TABLE OF CONTENTS

12........... Landscape and Visual Impacts. 12-1

12.1........ Introduction. 12-1

12.2........ Environmental Legislation, Standards and Assessment Criteria. 12-1

12.3........ Assessment Methodology. 12-2

12.4........ Review of the Planning and Development Control Framework. 12-5

12.5........ Baseline Condition. 12-6

12.6........ Landscape Impact Assessment 12-13

12.7........ Visual Impact Assessment 12-17

12.8........ Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures. 12-23

12.9........ Residual Impacts. 12-31

12.10...... Cumulative Impacts. 12-32

12.11...... Environmental Monitoring and Audit 12-32

12.12...... Conclusion. 12-32

LIST OF TABLES

Table 12.1 Elevation of Proposed Features

Table 12.2 Relationship between Landscape Sensitivity and Impact Magnitude in Defining Impact Significance

Table 12.3 Baseline Landscape Resources and their Sensitivity

Table 12.4 Baseline Landscape Character Areas and their Sensitivity

Table 12.5 Representative Visually Sensitive Receivers in the Vicinity of the Site

Table 12.6 Magnitude of Landscape Change on LRs & LCAs

Table 12.7 Magnitude of Visual Change

Table 12.8 Proposed Mitigation Measures for Construction Phase

Table 12.9 Proposed Mitigation Measures for Operation Phase

Table 12.10 Significance of Landscape Impact on LRs & LCAs

Table 12.11 Significance Thresholds of Visual Impacts

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 12.1 Landscape Impact Assessment Area

Figure 12.2 Review of Planning & Development Control Framework

Figure 12.3 Location of Landscape Resource

Figure 12.4 Location of Landscape Character Area

Figure 12.5 Photographic Records for LRs & LCAs

Figure 12.6 Visual Envelope & Visually Sensitive Receivers

Figure 12.7 Photomontage of VP1

Figure 12.8 Photomontage of VP2

Figure 12.9 Photomontage of VP3

Figure 12.10 Photomontage of VP4

Figure 12.11 Photomontage of VP5

Figure 12.12 Landscape & Visual Mitigation Plan (Sheet 1 of 2)

Figure 12.13 Landscape & Visual Mitigation Plan (Sheet 2 of 2)

12 Landscape and Visual Impacts

12.1 Introduction

12.1.1.1 This section identifies and assesses the potential landscape and visual impacts arising from the proposed Project. Based on the impact identified, landscape and visual mitigation measures are proposed to alleviate any potential adverse impact.

12.1.1.2 Landscape and visual impacts assessment are assessed in accordance with the criteria and guidelines as stated in Annexes 10, 11 and 18 of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) and the EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010 on “Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance”, as well as the requirements given in Clause 3.4.12 and Appendix J of the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-319/2020).

12.1.1.3 The assessment area for landscape impact assessment shall include areas within a 100 m distance from the site boundary of the Project and any other areas likely to be impacted by the Project. The assessment area for the visual impact assessment shall be defined by the visual envelope of the Project. The assessment area and the visual envelope are shown in Figure 12.1 and Figure 12.6 respectively.

12.1.1.4 The site location and the details of the Project are described in Section 2. Finish level and top level of proposed structures for enhancement of public open spaces are provided in below Table 12.1.

Table 12.1 Elevation of Proposed Features

Feature	Elevation of Finished Level (mPD)	Elevation of Top Level (mPD)
Decked Platform	+27.9 to +24.8*	+30.9 to +27.8
Covered Walkway between Kwei Tei Street and Sui Wo Road	+27.9 to +19.1*	+30.9 to +22.1
Community Box	+26.9	+29.9
Covered Walkway between Sui Wo Road and Shan Mei Street	+16.5 to +7.8*	+19.5 to + 10.8
Green Tunnel (Near Sui Wo Road)	+16.7	+19.7
Green Tunnel (Near Fo Tan Village)	+7.7	+10.7
Viewing Decks (Near Shan Mei Street)	+5.6	-
Viewing Deck (at River Mouth)	+4.6	-

Note: *Elevation Ranges are shown from upstream to downstream

12.2 Environmental Legislation, Standards and Assessment Criteria

12.2.1.1 Legislation and standards that are relevant to the consideration of landscape and visual impacts under this assessment include the following:

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

· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance Guidance Note No. 8/2010;

· Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131);

· Country Park Ordinance (Cap 208);

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

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

· Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapters 4, 10 and 11;

· Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department Nature Conservation Practice Note No. 2 - Measurement of Diameter at Breast Height (DBH);

· DEVB TC(W) No. 6/2015 - Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features;

· DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020 - Tree Preservation;

· DEVB TC(W) No. 5/2020 – Registration and Preservation of Old and Valuable Trees;

· ETWB TC(W) No. 5/2005 - Protection of Natural Streams/Rivers from Adverse Impacts Arising from Construction Works;

· Geotechnical Engineering Office Publication No. 1/2011 – Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment and Bioengineering for Man-Made Slopes and Retaining Walls;

· Guidelines on Tree Transplanting (September 2014) issued by Greening, Landscape and Tree Management (GLTM) Section of Development Bureau (DEVB);

· Guidelines on Tree Preservation during Development (April 2015) issued by GLTM Section of DevB; and

· Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong.

12.2.1.2 The Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) gazetted under the Town Planning Ordinance provides the statutory framework for land use development. Reference has been made to the draft Sha Tin OZP No. S/ST/35 (gazetted on 3 December 2021).

12.3 Assessment Methodology

12.3.1 Landscape Impact Assessment Methodology

12.3.1.1 The methodology for the landscape impact assessment during the construction and operational phases shall include the followings.

12.3.1.2 Identification of the landscape resources (LRs) and landscape character areas (LCAs) that would be potentially affected by the Project. This is achieved by site visits and desktop study of topographical maps, information databases and photographs.

12.3.1.3 Assessment of the sensitivity of the LRs and LCAs identified. This is influenced by a number of factors including whether the resource / character is common or rare, whether it is considered to be of local, regional, national or global importance, whether there are any statutory or regulatory limitations / requirements relating to the resource, the quality of the resource / character, the maturity of the resource and the ability of the resource / character to accommodate change. The sensitivity of each LR and LCA is classified as follows:

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

12.3.1.4 Identification of potential sources of landscape changes. These are the various elements of the construction works and operation procedures that would generate landscape impacts.

12.3.1.5 Identification of the magnitude of landscape change. The magnitude of change on LR and LCA is classified as follows:

Large:	The landscape character or landscape resource would incur a major change.
Intermediate:	The landscape character or landscape resource would incur a moderate change.
Small:	The landscape or landscape resource would incur slight or barely perceptible change.
Negligible:	The landscape or landscape resource would incur no discernible change.

12.3.1.6 Recommendation of landscape mitigation measures. These may take the form of adopting basic engineering design to prevent and/or minimise adverse landscape impacts before adopting other mitigation or compensatory measures to alleviate the impacts. Potential mitigation measures shall also include the preservation of vegetation and natural landscape resources, transplanting trees in good condition and value, provision of screen planting, re-vegetation of disturbed lands, compensatory planting, woodland restoration, aesthetic design of aboveground structures including provision of finishes, colour scheme, texture of materials used and any measures to mitigate the impact on the existing and planned land use and visually sensitive receivers (VSRs).  A programme for the mitigation measures is provided. The agencies responsible for the funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the mitigation measures are identified. 

12.3.1.7 Prediction of the significance of residue landscape impacts with mitigation measures. By synthesizing the magnitude of the various impacts and the sensitivity of the various landscape resources, it is possible to categorise impacts in a logical, well-reasoned and consistent fashion. The following Table 12.2 shows the rationale in assessing the potential significances of landscape impacts.

Table 12.2 Relationship between Landscape Sensitivity and Impact Magnitude in Defining Impact Significance

Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial	Substantial
	Intermediate	Slight / Moderate	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial
	Small	Insubstantial / Slight	Slight / Moderate	Moderate
	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
		Low	Medium	High
		Sensitivity of Landscape Character Area and Resource
Note: All impacts are Adverse unless otherwise noted with Beneficial.

12.3.1.8 The significant thresholds of landscape impacts are categorised as follows:

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.

12.3.1.9 Prediction of Acceptability of Impacts. An overall assessment of the acceptability, or otherwise, of the impacts according to the five criteria set out in Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM.

12.3.2 Visual Impact Assessment Methodology

12.3.2.1 Reference is made to EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010 - Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance. The methodology for visual impact assessment during the construction and operational phases shall include the followings.

12.3.2.2 Identification of the Visual Envelope during the construction and operational phases of the Project. This is achieved by site visit and desktop study of topographic maps, photographs and preparation of cross-sections to determine visibility of the Project from various locations. Size, distance and other factors will be considered, to determine the visual envelope of the Project. The visual envelope is expected to cover the fields of views from sensitive viewers in direct sight of the proposed development; usually defined by natural ridgeline, man-made features, or road infrastructure, etc.

12.3.2.3 Identification of the VSRs within the Visual Envelope at construction and operational phases. These are the people who would reside within, work within, play within, or travel through, the visual envelope that would be potentially affected by the proposed Project site

12.3.2.4 Identification of the viewpoints (VPs) within the Visual Envelope. These VPs are representative view of the adjacent VSRs. The visual impact assessment is prepared based on VSR approach.

12.3.2.5 Assessment of the degree of sensitivity of the VSRs identified. Assessment of the degree of sensitivity of change of the VSRs will take into consideration the following factors: -

· The type of VSRs, which is classified according to whether the person is at home, at work, at play, or travelling. Those who view the change 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 whilst taking part in an outdoor leisure activity may display varying sensitivity depending on the type of leisure activity. Those who view the impact whilst travelling on a public thoroughfare will also display varying sensitivity depending on the speed of travel.

· Estimated number of VSR population. This is expressed in terms of whether there are “many“, “medium” and “few” VSRs in any one category of VSR.

· Other factors which are considered (as required by EIAO GN 8/2010) include the value and quality of existing views, the availability and amenity of alternative views, the duration or frequency of view, and the degree of visibility.

· The sensitivity of VSRs is classifies as follows: -

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.

12.3.2.6 Identification of sources of visual changes. These are the various elements of the construction works and operation that would generate visual changes. Factors affecting the magnitude of changes for assessing visual impacts include:

· compatibility of the Project with the surrounding landscape;

· duration of impacts under construction and operational phases;

· scale of development;

· reversibility of change;

· viewing distance; and

· potential blockage of view.

12.3.2.7 Assessment of the magnitude of visual change experienced by the identified VSRs from proposed Project. The magnitude of visual changes is classified as follows:

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.

12.3.2.8 Recommendation of potential visual mitigation measures. These may take the form of adopting basic engineering design to prevent and/or minimise adverse visual impacts before adopting other mitigation or compensatory measures to alleviate the impacts. Potential mitigation measures shall also include the preservation of vegetation and natural landscape resources, provision of screen planting, re-vegetation of disturbed lands, compensatory planting, woodland restoration, aesthetic design of aboveground structures including provision of finishes, colour scheme, texture of materials used and any measures to mitigate the impact on the existing and planned land use and VSRs. A programme for the mitigation measures is provided. The agencies responsible for the funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the mitigation measures are identified.

12.3.2.9 Prediction of the significance of visual impacts before and after the implementation of the mitigation measures. By synthesizing the magnitude of the various visual impacts and the sensitivity of the VSRs, and the numbers of VSRs that are affected, it is possible to categorise the degree of significance of the impacts in a logical, well-reasoned and consistent fashion. The following Table 12.2 shows the rationale in assessing the potential significances of visual impacts.

Table 12.2 Relationship between Visual Receptor Sensitivity and Magnitude of Change in Defining Impact Significance

Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial	Substantial
	Intermediate	Slight / Moderate	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial
	Small	Insubstantial / Slight	Slight / Moderate	Moderate
	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
		Low	Medium	High
		Sensitivity of VSRs
Note: All impacts are Adverse unless otherwise noted with Beneficial.

· The significance of visual impacts is categorised as follows:

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

12.3.2.10 Prediction of Acceptability of Impacts. An overall assessment of the acceptability, or otherwise, of the impacts according to the five criteria set out in Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM.

12.4 Review of the Planning and Development Control Framework

12.4.1.1 The boundary of the Project site falls within the draft Sha Tin OZP No. S/ST/35 (gazetted on 3 December 2021).

12.4.1.2 Northern part of the Project site is surrounded by woodland in “Green Belt” and characterised by village houses and newly residential development of Chun Yeung Estate. The middle part is occupied by industrial buildings with minimal greenery and sitting-out areas. While various government/institution/community land use, MTR station and comprehensive development area can be found in the southern part of proposed Project site. Fo Tan Nullah passes through the whole Project site which connects Shing Mun River to the east.

12.4.1.3 The whole Project falls within the Sha Tin OZP. In accordance with the OZP, majority of the proposed works is located within the channel, which generally falls within the “Shing Mun River Channel” on the Sha Tin OZP. Proposed works outside of the channel fall within various other zones, such as “Green Belt”, “Government, Institution or Community” (G/IC), “Industrial”, “Residential” and “Village Type Development ” zones. The review of land use zones overlaid on the Project boundary is shown in Figure 12.2.

12.4.1.4 The review of OZP has not only included a review of the plans, but also the ‘Notes’ and “Explanatory Statements’ which accompany these plans. According to the notes of OZP, drainage works, road works and such other public works coordinated or implemented by the government are always permitted on land falling within the boundaries of the OZP.

12.4.1.5 The Revitalisation works introduce higher quality of landscape within the Project site. The proposed Project would fit in with the current and future planning settings and would not conflict with the statutory town plan. Therefore, planning permission form the Town Planning Board is not required.

12.5 Baseline Condition

12.5.1 General

12.5.1.1 Identification of the baseline landscape resources (LRs), landscape character areas (LCAs) and visually sensitive receivers (VSRs) within the Assessment Area was achieved by a desk-top study of topographical maps, information databases and aerial photographs, as well as undertaking site visits and broad brush tree survey at the Project site.

12.5.1.2 The assessment area for the landscape impact assessment shall include areas within 100m from the site boundary as stipulated in the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-319/2019). The visual envelope of the visual impact assessment is defined by hillside of Wo Sheung Tun at northwest; industrial area along two sides of upper section of nullah, Shing Mun River which connects to the south-east end of nullah; and high-rise residential estates across the other side of Shing Mun River. Within the visual envelope, primary zone of visual influence is further delineated mainly by the building blocks in the vicinity of the Project. The assessment area and the visual envelope are shown in Figure 12.1 and Figure 12.6 respectively.

12.5.2 Broad Brush Tree Survey

12.5.2.1 A broad-brush tree and vegetation survey was carried out in accordance with the Appendix J of the EIA Study Brief to identify dominant tree species, maturity, rarity and any plant species of conservation interest, etc. which would be potentially affected to provide baseline information on the LRs and LCAs.

12.5.2.2 Within the Project boundary, it is estimated that approximately 173 nos. of existing trees are surveyed, where are located along two sides of the Fo Tan Nullah. The tree species recorded are mostly common species in Hong Kong, including but not limited to Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. Cumingiana, Ficus religiosa, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa etc. There are 33 species identified, their height ranges from 2.5m to 22m, crown spread from 1.5m to 16m, and DBH from 100mm to 949mm. They are generally poor - average in form; and average in health & structural condition; and low - medium in amenity value.

12.5.2.3 No Old and Valuable Tree (OVT) or Tree of Particular Interest (TPI) is identified within survey boundary. While 11 nos. of Lagerstroemia speciosa (大花紫薇) and 7 nos. of Magnolia grandiflora (荷花玉蘭) which are listed under Cap.96 were identified within survey boundary, the surveyed Lagerstroemia species (i.e. Lagerstroemia speciosa) and Magnoliaceae species (i.e. Magnolia grandiflora) are not considered as TPIs in this report as they are widely planted as ornamental trees in Hong Kong for amenity purpose. They were also identified with poor – average form and health, and average in structural condition.

12.5.2.4 Amongst the 173 nos. of surveyed trees, 133 nos. are proposed to be retained including a mature tree - Ficus microcarpa (T369) with DBH up to 949mm. A total of 25 nos. of trees are proposed to be removed, all of which are common species and considered not suitable for transplanting (due to low amenity value, poor / irrecoverable health and form etc.) including Acacia confusa, Bauhinia variegata, Bischofia javanica, Ficus virens, Morus alba with heights range from 1.5-18m, DBH from 100-650mm and crown size from 1.5-12, or are considered as undesirable species, i.e. Leucaena leucocephala; and a total of 15 nos. of trees are proposed to be transplanted, species including Bauhinia variegate, Bischofia javanica, Lagerstroemia speciosa and Magnolia grandiflora with height ranges from 4-10m, crown size from 1.5-5m and DBH from 100-380mm.

12.5.3 Landscape Resources (LRs)

12.5.3.1 There are seven existing Landscape Resources (LR) identified within the 100m assessment area as detailed in Table 12.3 and illustrated in Figure 12.3. No OVTs or rare and protected species identified within 100m assessment boundary.

Table 12.3 Baseline Landscape Resources and their Sensitivity

ID	Description	Sensitivity
LR1	Watercourse of Shing Mun River Channel and Fo Tan Nullah The watercourse of Fo Tan Nullah connects Shing Mun River Channel at southeast. The whole watercourse is artificial with concrete nullah bed exposed and no plantation is found. Total 4 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LR1. This LR is medium in rarity and low in regional importance within Sha Tin District. As there are limited vegetation in this LR, it is considered to be low in landscape quality, with a high ability to accommodate change due to its artificial structure which can easily be replaced.	low
LR2	Natural Watercourse A few natural watercourses are identified at the upstream of Fo Tan Nullah within 100m assessment area. LR2 is commonly found in hillside habitat with common stream-side vegetation, which is identified as medium in rarity, landscape quality and regional importance. However, as they have relatively high-level of naturalness with limited disturbance to its setting, hence, low ability to accommodate changes.	high
LR3	Waterside Landscape Amenity along Fo Tan Nullah A row of street trees Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. Cumingiana is found along the southwestern pathway along the upper channel of Fo Tan Nullah for amenity purposes. The section gradually becomes highly urbanised with minimal vegetation near the end with village area and industrial buildings. Lower channel of Fo Tan Nullah has more roadside planting along both sides of the pathways compared to middle channel. In particular, a mature tree, Ficus microcarpa (T369) with DBH 949mm, is identified at the southeastern end of the Fo Tan Nullah within this LR and is proposed to be retained. Trees such as Celtis sinensis and Ficus microcarpa with dense canopy and branches approaching the channel bank were recorded. They are mostly common species in Hong Kong. According to the Tree Survey findings, total 131 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LR3. Among them, 11 nos. of Lagerstroemia speciosa listed under Cap.96. are found. This LR is identified as low in rarity and regional importance; medium in landscape quality. It has high ability to accommodate changes, e.g. replaced by compensatory trees or via transplanting.	medium
LR4	Kwei Tei Street Garden This LR is located near the upstream section of Fo Tan Nullah. With the new housing development at Chun Yeung Estate, Kwei Tei Street Garden provides a green communal space with pavilion for the residents to enjoy various leisure activities and its landscape quality is medium. Total 7 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LR4, they are all Magnolia grandiflora listed under Cap.96. This LR is very common in local context that it is of low rarity and local importance, with medium ability to accommodate change.	medium
LR5	Other Parks/ Gardens along Fo Tan Nullah Parks are found along the nullah, which includes Shan Mei Street Playground, Shan Mei Street Basketball Court, Shan Mei Street Sitting-out Area, Shan Mei Street Children’s Playground and Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3; they are easily accessible which lie close to the nullah. Their landscape quality is medium, mostly fringed with ornamental trees and amenity planting e.g. Bombax ceiba and Livistona chinensis, provided with shade and landscape value for the public. Total 17 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LR5. Sitting-out area and playground are very common in local context that it is of low rarity and local importance, with medium ability to accommodate change.	medium
LR6	Hillside Vegetation Hillside vegetation is located at the upstream of Fo Tan Nullah and on the slopes near Fo Tan Village to the west. Total 15 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LR6. It is a common habitat in Hong Kong with medium rarity and regional importance. This LR is rich in vegetation and dominated by mostly native species, it is therefore identified as high in landscape quality, with low ability to accommodate changes.	high
LR7	Landscape Amenity within Build-up Areas This LR consists of high-rise residential estates, including Chun Yeung Estate, The Palazzo Tower and institutions including Jockey Club Ti-I College and Hong Kong Sports Institute, have relatively large amount of greenery in compared to the Fo Tan industrial area. They are mostly amenity planting of trees and shrubs, which act as a visual buffer of the areas. This LR is of medium landscape quality, low in rarity and local importance; with reasonably high tolerance to changes.	medium

12.5.4 Landscape Character Areas (LCAs)

12.5.4.1 There are three landscape character areas (LCAs) identified within the 100m assessment area as detailed in Table 12.4 and illustrated in Figure 12.4.

Table 12.4 Baseline Landscape Character Areas and their Sensitivity

ID	Description	Sensitivity
LCA1	Settled Valley Landscape This LCA is the settled valley landscape of Fo Tai. With the backdrop of dense woodland in the middle valley, the villages are located at the lower valley including Fo Tan Kuk San Tsuen and Kwai Tei New Village. Newly developed high-rise residential development of Chun Yeung Estate can be found at the periphery of the lower valley. According to the Tree Survey findings, total 22 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LCA1. Among them, 7 nos. of Magnolia grandiflora listed under Cap.96. are found. LCA1 is considered to be medium in rarity and local importance, with high landscape quality and medium ability to accommodate changes.	medium
LCA2	Miscellaneous Urban Fringe Landscape The LCA consists of mixed land uses: institutional, transport, and recreational. Institutions in this LCA include Sha Tin Fire Station, Hong Kong Sports Institute, and the Jockey Club Ti-I College. Transport land use refers to the Fo Tan MTR Station, while recreational facility refers to the Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3. Total 95 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LCA2. Among them, 3 nos. of Lagerstroemia speciosa listed under Cap.96. are found. LCA2 is considered to be low in rarity and local importance, with medium landscape quality and high ability to accommodate changes.	medium
LCA3	Industrial Urban Landscape The LCA features tall industrial buildings constructed side by side in a dense arrangement. There are some residential zones, including a low-density residential zone at Fo Tan Village, and the Comprehensive Development Area (CDA) at Au Pui Wan Street. The roads are with little to no vegetation. Total 57 nos. of surveyed trees are located within LCA3 along Fo Tan Nullah. Among them, 8 nos. of Lagerstroemia speciosa listed under Cap.96. are found. LCA3 is considered to be low in rarity and local importance, with low landscape quality and high ability to accommodate changes.	low

12.5.5 Baseline Condition and Primary Zone of Visual Influence

12.5.5.1 The visual envelope of the visual impact assessment is defined by hillside of Wo Sheung Tun at north-west; industrial area along two sides of upper section of nullah, Shing Mun River which connects to the south-east end of nullah; and high-rise residential estates across the other side of Shing Mun River. Within the visual envelope, primary zone of visual influence is further delineated mainly by the industrial and residential building blocks in the vicinity of the Project (Figure 12.6 refers).

Visual Resource

12.5.5.2 The visual resources of the site include the hillside of Wo Sheung Tun at the northwest side which further connects to country park area, as well as vegetation in foothill side. Another major visual resource is the view towards Shing Mun River Channel at southeast. The area and distribution of visual resources are shown in Figure 12.6.

12.5.6 Identification of Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

12.5.6.1 Eighteen (18) representative VSRs adjacent to proposed Project site are identified for estimation of potential visual impacts. The selected VSRs are further grouped into six types which are commercial (C), government/ institutional/ community (G), industrial (I), residential (R), recreational (REC) and travelling (T). The identified VSRs are listed in Table 12.5 and their location are shown in Figure 12.6.

Commercial (2 Nos.)

12.5.6.2 The commercial VSRs represents the users of Shatin Galleria (C1) and Fo Tan Railway House (C2). Both VSRs are located at medium to high-rise commercial buildings with one facade directly facing the nullah with the lush greenery of Wo Sheung Tun as backdrop, which enjoy a fair view and will be visually impacted. The quality of existing view is good with hillside greenery of Wo Sheung Tun as backdrop and alternative view available. In view of these VSRs is having occasional frequency of view towards the nullah and posse medium to large nos. of individuals. Their sensitivity is considered as medium.

Government/ Institutional/ Community VSRs (4 Nos.)

12.5.6.3 The government/ institutional/ community VSRs represents the users of Hong Kong Sports Institute (G1); staff of Sha Tin Fire Station (G2); teacher and students of Jockey Club Ti-I College Dormitory (G3); and visitors to Tao Heung Museum for Food Culture (G4). These VSRs are all low-rise buildings. G1 and G3 has more open view to the nullah while G2 and G4 have relatively limited views toward the nullah. In view of VSRs G1 and G3 are having occasional frequency of view towards the nullah and posse medium to large nos. of individuals. Their sensitivity is considered as medium. Whilst G2 and G4 with a rare frequency of view toward the nullah and an average of fair quality of existing view, they are considered to have a low sensitivity toward the proposed development.

Industrial VSR (1 No.)

12.5.6.4 The industrial VSR (I1) refer to the workers in the industrial area along Fo Tan Road, which are mostly medium-rise buildings of around 15 – 20 storey and possess medium nos. of individuals. As the workers can perceive the nullah as the predominant view with an occasional frequency of view, therefore its sensitivity is considered as medium.

Residential VSRs (5 Nos.)

12.5.6.5 The residential VSRs comprise the residents along the northern and southern sides of Fo Tan Nullah. The Palazzo Tower (R1) is a high-rise residential estate located beside Sha Tin Road. Only partial views towards the nullah is available due to blockage of highway structures of Fo Tan Road and Sha Tin Road. In view of their glimpse degree of visibility toward the nullah and fair quality of existing view, its sensitivity is considered as low.

12.5.6.6 R2 represents residents living in Fo Tan Village, which are mostly low-rise village houses of less than 5 storey. Therefore, only houses in the front row could enjoy the view of nullah, which is partially blocked by existing fences. Similarly, in view of their glimpse visibility toward the nullah due to low building height, their sensitivity toward the nullah is considered as low.

12.5.6.7 R3 refers to residents who live in Chun Yeung Estate, which is a high-rise public housing estate located at the north-end of the nullah. Only units at higher floor could enjoy open view of the nullah as industrial area is adjacent to the estate across Kwei Tei Street. Owing to the public housing estate possesses many individuals with a frequent view and partial to full visibility toward the nullah, hence sensitivity of R3 is considered as medium.

12.5.6.8 R4 refers to residents who live in Yuk Wo Court, which is a public housing development located at the north of the nullah. This residential VSR enjoys an overview of the nullah with the adjacent low-rise village houses and the lush greenery as backdrop. R5 refers to the planned residential development under construction (The Arles) along the eastern embankment of Fo Tan Nullah. This residential VSR shares similar view with R4, residential units at higher levels enjoy an overview of the nullah and the adjacent multi-storey village houses with lush greenery as backdrop; whilst for the residents at lower levels, their view on nullah will be partially blocked by the noise barrier. In view of both VSRs possess many individuals with a high frequency of view and partial to full visibility toward the nullah for most of the residents. Therefore, their sensitivity are considered as medium.

Recreational VSRs (3 Nos.)

12.5.6.9 Three recreational VSRs are identified which represent users in Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3 (REC1), Shan Mei Street Children’s Playground (REC2) and Kwei Tei Street Garden (REC3). The existing views enjoyed by REC1 is relatively open with a wide-open sky view as backdrop. The quality of view is good. In view of that it possesses medium nos. of individuals, therefore its sensitivity is considered as medium. Whilst, for REC 2 and 3, their views toward the nullah is screened by fences or vehicular road, which the development work is less likely to be impacting their current view. As both REC 2 and 3 have a few nos. of individuals, hence their sensitivity is considered as low.

Travelling VSRs (3 Nos.)

12.5.6.10 The remaining type of VSR refers to travellers who commute along Sha Tin Road, Lok King Street & Fo Tan Road (T1); on MTR (T2); and along Fo Tan Nullah (T3). T1 and T3 may include visitors or tourists who spend time along the watercourse with longer duration of staying while T2 represents mainly passengers on MTR with only a passing glance towards the proposed Project area. In view of the rare frequency of view toward the nullah, T2’s sensitivity toward the proposed development is considered as low. Whilst, for T1 and T3, as they are enjoying a comparatively full visibility toward the nullah, their sensitivity toward the proposed development is considered as medium.

Table 12.5 Representative Visually Sensitive Receivers in the Vicinity of the Site

ID	VSR Description	No. of Individuals (Few/ Medium/ Many)	Quality of Existing View (Poor/ Fair/ Good)	Availability of Alternative Views (Yes / No)	Degree of Visibility (Glimpse/ Partial/ Full)	Frequency of View (Frequent/ Occasional/ Rare)	Sensitivity to Change (High/ Medium/ Low)
Commercial (C)
C1	Shatin Galleria	Medium	Fair	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Medium
C2	Fo Tan Railway House	Medium	Fair	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Medium
Government/ Institutional/ Community (G)
G1	Hong Kong Sports Institute	Medium	Fair	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Medium
G2	Sha Tin Fire Station	Medium	Fair	Yes	Partial	Rare	Low
G3	Jockey Club Ti-I College Dormitory	Many	Good	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Medium
G4	Tao Heung Museum for Food Culture	Medium	Fair	Yes	Glimpse	Rare	Low
Industrial (I)
I1	Industrial Development along Fo Tan Road	Medium	Fair	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Medium
Residential (R)
R1	The Palazzo Tower	Many	Fair	Yes	Glimpse	Frequent	Low
R2	Fo Tan Village	Medium	Fair	Yes	Glimpse	Frequent	Low
R3	Chun Yeung Estate	Many	Fair	Yes	Full/ Partial	Frequent	Medium
R4	Yuk Wo Court	Many	Fair	Yes	Full	Frequent	Medium
R5	Planned residential development under construction (The Arles)	Many	Fair	Yes	Full/ Partial	Frequent	Medium
Recreational (REC)
REC1	Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3	Medium	Good	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Medium
REC2	Shan Mei Street Children’s Playground	Few	Good	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Low
REC3	Kwei Tei Street Garden	Few	Good	Yes	Full/ Partial	Occasional	Low
Travelling (T)
T1	Travelers along Sha Tin Road, Lok King Street & Fo Tan Road	Medium	Fair	Yes	Full/ Partial	Rare	Medium
T2	Travelers on MTR	Many	Fair	Yes	Partial	Rare	Low
T3	Travelers along Fo Tan Nullah	Medium	Fair	Yes	Full	Rare	Medium

12.6 Landscape Impact Assessment

12.6.1 Potential Sources of Landscape Impacts

Construction Phase

12.6.1.1 The proposed channel modification and construction of dry weather flow interceptor (DWFI) system and mid-stream water pumps for ecological enhance associated water supplement will be constructed inside the existing Fo Tan Nullah, while some proposed architectural structures for enhancement of public open space will be constructed at the roadside.

12.6.1.2 During the construction phase, potential adverse impacts would arise from:

· Potential tree removal;

· Ground-breaking and excavation;

· Final re-surfacing to channel bed;

· Construction of underground water storage tank and reinstatement of Kwei Tei Street Garden;

· Construction of architectural structures, including but not limited to viewing deck/ platform, footbridge, pavilion & benches, new sitting-out area, railing, stepped terrace and vehicular access etc;

· Construction of hard and soft landscape, including but not limited to hard paving and new thematic Planting.

Operational Phase

12.6.1.3 During the operational phase, similar to the existing practices, regular maintenance works for the drainage and sewerage systems along FTN such as regular clearance and repair of damages to the nullah bed and embankment would be carried out by the DSD. Operation of the re-instated open space, architectural structures and recreational facilities would constitute potential sources of landscape changes.

12.6.2 Magnitude of Landscape Changes

Unmitigated Impacts on LRs – Construction Phase

12.6.2.1 Magnitude of unmitigated landscape change to LRs are summarised in Table 12.6 while the significance of unmitigated landscape impact on LRs are illustrated in Table 12.10.

12.6.2.2 No construction works will be conducted within LR2, LR5, LR6 and LR7. No adverse landscape impacts on these LRs are expected during construction phase.

12.6.2.3 The construction works for the Project will lead to temporary adverse landscape impacts to the LR1 and LR3. Subject to actual condition, certain loss of existing vegetation is predicted to occur in these LRs. The impacts will be reversible by thematic planting during implementation of soft landscape works.

12.6.2.4 The whole LR1 will be affected by excavation works, construction of proposed structures as stated in Section 12.6.1, and the approximate affected area would be around 23,000m². LR1 will be partially reinstated by hard paving. 3 out of 4 nos. of the surveyed trees within this LR would be affected by proposed works, which are proposed to be removed. Considering the temporary and reversible works in medium scale, also the low sensitivity and high ability to accommodate changes of LR1, it is considered to experience “intermediate” magnitude of change and “moderate” impact significance during construction phase.

12.6.2.5 LR3 will be partly affected by construction works that extend to the side of nullah, such as proposed deck/ platform, pavilions / shelters and gathering points, and also a few trees would be affected. They will be reinstated, or even enhanced by later new plantings. It is estimated that its affected area is approximately 23,000m2. Among 131 nos. of surveyed trees within this LR, a mature tree, Ficus microcarpa (T369) with DBH 949mm is identified at the southeastern end of the nullah right abutting the skating Park of Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No. 3, which is proposed to be retained. In addition, 22 nos. of the identified trees would be affected by proposed works, which are proposed to be removed. Whilst, 10 nos. of identified trees would be affected by proposed works, which are proposed to be transplanted. Considering the temporary and reversible works in medium scale, also the medium sensitivity and high ability to accommodate changes of LR3, it is considered to experience “intermediate” magnitude of change and “moderate” impact significance during construction phase.

12.6.2.6 LR4 Kwei Tei Street Garden will be temporarily closed during the construction phase for excavation and construction of the underground water storage tank. Existing trees at LR4 will be unavoidably affected by tree felling or transplanting. It is estimated that its affected area is approximately 1,340 m². 5 out of 7 nos. of the surveyed trees within this LR would be affected by proposed works, which are proposed to be transplanted. Considering the temporary and reversible works affecting the whole LR, also the medium sensitivity and medium ability to accommodate changes of LR4, it is considered to experience “large” magnitude of change and “substantial” impact significance during construction phase.

Unmitigated Impacts on LRs – Operation Phase

12.6.2.7 As there will be no built structure within LR2, LR5, LR6 and LR7, no landscape impacts arising from the Project are expected during operation.

12.6.2.8 As stated in Section 12.6.1.3, only minor maintenance works would be carried out during operational phase. As the re-surfacing of channel bed and the architectural structures are permanent in nature, therefore both LR1 and LR3 are considered to experience “small” magnitude of change and “slight” impact significance during operational phase. For LR4, the affected open space will be re-instated after the construction works, hence the magnitude of change is considered as “small” and impact significance is “slight” during operational phase.

Unmitigated Impacts on LCAs – Construction Phase

12.6.2.9 Potential landscape impact to LCAs during both construction and operational phase have been assessed with identification of their sensitivity and magnitude of change due to proposed Project. Magnitude of landscape change to LCAs are summarised in Table 12.6 while the significance of unmitigated landscape impact on LCAs are illustrated in Table 12.10.

12.6.2.10 During construction phase, all LCAs will be affected by the proposed Project. For LCA1, mainly excavation and construction works of the underground water storage tank at the existing Kwei Tei Street Garden will be undertaken in this area, which vegetation settled in hillside will not be disturbed. Among 22 nos. of surveyed trees within this LCA, 5 nos. would be affected by proposed works, which are proposed to be transplanted. Considering the temporary and reversible works in small scale compared to the whole LCA, with approximate affected area of about 2,700m2; the medium sensitivity and medium ability to accommodate changes of LCA1, it is considered to experience “small” magnitude of change and “slight” impact significance during construction phase.

12.6.2.11 Large portion of the proposed construction works would take place in LCA3, with approximately affected area of 14,000m². Most of the proposed construction works, including excavation, modification of channel bed, construction of architectural structures such as viewing deck, pavilion & benches, shelters & gathering points and thematic planting will be undertaken in this area. Among 57 nos. of surveyed trees within this LCA, 18 nos. of trees would be affected by proposed works, 9 of which are proposed to be removed and the remaining 9 nos. of trees are proposed to be transplanted. Considering the temporary and reversible works in medium scale, also the low sensitivity of LCA3, it is considered to experience “intermediate” magnitude of change and “moderate” impact significance during construction phase.

12.6.2.12 The south-end part of proposed Project is overlapped to LCA2, which affected area is about 17,000m². Mainly desilting works at downstream tidal zone, greening works along the riverbed and repainting of existing flood walls will be undertaken in this area. Among 95 nos. of surveyed trees within this LCA, 17 nos. of trees would be affected by proposed works, 16 of which are proposed to be removed and 1 no. is proposed to be transplanted. Due to its high accommodation to change and medium sensitivity, LCA2 is considered to experience “intermediate” magnitude of change and “moderate” impact significance during construction phase.

Unmitigated Impacts on LCAs – Operation Phase

12.6.2.13 As stated in Section 12.6.1.3, only minor maintenance works would be carried out during operational phase. As the re-surfacing of channel bed, re-provision of open space and architectural structures are permanent in nature and therefore, three LCAs are considered to experience “small” magnitude of change and “slight” impact significance during operational phase.

Table 12.6 Magnitude of Landscape Change on LRs & LCAs

ID	Description	Approximate Area affected by the Project (m^2)	Compatibility of Project		Duration of Impacts		Reversibility of Change		Magnitude of Change
			C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#
Landscape Resource (LRs)
LR1	Watercourse of Shing Mun River Channel and Fo Tan Nullah	23,000	Fair	High	Temporary/	Permanent	Reversible	Irreversible	Intermediate	Small
LR2	Natural Watercourse	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
LR3	Waterside Landscape Amenity along Fo Tan Nullah	9,300	Fair	High	Temporary/	Permanent	Reversible	Irreversible	Intermediate	Small
LR4	Kwei Tei Street Garden	1,340	Low	High	Temporary/	Permanent	Reversible	Irreversible	Large	Small
LR5	Other Parks/ Gardens along Fo Tan Nullah	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
LR6	Hillside Vegetation	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
LR7	Landscape Amenity within Build-up Area	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
Landscape Character Areas (LCAs)
LCA1	Settled Valley Landscape	2,700	Fair	High	Temporary	Permanent	Reversible	Irreversible	Small	Small
LCA2	Miscellaneous Urban Fringe Landscape	17,000	Fair	Negligible	Temporary	Permanent	Reversible	Irreversible	Intermediate	Small
LCA3	Industrial Urban Landscape	14,000	Fair	Fair	Temporary	Permanent	Reversible	Irreversible	Intermediate	Small

Note: # - “C”=Construction Phase; “O”=Operational Phase

12.7 Visual Impact Assessment

12.7.1 Potential Source of Visual Impacts

Construction Phase

12.7.1.1 The proposed channel modification and construction of DWFI system and mid-stream water pump for ecological enhance associated water supplement will be constructed inside the existing Fo Tan Nullah, while some proposed architectural structures for enhancement of public open space will be constructed at the roadside which may impose visual impact to adjacent VSRs.

12.7.1.2 During the construction phase, potential adverse visual impacts would arise from:

· Potential tree removal;

· Ground-breaking and excavation;

· Final re-surfacing to channel bed;

· Construction of underground water storage tank and reinstatement of Kwei Tei Street Garden;

· Construction of architectural structures, including but not limited to viewing deck/ platform, footbridge, pavilion & benches, new sitting-out area, railing, stepped terrace and vehicular access, etc.;

· Construction of hard and soft landscape, including but not limited to hard paving and new thematic Planting.

· Construction of temporary structures including screen hoarding, temporary site office, storage areas or temporary works.

12.7.1.3 Additional source of night-time lighting which may affect adjacent VSRs close to proposed Project. As the proposed revitalisation works cover the whole nullah, construction of all above-ground structures and soft landscape works will be the main visual impact to VSRs.

Operational Phase

12.7.1.4 During the operational phase, only minor maintenance works such as regular clearance and repair of damages to the nullah bed and embankment would be undertaken. Potential visual impacts would also arise from operation of the architectural structures and recreational facilities.

12.7.2 Recommended Vantage Points for Photomontage

12.7.2.1 Key vantage points were selected based on the representative VSRs to further analyse the visual impact of the Project. Photomontage is prepared to demonstrate potential visual impact raised from the proposed Project. The photomontage illustrates the proposed revitalization of Fo Tan Nullah under the following scenarios:

· Existing baseline condition;

· The unmitigated visual impacts at operation day 1 of the proposed Project;

· The partially mitigated visual impacts after implementation of the proposed mitigation measures at operational day 1; and

· The completed works with mitigation after 10 years.

12.7.2.2 A total 5 nos. of vantage points are identified, including VP1 – Shan Mei Street Playground; VP2 – Kwei Tei Street Garden; VP3 – Lok King Street Footbridge; VP4 – Yuen Wo Road Overpass and VP5 – Shan Mei Street Sitting-out Area (Figure 12.6 refers).

12.7.3 Magnitude of Visual Impacts

12.7.3.1 Assessment on potential magnitude and significance of visual impacts during construction and operational phases is shown in Table 12.7 and Table 12.11.

C1 - Shatin Galleria & C2 - Fo Tan Railway House

12.7.3.2 Viewers from C1 and C2 are mainly office workers, with occasional duration of views. As there will be no significant obstruction of view and the VSRs are mostly engaged to working activities, considering the medium sensitivity of C1 and C2, the magnitude of change to C1 and C2 are considered to be “small” and the significance of unmitigated impact is “slight” during both construction and operational phases. Photomontage of C1 and C2 are illustrated in VPs 1 and 3 respectively.

G1 - Hong Kong Sports Institute, G2 - Sha Tin Fire Station, G3 - Jockey Club Ti-I College Dormitory & G4 - Tao Heung Museum for Food Culture

12.7.3.3 Viewers from G1, G2, G3 & G4 are various in nature, which are users of facilities, officials of Fire Services Department, teachers & students and visitors to museum respectively. G1 and G3 are engaged in their activities with small open area facing the nullah, which are both considered as medium in sensitivity. Therefore, the magnitude of change by the proposed development to G1 and G3 are considered to be “small” and the significance of unmitigated impact is “slight” during both construction and operational phases. Photomontages of G1 and G3 can be referred to VPs 4 and 3 respectively.

12.7.3.4 On the other hand, viewers from G2 are mainly office workers engaged in working activities. The scale of development is considered as intermediate with the proposed works are found compatible with the surrounding context upon completion. In the light of the above and its low sensitivity, the magnitude of change by the proposed development is considered as “small” and the significance of unmitigated impact is “slight” during both construction and operational phases. the Photomontage of G2 can be referred to VP4.

12.7.3.5 Viewers from G4 are mainly workers and visitors from low rise building, they are mostly engaged in their activities indoor. Regarding the low sensitivity of G4 and the proposed work will have negligible blockage to their existing view, the magnitude of change to G4 are considered to be “negligible” and therefore the corresponding significance of unmitigated impact is “insignificant” during both construction and operational phases. Photomontages of G4 are illustrated in photomontages VP5.

I1 - Industrial Development along Fo Tan Road

12.7.3.6 Viewers from I1 are mainly workers from medium-rise industrial buildings along Fo Tan Road during working hour. Given that the sensitivity of I1 is considered as medium, and there will be no significant obstruction of view, therefore the magnitude of change to I1 is considered to be “small” and the significance of unmitigated impact is “slight” during both construction and operational phases. Photomontages of I1 are illustrated in photomontages VPs 1 and 5 respectively.

R1 - The Palazzo Tower, R2 - Fo Tan Village, R3 - Chun Yeung Estate, R4 – Yuk Wo Court & R5 – Planned residential development under construction (The Arles)

12.7.3.7 Viewers from R1, R2 & R3 are residents who lives in the Palazzo Tower, Fo Tan Village & Chun Yeung Estate. With regard to the low sensitivity of R1 and R2, the intermediate scale of development will have negligible blockage to their existing view; whilst for R3, although this VSR is considered with medium sensitivity, in view of the proposed work will cause negligible blockage to their existing view and the work will be highly compatible to the surrounding visual context upon completion, the magnitude of change to R1, R2 & R2 are considered to be “small” and the significance of impact is “slight” operational phase during both construction and operational phases. Photomontages of R1, R2 and R3 can be referred to VPs 3, 5 and 2 respectively.

12.7.3.8 Viewers from R4 and R5 are residents or potential residents who live in Yuk Wo Court and Arles. Given that the sensitivity of R4 and R5 are considered as medium; and in view of the proposed development will have negligible blockage to the existing view, viewers from R4 and R5 will find the proposed development highly compatible with the surrounding visual context upon completion, the magnitude of change to R4 and R5 are considered to be “small” and the significance of unmitigated impact is “slight” during both construction and operational phases. Photomontages of R4 and R5 are illustrated in VP 5.

REC1 - Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3, REC2 - Shan Mei Street Children’s Playground & REC3 - Kwei Tei Street Garden

12.7.3.9 Viewers from REC1-3 are users of garden and playground, these VSRs are adjacent to proposed Project with relatively open views towards Fo Tan Nullah. In the light of the medium and low sensitivity of REC1 and REC2 respectively, both VSRs have considerable existing vegetation which provides well-visual buffer and screening effects for viewers, and therefore the magnitude of change to REC1 and REC2 are considered to be “small” and the significance of impact is “slight” during both construction and operational phases. Photomontages of REC 1 and 2 are illustrated in VPs 4 and 5 respectively.

12.7.3.10 On the other hand, REC3 - the Kwei Tei Street Garden will be demolished due to construction of underground water storage tank and re-built afterwards. Though the sensitivity of REC3 is considered as low, regarding the scale of works imposing in this VSR, the magnitude of change to REC3 is considered to be “large” and the significance of impact is “moderate” during construction; the magnitude of change to be “small” and the significance of impact is “slight” during operational phase. Photomontages of REC3 is detailed in VP2.

T1 - Travelers along Sha Tin Road, Lok King Street & Fo Tan Road, T2 - Travelers on MTR & T3 - Travelers along Fo Tan Nullah

12.7.3.11 Travelers from T1 and T3 are mainly visitors or passer-by, while T2 represents travellers on MTR. In view of the transient nature of VSRs, there will be negligible visual blockage by proposed development in T2’s view. Similarly for T1 and T3, viewers from T1 refers to travellers along Shatin Road across the nullah with medium sensitivity and viewers from T3 are travellers along Fo Tan Road with medium sensitivity. Regarding the intermediate scale of work, the proposed development at nullah unlikely to poses any potential visual blockage to their existing view and the proposed development reads compatible with its adjacent context upon completion. Therefore with the magnitude of change to T1 & T3 are considered to be “small” and the significance of impact is “slight” during both construction and operational phases. With consideration of low sensitivity of T2, the magnitude of change to T2 is considered to be “negligible” and the significance of impact is “insubstantial” during both construction and operational phases. Photomontage of T1, T2 are illustrated in VP3; for T3 is illustrated in VP1.

Table 12.7 Magnitude of Visual Change

ID	VSR Description	Sensitivity (High/ Medium/ Low)	Viewing Distance (m)	Compatibility of the Project (High/ Medium/ Low)	Duration of Impacts		Scale of Works	Reversibility of Change (Yes/ No)		Potential Blockage of View by Development (Full/ Partial/ Negligible)	Magnitude of Change		Significance of unmitigated impact
					C*	O*		C*	O*		C*	O*	C*	O*
Commercial (C)
C1	Shatin Galleria	Medium	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
C2	Fo Tan Railway House	Medium	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
Government/ Institutional/ Community (G)
G1	Hong Kong Sports Institute	Medium	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
G2	Sha Tin Fire Station	Low	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
G3	Jockey Club Ti-I College Dormitory	Medium	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
G4	Tao Heung Museum for Food Culture	Low	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Industrial (I)
I1	Industrial Development along Fo Tan Road	Medium	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
Residential (R)
R1	The Palazzo Tower	Low	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
R2	Fo Tan Village	Low	Adjacent	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
R3	Chun Yeung Estate	Medium	150	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
R4	Yuk Wo Court	Medium	50 - 60	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
R5	Planned residential development under construction (The Arles)	Medium	30 - 40	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
Recreational (REC)
REC1	Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3	Medium	Adjacent	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
REC2	Shan Mei Street Children’s Playground	Low	Adjacent	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
REC3	Kwei Tei Street Garden	Low	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Large	Small	Moderate	Slight
T1	Travelers along Sha Tin Road, Lok King Street & Fo Tan Road	Medium	Adjacent	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight
T2	Travelers on MTR	Low	10 - 20	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
T3	Travelers along Fo Tan Nullah	Medium	Adjacent	High	Temporary	Permanent	Intermediate	Yes	No	Negligible	Small	Small	Slight	Slight

12.8 Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

12.8.1.1 In the light of the potential landscape and visual impacts arising from proposed Project in previous sections, numerous of mitigation measures are proposed to alleviate the effects during construction and operational phases. They are summarised in Table 12.8 and Table 12.9. The landscape and visual mitigation plan are provided in Figure 12.12 and Figure 12.13.

Table 12.8 Proposed Mitigation Measures for Construction Phase

ID	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures	Funding Agency	Implementation Agency
CM1	Tree Preservation during Construction All existing trees to be retained shall be carefully protected during construction. Tree protection works shall be in accordance with DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020 - Tree Preservation and Tree Management Practice Note No. 1 – Tree Preservation during Construction.	DSD / LCSD	DSD / LCSD / Contractor
CM2	Erection of Decorative Screen Hoarding Decorative Hoarding, which is compatible with the surrounding settings, shall be erected during construction to minimise the potential landscape and visual impacts due to the construction works and activities.	DSD	DSD / Contractor
CM3	Control of Night-time Lighting Glare Any lighting provision of the construction works at night shall be carefully controlled to prevent light overspill to the nearby VSRs and into the sky.	DSD	DSD / Contractor
CM4	Management of Construction Activities and Facilities The facilities and activities at works sites and areas, which include site office, temporary storage areas, temporary works etc., shall be carefully managed and controlled on the height, deposition and arrangement to minimise any potential adverse landscape and visual impacts.	DSD	DSD / Contractor
CM5	Reinstatement of Temporarily Disturbed Landscape Areas All hard and soft landscape areas disturbed temporarily during construction due to temporary excavations, temporary works sites and works areas shall be reinstated to equal or better quality, to the satisfaction of the relevant Government Departments.	DSD	DSD / Contractor
CM6	Reinstatement of Temporarily Disturbed Watercourses Temporarily disturbed watercourses shall be reinstated to the satisfaction of relevant Government Departments. Good site practices as described in ETWB TCW No. 5/2005 “Protection of natural streams/rivers from adverse impacts arising from construction works” shall also be adopted to avoid any pollution entering the watercourses nearby where applicable.	DSD	DSD / Contractor

Table 12.9 Proposed Mitigation Measures for Operation Phase

ID	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures	Funding Agency	Implementation Agency
OM1	Greening Enhancement along Channel Bed and Embankment The existing concrete riverbed and embankment will be resurfaced by a layer of vegetation, which will enhance the aesthetic value of the nullah. The riverbed will be planted with various types of riparian and wetland plants, including emergent wetland planting (e.g. reed and other aquatic herbs), mangroves, climbing plants, tree and / or grasscrete; while the river embankment will be covered by various types of climbers or trailing plants along the parapet planters.	DSD	DSD / Contractor Long-term Maintenance Party: DSD
OM2	Provision of Recreational Opportunity along Nullah The provision and improvement of recreational facilities including but not limited to sitting-out areas, thematic planting, play elements, viewing decks, community box, other gathering points, proposed improvement/modification of existing planters etc. along the nullah aim to enhance the ecological, landscape and visual value of the nullah, provide a greener environment, promote water friendliness and improve the community environment.	DSD	DSD / Contractor Long-term Maintenance Party*: DSD / LCSD
OM3	Compensatory Tree Planting Any trees to be felled under the Project shall be compensated in accordance with DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020 - Tree Preservation. A Tree Preservation and Removal Proposal (TPRP) shall be prepared and submitted under the DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020 by Contractor. The compensatory plantings shall be realistic, practicable and sustainable with a holistic consideration to balance the quantity and quality of tree planting and follow the “right tree for the right place” principles. The proposed planting species shall be made reference to the Greening Master Plan issued by CEDD and the Street Tree Selection Guide issued by DEVB. According to latest tree treatment proposal, 25 nos. of trees would be removed due to proposed works, including 15 nos. of undesirable species (i.e. Leucaena leucocephala). As stipulated in DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020, “…the number of compensatory trees onsite and offsite shall not be lower than that of number of trees removed including dead trees, but excluding trees of undesirable species...”, therefore to compensate the loss of existing trees, approximately 10 nos. of heavy standard compensatory trees are proposed in available planting area to enhance the amenity value to vicinity of site, subject to detailed design.	DSD	DSD / Contractor Long-term Maintenance Party*: DSD / LCSD
OM4	Sensitive and Aesthetically Pleasing Design Sensitive and aesthetically pleasing design as regard to the form, material and finishes shall be incorporated to the proposed above-ground structures e.g. pavilions, seating areas, viewing decks, railings along the nullah, re-painting on existing flood walls etc so as to minimise any potential adverse landscape and visual impact.	DSD	DSD / Contractor Long-term Maintenance Party*: DSD / LCSD
OM5	Re-provision of Affected Open Space To re-provide the affected open space of Kwei Tei Street Garden, that is temporarily closed during the construction phase of the Project due to the excavation works of the underground water storage tank, in better quality and design for the enjoyment of the local residents. Both soft and hard landscape proposals shall be provided for LCSD’s agreement.	DSD	DSD / Contractor Long-term Maintenance Party: DSD / LCSD
OM6	Transplanting According to latest tree treatment proposal, 15 nos. of trees that are unavoidably affected by proposed works are suggested to be transplanted where practical. A TPRP will be submitted to relevant government departments for approval in accordance with DEVB TC(W) Nos. 6/2015 and 4/2020 and Guidelines on Tree Transplanting by DEVB and final locations of transplanted trees should be agreed prior to commencement of the work. A cost-effective transplanting strategy should be established at the Design Phase of the Project. Transplanted trees are recommended to be relocated to final locations without the use of Holding Nursery under single handling where possible subject to the sequence of construction of the works. This will minimise the cost and ensure the better survival of the trees after transplanting. However, if single transplanting handling is not possible, the transplanted trees shall be translocated to a holding nursery before the commencement of the engineering works; and will be replanted back to the receptor sites once the engineering works are completed.	DSD	DSD / Contractor Long-term Maintenance Agent*: DSD / LCSD

Note:

*In case of interface issues between DSD (Project Proponent) and LCSD facilities, the arrangement of long-term maintenance/management agencies are subject to agreement of with corresponding departments in accordance with DEVB TCW No. 6/2015.

Table 12.10 Significance of Landscape Impact on LRs & LCAs

ID	Description	Sensitivity	Magnitude of Change BEFORE Mitigation		Impact Significance Threshold BEFORE Mitigation		Recommended Mitigation Measures	Residual Impact Significance Threshold UPON Mitigation
			C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C & O^#	C^#	O^#
									Day 1	Year 10
Landscape Resource (LRs)
LR1	Watercourse of Shing Mun River Channel and Fo Tan Nullah	Low	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Slight	CM2, CM3, CM4, CM6, OM1, OM2 & OM4	Slight	Slight	Insubstantial
LR2	Natural Watercourse	High	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	N/A	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LR3	Waterside Landscape Amenity along Fo Tan Nullah	Medium	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, OM2, OM3 & OM4	Slight	Slight	Insubstantial
LR4	Kwei Tei Street Garden	Medium	Large	Small	Substantial	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, OM2, OM3, OM4, OM5 & OM6	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial
LR5	Other Parks/ Gardens along Fo Tan Nullah	Medium	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	N/A	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LR6	Hillside Vegetation	High	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	N/A	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LR7	Landscape Amenity within Build-up Area	Medium	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	N/A	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Landscape Character Areas (LCAs)
LCA1	Settled Valley Landscape	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 OM4, OM5 & OM6	Slight	Slight	Insubstantial
LCA2	Miscellaneous Urban Fringe Landscape	Medium	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2 & OM4	Slight	Slight	Insubstantial
LCA3	Industrial Urban Landscape	Low	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 & OM4	Slight	Slight	Insubstantial

Note: #: “C” = Construction; “O” = Operation

Table 12.11 Significance Thresholds of Visual Impacts

ID	Description	Represented VP	Sensitivity	Magnitude of Change BEFORE Mitigation		Impact Significance Threshold BEFORE Mitigation		Recommended Mitigation Measures	Residual Impact Significance Threshold UPON Mitigation
				C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C & O ^#	C^#	O^#
										Day 1	Year 10
Commercial (C)
C1	Shatin Galleria	VP1	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1, OM2, OM3 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
C2	Fo Tan Railway House	VP3	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Government/ Institutional/ Community (G)
G1	Hong Kong Sports Institute	VP4	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1, OM2 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
G2	Sha Tin Fire Station	VP4	Low	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1, OM2 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
G3	Jockey Club Ti-I College Dormitory	VP3	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
G4	Tao Heung Museum for Food Culture	VP5	Low	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1 & OM4	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Industrial (I)
I1	Industrial Development along Fo Tan Road	VP1 and VP5	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1, OM2, OM3 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Residential (R)
R1	The Palazzo Tower	VP3	Low	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R2	Fo Tan Village	VP5	Low	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R3	Chun Yeung Estate	VP2	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R4	Yuk Wo Court	VP5	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
R5	Planned residential development under construction (The Arles)	VP5	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Recreational (REC)
REC1	Shing Mun River Promenade Garden No.3	VP4	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1, OM2 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
REC2	Shan Mei Street Children’s Playground	VP5	Low	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
REC3	Kwei Tei Street Garden	VP2	Low	Large	Small	Moderate	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1 & OM4	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial
Travelling (T)
T1	Travelers along Sha Tin Road, Lok King Street & Fo Tan Road	VP3	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
T2	Travelers on MTR	VP3	Low	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
T3	Travelers along Fo Tan Nullah	VP1	Medium	Small	Small	Slight	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, OM1, OM2, OM3 & OM4	Slight	Insubstantial	Insubstantial

Note: #: “C” = Construction; “O” = Operation

12.9 Residual Impacts

12.9.1 Significance of Residual Landscape Impact

12.9.1.1 Assuming proper implementation of mitigation measures for construction and operational phases as stated in Table 12.8 and Table 12.9, the residual impact for LRs and LCAs are discussed as below.

12.9.1.2 During construction phase, CM2 - Erection of Decorative Screen Hoarding, CM3 - Control of Night-time Lighting Glare and CM4 - Management of Construction Activities and Facilities will reduce the landscape impact generated by construction works for LR1, LR3, LR4 and LCA1 – LCA3. CM1 - Tree Preservation during Construction and CM5 - Reinstatement of Temporarily Disturbed Landscape Areas will help to protect trees and landscape area for LR3, LR4 and LCA1 – LCA3. Lastly, CM6 will help to reinstate the disturbed watercourse area for LR1 and LCA1 – LCA3.

12.9.1.3 Overall, after well-implemented mitigation measures, residual landscape impact of LR1, LR3, LCA2 and LCA3 will be reduced from “moderate” to “slight” while LR4 will be reduced from “substantial” to “moderate”. LCA1 will remain as “slight”.

12.9.1.4 During operational phase, OM2 - Provision of Recreational Opportunity along Nullah and OM4 - Sensitive and Aesthetically Pleasing Design would help to enhance the overall aesthetics for LR1, LR3, LR4 and LCA1 – LCA3. While OM1 - Greening Enhancement along Channel Bed and Embankment is applicable to nullah area including LR1 and LCA1 – LCA3. For landscape impacts generated from unavoidable tree removal in LR3, LR4, LCA1 and LCA3, it can be mitigated by OM3 - Compensatory Tree Planting. The affected open space of LR4 and LCA1 can be mitigated by OM5 – Re-provision of Affected Open Space and OM6 – tree transplanting. Overall, residual landscape impacts of LR1, LR3, LR4 and LCA1 - LCA3 will be “slight” at Day 1 and further reduced to “insubstantial” upon Year 10 of operation.

12.9.2 Residual Visual Impact

12.9.2.1 Proposed mitigation measures would reduce/ eliminate the visual impact during construction and operation phase. With proper arrangement of construction activities (CM4) in terms of height, deposition and arrangement; they’re further screened-off by decorative screen hoarding (CM2) designed with compatible appearance with surrounding as well as the screening effect offered by considerable retained trees through tree preservation during construction (CM1). Alongside with night-time lighting control (CM3) in duly concern, these measures go a long way minimizing the visual impact during construction phase towards identified VSRs. During operation phase, pleasing design (OM4) is incorporated to all above-ground structures such that their appearance is visually aesthetical in general public’s perception. Beside hardware, soft landscape design is extensively incorporated along channel bed and embankment (OM1) to maximise greenery coverage. Broad ranges of species (e.g. tree (OM3), shrubs, climbers trailing plants & wetland species) are proposed to enhance aesthetic value of the nullah, covering bulky surface, softening hard edge of structures and offers screening effect to source of visual impact. With well implementation of the above-mentioned hard and soft landscape works, leisure activities could be carried out with adequate provision of recreational opportunity along the Nullah (OM2), such that the revitalised nullah would be transformed to a visually pleasing scenery as part of the view from identified VSRs.

12.9.2.2 Assuming proper implementation of mitigation measures for construction and operational phases as stated in Table 12.8 and Table 12.9, the residual impact for identified VSRs are discussed as below:

12.9.2.3 During construction, the significance of residual impacts for most of the VSRs including C1 – C2, G1 – G3, I1, R1 – R5, REC1 & REC2 and T1 & T3 will be remained at “slight” upon completion of mitigation measures (CM2, CM3 & CM4). For REC3, its significance of residual impacts will be reduced from “substantial” to “moderate” upon completion of CM2, CM3 & CM4.

12.9.2.4 During operation, C1 – C2, G1 – G3, I1, R1 – R5, REC1 & REC2 and T1 & 3 will be reduced to “insubstantial” upon completion of mitigation measures (OM1 & OM4) at Day1 and there will be no more residual impacts at Year 10 of operational phase. And REC3 will be reduced to “slight” upon completion of mitigation measures (OM1 & OM4) at Day1 and be further reduced to “insubstantial” at Year 10.

12.10 Cumulative Impacts

12.10.1.1 Referring to concurrent government projects listed in Section 2.7 of this EIA Report, concurrent development will not cause significant landscape and visual impact during construction and operational phase, unacceptable adverse cumulative impacts are not anticipated.

12.11 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

12.11.1.1 The detailed landscape and engineering design of the Project should incorporate the landscape and visual mitigation measures described in Section 12.8. A specialist landscape sub-contractor should be employed by the Contractor for the construction of the landscape works and subsequent maintenance during establishment period. A detailed tree survey and topographic survey showing the site conditions should be prepared prior to commencement of works. Detailed tree survey should be prepared by an Arborist accredited by the Hong Kong Institute of Landscape Architects or equivalent employed by the Contractor. For proper implementation of the mitigation measures, a Registered Landscape Architect (RLA) should be employed to check the detailed tree survey and to prepare the TPRP.

12.11.1.2 A baseline review should be undertaken at the commencement of the construction contracts to update the status of LRs, LCAs and VSRs and submitted to EPD and PlanD for record.

12.11.1.3 The implementation of the recommended mitigation measures should be regularly audited throughout the construction phase. Details of the environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) requirements are provided in the separate EM&A Manual. As the operation landscape and visual mitigation measures would be provided during the construction phase, no specific EM&A programme is required during operation phase.

12.12 Conclusion

12.12.1.1 During construction phase, the proposed channel modification and construction of DWFI system and mid-stream water pumps for ecological enhancement associated water supplement will be constructed inside the existing Fo Tan Nullah, while some proposed architectural structures will be constructed at the roadside for enhancement of public open space which may impose visual impact to adjacent VSRs. Based on the broad-brush tree survey, amongst the 173 nos. of surveyed trees, 133 nos. are proposed to be retained, including all existing mature trees growing along the nullah banks. A total of 25 nos. of trees are proposed to be removed, all of which are common species including Acacia confusa, Bauhinia variegata, Bischofia javanica, Ficus virens, Melia azedarach and Morus alba, and including 15 nos. of undesirable species, Leucaena leucocephala; and a total of 15 nos. of trees are proposed to be transplanted, species including Bauhinia variegata, Bischofia javanica, Lagerstroemia speciosa and Magnolia grandiflora. As stipulated in DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020, “…the number of compensatory trees onsite and offsite shall not be lower than that of number of trees removed including dead trees, but excluding trees of undesirable species...”, therefore to compensate the loss of existing trees, approximately 10 nos. of heavy standard compensatory trees are proposed in available planting area to enhance the amenity value to vicinity of site. With proper implementation of mitigation measures, all affected LRs and LCAs would have “moderate” to “insignificant” adverse landscape impacts whilst all affected VSRs would have “slight” or “insubstantial” adverse visual impacts except for REC3 which would have “moderate” adverse impacts during construction phase.

12.12.1.2 Fo Tan Nullah will be revitalised with architectural and landscape features aimed at promoting water friendliness and providing an enhanced green and ecological environment. The proposed architectural and landscape features and modified channel bed would be the key sources of visual and landscape changes during operation. With proper implementation of landscape and visual measures, namely greening enhancement along channel bed and embankment, provision of recreational opportunity along nullah, sensitive and aesthetically pleasing design, re-provision of affected open space, all affected VSRs will have “insubstantial” adverse visual impacts except for REC3 which has “slight” adverse impacts at Day 1 of operational phase. All VSRs would have “insubstantial” or even no impact at Year 10 of operational phase. In conclusion, the landscape and visual impacts are considered as acceptable in accordance to Annexes 10, 11 and 18 of the EIAO-TM.