and Marine Reserves.
· To regulate the import, introduction from the sea, export, re-export, and possession or control of certain endangered species of animals and plants and parts and derivatives of those species; and to provide for incidental and connected matters.
· This publication presents guidance on good practice for landscape treatments for man-made slopes and engineering works on natural terrain in Hong Kong.
· It is policy to ensure that no tree is felled unnecessarily nor, where control exists, without the prior consent of Government and that whenever possible, and appropriate, approval of the felling of any tree is made subject to a compensatory landscaping/replanting scheme.
· This circular sets out the standards and requirements on site coverage of greenery for new government building projects and the methodology of measurement and calculation for the purpose of the required site coverage of greenery.
· This circular sets out the departmental responsibilities for maintenance of vegetation and hard landscape features.
· This circular sets out the procedures for registration of old and valuable trees on unleased Government land within built-up areas and tourist attraction spots in village areas.
· This circular provides an administrative framework to better protect all natural streams/rivers from the impacts of construction works. The procedures promulgated under this Circular aim to clarify and strengthen existing measures for protection of natural streams/rivers from government projects and private developments.
· This circular outlines the design principles recommended to be used in designing manmade slopes for Public Works projects in order to reduce their adverse visual impact.
· This circular outlines the principles and procedures recommended for all departments involved in new slope formation and in upgrading and maintenance of existing slopes for reducing the aesthetic and environmental impact of slope works.
· This circular affirms the advocated policy on tree planting which adopts a flexible and balanced approach in the planning and design of tree planting for public works projects.
· These guidelines provide general reference on implementing measures on yard waste reduction and treatment in various stages from planting design to maintenance and suggest ways of how yard waste can be reduced, reused and recycled (3Rs).
10.2.2
Review of Relevant Planning
and Development Control Framework
· A review will be undertaken of the relevant planning and development control framework for the landscape Study Area (500 m beyond the limit of the works). The relevant OZP for the project works is the Approved Clearwater Bay Peninsula South Outline Zoning Plan No. S/SK – CWBS/2, an extract of which is shown in Figure 10.2 and a description of which is provided in Section 10.5.3.
10.3
Scope and Content of Study
10.3.1
Project
Site Boundary
The Project Site boundary comprises a sewage treatment plant on Po Toi O Chuen Road, associated sewage mains and a submarine outfall into Clear Water Bay, which is shown in Figure 10.1.
10.3.3
Limits of Study Area
The limit of the landscape impact study is 500 m beyond the boundary of the works (as stated in the EIA Study Brief), which is shown in Figure 10.1). The limit of the visual impact study is the Visual Envelope or the Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) of the works during the construction and operation phases (as stated in the EIA study brief, which is illustrated in Figures 10.9 and 10.10).
10.4
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Methodology
Landscape and visual impacts shall be assessed separately for the construction and operation phases. The assessment of landscape impacts shall involve the following procedures.
10.4.2
Landscape
Impact Methodology
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 |
Large: |
The landscape or landscape resource would suffer a major change |
Intermediate: |
The landscape or landscape resource would suffer a moderate change |
Small: |
The landscape or landscape resource would suffer slight or barely perceptible changes |
Negligible: |
The landscape or landscape resource would suffer no discernible change |
None: |
The landscape or landscape resource would suffer absolutely no impact |
Substantial: |
Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality |
Moderate: |
Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality |
Slight: |
Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality |
Insubstantial: |
No discernible change in the existing landscape quality |
None |
Absolutely no change in the existing landscape quality |
Table 10-1: Relationship between Receptor Sensitivity
and Magnitude of Change in Defining Impact Significance
Note: The colours in the above table categorise the total
spectrum of impacts rising from the lowest value at the bottom left corner to
the highest value at the top right corner. It may be seen that for some
combination of classification levels of Magnitude of Change and Receptor
Sensitivity, there are 2 possible impact significance thresholds. When the
Magnitude of Change and Receptor Sensitivity are assessed to be towards the
higher ends of each classification level the resultant impact significance
would be deemed to be the higher of the two impact significance thresholds. |
· The impact is beneficial if the project will complement the landscape and visual character of its setting, will follow the relevant planning objectives and will improve overall and visual quality;
· The impact is acceptable if the assessment indicates that there will be no significant effects on the landscape, no significant visual effects caused by the appearance of the project, or no interference with key views;
· The impact is acceptable with mitigation measures if there will be some adverse effects, but these can be eliminated, reduced or offset to a large extent by specific measures;
· The impact is unacceptable if the adverse effects are considered too excessive and are unable to mitigate practically;
· The impact is undetermined if significant adverse effects are likely, but the extent to which they may occur or may be mitigated cannot be determined from the study. Further detailed study will be required for the specific effects in question.
10.4.3
Broad
Brush Tree Survey Methodology
10.4.4
Visual
Impact Methodology
· The type of VSRs, classified according to whether the person is at home, at work, at play, or travelling. Those who view the impact from their homes are considered to be highly sensitive as the attractiveness or otherwise of the outlook from their home will have a substantial effect on their perception of the quality and acceptability of their home environment and their general quality of life. Those who view the impact from their workplace are considered to be only moderately sensitive as the attractiveness or otherwise of the outlook will have a less important, although still material, effect on their perception of their quality of life. The degree to which this applies depends on whether the workplace is industrial, retail or commercial. Those who view the impact while taking part in an outdoor leisure activity may display varying sensitivity depending on the type of leisure activity. Those who view the impact while travelling on a public thoroughfare will also display varying sensitivity depending on the speed of travel.
· Other factors which are considered (as required by EIAO GN 8/2010) include the value and quality of existing views and views from planned developments, the availability and amenity of alternative views, the duration or frequency of view, and the degree of visibility.
High: |
The VSR is highly sensitive to any change in their viewing experience |
Medium: |
The VSR is moderately sensitive to any change in their viewing experience |
Low: |
The VSR is only slightly sensitive to any change in their viewing experience |
Duration and Frequency of the impact: |
Temporary / Permanent: This refers to the long term presence of the visual change – whether it is experienced by the VSR for the whole duration of the construction phase or operation phase, or only part thereof. Intermittent / Continuous: This refers to short term frequency of the visual change - is it always visible (continuous) or only at certain times (intermittent). For example, travelling VSRs may only see the source intermittently as they travel along their journey, whereas residential VSRs may have continuous views from their living room. |
Reversibility of the impact: |
Reversible / Irreversible |
Compatibility of the project with the Visual Backdrop: |
High / Medium / Low |
Distance of the source of impact from the viewer: |
Shortest distance measured in metres (m) between the VSR and the source. |
Degree of visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact: |
Full: virtually full uninterrupted view of the source of impact Partial: partial view of the source of impact which is slightly hidden by intervening elements such as buildings, vegetation etc. Obscured: partial view of the source of impact which is largely hidden by intervening elements such as buildings, vegetation etc. |
Scale of the development |
Small / Medium / Large |
Potential Blockage of Existing Views |
Full / Partial / Slight / Negligible: The degree to which the source of the impact blocks existing open views currently experienced by the VSR. |
Large: |
The VSRs would suffer a major change in their viewing experience; |
Intermediate: |
The VSRs would suffer a moderate change in their viewing experience; |
Small: |
The VSRs would suffer a small change in their viewing experience; |
Negligible: |
The VSRs would suffer no discernible change in their viewing experience; |
None |
The VSRs would suffer absolutely no change in their viewing experience. |
Substantial: |
Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality perceived by the general population; |
Moderate: |
Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality perceived by the general population; |
Slight: |
Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality perceived by the general population; |
Insubstantial: |
No discernible change in the existing visual quality perceived by the general population; |
None |
Absolutely no change in the existing visual quality perceived by the general population. |
10.4.5
Assumptions
and Limitations
· Funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the landscape and visual mitigation proposals must be satisfactorily resolved according to the principles in DEVB TC(W) No. 6/2015. All mitigation proposals in the EIA report shall be practical and achievable within the known parameters of funding, implementation, management and maintenance. The suggested agents for the funding and implementation (and subsequent management and maintenance, if applicable) are indicated in the EIA report. Agreement to the implementation, management and maintenance of the proposed mitigation measures have been sought and obtained from the appropriate authorities.
· Existing Baseline Conditions in November 2014;
· Day 1 of completed works without mitigation measures;
· Day 1 of the completed works with mitigation measures; and
· The completed works with mitigation after 10 years.
10.5.1
Landscape
and Visual Study Area
The landscape impact Study Area is 500m from the works boundary and is defined on Figure 10.1. For the purposes of this assessment, this has been offset from the location of the Sewage Treatment Plant, and the furthest extent of the submarine outfall. This encompasses the enclosed bay of Po Toi O which lies on the southern end of the Clear Water Bay Peninsula. It includes the coastal village areas of Tai Wong Kung on the west side of the bay and Po Toi O on the east side of the bay. The western side of the landscape impact Study Area includes the lower slopes of Tin Ha Shan. The eastern side of the Study Area includes the Clear Water Bay Golf Course which lies on an elevated headland. Tai Au Mun Road runs through the western edge of the Study Area and Po Toi O Chuen Road runs through the central part of the Study Area. The visual study area is defined by the visual envelope or Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) and is illustrated on Figures 10.9 and 10.10. The visual envelope is generally the view shed formed by natural/man-made features such as ridgelines or building blocks and is the area from which any part of the proposed Project can be seen and it is thus larger than the landscape study area and includes Clear Water Bay and its surrounding hills to the north. The absolute outer limit of the visual envelope for study purposes is 10km beyond which the effects of visual impacts are negligible due to the distance. For this project, the limits of the ZVI fall well within the maximum limit ZVI limit due to the natural effects of topography. Two ZVI’s have been identified, one for the construction stage of the project during which the temporary construction works associated with the construction of the submarine outfall in Clear Water Bay will be visible and one for the operation stage when the temporary visual impacts to Clear Water Bay will no longer be visible.
10.5.2
Committed
and Approved Projects under Construction
(i)
Construction
of a roundabout near the existing minibus stop in Po Toi O; and
(ii)
Maintenance
dredging of Poi Toi O Fish Culture Zone.
There is no definite programme for
the above project works and in the absence of information it is therefore assumed
that they will not be carried out concurrently with the Project.
10.5.3
Review
of Current Land-Uses within the Study Area
·
Coastal
Protection Area (“CPA”): This zoning is intended to conserve, protect and
retain the natural coastlines and the sensitive coastal natural environment,
including attractive geological features, physical landform or area of high
landscape, scenic or ecological value, with a minimum of built development. It
may also cover areas which serve as natural protection areas sheltering nearby
developments against the effects of coastal erosion. There is a general
presumption against development in this zone. In general, only developments
that are needed to support the conservation of the existing natural landscape
or scenic quality of the area or are infrastructure projects with overriding
public interest may be permitted.
· Village Type Development (“V”): the planning intention of this zone is to reflect existing recognized and other villages, and to provide land considered suitable for village expansion and reprovisioning of village houses affected by Government projects. Land within this zone is primarily intended for development of Small Houses by indigenous villagers. It is also intended to concentrate village type development within this zone for a more orderly development pattern, efficient use of land and provision of infrastructures and services. Selected commercial and community uses serving the needs of the villagers and in support of the village development are always permitted on the ground floor of a New Territories Exempted House. Other commercial, community and recreational uses may be permitted on application to the Town Planning Board.
· Open Space (“O”): this zone is intended primarily for the provision of outdoor open-air public space for active and/or passive recreational uses serving the needs of local residents as well as the general public.
· Green Belt (“GB”): the planning intention of this zone is primarily for defining the limits of urban and sub-urban development areas by natural features and to contain urban sprawl as well as to provide passive recreational outlets. There is a general presumption against development within this zone.
· Conservation Area (“CA”): this zoning is intended to protect and retain the existing natural landscape, ecological or topographical features of the area for conservation, educational and research purposes and to separate sensitive natural environment such as Country Park from the adverse effects of development. There is a general presumption against development in this zone. In general, only developments that are needed to support the conservation of the existing natural landscape or scenic quality of the area or are essential infrastructure projects with overriding public interest may be permitted.
· Other Specified Uses (“OU”): this zone is intended primarily for the sport and recreation club and marina development.
Designated Country Park
Clear Water Bay Country
Park lies to the west of the OZP boundary which is demarcated by Tai Au Mun Road. The small
portion lying with the study boundary consists of natural upland wooded slopes.
The proposed Project does not physically
impact the Country Park.
Fish Culture Zone
A gazetted Fish Culture
Zone (FCZ) is located in the waters around Po Toi O in which any development
should not affect the water quality. The
extent of the FCZ is indicated on Figure 10.1.
Conclusion
The proposed sewage
treatment plant would be constructed on land currently zoned “CA”. A planning
application is required to be submitted to Town Planning Board for approval
separately.
10.5.4
Landscape
Resources
(LRs)
LR1 –Coastal Waters
LR2 – Streams
LR3 – Natural Rocky Coastline
LR4 - Natural Coastal Upland Vegetation
LR5 – Domestic Amenity Tree and Shrub Planting
LR6 – Amenity Grass Areas
LR7 – Artificial Ponds
Table 10-2: Landscape
Resources
Ref. ID. |
Description
|
Sensitivity
to Change (Low, Medium, High) |
LR1 |
Coastal waters Baseline: approx.
73.6 ha |
Medium |
LR2 |
Streams Baseline: approx.
530 m |
Medium |
LR3 |
Natural Rocky
Coastline Baseline: approx.
2,300 m |
Medium |
LR4 |
Natural Coastal
Upland Vegetation Baseline: approx.
40.3 ha |
High |
LR5 |
Domestic Amenity
Tree & Shrub Planting Baseline: approx.
0.2 ha |
Low |
LR6 |
Amenity Grass
Areas Baseline: approx.
34.6 ha |
Low |
LR7 |
Artificial Pond Baseline: approx.
1.1 ha |
Low |
10.5.5
Landscape
Character Areas
(LCAs)
LCA1 – Coastal Upland and Hillside Landscape
LCA2- Bay Landscape
LCA3 – Intertidal Bay Landscape
LCA4 - Coastal Village Landscape
LCA5 - Golf Course Landscape
The sensitivities for the LCAs identified above are summarised in Table 10-3 below.
Table 10-3: Landscape
Character Areas
Ref. ID. |
Description |
Sensitivity to Change (Low, Medium, High) |
LCA1 |
Coastal Upland and
Hillside Landscape Baseline: 61.4 ha |
High |
LCA2 |
Bay Landscape Baseline: 70.3 ha |
High |
LCA3 |
Intertidal Bay
Landscape Baseline: 15.0 ha |
High |
LCA4 |
Coastal Village
Landscape Baseline: 5.8 ha |
Medium |
LCA5 |
Golf Course Landscape Baseline: 33.9 ha |
Low |
10.5.7
Summary
of Tree Impacts
10.5.8
Baseline
Visual Elements
(i)
The
visual context is dominated by the natural topography that consists of steep
vegetated slopes rising from the sea to peaks and ridgelines that form an arc
from the north east to the south east that defines the visual envelope of the
Project site (refer Figure 10.8.2, VC3 for typical character of the landform).
The landform includes ridges, valleys, headlands and the coastline
encloses large seawater bays.
(ii)
Two
seawater bays provide a dramatic contrast to the landward topography. Clear Water Bay is the largest of the two and
lies to the north and Po Toi O is smaller and more enclosed and lies to the
south (refer Figure 10.8.2, VC1 to VC4).
(iii)
The
coastline is predominantly rocky and steep forming a wild and rugged shore
(refer Figure 10.8.2, VC2). Clear Water Bay First and
Second Beaches are sandy stretches that are popular with visitors due to their
scenic quality. The southern portion of
Po Toi O is shallow and the intertidal zone forms distinctive mudflats at low
tide.
(iv)
Small
village type settlements have grown up on the fringes of the coast in Po Toi O
(refer Figure 10.8.2, VC4) and in valley locations such as Tai Au Mun. These are of small scale and provide an
interesting visual contrast to the natural elements.
(v)
Roads
serving the area are visually prominent when viewed from elevated viewpoints as
they form a break in the vegetated hillslopes (refer Figure 10.8.2, VC2). However their alignment
generally follows the natural contours which aid their integration with the
general visual context.
(vi)
The
eastern portion of the headland enclosing Po Toi O is occupied by the Clear
Water Bay Golf Course. The rolling
modified landform with open expanse of amenity sports turf forms a visual
contrast to the natural vegetation cladding the hills in the rest of the study
area (refer Figure 10.7, LCA5).
(i)
View
from Tai Leng Tung: hikers on the trails on this mountain have expansive
panoramic views to the south over the Project site (refer Figure 10.8.4, REC-4).
(ii)
View
from Clear Water Bay Country Park Visitor Centre: visitors and workers have
expansive panoramic views to the south over the Project site (refer Figure 10.17, Photomontage Viewpoint 4).
(iii)
Tai
Au Mun: residents in Tai Au Mun have expansive panoramic views to the south
over the Project site (refer Figure 10.8.3, RES-5).
(iv)
High
Junk Peak: at 344m, this hill represents the high point of the High Junk Peak
Country Trail and affords hikers expansive panoramic views to the south east
over the Project site (refer Figure 10.8.5, REC-7).
(v)
Clear
Water Bay First and Second Beaches: these beaches provide open, panoramic views
east across Clear Water Bay (refer Figure 10.8.5, REC-8 and REC-9, and Figure 10.18, Photomontage Viewpoint 5).
(vi)
Tin
Ha Shan: at 273m, this hill is the first vantage point of the High Junk Peak Country
Trail and affords hikers expansive views east across the Project site (refer Figure 10.8.4, REC-1).
(vii)
Tai
Wong Kung: residents experience panoramic views east and south across Po Toi O
(refer Figure 10.8.3, RES-2).
(viii)
Tai
Au Mun Road: motorists experience panoramic views east across Po Toi O (refer Figure 10.15, Photomontage Viewpoint 2).
(ix)
Clear
Water Bay Golf Course: players on the course have elevated panoramic views
north and west across Po Toi O (refer Figure 10.8.4, REC-2).
(x)
Fairway
Vista: residents have panoramic views west across upper Po Toi O (refer Figure 10.8.3, RES-4).
10.5.9
Zone
of Visual Influence (ZVI)
10.5.10 Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)
10.5.11 The residential VSRs RES-1 to RES-5 are few in number due to the small scale village type development of the settlements. Their sensitivity to visual change is assessed as ‘High’ due to their existing, static permanent views.
10.5.12 The recreational VSRs REC-1, REC-3, REC-4, REC-5, REC-7, REC-8 and REC-9 all have ‘High’ sensitivity to change a hikers, visitors to country parks, scenic beaches and bays do so specifically to enjoy a high quality of visual experience. REC-2 Players on Clear Water Bay Golf Course and REC-6 Visitors to Seafood Restaurants in Po Toi O are assessed as having a ‘Medium’ sensitivity to visual change as the view is secondary to their primary activities of golf and dining respectively.
10.5.13 The Travelling VSRs T-1a to T-3 have been assessed as having a ‘Medium’ sensitivity to change as although their visual experience is short-lived and their reason for travel may be varied, their visual experience of this scenic area is important to the quality of their driving experience.
10.5.14 The occupational VSRs O-1 to O-3 are assessed as having a ‘Low’ sensitivity to visual change as their primary focus in not on their external environment.
Table 10-4: Key
Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)
VSR ID. |
Key VSR |
Value and Quality of Existing View (Poor, Fair , Good) |
Availability of Alternative Views (Yes, No) |
Number of Individuals (Very Few, Many, |
Sensitivity to Change (Low, Medium, High) |
|||
|
|
|
|
Construction |
Operation |
Construction |
Operation |
|
Residential VSRs |
||||||||
RES-1 |
Residents in Po Toi O
Village |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
RES-2 |
Residents at Tai Wong
Kung |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
RES-3 |
Residents of Cala d’Or |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
RES-4 |
Residents in Fairway
Vista |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
RES-5 |
Residents at Tai Au Mun |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
Recreational VSRs |
||||||||
REC-1 |
Hikers on Tin Ha Shan |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
REC-2 |
Players on the Clear
Water Bay Golf Course |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
Medium |
Medium |
|
REC-3 |
Visitors to Clear Water
Bay Country Park Visitor Centre |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
High |
High |
|
REC-4 |
Hikers on Tai Leng Tung |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
REC-5 |
Recreational Craft in
Clear Water Bay |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
High |
High |
|
REC6 |
Visitors to Seafood
Restaurants in Po Toi O |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
Medium |
Medium |
|
REC-7 |
Hikers on High Junk Peak
Country Trail |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
High |
High |
|
REC-8 |
Users of Clear Water Bay
First Beach |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
High |
High |
|
REC-9 |
Users of Clear Water Bay
Second Beach |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
High |
High |
|
Travelling VSRs |
||||||||
T-1a |
Drivers/Passengers along
Tai Au Mun Road |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
Medium |
Medium |
|
T-1b |
Drivers/Passengers along
Tai Au Mun Road |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
Medium |
Medium |
|
T-2 |
Drivers/Passengers along
Poi To O Chuen Road |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
Medium |
Medium |
|
T-3 |
Drivers/Passengers along
Clear Water Bay Road to Tai Hang Tun |
Good |
Yes |
Many |
Many |
Medium |
Medium |
|
Occupational VSRs |
||||||||
O-1 |
Fishermen in Po Toi O |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
Low |
Low |
|
O-2 |
Workers / Staff at Clear
Water Bay Country Park Visitor Centre |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
Low |
Low |
|
O-3 |
Workers in Seafood
Restaurants in Po Toi O |
Good |
Yes |
Few |
Few |
Low |
Low |
|
Note: ‘Duration and Frequency of Views’ and
‘Degree of Visibility’ have been
taken into account in assessing the magnitude of change in view experience by
the VSRs and cannot be double counted in determining the sensitivity of the
VSR. |
||||||||
10.6
Landscape Impact Assessment
10.6.1
Potential Sources of Impacts
· Site clearance works at the sewage treatment plant involving the removal of existing trees & vegetation;
· Slope and site excavation works at sewage treatment plant;
· Excavation of trenches along gravity sewers and rising mains alignment;
· Haulage off-site of excavated materials;
· Stockpiling of materials for construction of gravity sewers and rising mains trenches and sewage treatment plant;
· Dust and construction debris;
· Construction of on-site offices and working areas;
· Temporary road works and traffic management;
· Construction night lighting;
· Presence of temporary construction plant, platforms, structures and construction machinery;
· Drilling rig and associated plant for drilling of submarine pipeline on the foreshore north of Po Toi O;
· Temporary cofferdam (10m x 50m, approximately 1.5m above sea surface) and receiving pit in location of submarine sewage outfall;
· Barge (~18m x 40m x 5m height (including machinery such as crane) for dredging at location of submarine sewage outfall; and
· Temporary 3m high movable noise barriers around the sewage treatment plant, along gravity sewers and rising mains alignment; semi-noise enclosure around the drilling plant for the submarine pipeline on the foreshore of Po Toi O (enclosure shall enclose the stationary plant on 3 sides with the side facing the sea left open for heat exhaust; the top shall also be covered).
· Cleared area of foreshore previously used for temporary drilling plant.
· Presence of new sewage treatment building and associated access/parking areas;
· Presence of gravity sewers and rising mains trench covers along existing village roads; and
· Additional operational night lighting.
10.6.2
Landscape
Change before Mitigation in Construction Phase
Landscape Resources
Landscape Character Areas
10.6.3
Landscape Change Before Mitigation in
Operation Phase
Landscape Resources
Landscape Character Areas
Table 10-5: Magnitude of Landscape Change during the
Construction and Operation Phases before Mitigation
ID No. |
Landscape Resources/ Landscape Character
Areas |
Source of Impact |
Description of Impacts |
Magnitude of Change before Mitigation |
LR1 |
Coastal Waters |
Construction -
Barge, and
construction of cofferdam for dredging pit, dredging works at location of
submarine outfall. |
Construction -
Temporary loss
of approximately 0.12 ha of coastal waters (500 sq.m dredging pit & 720
sq.m. barge) -
Baseline area:
73.6 ha. -
Increased marine
traffic/presence of dredging barge |
Small |
Operation -
None |
Operation -
None |
None |
||
LR2 |
Streams |
Construction -
None |
Construction -
None |
None |
Operation -
None |
Operation -
None |
None |
||
LR3 |
Natural Rocky Coastline |
Construction -
Temporary construction
plant, platforms, structures, construction machinery. -
Drilling rig for
drilling of submarine pipe. |
Construction -
Presence of
temporary drilling rig and plant, approximate length of 40m (approximate area
750 sq.m); loss of 22 no. existing living trees -
Baseline length:
2,300m, 23 no. existing living trees. |
Small |
Operation -
None |
Operation -
Disturbed
surface of rocky shoreline caused by temporary plant; absence of 22 no.
existing living trees. |
Small |
||
LR4 |
Natural Coastal Upland
Vegetation |
Construction -
Site clearance
works at the sewage treatment plant involving the removal of existing trees
& vegetation; -
Slope and site
excavation works at sewage treatment plant; -
Excavation of
trenches along gravity sewers and rising mains alignment; -
Dust and
construction debris; -
Construction of
on-site offices and working areas; -
Construction of
temporary plant, platforms, structures, construction machinery and
construction vehicle traffic. |
Construction -
Loss of 4 no.
existing trees -
Impacts to
approximate area of 0.089 ha. -
Baseline area:
40.3 ha., 13 no. existing trees |
Small |
Operation -
New sewage
treatment building; |
Operation -
Presence of new
sewage treatment plant and associated access/parking areas -
Absence of 4 no.
existing trees -
Approximate
area: 0.089 ha. -
Baseline area:
40.3 ha., 13 no. existing trees |
Small |
||
LR5 |
Domestic Amenity Tree &
Shrub Planting |
Construction - None |
Construction - None |
None |
Operation - None |
Operation - None |
None |
||
LR6 |
Amenity Grass Areas |
Construction None |
Construction None |
None |
Operation None |
Operation - None |
None |
||
LR7 |
Artificial Ponds |
Construction None |
Construction None |
None |
Operation None |
Operation - None |
None |
||
LCA1 |
Coastal Upland and Hillside
Landscape |
Construction -
Site clearance
works at the sewage treatment plant involving the removal of existing trees
& vegetation; -
Slope and site
excavation works at sewage treatment plant; -
Excavation of
trenches along gravity sewers and rising mains alignment; -
Dust and
construction debris; -
Construction of
on-site offices and working areas; -
Temporary
construction plant, platforms, structures, construction machinery and
construction vehicle traffic. |
Construction -
Loss of 4 no.
existing trees -
Impacts to
approximate area of 0.089 ha. -
Baseline area:
61.4 ha., 13 no. existing trees |
Small |
Operation -
New sewage
treatment building; |
Operation -
Presence of new
sewage treatment plant and associated access/parking areas -
Absence of 4 no.
existing trees -
Approximate
area: 0.089 ha. -
Baseline area:
61.4 ha., 13 no. existing trees |
Small |
||
LCA2 |
Bay Landscape |
Construction -
Barge,
construction of cofferdam for dredging pit, dredging works at location of
submarine sewage outfall. |
Construction -
Temporary loss
of approximately 0.12 ha of coastal waters -
Baseline area:
73.6 ha. -
Increased marine
traffic/presence of dredging barges |
Small |
Operation -
None |
Operation -
None |
None |
||
LCA3 |
Intertidal Bay Landscape |
Construction -
None |
Construction -
None |
None |
Operation -
None |
Operation -
None |
None |
||
LCA4 |
Coastal Village Landscape |
Construction -
Excavation of
trenches along gravity sewers and rising mains alignment; -
Haulage off-site
of excavated materials; -
Stockpiling of
materials for construction of pipe trenches and sewage treatment plant; -
Dust and
construction debris; -
Presence of
temporary construction plant, platforms, structures, construction machinery
and construction vehicle traffic at drilling site for submarine outfall; |
Construction -
Temporary
occupation of approximately 0.32 ha by construction operations -
Loss of 22 no.
existing living trees -
Baseline area:
5.8 ha, 23 no. existing living trees |
Small |
Operation -
Gravity sewers
and rising mains trench covers |
Operation -
Presence of
gravity sewers and rising mains trench covers – 0.06 ha -
Presence of
disturbed foreshore – 0.075ha -
Absence of 22
no. existing trees -
Baseline area:
5.8 ha., 23 no. existing living trees |
Small |
||
LCA5 |
Golf Course Landscape |
Construction -
None |
Construction -
None |
None |
Operation -
None |
Operation -
None |
None |
* Assumptions have been
made due to lack of detailed design information at this stage
10.6.4
Landscape
& Visual Mitigation Measures
Review of Planning Principles and Architectural Design
Table 10-6: Proposed
Construction Phase Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures
ID No. |
Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measure |
Landscape measure |
Visual measure |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
CM1 |
The construction area and contractor’s temporary works areas should be
minimised to avoid impacts on adjacent landscape. All slope excavation shall take place from
within the work boundary to minimise impacts on adjacent slopes. |
✓ |
✓ |
DSD |
Contractor |
CM2 |
Reduction of construction
period to practical minimum. |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Contractor |
CM3 |
Construction traffic (land and
sea) including construction plant, construction vessels and barges should be
kept to a practical minimum. |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Contractor |
CM4 |
Erection of decorative mesh
screens or construction hoardings and/or temporary noise barriers around
works areas in visually unobtrusive colours. |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Contractor |
CM5 |
Avoidance of excessive height and bulk of site buildings and
structures. |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Design Engineer |
CM6 |
Control of night-time lighting
by hooding all lights and through minimisation of night working periods. |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Contractor |
CM7 |
All existing trees shall be carefully protected during construction. A
Detailed Tree Protection Specification shall be provided in the Contract
Specification. Under this specification, the Contractor shall be required to
submit, for approval, a detailed working method statement for the protection
of trees prior to undertaking any works adjacent to all retained trees,
including trees in contractor’s works areas. Tree risk assessment
shall be undertaken to all existing trees within the project site as per “Guidelines
for Tree Risk Assessment and Management Arrangement”. |
✓ |
|
DSD |
Contractor |
CM8 |
Protective
materials to be provided to natural rocky coastline to prevent damage to
existing landform from plant and machinery during temporary drilling
operations. Reinstatement following
removal of plant & equipment to original or improved condition shall be
undertaken. |
✓ |
|
DSD |
Contractor |
Table 10-7: Proposed
Operation Phase Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures
ID No. |
Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measure |
Landscape
Measure |
Visual
Measure |
Funding
Agency |
Implementation
Agency |
Management
Agency |
Maintenance
Agency |
OM1 |
Sensitive design of sewage treatment plant in terms of scale, height and
bulk (visual weight) to integrate the building into the existing topography. |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Design Architect/ |
DSD |
Building Operator |
Engineer |
|||||||
OM2 |
Use of appropriate building materials and colours for sewage treatment
plant to complement surroundings* |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Design Architect/ |
DSD |
Building Operator |
Engineer |
|||||||
OM3 |
Lighting units to be directional and minimise unnecessary light spill
and glare. |
|
✓ |
DSD |
Design Architect/ |
DSD |
Building Operator |
Engineer |
|||||||
OM4 |
Greening measures to reinstate the landscape which are appropriate to
the context, including tree and shrub planting and vertical greening, shall
be implemented. |
✓ |
✓ |
DSD |
Contractor |
DSD |
Building Operator |
OM5 |
Compensatory tree planting for all felled trees shall be provided to
the satisfaction of relevant Government departments. Required numbers and locations of
compensatory trees shall be determined and agreed separately with Government
during the Tree Felling Application process under the relevant technical
circulars. Tree risk assessment shall be undertaken to all existing trees
within the project site as per “Guidelines for Tree Risk Assessment and
Management Arrangement”. |
✓ |
✓ |
DSD |
Contractor |
DSD |
DSD/Building Operator |
Planting at Sewage Treatment Plant |
|
|
DSD |
Contractor |
DSD |
DSD |
|
Planting at temporary drilling site for Submarine Outfall |
|
|
|
|
|
|
* Appropriate building materials
and colours include use of non-reflective finishes such as textured render for the building and
recessive colours that blend with the natural tones of the landscape backdrop
(refer to Figure
10.14 for preliminary design intent).
Programme of Implementation of Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures
10.6.5
Prediction of Significance of Landscape
Impacts
Construction Phase before Mitigation
Landscape
Resources
Landscape
Character Areas
Construction Phase After Mitigation
Landscape Resources
Landscape Character Areas
Operation Phase before Mitigation
Landscape
Resources
Landscape
Character Areas
Operation Phase after Mitigation
Landscape Resources
Table 10-8:
Significance of Landscape Impacts in Construction and Operation Phases
(Adverse Impacts unless otherwise stated)
Id.
No. |
Landscape
Resource / Landscape
Character |
Sensitivity
to Change during Construction and Operation Phases (Low,
Medium, High) |
Magnitude
of Change before Mitigation (None, Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) |
Impact
Significance Threshold BEFORE Mitigation
(None, Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) |
Recommended
Mitigation Measures |
Residual
Impact Significance Threshold AFTER Mitigation (None, Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) |
||||||||||
Construction |
Operation |
|||||||||||||||
Construction |
Operation |
Construction |
Operation |
DAY
1 |
YEAR
10 |
|||||||||||
Landscape
Resources |
||||||||||||||||
LR1 |
Coastal Waters |
Medium |
Small |
None |
Moderate |
None |
CM1 |
Moderate |
None |
None |
||||||
LR2 |
Streams |
Medium |
None |
None |
None |
None |
N/A |
None |
None |
None |
||||||
LR3 |
Natural Rocky Coastline |
Medium |
Small |
Small |
Moderate |
Slight |
CM1,7 & 8 OM5 |
Moderate |
Insubstantial |
None |
||||||
LR4 |
Natural Coastal Upland Vegetation |
High |
Small |
Small |
Slight |
Slight |
CM1 & 7 OM4 & 5 |
Slight |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
||||||
LR5 |
Domestic Amenity Tree & Shrub
Planting |
Low |
None |
None |
None |
None |
N/A |
None |
None |
None |
||||||
LR6 |
Amenity Grass Areas |
Low |
None |
None |
None |
None |
N/A |
None |
None |
None |
||||||
LR7 |
Artificial Ponds |
Low |
None |
None |
None |
None |
N/A |
None |
None |
None |
||||||
Landscape
Character Areas |
||||||||||||||||
LCA1 |
Coastal
Upland & Hillside Landscape |
High |
Small |
Small |
Moderate |
Moderate |
CM1 & 7 OM4 & 5 |
Moderate |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
||||||
LCA2 |
Bay
Landscape |
High |
Small |
None |
Moderate |
None |
CM1 |
Moderate |
None |
None |
||||||
LCA3 |
Intertidal
Bay Landscape |
High |
None |
None |
None |
None |
N/A |
None |
None |
None |
||||||
LCA4 |
Coastal
Village Landscape |
Medium |
Small |
Small |
Slight |
Slight |
CM1,7 & 8 |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
||||||
LCA5 |
Golf
Course Landscape |
Low |
None |
None |
None |
None |
N/A |
None |
None |
None |
||||||
10.7.1
Potential
Sources of Visual Impacts
The sources of visual impacts of the Project during construction and operation phases have been described in Section 10.6.1.
10.7.2
Visual Change Before Mitigation in the
Construction and Operation Phase
The magnitude of visual change resulting from the construction and operation phases of the Proposed Project is presented in Table 10-9 and is summarised for the VSRs below.
10.7.3
Proposed Landscape and Visual Mitigation
Measures
The proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures for impacts from the construction and operation phases are described previously in Table 10-6 and Table 10-7, together with the associated funding, implementation, management and maintenance agencies and the proposed implementation programme.
10.7.4
Photomontage Viewpoints
· P1 - Viewpoint from Po Toi O Chuen Road looking south: this viewpoint was selected as representative of views from residents at Po Toi O (RES-1) and drivers and passengers, (VSR T-2) as it provides direct views of the sewage treatment plant. The viewpoint is located on Po Toi O Chuen Road north of the sewage treatment plant at an elevation of approximately 10 mPD.
· P2 - Viewpoint from Tai Au Mun Road looking east: this viewpoint was selected as representative of views from drivers and passengers, (VSR T-1a) as it provides elevated direct views across Po Toi O of the sewage treatment plant. The viewpoint is located on Tai Au Mun Road west of the sewage treatment plant at an elevation of approximately 60 mPD.
· P3 - Viewpoint from Tin Ha Shan looking east: this viewpoint was selected as representative of views from hikers at Tin Ha Shan (REC-1) as it provides elevated direct views across Po Toi O of the sewage treatment plant. The viewpoint is located on the upper eastern slopes of Tin Ha Shan on the public hiking trail at an elevation of approximately 220 mPD.
· P4 – Viewpoint from Clear Water Bay Country Park Visitor Centre: this viewpoint was selected as representative of views from visitors to Clear Water Bay Country Park Visitor Centre (REC-3) and it provides elevated direct views south across Clear Water Bay towards Po Toi O. The dredging activities for the submarine outfall will be temporarily visible from this viewpoint during construction. The viewpoint is located on the southern slopes of Tai Hang Tun within the Country Park facilities at an elevation of approximately 105 mPD.
·
P5 – Viewpoint
from Clear Water Bay Second Beach Looking South East: this viewpoint was
selected as representative of views from users of the swimming beaches on the
western side of Clear Water Bay (REC-9) and provides low level views south east
across the bay towards the location of the Submarine Outfall. The viewpoint is located towards the northern
end of the Second Beach close to sea level.
Table 10-9:
Magnitude of Visual Change during the Construction and Operation Phases
before Mitigation
VSR
ID |
Key
VSR |
Compatibility
of the Project with the Visual Backdrop (High/Medium/Low) |
Duration
and Frequency of Impacts (Temporary/Permanent & Intermittent/Continuous) |
Scale of Development (Large/Medium/Small) & Reversibility of Change
(Yes/No) |
Degree
of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact
(Full, Partial, Obscured) & Distance Between VSR & Nearest
Source(s) of Impact |
Potential
Blockage of Existing View (Full/Partial/Slight/Negligible) |
Magnitude
of Visual Change BEFORE Mitigation |
||||
Construction |
Operation |
Construction |
Operation |
Construction |
Operation |
Construction |
Operation |
||||
Residential
VSRs |
|||||||||||
RES-1 |
Residents of Po Toi O Village |
Medium |
Permanent, Continuous |
Permanent, Continuous |
Small, No |
Partial,
250m |
Partial,
250m |
Partial |
Negligible |
Small |
Small |
RES-2 |
Residents of Tai Wong Kung |
Medium |
Permanent, Continuous |
Permanent,
Continuous |
Small, No |
Partial,
500m |
Partial,
500m |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Small |
Small |
RES-3 |
Residents of Cala d’Or |
Medium |
Permanent, Continuous |
Permanent,
Continuous |
Small, No |
Partial,
600m |
Partial,
600m |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Small |
Small |
RES-4 |
Residents of Fairway Vista |
Medium |
Permanent, Continuous |
Permanent,
Continuous |
Small, No |
Partial,
50m |
N/A |
Slight |
None |
Intermediate |
Small |
RES-5 |
Residents at Tai Au Mun |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full,
2000m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Recreational
VSRs |
|||||||||||
REC-1 |
Hikers on Tin Ha Shan |
Medium |
Permanent, Continuous |
Permanent, Continuous |
Small, No |
Partial,
700m |
Partial,
700m |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Small |
Small |
REC-2 |
Players on Clear Water Bay Golf Course |
Medium |
Permanent, Continuous |
Permanent,
Continuous |
Small, No |
Partial,
500m |
Partial,
500m |
Slight |
Slight |
Small |
Small |
REC-3 |
Visitors to Clear Water Bay Country Park Visitor
Centre |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full
, 1300m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
Negligible |
REC-4 |
Hikers on Tai Leng Tung |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full
, 2000m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
Negligible |
REC-5 |
Recreational Craft in Clearwater Bay |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full
, 25m |
N/A |
Partial |
None |
Intermediate |
Negligible |
REC-6 |
Visitors to Seafood Restaurants in Po Toi O |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Partial,
500m |
N/A |
Partial |
None |
Small |
Negligible |
REC-7 |
Hikers at High Junk Peak |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full,
2500m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
Negligible |
REC-8 |
Users of Clear Water Bay First Beach |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full,
1600m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
Negligible |
REC-9 |
Users of Clear Water Bay Second Beach |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full,
1500m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
None |
Travelling
VSRs |
|||||||||||
T-1a |
Drivers & Passengers along Tai Au Mun Road |
Medium |
Permanent, Continuous |
Permanent, Intermittent |
Small, No |
Full,
500m |
Full,
500m |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Small |
Small |
T-1b |
Drivers & Passengers along Tai Au Mun Road |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full,
1000m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
None |
T-2 |
Drivers & Passengers along Po Toi O Chuen Road |
Medium |
Permanent, Intermittent |
Permanent, Intermittent |
Small, No |
Full,
~5m |
Full,
5m |
Partial |
Partial |
Large |
Large |
T-3 |
Drivers & Passengers along Clear Water Bay Road
to Tai Hang Tau |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full,
1700m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Occupational
VSRs |
|||||||||||
O-1 |
Fishermen in Po Toi O |
Medium |
Permanent, Intermittent |
Permanent, Intermittent |
Small, No |
Partial,
25m |
Partial,
25m |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Small |
Small |
O-2 |
Workers/Staff at
Clear Water Bay Country Park Visitor Centre |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
N/A |
Small, Yes |
Full,
1300m |
N/A |
Negligible |
None |
Negligible |
Negligible |
O-3 |
Workers in Seafood Restaurants in Po Toi O |
Medium |
Temporary, Intermittent |
Temporary |
Small, Yes |
Partial,
600 |
Partial,
600 |
Partial |
Partial |
Small |
Negligible |
Note: |
|||||||||||
(1) The closest viewing distance has been used to
rate the worst case scenario (2) ‘Permanent’
duration measurement refers to entire construction/operation phase |
10.7.5
Prediction of Significance of Visual Impacts
An assessment of the significance of the potential visual impacts during the construction and operation phases, before and after mitigation, is briefly described, and listed in detail in Table 10-10 (All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated). This follows the methodology outlined in Section 10.4 above and assumes that the appropriate mitigation measures identified in Table 10-6 and Table 10-7 would be implemented, and that the full effect of the soft landscape mitigation measures would be realised after 10 years.
10.7.6
Impacts during the Construction and Operation
Phase before and after Mitigation
Residential VSRs
Recreational VSRs
Travelling VSRs
Occupational VSRs
10.7.7
Residual Impacts during the Construction
Phase after Mitigation
Although implementation of the recommended mitigation measures should slightly reduce the magnitude of the residual visual impacts during the construction phase, this will not be sufficient to reduce the overall significance thresholds described above for the before mitigation scenario.
10.7.8
Residual Impacts during the Operation Phase
after Mitigation
Table 10-10:
Significance of Visual Impacts in the Construction and Operation Phases
VSR Type & ID. |
Key Visually Sensitive
Receiver (VSR) |
Magnitude of Visual Change before Mitigation (None, Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) |
Receptor Sensitivity &
Number (Low, Medium, High)
(Very Few, Few, Many, Very Many) |
Impact Significance
Threshold BEFORE Mitigation (None, Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) |
Recommended Mitigation
Measures |
Residual Impact
Significance Threshold AFTER Mitigation (None, Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) |
|||||
Construction |
Operation |
||||||||||
Construction |
Operation |
Construction |
Operation |
Construction |
Operation |
DAY 1 |
YEAR 10 |
||||
Residential
VSRs |
|||||||||||
RES-1 |
Residents in Po Toi O
Village |
Small |
Small |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Moderate |
Moderate |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Moderate |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
RES-2 |
Residents at Tai Wong
Kung |
Small |
Small |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Moderate |
Moderate |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Moderate |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
RES-3 |
Residents of Cala d’Or |
Small |
Small |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Moderate |
Moderate |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Moderate |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
RES-4 |
Residents of Fairway
Vista |
Intermediate |
Small |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Moderate |
Slight |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Moderate |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
RES-5 |
Residents at Tai Au Mun |
Negligible |
Negligible |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Recreational VSRs |
|||||||||||
REC-1 |
Hikers on Tin Ha Shan |
Small |
Small |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Moderate |
Moderate |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Moderate |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
REC-2 |
Players in Clear Water
Bay Golf Course |
Small |
Small |
Medium, Few |
Medium, Few |
Slight |
Slight |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
REC-3 |
Visitors to Clear Water
Bay Country Park Visitor Centre |
Negligible |
Negligible |
High, Many |
High, Many |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
REC-4 |
Hikers on Tai Leng Tung |
Negligible |
Negligible |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
CM1- 6 |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
REC-5 |
Recreational Craft in
Clear Water Bay |
Intermediate |
Negligible |
High, Many |
High, Many |
Moderate |
Insubstantial |
CM1- 6 |
Moderate |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
REC-6 |
Visitors to Seafood
Restaurants in Po Toi O |
Small |
Negligible |
Medium, Many |
Medium, Many |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
CM1- 6 OM1- 6 |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
REC-7 |
Hikers at Junk Peak |
Negligible |
Negligible |
High, Few |
High, Few |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
CM1- 6 |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
REC-8 |
Users of Clear Water Bay
First Beach |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Medium, Many |
Medium, Many |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
CM1- 6 |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
REC9 |
Users of Clear Water Bay
Second Beach |
Negligible |
None |
High, Many |
High, Many |
Insubstantial |
None |
CM1- 6 |
Insubstantial |
None |
None |
Travelling
VSRs |
|||||||||||
T-1a |
Drivers/Passengers along
Tai Au Mun Road |
Small |
Small |
Medium, Many |
Medium, Many |
Slight |
Slight |
CM1- 6 OM1-6 |
Slight |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
T-1b |
Drivers/Passengers along
Tai Au Mun Road |
Negligible |
None |
Medium, Many |
Medium, Many |
Insubstantial |
None |
CM1- 6 |
Insubstantial |
None |
None |
T-2 |
Drivers Passengers along
Po Toi O Chuen Road |
Large |
Large |
Medium, Many |
Medium, Many |
Substantial |
Substantial |
CM1-6 OM1-6 |
Substantial |
Moderate |
Slight |
T-3 |
Drivers/Passengers along
Clear Water Bay Road to Tai Hang Tun |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Medium, Many |
Medium, Many |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
CM1-6 OM1-6 |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Occupational
VSRs |
|||||||||||
O-1 |
Fishermen in Po Toi O |
Small |
Small |
Low, Few |
Low, Few |
Slight |
Slight |
CM1-6 OM1-6 |
Slight |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
O-2 |
Workers/Staff at Clear
Water Bay Country Park Visitor Centre |
Negligible |
Negligible |
Low, Few |
Low, Few |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
CM1-6 OM1-6 |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
O-3 |
Workers in Seafood
Restaurants in Po Toi O |
Small |
Negligible |
Low, Few |
Low, Few |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
CM1-6 OM1-6 |
Slight |
Insubstantial |
Insubstantial |
10.8.1 There are two planned projects within the Study Area described in Section 10.3.3, namely:
10.8.2
There is no definite programme for the above
project works and in the absence of information it is therefore assumed that
they will not be carried out concurrently with the Project. Consequently there are no cumulative
landscape and visual impacts that need to be taken into account in this
assessment.
10.9
Environmental Monitoring and Audit
Monitoring of Design, Construction and Establishment Works
Design of Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures
Site Supervision of Landscape Works
Monitoring
of Landscape Mitigation
Measures