12 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

12.1 Introduction

12.1.1 The aim of this section of the report is to outline the landscape baseline conditions, planning and development control framework, and the visually sensitive receivers (VSRs). It identifies the impacts that would occur during the construction of the KCRC Spur Line between Sheung Shui and Lok Ma Chau Project; and its operational phase, recommends mitigation measures and identifies residual effects apparent after mitigation. This section also outlines any cumulative impacts that could be attributed to the Project.

12.2 Standards and Legislation

12.2.1 The methodology for undertaking the landscape and visual impact assessment is in accordance with Annex 18 of the Technical Memorandum to the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO). The assessment has been completed in accordance with Clause 3.13 of the Study Brief. The main factors influencing the assessment are given below.

12.2.2 The landscape and visual impacts are considered as follows:

· landscape impact assessment shall assess the source and magnitude of developmental effects on the existing landscape elements, character and quality in the context of the site and its environs; and,

· visual impact assessment shall assess the source and magnitude of effects caused by the proposed development on the existing views, visual amenity, character and quality of the visually sensitive receivers within the context of the site and its environs.

12.2.3 The significance thresholds for the landscape and visual impacts are assessed for the construction phase and operational phase both with and without mitigation measures.

12.2.4 In order to illustrate these landscape and visual impacts and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures, photomontages at selected representative viewpoints have been prepared to illustrate:

· existing conditions;

· unmitigated impacts;

· partially mitigated impacts after implementation of the proposed mitigation measures on day 1 of the operational phase; and,

· residual impact during year 10 of the operational phase.

12.2.5 These residual impacts are then evaluated in accordance with Annex 10 of the Technical Memorandum to the EIAO.

12.3 Landscape Impact Assessment Methodology

12.3.1 The assessment of the potential impacts of a proposed scheme on the existing landscape comprises two distinct sections:

· baseline survey; and,

· potential landscape impacts assessment.

12.3.2 For the Landscape Impact Assessment (LIA) the assessment area is taken to include all areas within 500m of the gazetted project limit.

12.3.3 A baseline survey of the existing landscape character and quality has been undertaken from site inspections and desktop surveys. Landscape elements considered include:

· local topography;

· woodland extent and type;

· other vegetation types;

· built form;

· patterns of settlement;

· land use;

· scenic spots;

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

· prominent watercourses; and,

· cultural and religious identity.

12.3.4 Planned developments either within the study area or adjacent to it are also considered. The baseline survey will form the basis of the landscape context by describing broadly homogenous units of similar character. The individual landscape character areas (LCA) and resources are rated using low, medium or high depending not only on the quality of elements present but also their sensitivity to change and local or regional importance. The quality of the landscape is not only related to its visual amenity. The magnitude of change arising from the implementation of the scheme proposals is rated as negligible, small, intermediate or large.

12.3.5 The assessment of the potential landscape impacts of the proposals will result from:

· identification of the sources of impact, and their magnitude, that would be generated during construction and operation of the scheme; and,

· identification of the principal landscape impacts, primarily in consideration of the degree of change to the baseline conditions. The impacts are considered systematically in terms of the landscape elements, the site and its context.

12.3.6 Factors affecting the magnitude of change for assessing landscape impacts:

· compatibility of the project with the surrounding landscape;

· duration of impacts under construction and operational phases;

· scale of the development; and,

· reversibility of change.

12.3.7 Factors affecting the sensitivity of for evaluation of landscape impacts:

· quality of landscape characters / resources;

· importance and rarity of special landscape elements;

· ability of the landscape to accommodate change;

· significance of the change in local and regional context, and;

· maturity of the landscape.

12.3.8 The significance threshold for impacts to landscape character and resources is rated as significant, moderate, slight or negligible. The impacts may be beneficial or adverse.

12.3.9 The impact is a product of the magnitude of change, which the proposals will cause to the existing landscape context, and it's ability to tolerate the change, i.e. its quality and sensitivity. The significance threshold is derived from the following matrix:

Magnitude of Change caused by Proposals	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate / Significant Impact	Significant Impact
	Intermediate	Slight / Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate / Significant Impact
	Small	Slight Impact	Slight / Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact
	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
		Low	Medium	High
	Sensitivity of Landscape to Change

12.3.10 The above matrix will apply in the assessment of the majority of situations, however, in certain cases a deviation from this may occur, e.g. the impact may be so major that a significant impact may occur to a landscape character or resource with a low sensitivity to change.

12.3.11 The significance threshold is considered as follows:

Negative / Beneficial Impacts

Significant: 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 the existing landscape quality

Negligible impact:

no discernible change in the existing landscape quality.

Landscape Planning Review

12.3.12 A review of the existing planning studies and documents will be undertaken as part of the assessment to gain an insight into the planned role of the site, its context and to help determine the projects fit into the wider existing and future landscape context. The review is taken from Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau. This review considered Outline Zoning Plan numbers S/NE-KTN/3 – Kwu Tung South and S/YL-ST/4 – San Tin, and the Recommended Outline Development Plan (RODP) for the Kwu Tung North NDA, October 1999 which would form the basis for subsequent land use zoning amendments for the Kwu Tung North area.

Tree Survey Methodology

12.3.13 To minimise conflicts with existing vegetation, a full tree survey will be completed in accordance with Planning Environment and Lands Branch Technical Circular No. 3/94 (Works Branch Technical Circular No.24/94, Tree Preservation). This will allow the fine tuning of the proposed detail design for the proposed scheme and ensure that any significant trees, will where possible, be protected during both the design and construction periods. The methodology and scope including the programme for the tree survey and felling application is subject to the approval of the relevant authorities namely LCSD and AFCD. This section of the report contains a preliminary assessment of the impact to existing trees and recommendations for their treatment. The figures contained in this report are subject to the findings of the detailed Tree Survey Report and Tree Felling Application currently being undertaken.

Visual Impact Assessment Methodology

12.3.14 The assessment of the potential visual impact of the scheme comprises two distinct parts:

· Baseline survey; and,

· Visual impact assessment.

12.3.15 For the Visual Impact Assessment (VIA), the assessment area is taken to include the visual envelope, which includes all areas from which the scheme proposals can be seen. This area forms the view shed formed by natural / manmade features such as existing ridgelines, built development and for example areas of woodland / large trees.

12.3.16 The baseline survey of all views towards the proposals is undertaken by identifying:

· The visual envelope as has been described above and may contain both open and partial views of the proposals. This must also include indirect effects such as offsite construction activities; and,

· The visually sensitive receivers (VSRs) within the visual envelope whose views will be affected by the scheme. The potential receivers are considered as three groups:

a) Views from residences - the most sensitive of receivers due to the high potential of intrusion on the visual amenity and quality of life,

b) View from workplaces - less sensitive than above due to visual amenity being less important within the work environment, and;

c) Views from public areas - including all areas apart from the above, e.g., public parks, recreation grounds, footpaths, roads, cultural sites, etc. Sensitivity of this group depends on the transitory nature of the receiver, e.g. sitting in a park or travelling on a highway. Also considered is the degree of view or glimpsed views.

12.3.17 However the assessment of sensitivity has also been based on the quality and extent of the existing view. Therefore a view from a residential property, which would normally be considered the most sensitive view, may be less so if, for example, it is degraded by existing development or partially screened by intervening visual obstacles such as existing vegetation.

12.3.18 The location and direction of its’ view relative to the scheme also influences the sensitivity of each group. Typical viewpoints from within each of the visually sensitive groups are identified and their views described. Both present and future visually sensitive receivers are considered.

12.3.19 The baseline survey will form the basis of the visual character and quality of the site. The assessment of the potential visual impacts will result from:

· identification of the sources of visual impacts, and their magnitude, that would be generated during construction and operation of the scheme; and,

· identification of the principal visual impacts primarily in consideration of the degree of change to the baseline conditions.

12.3.20 The impact assessment will relate to the typical viewpoints within the visual receiver group, as identified previously, and their existing and potential views subsequent to the scheme development. The factors affecting the magnitude of change for assessing the visual impacts include the following:

· compatibility of the project with the surrounding landscape forming the view;

· duration of impacts under construction and operational phases;

· scale of the development;

· reversibility of change;

· viewing distance; and,

· potential blockage of the view.

12.3.21 Factors affecting the sensitivity of receivers for evaluation of visual impacts:

· value and quality of existing views;

· availability and amenity of alternative views;

· type and estimated number of receiver population;

· duration or frequency of view; and,

· degree of visibility.

12.3.22 The views available to the identified VSRs are rated according to their sensitivity to change using low, medium or high. Whilst the magnitude of change arising from the implementation of the proposed scheme is rated as negligible, small, intermediate or large. The significance threshold for visual impact is rated in a similar fashion to the landscape impact, i.e. significant, moderate, slight and negligible. The impacts may be beneficial or adverse.

12.3.23 Therefore the impact is a product of the magnitude of change, which the proposals will cause to the existing landscape context, and it's ability to tolerate the change, i.e. its quality and sensitivity. The significance threshold is derived from the following matrix:

Magnitude of Change caused by Proposals	Large	Moderate Impact	Moderate / Significant Impact	Significant Impact
	Intermediate	Slight / Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact	Moderate / Significant Impact
	Small	Slight Impact	Slight / Moderate Impact	Moderate Impact
	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible	Negligible
		Low	Medium	High
	Sensitivity of View to Change

12.3.24 The above matrix will apply in the assessment of the majority of situations, however, in certain cases a deviation from this may occur, e.g. the impact may be so major that a significant impact may occur to a view with a low sensitivity to change.

12.3.25 The significance threshold is considered as follows:

Negative / Beneficial Impacts

Significant: 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 the existing landscape quality

Negligible impact:

no discernible change in the existing landscape quality.

Residual Impacts

12.3.26 The residual impacts are those, which remain after the proposed mitigation measures have been successfully implemented. This is assessed both during the construction period and during the design year, which is often taken to be 10 to 15 years after the proposed scheme has been opened to normal operation. During the design year the soft landscape mitigation measures are deemed to have reached a level of maturity, which allows them to perform their original design objectives.

12.3.27 As has been described above the level of impact is a product of the magnitude of change, which the proposals will cause to the landscape character, landscape resource or visual amenity, and their sensitivity to change. It is a comparison of the future landscape modified by the proposals with the landscape, which would have existed during this period if the proposed scheme had not been constructed. This assessment also considers the ability of the landscape character, landscape resource or visual amenity to tolerate change, i.e. its quality and sensitivity taking into account the beneficial effects of the proposed mitigation. The significance threshold is derived from the matrices described separately above for the landscape and visual impacts.

12.3.28 In accordance with Annex 10 of the EIAO TM an overall assessment is also made of the residual landscape and visual impacts attributable to the proposed scheme. The degree of residual impact is considered as follows:

Beneficial	Acceptable	Acceptable with mitigation	Unacceptable	Undetermined
The project will complement the landscape and visual character of its setting, will follow the relevant planning objectives and will improve overall and visual quality.	There will be no significant effects on the landscape and no significant visual effects caused by the appearance of the project, or no interference with key views.	There some adverse effects, but these can be eliminated, reduced or offset to a large extent by specific measures.	The adverse affects are considered too excessive and would not be reduced to an acceptable level by mitigation.	Significant adverse effects are likely but the extent to which they may occur or may be mitigated cannot be determined from the study. Further detailed study will be required for the specific effects in question.

12.4 Mitigation Measures

12.4.1 The identification of the landscape and visual impacts will highlight those sources of conflict requiring design solutions or modifications to reduce the impacts, and, if possible, blend the development and associated activities in with the surrounding landscape. These mitigation measures should take into account factors including:

· woodland, tree and shrub planting of new or disturbed slopes, amenity strips and areas, central reservations and adjacent to any new structures;

· consideration of the contouring of new slopes in order to blend them in with the existing topography;

· earth mounding and screening, structural or vegetated;

· highlighting unacceptable impacts and considering alternative scheme proposals;

· treatment of structural forms;

· hard landscape, furniture and other landscape; and,

· significant landscape elements.

12.4.2 This will result in the formation of landscape mitigation proposals, which will alleviate the previously identified landscape and visual impacts as far as possible.

12.5 Existing Landscape Context and Landscape Impacts

Existing Landscape Context

12.5.1 The proposed Spur Line alignment is located in the northern New Territories of Hong Kong between the town of Sheung Shui and the border crossing at Lok Ma Chau (refer to Figure 12.1). There are several distinct LCAs within the Study Area (refer to Figures 12.3a-b). These include the high-rise urban areas of Sheung Shui, the low lying agricultural areas of the River Beas plain including the Long Valley area, the natural uplands including mountains, cottage type developments, villages and the fish pond areas adjacent to Lok Ma Chau.

12.5.2 The proposed Spur Line alignment arises from the existing KCR East Rail line north of Sheung Shui Station and follows the existing rail alignment before turning west into a tunnel section below the River Beas floodplain, the Long Valley area. Immediately north of Sheung Shui Station the existing and proposed track alignments will be enclosed by noise barriers (300m long and 5m high to the east and 300m long, 5.8m high with a 3.6m cantilever to the west of the track alignment). The proposed alignment will enter the tunnel approach and tunnel portal to the north of Po Shek Wu Road with a Ventilation Building (75m long, 30m wide and 12.7m high) being located on the initial tunnel section. The scheme proposals also include a temporary narrowing of San Wan Road to the east of the track alignment. The above ground structure of an Emergency Access Point (EAP) (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high) will be located to the south of the proposed alignment on the eastern bank of the River Sutlej MDC. The construction of the tunnel below the River Sutlej MDC will require a temporary disturbance of the riverbed. The Long Valley area primarily comprises agricultural fields, which are generally active, although some areas are abandoned and have reverted to rough grassland, together with several large fishponds. Long Valley is bounded on the west by the River Beas, which flows from south to north. This is currently being improved as part of the overall flood prevention programme of the New Territories and will be constructed as a wide concrete trapezoidal channel. The above ground structure of a second EAP (21m long, 12m wide and 10.8m high) will be located on the western bank of the River Beas to the south of the alignment.

12.5.3 Beyond the River Beas the Spur Line alignment continues in tunnel to the south of Ho Sheung Heung village and through an extensive area of cottage development including Tong Kok, Fung Kong and Tung Fong. Two temples are located in the south of Ho Sheung Heung. This is an area characterised by low-rise housing and light workshop/industrial activities interspersed with tree groups. Within this area the Spur Line tunnel alignment passes to the north of the Dill’s Corner Camp, the former military base. Beyond the cottage areas to the south is the dual-3 Fanling Highway (NTCR) that forms a distinctive landscape character area running east to west along the southern periphery of the study area. A third EAP (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high) with its associated above ground structure is located to the north west of the Dills Corner Camp. The scheme will also feature the above ground services cluster associated with the station box for the future Kwu Tung Station (48m long, 29.2m wide and at the highest point some 17.3m high although the main part of the structure will be 5.3m high).

12.5.4 As the Spur Line alignment proceeds through the cottage areas of the central section of the Study Area its turns south to avoid the natural lower slopes of the Tit Hang hills. The western tunnel portal where the vertical alignment rises onto viaduct is located to the south of Chau Tau. A forth EAP (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high) with associated above ground structure is located to the north west of Pak Shek Au and a ventilation building (15m long, 15m wide and 11m high) located to the south of Chau Tau at the western end of the tunnel. The hillsides that form the main enclosure for the valley floor in this area are relatively undisturbed and comprise a mix of grass and scrub vegetation. The Chau Tau Grenade Range is located on the upper slopes. The proposed alignment then ascends onto viaduct (ranging in height between 16 and 20m above the existing ground level) passing the hillside, through the cottage and agricultural area of Chau Tau. Along this section the Spur Line runs parallel to Fanling Highway (NTCR), approximately 100m to the north. The remainder of the alignment will be constructed on viaduct leading to the proposed Lok Ma Chau Terminus. The scheme proposals also include the widening of Lok Ma Chau Road (the proposed access road for EVA access and station access) to the west of Chau Tau, and Pun Uk Tsuen. This emergency access extends to the Sam Chun River before following the southern riverbank to the proposed Lok Ma Chau Terminus.

12.5.5 Adjacent to the Fanling Highway / San Sham Road Interchange the Spur Line turns to the north to run parallel to, and east of, San Sham Road and the Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing facilities. This is an area comprising a mix of active and inactive fishponds. Some of the ponds have been filled and now form rough grassland. The Lok Ma Chau border crossing to the west is characterised by a large area of hard standing and includes built structures such as kiosks and low-rise administration buildings. The crossing is currently undergoing an extension to increase capacity requiring the construction of additional kiosks and waiting areas.

12.5.6 To the north of the border crossing, the Spur Line turns east, crossing San Sham Road and into an extensive area of fishponds south of the Sham Chun River. The Spur Line terminates at this point with the proposed Lok Ma Chau Terminus. It is proposed that the Terminus will be a four-storey building, approximately 27m high with a total site area of approximately 1250m by 500m, will contain border-crossing facilities with a double deck pedestrian bridge over the Shan Chun River to the Peoples Republic of China. A second station complex, Huanggang Station, will be constructed on the northern side of the Shan Chun River connected to the Lok Ma Chau Terminus by the proposed pedestrian link or footbridge. Beyond the river is the large and visually prominent high-rise city of Shenzhen. The construction of the viaduct for the station approach will also require a diversion of the existing CLP 132kV power lines.

12.5.7 The existing landscape quality and sensitivity of the study area, which varies along the proposed Spur Line alignment, is shown on Figures 12.3a-b. The hills of Tit Hang and Fung Kong Shan are of a high landscape quality and sensitivity due to their undisturbed and natural character. The fishpond areas to the west of the hills at Tit Hang are considered to be of high landscape quality and hence highly sensitive to construction works of this type. The agricultural areas are of a high to medium quality due to their low level of disturbance and relatively open nature and as a landscape resource, although the retraining of the River Beas will detract from the landscape quality of Long Valley. Cottage and village areas are generally considered as being of a medium quality due to the presence of the local landscape features such as the temples at Ho Sheung Heung and the extent of the existing mature tree groups although this quality is degraded in locations due to the level of disturbance. Areas of low quality landscape character include Sheung Shui, the road corridor along the Fanling Highway (NTCR) due to the high levels of disturbance and lack of landscape features, and the urban area north of the Shan Chun River due to the level of built development. Tables 12.1 and 12.2 give a brief description of the landscape resources and landscape character areas found within the study area.

Unmitigated Impacts on Landscape Character, Quality and Resources

12.5.8 The works include, as has been described above, the construction of a tunnel section from Sheung Shui to the village of Chau Tau extending west below Long Valley, the River Beas, Kwu Tung and Pak Shek Au. Beyond this point the Spur Line vertical alignment rises onto viaduct as the alignment turns north and runs through the road corridor and open storage areas adjacent to San Sham Road, before proceeding over the fishponds at Lok Ma Chau. The Spur Line alignment then continues west crossing the border crossing before terminating at the proposed Lok Ma Chau Terminus on the Sam Po Shue fishponds. The pedestrian link across the Shan Chun River north of the station complex, which provides a physical connection to the proposed Huanggang Station, would have little perceivable impact on the landscape character and quality of the study area.

12.5.9 The use of the proposed tunnel section from Sheung Shui to Chau Tau means that for a large part of the scheme the predicted landscape impacts will be generally centred around the proposed above ground structures. These include a Ventilation Building at the eastern tunnel portal, an EAP Shaft on the eastern bank of the River Sutlej, an EAP structure on the western bank of the River Beas, entrances to Kwu Tung Station including the proposed services cluster with an adjacent EAP shaft and a final EAP shaft to the north of Pak Shek Au. There would also be a ventilation building to the east of the western tunnel portal. These above ground structures would lead to the loss of landscape resources, and disturbance to the existing and future landscape character in the immediate however these impacts would be largely localised due to the enclosed nature of the existing landscape context.

12.5.10 For the remainder of the alignment west of Chau Tau, impacts from the above ground section of the alignment, which is built on viaduct, will be generally being confined to areas adjacent to the alignment. The use of the tunnel section will avoid impact to the sensitive agricultural areas in the River Beas Plain / Long Valley area. The main predicted impacts on existing landscape character will occur in the areas west of Chau Tau, together with the fishpond areas at Lok Ma Chau and Sam Po Shue. However, the direct impacts on specific landscape elements have been minimised as much as a possible though the design of the viaduct alignment for the Spur Line. There would be a small loss to the existing Fung Shui woodlands near Lok Ma Chau Road (approximately 0.02 hectares), other woodlands within the study area would not be subject to lose due to the selection of a route alignment, which avoids contact with these culturally sensitive landscape resources. The location of these Fung Shui woodlands is shown in the Ecology Chapter of this report.

12.5.11 The proposed widening of Lok Ma Chau Road would lead to the temporary loss of the existing mature trees lining the road. This would have a temporary significant adverse impact on the landscape character of the area adjacent to the existing road corridor. However as with the impacts described above the landscape of the area west of Chau Tau and Pun Uk Tsuen is enclosed by existing vegetation and built development and so the impacts would be largely localised. The construction of the proposed access road for EVA access and station access to the west of Ha Wan Tsuen although crossing an area of existing fishponds is located adjacent to the Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing and so disturbance to the existing landscape resources and character is minimised as far as possible. The proposed western section of the road on the southern bank of the Sham Chun River is located in area already degraded by the highly engineered form of the river and so impacts to the existing landscape resources and character would be minimal.

12.5.12 The proposed alteration to the existing CLP 132kV power line to the east of the Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing would have a beneficial impact on the landscape character of the area through the proposed burying of the cable in this area up to a location near to the Fanling Highway.

Impacts on Existing Landscape Resources

12.5.13 An important determinant of the landscape character within a Study Area, which is largely rural, is the type and extent of its landscape resources both natural and cultivated. These landscape resources are shown on Figure 12.2a - b. For the purposes of this assessment the landscape resources are represented by the existing land cover. The condition of these landscape resources is also important in determining the landscape quality of the Study Area and its sensitivity to change. Therefore the preservation and enhancement of these landscape resources is important to the successful integration of the proposals into the landscape of the Study Area. Table 12.1 below describes the abundance of a landscape resource within the Study Area, the loss of this resource due to the proposals and the predicted impact of this loss on the resource and the landscape character of the Study Area.

Impacts on Existing Trees Identified in the Tree Survey Report

Existing Trees

12.5.14 There are approximately 3,200 trees within the Gazettal Boundary for the proposed scheme. These are mainly concentrated in the central and western sections of the Study Area.

Tree Retention

12.5.15 Generally any trees or tree groups on the fringes of the proposed track construction would be maintained where possible. The extensive construction of the embankments and viaduct structures would involve in some cases partial removal of tree groups. Where possible, the proposed earthwork slopes both in cutting and on embankment would be feathered at the edge of the slopes to allow trees to be retained. However, where it is not possible to retain trees it is recommended that these trees be felled or transplanted.

12.5.16 Approximately 1,150 of the trees surveyed would be retained under the current proposals, these include roadside trees not affected by the proposed realignment.

Tree Transplantation Proposals

12.5.17 In terms of assessing the feasibility of transplanting the trees, the following factors were taken into account:

· Trees were to have above average form, health and amenity value.

· Trees assessed as having a high or at least medium amenity value and predicted survival rate.

· Trees should be native or rare species.

· Ease of access - In some cases transplantation would be difficult and dangerous due to the physical characteristics of the site and the inaccessibility of their situations.

· The physical characteristics of the specimen trees - For example, the trees on steep slopes respond to the existing gradient with a higher proportion of roots on the downhill side and the root ball usually forms itself to the angle of slope. It is often difficult to find a similar location that is suitable for the transplantation of these trees. In addition, these trees often have an unbalanced crown that would make them unstable if transplanted to another location.

· Transplantation back onto a slope is often not practicable due to the difficulty of gaining safe access due to a combination of the nature of the slopes, the gradients involved and the stability of the machinery used.

· The survival rate of trees would be improved if a permanent location could be found immediately after being lifted as opposed to the use of a temporary holding nursery.

12.5.18 Taking all these factors into account the tree survey report recommends that approximately 250 trees could be transplanted. These are mainly trees surveyed individually and are accessible to the road. The trees to be transplanted include those situated along San Wan Road and those lining Lok Ma Chau Road. The tree survey report recommends that the trees identified as being appropriate for transplantation are relocated in locations identified through consultation with LCSD, HyD and / or AFCD. It is not recommended that the trees be transplanted to a temporary holding nursery for the duration of the railway construction contracts due to the potential damage that the trees will suffer if they are moved twice and the likely costs involved in setting up a holding nursery.

Tree Felling Proposals

12.5.19 The Tree Survey Report concludes that it would not be feasible to retain or transplant approximately 1,800 of the existing trees for the following reasons:

· In some locations the scope of the proposed works and site formation precludes any opportunities to retain existing trees.

· The slopes are too steep to enable machinery access to transplant them.

· The necessary excavation and cutting into slopes, means it is technically unfeasible to retain the trees.

· The trees are of poor quality in terms of form or health.

· The tree if retained in a solitary position would become unstable and dangerous in windy conditions.

· Trees, which are too large or mature to be transplanted successfully.

Landscape Resource	Total Area of Resource / Total Loss of Area (Ha) / % Loss	Sens.	Mag of Change (Con / Oper phase)	Impact on Landscape Character resulting from the loss of the Existing Landscape Resources.	Significance Threshold (Unmitigated)	Mitigation Measures	Significance Threshold (Mitigated)
Fung Shui Woodland	17.81/ 0.02 / 0.1%	High	Small to Negligible Small / Small to Negligible	The main area of woodland lost would result from the Lok Ma Chau Road widening required as part of the Spur Line proposals. This loss would not have a significant adverse impact on the landscape character of the Study Area as the existing Lok Ma Chau Road already severs this area of woodland. Also the area lost forms a small percentage of the total area of Fung Shui woodland.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse	Reinstatement of planting along trackside where lost. The design of noise mitigation measures to be responsive to the existing landscape and minimise impacts on the existing landscape character.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse
Woodland (including secondary forest and plantation forest)	48.00 / 0.16 / 0.3%	Medium	Intermediate / Small	These areas form an important landscape and visual resource within the Study Area and include for the purposes of this assessment those trees lining San Wan and Lok Ma Chau Roads. Although these temporary impacts would be significant in these locations generally the overall impact would be minimal in terms of the impact on the overall existing resource and thus would not have a significant impact on the landscape character of the Study Area. Also a large proportion of the area lost is in the central section of the route alignment, which now forms the site for the future Kwu Tung North NDA.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Reinstatement of naturalistic planting adjacent to the periphery of the proposed station complex and the more formal landscape treatment of the complex site. The footbridge has been designed to be a visually light structure through the use a large transparent sections. Replanting of trees lining San Wan and Lok Ma Chau Roads.	Moderate adverse	Slight adverse
Orchard	10.91 / 0.52 / 4.8%	Medium	Small / Small	The loss of these areas of orchard mainly situated in the central section of the proposed Spur Line alignment, adjacent to the above ground structures, would not have a significant adverse impact on the future landscape character area which will be the site for the Kwu Tung North NDA. The landscape character of the NDA will be very different to that which currently exists. The landscape mitigation proposed for this area has been designed to screen the Spur Line in low and medium level views whilst visually integrating the form of the proposed earthworks and track in more elevated views from the proposed high-rise residential development associated with the NDA.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse	Compensatory planting for the loss of this resource would not be appropriate due to the future landscape character of the Kwu Tung North NDA. Also the proposed planting lining the track has been designed to screen low and medium level views of the Spur Line proposals from the proposed NDA residential development.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse to negligible impact
Agricultural Land (Dry)	34.41 / 0.09 / 0.26%	Medium	Negligible / Negligible	None of the existing resource within the important landscape area of Long Valley will be lost due to the adoption of the tunnel option.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
Agricultural Land (Wet)	14.25 / 0.0 / 0.0%	Medium	Negligible / Negligible	None of the existing resource within the important landscape area of Long Valley will be lost due to the adoption of the tunnel option.	Negligible Impact	Negligible impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
Agricultural Land (not currently cultivated)	20.06 / 0.55 / 2.3%	High	Small / Small	The loss of 2.3% of this agricultural land. None of the existing resource within the important landscape area of Long Valley will be lost due to the adoption of the tunnel option.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse	None required	Slight adverse	Slight adverse
Fishpond Areas	92.15 / 9.6 / 10.4%	High	Small / Small	The loss of approximately 10.4% of the fishponds in the study area would have moderate impact on the overall resource in terms of landscape character. A large part of the fish pond areas lost would be due to the proposed Lok Ma Chau Station complex, and although the loss of this area would represent the erosion of a limited resource in the HK SAR, the location of the area is contiguous with existing development and so its loss would not significantly affect the landscape character of this area.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	The existing fishponds within the Study Area affected by the Spur Line proposals would for a large part be restored following the construction period. A comprehensive mitigation scheme is proposed for ecological impacts and this would enhance the ecological function of an area of approximately 36ha fishponds and marsh.	Moderate adverse	Negligible impact
Marsh	1.67 / 0.00 / 0%	Medium	Small / Small to Negligible	None of the existing resource within the important landscape area of Long Valley will be lost due to the adoption of the tunnel option.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Although a relatively large area of marshland and reed beds would be created as part of the ecological mitigation for Lok Ma Chau Station it would not be necessary from landscape impact perspective.	Moderate adverse	Slight adverse
Watercourses	56.97 / 0.04 / 0.1%	Medium	Small to negligible/ Small to negligible	Many of the larger existing watercourses within the Study Area, which influence its perceived landscape character, have been modified by man; these include the retrained river channels to the east the River Beas, Shek Sheung River and Shan Chun River. Therefore any further modifications made as a result of the Spur Line proposals would have no significant impact on the existing resource. In terms of smaller watercourses the main types are the man made ditches which are characteristic of the long Valley area. These are characterised by their earth banks, whilst some are constructed of artificial materials. These would not be affected by the proposals.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse	Compensatory mitigation measures for the minor loss of this resource should focus on the improvement of the existing landscape character of the watercourses affected.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse
Grass / Shrub Mosaic	8.05 / 0.02 / 0.2%	Medium	Small / Small to Negligible	The main areas of this resource are situated on the hill slopes of the mountains to the north of the Study Area and would not be affected by the Spur Line proposals.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse	Compensatory mitigation measures for the modest loss of this resource were not thought appropriate, as the main area of loss would be adjacent to Tong Kok, which forms part of the future Kwu Tung North NDA.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse to negligible impact

Table 12.2: Existing Landscape Character and Landscape Impacts (Refer to Figures 12.3a-b)

The following table presents the predicted unmitigated and mitigated (residual) impacts for the proposed scheme during the construction and operational phases of the project. The mitigated residual impacts are assessed during the design year which for the purposes of this study is taken as being between 10 and 15 years after the schemes opening when the proposed mitigation planting is deemed to have reached a level of maturity, which is sufficient for it to perform the design objectives. It should be noted that, with the exception of the area immediately north of the existing Sheung Shui Station, noise barriers were not considered necessary for this scheme.

Landscape Character Area (LCA)	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper phase)	Main Impacts on Landscape Character Area	Impact Significance Threshold (Unmitigated)		Mitigation Measures	Impact Significance Threshold (Mitigated)
Landscape Character Area (LCA)	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper phase)	Main Impacts on Landscape Character Area	Con	Oper	Mitigation Measures	Con		Oper
Major Urban Development
MUD 1: Sheung Shui Sheung Shui is located at the eastern end of the study area and bounded by Fanling Highway (NTCR) to the south. The conurbation is dominated by a mix of low, medium and high-rise buildings in dense clusters separated by open space, amenity and undeveloped areas. The southern part of the LCA contains the more modern developments of the new town areas comprising the high-rise residential estates. Included within this unit is a former Temporary Housing Area, which is now under redevelopment and the Sheung Shui Sewage Treatment Works. The existing KCR East Rail line is a major feature of the area. The high level of disturbance and lack of key landscape features result in a landscape value of low quality and sensitivity to further change.	Low	Intermediate / Intermediate	Relatively minor disturbance to vegetative buffer along existing KCR line (R & C) Introduction of noise attenuation barriers to east (160m long and 4m high) and west (160m long, 4.4m high with a 2.5m cantilever) of existing KCR East Rail north of Sheung Shui station (C) Introduction of additional rail infrastructure within urban areas and adjacent to new developments including ventilation building (75m long, 30m wide and 12.7m high) (C) Introduction of EAP Structure east of the River Sutlej MDC (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high) (C)	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Reinstatement of planting along trackside where lost including the restoration of the soft landscape areas lining San Wan Road. The design of noise barriers to be responsive to the existing landscape and minimise impacts on the existing landscape character. Careful design of the facades of the proposed above ground structures associated with the tunnel section and screen planting within the project limit.	Moderate adverse		Moderate adverse
MUD 2 Kwu Tung North New Development Area The NDA is conceived as a high-rise residential, commercial, business use and government / institutional development which will replace the existing largely cottage type development in the valley situated south of the Fung Kong Knolls and north of the NTCR. The central area of the new town will be characterised by the Town Park and the railway reserve above the proposed Spur Line Tunnel section. It is proposed that these measures in addition to the proposed landscape framework and urban design concept to create a high quality urban environment for the future residents of Kwu Tung North.	Medium	Negligible / Small to Negligible	Spur Line, constructed in tunnel, will be in place prior to the first population intake of the Kwu Tung North NDA. However the proposed above ground structure including the station entrances and the EAP will be visible to future VSRs. The introduction of the proposed above ground services cluster 48m long, 29.2m wide and at the highest point some 17.3m high although the main part of the structure is 5.3m high) (C). The introduction of EAP Structure north of Pak Shek Au (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high) (C).	Negligible as the Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake.	Slight adverse to negligible impact	The proposed railway will be constructed in tunnel and so for the large part no landscape mitigation will be required. However there will be a number of above ground structures such as the EAP and station entrances, which will require sensitive landscape treatment in order to minimise impact. This treatment includes the use of screen planting and the finishes of the proposed structures.	Negligible as the Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake.	Slight adverse to negligible impact
Lowland Agricultural Areas
L1 North of Sheung Shui A large area of active agriculture to the east of the study area. Tree groups, primarily comprising fruit species and concentrated around the sporadic housing. The occasional fishpond is also present. The relatively low level of disturbance, together with the area's intervisibility with surrounding landscape together with its role as a buffer adjacent to Sheung Shui has imbued this area with a relatively high sensitivity to change.	High to medium	Negligible / Negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	None required.	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
L2 River Beas Plain / Long Valley and Fung Kong This is a large area located to the east of the study area in the lower lying areas adjacent to the River Beas and the villages of Fung Kong and Tong Kok. The field pattern is complex and mature with most of the fields being actively cultivated, although there are several areas, which are unused and have reverted to rough grassland. Several fishponds are present to the west. Tree vegetation is generally sparse and restricted to field boundaries, adjacent to local houses and, together with bamboo clumps, along the banks of the River Beas. The river is part of a separate strategy for flood alleviation in the New Territories. The retrained river channel when complete will be approximately 20m, trapezoidal section concrete channel with planted external embankments. This channel will detract from the overall character of the area. As part of the mitigation for the project areas of wetland will be created in several of the remnant meanders. The agricultural areas are of importance due to their relatively low level of disturbance, their role as a landscape buffer to Sheung Shui although the proposed channel detracts from the overall quality.	High	Small to negligible / Negligible	No direct impact to the Long Valley area. Introduction of the proposed emergency vehicle access / escape staircase / assembly area adjacent to the River Beas MDC works. The EAP Structure (21m long, 12m wide and 10.8m high) on the western bank of the River Beas MDC. Adjacent to this structure will be an area of hard standing for car parking and to provide an assembly area (C). Introduction of EAP Structure east of the River Sutlej MDC (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high) (C).	Slight adverse	Negligible impact	Proposed soft landscape mitigation measures on the periphery of the sites for the EAP structure west of the River Beas, and the EAP structure and ventilation building east of the River Sutlej. This treatment also includes the design of the finishes for the proposed structures.	Slight adverse	Negligible impact
L3 North of Ki Lun Shan A small area to the south of Fanling Highway dominated by agriculture although several areas are unused and are being developed reducing their perceived landscape quality and sensitivity to further change.	High	Negligible / Negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	None required.	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
L4 Chau Tau This is a smaller area located towards the west of the study area adjacent to the Fanling / San Sham Road Interchange. The area comprises fields, which are generally still cultivated and have a complex and mature field pattern. They form an important buffer between the local roads and the villages and are of importance due to their relatively undisturbed nature and sensitivity to change.	Medium	Large to Intermediate / Intermediate to Small	Disturbance to field patterns and vegetation including trees. (C & R) Construction of the proposed tunnel portal, tunnel approach ramp and viaduct sections. (C) Introduction of the proposed ventilation building and hard standing south of the village of Cha Tau and north of Castle Peak Road. (15m long, 15m wide and 11m high) (C). Introduction of tunnel portal and approach ramped viaduct ascending to maximum height of approximately 16m above the existing ground level) (C).	Significant adverse	Moderate adverse	Screen planting adjacent to above ground structures and restoration of disturbed areas. This treatment also includes the design of the finishes for the proposed structures.	Moderate adverse	Slight adverse
Natural Upland Areas
NUA 1 Tai Shek Mo and Tung Kong Shan These areas are located to the east of the study area, north of the Spur Line and comprise of the natural slopes of Tai Shek Mo and Tung Kong Shan. The lower slopes are vegetated with trees with the upper levels dominated by scrub and grassland. The upland areas are of high quality and a major natural resource locally providing a major buffer to the sprawl around the villages of Tong Kok and Fong Kong. These areas also have an important role in forming the landscape setting for the valley and have a strong influence on the areas landscape character. Low levels of disturbance resulting in high sensitivity.	High	Negligible / negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
NUA 2 Ki Lun Shan Located to the south of the Spur Line and Fanling Highway, this is an extensive are of the natural Ki Lun Shan hillside. Woodland belts fringe lower slopes with the upland areas dominated by shrub and grassland. The hill provides containment and is a landscape buffer to the Fanling Highway. Low levels of disturbance and natural character result in high quality and sensitivity.	High	Negligible / negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
NUA 3 Lok Ma Chau Located to the north of the Spur Line this area comprises the hillsides of Lok Ma Chau and a lower knoll to the east. These are primarily natural slopes and important local landscape features providing a buffer to the cottage sprawl to the south and forming the landscape setting of this area. The lower slopes are vegetated with tree groups with the upper levels being characterised by scrub and grassland. The slopes are generally undisturbed and, despite the presence of the power lines, are of high quality and sensitivity to further change.	High	Negligible / negligible	Area unaffected by works resulting in no impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
Village Areas
V1 Sheung Shui This cluster of villages is located at the eastern end of the study area and comprise the following: Man Hang Tsuen; Po Sheung Tsuen; Wai Lai Tsuen; Heung Yat Tsuen; Tai Yue Tsuen; Cheung Sum Tsuen; Ha Pak Tsuen; and, Sheung Pak Tsuen. These villages are definable as separate in terms of their landscape character and perceived landscape quality, although their proximity results in a visual coalescence forming what is perceived as a single settlement overall. The villages are low-rise and comprise generally modern village houses in a regimented layout orientated to the southwest. Liu Man Shek Tong (Ancestral Hall) is present to the north of the settlements. Tree planting is present.	Medium	Negligible / Negligible	Area largely remote from works resulting in no impact with the exception of the areas contiguous with the existing track to Lo Wu where there would be temporary adverse impacts from the relocation of existing facilities such as footpaths, cycle park, trackside roads and footbridges crossing the proposed alignment. There would also be some temporary adverse impacts from the proposed temporary works area east of Cambridge Plaza.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
V2 Tai Tau Leng A small village to the east of the study area comprising low-rise houses. Trees are present, primarily on the outskirts.	Medium	Negligible / negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
V3 Tsung Pak Long Located at the eastern end of the study area to the south of the Spur Line. The village primarily comprises modern houses; however, several traditional vernacular buildings and structures are present including the original village wall, which encloses a section of the village to the south. This results in a higher landscape quality and sensitivity.	High	Negligible / negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact	Negligible impact	Negligible impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
V4 Ho Sheung Heung A medium sized village with a more open layout located to the north of the Spur Line. In general, the houses are modern although two temples are also present to the south, together with several ruins of more traditional buildings and structures. The presence of the temples and the village’s proximity to the open expanse of Long Valley results in a high landscape quality and sensitivity to change. However the existing storage areas to the south east of the village have lead to erosion of both the landscape quality and its sensitivity to further change.	High to medium	Small to negligible / Small to negligible	Area largely remote from works resulting in minor indirect impacts due to the above ground structure of the proposed EAP. Introduction of the proposed emergency vehicle access / escape staircase / assembly area adjacent to the River Beas MDC works. The EAP Structure (21m long, 12m wide and 10.8m high) on the western bank of the River Beas MDC. Adjacent to this structure will be an area of hard standing for car parking and to provide an assembly area (C).	Slight adverse to negligible impact	Slight adverse to negligible impact	None required	Slight adverse to negligible impact	Slight adverse to negligible impact
V5 Pun Uk Tsuen and Chau Tau Two small villages to the west of the study area comprising low-rise housing with clusters of trees.	Medium	Negligible / negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
Cottage Areas
C1 Ho Heung Sheung This is located to the east of the Ho Heung Sheung village and comprises a broad mix of land use and development including open storage, sporadic agriculture, fish ponds, workshops and houses. Tree groups of primarily native and fruit trees are present. The perceived landscape quality and the areas sensitivity to further change would have been high due to features such as the fishponds and areas of mature fruit trees has been eroded by the presence of existing storage areas. Therefore this area has a medium level of perceived landscape quality and sensitivity to further change.	Medium	Small to negligible / Small to negligible	Area largely remote from works resulting in minor impacts due to the above ground structure associated with the proposed EAP. Introduction of the proposed emergency vehicle access / escape staircase / assembly area adjacent to the River Beas MDC works. The EAP Structure (21m long, 12m wide and 10.8m high) on the western bank of the River Beas MDC. Adjacent to this structure will be an area of hard standing for car parking and to provide an assembly area (C).	Slight adverse to negligible impact	Slight adverse to negligible impact	Landscape planting adjacent to the proposed EAP structures to screen the development from the remainder of the LCA and integrate it into the existing landscape framework. The external appearance of the structure should also be carefully considered.	Slight adverse to negligible impact	Slight adverse to negligible impact
C2 Tung Fong This is a large area of cottage development central to the study area and comprises a mix of development and land uses including low-rise housing, open storage, workshops, and small areas of agriculture, warehousing, graves and Dill’s Corner Camp. Remnant tree groups are present with species varying from native to fruit trees and with more ornamental amenity species. There are also areas of high-disturbance and platform formation reducing the overall landscape quality and the character areas sensitivity to further change.	Low	Intermediate / Small to negligible	Disturbance to the overall mixed development Construction of the proposed Kwu Tung Station (please refer to the dimensions described under MUD 2 Kwu Tung North New Development Area above) with excavation and temporary works area causing disruption to the existing landscape character. Introduction of the proposed emergency vehicle access / escape staircase / assembly area north of Po Lau Road and the EAP above ground structures. Disturbance to several tree groups and temporary adverse impact from the temporary works areas, located in the former military base at Dills Corner Camp.	Moderate adverse	Slight adverse to negligible impact	Restoration of works areas and screening planting adjacent to the above ground structures associated with the Kwu Tung North station entrances and the EAP. This treatment also includes the design of the finishes for the proposed structures.	Moderate to slight adverse	Negligible impact
C3 Chau Tau A large area adjacent to the villages of Chau Tau and Pun Uk Tsuen and comprises a mix of houses, workshops, several fishponds and small agricultural areas. Several areas also comprise orchards in the north. The relatively low level of disturbance compared to other cottage areas result in a medium quality	Medium	Intermediate / Intermediate to Small	Introduction of the proposed viaduct structure as a new infrastructure element within the landscape with localised impacts. Introduction of the proposed ventilation building and hard standing south of the village of Cha Tau and north of Castle Peak Road. (15m long, 15m wide and 11m high) (C). Introduction of tunnel portal and approach ramped viaduct ascending to maximum height of approximately 16m above the existing ground level) (C). Main part of the area largely unaffected by works with the exception of the widening of Lok Ma Chau Road for emergency vehicle access and station access leading to the loss of roadside trees.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	The protection of existing trees during the construction period and compensatory tree planting to replace those trees lost. This treatment also includes the design of the finishes for the proposed structures.	Moderate to slight adverse	Slight adverse to negligible impact
Road Corridor and Linear Development
RC1 Fanling Highway The road corridor, comprising the Fanling Highway, runs east west through the southern part of the study area. This is a dual-3 road and is generally vegetated along the roadside with a mix of trees, shrubs and grass. Tree species present include Acacia confusa and Melaleuca leucadendron. Adjacent to the road is local development including open storage, some residential development and workshop areas. The high level of disturbance and lack of features result in an overall low landscape quality and sensitivity to further change although the roadside planting are an important landscape element both from within and without the character area.	Low	Negligible / negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact and screened by existing roadside trees.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
RC2 Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing This area is located to the west of the study area and includes the border crossing and San Sham Road. This is a large area of hard standing and includes the kiosks and low-rise administration buildings. Several areas of young Casuarina equisetifolia planting is present which screens the crossing from external views, together with some ornamental planting within the kiosk area. The crossing is currently undergoing extension to increase capacity requiring additional kiosks and waiting areas. Areas of open storage are adjacent to the road to the south.	Low	Negligible / negligible	Area remote from works resulting in no impact and screened by existing roadside trees.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
Fishponds
F1 River Beas Plain Located to the north east of the study area and north of the Spur Line adjacent to the River Beas. The ponds are generally in active use although several areas are used for agriculture. Several isolated low-rise buildings are also present. The low level of disturbance and susceptibility to change result in a high landscape quality and sensitivity to further change.	High	Negligible / Negligible	Area unaffected by works resulting in no impact	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required	Negligible impact	Negligible impact
F2 Lok Ma Chau A smaller area of fishponds between the Lok Ma Chau village and Shan Chun River, and also the border crossing, generally in active use. Several isolated buildings are also present	High.	Large / Large	Disturbance to the existing fishponds requiring temporary filling during works, although this is localised to the alignment Introduction of the proposed emergency vehicle access / escape staircase / assembly area north of Lok Ma Chau Control Point Introduction of viaduct section ranging in height from 16 to 20m above the existing ground level (C).	Significant adverse localised to the alignment	Significant adverse localised to the alignment	Replacement of fishponds below viaduct Screen planting along the boundary of the proposed station complex and emergency area.	Significant adverse localised to the alignment	Significant adverse localised to the alignment
F3 Sam So Shue This is an extensive area of fishponds to the west of the study area, which are generally in active use. Isolated buildings are also present. The extent and sensitivity of the ponds results in a high level of landscape quality and sensitivity to further change despite the proximity of the Shenzhen Strategic Economic Zone to the west of the border.	High	Large / Large	Disturbance to, and loss of the existing fishponds to the north due to the construction of the station complex. Introduction of viaduct section ranging in height from 16 to 20m above the existing ground level (C). Introduction of the Terminus complex with a total site area of approximately 1250m by 500m. The main building would rise approximately 27m above the surrounding ground level. (C & R).	Significant adverse localised to the station area	Significant adverse localised to the station area	Replacement of wetland areas adjacent to site.	Significant adverse localised to the station area	Significant adverse localised to the station area

Key: Landscape Sensitivity (Sens): Low, Medium or High

Magnitude of Change (Mag): Negligible, Small, Intermediate and Large

Significance Threshold: Negligible, Slight, Moderate and Significant (adverse or beneficial)

Residual Impacts: Refer to matrix and table in methodology section

Con – Construction Phase

Oper – Operational

Table 12.3: Review of Existing Planning and Development Control Framework (Refer to Figures 12.4a-b)

The information shown in this table and that shown on Figure 12.4a–b has been obtained from Outline Zoning Plan numbers S/NE-KTN/3 – Kwu Tung South and S/YL-ST/4 – San Tin. The Recommended Outline Development Plan (RODP) for the Kwu Tung North New Development Area (NDA) was released to the public in October 1999. It will form the basis of the subsequent land use zoning amendments for the NDA. Reference has been made to the RODP to gauge the impact of the proposed Spur Line within the planning context of this new urban development. The review is taken from Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau. The table presents the predicted unmitigated and mitigated (residual) impacts arising from the proposed scheme during the construction and operational phases of the project. The mitigated residual impacts are assessed during the design year, which for the purposes of this study is taken as being between 10 and 15 years after the schemes opening. During the design year the proposed mitigation planting is deemed to have reached a level of maturity, which is sufficient for it to perform the design objectives.

Planning Designation / Location	Approx. Area Affected by the Proposals	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper Phase)	Planning Intention of Zoning / Primary Source of Impact	Impact Significance Threshold (Unmitigated)		Mitigation Measures	Impact Significance Threshold (Mitigated)
Planning Designation / Location	Approx. Area Affected by the Proposals	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper Phase)	Planning Intention of Zoning / Primary Source of Impact	Con	Oper	Mitigation Measures	Con	Oper
Kwu Tung North Strategic Growth Area (NDA) Recommended Outline Development Plan (RODP) October 1999.
1. Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau Spur Line	0.5Ha	Low	Large beneficial / Large beneficial	The proposed Spur Line alignment has been safeguarded within these proposals; the track would bisect the proposed residential development, physically separating the two areas. There would be no loss of land to the areas identified under the RODP. The RODP allows for an approximately 84 metre corridor for the proposed Spur Line to pass through however following the initial construction period a large part of the land would be available for alternative land uses. The NDA has been designed to accommodate the proposed rail corridor, and the future design would consider the potential use of this area. Therefore based on the NDA proposals shown in the RODP the proposed Spur Line would not affect the planning designation for the NDA area. In fact the construction of the proposed railway would facilitate the development of a ‘rail-based development’ for Kwu Tung North NDA one of the basic premises of its sustainable planning principles.	Moderate beneficial in that the scheme would facilitate the Spur Line proposals.	Moderate beneficial	The mitigation measures for the Spur Line have been described in detail in section 12.8 below. However the use of the proposed tunnel section will be the primary mitigation measure. Other measures include the restoration of disturbed landscapes, the implementation of planting proposals adjacent to structures particularly the above ground structures associated with the tunnel section and the extensive planting on the periphery of the Lok Ma Cha Terminus complex. The railway reserve above the tunnel section in Kwu Tung North NDA would also allow the implementation of a large landscape area through the centre of the new town.	Moderate beneficial	Moderate beneficial
2. Other Specified Uses ( Wetland Conservation Area) (West of Sheung Shui and north of Yin Kong)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Negligible	The planning intention of this designation is to safeguard good quality agricultural land. This area of agricultural land would be bisected by the proposed Spur Line alignment, although the use of a tunnel section would avoid any potential adverse impact of the proposed scheme and ensure that it remains a viable agricultural area.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
3. Government / Institution or Community (Area D8 north of the proposed Spur Line)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Negligible	The planning intention of this designation is to provide sites for Government, Institution or Community facilities serving the needs of the local as well as district population. The proposed alignment would be contained within a tunnel section and so it would not have an adverse impact on potential users of this site although the viability of the planning designation would not be affected by the proposals.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required, however the proposed railway reserve will provide an opportunity as part of the NDA proposals to create a central landscaped area, which will contribute to the quality of the future urban environment.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
4. RS, (Area D7 Residential site with a plot ratio of 6.5)	0.0Ha	High	Small to Negligible / Small to Negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide low-density housing and so future residents would form VSRs. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be contained in tunnel and so there would be *negligible* landscape and visual impacts. The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing and so future residents would form VSRs. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be in tunnel and so not visible to future residents. However there would be some above ground structures such as the proposed station entrances and EAP structure. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	The Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake for the NDA. The proposed railway reserve above the tunnel section will not be landscaped as part of these proposals. However the design of the future NDA should consider this area ‘s potential for enhancing the open space framework with the future urban environment.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
5. PSPS / HOS D4	0.0Ha	High	Small to Negligible / Small to Negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide low-density housing and so future residents would form VSRs. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be contained in tunnel and so there would be *negligible* landscape and visual impacts. The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing and so future residents would form VSRs. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be in tunnel and so not visible to future residents. However there would be some above ground structures such as the proposed station entrances and EAP structure. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	The Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake for the NDA. The proposed railway reserve above the tunnel section will not be landscaped as part of these proposals. However the design of the future NDA should consider this area ‘s potential for enhancing the open space framework with the future urban environment.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
6/7. District Open Space D3/B6	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Intermediate beneficial	The planning intention of this zone is to designate existing and proposed open spaces so as to provide active and passive recreational opportunities to serve the district population. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this area would be largely contained in tunnel with the proposed station entrances and EAP structure being above ground. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures. The 84 metre wide rail corridor through the NDA would be available for alternate land uses such as augmenting the proposed Town Park District Open Space although these details will be established in the NENT Study.	Negligible Impact	Moderate beneficial impact	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Moderate beneficial impact
8. RS / PSPS / HOS B4 (Private Sector Participation Scheme / Home Ownership Scheme Site with a plot ratio of 6.5)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing and so future residents would form VSRs. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be in tunnel and so not visible to future residents. However there would be some above ground structures such as the proposed station entrances and EAP structure. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
9. RS B3 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 5.0)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be would be largely contained within the proposed tunnel section with the above ground structures of the station entrances and EAP being visible. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
10. R (2) F3 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 5.0)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the north of this site would be would be largely contained within the proposed tunnel section with the above ground structures of the station entrances and EAP being visible. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures. There would be a residual *negligible impact* due to the Spur Line proposals.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
11. R (1) F2 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 6.5)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing and so future residents would form VSRs. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be in tunnel and so not visible to future residents. However there would be some above ground structures such as the proposed station entrances and EAP structure. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
12. R (1) F1 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 6.5)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing and so future residents would form VSRs. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the south of this site would be in tunnel and so not visible to future residents. However there would be some above ground structures such as the proposed station entrances and EAP structure. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
13. R (2) F4 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 5.0)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this zone is to provide housing. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the north of this site would be would be largely contained within the proposed tunnel section with the above ground structures of the station entrances and EAP being visible. The design of these structures to be responsive to the future landscape of the proposed Town Park and the use of tree and shrub planting would serve to visually soften the form of the structures.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
14 / 15. OU Business Uses E3 (Other Specified Uses)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this area is to provide a flexible zoning catering for uses such as distribution and logistics. The proposed Spur Line alignment to the north of this site would be in tunnel although there may be views of the proposed EAP structure to the northwest.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	As 4 above.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
16. Green Belt (East of Tit Hang)	0.0Ha	High	Negligible / Negligible	The planning intention of this area is to define the limits of urban development areas through the use of natural features, to contain urban sprawl and provide passive recreational areas. The proposed track alignment would be contained in a tunnel section and with the exception of the proposed EAP structure would not impact on the Green Belt area. Therefore although this area is important to the existing landscape character, and will be more so when the NDA proposals are implemented, the predicted residual impacts would be *negligible* in significance.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	None required.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
Outline Zoning Plan S/YL- ST/4 – San Tin
17. Green Belt (West of Tit Hang)	5.0Ha	High	Small / Small to Negligible	The planning intention of this area has been described above. The proposed track alignment would pass through the southern lowland part of this designated area. The eastern part of the alignment within this Green Belt area is characterised by existing cottage areas with a disturbed landscape character and an inherent low landscape quality, therefore losses to this area would not affect the viability of the Green Belt designation. The eastern section of the Spur Line rising from the tunnel section onto viaduct to the south west of Chau Tau would cross the remnant agricultural field areas south of the village; this area currently provides a landscape buffer between the village and the Open Storage areas west of Lok Ma Chau Road. This is an important landscape resource for the area and so the direct loss or indirect disturbance of a large part of this section of the Green Belt would have a moderate adverse impact on the landscape setting of the village. The main area of loss will occur due to the proposed above ground structures associated with Ventilation Building, EAP structure and tunnel portal at the western end of the tunnel section. However in general terms the main landscape resources for which this area is currently important and will be more so during the future following the implementation of the Kwu Tung North NDA proposals are the wooded hill slopes to the north of Pun Uk Tsuen. There would be no direct impacts on these hill slopes however there may be some slight adverse impacts on the visual amenity and the landscape character of the area. Although a more pronounced impact on the landscape character of this area will occur due to the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA.	Moderate adverse	Slight to moderate adverse	The design of the structures including the tunnel portal, retaining walls, and the ventilation building should be responsive to the existing landscape character. Soft landscape measures including tree planting will be utilised to soften the form of the structures and provide visual screening where possible.	Moderate adverse	Slight to moderate adverse

Planning Designation / Location	Approx. Area Affected by the Proposals	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper Phase)	Planning Intention of Zoning / Primary Source of Impact	Impact Significance Threshold (Unmitigated)				Mitigation Measures		Impact Significance Threshold (Mitigated)
Planning Designation / Location	Approx. Area Affected by the Proposals	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper Phase)	Planning Intention of Zoning / Primary Source of Impact	Con		Oper		Mitigation Measures		Con		Oper
18. Undetermined (Between San Sham and Lok Ma Chau Roads)	6.37Ha	Low	Small / Small	This area is currently characterised by container trailer parks, warehouses, agricultural land and some village houses. It has been designated as ‘undetermined’ due to its existing land uses and plans for the proposed Spur Line. An area to the north of Castle Peak Road would also be utilised as a proposed emergency vehicle access / escape staircase and assembly area. As such, this areas current designation would not be affected by the proposed track alignment. The degraded landscape character of this area and its’ inherent low level of quality would not be significantly affected by the Spur Line proposals.	Slight adverse		Slight adverse		The design of the proposed viaduct structure should be graceful in terms of its’ horizontal alignment and touch the ground as lightly as possible in terms of having a low visual mass when viewed in elevation.		Slight adverse		Slight adverse
19. Government / Institution or Community (Lok Ma Chau Control Point)	0.5Ha	Low	Small / Small	The planning intention of this area is to provide sites for Government, Institution or Community facilities serving the needs of the local as well as the district population. Its actual role is that of a border control checkpoint and as such it is characterised by its vehicular routes and waiting areas together with the security booths. This area has a degraded level of landscape character and landscape quality.	Slight adverse		Slight adverse		The design of the proposed viaduct structure should be graceful in terms of its’ horizontal alignment and touch the ground as lightly as possible in terms of having a low visual mass when viewed in elevation. Also disturbed landscape resources such as the existing woodland buffer should be restored following the construction phase.		Slight adverse		Slight adverse
20. Green Belt (South of Lok Ma Chau lookout point)	0Ha	High	Intermediate to small / Small to negligible	The planning intention of this area has been described in general terms above. Although there is a general presumption against development in these areas some limited development may be permitted where there are strong planning grounds. This area covers the valley sides south of Tai Law Hau from Tit Hang to Lok Ma Chau. It also forms the landscape setting for a number of small settlements such as Pun Uk Tsuen and Chau Tau. The proposed route alignment, which would be built on viaduct, would sever the southern section of the Green Belt. This landscape is currently characterised by village areas, agricultural fields and small fishpond areas. The proposed track would lead to the loss of amenity in the area to the south and west of Chau Tau although the main landscape resources for which the area is designated would remain intact and so this area would remain viable as Green Belt. Therefore although the proposed rail alignment would lead to the physical loss of part of this important landscape designated area and the loss of some amenity.		Moderate to slight adverse		Slight adverse		The design of the proposed viaduct structure should be graceful in terms of its’ horizontal alignment and touch the ground as lightly as possible in terms of having a low visual mass when viewed in elevation. Also disturbed landscape resources such as the existing woodland buffer should be restored following the construction phase.		Moderate to slight adverse		Slight adverse
21. Conservation Area (San Sham Road to Ping Hang)	11.00Ha	High	Large / Intermediate	The Conservation Area designation is intended to protect the existing natural characteristics of the area, and has particular importance for the Mai Po Nature Reserve. The section of the conservation area through which the proposed route would pass is characterised by small pond areas. During the construction phase approximately 11 hectares of this area would fall within the scheme boundary. However following the completion of the construction period much of this area would be restored as fishponds. The proposed track alignment, which is built on viaduct, would sever the western section of this fishpond area leaving much of the area to the east intact. A comprehensive package of ecological mitigation measures has been formulated to compensate for the potential degradation of this ecological resource. These measures these are described in the ecological impact assessment section of this report. The hills of Tai Law Hau and Ping Hang, which also form part of the Conservation Area, would be unchanged by the proposals. Therefore the main resources for which this area was designated would remain largely intact and any potential losses would be compensated for in the proposed mitigation strategy.		Significant adverse		Moderate adverse		The design of the proposed viaduct structure should be graceful in terms of its’ horizontal alignment and touch the ground as lightly as possible in terms of having a low visual mass when viewed in elevation. Also disturbed landscape resources such as the existing woodland buffer should be restored following the construction phase.		Significant adverse		Moderate adverse
22. Major Road (San Sham Road)	0Ha	Low	Negligible / Negligible	The Shan Sham Road is a major link between Hong Kong and China. The proposed track alignment would traverse the road section from Lok Ma Chau Control point to the Shenzhen Economic Zone. At this point the proposed track alignment would be built on viaduct and so there would be no permanent impact upon vehicular access. Therefore the planning designation for this area would remain unchanged by the proposals.		Negligible Impact		Negligible Impact		The design of the proposed viaduct structure should be graceful in terms of its’ horizontal alignment and touch the ground as lightly as possible in terms of having a low visual mass when viewed in elevation. Also disturbed landscape resources such as the existing woodland buffer should be restored following the construction phase.		Negligible Impact		Negligible Impact
23. Drainage Reserve (Parallel to San Sham Road)	0Ha	Low	Negligible / Negligible	The proposed track alignment, which would be built on viaduct in this location, would cross this area currently safeguarded for future drainage improvement measures. This would have no direct impact upon the designation of this area, as there would be no loss of land. The Spur Line proposals would have a negligible impact on the perceived future landscape of an area, which will be largely characterised by its engineered form.		Negligible Impact		Negligible Impact		As 22 above.		Negligible Impact		Negligible Impact

Planning Designation / Location	Approx. Area Affected by the Proposals		Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper Phase)	Planning Intention of Zoning / Primary Source of Impact	Impact Significance Threshold (Unmitigated)		Mitigation Measures	Impact Significance Threshold (Mitigated)
Planning Designation / Location	Approx. Area Affected by the Proposals		Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper Phase)	Planning Intention of Zoning / Primary Source of Impact	Con	Oper	Mitigation Measures	Con	Oper
24. Conservation Area (Sam Po Shue)	9.90Ha plus 8.9 Ha for the proposed marshland / reedbed ecological mitigation area and a further 27.1 Ha for the fishpond mitigation area. Total 45.9 Ha		High	Large / Intermediate	The Conservation Area designation is intended to protect the existing natural characteristics of the area, and has particular importance for the Mai Po Nature Reserve which is situated approximately 2500 metres to the west of the Lok Ma Chau Terminus proposals. The section of the conservation area through which the proposed route would pass is characterised by fishponds. The designation of part of this existing fishpond area north of the existing village areas such as Yan Shau Wai and On Lung Tsuen as container back-up uses would lead to degradation in the amenity of this area. The proposed track alignment, which is built on viaduct, would sever the north eastern section of this fishpond area leaving much of the area to the west intact. A comprehensive package of ecological mitigation measures has been formulated to compensate for the potential degradation of this ecological resource. Therefore the main resources for which this area was designated would remain largely intact and any potential losses would be compensated for in the proposed mitigation strategy. Therefore the main resources for which this area was designated would remain largely intact and any potential losses would be compensated for in the proposed mitigation strategy.	Significant adverse	Moderate adverse	The design of the proposed viaduct structure should be graceful in terms of its horizontal alignment and touch the ground as lightly as possible in terms of having a low visual mass when viewed in elevation. Also disturbed landscape resources such as the existing woodland buffer should be restored following the construction phase. The appearance of the proposed Lok Ma Chau Terminus complex should be responsive to its landscape setting. The proposed peripheral landscape planting will partially screen the Terminus structure, fully screen the ground level activities and provide a measure of visual integration into the landscape context	Significant adverse	Moderate adverse
Outline Zoning Plan S/NE-KTN/3 – Kwu Tung South
Generally	0Ha	High to low		Intermediate / Small to Negligible	The planning designations shown on this Outline Zoning Plan would not be directly affected by the Spur Line proposals as they are not crossed by the proposed alignment and so there would be no actual loss of land area. Also potential indirect impacts would be largely mitigated by the level of landscape degradation caused by existing, intervening development such as the Fanling Highway (NTCR) and built development such as Dill’s Corner Camp. The future landscape of the area will be dominated by the high-rise development associated with the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA and so the Spur Line proposals will have a negligible residual impact.	Moderate adverse	Negligible Impact	As 1 above.	Moderate adverse	Negligible Impact

Key: Landscape Sensitivity (Sens): Low, Medium or High

Magnitude of Change (Mag): Negligible, Small, Intermediate and Large

Significance Threshold: Negligible, Slight, Moderate and Significant (adverse or beneficial)

Con – Construction Phase

Oper – Operational

Residual Impacts: Refer to matrix and table in methodology section

Table 12.4: Visually Sensitive Receivers and Visual Impacts (Refer to Figure 12.6 a- b)

The following table presents the predicted unmitigated and mitigated (residual) impacts for the proposed scheme during the construction and operational phases of the project. The mitigated residual impacts are assessed during the design year which for the purposes of this study is taken as being between 10 and 15 years after the schemes opening when the proposed mitigation planting is deemed to have reached a level of maturity, which is sufficient for it to perform the design objectives. It should be noted that, with the exception of the area immediately north of the existing Sheung Shui Station, noise attenuation measures are not considered necessary for this scheme. For the purposes of this assessment low rise was taken as 0-4 floors, medium rise as 5-10 floors and high-rise as 11+ floors.

Visually Sensitive Receiver / Type / Approx Viewing Distance	Existing View	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper phase)	Primary Source of Impact	Impact Significance Threshold (Unmitigated)		Mitigation Measures	Impact Significance Threshold (Mitigated)
	Existing View	Sens	Mag of Change (Con / Oper phase)	Primary Source of Impact	Con	Oper	Mitigation Measures	Con	Oper
1. Choi Po Court High-rise Residential / 250m	Views are open and northwest over a mix of the urban areas of Sheung Shui, the local villages and the River Beas plain towards Tia Mo Shek. Sensitivity reduced due to distance to site	Medium	Intermediate / Intermediate to Small	Construction: Disturbance to landscape particularly vegetated character of area Operational: Introduction of proposed noise barriers adjacent to Sheung Shui station would only be partially visible from this location. East of KCR East Rail (300m long and 5m high) and west (300m long, 5.8m high with a 3.6m cantilever).	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Design of the noise barriers to minimise visual impacts and integrate with the urban context of high-rise residential development and large commercial / storage warehouses.	Moderate to slight adverse	Slight adverse
2. Sheung Shui Sewage Treatment Works Industrial / 200m	Views are east towards the open agricultural areas of the River Beas plain. Sensitivity reduced due to the partial screening by the tree planting adjacent to the KCR East Rail line and the industrial nature of the VSRs	Low	Small / Small to Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape particularly the vegetated character of area Operational: no visible structure.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	None required.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact
3. Other Uses Ongoing light industrial / commercial / 20m	Views are north and west over the agricultural and fishpond areas of the River Beas plain with the cottage areas of Fung Kong and the hillsides of Tai Mo Shek and Tung Kong Shan in the background. The view to the north also contains the KCR line and sewage treatment works.	Low	Intermediate / Small to negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape particularly the vegetated character of area Operational: Introduction of the proposed ventilation building (75m long, 30m wide and 12.7m high) and EAP Structure east of the River Sutlej MDC (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high).	Slight adverse	Slight adverse to negligible impact	The visual appearance of the ventilation building should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its’ visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse to negligible impact
4. Tsung Pak Long Low-rise development / 20m	Views are north and west over the open agricultural areas of the River Beas plain with Tai Mo Shek and the high-rise conurbation of Shenzhen in the background. Several views are partially screened by intermediate trees and vegetation. Sensitivity reduced due to screening and distance.	Medium	Small to negligible / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed EAP structure. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals. Ventilation building (75m long, 30m wide and 12.7m high) and EAP Structure east of the River Sutlej MDC (21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high).	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Slight adverse negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
5. Yin Kong Low-rise development / 400m	Views from the sporadic are north over the open agricultural areas of the River Beas plain with Tai Mo Shek and the high-rise conurbation of Shenzhen in the background. Several views are partially screened by intermediate trees and vegetation. Sensitivity reduced due to screening and distance.	Medium	Small to Negligible / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed EAP structure. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals. Proposed EAP structure on the western bank of the River Beas MDC (21m long, 12m wide and 10.8m high). Adjacent to this structure will be an area of hard standing for car parking and to provide an assembly area	Slight adverse negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Slight adverse negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
6. Fanling Highway East Vehicle travellers / 500m	Views are north over the agricultural fields of the River Beas plain with Tai Mo Shek and the high-rise conurbation of Shenzhen. Sensitivity reduced due to distance, 500m, and screening by roadside vegetation.	Low	Negligible / Negligible	Construction: Visible construction activity confined to the temporary works areas. Operational: Not visible above ground structures.	Slight adverse to negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	Retention of existing trees on the periphery of the development site and hoarding where this is not possible.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
7. Ho Sheung Heung Low-rise residential / 250m	Views are south over the agricultural fields of the River Beas plain towards the villages and cottage areas to the south. Beyond this views are contained by the roadside planting of Fanling Highway. The quality of views is reduced by the presence and partial screening by the open storage areas.	Medium	Small to Negligible / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed EAP structure. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals. Proposed EAP structure on the western bank of the River Beas MDC (21m long, 12m wide and 10.8m high). Adjacent to this structure will be an area of hard standing for car parking and to provide an assembly area	Slight adverse negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Slight adverse negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
8. Fung Kong Low-rise residential / 300m	Views are south over the adjacent agricultural areas towards the cottage areas of Tong Kok and the roadside vegetation of Fanling Highway. Partial screening is given by local tree planting and intermediate buildings reducing sensitivity.	Medium	Negligible / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals. Main visible structure the proposed above ground services cluster 48m long, 29.2m wide and at the highest point some 17.3m high although the main part of the structure is 5.3m high).	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Negligible Impact	Negligible Impact
9. Tung Fong South Low-rise residential and industrial / 30m	Views are south through the cottage area towards the site and comprise a mix of houses, workshops, and storage and tree groups with the natural Ki Lun Shan in the background. Many views are partially screened by the local features, reducing sensitivity.	Medium	Intermediate / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact
10. Tung Fong North Low-rise residential and industrial / 300m	Views are south through the cottage area towards the site and comprise a mix of houses, workshops, and storage and tree groups with the natural Ki Lun Shan in the background. Views are primarily from industrial buildings and partially screened by the local features, reducing sensitivity.	Low	Intermediate / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact
11. Shek Tsai Leng Low-rise residential and industrial / 150m	Views are north through the cottage area including houses, workshops and tree groups with the natural Tit Hang hillside in the background. Views are partially screened by the local features reducing sensitivity.	Low	Intermediate / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact
12. Dill’s Corner Camp Low-rise residential / 50m	Views are north through the cottage area including houses, workshops and tree groups with Tit Hang hillsides in the background. Views are partially screened by the local features reducing sensitivity.	Medium	Large / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact
13. Pak Shek Au East Low-rise residential and industrial / 20m	Views are north through the cottage area including houses, workshops and tree groups with Tit Hang hillsides in the background. Views are partially screened by the local features reducing sensitivity.	Medium	Large / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals. The EAP Structure will be 21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact
14. Pak Shek Au West Low-rise residential and industrial / 20m	Views are south through the cottage area including houses, workshops and tree groups with Ki Lun Shan hillsides in the background. Views are partially screened by the local features reducing sensitivity.	Medium	Large / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals. The EAP Structure will be 21m long, 12.5m wide and 10.8m high.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP structure should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Moderate adverse (VSRS adjacent to the proposed station area and the proposed works area).	Negligible Impact
15. Footpath – Lok Ma Chau East Walking trial / 400m	Views are elevated and south over the cottage area and Fanling Highway corridor to the natural Ki Lun Shan. Although views are open, they are of reduced quality due to the level of development in the valley.	Medium	Small / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP and station entrance structures should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact
16. Footpath – Ki Lun Shan East Walking trial / 500m	Views are elevated and north over the cottage area and Fanling Highway corridor to the natural Lok Ma Chau hillsides. Although views are open, they are of reduced quality due to the level of development in the valley.	Medium	Small / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction of the proposed above ground structures and the excavation required for the proposed station box. Operational: Introduction of EAP structure and station entrances into the rural landscape however this impact will be largely negated through the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	The visual appearance of the EAP and station entrance structures should be responsive to the landscape context. Tree and shrub planting will be introduced around the periphery of the building footprint to soften its visual form and integrate the structure into the existing landscape context.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact
17. Footpath – Lok Ma Chau Central Walking trial / 500m	Views are elevated and south over the cottage areas, Chau Tau village and Fanling Highway corridor and interchange to the natural Ki Lun Shan. Although views are open, they are of reduced quality due to the level of development in the valley.	Medium	Small / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel boring, temporary works sites and the construction of the proposed viaduct section. Operational: Introduction of proposed tunnel portal and viaduct section into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. However from this vantage point the existing landscape is highly disturbed due to the existing development and infrastructure, and there are alternative views available.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	Design of above ground structures and viaduct sections. Compensatory tree and shrub planting along the proposed track alignment where feasible as a visual buffer	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact
18. Chau Tau East Low-rise residential and industrial / 40m	View is south through the local houses, workshops and tree groups with Fanling Highway and Ki Lun Shan in the background. Sensitivity and quality of views is reduced due to presence of and screening by poor features.	Medium	Large to Intermediate / Large to Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel boring, temporary works sites and the construction of the proposed viaduct section. Operational: Introduction of proposed viaduct section and ventilation building into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Ventilation building 15m long, 15m wide and 11m high. Introduction of tunnel portal and approach ramped viaduct ascending to maximum height of approximately 16m above the existing ground level.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Design of above ground structures and viaduct sections. Compensatory tree and shrub planting along the proposed track alignment where feasible as a visual buffer	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse
19. Chau Tau West Low–rise residential / 300m	Views are south and west. To the south they are across the local agricultural fields, local open storage to the Fanling Highway Interchange with Ki Lun Shan in the background. To the west views are similar over the agricultural fields and open storage to San Sham Road. Quality and sensitivity of views is reduced due to the presence of and partial screening by the open storage and local tree groups.	Medium	Large / Large	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel boring, temporary works sites and the construction of the proposed viaduct section. Operational: Introduction of proposed viaduct section and ventilation building into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Viaduct section approximately 16m above the existing ground level.	Significant adverse	Significant adverse	Design of above ground structures and viaduct sections to integrate into the rural setting. Compensatory tree and shrub planting along the proposed track alignment where feasible as a visual buffer	Significant adverse	Significant to moderate adverse
20. Footpath – Ki Lun Shan West Walking trial / 500m	Views are north over the Fanling Highway and along San Sham Road to Lok Ma Chau border crossing and ongoing construction works with the high-rise conurbation in the background. To the east of the road are the mixed areas of open storage and fishponds, to the west the views are open over the local fishponds to Shenzhen. Quality and sensitivity are reduced due to distance and the level of development in the low-lying areas.	Medium	Small / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel boring, temporary works sites and the construction of the proposed viaduct section. Operational: Introduction of proposed tunnel portal and viaduct section into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. However from this vantage point the existing landscape is highly disturbed due to the existing development and infrastructure, and there are alternative views available.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	Design of above ground structures and viaduct sections. Compensatory tree and shrub planting along the proposed track alignment where feasible as a visual buffer	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact
21. Fanling Highway West Vehicle travellers / 300m	Views are north variously over the open stage areas and fishponds at Sam Po Shue, along San Sham Road and the open storage and cottage areas of Chau Tau and Pak Shek Au. Views are also partially screened by the roadside vegetation.	Low	Small / Small to Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel boring, temporary works sites and the construction of the proposed viaduct section. Disturbance to vegetation and loss of tree groups as visual buffer Operational: Introduction of proposed viaduct section into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	Design of above ground structures and viaduct sections. Compensatory tree and shrub planting along the proposed track alignment where feasible as a visual buffer	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact
22. Tung Chan Wai and San Lung Tsuen Low-rise residential / 1600m	Views are north over the fishponds of Sam Po Shue towards San Sham Road, the border crossing and the high-ride conurbation of Shenzhen. Sensitivity of views to northwest reduced due to presence of the road and border crossing. Sensitivity of views to northern part of site reduced due to distance.	Medium	Intermediate / Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the proposed viaduct section and Lok Ma Chau Terminus complex. Disturbance to vegetation and loss of tree groups as visual buffer Operational: Introduction of proposed viaduct section and Terminus complex into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Although the station complex would be viewed against the high-rise urban background of Shenzhen.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Design of Terminus and viaduct structures to be responsive to existing rural context. Tree and shrub planting on the periphery of the Terminus complex to soften the visual form of the structure and screen low-level activities.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse
23. Pun Uk Tsuen Low-rise residential / 450m	Views are south and west over the local agricultural field’s open storage to San Sham Road with local tree groups. Sensitivity of views is reduced due to the poor quality of the feature and partial screening by adjacent storage and woodland strips.	Medium	Large / Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel boring, temporary works sites and the construction of the proposed viaduct section. Operational: Introduction of proposed viaduct section and ventilation building into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Widening of Lok Ma Chau Road (proposed access road for EVA and station access).	Significant adverse	Significant to moderate adverse	Design of above ground structures and viaduct sections to integrate into the rural setting. Compensatory tree and shrub planting along the proposed track alignment where feasible as a visual buffer. Restoration of roadside landscape along Lok Ma Chau Road.	Significant adverse	Significant to moderate adverse
24. Footpath and Viewpoint – Lok Ma Chau Viewpoint / 500m	Views are east over the local cottage areas, fishpond and border crossing and ongoing construction works, to the open areas of Sam Po Shue to Mai Po. The viewpoint is a local feature, however, the level of disturbance in views reduces sensitivity.	Medium	Intermediate / Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the proposed viaduct section and Lok Ma Chau Terminus complex. Disturbance to vegetation and loss of tree groups as visual buffer Operational: Introduction of proposed viaduct section and Terminus complex into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Although the viaduct would be seen against the backdrop of the Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing and the Terminus against the high-rise urban background of Shenzhen. Widening of Lok Ma Chau Road (proposed access road for EVA and station access).	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Design of Terminus and viaduct structures to be responsive to existing rural context. Tree and shrub planting on the periphery of the Terminus complex to soften the visual form of the structure and screen low-level activities. Restoration of roadside landscape along Lok Ma Chau Road.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse
25. Lok Ma Chau Low-rise residential / 600m	Views are east over the local fishponds and agricultural fields towards the Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing and ongoing construction works. Sensitivity reduced due to distance.	Medium	Large to Intermediate / Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the proposed viaduct section and Lok Ma Chau Terminus complex. Disturbance to vegetation and loss of tree groups as visual buffer Operational: Introduction of proposed viaduct section (ranging from 16 to 20m above the existing ground level) and Terminus complex (approximately 27m high) into the existing landscape context. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Although the viaduct would be seen against the backdrop of the Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing and the Terminus against the high-rise urban background of Shenzhen. Widening of Lok Ma Chau Road (proposed access road for EVA and station access).	Significant to moderate adverse	Significant to moderate adverse	Design of Terminus and viaduct structures to be responsive to existing rural context. Tree and shrub planting on the periphery of the Terminus complex to soften the visual form of the structure and screen low-level activities. Re-instatement of wetlands elsewhere on site Restoration of roadside landscape along Lok Ma Chau Road.	Significant to moderate adverse	Moderate adverse
26. Ha Wan Tsuen Low-rise residential / 200m	Views are east and south over local fishponds to the Border Crossing and ongoing construction works.	Medium	Intermediate / Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the proposed viaduct section. Disturbance to fishponds, vegetation and loss of tree groups as visual buffer Operational: Introduction of viaduct (ranging from 16 to 20m above the existing ground level) as a major feature of views. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Alternative views available. Introduction of proposed access road for EVA and station access road through area currently characterised by fishponds.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Re-instatement of planting below viaduct where appropriate Design of viaduct to integrate with rural context. Tree planting lining the proposed access road for EVA and station access road.	Moderate adverse	Moderate adverse
27. San Sham Road and Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing Vehicle travellers / 200m	Views are to the east and west. To the east the views are partially screened and over the local fishpond and open storage to Lok Ma Chau hillsides. To the west the views are over the fishponds of Sam Po Shue with Shenzhen in the background.	Low	Small / Small	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the proposed viaduct section. Disturbance to vegetation and loss of tree groups as visual buffer Operational: Introduction of viaduct (ranging in height from 16 to 20m above the existing ground level) as a major feature of views. The movement of trains would also lead to adverse visual impact. Alternative views available.	Slight adverse	Slight adverse	Compensatory planting to soften viaduct form Design of viaduct to integrate with rural context	Slight adverse	Slight adverse
28. KCR East Rail Train passengers / 20m	Views are west over the agricultural fields and fishponds of the River Beas plain and along the valley with the local natural hillsides to the north and south.	Low	Intermediate / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the proposed tunnel portal with approach track and noise barriers at Sheung Shui Station. Disturbance to vegetation and loss of tree groups as visual buffer Operational: Introduction of the noise barriers and the tunnel portal as a major feature of views. Although the existing view is characterised by the structure associated with the existing East Rail track.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact	Compensatory tree and shrub planting where possible. Design of new structures including noise barriers to be responsive to the existing landscape context.	Slight adverse	Negligible Impact
29. Europa Gardens Medium–rise residential / 500m	Views to the north and east are characterised by the existing Fanling Highway with the cottage areas extending to Long Valley beyond it. The highway is lined with existing tree planting and there is a framework of mature trees within the cottage areas to the north. Views extend to the ridgeline extending east from Lok Ma Chau.	Low	Small / Negligible	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel boring, temporary works sites and the construction of the proposed tunnel section above ground structure. However existing view is degraded to an extent due to the proximity of the NTCR. Operational: no visible structure from this location due to the intervening vegetation and in the future the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA.	Slight adverse to Negligible	Negligible impact	Restoration of works areas however the implementation of the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA proposals will negate any residual impacts arsing from the Spur Line proposals.	Slight adverse to Negligible	Negligible impact
30. Choi Ping House High – rise residential / 150m	The upper storeys of this building enjoy commanding views over the railway tracks although at lower levels the mature tree planting lining Choi Yuen Road screens much of the available views. Views to the north east where available are characterised by the a landscape of high rise residential property in the background, large commercial premises in the middle ground and the existing KCR East Rail with associated structures in the foreground. The mature trees lining San Wan Road provide further greenery in a view, which is otherwise of hard urban landscape.	Medium to low	Intermediate / Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel approach and the proposed Construction activity associated with the noise barriers. However existing view is degraded to an extent due to the proximity of the existing infrastructure. Operational: Introduction of proposed noise barriers as new linear elements within the urban landscape. East of KCR East Rail (300m long and 5m high) and west (300m long, 5.6m high with a 3.6m cantilever).	Moderate adverse	Slight adverse	Reinstatement of planting along trackside where lost and as additional landscape buffer. The design of noise barriers to be responsive to the existing landscape and minimise impacts on the existing landscape character.	Moderate adverse	Slight adverse
31. 134 to 140 San Fung Road Medium – rise commercial / 100m	Views to the south west are at an acute angle and restricted by the existing mature trees lining San Wan Road although there are filtered views of the existing KCR track to Lo Wu and of the high rise development of Choi Yuen Estate beyond.	Medium to low	Large / Intermediate	Construction: Disturbance to the landscape due to the construction activity associated with the tunnel approach and the proposed Construction activity associated with the noise barriers. However existing view is degraded to an extent due to the proximity of the existing infrastructure. Loss of existing roadside trees. Operational: Introduction of proposed noise barriers as new linear elements within the urban landscape. East of KCR East Rail (300m long and 5m high) and west (300m long, 5.8m high with a 3.6m cantilever).	Significant to moderate adverse	Moderate adverse	Reinstatement of planting along trackside where possible and as additional landscape buffer. The design of noise barriers to be responsive to the existing landscape and minimise impacts on the existing landscape character.	Significant to moderate adverse	Moderate adverse
32. High Rise Residential Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (north of the Spur Line) High-rise residential / 30m	Views to the south will be dominated by the proposed high-rise development associated with the NDA with the natural hill slopes of the Kai Kung Leng forming a green backdrop. There will also be filtered views of the New Territories Circular Road (Fanling Highway).	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	Construction: no activity visible as the spur proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. Operational: Introduction of proposed station entrance and EAP above ground structures.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	The Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. With the exception of the mitigation measures proposed for the above ground structures and the restoration of areas disturbed due to the construction phase activity no landscape measures are proposed for the railway reserve above the tunnel section.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
33. Low-rise Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (north of the Spur Line) Low and medium-rise business use and Government / Institutional Uses / 30m	Views to the south will be dominated by the proposed high-rise development associated with the NDA with the natural hill slopes of the Kai Kung Leng forming a green backdrop. Views of the New Territories Circular Road will be screened by the proposed development.	Medium to low	Negligible / Small to negligible	Construction: no activity visible as the spur proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. Operational: Introduction of proposed station entrance and EAP above ground structures. Main visible structure the proposed above ground services cluster 48m long, 29.2m wide and at the highest point some 17.3m high although the main part of the structure is 5.3m high).	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	The Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. With the exception of the mitigation measures proposed for the above ground structures and the restoration of areas disturbed due to the construction phase activity no landscape measures are proposed for the railway reserve above the tunnel section.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
34. High-rise Residential Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (south of the Spur Line) High-rise residential / 30m	Views to the south will be dominated by the proposed high-rise development associated with the NDA with the natural hill slopes of the Fung Kong Shan forming a green backdrop.	High	Negligible / Small to negligible	Construction: no activity visible as the spur proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. Operational: Introduction of proposed station entrance and EAP above ground structures. Main visible structure the proposed above ground services cluster 48m long, 29.2m wide and at the highest point some 17.3m high although the main part of the structure is 5.3m high).	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	The Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. With the exception of the mitigation measures proposed for the above ground structures and the restoration of areas disturbed due to the construction phase activity no landscape measures are proposed for the railway reserve above the tunnel section.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible
35. Low-rise Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (south of the Spur Line) Low-rise business use areas / 30m	Views to the north will be dominated by the proposed high rise development associated with the NDA with the natural hill slopes of Fung Kong Shan forming a green backdrop.	Low	Negligible / Small to negligible	Construction: no activity visible as the spur proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. Operational: Introduction of proposed station entrance and EAP above ground structures. Main visible structure the proposed above ground services cluster 48m long, 29.2m wide and at the highest point some 17.3m high although the main part of the structure is 5.3m high).	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible	The Spur Line proposals will be completed prior to the first population intake. With the exception of the mitigation measures proposed for the above ground structures and the restoration of areas disturbed due to the construction phase activity no landscape measures are proposed for the railway reserve above the tunnel section.	Negligible Impact	Slight adverse to negligible

Key: Landscape Sensitivity (Sens): Low, Medium or High

Magnitude of Change: Negligible, Small, Intermediate or Large

Significance Threshold: Negligible, Slight, Moderate or Significant (adverse or beneficial)

Impacts: Con: Construction phase impacts

Oper: Operational phase impacts

Note: The viewing distance is measured from the façade of the building or location that forms the Visually Sensitive Receiver to nearest visible part of the proposed scheme.

12.8 Consultation

12.8.1 The original consultation exercise completed in September 2000 under the EIAO for the previous EIA Report gave rise to no specific comments relating to the landscape and visual aspects of the Spur Line proposals. The new scheme proposals utilising the tunnel section have also formed part of an ongoing consultation exercise with organisations such as World Wide Fund for Nature, Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, Conservancy Association and Friends of the Earth in addition to the relevant statutory and advisory bodies, however no adverse comments have been received relating to the landscape and visual aspects of the project.

12.9 Cumulative Impacts

12.9.1 In a number of locations along the Spur Line alignment, current or future works (by project proponents) will occur before the construction of the Spur Line. These include the expansion of the Lok Ma Chau Boundary Crossing and the construction of the Fanling, Sheung Shui and Hinterland Drainage Channels. The San Tin Eastern Drainage Channel construction will start at a similar time to the commencement of construction of the Spur Line, whilst the proposed San Tin Western Drainage Channel would (if approved) probably also overlap with the Spur Line construction programme. All of these projects will result in landscape and visual impacts including the degradation of landscape character and visual amenity, and the loss of landscape resources.

12.9.2 Mitigation measures to address landscape and visual impacts have been incorporated into the design of each of the approved projects. The resulting changes to the existing landscape character, landscape resources and visual amenity have been taken into account in the baseline assessment. Cumulative impacts from these projects are therefore taken into account through their inclusion in the baseline conditions for the Spur Line EIA. A summary of the likely implementation programme for the works to be carried out in the area is shown below.

Table 12.5: Outline Implementation Programmes for Concurrent Projects

Project	Period of Works
Lok Ma Chau Boundary Crossing	May 1999 - 2003
Shan Chun River Training Phase III	2001 - 2004
San Tin Eastern Main Drainage Channel	September 2002 - 2005
Fanling, Sheung Shui and Hinterland Main Drainage Channels (Long Valley area)	June 1999 - 2001 (some elements delayed)

12.9.3 This indicates that there will be some overlap between the Spur Line and other projects. This will be primarily in the area of San Tin Eastern Drainage Channel, during construction works. Impacts should be minimised through adherence to good site management practices that will minimise adverse landscape and visual impacts.

Completed Projects with Mitigation Measures which may be affected by the Spur Line Proposals

12.9.4 The Lok Ma Chau Boundary Crossing project involves the establishment of new tree and shrub planting to screen the proposals from adjacent VSRs and provide a measure of integration into the existing landscape context. The Spur Line proposals will lead to a small loss (less than 0.1 Ha) of this planting area due to the construction of the proposed viaduct section over the crossing. However the proposed mitigation landscape measures will restore this planting where possible and thus obviate any long-term adverse impacts.

Concurrent Projects with Potential for Cumulative Impacts

12.9.5 Table 12.6 lists major projects that will be conducted concurrently with the construction of the Spur Line. Each of these projects will have a potential adverse impact on the landscape and visual amenity within the Study Area. The locations of these projects in relation to the Spur Line Alignment are shown on Figure 2.3. Projects of particular significance, due to their proximity to the proposed Lok Ma Chau Terminus include the construction of the San Tin Eastern Main Drainage Channel, and expansion of the Lok Ma Chau Boundary Crossing.

12.9.6 The San Tin Eastern Main Drainage Channel which will be constructed to the west of the Lok Ma Chau Boundary Crossing will be crossed by the elevated section of the Spur Line. These proposals will have an adverse impact on the existing landscape of the fishpond area through the introduction of an engineered channel. The section of the channel affected will have grasscrete banks and include an adjoining area of wetland to be provided in mitigation for the predicted ecological impacts of the proposals. Direct landscape and visual impacts to these proposals arising from the Spur Line at its crossing point will be negligible with the formation of one or possibly two columns for the viaduct, resulting in direct loss of grasscrete bank and/or wetland of 25-50 square metres. The cumulative impact of these concurrent proposals will lead to a further degradation of the landscape character of the F2 Lok Ma Chau and F3 Sam So Shue fishpond areas.

Possible Future Projects with Potential for Cumulative Impacts

12.9.7 Subsequent projects should avoid direct adverse impacts on mitigation areas that are already designated through this or any other project. This applies, in particular, to the proposed San Tin Western Drainage Channel. Should a decision be made to proceed with this project, its’ alignment must be designed so that they have no adverse impact on the landscape mitigation proposals for the Spur Line and / or compensate for any direct or indirect adverse effects.

Table 12.6: Summary of Major Committed Projects Adjacent to the Spur Line

Project Description	Potential Impacts	Commencement Date	Completion Date
Shan Chun River Training Phase III involves the realignment of the Shan Chun River to improve drainage efficiency and prevent flooding.	Significant and permanent adverse landscape and visual impacts. This is largely due to the scale of the proposals, their inability to relate to the existing landscape character, scale and pattern, and the lack of landscape and visual impact mitigation measures.	Mid 2001	Late 2004
San Tin Eastern Main Drainage Channels – drainage improvement works to alleviate flooding in the San Tin area and provide flood storage ponds for Chau Tau and Pun Uk Tsuen.	Significant and permanent adverse landscape and visual impacts. This is largely due to the scale of the proposals, their inability to relate to the existing landscape character, scale and pattern, and the lack of landscape and visual impact mitigation measures.	September 2002	2005
Fanling, Sheung Shui & Hinterland Main Drainage Channels – drainage improvement works to alleviate flooding in the Fanling, Sheung Shui & Hinterland areas.	Significant and permanent adverse landscape and visual impacts. This is largely due to the scale of the proposals, their inability to relate to the existing landscape character, scale and pattern, and the lack of landscape and visual impact mitigation measures.	1999	2001
Planning & Development Study on Northeast New Territories involves examination of the scope and feasibility of accommodating strategic growth development needs in the NENT.	The NENT Study that includes the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA and Fanling Bypass will also have a considerable impact on the landscape character and visual amenity of the Study Area including indirect impacts on the Long Valley area. The NDA will result in significant and permanent adverse landscape and visual impacts to the central section of the Study Area and so largely negate predicted impact of the above ground structures associated with the proposed tunnel in this part of the Study Area.	(Programme not yet confirmed)	-
Lok Ma Chau Control Point Expansion Project – kiosk expansion and works to improve vehicle and passenger throughput and circulation.	Significant and permanent adverse landscape and visual impacts. This is largely due to the scale of the proposals, their inability to relate to the existing landscape character, scale and pattern, and the lack of landscape and visual impact mitigation measures.	Mid 1999	2003

12.10 Opportunities for Mitigation Measures

12.10.1 The landscape mitigation measures are described in this report so to a level of detail which both demonstrates their ability to alleviate the potential landscape and visual impacts identified in the assessment and also to allow the proposals to be carried forward during the detailed design stage. More detailed landscape proposals will be developed during the completion of the Design and Construction phase of this project following the proposed detailed tree survey.

12.10.2 Within this report the mitigation has been described for broad areas of similarity cross referenced to the appropriate figures. Figures 12.7a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o show the proposed landscape mitigation measures. It is recommended that the Environmental, Monitoring and Audit Requirements (EM&A) for landscape and visual resources described in Chapter 15 of this report is undertaken during both the construction and operational phases of the project.

Standards, Legislation and Guidelines

12.10.3 The landscape and visual mitigation design aspects of this project shall be undertaken in accordance with the following guidelines:

· Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines, particularly Chapter 4;

· Planning Environment and Lands Branch Technical Circular No. 3/94 (WBTC No.24/94, Tree Preservation);

· Management & Maintenance of both Natural Vegetation & Landscape Works (Works Branch), WBTC No. 18/94;

· Management & Maintenance of Landscape Works along Public Roads. Aug 1996 (HyD. Guidance Notes), LU/GN/001;

· Visibility of Directional Signs, HyDTC 6/98;

· Control of Visual Impact of Slopes (Works Branch), WBTC 25/93;

· Improvement to the Appearance of Slopes (Works Branch), WBTC no. 17/2000;

· Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment and Bio-engineering for Manmade Slopes and Retaining Walls (GEO Publication No. 1/2000)

· KCRC West Rail Design Guidelines;

· The Advisory Committee on the Appearance of Bridges and Associated Structures (ACABAS), WBTC No. 19/98;

· Allocation of Space for Urban Street Trees (Works Branch), WBTC; and,

· Appearance of Structures. Lands and Works Branch Technical Circular No. 11/89.

Primary Mitigation Measures

12.10.4 In accordance with the EIAO TM, the hierarchy for landscape and visual impact mitigation is first avoidance of impact, then minimisation of impact and finally compensation of impact. The Spur Line alignment has been selected based on engineering, operational safety and environmental grounds. The rationale for the combination of a viaduct in the western section and a bored tunnel in the eastern section has been explained in Chapter 2 of this report. Various options of the alignment were examined in detail from the environmental point of view, in the PPFS, the previous EIA study and were also considered by the Appeal Board.

12.10.5 In terms of the avoidance and minimisation of impact to the existing landscape and visual amenity, the Spur Line alignment seeks to fulfil the following objectives:

· Minimisation of the cumulative impact, as far as possible, to the landscape through for example the selection of an alignment, which is adjacent in the western section to an existing transport corridor, characterised by the Fanling Highway (NTCR) and the Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing. In this area the current alignment has been fine tuned for engineering reasons and so is in closer proximity to the existing infrastructure;

· Protection of areas of high landscape quality such as Long Valley through the utilisation of the proposed tunnel section;

· Maintenance of the unique landscape character of the Study Area as a resource for the HK SAR, this is apparent in the proposed mitigation measures for the LMC Terminus whereby impacts to the large part of the existing fishpond area have been avoided through the location of the complex on the northern periphery of the area contiguous to the existing Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing; and,

· Rehabilitation of existing landscapes following the completion of the construction phase of the project, this will be apparent in the restoration of the fishpond areas below the proposed viaduct section in the western section of the alignment and the restoration of temporary works areas.

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

Secondary Mitigation Measures

12.10.7 A series of mitigation measures designed to alleviate impact and where possible compensate for loss of landscape resources for the construction and operational phases of the project are described below.

Construction Phase

Preservation of Existing Vegetation

12.10.8 An important mitigation for both the landscape and visual impacts is the retention of existing planting, particularly trees. The design of the project has considered the avoidance of disturbance to the existing trees as far as is practicable.

12.10.9 A full tree survey is currently being undertaken and this will be submitted for approval to the relevant government departments in accordance with Planning Environment and Lands Branch Technical Circular No 3/94 (WBTC 24/94, Tree Preservation). Full details of the existing of the existing trees on site will be given in the Tree Survey Report and Tree Felling Application. This document also includes recommendations for, where appropriate, their retention in situ, transplantation to a new location and felling. The fundamental tenet of this study is that trees will be retained, where possible, with particular regard given to the retention of tree groups. Where it is not possible to retain trees due to the construction of the Spur Line proposals the trees have been considered for their suitability for transplanting. Trees identified for retention will be adequately protected during the construction phase. Trees identified for retention within the project limit would be protected during the works with these protection measures being written into the contract documents. These measures for the protection of existing trees will be described in detail in the tree survey report Appendix 1: Particular Specification for Tree Protection, Tree Pruning and Tree Transplanting and includes the following provisions:

· The use of sturdy protective fencing located at the edge of the tree canopy (100mm outside the crown spread) and not around the trunk. The fencing, which will be in accordance with the Highways Department’s standard drawings numbered H6120, and will be erected prior to the commencement of the construction phase operations;

· prohibition of the storage of materials, the movement of construction vehicles, refuelling and the washing of equipment including concrete mixers beneath the tree canopy;

· the watering of existing vegetation particularly during periods of excavation when the water table beneath the existing vegetation is lowered;

· the rectification and repair of damaged vegetation to it’s original condition prior to the commencement of the works;

· the specifications for the treatment of trees identified for transplantation should include the following:

· treatments prior to uplifting operations including crown and root pruning;

· treatments during lifting operations where the specification should include details of root cutting and root ball treatment;

· the preparation of recipient sites;

· the timing and methods of planting and aftercare of the transplanted trees, and;

· the preparation of photographic records for existing retained and transplanted trees throughout the establishment period to monitor their health.

12.10.10 The tree transplanting and planting works would be implemented by approved Landscape Contractors and inspected and approved on site by a qualified Landscape Architect or Aboriculturalist. A tree protection and transplanting specification based on the provisions of the tree survey report will be included within the contract documents. The extent of the works area will be regularly checked during the construction phase to avoid trespass onto areas outside the works area and so minimise damage to existing trees and woodland.

Temporary Works Areas

12.10.11 A number of locations have been identified for temporary works areas (refer to Figure 12.7a–b), these include an area west of the intersection of San Wan Road and Po Shek Wu Road in Sheung Shui, a section of the former military base Dill’s Corner Camp and an south of Chau Tau. The temporary works area also include the proposed Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) launching shaft to the east of the River Sutlej MDC and the TBM extraction shaft to the south of Chau Tau, and will include facilities for the extraction of excavated materials including conveyor belt system. These sites are contiguous to the proposed track alignment. Construction site controls would be enforced where possible to ensure that the landscape and visual impacts arising from the construction phase activities are minimised, these are as follows:

· Temporary works area would be screened using hoarding and existing vegetation would be retained;

· The careful design of site lighting to prevent light spillage;

· Structures such as offices should be painted in muted and recessive colours;

· Hydro seeding should be applied to temporary works areas, and;

· Temporary construction sites shall be restored to standards accepted by the concerned government departments, or better than the original condition.

Hoarding

12.10.12 A temporary hoarding would be erected along the edge of the works to screen the construction operations from the local VSRs. However, as parts of the Spur Line are elevated on viaduct sections, hoarding may not be a practicable solution in all locations Those locations where hoarding would be appropriate include the following:

· the area north of Sheung Shui Station where hoarding would screen the works area in low level views open to pedestrians and vehicular travellers;

· the boundary of the temporary works areas identified above;

· the central section of the route alignment adjacent to Chau Tau, which is characterised by cottage areas and villages. The hoarding would screen low-level views of the construction activity from the local VSRs; and,

· the project limit for the proposed widening of Lok Ma Chau Road to screen low-level views from adjacent residential development.

12.10.13 Further locations for hoarding will be identified during the detailed design stage of the project when the full detail of the construction activity is known.

Topsoils

12.10.14 The works will result in disturbance to extensive areas of topsoil. This topsoil, if following standard soil horticultural testing techniques is found to be worthy of retention, should be stockpiled to a maximum height of 2 metres. The stock piled topsoil should be either temporarily vegetated with hydroseeded grass during the construction phase and turned over on a regular basis to avoid degradation of the organic material. This material should be re-used following the completion of the main rail related construction phase activities. Alternatively, if this is not practicable, it should be considered for use elsewhere, including other projects. Excavated material from the pond bunds should be used as topsoil, if suitable as a growing medium, for the establishment or re-instatement of vegetation.

Operational Phase (after construction)

Landscape Mitigation Measures including Compensatory Planting Proposals

12.10.15 The compensatory planting proposals would be considered in greater detail during the later stage of the project. At this stage the landscape mitigation measures for the proposed scheme have been considered in four sections which are as follows:

North of Sheung Shui Station (refer to Figure 12.7a, b, c, d)

12.10.16 The limited area available due to the proximity of existing development would restrict the scope for landscape mitigation beyond the reprovision of paved areas and the treatment of the proposed noise barriers to the east of the existing KCRC East Rail alignment as described below. However the existing tree planting lining San Wan Road would be reprovisioned where space allows.

Tunnel Section (refer to Figure 12.7d, e, f, g, h, i)

12.10.17 The proposed scheme would be constructed in tunnel from the existing KCR East Rail to the area south of the village of Chau Tau. For this section of the alignment there would be generally no visible structure above ground with the exception of the proposed EAP structures, ventilation buildings and the station entrances in the future Kwu Tung North NDA. Therefore the important landscape of the Long Valley area would be left intact.

12.10.18 These elements of the scheme would comprise as has been described above low-rise structures ranging in height up to 10.8m for the EAP Structures, 12.7m for the ventilation buildings and 17.3m for the proposed above ground service cluster associated with the proposed Kwu Tung Station. The landscape mitigation will follow a dual approach. The first will be through the careful design of the form and finishes to the proposed structures. This will extend to the colour of the main buildings, which should match the tonal qualities of the landscape context and through the use of colour massing to break up the visual form of the structure. This massing may involve the use of blocks of colour or tone, which provide a subtle variation and reduce the apparent visual mass of the structure. Although generalisations are unwise earth colours with warm tones usually fit in to the landscape best. The surface treatment of the proposed structures is also important and reflective surfaces should be avoided.

12.10.19 The second approach to the mitigation of these structures should be through the introduction of woodland buffer planting on peripheries of the gazetted areas for each element forming where possible a visual continuum with the existing woodland structure of the Study Area.

Western Viaduct Section (refer to Figure 12.7j, k, l, m, n)

12.10.20 In general this section would be viaduct over an existing area of fishponds. These fishponds would be reinstated below the viaduct. Where planting is required it would be concentrated on disturbed soil areas or areas adjacent to the bases of the viaduct columns and would comprise woodland and shrub planting, particularly adjacent Chau Tau. The selection of tree and shrub those species selection would include species native to Hong Kong and would provide aesthetic interest. The loss of existing vegetation would be a primary source of both the landscape and visual impacts. The following principles would be considered during the design of these planting areas:

· A corridor would be identified separate from the utility corridors which impedes landscape works;

· Where appropriate, woodland planting would be established, with species types reflecting those affected combined with species suitable for screening the proposed scheme in views from future VSRs. The long-term objective would be to create native woodland. The immediate objective of the planting on the disturbed areas would be to create a fast vegetative cover for quick visual effect. The nurse species would be selectively felled following the successful establishment of the target indigenous species and to allow for native species to become dominant in the long term;

· A higher proportion of ornamental species would be introduced into areas adjacent to residential developments or along some sections of the alignment for visual effect; and,

· The planting would be designed to avoid emphasising the engineered form and linearity of the proposed track alignment. This would be achieved using a number of methods such as varying the type and height of vegetation along the trackside.

Emergency Vehicle Access and General Vehicular Access Road to the Lok Ma Chau Station Complex (refer to Figure 12.7 l, m, n, o)

12.10.21 The eastern part of this Emergency Access Road (EVA) would involve the widening of the existing single lane Lok Ma Chau Road resulting in the loss of an existing row of mature trees which currently line the road. As has been described above a full tree survey will be carried out in accordance with WBTC 24/94. These trees would be retained, where possible. However, where this is not feasible the suitability of these trees for transplantation would be considered. Trees identified for retention will be adequately protected during the works as has been described above, this will be detailed in the Tree Survey Report. The roadside trees would be replaced to reproduce and enhance the landscape character of the existing roadside landscape.

12.10.22 The western section of the EVA and general access road would involve the widening of the existing carriageway into an area of fishponds. These fishpond areas would be restored following the construction phase. Roadside planting would include grass species to stabilise the embankment sides and occasional specimen trees to mirror the existing landscape character of the area through which the access road would pass.

Lok Ma Chau Terminus Complex (refer to Figure 12.7o)

12.10.23 The landscape associated with the station complex would fall into two main categories, the first a landscape framework of woodland planting which would form the landscape and visual context into which the built development would fit, the second would compliment the building and provide a signature landscape as a gateway to Hong Kong. Detailed proposals for the station complex would be formulated during the detailed design stage of the project.

12.10.24 Woodland planting using native species would be established on the boundary of the proposed station complex to soften the built form, visually integrate the development into the landscape of this existing rural setting and provide a buffer or transitional zone between the proposed development and the proposed ecological mitigation areas. The character of this landscape treatment would be one that provides a naturalistic, soft form, which is responsive to the attributes of a landscape of fishpond areas and small clumps of trees. The ecological impact assessment has identified several areas adjacent to the station as potential sites for wetland mitigation including marsh and reedbed areas (refer to the Ecology Chapter 4 for details). A co-ordinated approach has been undertaken between the ecology and landscape teams to produce a comprehensive package of mitigation measures that fulfil both the ecological, and landscape and visual imperatives.

12.10.25 The proposed tree and shrub planting design would be guided by the principles described under the proposed soft landscape mitigation for the central section of the proposed scheme.

12.10.26 The more formal landscape treatment of the areas immediately adjacent to the station complex, largely visually contained by the peripheral woodland planting, would be more contemporary in nature reflecting the modernity of the proposed station complex. This concept would be realised through the contemporary design and use of both hard and soft landscape elements providing a gateway for travellers to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The species selection for the design of this area would perform a number of roles including contributing to the passenger landscape milieu in an aesthetic sense, the formation and containment of space, the highlight and framing of the architectural features or focal points of the main station buildings and the screening of ancillary structures.

Tree Planting Strategy

12.10.27 The landscape mitigation described above would incorporate the proposals to be described in Chapter 2 of the Tree Survey Report (currently being prepared), which contains compensatory tree planting proposals for the overall Spur Line scheme. These proposals are based on the findings of this report and those of the Tree Survey Report. The strategy proposes that in order to compensate for the large number of trees lost as a result of the railway construction, the opportunities for tree planting should be maximised wherever possible. This dense woodland planting would find a resonance in the existing visually enclosed and well vegetated landscape of the central section of the Study Area. .

12.10.28 The tree planting strategy also gives guidance on the planting of trees in close proximity to structures such as the viaducts. It proposes that two height bands are used, below 6 metres in height for locations in close proximity to the viaducts and trees above 6 metres in height for other locations. The proposals list species appropriate for both bands including species with narrow crowns suitable for planting in close proximity to the viaduct structures.

12.10.29 The tree planting proposals include some 4 hectares of compensatory tree planting within the project limit for the Spur Line would compensate for the loss of specimen trees, small woodland copses and woodlands resulting from the scheme. This equates to approximately 30,000 new trees based on the planting of whips at 1.5 m centres within the Gazzetal Boundary (this figure assumes the implementation of the mitigation measures described above and presented as Figures 12.7a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o). The final density of the proposed tree planting areas would be significantly lower than the number described above due to the thinning of the stand in order to allow the growth to maturity of the woodland trees. However if the target of a mature woodland stand is to be achieved the final density should be around 5 - 10 metre centres (approximately 4,500 to 9,000 trees). This compares favourably with the report’s assertion that some 1,800 trees would be felled or transplanted due to the Spur Line proposals. Following the successful establishment of newly planted trees and assuming that the transplanted trees are retained on site, the project’s Gazettal Boundary will contain between 5,900 and 10,400 trees.

Major Engineering Structures

12.10.30 Particular attention would be given to the design, appearance and construction methods of the structures which form part of these proposals, these would include the following:

· the noise barriers north of Sheung Shui;

· the viaduct sections which would form the main visible structures within the proposed scheme;

· the ventilation buildings to the west of Sheung Shui and south of Chau Tau, the EAP structures located west of the River Beas, north of Dill’s Corner Camp, north of Lok Ma Chau transport interchange on Fanling Highway and north of the Lok Ma Chau Control point; and,

· the retaining structures which would be located along the proposed alignment particularly along the approaches to the tunnel portals.

12.10.31 The landscape consultants have worked in unison with the engineers on the aesthetic aspects of the structures and their relationship with the landscape. The major engineering structures will be submitted to ACABAS for their comment and advice. This will then inform the design and visual appearance of the proposed structures in the detailed design phase of the project. However overall the designs would consider the following principles:

· The structures would aim to “touch” the ground as lightly as possible in order to minimise disturbance to the existing landscape and vegetation below the structures. This would be achieved by designing slender, rounded columns spaced the maximum distance apart. The viaducts would be constructed using pre-cast methods and launched from columns rather than scaffolding. The viaduct should be designed to achieve where appropriate a graceful, curving alignment;

· Landform and vegetation in areas disturbed by construction works would be reinstated to blend with the existing landscape patterns or as discussed above;

· Wherever light levels, the water regime and the requirements of the ecological mitigation measures permit, vegetation would be reinstated below the structures. Irrigation may be required in some locations and hard landscape solutions considered where the clearance is low. Planting would be used wherever possible to minimise the apparent height of structures and to soften their appearance in medium and long distance views;

· The design of the proposed structures should avoid unnecessary visual clutter, this would be achieved through the co-ordination of the various engineering disciplines involved to arrive at innovative design solutions;

· Fair faced concrete would not be used for parapets to minimise glare from the structure and to avoid the visually detracting effect of staining; and,

· Drainage structures would where possible be concealed within the structure of the proposed viaducts.

Noise Mitigation Structures

12.10.32 Under the current proposals the requirement for noise barriers would be limited to an area north of Sheung Shui station. An approximately 300 m long and 5 m high noise barrier on the eastern side of the existing KCR East Rail alignment would stretch from the existing station complex north. A 300 m long, 5.8 m vertical noise barrier with 3.6 m cantilever at 60 degrees would be constructed on the western side of the KCR East Rail alignment. The design of these structures would be responsive to the landscape through which the track would pass which is essentially an urban environment characterised by high-rise residential property and commercial / warehouse premises. The barriers would also pick up on existing design themes in the station complex to ensure that the new structure would be visually compatible with existing ones.

12.10.33 The design criteria for the noise mitigation structures installed along the trackside should not be limited to the functional requirements of mitigating train noise. It should also include a requirement that these structures make a positive contribution to the urban landscape character of this area and by doing so improve the perceived landscape quality of the area. These barriers would be visible from some VSRs identified in the study.

12.10.34 The design criteria should seek to:

· Promote the innovative use of materials, such as Plexiglas, fibreglass, reinforced concrete etc, whilst remaining aware of the design life span of each of the elements incorporated in the design;

· Reduce the visual effect of the structure through the use of form, materials, textures colours and tones;

· Reflect the chromatic context of the surrounding urban landscape; and,

· Utilise materials, which are non-reflective avoiding glare from incident sunlight.

12.11 Mitigation Measures and Operational (Residual) Impacts

12.11.1 The mitigation measures have been developed to alleviate the identified landscape and visual impacts, these will eventually form the basis for the landscape proposals. Figures 12.7a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o shows the broad landscape treatment proposed to mitigate the effects predicted during the EIA, whilst Figures 12.8a, b, c show how these mitigation measures would be implemented through the use of a number of typical sections.

12.11.2 A series of computer generated images or photomontages are shown on Figure 12.10 a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o, p, the location of which are identified on Figure 12.9. The photomontages of the proposed scheme show the existing conditions, unmitigated impacts, partially mitigated impacts during the opening year (Year 1) and those residual impacts which would exist in the design year during the operational phase (Year 10-15).

12.11.3 Figures 12.10 a and b show the existing view from Lok Ma Chau Lookout Point towards the proposed Terminus Building. The post construction view as presented shows the proposed viaduct crossing the pond area to the east of Lok Ma Chau Boundary Crossing control point before crossing San Sham Road and joining the proposed Terminus Building. The images show the proposed scheme integrated into a landscape characterised by open storage areas, fishpond areas and the infrastructure associated with the boundary crossing.

12.11.4 Figure 12.10 c, shows the existing view from the road south of Chau Tau towards Ki Lung Shan. The works associated with the drainage works which form the foreground in views from Chau Tau would obscure much of the available view of the proposed above ground structure associated with the tunnel section, therefore the view has been brought forward to the new road to the south of the village. This allows a view of the worst-case scenario in terms of the impacts arising from these structures. Figures 12.10 c and d show the post construction view with the proposed ventilation building located at the western end of the tunnel. The view demonstrates that the west Ventilation Building will be largely be in scale with the other surrounding developments and role of the proposed mitigation planting in further alleviating predicted adverse impacts.

12.11.5 Figure 12.10 e shows the existing view from Yan Shau Wai north towards a skyline dominated by the urban development of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone. Figures 12.10 e and f show the proposed Terminus Building at Lok Ma Chau in a post construction view with the proposed screen planting around the station complex and the proposed finishes to the building superstructure. The image also shows the viaduct crossing Lok Ma Chau Road and joining the proposed terminus.

12.11.6 Figure 12.10 g shows the existing view from the western bank of the river Beas MDC north towards the village of Ho Sheung Heung and the summit of Tai Shek Mo. The post construction views presented as Figures 12.10 g and h show the proposed above structures associated with the proposed EAP. The image shows the scale of the proposed structure in relation to the adjacent landscape. The view also demonstrates the visual and landscape disturbance caused by the existing MDC works and the role of the proposed landscape mitigation measures in visually softening the form EAP structure.

12.11.7 Figure 12.10 i shows the existing view from the western bank of the River Sutlej MDC north west towards the existing KCRC East Rail and Sheung Shui Abattoir. The view clearly shows the poor quality of the existing landscape, which is characterised by contained storage and construction activity. The post construction views presented as figure 12.10 i and j show the proposed ventilation building at the eastern end of the tunnel section with its relative scale and visual appearance being in context with the existing landscape character. The view also demonstrates the role of the proposed mitigation planting in visually softening the form of the structure.

12.11.8 Figure 12.10 k shows the existing view from San Wan Road at the foot of the Po Shek Wu Road Bridge looking south west. The post construction views presented as Figures 12.10 k and l show the proposed noise barrier extending north from Sheung Shui Station. The image shows that the form and scale of the proposed noise barrier would not be visually intrusive in the context of the urban environment.

12.11.9 Figure 12.10 m shows the existing view south east from the temples to the south of the village of Ho Sheung Heung towards the EAP Structure west of the River Beas MDC. The viewpoint is located on the eastern edge of the hard standing adjacent to the temple buildings and thus represents the worst case scenario in terms of the available views. The actual view from the eastern façade of the temple buildings will be largely screened by the mature woodland to the south of the temple site clearly visible on the right of the images. The proposed EAP structure would have a negligible impact on the views from this location.

12.11.10 Figure 12.10 o shows the existing view from the 14th floor of Choi Ping House looking north over Sheung Shui Station and the existing KCR track. The post construction views presented as figures 12.10 p and n show the proposed noise barrier with cantilever extending north from Sheung Shui Station on the western side of the existing KCR East Rail alignment. The existing tree and shrub planting would be retained where possible to break up the horizontal emphasis of the structure and reduce its apparent visual mass.

12.12 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

12.12.1 The EIA has recommended the EM&A for landscape and visual resources is undertaken during both the construction and operational phases of the project. The implementation and maintenance of the soft landscape mitigation and compensatory planting measures are key aspects of this and should be checked to ensure that the proposals are fully realised. The proposals for the EM&A Manual and Implementation schedule are contained in Chapter 15 of this report.

12.13 Programme for Landscape Works

12.13.1 The landscape works will closely follow the completion of the civil engineering contracts, as is shown in Table 12.7 below. The Design Year is for the purposes of this study taken as approximately 10 – 15 years after the scheme opening when the proposed soft landscape mitigation is deemed to have reached a level of maturity commensurate with the performance of the proposed mitigation objectives.

Table 12.7 Provisional Programme for Landscape Works

Section of the Proposed Scheme	Approximate Time Scale
Section of the Proposed Scheme	Completion of the General Civil Engineering Works	Implementation of Landscape Works*	Design Year
Track from Sheung Shui Station to Lok Ma Chau Border Control Point	June 2006	June 2006 to July 2007	2022
Track from Lok Ma Chau Border Control Point up to and including the proposed Lok Ma Chau Station	June 2006	June 2006 to July 2007	2022

*Note: The implementation of the soft landscape mitigation measures should be completed as soon as possible following the completion of the engineering works. Where possible a phased programme of implementation would ensure that the soft landscape measures fulfil their mitigation role at the earliest possible opportunity.

12.13.2 For the purposes of this report the above programme has been simplified to give an indication of the proposed design year for the soft landscape mitigation measures. At this stage the programme is preliminary and subject to finalisation during the detail design stages of the project. At the very latest the implementation of the landscape works should be undertaken in the planting season immediately following the sectional completion of the engineering works. Hydroseeding should however be undertaken by the main contractor immediately following the completion of the engineering works. The landscape maintenance for soft works are expected to include:

· Regular maintenance, including irrigation, pruning, etc. for ornamental trees and shrubs. All ornamental areas would be accessible to maintenance vehicles.

· Informal maintenance for woodland planting. The proposed woodland planting would be designed to be low maintenance. However during the initial establishment period and the following period until the stand reaches maturity the wooded areas would require an active management and maintenance regime. This would include the selective thinning of the woodland to remove the nurse species and achieve the optimal distance between the trunks to allow the healthy growth of the individual trees. Beyond these considerations the woodland areas would require little maintenance inputs, an important considerations particularly where access is difficult for example in track side locations and on steep slopes. In these situations maintenance would be on an on-call basis only.

· Regular clearance of refuse and debris accumulation within the project limit.

12.14 Implementation, Management and Maintenance of the Landscape Works

12.14.1 The objective of the management and maintenance regime for the mitigation measures described above will be to ensure that the landscape fulfils its role in mitigating the predicted adverse landscape and visual impacts arising from the proposed scheme. Table 12.8 outlines the implementation, management and maintenance responsibilities for the landscape works and items associated with this project both during the construction and operational phases of the scheme.

Table 12.8 Implementation, Management and Maintenance of the Landscape Works

Landscape Item	Proposed Implementation	Management Department	Maintenance Department
All landscape works within KCRC Reserve	KCRC	KCRC	KCRC
Roadside planting (within 5m of a roadside)*	KCRC	LCSD	LCSD
Amenity Areas Noise mitigation measures	KCRC KCRC	LCSD KCRC	LCSD / Arch S D KCRC

*Note: The management / maintenance area of 5m falling within the responsibility of LCSD is measured from the kerbside.

12.14.2 This has been based on the WBTC No. 18/94, Management and Maintenance of Natural Vegetation and Landscape Works. The detail landscape design for the project will be submitted to the relevant Government Departments for their approval during the detail design stage of the Design and Construction phase of this project. This will also delineate the final boundaries for responsibility. The landscape mitigation measures do not include off-site mitigation.

12.15 Summary

12.15.1 After balancing the engineering, operation, safety, environmental and other considerations, the alignment of proposed Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau Spur Line has been determined as a tunnel from Sheung Shui to Chau Tau followed by viaduct to the proposed Lok Ma Chau Terminus. As has been described in Chapter 2, other alignments are either not technically feasible or cannot be developed within the programmed time period. The landscape and visual impact assessment has identified the existing landscape and visual character of the site and study area. It varies from the open and low lying agricultural and fishpond areas at the western and eastern ends of the alignment to the more developed cottage areas and road corridor in the valley between the Tit Hang and Ki Lun Shan hills. This is reflected in the visual context with views at the ends being open and rural in character, and the views in the central section being more enclosed and screened.

12.15.2 The primary landscape impacts would result from the disturbance to vegetation, agricultural areas and fishponds, together with the introduction of a major infrastructure element within the landscape at the western section of the alignment. However the proposed utilisation of a tunnel section bored using the TBM would leave the landscape above largely intact at the eastern and central sections of the alignment. There would however be some impacts from the proposed above ground structures including the EAP, Ventilation Buildings and Kwu Tung Station development. Table 12.9 below summarises the predicted loss of landscape resources resulting from the Spur Line proposals and indicates the significance of these losses to the landscape character of the Study Area. It also provides figures for the compensatory planting measures designed to mitigate these impacts. These proposed mitigation measures have been designed to integrate the proposals into the existing landscape of fishponds, agricultural land, open storage and cottage areas, and the future landscape represented by the Kwu Tung North NDA.

Table 12.9: Summary of Impact on Existing Landscape Resources

Landscape Resource	Total Area of Landscape Resource in the Study Area (Ha)	Total Loss of Area (Ha)	% Loss with the Study Area	Residual Impact
Fung Shui Woodland	17.81	0.02	0.1	Negligible
Woodland (including secondary forest and plantation forest)	48.00	0.16	0.3	Negligible
Orchard	10.91	0.52	4.8	Slight adverse to negligible impact
Agricultural Land (Dry)	34.41	0.09	0.26	Negligible
Agricultural Land (Wet)	14.25	0.0	0.0	None
Agricultural Land (not currently cultivated)	20.06	0.55	2.3	Negligible
Fishpond Areas	92.15	9.6	10.4	Slight adverse
Marsh	1.67	0.0	0.0	None
Watercourses	56.97	0.04	0.1	Negligible
Grass / Shrub Mosaic	8.05	0.02	0.2	Negligible

*Note: The provision of mitigation measures for Marsh, Watercourses, and Grass / Shrub Mosaic forms part of the wetland compensation proposals and is therefore quantified under the ecological impact assessment section of the report.

12.15.3 For the large part the predicted impacts would not have a significant effect on the landscape resources found in the Study Area. Although a small area of the culturally important Fung Shui forest north of Lok Ma Chau Control Point would be lost, this would not have a significant impact on either the existing resource or the character of the area from a landscape perspective. The proposals would lead to the loss of some 1,800 trees within the project limit and a further 250 would be transplanted. The proposed planting of some 4 hectares of compensatory tree planting within the project limit for the Spur Line would compensate for the loss of specimen trees, small woodland copses and woodlands resulting from the scheme. This equates to approximately 30,000 trees in the proposed mitigation planting areas, although the eventual number following management operations will be between 4,500 and 9,000.

12.15.4 The most significant of the losses would be that of the existing fishponds, which form an increasing scarce landscape resource within the HKSAR. However the majority of these losses would occur on the Lok Ma Chau Terminus site where the proximity of the scheme to the existing Sham Chun River channel and the Lok Ma Chau Control Point, and the proposed landscape mitigation measures would largely mitigate the schemes impact on the existing landscape character.

12.15.5 The landscape character of the study area would not be significantly affected by the Spur Line proposals, the predicted impacts are summarised in Table 12.10 below.

Table 12.10: Summary of Impact on Landscape Character

Landscape Character Area	Residual Impact
L1 North of Sheung Shui L2 River Beas Plain / Long Valley and Fung Kong L3 North of Ki Lun Shan NUA 1 Tai Shek Mo and Tung Kong Shan NUA 2 Ki Lun Shan NUA 3 Lok Ma Chau V1 Sheung Shui V2 Tai Tau Leng V3 Tsung Pak Long V5 Pun Uk Tsuen and Chau Tau C2 Tung Fong RC1 Fanling Highway RC2 Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing F1 River Beas Plain	Negligible
MUD 2 Kwu Tung North New Development Area V4 Ho Sheung Heung C1 Ho Heung Sheung C3 Chau Tau	Negligible to slight adverse
L4 Chau Tau	Slight adverse
MUD 1: Sheung Shui	Moderate adverse
F2 Lok Ma Chau F3 Sam So Shue	Significant adverse

12.15.6 The utilisation of the proposed tunnel section would leave the important landscape area of Long Valley intact.

12.15.7 The proposed viaducts would form a new large-scale element in the landscape. The main thrust of the proposed mitigation proposals has been to design a visually lightweight structure, which exhibits a graceful curving alignment. The alignment has where possible been selected to avoid high quality landscapes.

12.15.8 The proposed noise barriers at Sheung Shui Station would also form new elements within the landscape although the barriers would serve to screen some of the visual impacts arising from the existing railway track and its associated structures. In addition to this the barriers would be constructed in an area characterised by large-scale buildings such as the station complex, high-rise residential development and large warehouse type commercial premises, and so the scale of the development would be in keeping with the existing landscape context. The detailed design of this barriers would be carefully considered to minimise potential landscape impacts. The existing tree planting lining Choi Yuen Road would also aid the structures’ integration into the existing landscape framework. In general terms, the implementation of mitigation measures such as compensatory planting, re-instatement of fishpond areas and design of the viaduct and noise barriers should, where possible, integrate with the local landscape character thus minimizing much of the residual adverse impact arising from the proposals.

12.15.9 The proposed utilisation of a tunnel section would have a beneficial impact on the landscape of the Kwu Tung North NDA in that it would minimise the impact on the future landscape and visual amenity available to future residents. The predicted adverse impacts arising from the location of the EAP structure and above ground station structures would be minimised through the use of tree and shrub planting as part of the landscape mitigation package. The design of this section of the NDA, currently under review as part of the NENT Study, should seek incorporate where appropriate the proposed landscape mitigation measures in this area.

12.15.10 The Spur Line proposals would result in a negligible level of impact on designated planning zones within the Study Area. Table 12.11 below summarises the predicted impacts on the existing and future landscape planning framework of the Study Area.

Table 12.11: Summary of Impact on Existing and Future Landscape Planning Framework

Landscape Planning Designation	Residual Impact
1. Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau Spur Line 6/7. District Open Space D3/B6	Moderate beneficial
2. Other Specified Uses/WCA (West of Sheung Shui and north of Yin Kong) 3. Government / Institution or Community (Area D8 north of the proposed Spur Line) 4. RS, D7Reidential site with a plot ratio of 6.5 5.PSPS / HOS D4 16. Green Belt (East of Tit Hang) 22. Major Road (San Sham Road) 23. Drainage Reserve (Parallel to San Sham Road) Outline Zoning Plan S/NE-KTN/3 – Kwu Tung South Generally	Negligible Impact
7. RS / PSPS / HOS B4 (Private Sector Participation Scheme / Home Ownership Scheme Site with a plot ratio of 6.5) 8. RS / PSPS / HOS B4 9. RS B3 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 5.0) 10. R(2) F3 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 5.0) 11. R(1) F2 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 6.5) 12. R(1) F1 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 6.5) 13. R(2) F4 (Residential site with a plot ratio of 5.0) 14. G/IC E4 (Government / Institution or Community Uses; Fire station) 15. OU Business Uses E3 (Other Specified Uses)	Negligible to slight adverse
18. Undetermined (Between San Sham and Lok Ma Chau Roads) 19. Government / Institution or Community (Lok Ma Chau Control Point) 20. Green Belt (South of Lok Ma Chau lookout point)	Slight adverse
17. Green Belt (West of Tit Hang)	Slight to moderate adverse
21. Conservation Area (San Sham Road to Ping Hang) 24. Conservation Area (Sam Po Shue)	Moderate adverse

12.15.11 Most of the area effected would comprise agricultural land, although there would be losses to areas of Conservation Area, and smaller losses to areas designated as Industrial (Group D), Open storage and Open Space. The potential losses to areas designated as Conservation Areas would be mitigated through the use of the proposed ecological mitigation measures described in the ecological impact assessment section of this report. There would be approximately 5.0 hectares of the existing Green Belt at the western end of the proposed alignment and some limited indirect impacts on the Green Belt adjacent to Lok Ma Chau lookout Point. However approximately 1.7 hectares of the area of direct loss of Green Belt would be used to accommodate the proposed soft landscape mitigation measures. Although these impacts are not insignificant in terms of the area affected, the landscape character of these areas has been degraded by existing land uses. The proposals would leave the largely pristine hill slopes intact and so it would not affect the landscape setting of the valley and the future NDA, or the viability of these areas as Green Belt.

12.15.12 The proposed Spur Line would not have a direct impact upon the proposed Kwu Tung North NDA, the proposed alignment is safeguarded within the proposals and its construction would facilitate some of the planning principles central to the NDA such as the promotion of a ‘rail based development’.

12.15.13 The review of the existing planning and development control framework found that the Spur Line proposals would not conflict with the published land use plans for the Study Area and so no amendment is required as a result of the proposals. The original Spur Line alignment and the proposed tunnel option have been subject to consultation with the general public and the relevant statutory and advisory bodies, and has thus far received no specific comment concerning the acceptability of the predicted landscape and visual impacts.

12.15.14 The main visual impacts would arise from the disturbance to the existing vegetation, the introduction of the viaduct in the low-lying areas, and in the introduction of the proposed noise barriers adjacent to Sheung Shui station. The mitigation measures proposed for the scheme have been outlined above. The predicted visual impacts are summarised in Table 12.12 below.

Table 12.12: Summary of Impact on Visually Sensitive Receivers

Visually Sensitive Receivers	Residual Impact
2. Sheung Shui Sewage Treatment Works 4. Tsung Pak Long 5. Yin Kong 6. Fanling Highway East 7. Ho Sheung Heung 8. Fung Kong 9. Tung Fong South 10. Tung Fong North 11. Shek Tsai Leng 12. Dill’s Corner Camp 13. Pak Shek Au East 14. Pak Shek Au West 15. Footpath – Lok Ma Chau East 16. Footpath – Ki Lun Shan East 17. Footpath – Lok Ma Chau Central 20. Footpath – Ki Lun Shan West 21. Fanling Highway West 28. KCR East Rail 29. Europa Gardens	Negligible Impact
3. Other Uses (ongoing light industrial / commercial development) 32. High Rise Residential Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (north of the Spur Line) 33. Low-rise Residential Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (north of the Spur Line) 34. High-rise Residential Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (south of the Spur Line) 35. Low-rise Development, Kwu Tung North NDA (south of the Spur Line)	Negligible to slight adverse
1. Choi Po Court 27. San Sham Road and Lok Ma Chau Border Crossing 30. Choi Ping House	Slight adverse
18. Chau Tau East 22. Tung Chan Tai and San Lung Tsuen 24. Footpath and Viewpoint – Lok Ma Chau 25. Lok Ma Chau 26. Ha Wan Tsuen 31. 134 to 140 San Fung Road	Moderate adverse
19. Chau Tau West 23. Pun Uk Tsuen	Moderate to significant adverse

12.15.15 The visual impacts associated with the proposed noise barriers situated to the north of Sheung Shui station would not be significant as these structures would be located in an urban context characterised by large buildings many of which have a warehouse type design. The proposed colour and tonal treatment of the barriers would also serve to minimise these predicted visual impacts. The utilisation of the proposed tunnel section would alleviate much of the visual impacts arising from the central section of the alignment.

12.15.16 At the western end there would be limited opportunity for screen planting, with exception of Chau Tau, as the fishponds would be reinstated below the viaduct in order to maintain the areas landscape character. The viaduct would be in general context of the infrastructure developments such as the existing Fanling Highway (NTCR) and the Lok Ma Chau Control Point with its associated access roads and proposed vehicle holding areas.

12.15.17 The proposed Terminus complex at Lok Ma Chau would be viewed against the high-rise urban backdrop of Shenzhen and so the existing level of visual intrusion caused by this development would mitigate much of the resulting visual impact from the proposed scheme. The proposed mitigation tree and shrub planting around the station complex and the avoidance of finishes causing glare would also reduce the potential for visual impact.

12.15.18 Overall the proposed Lok Ma Chau Spur Line proposals would in terms of residual landscape and visual impacts be ‘acceptable with mitigation’ that is to say ‘there would be some adverse effects, but these can be eliminated, reduced or offset to a large extent by specific measures’.

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