7. LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL CHARACTER ASSESSMENT

7.1 Introduction

Project Description

7.1.1 The element of the proposed works that could have significant landscape or visual impacts is the proposed sewage treatment plant site and sewerage system at Ngong Ping.

Limits of the Study Area

7.1.2 Landscape and visual impact assessment and the associated mitigation works will cover all areas within permanent land take and temporary works areas at the Ngong Ping STW site. The associated effluent pipeline alignment from Ngong Ping to Tai O will mainly be located under the existing Ngong Ping Road and Tai O Road. Landscape and visual impacts would be minimal and is therefore not considered in the assessment.  The limit of study for the assessment of impacts on landscape resources and character is 500m on either side of the limit of the works, as shown on Drawing No. 23400/EN/024.  The assessment for visual impact is defined by the visual envelope (zone of visual influence) which is generally the viewshed formed by natural / man-made features such as ridgeline or building blocks.  The limit of study for the visual impacts studies are the zones of visual influence (ZVI's) of the works during the construction and operation stages.

Assessment Legislation

7.1.3 The evaluation of landscape and visual impacts associated with the construction and operation of the Ngong Ping Sewage Treatment Works and Sewerage has been made in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap 499 S.16) and the Technical Memorandum on EIA Process (EIAO TM), together with the recently issued EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2002 for the Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIA).

7.1.4 The following standards and guidelines are applicable to the evaluation of landscape and visual impacts associated with the construction and operation of the proposed Works:

7.2 Assessment Methodology

7.2.1 Landscape and visual impacts will be assessed separately for the construction, operational (Opening Day) and residual (Year 10) stages. The assessments will take into account existing/planned/approved land uses as baseline conditions, and assess all direct and indirect impacts on existing/planned/approved land uses, and on future outlook of the area. Potential impacts will be identified in terms of being beneficial/adverse, direct/indirect, short term/long term, and reversible/irreversible.

7.2.2 Impacts will be determined in terms of significance thresholds, which are the product of the magnitude of change to baseline conditions due to the proposed works and the sensitivity of resource/character/receivers. In general terms, magnitude of change relates to parameters of the proposed works in the context of baseline conditions, and sensitivity refers to properties of resource/character/receivers:

7.2.3 Where appropriate the cumulative impacts of other development proposals will be considered.

7.2.4 The assessment of landscape impacts will involve the following procedures:

7.2.5 The Table 7.1 indicates a rationale for dividing the degree of significance into four thresholds, namely substantial, moderate, slight and negligible depending on the combination of large-intermediate-small-negligible magnitude of change, and high-medium-low degree of sensitivity.

7.2.6 The inclusion of a 'negligible' magnitude of impact is necessary because a negligible impact is different from a 'small' magnitude of impact. A 'small' magnitude impact will cause a varying degree of resultant impact significance depending on whether the landscape resource's sensitivity is low, medium or high. However, a negligible magnitude of impact will always result in negligible significance, irrespective of the sensitivity of the resource.

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 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 and whether the view is continuous or occasionally glimpsed.

7.2.8 Table 7.1 indicates a rationale for dividing the degree of significance into four thresholds, namely substantial, moderate, slight and negligible depending on the combination of negligible slight-moderate-substantial magnitude of impacts and a low-medium-high degree of sensitivity of VSR's. The inclusion of a 'negligible' magnitude of impact is necessary because a negligible impact is different from a 'small' magnitude of impact. A 'small' magnitude impact will cause a varying degree of resultant impact significance, depending on whether the receptor's sensitivity is low, medium or high. However, a negligible magnitude of impact will always result in negligible impact significance, irrespective of the sensitivity of the VSR.

7.3 Planning and Development Control Framework

7.3.1 The Ngong Ping Development Permission Area Plan No. DPA/I-NP/2 has been replaced by the draft Ngong Ping Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) No. S/I-NP/1, which was exhibited on 12 July 2002 for public inspection for two months (i.e. ending on 12 September 2002). (See Drawing No. 23400/EN/023)

7.3.2 The planning intention of Ngong Ping OZP is to conserve the natural environment, the character of existing developments, and to promote tourist developments. The new OZP will provide a comprehensive land use planning framework within Ngong Ping boundary area. It is noted in the OZP that the proposed STW site falls within an area zoned "Other Specified Use" annotated "Sewage Treatment Plant". This means the proposed STW development in Ngong Ping is permitted under the OZP being there is no objection to the zone.

7.3.3 The study area also falls within the South West New Territories Development Strategy Review (SWNTDSR). The sub-regional study sets out the recommended land use planning and development strategy for Hong Kong S.A.R South West Region to the year 2016.

7.3.4 The planning vision of the SWNTDSR is to strengthen tourist attractions and to develop a 'religious / leisure node' at Ngong Ping aimed at attracting both local and international tourists.
Existing Use and Potential Impacts

7.3.5 The principal land use zonings within Ngong Ping comprise Residential (Group C) "R(C)", Government / Institution or Community "G/IC", Village Type Development "V", Green Belt "GB", Open Spaces "O", Conservation Area "CA", Site of Special Scientific Interest "SSSI", and Undetermined "U".

7.3.6 The existing developments within these zonings include Ngong Ping Village, Po Lin Monastery, Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Tea Farm, bus terminus, and S.G. Davis Youth Hostel.

7.3.7 The proposed STW is bounded by Ngong Ping Road to the south, Ngong Ping Village to the east, and Lantau North Country Park to the north. The proposed development is located within a "GB" zone. The intention of this zone is to identify the limit of development and to enhance the protection of natural landscape amenity. The existing condition of the STW site is mainly abandoned agricultural land with natural grass and shrub vegetation.

7.3.8 The proposed development will affect the natural vegetation and the natural landscape amenity located nearby. The construction and operation of the development, including slope works, would affect the existing and adjacent natural setting. It is therefore appropriate that conservation and protection of natural landscape setting should be considered and applied during construction and operation stage.

7.3.9 The current OZP emphasises that there is a general presumption against development within this zone. Any proposed developments require planning permission from the Town Planning Board under Section 16 of the Town Planning Ordinance. Proposed development will be considered on its individual merits. The current OZP designates the proposed STW site under "Other Specified Use" annotated "Sewage Treatment Plant" zoning on the OZP subject to the acceptance of the EIA by EPD.

Existing Character of Adjacent Areas

7.3.10 The proposed development will mainly surrounded by Conservation Areas and Country Park. These areas are be naturally vegetated and have ecological, landscape and scenic value for both residents and tourists. Construction of the development is likely to affect the existing and adjacent natural setting and alter the landscape character area. Minimising the scale and extent of works, will help to minimise the landscape and visual impacts during the construction and operation stage.

7.3.11 A columbarium is located to the north east of the proposed STW site. Impact on the columbarium and its existing natural environs should be minimised. However, since the columbarium is located far away from the study area and falls outside the boundaries of the Ngong Ping OZP boundaries, no land use impacts are anticipated.

7.3.12 The North Lantau Country Park and Conservation Area located immediately to the north and west of the proposed development respectively, are both areas providing protection of natural landscape beauty. The proposed development would have no direct impact on these areas, but may affect their landscape setting. Mitigation measures undertaken during construction and operation stage should address this.

7.3.13 The Tian Tan Buddha Statue and Po Lin Monastery are located to the south west of the proposed development. They are the dominant structures and have unique heritage and religious value for Hong Kong. The visual setting of these areas is of prime importance and measures should be adopted in the development of the STW to avoid any adverse visual impact.

Planned and Committed Development

7.3.14 The proposed cable car link was recommended under the SWNTDSR. The proposed cable car link aims to connect Tung Chung to Ngong Ping. The Tung Chung Cable Car System is intended to help boost the tourism and to provide tourist facilities at Ngong Ping (e.g. resort-style hotel, scenic trails, folk museum, etc.).

7.3.15 Currently, the proposed cable car terminal is located to the south east of the STW site, and has been identified in the Ngong Ping OZP. The extent of the construction and operation of the cable car link should not have land use impacts to the proposed STW site. However, if the alignment and the terminal of the cable car link is amended to run in closer proximity to the proposed sewage plant, then there is likely to be a visual impact on cable car users, which needs to be addressed in the design of both the Cable Car System and the STW. Currently, a public transport interchange is also proposed to the east of the STW site. Possible land use interface with the proposed public transport interchange should be minimised.

7.3.16 The explanatory notes to OZP has mentioned the proposed treatment plant will be located at the foothills in the western end of the area (where it is currently being proposed).

Landscape Planning Designation

7.3.17 The Ngong Ping OZP has highlighted a number of sites that have a valuable landscape features and ecological diversity. The following sections briefly describe the potential areas for conservation and landscape designation identified under current planning studies.

7.3.18 Most of the Conservation Area and the SSSI are located to the south-western part of Ngong Ping at some distance to the study site.. The planning intention is to protect against disturbance and encroachment by developments.

7.3.19 The Lantau Trails run in an east-west direction within Lantau South Country Park. The trails provide a high quality landscape setting for recreational users, local and international visitors.

7.4 Baseline Conditions

7.4.1 Areas of sensitive landscape within the Study Area (considered to be a 500m area from the proposed STW site) include Ngong Ping village, Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, etc. The proposed STW site is shown on the annotated aerial photograph in figure drawing 23400/EN/078. The principal physical landscape resources within the Study Area comprise :

Topography and Land Form (LR1)

7.4.2 The land forms of Lantau contribute significantly to its identity. Within the Lantau, generally lower slopes are gentle with deep soil layers. These comprise loose material which is the result of landslides and ground slump. This is generally fairly unstable material. Upper slopes are generally steeper and more spectacular, comprising a topography of bare rock outcrop and boulder strewn hillsides resulting in an often dramatic and rugged appearance. The Ridgelines and peaks are particularly significant topographic elements of this landscape adding to its distinctiveness.

7.4.3 The settlement at Ngong Ping lies on a plateau close to the ridgeline at an approximate elevation of 450 mPD. The area is relatively level although rises sharply to the north east towards Nei Lak Shan, and to the south-east towards Lantau Peak. The ground generally falls dramatically in to the south and West.

7.4.4 The Study site lies in a below the local peak of Sze Tsz Tau Shan and the Buddha Statute, at an elevation of approximately 440 mPD. It is generally flat falling slightly to the north. The ground retains some of it's natural profile, although appears to have been modified in the past, possibly by agricultural activity. A pronounced slope lies along the north-eastern side, giving it a slight elevation with relation to the areas immediately to the north and east.

7.4.5 The site (approximately 21,160sq.m) has very few rock outcrops or boulders (probably removed at an earlier date), although the surrounding natural hill slopes are heavily strewn with small weathered rocks and boulders. These help give a distinct wild upland character to the landscape. The sensitivity to change is considered to be high.

Agricultural Soils

7.4.6 Lantau Island consists of what is principally volcanic rock. The upland areas (approximately 276,960sq.m) in which the study site is located are composed of principally undifferentiated volcanic rock of the Repulse Bay formation. In western Lantau, pyroclastic rocks and lava are dominant, and a few of these occur as outcrops around Tung Chung Road. The area to the south of the central Lantau Uplands, lies on coarse tuff.

7.4.7 The site lies on a typically thin layer of colluvium, and has recently been used for agriculture. The exposed location and the general instability of the soils have inhibited the development of vegetation resulting in soils of low fertility. Given their general abundance of such soils, their sensitivity to change is considered to be low.

Woodland Trees (LR3) / Grassland / Shrubland (LR4)

7.4.8 Across Lantau Island generally, the natural vegetation pattern shows a transition from secondary woodland in the lower sheltered valleys through tall and low shrub in more open valleys to grassland in the higher more exposed ridgelines. This pattern represents the natural development of the vegetation, and in time, without human interference, the grassland of the upper hill slopes would succeed to shrub and secondary woodland.

7.4.9 Although the site is generally open characterised by rock and sparse grass (approximately 92,729 sq.m), similar to the surrounding natural hill slopes, there are a number of trees loosely distributed across the site. These comprise fruit trees (Litchi / Longan), and a mixture of exotics (Acacia / Casuarina) and recently established pioneers (Macaranga / Mallotus). They appear to be remnants of former agricultural activities and recent colonisation rather than native shrubs or woodland species.

7.4.10 There are more substantial areas of woodland trees (approximately 21,554 sq.m) to the north and east, again associated with former agricultural land around the Ngong Ping Village. Collectively they provide screening and landscape amenity to the Ngong Ping Area.

7.4.11 Beyond the Ngong Ping settlement the natural hills support some low shrub and open grassland. These are valuable both in ecological and landscape terms but due to their wide spread and rapid establishment have only a low sensitivity to change.

Stream Courses (LR5)

7.4.12 The Ngong Ping area contains a number of seasonal small streams. Although there is only one within the STW site. The streams are shallow and lined intermittently by with riparian shrubs and grasses, and appear to have been modified in many places during cultivation of surrounding areas. They are considered to be of only limited landscape amenity value.

7.4.13 Beyond the STW site the streams on the open hillsides are often precipitous with steep sides and are associated with flora and fauna that, in certain cases, is found nowhere else in Hong Kong. Thus many of these stream courses are of particular value. The smaller less well developed seasonal streams are considered to be of medium sensitivity to change, while the permanent streams supporting the richer floral and faunal communities are considered to be medium sensitive to change.

Cultural and Historic Landscapes

7.4.14 The site may previously been under agricultural production. Some adjacent areas to the north and east show distinct field patterns, although most of the fields are abandoned and have been colonised by vegetation.

7.4.15 The slopes to the south of the Tian Tan Buddha (LR6) and Po Lin Monastery (LR8) contain a large number of graves with prospects to the west and south.

7.4.16 A columbarium (LR7) (place for storage of urns and memorials) containing a large number of graves is located on a woodland near the northern edge of the site. The building is in an informal Chinese style, and is a distinct feature on the hill slopes behind the villages. The site is dependent on the surrounding natural landscape for it's character, and is considered to be highly sensitive to change. It may also have Fung Shui associations.

7.7 Construction Stage Impact Assessment

Potential Sources of Impact during the Construction Stage

7.7.1 The nature and extent of the proposed works associated with the Ngong STW would comprise: -

7.7.2 The proposed works would create varying levels of impacts on the physical landscape and visual amenity to the surrounding environs during construction stage. Potential impacts would result from the following activities:

Nature and Magnitude of Landscape Impacts during the Construction Stage

7.7.3 There will be night-time lighting during both construction and operational stage. The intention of night lighting is for the site entrance and emergency purposes only. Construction works would not be carried out at night.

Physical Landscape Resources

7.7.4 There would be impact on existing topography due to minor slope cutting and levelling of platform on the north-eastern side of the STW site. Construction work also comprises excavation of land, soil, and rock outcrops / boulders for the construction of emergency storage tanks and SBR tanks located below ground level. These associated facilities are located at the western and eastern side of the STW site. Overall, the magnitude of change on topography and landform as a landscape resource during construction is, however considered to be small.

7.7.5 There would be impact on existing topography (LR1) due to minor slope cutting and levelling of platform on the north-eastern side of the STW site. Construction work also comprises excavation of land, soil, and rock outcrops / boulders for the construction of emergency storage tanks and SBR tanks located below ground level. These associated facilities are located at the western and eastern side of the STW site. Overall, the magnitude of change on topography and landform as a landscape resource during construction is, however considered to be small.

7.7.6 Construction of STW would result in the need to remove the thin layer of existing soil. However, given that the agricultural soil (LR2) is regarded as low fertility in comparison to the total magnitude of the change on this landscape resource is considered to be intermediate.

7.7.7 There would be loss of shrubs (approximately 18,105 sq.m) loosely distributed across the STW site. As the total resource of the woodland trees (LR3) in the Ngong Ping area is significant, the loss to the STW site would constitute a small change.

7.7.8 There would be loss of shrubland and grassland (approximately 3,055 sq.m) (LR4) across most of the STW site. although in the context of the wider landscape this would represent only a small magnitude of change on this landscape resource.

7.7.9 Construction of the STW would require minor modification of the existing streamcourse (LR5) , but in terms of total resource of streams, the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible. Location of the streamcourse is illustrated in Drawing no. 23400/EN/024.

Human and Cultural Landscape Resources

7.7.10 The proposed STW works would have no direct impact on the Tian Tan Buddha (LR6), the columbarium (LR7) and Po Lin Monastery (LR8). But there would be an alteration in the quality of landscape setting to both these features through loss of vegetation and construction works (addressed under Landscape Character). The distinct field pattern to the north and the south of the STW would not be directly affected by the construction work.

Settlements (LR9)

7.7.11 There would be no direct impact on the landscape setting on the Buddha Statue, the Po Lin Monastery, and the Ngong Ping Road, although loss of vegetation and disturbance of the surrounding landscape would have an effect on the landscape character within which these sites are located. In this case, the magnitude of change would be small.

Landscape Character Zones

7.7.12 There would be impact on the Lantau Peaks and Uplands landscape character area (LC1) and Ngong Ping Development (LC2) during construction stage. The introduction of construction machinery, site formation, and building structures at both evaluated / below ground level would cause disturbance to the topography, vegetation, and rock outcrops, would be in contrast with the current sensitive natural landscape and the development area within Ngong Ping. In this case, the magnitude of change would be intermediate and small.

Nature and Magnitude of Visual Impacts during the Construction Stage

7.7.13 The visual envelope of the proposed STW works would include all areas within the baseline visual envelope. It would additionally extend into a wider area of the Nei Lak Shan. The key visual receivers are set out in Table 7.3.

Residential

7.7.14 Residents of Ngong Ping village (R1) at the centre of Ngong Ping development area would have intermittent and oblique medium range views up into the construction of both super and underground structures and slope works on the STW site. Since most of the residents of Ngong Ping village are located at the lower level of Ngong Ping compared to the STW site, the level of visual impact would be blocked by buildings and vegetation. Only those at a high level would have intermittent views of the STW. Impacts of night time lighting to residents would be minimal as the light would be blocked by buildings and vegetation. Overall the magnitude of change is considered to be intermediate.

7.7.15 Residents of Po Lin Monastery Complex (R2) located in the Ngong Ping development area would have oblique medium range view up into the eastern section of construction works. Residents would have an intermittent view of construction of superstructures and the night lighting at the STW site, but this would mostly be screened by existing buildings and vegetation. The magnitude of change is considered to be small.

Occupational Users

7.7.16 Occupational users of the youth hostels and the Tea Garden Restaurant (O1) lying close to the Ngong Ping SSSI (the tea plantation area) would have very slight long range view of the eastern portion of the STW site. Given that the distance of these views, and interference by other buildings and vegetation, and other alternative views available from the property. Night lighting would not cause impacts to the users given the distance of these views. The magnitude of change is considered to be negligible.

7.7.17 Similar to the residents at the Po Lin Monastery (O2), workers within this area would have an oblique and medium range view up the STW site. Occupational user would have a brief view on the construction works as this would be screened by existing buildings and vegetation. The magnitude of change is therefore considered to be small.

Recreational Users

7.7.18 The Buddha Statue (C1) is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hong Kong and is also a landmark for the Lantau Island. Visitors to the Buddha Statue on the northwestern side of the viewing platform only, would have an oblique, medium range view down to the STW site. View towards the STW site from the access steps would be screened by the existing buildings and vegetation. Impacts of night lighting during construction stage would be minimal as there would be no visitors at night. In consideration of other scenic quality of other alternative views that could be enjoyed by the visitors, it is considered that the magnitude of change would be intermediate.

7.7.19 Visitors of Po Lin Monastery Complex (C2) located in the Ngong Ping development area would have oblique medium range view up into the eastern section of construction works. Visitors would have an intermittent view of construction of superstructures and night lighting at the STW site, but this would be screened by existing buildings and vegetation. The magnitude of change is considered to be small.

7.7.20 Visitors of Youth Hostel and the Tea Garden Restaurant (C3) would have long range views of the construction works. Given that the distance of these views, interference from existing buildings and vegetation, and alternative views from this property are available. The magnitude of change in view would be negligible.

7.7.21 Hikers on the Nei Lak Shan Ridgeline trails (C4) and the associated footpaths would have uninterrupted views of the proposed works over a distance of some 1200 metres. The works would be seen against the backdrop of the hill slopes of the Country Park. Given the panoramic and scenic quality of alternative views, works during construction stage would results small magnitude of change in views of these users.

7.7.22 Visitors of columbarium (C5) would have a short range, direct views to the construction work at the north-western part of the STW site. This would include excavation of soil for the formation of underground structures and night lighting. Given that visitors to columbarium are only temporary basis and would not count as permanent sensitive receivers, the magnitude of change is considered as intermediate.

7.7.23 Passengers of the future Ngong Ping Cable Car System (C6) are not considered within the construction stage as the STW are assumed to be built first. This will be assessed within the operational stage.

Travellers

7.7.24 Motorists and travellers on Ngong Ping Road (T1) would have very brief, close views of the construction works in the southern section, access road construction, and slope remediation works on Ngong Ping Road. Night lighting from the STW site would also cause visual interference at night. Therefore, the construction works are likely to result in small magnitude of change in their views along Ngong Ping Road.

7.7.25 Passengers of the future public transport interchanges (T2) lies to the east of the STW site (where the possible Tung Chung Cable Car System is located) are not considered within the construction stage. It is assumed that the STW site will be built first, and this will be assessed during operational stage.

7.7.26 A summary of the significance of the landscape and visual impacts during the construction stage is illustrated in Table 7.4 and Table 7.5 for landscape and visual impacts respectively.

Table7.4 Summary of Significance of Landscape Impacts during the Construction Stage

Notes: (1) All impacts are negative / adverse unless otherwise stated

(2) Source of landscape impact on all resources / character areas would be earthworks, construction activity, and the formation of new roads / structures / buildings / slopes etc.

(3) Extent of loss is equal to the total area of the landscape resources that would be affected by the temporary and permanent works

Table7.5 Summary of Significance of Visual Impacts During Construction Stage

Notes: All impacts are negative / adverse unless otherwise stated

7.8 Mitigation Measures During the Construction Stage

7.8.1 Landscape and visual mitigation measures which should be incorporated within the permanent landscape design to ameliorate impacts caused during construction stage. Mitigation measures during construction stage are described in Table 7.6, together with the proposed funding, implementation, and maintenance agencies. and are illustrated in Drawing 23400/EN/043.

Table 7.6 Proposed Construction Stage Mitigation Measures

7.8.2 There will be no off-site landscape mitigation measures for the proposed at Ngong Ping STW site. Full allowance of mitigation measures listed should be in the detailed design of all components of the scheme, and should be adopted from the commencement of the construction and should be in place throughout the entire construction period.

7.9 Prediction of Significance of Landscape Impacts during the Construction Stage

7.9.1 The potential significance of landscape impacts during the construction stage, before and after mitigation, are described in Table 7.4 and illustrated in Drawing 23400/EN/026. This assessment follows the assessment methodology outlined in Section 7.2. It assumes that appropriate construction stage mitigation measures identified in Table 7.6 above would be implemented.

7.10 Prediction of Significance of Visual Impacts during the Construction Stage

7.10.1 The potential significance of the residual visual impacts during the construction stage, before and after construction stage mitigation has been implemented is given in Table 7.5 and illustrated in Drawing 23400/EN/040. This assessment follows the assessment methodology outlined in Section 7.2. It assumes that appropriate construction stage mitigation measures identified in Table 7.6 above would be implemented.

7.10.2 Illustrations of the likely impacts on key views of the proposed improvement works during construction stage are given in the photomontages in Drawing 23400/EN/048,(049, 050, 051, 052)and Drawing 23400/EN/053.

7.11 Operational Impacts

7.11.1 Potential Sources of Impacts in the Operational Stage

7.11.2 The extent of works for the proposed improvement works is indicated in the site layout plan, and again within the landscape mitigation measures plans shown in Drawing 23400/EN/044. The sources of impacts of the project at the operational stage would include the following: -

Nature and Magnitude of Landscape Impacts in the Operational Stage

Physical Landscape Resources

7.11.3 The formation of new cut platforms and both underground and superstructures within the site would permanently alter the topography (LR1). However, compared to the overall context of the area, the impact on topography and landform will remain small upon completion and in the long term.

7.11.4 The retention and re-use of soil stripped (LR2) from the area of the works, in the landscape mitigation planting, will help to reduce the magnitude of change on this landscape resources to slight level during the Opening Day and negligible in the long term.

7.11.5 The extensive area of proposed compensation tree planting on the northeastern portion of the site and along the STW boundaries, would in time mitigate the loss of existing trees (LR3). The magnitude of impact, however at the Opening Day would be slight, and with the growth in the new vegetation, would become negligible in the long term.

7.11.6 The proposed compensation planting of grassland / shurbland (LR4) on top of underground structures (Emergency Storage Tank, and Sequencing Batch Reactor), and, planting of both tall and low shrubs the existing / new formed slopes and along the STW boundary will in time mitigate the magnitude of the impacts to negligible level at Opening Day and would become an intermediate positive impact in time.

7.11.7 The magnitude of change of streamcourse (LR5) would remain negligible level at both Opening Day and over the long term.

Human and Cultural Landscape Resources

7.11.8 The operation of the STW would not directly affect the Tian Tan Buddha (LR6), the columbarium (LR7), and Po Lin Monastery (LR8), so the magnitude of impacts would remain negligible at Opening Day and in the long term.

Settlements

7.11.9 Given that mitigation measures would be applied to blend the STW site with the existing Ngong Ping settlements (LR9) during operation stage. The settlements would still have a physical impact on the overall topography and disturbance to the surrounding landscape. The magnitude of change would remain slight levels at the Opening Day and in long term.

Landscape Character Zones

7.11.10 The landscape character areas of Lantau Peak natural uplands (LC1) would similarly be able to reduce the level of impacts in time. The mitigation measures including careful engineering, sensitive compensation planting, and sensitive architectural detailing of superstructures proposed, would reduce the overall magnitude of the impact to intermediate levels at Opening Day, and to slight levels in the long term.

7.11.11 The extensive shrub and tree planting along the northern portion of the STW site would similarly be able to reduce the impact on the Ngong Ping Development area (LC2) in time. The magnitude of change on the character area would reduce to small at Opening Day and to negligible over time.

Nature and Magnitude of Visual Impacts during the Operational Stage

Residential

7.11.12 Grass hydroseeding and shrub and tree planting on new formed slopes to screen the superstructures of the STW site would effectively reduce the magnitude of change in the view from existing villagers at Ngong Ping area (R1). The impact would reduce to small levels at Opening Day and slight levels by Year 10.

7.11.13 Similarly grass hydroseeding, shrub and tree planting would mitigate the visual impacts for residents of Po Lin Monastery complex (R2). The magnitude of changes in the view from the Po Lin residents would be negligible at Opening Day and by Year 10.

Occupational Users

7.11.14 The proposed planting would reduce impacts on long range views of occupational users at the youth hostel / Tea Garden Restaurant (O1) would be negligible at Opening Day and by Year 10.

7.11.15 Screen trees with shrub planting would preserve the scale of impact to negligible levels at Opening Day and in long term in view of occupational users of Po Lin Monastery (O2).

Recreational Users

7.11.16 Although the architectural treatment of the superstructures and proposed planting would reduce the colour contrast between the STW site and the surrounding natural vegetation in the long range view of visitors of the Buddha Statute (C1). Given the elevated nature of the views, there is likely that the magnitude of change would be intermediate levels at Opening Day and small in the long term.

7.11.17 Screen trees with shrub planting would preserve the scale of impact to negligible levels at Opening Day and in long term in view of visitors of Po Lin Monastery (C2).

7.11.18 Grass hydroseeding, tree and shrub planting on new formed slopes, and the retention of woodland trees to screen the superstructures of the STW. Due to the long range view the impact would be negligible at Opening Day and by Year 10 in view of visitors of the youth hostel / Tea Garden Restaurant (C3).

7.11.19 The proposed planting, and careful architectural treatment would lessen the colour contrast of the STW site with its surroundings in very long range view of the recreational users of Nei Lak Shan Ridgeline trail and associated footpaths (C4). However, given the elevated nature of the views, the magnitude of change is considered to be small at both Opening Day and in long term.

7.11.20 Proposed mitigation planting along the newly formed slopes and careful architectural design of new buildings, it would reduce the impacts on views of visitors of columbarium (C5). Due to the short range of views from columbarium to the STW site, the magnitude of change resulting from works would still be moderate levels at Opening Day but would reduce to small in long term.

7.11.21 The magnitude of changes in views of passengers of future Tung Chung Cable Car System (C6) would depend on the location of the cable car terminal, its design and layout, and the angle of how cable car approaches. However, passengers are likely to have a medium distance, oblique views down to the proposed STW site. Given the panoramic nature of other alternative views, careful architectural design, and proposed screening mitigation measures, the magnitude of change would be intermediate at Opening Day and with the growth of screen vegetation, small in long term.

Travellers

7.11.22 Tree and shrub planting along the southeastern boundary should mitigate the impact on view of motorists / travellers on Ngong Ping Road (T1). The growth of the planting is likely to reduce this further to slight levels in the Opening Year and in long term.

7.11.23 Travellers at the future public transport interchanges (T2) would have a short range but a brief view looking at the STW site. In consideration that these travellers are only staying for a short time, the proposed screening mitigation measures is likely to reduce the impact to moderate level in Opening Day and small in long term.

7.11.24 A summary of the significance of the landscape and visual impacts during the Operational Stage is illustrated in Table 7.8 and Table 7.9for landscape and visual impacts respectively.

7.12 Mitigation Measures During the Operating Stage

7.12.1 Landscape and visual mitigation measures which should be incorporated within permanent landscape design to ameliorate impacts caused during the operation stage. This is illustrated in Table 7.7 , together with the proposed funding, implementation, and management and maintenance agencies. The mitigation measures are illustrated in Drawing 23400/EN/044.

7.12.3 All land disturbed during the course of the works, that will not subsequently be occupied by the permanent works, will be planted with either native woodland and shrub species. As a general approach, where these areas lie within or alongside areas of the existing woodland then woodland species will be planted. In areas bordered by tall and low shrubs, then appropriate shrub species will be established.

7.12.4 The steepness of the new slopes poses a constraint on the species that can be planted. Slopes with a gradient of not more than 35 degrees would be suitable for the establishment of tall trees species, and slopes in excess of 45 degrees would not be appropriate for small tree and tall shrub species. Soil cut slopes in excess of 55-60 degrees would not be suitable for the establishment of vegetation and would be hydro-mulched to provide green appearance.

7.12.5 Grass hydroseeding with hard groundcover is also proposed on top of the underground structures. This is to provide solid platform for the grassing and to enhance the value of landscape resource and character of these areas.

7.12.6 The limits of disturbance have to be contained as far as is practical within the STW site. This results in only a very limited amount of space for re-planting.

Architectural Treatment of Structures

7.12.7 The Ngong Ping STW would be visible from the existing Tian Tan Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery, the proposed Tung Chung Cable Car System, and to a lesser extent from the Ngong Ping Road.

7.12.8 To minimise the visual impacts of the surrounding areas, visual appearance of elevated structures within the STW site would be sensitively designed and help to blend them with the surrounding landscaped setting.

7.12.9 The massing, shape and layout of the building structures within the STW site should be compatible with the surrounding environs. This architectural design of buildings should be similar to other monastery buildings located within the Ngong Ping area in order to decrease the viewers from distance. Selection of building materials should be able to blend with the environs and should minimise the glare from reflected light source arising from the development. Structure being put underground should have compensatory planting over the top, aimed to blend in with the existing landscaped setting. Key design approaches for the STW are outlined below:-

Night Glare

7.12.10 The night lighting produced from the Ngong Ping STW would be visible from existing Tian Tan Buddha, along Ngong Ping Road, and the proposed Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal. The level of night lighting will be kept to minimal and the direction of the lighting should be facing inwards to minimise the visual intrusion. Selection of building materials should also be considered in keeping reflection of day and night glare from the buildings.

7.12.11 Illustration of the likely impacts on key views of the proposed STW site at Opening Day are illustrated in the photomontages in Drawing 23400/EN/048(049, 050, 051, 052) to Drawing 23400/EN/053. The STW site layout plan and elevation drawings are illustrated in Drawing 23400/EN/045(046)to Drawing 23400/EN/047 .

7.13 Prediction of Significance of Landscape Impacts in the Operating stage

7.13.1 An assessment of the potential significance of the landscape impacts during the operational stage, before and after mitigation is provided in Table 7.8 and illustrated in Drawing 23400/EN/027. This follows the methodology outlined in Section 7.3 and assumes that appropriate mitigation measures identified in Table 7.7 had been fully implemented.

7.14 Prediction of Significance of Visual Impacts in the Operation Stage

7.14.1 An assessment of the potential significance of the visual impacts during the operation stage, before and after mitigation is provided in Table 7.9, and illustrated in Drawing 23400/EN/041. This follows the methodology outlined in Section 7.3 and assumes that appropriate mitigation measures identified in Table 7.7 had been fully implemented.

Table7.8 Summary of Significance of Landscape Impacts in Operational Stage

Notes: (1) All impacts are negative / adverse unless otherwise stated

(2) Source of landscape impact on all resources / character areas would be earthworks, construction activity, and the formation of new roads / structures / buildings / slopes etc.