12 Landscape
and Visual Impact Assessment
12.1 Introduction
12.1.1 Study Aim
This
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) is part of the Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed Third Golf Course at Kau Sai Chau. The
LVIA assesses the potential landscape and visual impacts that might occur as a
result of this golf course development that is classified as a category “O1”
project in Schedule 2 - Designated Projects Requiring Environmental Permits -
in the Guide to Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance.
The LVIA is necessitated due to the expected landscape and visual
impacts that could result from the golf course construction and permanent
works. Therefore, the impact assessment considers both construction and
operation conditions. Since there are sensitive receivers that will be
affected, this report also describes mitigation measures that would lessen the
magnitude of impacts.
The aim of this LVIA is to identify and describe the expected
landscape and visual impacts that might occur as a result of the construction
and operation of the Proposed Third Golf Course (herein after referred to as
‘project’) and to define the significance and magnitude of these impacts before
and after mitigation.
12.1.2 Study Area
Drawing
No. 24213/LVIA/0101 illustrates the location of the existing and proposed third
golf courses on Kau Sai Chau. The new golf course will be located on the
eastern part of the island and some associated works will be carried out on the
existing courses.
Landscape
Impact Assessment (LIA): In accordance with EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2002
the landscape impact assessment includes all areas that are within 500m from
the limit of the works area for the new golf course. This extent is illustrated
on Drawing No. 24213/LVIA/0210 (see LIA Study Boundary).
Visual
Impact Assessment (
12.1.3 Purpose of this LVIA
The
purpose of this LVIA is to define the existing landscape and visual quality in
the LVIA Study Area; to evaluate the landscape and visual impacts associated
with the Proposed Third Golf Course development; to propose mitigation measure
and to establish if the levels of impacts resulting from the development are
higher, lower or the same as the existing conditions.
To achieve this purpose, the following goals are set out for this
LVIA:
§
To carry out landscape and visual baseline studies and to describe
the existing and future conditions;
§
To identify and describe the landscape and visual impacts of the proposed
development for both the construction and operation phases;
§
To define the significance and magnitude of these impacts;
§
To propose mitigation measures by taking local conditions and
experience in consideration and to describe the maintenance and management of
these mitigation measures; and
§
To indicate the residual impacts after mitigation.
12.2
Relevant Legislation
and Guidelines
The
methodology for undertaking the landscape and visual impact assessment is in
accordance with Annexes 10 and 18 of the Technical Memorandum on
Environmental Impact Assessment Process, the EIAO Guidance Note No.
8/2002 and the EIA Study Brief No. ESB-064/2000. The list of
legislation, standards and guidelines applicable to this assessment is as
follows:
§
Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499, Section 16);
§
Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process;
§
EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2002 – Preparation of Landscape and
Visual Impact Assessment;
§
§
Tai Mong Tsai & Tsam Chuk Wan OZP No. S/SK-TMT/2;
§
Pak Kong and Sha Kok Mei OZP No. S/SK-PK/9;
§
§
Hebe Haven OZP No. S/SK-HH/5;
§
WBTC No. 25/93 – Control of Visual Impact of Slopes;
§
WBTC No. 17/2000 – Improvement of Appearance of Slopes;
§
GEO Publication No. 1/2000 – Technical Guidelines on Landscape
Treatment and Bio-engineering for manmade Slopes and Retaining Walls
§
WBTC 14/2002 – Management and Maintenance of Natural Vegetation
and Landscape Works, and Tree Preservation; and
§
ETWB TCW No. 2/2004 – Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape
Features.
12.3
LVIA Assessment
Methodology
12.3.1 LVIA Approach
The
approach to this study has been facets:
§
To be in accordance with the standards and legislation as
described in the EIAO and other legislation;
§
To follow a sound research ethic; and
§
To base the assessment methodology on the objectives as set in
Section 1.3 above.
12.3.2 The Research Ethic
This LVIA is
a professional study conducted by a team consisting of landscape architects
assisted by field surveyors and production technicians. The landscape
architects conducted the assessment in an independent and comprehensive manner,
where the findings are authentic to their properties and not according to
preferred definitions. In doing this, the landscape architects relied on
experience and professional judgements, the evaluation of the study by
Government bodies and the other related impact assessments of this EIA Report.
In addition, the findings of this LVIA study are presented in a structured and
systematic manner to improve the public comprehension hereof during public
participation processes.
12.3.3 Project Description
The project details are described in Section 2 of the EIA Report. Since it is necessary to describe how the proposed development fits into the scope of the landscape and visual environments and describe works that might cause landscape or visual impacts, Section 12.4 of the LVIA describes golf course features relevant to the LVIA.
The description is in text and drawing formats and presents the following details: plans to indicate location of the proposed development, existing golf course, extents of the development works, outline zoning plan and the boundary of affected areas.
12.3.4 Review of Planning and Development
Control Framework
A
review of the existing planning studies and documents was undertaken as part of
the assessment to gain an insight into the planned role of the site, its
context and to help determine whether the proposed development fits into the
wider existing and future landscape context.
This
review considered the planning intensions described on OZPs and other
documents. It identifies any issue
of conflict with the neighbouring planned land uses. It in particular
identifies future visually sensitive receivers (VSRs). It also describes the
future landscape setting and visual context of the study area.
12.3.5 Landscape Impact Assessment
The
assessment of the potential impacts comprises two distinct sections:
§
Baseline survey; and
§
Identification and definition of landscape impacts.
Baseline Survey:
To conduct the landscape baseline study that describes the
physical properties of the landscape, two surveys were carried out: The first
was a desktop survey and the second a site survey. These two surveys collected
data with respect to the landscape character areas (LCAs) and landscape
resources (LRs). Landscape elements surveyed include:
§
Vegetation;
§
Rock features
§
Patterns of settlement;
§
Land use; and
§
Prominent watercourses and water bodies.
Landscape Resources: These are the individual landscape elements types. These resources are described and illustrated. Part of the vegetation survey includes a specific survey on trees. The tree survey methodology is defined in Section 12.3.6 below.
Landscape
Character Areas: Landscape areas with broadly homogeneous units of similar
character were identified. These are areas where the topography in particular
defines landscape units and are further characterised by landscape element
compositions. These LCAs are described and illustrated.
Sensitivity
to change: The individual LCAs and LRs are rated using low, medium or high
depending on the following factors that influence sensitivity:
§
Quality – the overall performance of a LCA or LR in the study area;
§
Importance or rarity;
§
Ability to accommodate change;
§
Significance of potential change in the local context;
§
Significance of potential change in the regional context;
§
Maturity of landscape elements comprising; and
§
Overall size within the study area.
The
determined degree of sensitivity has the following meanings:
§
High: A LR or LCA that is rare, protected or of particular value
in its local context or in
§
Medium: A LR or LCA that valuable to its local context and have a
moderate ability to absorb change;
§
Low: A LR or LCA that is common, in poor condition (such as the
eroded slopes on the site) and have the ability to absorb change.
Identification
and definition of landscape impacts:
Identification:
This is a systematic process during which any anticipated changes to the
landscape are recorded. These changes will occur during both the construction
and operation phases of the proposed golf course. Such changes are described,
measured and illustrated in this report.
Magnitude
of change: The change to LCAs and LRs are rated as negligible, small,
intermediate or large. Factors affecting the magnitude of change are:
§
Compatibility of the golf course features with the surrounding
landscape;
§
Duration of impacts under construction and operation phases;
§
Scale of the golf course elements;
§
Reversibility of change; and
§
The relative size of the change in comparison to the size of the
LCA or LR.
The
measured magnitude of change has the following meanings:
§
Large: the quantitative and qualitative loss is high and will lead
to permanent alteration of the properties of the LR or LCA;
§
Intermediate: The quantitative and qualitative loss is moderate
and some portions of the LR or LCA will be permanently changed;
§
Small: The quantitative and qualitative loss can be observed, but
most portions of the LR or LCA will stay in tact;
§
Negligible: The effect of the impact on the LR or LCA is barely
noticeable or non-existent.
Definition:
The impact is a product of the sensitivity of a LCA or LR and the magnitude of
change to such a LCA or LR. The significance threshold for impacts to landscape
character and resources is a definition of the impact and is rated as
significant, moderate/significant, moderate, slight/moderate or negligible. Any
such impacts are further defined as beneficial or adverse. The significance
threshold is derived from the Significance Threshold Matrix as described in Table
12.3.5.a below:
Magnitude
of Change caused by proposal |
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
Impact |
Negligible
Impact |
Negligible
Impact |
|
|
Low |
Medium |
High |
|
|
Sensitivity
to Change |
Table
12.3.5.a The
Significance Threshold Matrix
Table 12.3.5b describes the meanings of the
above significance threshold definitions. Since impacts can be either
beneficial or adverse, the definitions are also classified in such terms.
Adverse / Beneficial Impacts |
|||
Significant: An impact where the proposal
would cause significant deterioration or improvement in the existing
environmental quality. |
Moderate: An impact that would cause
noticeable deterioration or improvement in the existing environmental quality. |
Slight: An impact that would barely
cause a perceptible deterioration or improvement in the existing
environmental quality. |
Negligible: An impact where the change
might be noticeable. |
Note: 1)
Moderate / Significant impacts can in part be classified as
Moderate and in part as Significant. 2)
Slight / Moderate impacts can in part be classified as Slight
and in part as Moderate. |
Table
12.3.5.b Impact Definitions
12.3.6 Tree Survey Methodology
Trees
are landscape resources. The impact identification and definition process are
therefore similar to the above statements in Section 12.3.5. This paragraph
describes the field survey methodology. In accordance with the EIAO Guidance
Note 8/2002 a broad-brush tree survey should be carried out for a
LVIA.
The
broad-brush tree survey for this LVIA was conducted by means of a field survey.
Tree groups were identified and surveyed. Recorded data are: location of tree
group, size of tree group, species composition and approximate number of
individuals in each group. The Study Area on Kau Sai Chau has also identified
and recorded large numbers of individual trees that are scattered throughout
the Site. This report describes these threes and the impact of the development
on them. A separate tree felling application is being processed for all trees.
12.3.7 Visual Impact Assessment
Potential
visual impacts are assessed under the following two topics:
§
Baseline survey; and
§
Identification and definition of landscape impacts.
Baseline
Survey:
The
baseline survey was carried out by means of both desktop and field surveys.
Data was collected to describe the visual properties of existing and future
visually sensitive receiver (
Sensitivity
to change: The individual
§
Value of existing views;
§
Quality of existing views;
§
Availability of alternative views;
§
Amenity of alternative views;
§
Type of VSRs in the group;
§
Number of VSRs in the group;
§
Duration of views to the golf course;
§
Frequency of views to the golf course; and
§
Degree of visibility.
The
determined degree of sensitivity has the following meanings:
§
High: A
§
Medium: A
§
Low: A
Identification
and definition of visual impacts:
Identification:
This is a systematic process during which any anticipated changes to views are
recorded. These changes will occur during both the construction and operation
phases of the proposed golf course. Such changes are described illustrated in
this report.
Magnitude
of change: The change of views from
§
Compatibility with the landscape and character of the
surroundings;
§
Duration of impacts;
§
Scale of the golf course;
§
Reversibility of the change;
§
Viewing distance; and
§
Potential blockage of views.
The
measured magnitude of change has the following meanings:
§
Large: The qualitative change is dramatic and permanent;
§
Intermediate: The qualitative change is noticeable, but viewers
still have other views of good quality;
§
Small: The qualitative change is noticeable, but viewers have a
large number of high quality alternative views for enjoyment;
§
Negligible: The effect of the impact on the
Definition:
Similar to the case of LCAs and LRs, the
12.3.8 Landscape
& Visual Impact Mitigation Measures
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. Mitigation measures have considered
factors including:
§
Avoiding landscape and visual impacts as far as possible;
§
Preserving sensitive landscape and visual elements as far as
possible;
§
Preservation of existing vegetation as far as possible;
§
Introduction of woodland, tree and shrub planting of new or
disturbed slopes, amenity strips and areas, areas adjacent to any new
structures to aid stabilization with careful consideration of significant
landscape elements;
§
Consideration of the contouring of new slopes in order to visually
integrate them into the existing topography;
§
Use of vegetated earth mounding or structural solutions for
screening; and
§
Feasibility of mitigation measures in respect of funding,
implementation phasing and maintenance.
These objectives will result in the
formation of landscape mitigation proposals, which will alleviate the
previously identified landscape and visual impacts as far as possible, both
during its construction and operation phases, and to ensure that the residual
impacts are acceptable.
12.3.9 Defining
the Residual Impacts
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 taken to be
10 years after the golf course 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.
As described above, the level of impact is
a product of the sensitivity to change and the magnitude of change, which the
proposals will cause to landscape character, landscape resource or visually
sensitive receiver. It is a comparison of the future landscape modified by the
proposals with the landscape, which would have existed during this period if
the golf course 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 as per the
description in Table 12.3.5a
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 in accordance with The Significant Threshold Matrix B in Table
3.5.a above.
12.3.10
Presentation Materials
The approach to this LVIA is to present a
concise text and thorough illustrations
The text, including table is generated
with MS WORD.
The aerial photo location plan (Drawing
No. 24213/LVIA/0101) used
in this LVIA was obtained from the Survey and Mapping Office of the Lands
Department of the Government of HKSAR and reproduction rights were obtained
from the Lands Department. This
aerial photo was scanned with a Canon and converted to Photoshop 6.0 format for
further configurations.
Photos for the baseline study were taken
with a Canon G2 digital camera and first converted to Adobe Photoshop
format. These are used in this LVIA
to describe the landscape resources, landscape character areas the views from
visually sensitive receivers groups.
The terrain models for the photomontages
were built with 3d Max and converted to Photoshop 6 prior to overlaying them on
photographs.
The base maps that are used in this LVIA
were obtained from the Survey and Mapping Office of the Lands Department of the
Government of HKSAR. Reproduction
rights were obtained from the Lands Department.
All the figures of this LVIA are on A3 size
and in color. These figures were
originally printed for submission with a FUJI XEROX DocuColor 1250 printer.
12.4 Project Description
12.4.1 Overview
Works for this project are for the third
public golf course on Kau Sai Chau and associated facilities. Details are
described in Chapter 2 of the EIA Report. The description below is a brief
summary of the works, with particular attention to those works that will impact
the landscape and visual environments.
12.4.2 Design Phase
The design phase of this project commenced
in the last quarter of 2004 and was completed in mid 2005. Several stakeholders
and interest groups were consulted during the process in order to identify
potential impacts at an early stage and to avoid these impacts as far as
possible. As a result, the design was revised several times in order to avoid
disturbance to sensitive water courses, minimize cut and fill works, minimize
removal of trees, protect mangroves, avoid visual obtrusion, avoid direct
runoff from the golf course to the ocean and to ensure an harmonious interface
with the existing golf course. Enhancement of the landscape was given high
priority, in particular to restore eroded slopes within the works area.
Broad Landscape Strategy: The landscape
has been designed to support the play of golf, to enhance the existing
landscape and to mitigate landscape and visual impacts.
Since the third golf course will be a
public golf course, its tees, greens and fairways have been designed to
accommodate a large range of players. It will be suitable for the use by
professional players as well as novice players. Shade trees will be located at
rain shelters and halfway houses for the comfort of golfers. Access and
circulation through the new golf course will be by golf carts. The track layout
is illustrated on Drawing Nos. 24213/LVIA/0102, - /0111, - /0112, - /0113 and -
/0114.
Landscape works at the existing pier will
include the construction of a new retaining with entrance logos. This wall will
be surfaced to have a natural rock face appearance (see Drawing No. -/0544.
More trees will be planted to screen site formation works at the desalination
plant and to direct views around the roundabout. Landscape works at the
administration building will include new tree, shrub and ground cover planting
with the aim of enhancing the existing landscapes and to provide more shade.
Dense screen planting will be carried out with the use of trees and shrubs at
the maintenance building.
The grassing works for the tees, fairways
and greens will be the largest component of landscape works at the golf course
area. The other major component of landscape works will be the restoration of
eroded slopes by the use of bio-engineering techniques. Hydroseeding will be
the main planting technique on these slopes. Shrub and tree planting will
further support this. Other landscape works of the golf course area will
comprise of grass-shrub-mix hydroseeding in residual areas that were disturbed
during construction and tree planting works. Trees will be planted to provide
shade, direct views, increase the species diversity and to compensate for
losses.
12.4.2 Construction Phase
The construction phase is expected to
commence in late 2005. Completion of works is expected in mid 2007.
Drawing No. 24213/LVIA/0110 illustrates
the extent of the construction works and the key construction facilities. The
“Works Boundary of Proposed New Third Golf Course” on the aforesaid drawing
illustrates the extent of construction works. Bulk site formation works will be
carried out during the dry season in order to avoid excessive erosion and will
cover the areas illustrated in the works boundary zones.
The existing pier will be used during the
construction of the desalination plant and associated saltwater pumping
station. The location of the desalination plant is illustrated on Drawing No. -
/ 0114. Occasionally, the existing pier will also be used for the delivery of
construction workers, building plant and building material. A temporary barging
point will be erected at a rocky shoreline point East of the existing golf
course. It is illustrated on Drawing No. - / 0111. Old concrete ruins of a
previous pier are still present at this point. Deliveries to Site during the
construction phase will prioritize this temporary barging point. It will be
decommissioned after the construction phase in mid 2007.
Haul roads will be created for
construction activities. These will be located on future fairway and cart path
areas in order to avoid disturbance of natural vegetation. A haul road section
will be created between the temporary barging point and the nearest primary
haul road. This haul road will be decommissioned after construction. Site
formation and grassing works will cover up other haul roads during the course
of construction.
Site offices may be located approximately
in the centre of the third golf course, near the proposed Hole 2 tee complex.
The construction yard may be located South of the Hole 17 fairway.
12.4.3 Operation Phase
The proposed third golf course will be an
18-hole golf course. Key supporting infrastructure include: Desalination plant,
salt water pumping station, a two level golf cart parking building, a new
practice green, minor extensions of the administration building, a one storey
high additional maintenance building, maintenance service yard, golf cart path,
irrigation lakes, two small bridges, water tanks, water pumping stations,
halfway houses and rains shelters. Halfway houses and rain shelters will be one
storey high. These are illustrated on Drawing Nos. 24213/LVIA/0102, - /0111, -
/0112, - /0113 and - /0114.
Circulation: Future access to
the golf courses will be via the existing pier. Visitors will be taken from the
pier to the administration building by bus. New larger busses will be required
to cope with the future increase of visitor numbers. To facilitate the movement
of such larger busses, the roundabout at the pier will be extended as well as
the drop-off zone at the administration building. The existing vehicular
circulation system from the administration building to the maintenance
buildings will be kept, while an additional service road will be constructed
around the maintenance building extensions. An additional helicopter pad will
be constructed between the new Hole 12 and Hole 13 (See Drawing No. -/0111).
Service access to the halfway houses and rain shelters will be via the proposed
new golf cart track.
Golf players will access the third golf
course from the new golf cart parking building, which will be located East of
the administration building. A network of golf cart tracks will be located on
the new course as is illustrated on Drawing Nos. -/0102, - / 0111, - / 0112, -
/ 0113 and - / 0114. Valleys and streams will be bridged over.
Works: The desalination
plant will be located in a depression of the small hill behind the existing
pier as is illustrated on Drawing No. - / 0114. The Eastern part of this hill
will require rock cutting and slope stabilization works in order to locate the
plant on a platform, which is accessible from the existing road and to screen
views to it as much as possible. The vehicular roundabout behind the existing
pier will be extended to allow for the movement of larger busses. A small
portion of the foot slopes of the hill will be effected and be stabilized with
a low retaining wall. These works
are illustrated on Drawing Nos. - / 0543, - / 0544 and - / 0545.
Water mains will be laid along the access
road leading towards administration / clubhouse building complex. Minor road
extension works will be carried out at the administration building to allow
access and movement of larger busses. The existing golf cart parking area at
the administration building will be replaced and enlarged to a two-storey cart
park building. The entrance portal of the administration building will also be
enlarged.
The maintenance building, which is located
southeast of the administration building will be expanded to include additional
storage facilities and management offices. These expansions are necessary to
deal with additional requirements associated with the third golf course. A
septic tank will also be provided at his location.
Hole 1, Hole 18 and a new practice green
will be located southeast of the building complexes. From this location the
first nine holes and Hole 17are located adjacent to the existing golf courses
at a position approximately northwest from the central ravine of the natural
topography. These are illustrated on Drawing Nos. - / 0111, - / 0112 and - /
0114. Holes 10 to 16 will be located southeast of the central ravine.
12.5 Review of Planning and Development Control Framework
12.5.1 Introduction
A review of the existing and future development framework that
encompasses or will be influenced by the third golf course has been undertaken
and the results of this review are described below. The aims of this review
are:
§
to gain insight into the planned functions of the study area and
its context;
§
to identify any issue of conflict with the neighbouring planned
land uses;
§
to describe how the golf course fits in the planning and
development context; and
§
to determine future sensitive receivers (SRs).
A study commissioned by the Planning Department namely: “Study on
South East New Territories Development Strategy Review” indicates that Kau Sai
Chau is centrally located in a larger area that will be characterised by:
“Conservation oriented recreation land uses”. The Study identifies Kau Sai Chau
as an island that has or will have landscape protection areas, development
areas (the existing golf courses) and recreation areas with conservation
effort. The proposed third golf course is located within the area that is
defined as recreation area with conservation effort. Section 2 of the EIA
Report describes conservation efforts on the golf course such as the protection
of existing sensitive streams, protection of trees, protection of mangrove
areas and primary knolls. Since the play of golf, which is recreation activity,
will be the primary use of the land, both the recreation and conservation
efforts described in the aforesaid study will be achieved and no land use
conflicts are anticipated.
The Study further describes the surroundings of Kau Sai Chau. It
highlights in particular the conservation intensions of the larger area, which
includes the following country parks:
Four Outline Zoning Plans (OZP) further define the development
intensions of nearby areas, namely:
§
Tai Mong Tsai & Tsam Chuk Wan OZP No. S/SK-TMT/2;
§
Pak Kong and Sha Kok Mei OZP No. S/SK-PK/9;
§
§
Hebe Haven OZP No. S/SK-HH/5.
Land uses on the Tai Mong Tsai & Tsam Chuk Wan OZP are the
nearest to Kau Sai Chau, less than two kilometres away, and are the most likely
to receive influences from the golf course. The expected influences will be
visual and mostly apparent during the construction phase when vessels will
deliver building material to Kau Sai Chau via a temporary barging point and
site formation works. Drawing No. 24213/LVIA/0201 illustrates the location of
these land uses.
While the largest extent of land areas illustrated on this OZP
have conservation intensions, the OZP describes residential (group C) (R(C))
village type development (V) as well as government, institutional or community
(G/IC) types of land uses. These are typically located in a scattered pattern
with green areas in-between. Recreation (Rec) and other specified uses (OU)
illustrated on this OZP also have scattered distribution patterns. In general,
the development intensity of these uses is low. As a result, buildings are
typically low-rise. Land uses along the coastal bay at Tsam Tsuk Wan will
receive visual impacts from the development of the golf course, since these are
located in the visual envelope of the golf course (see Drawing No.
24213/LVIA/0240). These impacts are further described in Sections 12.8 and
12.99 of this LVIA. In short though, the construction phase impacts before
mitigation will be slight to moderate. Operation phase impacts are expected to
be slight. No direct landscape impacts are expected on any of the land uses of
this OZP.
Land uses that are described on the other three OZPs will not be
directly affected. Minor disturbances are however expected during the
construction phase with the uploading and downloading of building material and
construction plant in Sai Kung prior to shipping to Kau Sai Chau.
12.5.2 Fit of Proposal Within Existing Planning
and Development Context
With respect to the overall planning intensions in the South East
New Territories, the proposed third new golf course will support recreational
and tourism initiatives. Though environmental impacts will be inevitable, the
third gold course is not expected to be in direct conflict with statutory land
uses that have conservation and preservation intensions.
Development types such as R(C), V, G/IC,
Rec, and OU with higher people user numbers will receive visual impacts. Such
impacts will not be significant, will not render the function of these uses
obsolete and will decrease after the construction phase.
Direct impacts on green belt (GB) areas
are not expected. Occasional users will receive visual impacts that will not be
significant. Similarly, Conservation area (CA), coastal protection area (CPA)
and country park (CP) land uses will not be directly impacted and occasional
users will receive some visual impacts, especially during the construction
phase. Such visual impacts will not cause any significant conflicts with these
land uses.
In overall consideration, the proposed third golf course at Kau
Sai Chau is expected to fit within the planning and development context of its
surroundings. Visually sensitive receivers of some land uses will be affected,
in particular around Tsam Chuk Wan. Sections 12.8 and 12.9 of this LVIA
describe these expected visual impacts.
12.6 Existing Landscape
Baseline Conditions
12.6.1 Introduction
This section describes the landscape baseline conditions of all
areas that are within a 500m distance from the works boundaries of the third
golf course or associated infrastructure. Descriptions are on the properties of
the landscape resources and character areas.
Shrubland and the grassing areas of the two existing golf courses
dominate landscape resources on Kau Sai Chau. The man-made lakes, wetland and
reservoir diversify the collection of resources. These are illustrated on
Drawing No. 24213/LVIA/0210.
The landscape character of Kau Sai Chau is characterised by
rolling hillside landscapes with valleys, knolls, ridges, rocky and sandy
shorelines as well as the existing golf courses. Prominent man-made features
include the existing clubhouse, administration buildings, reservoir, pier and
fairways. In total, ten landscape character areas were recorded within the
boundaries of the landscape. The extent of these are illustrated on Drawing No.
24213/LVIA/0220.
12.6.2 Landscape Resources
12.6.2.1 LR 1 – Tall Shrubland
Tall shrubland covers large areas of relatively undisturbed land
within the Study area. These are typically characterised by tall grasses,
shrubs and small trees. Species include: Baeckea frutescens, Gordonia
axillaries, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia, Pinus
massoniana, Ormosia emarginata and Rhus succedanea.
Sensitivity of LR at Baseline
Conditions |
|
Sensitivity Parameter |
Rating |
Quality of landscape resource |
Medium |
Importance and rarity |
Medium |
Ability to accommodate change |
High |
Local significance of potential change |
Medium |
Regional significance of potential
change |
Medium |
Maturity |
Medium |
Area |
101 Ha |
Sensitivity Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.6.2.1.a LR 1:
Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.2 LR 2 – Shrubland
The species composition of this LR is similar to that of LR 1,
with the exception of less small trees, lower shrub cover and more grass cover.
The likely reason for this observation is lower soil depths, fire and human
disturbance. Weeds like the
herbaceous vine Mikania micranthus are frequently
encountered at locations near existing golf courses in this LR.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
Medium |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Medium |
Local
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity |
Low |
Area |
190 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.6.2.2.a LR
2: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.3 LR 3 – Developing
The site is dominated by shrubland vegetation with a few
individual trees scattered within. Some valley areas have developing secondary
woodlands, which typically trees from the genera Cinnamomum and Machilus. Other frequently observed species are Ilex
spp., Gordonia axillaries, Adinandra millettii, Diospyros morrisiana,
Garcinia oblongifolia, Glochidion spp. and Sapium sebiferum.
Valley floors typically have Reevesia thyrsoidea, Rhus succedanea
and Sapium spp. The majority of trees are less than 4m tall.
The individual tree survey has recorded a total number of 661
trees. Of these, 32 are classified as significant for being either rare or
having high amenity values.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
Low |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
High |
Local
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Low |
Maturity |
Low |
Area
of woodland |
19 Ha |
Individual
trees |
661 |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Low |
Table 12.6.2.3.a LR
3: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.4 LR 4 – Marches
Four man-made lakes are located in a lowland area North-west of
the administration building. Their amenity value, vegetation cover and species
diversity are high. A high quality man-made wetland is located East of the
existing course close to the proposed Hole 5 location.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity |
High |
Area |
4.1 ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.2.4.a LR
4: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.5 LR 5 – Reservoir
A large reservoir is located at the eastern end of the existing
golf courses. It was created approximately 10 years ago. Fairways grass and
introduced natural shrubland vegetation covers its banks. Muddy flats are
exposes during very dry seasons due to water draw downs.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
Medium |
Importance
and rarity |
Low |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Medium |
Local
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Low |
Maturity |
Low |
Area |
5.2 ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Low |
Table 12.6.2.5.a LR
5: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.6 LR 6 – Mangroves
Cultivated mangrove forests are located at two areas within the
Study Area. The first is a behind the reservoir’s wall and the second on
coastal mud plains southeast of the existing course. Most of these mangroves are young and
immature. They do however comprise rare species with conservation value.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
Medium |
Importance
and rarity |
High |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
High |
Maturity |
Low |
Area |
0.4 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.2.6.a LR
6: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.7 LR 7 – Eroded Slopes
Much of the Central Valley and the
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
Low |
Importance
and rarity |
Low |
Ability
to accommodate change |
High |
Local
significance of potential change |
Low |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Low |
Area |
10 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Low |
Table 12.6.2.7.a LR
7: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.8 LR 8 –
A few sandy beaches are located within the LIA Study boundaries.
These are typically well intact, small and attractive.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
High |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Running
length |
0.6 km |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.2.8.a LR
8: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.9 LR 9 – Rocky Shorelines
Most of the coastal edges are characterised by rocky shorelines of
volcanic origin. These accommodate a diversity of animal and plant habitats.
Rock slopes are steep and for the most inaccessible.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
High |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Running
length |
8 km |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.2.9.a LR
9: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.10 LR 10 – Grassing Areas of Existing Golf
Course
This landscape resource is the cultivated
grassing surface of the golf course itself, comprising the fairway tee, fairway
and putting areas. It s well managed and maintained with an attractive
appearance throughout the year, including the dry season.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Medium |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Area |
63 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.6.2.10.a LR
10: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.2.11 LR
11 – Streams
Three
streams are located within the LIA Study boundaries, namely stream A, B and C.
These are illustrated on Drawing No. -/0210. These streams are perennial with
an average depth of less than 300mm. Stream A carries a high sediment load,
while stream B and C has clear water with little sediment. Riparian vegetation
is immature. Small trees, with heights seldom more than 4m were recorded within
the stream valley areas with Schefflera heptaphylla, Machilus chekiangensis, Gordonia axillaris and Ormosia
emarginata as
the dominant species.
Sensitivity
of LR at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape resource |
Medium |
Importance
and rarity on Kau Sai Chau |
High |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Running
length |
1.6 km |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.2.11.a LR 11: Sensitivity to Potential
Change
12.6.3 Landscape Character
Areas
12.6.3.1 LCA 1 – Existing Kau Sai Chau Golf
Courses
Construction of the existing two golf courses was completed
approximately 10 years ago. Today these two public golf courses comprise a high
quality landscape that is characterised by rolling fairways and greens. They
are important in the cultural landscape of
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
High |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Medium |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity
of Landscape |
Medium |
Area |
134 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.6.3.1.a LCA
1: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.2 LCA 2 –
This large LCA is most visible when approaching the existing ferry
pier from the ocean. It is characterised by large eroded scars on both sides of
the valley. Other areas in this valley is characterised with scrubland and some
woodland.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
Low |
Quality
of landscape resources |
Low |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
High |
Local
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Low |
Maturity
of Landscape |
Medium |
Area |
39 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Low |
Table 12.6.3.2.a LCA
2: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.3 LCA 3 – Tai Leng Ridge
The Tai Leng Ridge stretches prominently across Kau Sai Chau.
Several small knolls and rocky outcrops reinforce the aesthetic appeal of this
ridge. On the western side is a cleared water pipe reserve that scars the
landscape. This LCA is visible from a large number of vantage points, both
locally and regionally. Any change to this landscape will impact its character.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
High |
Maturity
of Landscape |
Medium |
Area |
53 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.3.3.a LCA
3: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.4 LCA 4 – Yi Leng Ridge / Valley
This is a prominent valley character area. It is located East of
the Tai Leng Ridge. It is characterised by a number of small knolls and rocky
outcrops that collectively appears like a ridge within the valley. Several
foothills and also valley floor areas are scarred by erosion. The valley is further characterised with
a diverse number of natural features like small dry riverbeds, rock boulders
and shrubland, which are for the most only partly visible from the existing
golf course.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
Medium |
Quality
of landscape resources |
Medium to low |
Importance
and rarity |
Low |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Medium |
Local
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Low |
Maturity
of Landscape |
Low |
Area |
51 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Low |
Table 12.6.3.4.a LCA
4: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.5 LCA 5 – Coastal Ridge
Located South-east on Kau Sai Chau, this ridge is highly visible
to vessel passengers and only partially visible from the existing golf course.
It comprises a series of small hills and rocky outcrops with deep and shallow
valleys. Parts of this LCA are covered with woodland, while most of the vegetation
is shrubland.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Regional
significance of potential change |
High |
Maturity
of Landscape |
Medium |
Area |
27 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.3.5.a LCA
5: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.6 LCA 6 – Coastal Valley
Central parts of the proposed third golf course will be located in
this valley. It is characterised with several steep slopes and three prominent
valleys. A small dam wall is located in the central valley. The shoreline has
muddy floodplains with mangroves, sandy beaches and rocky beaches. Vegetation
cover is mostly shrubland. Some parts have eroded scars.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
High |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Medium |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity
of Landscape |
Medium |
Area |
21 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.3.6.a LCA
6: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.7 LCA 7 – Coastal Hills
Northern parts of the proposed third golf course will be located
on this LCA. It is characterised with several steep slopes and a series of
knolls. Areas between knolls have even slopes. These even slopes are
prioritised for golf course development. A small bay is located in its
approximate centre. It has a rocky shoreline. Ruins of a previous pier are
located on both ends of the bay. Vegetation cover is mostly shrubland with some
young woodland patches.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
High |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Medium |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity
of Landscape |
Medium |
Area |
40 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.3.7.a LCA
7: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.8 LCA 8 – Lower Coastal Hills
This LCA represents a small, relatively intact highland area North
of the existing golf course. The landform is rolling with a few small knolls.
Its shoreline is rocky and vegetation cover dominated by shrubland.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity
of Landscape |
High |
Area |
11 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.3.8.a LCA 8:
Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.9 LCA 9 – Northern Coastal Hills
The character of this landscape is similar to that of LCA 8,
except for having higher knolls
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity
of Landscape |
High |
Area |
12 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.3.9.a LCA
9: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.6.3.10 LCA 10 – Western Coastal Hills
This is a highland area with knolls that forms a small ridgeline.
It is located West of the existing golf course near the pier. It is flanked on
its West and East with two bays. Its shoreline is rocky and vegetation cover
dominated by shrubland.
Sensitivity
of LCA at Baseline Conditions |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Quality
of landscape character |
High |
Quality
of landscape resources |
High |
Importance
and rarity |
Medium |
Ability
to accommodate change |
Low |
Local
significance of potential change |
High |
Regional
significance of potential change |
Medium |
Maturity
of Landscape |
High |
Area |
7 Ha |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.6.3.10.a LCA
10: Sensitivity to Potential Change
12.7 Landscape Impact
Assessment
12.7.1 Impacts on Landscape Resources
The largest impact on landscape resources will occur during the
construction phase, when large areas of land will be cleared for site formation
works. These impacts are described in Table 7.1 below:
Table 12.7.1
Impacts on Landscape Resources Before Mitigation
|
||||||
LR Ref.
|
LR
Notation |
Sensitivity
to Change |
Impact
Description |
Source
of Impact |
Magnitude
of Change |
Significance Threshold
|
LR1 |
Tall
Shrubland |
Medium |
Construction:
- Loss
of vegetation: 34 Ha. - Baseline
vegetation cover is 101 Ha. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation. - Replacement
of existing vegetation with approximately 21 Ha of turf grassing area. |
Operation: - New
golf course features replacing existing vegetation. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
|||
LR
2 |
Shrubland |
Medium |
Construction:
- Los
of vegetation: 29 Ha. - Baseline
vegetation cover is 190 Ha. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation. - Replacement
of existing vegetation with approximately 24 Ha of turf grassing area. |
Operation: - New
golf course features replacing existing vegetation. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
|||
LR
3 |
Developing
|
Low |
Construction:
- Loss
of trees: 352 units. - Baseline
tree numbers are in the order of 661 units. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Small |
Construction: Slight Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of trees. |
Operation: - New
golf course features replacing existing vegetation. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Slight Adverse |
|||
LR
4 |
|
High |
Construction:
- Negligible
loss of riparian vegetation (less than 100m2). - Baseline
size is 4.1 ha. - Change
of landform. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works for the footings of the new golf cart bridge. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Loss
of riparian vegetation; - Change
of landform. |
Operation: - Footings
of new golf cart bridge. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LR
5 |
Reservoir |
Low |
Construction:
- Vegetation
clearance: less than 0.5 ha; - Baseline
size is 5.2 ha; and - Minor
construction activities. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
pipe works and pumping station; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation to make way for footings of pumping station. |
Operation: - Minor
replacement of vegetation. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LR
6 |
Mangroves |
High |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LR
7 |
Eroded
slopes |
Low |
Construction:
- Change
of landform. - Approximately
2 ha will be covered by turf grassing areas of the proposed golf course. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
of golf course feature and haul road. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Beneficial |
Operation: - Replacement
of bare soil with golf course grassing. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Slight
/ moderate Beneficial |
|||
LR
8 |
|
High |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Nil |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LR
9 |
Rocky
Beaches |
High |
Construction:
- Loss
of rocky outcrops. |
Construction:
- Construction
of temporary barging point. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Nil |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LR
10 |
Grassing
areas of Existing Golf course |
Medium |
Construction:
- Removal
of turf grassing cover: 5 ha. - Baseline
cover is 63 ha. - Removal
will be temporary. |
Construction:
- Minor
site formation works and installation of irrigation and drainage pipes. |
Construction:
Small |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Nil |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LR
11 |
Stream |
High |
Construction: - Negligible
loss of vegetation in stream B and C for bridge footings and box culvert
settings. A dry tributary of B (part with no perennial flow) will be
converted to underground culvert. - Negligible
loss of vegetation in main tributary of stream A due to construction of
bridge footings. - Loss
of vegetation and water habitat in secondary tributary of stream A. - Total
baseline running length of streams is 1.6km. - Loss
of stream B dry tributary will be approximately 120m in running length. - Loss
of stream A secondary tributary will be approximately 50m in running length. |
Construction:
- Construction
of underground culvert in dry tributary of stream B. - Construction
of bridge footings. - Construction
of underground culvert in secondary tributary of stream A. |
Construction:
Small |
Construction: Moderate
Adverse |
Operation:
- Permanent loss of water habitat and vegetation in dry tributary of stream B and secondary tributary of stream A. construction of bridge footings. |
Operation: - Underground
culverts and bridge footings. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Moderate
Adverse |
12.7.2 Impacts on Landscape Character
Areas
Table 12.7.2 below describes the impact on landscape character
areas.
Table
12.7.2
Impacts on Landscape Character Areas Before Mitigation |
||||||
LCA Ref.
|
LCA
Notation |
Sensitivity
to Change |
Impact
Description |
Source
of Impact |
Magnitude
of Change |
Significance Threshold
|
LCA 1
|
Existing
Kau Sai Chau Golf Courses |
Medium |
Construction:
- Loss
of natural vegetation and turf grassing cover: 10 ha. - Existing
LCA size is 134 ha. - Change
of landform; and - Temporary
change of landscape quality. |
Construction:
- Construction
of desalination plant and building extensions; - Cutting
of hill for desalination plant; - Temporary
storage of building and plant material; and - Pipe
works along main access road and to existing reservoir. |
Construction:
Small |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation; - Change
of hill form at proposed desalination plant; and - Existing
buildings will be larger. |
Operation: - Desalination
plant and building extensions; - Cut
of hill for desalination plant; and - Disturbance
of land above Irrigation and drainage pipes. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
LCA
2 |
|
Low |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LCA
3 |
Tai
Leng Ridge |
High |
Construction:
- Loss
of vegetation: 4 ha; - Existing
LCA size is 53 ha; and - Minor
change of landform. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
and use of haul road; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation; - Change
of knoll profile; - Loss
of natural features. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
|||
LCA
4 |
Yi
Leng Ridge / Valley |
Low |
Construction:
- Vegetation
clearance: 11 ha; - Existing
LCA size is 51 ha. - Change
of landform; - Redevelopment
of some eroded slopes. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
and use of haul road; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation; - Change
of valley floor and slope profile; - Loss
of natural features. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
LCA
5 |
Coastal
Ridge |
High |
Construction:
- Vegetation
clearance: 12 ha; - Existing
LCA size is 27 ha; and - Change
of landform, especially profile of knolls. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
and use of haul road; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation; - Change
of valley floor and slope profile; - Loss
of natural features. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
LCA
6 |
Coastal
Valley |
High |
Construction:
- Vegetation
clearance: 10 ha; - Existing
LCA size is 21 ha; - Change
of landform; and - Minor
alteration of stream banks. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
and use of haul road; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Large |
Construction: Significant
Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation; - Change
of valley floor and slope profile; - Dominant
man-made features; and - Loss
of natural features. |
Operation: - New
golf course features; and - Construction
of golf course associated infrastructure, including bridge and lake. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
|||
LCA
7 |
Coastal
Hills |
High |
Construction:
- Loss
of vegetation: 17 ha; - Existing
LCA size is 40 ha; - Change
of landform; and - Operation
of temporary pier. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
and use of haul road, temporary pier temporary storage of building material
and construction plant; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Large |
Construction: Significant
Adverse |
Operation: - Loss
of vegetation; - Change
of valley floor and slope profile; and - Loss
of natural features. |
Operation: - New
golf course features; and - Construction
of golf course associated infrastructure, including bridge and lake. |
Operation: Large |
Operation: Significant Adverse |
|||
LCA
8 |
Lower
Coastal Hills |
High |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Nil |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LCA
9 |
Northern
Coastal Hills |
High |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Nil |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
LCA
10 |
Western
coastal Hills |
High |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Nil |
Operation: - Nil. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
12.8 Visual Baseline
Conditions
12.8.1 Introduction
This section describes the visual baseline conditions of all
visually sensitive receiver (
Drawing Nos. 24213/LVIA/0230, - / 0231 and - / 0232 illustrate the
key visual features of amenity value to VSRs. Drawing No. 24213/LVIA/0230
illustrates the works boundaries, the visual envelope and the location of VSRs.
12.8.2 Visual Baseline Conditions
12.8.2.1
The northern part of this small island has a large number of
graves that are occasionally visited for ceremonial reasons. A government
public pier is also located at this end. Footpaths cross the island. Small
parts of the new golf course, in particular Hole 5 will be visible from the
pier and most graveyard locations.
The majority of the works will be visible from the footpaths.
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
Medium |
Quality
of existing views |
Medium |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
Medium to High |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Low |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Medium |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Medium |
Degree
of visibility |
High |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.8.2.1.a
12.8.2.2
This
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
High |
Quality
of existing views |
Medium |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Long |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
High |
Degree
of visibility |
High |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.8.2.2.a
12.8.2.3
VSRs on vessels East of Kau Sai Shau towards the approach of
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
High |
Quality
of existing views |
High |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Long |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Short |
Degree
of visibility |
High |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.8.2.3.a
12.8.2.4
From its location directly West of the dam wall of the High Island
Reservoir, VSRs can view elevated areas of the existing golf course. The
ridgeline of Tai Tau Chau screens views to some degree. The Site of the third
golf course will also be partially screened by the same ridgeline. The dam wall
of the High Island Reservoir influences the overall quality of views from this
location negatively.
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
Medium |
Quality
of existing views |
Medium |
Availability
of alternative views |
Medium |
Amenity
of alternative views |
Medium |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Medium |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Short |
Degree
of visibility |
Medium |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.8.2.4.a
12.8.2.5
This
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
High |
Quality
of existing views |
High |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group in future |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Long |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
High |
Degree
of visibility |
High |
Sensitivity
Rating |
High |
Table 12.8.2.5.a
12.8.2.6
Golf players on the existing golf courses will be able to view the
third golf course from several locations in the South of the existing
courses. Most of these views will be to the central valley of the third course.
The eroded scars on steep valley slopes influence views negatively at present.
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
Medium |
Quality
of existing views |
High |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Long |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Medium |
Degree
of visibility |
High |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.8.2.6.a
12.8.2.7
This
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
High |
Quality
of existing views |
Medium |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group in future |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Long |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
High |
Degree
of visibility |
High |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.8.2.7.a
12.8.2.8
This
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
Medium |
Quality
of existing views |
Medium |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Short |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Low |
Degree
of visibility |
Low |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.8.2.8.a
12.8.2.9
Visitors to Kau Sai Chau gain access via the pier. The existing
golf course is only partially visible from this location. The third golf course
itself will not be visible, however parts of the desalination plant will be
visible. The present view is characterised by a small natural appearing knoll,
the pier deck, a sand holding area and natural slopes with dense vegetation.
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
Low |
Quality
of existing views |
Medium |
Availability
of alternative views |
Medium |
Amenity
of alternative views |
Medium |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Short |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Low |
Degree
of visibility |
Low |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Low |
Table 8.2.9.a
12.8.2.10
Golf players on the existing golf courses will be able to view the
third golf course from several locations in the West of the existing
courses. This
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
Medium |
Quality
of existing views |
High |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group |
Medium |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Short |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Low |
Degree
of visibility |
Low |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.8.2.10.a
12.8.2.11
As explained in Section 12.4 of this LVIA, a number of existing
and future VSRs within the
Sensitivity
of |
|
Sensitivity
Parameter |
Rating |
Value
of existing views |
High |
Quality
of existing views |
High |
Availability
of alternative views |
High |
Amenity
of alternative views |
High |
Number
of VSRs in group |
High |
Duration
of views to new golf course |
Short |
Frequency
of views to new golf course |
Low |
Degree
of visibility |
Low |
Sensitivity
Rating |
Medium |
Table 12.8.2.11.a
12.9 Visual Impact
Assessment
12.9.1 Impacts on VSRs
Table 9.1 below describes the impact of the proposed third golf
course on the visually sensitive receivers.
Table
12.9.1
Impacts on Visually Sensitive Receivers Before Mitigation |
||||||
|
|
Sensitivity
to Change |
Impact
Description |
Source
of Impact |
Magnitude
of Change |
Significance Threshold
|
|
Burial
Site on Tai Tau Chau |
Medium |
Construction:
- Vessel
movement will change the character of views when delivering building material
and plant to site. The viewing distance will be approximately 100m; and - Change
in the quality of views. The viewing distance to the nearest construction
works will be approximately 500m. |
Construction:
- Construction
vessel movement; - Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of visual character from partially cultivated golf course and natural
landscape with to predominantly cultivated golf course with patches of
natural landscape. The viewing distance to the nearest permanent works is
approximately 600m. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
|
Lo Fu
Tiu Pai |
High |
Construction:
- Vessel
movement will change the character of views when delivering building material
and plant to site; The viewing distance will be approximately 300m; and - Change
in the quality of views. The viewing distance to the temporary barging point
will be approximately 500m. |
Construction:
- Construction
vessel movement; - Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Large |
Construction: Significant Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of visual character from natural landscape with eroded slopes to cultivated
golf course. The viewing distance to the nearest permanent golf course
features will be approximately 600m. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
|||
|
Vessel
|
High |
Construction:
- Vessel
movement when delivering building material and plant to site will affect the
character of views. Tourist vessels will use the same route than construction
vessels and the viewing distance could be closer than 100m; and - Change
of quality of views. The viewing distance to the nearest works areas will be
approximately 500m |
Construction:
- Construction
vessel movement; - Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Large |
Construction: Significant Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of visual character from natural landscape to cultivated golf course. The
viewing distance to the nearest permanent golf course features will be
approximately 500m. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
|||
|
Chong
Hing Water Sports Centre |
Medium |
Construction:
- Vessel
movement will change the character of views when delivering building material
and plant to site at a distance of approximately 1.4 km; and - The
temporary barging point will be viewed at a distance of approximately 1.8 km
and will affect the quality of views. |
Construction:
- Construction
vessel movement; - Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Small |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of visual character from natural landscape to cultivated golf course. The
nearest views of permanent works will be 1.9km. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
|||
|
Proposed
Golf Course (South) |
High |
Construction:
- Nil.
Construction works will not affect future VSRs as they will only become VSRs
during the operation phase. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Cultivated
golf course features and remnants of the natural landscape will compose the
future character of the site. Future VSRs will view this type of landscape.
The works will not change their future view, but rather comprise it. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Moderate
Adverse |
|||
|
Existing
Golf Course (South) |
Medium |
Construction:
- Change
of view quality and character by site formation works that will be carried
within less than 50m from viewpoints. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
pipe works and pumping station; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Large |
Construction: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of view character and quality. The nearest permanent new golf course works
will be less than 50m away from the existing golf course. The character will
however be similar to that of the existing course. |
Operation: - Minor
replacement of vegetation. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Moderate
Adverse |
|||
|
Proposed
Golf Course (North) |
Medium |
Construction:
- Nil.
Construction works will not affect future VSRs as they will only become VSRs
during the operation phase. |
Construction:
- Nil. |
Construction:
Negligible |
Construction: Negligible |
Operation: - Cultivated
golf course features and remnants of the natural landscape will compose the
future character of the site. Future VSRs will view this type of landscape.
The works will not change their future view, but rather comprise it. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
|
Vessel
to Pier |
Medium |
Construction:
- The
character of views will be altered by construction activities. Public and
private vessels will use the same route as construction vessel and at times
be within less than 100m from them. - Minor
construction activities. |
Construction:
- Construction
vessels; - Site
formation works; - Construction
pipe works and pumping station; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Small |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of view character due to the loss of vegetation and site formation works. |
Operation: - Views
to salt water pumping station and cut in hill of desalination plant. |
Operation: Intermediate |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
|
Ferry
Pier |
Low |
Construction:
- Vessel
movement when delivering building material and plant to site; - Site
formation works, especially for the construction of the desalination plant
and slat water pumping station. These facilities will be located within less
than 20m from the nearest viewpoints; - Delivery
of materials for the construction of building extensions. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of visual character. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
|
Existing
Golf course (West) |
Medium |
Construction:
- Change
of visual character, especially due to the construction of the desalination
plant, which require a cut in the small hill behind the existing pier. |
Construction:
- Site
formation works; - Construction
pipe works and pumping station; - Construction
of desalination plant; and - Vegetation
clearance. |
Construction:
Small |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Change
in visual character due the cut in the hill behind the pier. The desalination
plant will not be visible from this location. |
Operation: - The
cut in the hill of the desalination plant. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
|||
|
YMCA
Wong Yi Chau Youth Camp |
Medium |
Construction:
- Vessel
movement when delivering building material and plant to site will affect the
character of views. The nearest viewing distance to construction vessels will
be approximately 400m. - Change
of quality of views. The viewing distance to the nearest works areas will be
approximately 1.7 km. |
Construction:
- Construction
vessel movement; - Site
formation works; and - Clearance
of vegetation. |
Construction:
Intermediate |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Operation: - Change
of visual character from natural landscape to cultivated golf course. The
viewing distance to the nearest permanent golf course features will be
approximately 1.7km. |
Operation: - New
golf course features. |
Operation: Small |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
12.10 Recommended Landscape and Visual
Impact Mitigation Measures
12.10.1 Introduction
In order to mitigate landscape and visual impacts, mitigation
measures will be implemented. These can be categorised in the following groups:
§
Construction areas;
§
Tree planting;
§
Shrub and groundcover planting;
§
Engineering infrastructure: bridges, desalination plant, pumping
stations and water tanks; and
§
Buildings: extensions of existing, halfway houses and rain
shelters.
12.10.2 Standards, Legislation and
Guidelines
The landscape and visual mitigation design has been carried out
with respect to the following requirements:
§
§
Application for Tree Felling or Transplanting for private projects
- LAO Practice Note No. 8/2002;
§
Management and Maintenance of Natural Vegetation and Landscape
Works, and Tree Preservation – WBTC No. 14/2002;
§
Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features – ETWB TCW
No. 2/2004;
§
Management of Man-made Slopes and Emergency Repair on Stability of
Land – WBTC No. 26/99;
§
Control of Visual Impact on Slopes – WBTC 17/2000;
§
Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment and Bio-engineering
form Man-made Slopes and Retaining Walls – GEO Publication No. 1/2000; and
§
EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2002.
12.10.3 Mitigation Measures
Construction
Areas
§
MC 1: Site
offices and construction yards:
-
Site offices and the construction yard shall be decommissioned
after construction.
-
Haul roads shall be decommissioned and restored with hydroseeding
works after construction.
§
MC 2: Height
of site offices:
-
The height of site offices shall be controlled in order to avoid
visual impacts.
§
MC 3: Hoarding
and screening:
-
Where practical the site offices areas, construction yards and
storage areas shall be screened using olive green coated hoarding or vegetation
around the peripheries of the works area until the completion of relevant
construction phases.
§
MC 4: Construction
plant and building material:
-
Shall be orderly and carefully stored in order to appear neat and
avoid visibility from outside where practical;
-
Excess materials shall be removed from site as soon as practical;
-
All construction plant shall be removed from site upon completion
of construction works.
§
MC 5: Construction
light:
-
To be oriented away from the viewing location of VSRs; and
-
All lighting shall have frosted diffusers and reflective covers.
§
MC 6: Vegetation:
-
Temporary construction sites shall be restored to standards as
good as, or better than, the original condition. In this respect, areas that
are not covered by golf course grassing works shall be hydro seeded;
-
The potential for soil erosion shall be reduced at the
construction stage by minimizing the extent of vegetation disturbance on site
and providing a protective cover over exposed ground; and
-
No plant or building materials shall be stored under the dripline
of retained trees and no vehicle movement or other construction activities like
washing, concrete mixing etc shall be carried out under the dripline of trees.
Tree Preservation, Planting and Buffer Areas
§
MT 1: Compensation
for losses:
-
The
tree compensation to tree loss ratio shall be between 2:1 and 3:1;
At least 700
new trees shall have be of light standard or larger size To compensate
for the loss of trees a total number of 967 trees will be planted; 733
of these trees will be between light standard and heavy standard size. The
majority of compensatory tree planting will be from species that occur on the
existing site. With respect
to the number of trees, the loss to compensation ratio will be approximate 1:3.
A summary of tree survey report is shown in Appendix
A12.1.
§
MT 2: The
majority of compensation species shall comprise species that already occurs
within the LIA boundaries;
§
MT 3: Where
practical, trees that require removal shall be transplanted on Site;
§
MT 4: Planting
Works:
-
New trees shall be planted in groups in order to screen visual
impacts and to provide additional shade at the administration building, rainshelters
and halfway houses.
§
MT 5: Tree
Planting on Slopes:
-
New slopes with a gradient larger than 30o shall have
whip tree planting.
-
Such whip trees shall comprise tree species with shrub-like
characteristics, such as Gordonia axillaries (大頭茶) and Raphiolepis indica (車輪梅);
§
MT 6: Tree
planting works at the hill where the desalination plant will be located shall
be carefully positioned in order to represent its original profile.
§
MT 7: Tree
Preservation:
-
No tree shall be transplanted or felled without prior approval by
relevant Government departments in accordance with WBTC 24/94, WBTC 14/2002 and
ETWB 2/2004;
-
All trees that are marked for retention shall be fenced off with a
1.2m high fence around the dripline of trees or larger area;
-
Transplant preparation works shall be carried as soon as possible
after commencement of construction. Rootball and crown pruning shall be carried
out over at least 1 month.
§
MT 8: Buffer
Areas
-
For streams the width of the buffer zones will be
20m from the stream bank. The only
exception would be the buffer zone in the reach of upper tributary of stream B
lying between the two parts of Hole 10, where the buffer will zone will be 5m,
the dry tributary of stream B that will be converted to an underground culvert
and the secondary tributary of stream A that will also be converted to an
underground culvert.
-
No construction activities will be allowed in the buffer zones,
except for site formation works, which are required for the construction of
bridge footings.
Shrub and Ground Cover Planting
§
MS 1: Bulk
hydroseeding:
-
Bulk site formation works shall be followed with bulk hydroseeding
as soon as practical.
§
MS 2: Grassing:
-
In the case of golf course areas, grassing shall be carried out as
soon as practical after sanding and shaping; and
-
Sanding, shaping and grassing works shall be phased in sections.
§
MS 3: Restoration:
-
In the case of residual areas that were disturbed during
construction, which will not be part of the golf course areas, detailed site
formation works and shaping shall be followed by hydroseeding and shrub
planting as soon as practical; and
-
The hydroseeding mix shall be composed
of the following grass species: Erograstic curvula Lolium Perenne Neyraudia reynaudiana
Pennisetum purpureum; and the following shrub / small tree
species: Gordonia axillaries, Rhaphiolepis indica and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa.
Engineering infrastructure: bridges, desalination plant, pumping
stations and water tanks
§
ME 1: Screening:
-
Bridges and pumping stations shall be screened by tree and shrub planting;
and
-
Retaining wall shall be covered with climber plants.
§
ME 2: Abutments
of bridges shall be surfaced with stone of volcanic origin with a colour and
texture similar to that of rock in the surrounding landscape;
§
ME 3: Above-ground
walls and foundations of pumping stations shall be surfaced with stone of
volcanic origin with a colour and texture similar to that of rock in the
surrounding landscape;
§
ME 4: Above-ground
covers of pumping stations shall have an olive green coating;
§
ME 5: The
desalination plant shall be located within the hill behind the pier. Slope
cutting of this hill shall have a natural appearance with hydroseeding cover;
§
ME 6: Water
tanks shall be located below surface level. Above-ground components shall be
coated in olive green.
Buildings: extensions of existing, halfway houses and rain
shelters
§
MB 1: Extensions
of the clubhouse shall have a surface cover that is in visual harmony with the
administration building itself;
§
MB 2: Shrub
planting shall be implemented in front of the new golf cart parking area in
order to screen low level views;
§
MB 3: Tree
and shrub planting shall be implemented on the peripheries of the maintenance
building and its extensions; and
§
MB 4: Halfway
houses and rain shelters shall be surfaced with either stone or beige and olive
green paint.
12.11 Residual Landscape Impacts
12.11.1 Introduction
This section describes the landscape impacts that will remain
after the implementation of mitigation measures.
12.11.2 Residual Landscape Resource Impacts
Table
12.11.2 below describes the residual impacts on landscape resources.
Table 12.11.2
Impacts on Landscape Resources Before and After Mitigation
|
||||
LR Ref.
|
LR
Notation |
Impact
Before Mitigation |
Proposed
Mitigation Measures |
Impact After
Mitigation
|
LR 1
|
Tall
Shrubland |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MS 1 MS 3 MT 7 |
Construction:
Moderate Adverse |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MS 1 MS 3 MT 7 |
Operation: Slight / Moderate Adverse |
||
LR
2 |
Shrubland |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MS 1 MS 3 MT 7 |
Construction:
Moderate Adverse |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MS 1 MS 3 MT 7 |
Operation: Slight / Moderate Adverse |
||
LR
3 |
Developing
woodland and trees |
Construction: Slight Adverse |
Construction:
MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MT 6 MT 7 |
Construction:
Slight Adverse |
Operation: Slight Adverse |
Operation: MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MT 6 MT 7 |
Operation: Slight / Moderate Beneficial Remark: The tree stock will increase and be
diversified as a result of tree planting works. |
||
LR
4 |
|
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Nil |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LR
5 |
Reservoir |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
MS 1 MS 3 |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: MS 1 MS 3 |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LR
6 |
Mangroves |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
MT 7 |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: MT 7 |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LR
7 |
Eroded
slopes |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Beneficial |
Construction:
MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Construction:
Slight /
Moderate Beneficial |
Operation: Slight
/ moderate Beneficial |
Operation: MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Operation: Moderate Beneficial Remarks: Restoration of the slopes will
improve the overall visual appearance and prevent future losses of vegetation
due to erosion. |
||
LR
8 |
|
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Nil |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LR
9 |
Rocky
Shorelines |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Nil |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LR
10 |
Grassing
areas of existing golf course |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 6 MS 1 MS 2 MT 7 |
Construction:
Slight Adverse Remark: Grassing works will
commence after completion of shaping works. Shaping works will be carried out
in sections. Sectional works will be programmed over the course of
construction activities. Therefore some grassing areas will be implemented,
by the time shaping works commence in other areas. |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: MS 1 MS 2 MT 7 |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LR
11 |
Stream
|
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MT 7 MT 8 |
Construction:
Moderate Adverse Remark: a) Mitigation
measures aim to protect the remaining streams and watercourses. Realignment
of existing streams and the creation of new streams are impractical. b) Existing
trees located on stream banks will be preserved with the exception of trees
that will be removed due to bridge footing works. Compensation will be
carried out in the case of losses. |
Operation: Moderate
Adverse |
Operation: MT 8 |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
12.11.3 Residual Landscape Character
Area Impacts
Table
12.11.3 below describes the residual impacts on landscape character areas.
Table 12.11.3
Impacts on Landscape Character Areas Before and After Mitigation
|
||||
LCA
Ref.
|
LR
Notation |
Impact
Before Mitigation |
Proposed
Mitigation Measures |
Impact After
Mitigation
|
LCA
1 |
Existing
Kau Sai Chau Golf Courses |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 6 MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 5 MB 1 MB 2 MB 3 |
Construction:
Slight /
Moderate Adverse Remarks: Mitigation measures will
serve to minimise some construction impacts, however due to the extent of
required site formation works, the affect of such mitigation measures will be
minimal. |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MC 6 MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 5 MB 1 MB 2 MB 3 |
Operation: Slight Adverse |
||
LCA
2 |
|
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Nil |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LCA
3 |
Tai
Leng Ridge |
Construction: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Construction:
MC 6 MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MT 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 MB 4 |
Construction:
Moderate Adverse |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Operation: MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MT 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 MB 4 |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
||
LCA
4 |
Yi
Leng Ridge / Valley |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 – MC6 MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 ME 2 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Construction:
Slight Adverse |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 ME 2 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Operation: Slight Adverse Remarks: Mitigation measures will restore the
original character of this LCA to some degree. Disturbed residual areas will
eventually be covered by natural vegetation. However, the future character
will be defined by cultivated turf grassing areas and natural landscape
features. |
||
LCA
5 |
Coastal
Ridge |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 6 MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Construction:
Slight /
Moderate Adverse Remarks: Construction phase
mitigation measure will minimise the extent of impacts to some degree. Impacts will be extensive during the
site formation period, which will be temporary. Once bulk hydroseeding has
established, the impact on this LCA will decrease to Slight Adverse. |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Operation: Slight adverse |
||
LCA
6 |
Coastal
Valley |
Construction: Significant
Adverse |
Construction:
MC 6 MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Construction:
Moderate /
Significant Adverse |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Operation: MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Operation: Slight / Moderate Beneficial Remarks: Slope stabilisation works will
improve the character of this LCA. The character will be transformed from
disturbed natural to cultivated / natural. |
||
LCA
7 |
Coastal
Hills |
Construction: Significant
Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 - 6 MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Construction:
Moderate /
Significant Adverse |
Operation: Significant Adverse |
Operation: MT 1 MT 2 MT 3 MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
||
LCA
8 |
Lower
Coastal Hills |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Nil |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LCA
9 |
Northern
Coastal Hills |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Nil |
Operation: Negligible |
||
LCA
10 |
Western
coastal Hills |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: Nil |
Operation: Negligible |
12.12 Residual Visual Impacts
12.12.1 Introduction
This section describes the visual impacts that will remain after
the implementation of mitigation measures.
12.12.2
Residual
Impacts on Visually Sensitive Receivers
Table 12.12.2 Below describes the impacts on VRS after the
implementation of mitigation measures.
Table 12.12.2
Impacts on Visually Sensitive Receivers Before and After Mitigation
|
||||
|
|
Impact
Before Mitigation |
Proposed
Mitigation Measures |
Impact After
Mitigation
|
|
Burial
Site on Tai Tau Chau |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 MC 2 MC 3 MC 4 MC 5 MC 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Construction:
Slight /
Moderate Adverse |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 MB 4 |
Operation: Slight / Moderate Adverse |
||
|
Lo Fu
Tiu Pai |
Construction: Significant Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 MC 2 MC 3 MC 4 MC 5 MC 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Construction:
Moderate Adverse |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 MB 4 |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
||
|
Vessel
|
Construction: Significant Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 MC 2 MC 3 MC 4 MC 5 MC 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Construction:
Moderate Adverse |
Operation: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 MB 1 MB 4 |
Operation: Moderate Adverse |
||
|
Chong
Hing Water Sports Centre |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 MC 2 MC 3 MC 4 MC 5 MC 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Construction:
Slight Adverse |
Operation: Negligible |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 MB 4 |
Operation: Negligible |
||
|
Proposed
Golf Course (South) |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible Remarks: No mitigation is required
during the construction phase, since future VSRs will only exist after
construction phase. |
Operation: Moderate
Adverse |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 ME 2 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Operation: Slight Adverse |
||
|
Existing
Golf Course (South) |
Construction: Moderate
/ Significant Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 MC 2 MC 3 MC 4 MC 5 MC 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Construction:
Moderate Adverse Remarks: After bulk hydroseeding
works the visual impacts will be greatly reduced. Moderate adverse impacts
will therefore only present during bulk site formation works. |
Operation: Moderate
Adverse |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 ME 2 ME 3 ME 4 ME 6 MB 4 |
Operation: Slight / Moderate Adverse |
||
|
Proposed
Golf Course (North) |
Construction: Negligible |
Construction:
Nil |
Construction:
Negligible Remarks: No mitigation is
required, since future VSRs will only exist after completion of the
construction phase. |
Operation: Slight
Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 ME 2 ME 3 ME 4 MB 1 MB 3 MB 4 |
Operation: Slight Adverse |
||
|
Vessel
to Pier |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 4 MC 5 MS 1 MS 3 |
Construction:
Slight /
Moderate Adverse Remarks: Mitigation measures will
minimise the degree of impacts to some degree during the construction phase.
However complete mitigation is not practical. |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 5 MT 6 ME 1 ME 3 ME 4 ME 5 |
Operation: Negligible |
||
|
Ferry
Pier |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 4 MC 5 MS 1 MS 3 |
Construction:
Slight Adverse |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 5 MT 6 ME 1 ME 3 ME 4 ME 5 |
Operation: Slight
Adverse |
||
|
Existing
golf course (West) |
Construction: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 4 MC 5 MS 1 MS 3 |
Construction:
Slight Adverse |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 5 MT 6 ME 1 ME 3 ME 4 ME 5 MB 1 MB 2 MB 3 MB 4 |
Operation: Negligible |
||
|
YMCA
Wong Yi Chau Youth Camp |
Construction: Moderate Adverse |
Construction:
MC 1 MC 2 MC 3 MC 4 MC 5 MC 6 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 |
Construction:
Negligible |
Operation: Slight
/ Moderate Adverse |
Operation: MT 4 MT 5 MS 1 MS 2 MS 3 ME 1 MB 4 |
Operation: Negligible |
12.13 Environmental
Monitoring and Audit Manual
Table 12.13.1 below defines the environmental management and audit
criteria.
Table
12.13.1
Environmental Monitoring and Audit Reference Table |
|||||||
EM&A Ref.
|
Environmental
Protection Measure |
Location |
Implementation
Agent |
Implementation
Stage |
Relevant
Legislation and Guidelines |
||
Design |
Construction |
Operation |
|||||
MC 1
|
Site offices and construction yards: -
Site offices and the construction yard
shall be decommissioned after construction. -
Haul roads shall be decommissioned and
restored with hydroseeding works after construction. |
All
site offices |
All contractor |
|
Yes |
|
|
MC
2 |
Height of site offices: -
The height of site offices shall be
controlled in order to avoid visual impacts. |
All site
offices |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
|
MC
3 |
Hoarding and screening: -
Where practical the site offices
areas, construction yards and storage areas shall be screened using olive
green coated hoarding or vegetation around the peripheries of the works area
until the completion of relevant construction phases. |
All
site office and construction yard areas. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MC
4 |
Construction plant and building material: -
Shall be orderly and carefully stored
in order to appear neat and avoid visibility from outside where practical; -
Excess materials shall be removed from
site as soon as practical; -
All construction plant shall be removed from site
upon completion of construction works. |
In
all construction yards. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
EIAO Guidance
Note No. 8/2002 |
MC
5 |
Construction light: -
To be oriented away from the viewing
location of VSRs; and -
All lighting shall have frosted
diffusers and reflective covers. -
While construction at night might be
required from time to time, this should be controlled and minimised as far as
practical. |
All
construction lights. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
|
MC
6 |
Vegetation: -
Temporary construction sites shall be
restored to standards as good as, or better than, the original condition. In
this respect, areas that are not covered by golf course grassing works shall
be hydro seeded; -
The potential for soil erosion shall
be reduced at the construction stage by minimizing the extent of vegetation
disturbance on site and providing a protective cover over exposed ground; and -
No plant or building materials shall
be stored under the dripline of retained trees and no vehicle movement or
other construction activities like washing, concrete mixing etc shall be
carried out under the dripline of trees. |
All
temporary construction sites. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
|
MT
1 |
Compensation for losses: -
The tree compensation to tree loss
ratio shall be between 2:1 and 3:1; -
At least 700 new trees shall have be of light
standard or larger size. |
As
shown on mitigation measures plans. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
LAO
Practice Note No. 8/2002 EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MT
2 |
The majority of compensation species shall comprise
species that already occurs within the LIA boundaries; |
General. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
LAO
Practice Note No. 8/2002 EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MT
3 |
Where practical, trees that require removal shall be
transplanted on Site; |
General. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
LAO
Practice Note No. 8/2002 EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MT 4 |
New trees shall be planted in groups in order to screen
visual impacts and to provide additional shade at the administration
building, rain shelters and halfway houses. |
As
shown on mitigation measure plans. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
LAO
Practice Note No. 8/2002 EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MT
5 |
Tree Planting on Slopes: -
New slopes with a gradient larger than
30o shall have whip tree planting. -
Such whip trees shall comprise tree species with
shrub-like characteristics, such as Gordonia axillaries (大頭茶) and Raphiolepis indica (車輪梅). |
General. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
LAO
Practice Note No. 8/2002 EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MT
6 |
Tree planting works at the hill where the desalination
plant will be located shall be carefully positioned in order to represent its
original profile. |
At
the desalination plant. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
LAO
Practice Note No. 8/2002 EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MT
7 |
Tree Preservation: -
No tree shall be transplanted or
felled without prior approval by relevant Government departments in
accordance with WBTC 24/94, WBTC 14/2002 and ETWB 2/2004; -
All trees that are marked for
retention shall be fenced off with a 1.2m high fence around the dripline of
trees or larger area; -
Transplant preparation works shall be carried as
soon as possible after commencement of construction. Rootball and crown
pruning shall be carried out over at least 1 month. |
All
areas with existing trees |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
WBTC 24/94 WBTC 14/2002 ETWB 2/2004 |
MT
8 |
Buffer Areas -
For streams the width of the buffer zones will be
20m from the stream bank. The
only exception would be the buffer zone in the reach of upper tributary of
stream B lying between the two parts of Hole 10, where the buffer will zone
will be 5m, the dry tributary of stream B that will be converted to an
underground culvert and the secondary tributary of stream A that will also be
converted to an underground culvert. -
No construction activities will be allowed in the
buffer zones, except for site formation works, which are required for the
construction of bridge footings. |
At
streams |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
|
MS
1 |
Bulk hydroseeding: -
Bulk site formation works shall be followed with
bulk hydroseeding as soon as practical. |
General. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MS
2 |
Grassing: -
In the case of golf course areas,
grassing shall be carried out as soon as practical after sanding and shaping;
and -
Sanding, shaping and grassing works shall be
phased in sections. |
At
proposed grassing areas. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MS
3 |
Restoration: -
In the case of residual areas that
were disturbed during construction, which will not be part of the golf
course areas, detailed site formation works and shaping shall be followed by
hydroseeding and shrub planting as soon as practical; and -
The hydroseeding mix shall be composed of the
following grass species: Erograstic curvula Lolium Perenne Neyraudia
reynaudiana Pennisetum purpureum; and the following shrub / small tree
species: Gordonia axillaries, Rhaphiolepis indica and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa. |
At
all residual areas. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
|
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
ME
1 |
Screening: -
Bridges and pumping stations shall be
screened by tree and shrub planting; and -
Retaining wall shall be covered with climber
plants. |
All
bridges and pumping stations. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
ME
2 |
Abutments of bridges shall be surfaced with stone of
volcanic origin with a colour and texture similar to that of rock in the
surrounding landscape; |
All
bridges. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
ME
3 |
Above-ground
walls and foundations of pumping stations shall be surfaced with stone of
volcanic origin with a colour and texture similar to that of rock in the
surrounding landscape. |
All
pumping stations. |
All contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
ME
4 |
Above-ground
covers of pumping stations shall have an olive green coating. |
All
pumping stations. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
ME
5 |
The
desalination plant shall be located within the hill behind the pier. Slope
cutting of this hill shall have a natural appearance with hydroseeding cover. |
As
shown on the mitigation measure plans. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
ME
6 |
Water
tanks shall be located below surface level. Above-ground components shall be
coated in olive green. |
All
water tanks. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MB
1 |
Extensions
of the clubhouse shall have a surface cover that is in visual harmony with
the clubhouse itself. |
All
new extensions of the clubhouse. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MB
2 |
Shrub
planting shall be implemented in front of the new golf cart parking area in
order to screen low-level views. |
The
new golf cart parking area. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MB
3 |
Tree
and shrub planting shall be implemented on the peripheries of the maintenance
building and its extensions. |
At
the maintenance building. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
MB
4 |
Halfway
houses and rain shelters shall be surfaced with either stone or beige and
olive green paint. |
At
all halfway houses and rain shelters. |
All
contractor |
|
Yes |
Yes |
EIAO
Guidance Note No. 8/2002 |
12.14 Provisional Programme of Landscape
Works
The construction stage will commence in the last quarter of 2005
and is scheduled form completion in mid 2007.
Tree felling and transplantation works will be carried out by
early 2006during the first phase of site formation works.
Tree planting works, golf course grassing, shrub planting and
hydroseeding works will be carried out in phases after site formation works of
any particular phase.
12.15 Funding, Implementation, Management
and Maintenance of Landscape Works
The Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course Limited will be
the sole agent responsible for the funding, implementation, management and
maintenance of landscape works. It will employ a main contractor to carry out
the construction works together with its specialist domestic and nominated
sub-contractors.
12.16
Summary and Conclusions
The overall impact of the third golf course on the landscape and
visual environments is acceptable with mitigation measures.
The impact on landscape resources after mitigation is in general
acceptable. The most extensive adverse impact will be on tall shrubland and
shrubland, which will for the most be replaced by grassing areas of the new
golf course. Beneficial impacts on landscape resources will result from the
restoration of eroded slopes. All affected areas will be covered with golf
course turf or hydroseeding. The hydroseeding areas will be managed to allow
for the reestablishment tall shrubland and shrubland. The hydroseeding mix,
which will comprise of native shrubs with grass seeds will encourage this
process.
The landscape character will be transformed from one that is
essentially a natural hillside – valley landscape to one that has a golf course
character with natural features. The overall impact of this transformation will
be acceptable, since the major geomorphologic features will stay in tact.
Impacts on visually sensitive receivers will be acceptable. The
majority of