7                     LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT

 

Introduction

 

7.1                This section assesses the potential landscape and visual impacts arising from the proposed Tuen Mun Area 54 Sewage Pumping Station in Tuen Mun Area 54, in accordance with the criteria and guidelines as stated in Annexes 10 and 18 of the TM and EIAO. Landscape and visual impacts of any above ground structures and work areas associated with the Project during both construction and operation stages within the study area will be assessed. Key elements of the proposed works are described below:-

 

         To construct and operate a new sewage pumping station with dimension of 43m(L) x 22m (W) x 7m (H) close to Tsz Tin Road, with a capacity of over 90,000m3 per day to collect sewage mainly from Tuen Mun Area 54 to the existing sewers at Ming Kim Road.

 

 

Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

 

7.2                A review of the existing and planned development framework of the proposed works and surrounding area is undertaken as input to the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA). The aim is to identify any issues within the neighbouring planned land uses, and therefore to identify potential VSRs, and to ensure a high compatibility between the proposed project and the surroundings.

 

7.3                Reference is made to the Tuen Mun Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) No. S/TM/24, and Site Layout Plan of the Tuen Mun Area 54 Sewage Pumping Station from Drainage Services Department (refer to chapter 2).

 

7.4                The Project is located in the eastern part of Site 4A of Tuen Mun Area54, north of Kei Lun Wai, south of Tse Tin Tsuen and west of Site 2 of Tuen Mun Area 54. Site 4A is zoned “Government, Institution or community”(GIC) on the Tuen Mun Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) No. S/TM/24 and is reserved for school development. Site 2 is zoned “Residential (Group A)” on the Tuen Mun OZP No. S/TM/24

 

Environmental Legislation and Standards

 

7.5                The methodology for undertaking the LVIA takes reference from Annexes 3, 10 and 18 of EIAO–TM, and in accordance with EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2002.

 

7.6                Other landscape documents relevant for the preparation of the LVIA include:

 

         Government General Regulation 740 – restrictions on the preservation and felling of trees in Hong Kong

 

         The Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap96) – prohibits felling, cutting, burning or destroying of trees and growing plants in forests and plantations on government land. Its subsidiary regulations prohibit the picking, felling or possession of listed rare and protected plant species

 

         The Forestry Regulations – made under Section 3 of the Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96), defined the list of protected species in Hong Kong

 

         ETWBTC No. 2/2004 – sets out the government departmental responsibilities for maintenance of vegetation and hard landscape features

 

         WBTC No. 3/2006 – Tree Preservation, which defines and outlines the management and maintenance responsibilities for natural vegetation and landscape works, and the authorities for tree preservation and felling

 

         WBTC No. 25/93 – Control of Visual Impact of slopes, outlines the design principles recommended to be used in designing man-made slopes for Public Works projects in order to reduce their adverse visual impact

 

         WBTC 17/2000 – Improvement to appearance of slopes, outlines the principles and procedures recommended for all departments involved in new slope works and maintenance of existing slopes for improving aesthetic and environmental impact of slope works

 

         WBTC No. 7/2002 Tree planting in Public Works, affirms the advocated policy on tree planting which adopts a flexible and balanced approach in the planning and design of public works

 

         WBTC No. 29/2004 Registration of Old and Valuable Trees, and Guidelines for their Preservation

 

         GEO publication No. 1/2000 ‘Technical Guidelines on landscape treatment and Bio-engineering for Man-Made Slopes and Retaining Walls’

 

         Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapter 4, “Open Space”

 

         Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapter 10 “Conservation”

 

         Technical Reports of Landscape Value Mapping in Hong Kong by Planning Department – establishes the essential landscape baseline information which provides a systematic reference framework to facilitate landscape assessment

 

         DSD Publication – Guidelines on Aesthetic Design of Pumping Station Buildings

 

         DSD TC No. 9/2006 – Vetting Committee on Aesthetic Design of Pumping Station Building (VCAB)

 

 

Assessment Methodology

 

7.7                The Project is a designated project (DP) under the EIAO and the methodology adopted for the Project conforms to the requirements of the EIAO. The methodology consists of the following tasks:

 

         Baseline study of landscape and visual resources

         Landscape impact assessment

         Visual impact assessment

         Recommendation on landscape and visual mitigation measures

         Identification of residual impacts

 

Baseline Study of Landscape and Visual Resources

 

7.8                The study area for the landscape impact assessment shall include all areas within 500 meters from the Project. The study area for the visual impact assessment shall be defined by the visual envelope of the Project. The defined visual envelope is shown on Figure 7.4.1.

 

7.9                The baseline study identified and examined the existing landscape and visual resources within the study area. An aerial photograph is used to show the overall study area and labelled to indicate the Landscape Character Areas (LCAs), while photographs would be given to demonstrate the Landscape Resources (LRs).

 

              Landscape Resources (LRs)

 

7.10             Landscape Resources (LRs) considered the following elements:

 

         Natural and secondary woodland

         Amenity planting

         Scrubland and grassland

         Natural topography

         Significant planning designation, e.g. Country Park, Green Belt

         Heritage or cultural features

 

Landscape Character Area (LCA)

 

7.11             Field and desk surveys of topographical maps, information databases and photographs would identify the landscape character (LCA) of the study area. The character of the landscape is derived from its physical components related to its visual amenity, cultural association and heritage value. Elements to be considered include:

 

         Land use

         Public use of land

         Extent of vegetation

         Age of landscape

         Cultural, heritage and religious elements

         Scale and type of buildings

         Pattern of settlement

         Location and topography

         Extent of natural vs manmade

 

 

7.12              The baseline study describes the LRs by identifying broadly homogenous Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) of a similar character. The sensitivity of LR / LCAs are rated low, medium or high. This is influenced by a number of factors including whether the resources / character is common or rare, whether it is considered to be of local, regional, national or global importance, whether there are any statutory limitations / requirements relating to the resource/ character, the quality of the resource / character, the maturity of the resource, and the ability of the resource / character to accommodate change.

 

Sensitivity

Definition

High

Important components of landscape of particularly distinctive character susceptible to relatively small changes

Medium

A landscape of moderately valued characteristics reasonably tolerant of change

Low

A relatively unimportant landscape, the nature of which is largely tolerant to change

 

 

Visual Resources

 

Zone of Visual Influence/ Visual Envelope (ZVI)

 

7.13              Visual resources are considered as typical viewpoints, with location and direction of views towards the proposed works. A Zone of Visual Influence/ Visual Envelope is established which approximately defines the extent of visual influence of the proposed works, and therefore, of the potential visual impacts. This is achieved by site visit and desk-top study of topographic maps and photographs, and preparation of cross-sections to determine visibility of the project from various locations.

 

Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

 

7.14             Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs) who would be present at typical viewpoints and key views, and likely to be affected by the proposed works, are identified within the visual envelope. VSRs are defined as individuals or groups of whom are sensitive to changes in the visual environment. Residents, users of open space/recreational facilities, road users (private and public transport users), schools, tourists and people working within the visual envelope shall be considered as VSRs.

 

7.15             Each type of VSR is assigned with a number. Description of the view from each VSR towards the proposed works in terms of location of VSRs, type of VSRs, and direction of view towards the proposed works, are given and assigned in accordance with the relative tolerance to change of the VSRs.

 

7.16             The sensitivity of VSRs is determined by Factors considered include:

 

         the type of VSRs, which is classified according to whether the person is at home, at work, at school, at play, or travelling. Those who view the impact from their homes are considered to be highly sensitive as the attractiveness or otherwise of the outlook from their home would have a substantial effect on their perception of the quality and acceptability of their home environment and their general quality of life. Those who view the impact from their workplace and at school are considered to be only moderately sensitive as the attractiveness or otherwise of the outlook would have a less important, although still material, effect on their perception of their quality of life. The degree to which this applies depends on whether the workplace is industrial, retail or commercial. Those who view the impact whilst taking part in an outdoor leisure activity may display varying sensitivity depending on the type of leisure activity. Those who view the impact whilst traveling on a public thoroughfare would also display varying sensitivity depending on the speed of travel.

 

         other factors which are considered (as required by EIAO GN 8/2002) include the value and quality of existing views, the availability and amenity of alternative views, the duration or frequency of view, and the degree of visibility.

 

7.17             The sensitivity of VSRs is classified as follows:

 

High:

The VSR is highly sensitive to any change in their viewing experience.

Medium:

The VSR is moderately sensitive to any change in their viewing experience.

Low:

The VSR is only slightly sensitive to any change in their viewing experience.

·              Identification of relative numbers of VSRs. This is expressed in term of whether there are very few, few, medium or many VSRs in any one category of VSR.

·              Identification of potential sources of visual impacts. These are the various elements of the construction works and operation procedures that would generate visual impacts.

·              Assessment of the potential magnitude of visual impacts. Factors considered include

·           the compatibility with the surrounding landscape,

·           the duration of the impact,

·           the reversibility of the impact,

·           the scale of the impact and distance of the source of impact from the viewer, and

·           the degree of visibility of the impact, and the degree of which the impact dominates the field of vision of the viewer.

 

Assessment Methodology - Landscape Impacts

 

7.18             The assessment of the potential landscape impacts would result from:

 

         Identification of the source of impact, their magnitude, that would be generated during construction and operation of the project; and

         Identification of principal impacts, primarily in consideration of the degree of change to the baseline conditions.

 

7.19             The magnitude of change for landscape impact assessment would be determined by the following factors:

 

         Compatibility of the project with the surrounding landscape

         Duration of impacts under construction and operation phases

         Scale of the impact

         Reversibility of change

 

7.20             The impacts are considered systematically as a product of the sensitivity of the LCAs and the magnitude of change of the impacts to the landscape. The magnitude of the change in the landscape is rated large, intermediate, small and negligible as follows:

 

Magnitude of Change

Definition

Large

Notable permanent change in the landscape characteristics over an extensive area ranging to very intensive changes over a more limited area

Intermediate

Moderate changes in a localized area

Small

Virtually imperceptible change or temporary change

Negligible

Virtually no changes in the area

 

7.21             The following factors are considered to the judgement of the overall landscape impacts:

 

         The landscape character and its quality

         The sensitivity of the landscape in accommodating change

         Source, nature and magnitude of potential impacts

         Construction and operation phases impacts

         Degree of change caused by each of the impacts to the existing LCAs

         Significance of this change in the local and regional context and in relation to other developments

         Cumulative effects on the landscape of this and neighbouring projects

         Amenity of alternative views

 

7.22             The overall impact likely to occur to LCAs, is derived from the magnitude of change which the project would cause to the existing landscape and ability to tolerate the change. A matrix shall be used to demonstrate the relationship between receptor sensitivity and impact magnitude in defining significance

 

 

Sensitivity / Quality of the landscape

Low

Medium

High

Magnitude of Change

Large

moderate

Moderate /

Substantial 

Substantial

Intermediate

Slight / Moderate 

Moderate 

Moderate /

Substantial 

Small

Slight 

Slight/ Moderate

Moderate

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

 

7.23             Furthermore the impacts need to be identified as Adverse, Beneficial or Neutral, which indicate the impact on the existing landscape context as follows:

 

Identification of the Landscape Impact

Definition

Adverse

An impact which will be detrimental to the existing landscape context

Beneficial

An impact which will improve the existing landscape context

Neutral

An impact which will alter the existing landscape context but not to improve or destroy it

 

7.24             The product of the LIA is termed the Significance Threshold, and shall be considered as follows:

 

Impacts

Substantial

Adverse/beneficial impact where the proposal would cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality

Moderate

Adverse/beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality

Slight

Adverse/beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in the existing landscape quality

Insubstantial

No discernible change in the existing landscape quality

 

 Methodology - Visual Impacts

 

7.25             The baseline survey forms the basis of the visual impact assessment, and shall result from:

 

         Identification of the source of visual impacts, their magnitude of change and sensitivity of the receivers, that would be generated during construction and operation of the project, and;

         Identification of principal visual impacts, primarily in consideration of the degree of change to the baseline conditions

 

The magnitude of change for visual impact assessment would be determined by the following factors:

 

         Compatibility of the proposed project with the surrounding landscape

         Duration of impacts during construction and operation stages

         Scale of impact and distance of the source of impact from the viewer

         Reversibility of impact

         Potential blockage of the view

 

7.26             The impacts are considered systematically as a product of the sensitivity of the VSRs and the magnitude of change of the impacts to the visual quality. The magnitude of visual impacts are rated large, intermediate, small and negligible as follows:

 

 

The magnitude of visual impacts is classified as follows:

Large:

The VSRs would suffer a major change in their viewing experience.

Intermediate:

The VSRs would suffer a moderate in their viewing experience.

Small:

The VSRs would suffer a small change in their viewing experience.

Negligible:

The VSRs would suffer no discernible change in their viewing experience.

 

7.27             The overall impact likely to occur to VSRs, is derived from the magnitude of change which the project would cause to the existing visual context and its ability to tolerate the change. A matrix shall be used to demonstrate the relationship between receptor sensitivity and impact magnitude in defining significance:

 

7.28             The following shows the rationale for dividing the degree of significance into four thresholds, namely insubstantial, slight, moderate, and substantial, depending on the combination of a negligible-small-intermediate-large magnitude of impact and a low-medium-high degree of sensitivity of landscape resource/character.

Relationship between Receptor Sensitivity and Impact Magnitude in Defining Impact Significance

Magnitude of Impact (Change)

Large

Moderate

Moderate / Substantial

Substantial

Intermediate

Slight / Moderate

Moderate

Moderate / Substantial

Small

Slight

Slight / Moderate

Moderate

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

 

Low

Medium

High

Receptor Sensitivity (of Landscape Resource, Landscape Character Area or VSRs)

 

7.29             Furthermore the impacts need to be identified as Adverse, Benefit or Neutral, which indicate the impact on the existing visual context as follows:

 

Identification of the Visual Impact

Definition

Adverse

An impact which will be detrimental to the existing views

Beneficial

An impact which will improve the existing views

Neutral

An impact which will alter the existing views but not to improve or destroy it

 

Identification of Potential Landscape and Visual Impact Mitigation Measures

7.30             After assessing the landscape and visual impacts of the proposed works which likely to occur and how significant these impacts would be, recommendations would then be formulated to reduce or alleviate these impacts both during the construction and operation stages. Identified impacts would be described and mitigation measures recommended. The agencies responsible for the funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the mitigation measures have been identified and their approval-in-principle will be sought. 

 

Identification of Residual Impacts

 

7.31             This is a further assessment to establish residual impacts that persist after the implementation of mitigation measures.

 

7.32             The principles for undertaking the residual impact assessment are similar to the landscape and visual impact assessments. Significance threshold for the residual impacts would be established to consider the impacts against the successfulness of the recommended mitigation measures to alleviate such impacts.

 

Baseline Study

 

Landscape Resources (LR)

 

7.33             Landscape resources are identified and mapped in Figure 7.2.1. Photo views illustrating the landscape resources are illustrated in Figures 7.2.2. This has been achieved by site visit and desk-top study of topographical maps, information databases and photographs. Landscape resources (LR) are listed and a description of each LR is summarized in Table 7.1 and as follows:-

 

LR1 – Farmland / Orchard

 

The areas identified as agriculture include orchards and farmland. Orchards are common around villages and dwellings. This LR is dominated by Dimocarpus longan and Litchi chinensi while other typical orchard species such as  wampi, breadfruit, mango and citrus trees can also be found.  Farmlands include a wide variety of species including cabbages, coriander, lettuce, etc, which located in the Jockey Club Farm House and Siu Hang Tsuen. These farmlands and orchards contribute significantly to the agri-rural visual character within the study area, especially those areas around the Siu Hang Tsuen and Po Tong Ha. Trees in this LR1 were generally fair in health condition and possess medium amenity value. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be high.

 

LR2 – Woodland / Dense Semi-Natural Hillside Vegetation

 

Several areas of Woodland/Dense Semi-natural hillside vegetation occur in the study area. The major areas are 1) an area located to the southwest of Kei Lun Wai; 2) and area located to north of Union Garden; 3) an area located in Tse Tin Tsuen, Siu Hang Tsuen and Po Tong Ha. Some species in this LR included Acacia confuse, Ficus microcarpa, Sapium discolour and Mallotus paniculatus etc. These woodlands, together with the grassland/shrub areas create a green backdrop to the valley and contribute to the visual quality within the study area. However, much of these woodlands are interspersed with village houses, and their associated vehicular access road. As a consequence to this, the woodland here tends to be poor in scale. Trees in this LR2 were generally fair in health condition and possess medium amenity value. In additional to this, haphazard development and open storage yard has encroached on these woodland area. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be high.

 

LR3 – Scrubland / Grassland

 

Grassland and scrubland are located within the study area, which are located adjacent to the Tsz Tin Tsuen and Po Tong Ha. All are formed by abandoned / vacant land; therefore, the amenity value and visual character of many of these areas are low. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be low.

 

LR4 – Roadside Planting

 

Roadside planting has been included as a landscape resource as it can provide highly significant contribution to the green corridor and landscape character within the study area. There are two significant areas of continuous roadside planting in the study area. These areas are 1) along Tsing Lun Road and 2) along Hong Po road. All are formed by mature trees species, Acacia confusa, Bauhinia spp., Ficus microcarpa, Casuarina equisetifolia, Celtis sinensis, Macaranga tanariu, etc. Most trees in this LR are fair in form and health as a result of maintenance from related authorities. Generally speaking, trees in this LR have an amenity value of medium. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be medium.

 

LR5 – Urban Residential Open Space

 

Residential development consists of public open space and sitting areas are located in Siu Hong Court adjacent to West Rail Siu Hong Station. The character of the open space is represented by a mixed land use of high rise residential development, primary school, secondary school and football field sports ground adjacent to Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Yau Tsz Tin Memorial College. The planting in this LR is more ornamental in nature, dominated by species such as Bauhinia spp, Ficus microcarpa, Delonix regia and Cassia siamea.  The landscape sensitivity to change and amenity value of this area is judged to be low.

 

LR6 – Drainage Channel

 

There are several drainage channels within the study area. There are generally in a natural and rocky state on the hillsides but tend to be channelised and diverted to box culvert for flooding prevention in the low level valley floor. Vegetation is limited in the LR area. The landscape quality and amenity value of these drainage channels is generally low. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be low.

 

Landscape Character Area (LCA)

 

7.34             The study area consists of seven distinct landscape character zones. These are described below and indicated in Figures 7.3.1 & 7.3.2. A summary is provided in Table 7.1.

 

         LCA 1 – Urban Peripheral Village Landscape Character Area, which represents the villages such as Tsz Tin Tsuen, Po Tong Ha, Siu Hang Tsuen and Kei Lun Wai.  They consist typically of grouped village houses, all separated by narrow footpaths of lanes. At the periphery of the villages may be sitting areas, car parks and sometimes, scattered fruited fruit trees and agricultural fields. Vegetation typically consists of scattered mature trees, e.g. Ficus microcarpa, and peripheral woodland on hillsides, or scrub in abandoned fields. All these result in an intimate and informal domestic landscape of small scale features, which stands in stark contrast to the urban development, e.g. Siu Hong Court & West Rail Siu Hong Station, around them. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be highs. .

 

         LCA 2 – Farmland Landscape Character Area, which represents all area for agricultural usage, including the new life farm managed by government, Castle Peak Government Farm, Jockey Club Farm House and farmlands between Siu Hang Tsuen and Tsz Tin Tsuen. Several of these fields are abandoned. They provide a remanent agrarian character in the study area. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be medium.

 

 

         LCA 3 – Hillside Landscape Character Area, which represents all hillside plantation area, which located to the south of Kei Lun Wai. The upland areas of Kei Lun Wai form the physical and visual boundary of the study area. They are essentially natural areas comprising of wooded and grassland slopes. This upland form a scenic backdrop surrounding the Kei Lun Wai and are an important visual resources. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be high.

 

         LCA 4 – Open Storage Landscape Character Area, which represents all areas used for vehicle parking or storage yards for large shipping containers in Po Tong Ha, Siu Hang Tsuen, Kei Lun Wai and Tsz Tin Tsuen. These containers are even sometimes stacked up to seven containers high and years cover large areas of the landscape creating major landscape and visual impact within the study area. Many yards have been created through the filling of ponds and clearing of plantation. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be low.

 

         LCA 5 – High-Rise Residential Urban Landscape Character Area, which represents all mixed use of high-rise residential zone organized on a orthogonal grid, commercial and retail uses, and public open space, such as Siu Hong Court. Vegetation includes amenity planting on podium garden and planting alongside roads and carriageways. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be medium.

 

         LCA 6 –Institutional Landscape Character Area, which represents all government institutions and public utilities such as Castle Peak Hospital, Tuen Mun E.A.S.Y. Services centre, The Jockey Club Perseverance Hall, The Jockey Club Serene House, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun Skills Opportunity School Substation, Castle Peak Hospital Nurses Quarter, and Jockey Club Tuen Mun Home for the Aged Blind. They generally comprise extensive medium rise complexes of buildings separated by open spaces used for parking or circulation, with a high coverage of semi-formal landscape and vegetation. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be medium.

 

         LCA 7 – Transport Corridor Landscape Character Area, which represents vehicular roads such as Tuen Mun Road Highway and West Rail Siu Hong Station. They are linear landscapes, whose major features are the highways and railways that define them.  Between the roads and railways are landscaped embankments and islands, generally with a semi-mature amenity vegetation of trees and shrubs. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be low.

 

 

Table 7.1            List of the Landscape Resources and Landscape Character Area affected during Construction & Operational Phase

LR

Landscape Resources

Dominant Tree Species

Area(Ha) within Study Area

Amenity Value

Sensitivity to Change

LR 1

Farmland / Orchard

Dimocarpus longan, Litchi chinensis, etc.

4.0

Medium

High

LR 2

Woodland / Dense Semi-Natural Hillside Vegetation

Acacia confusa, Ficus microcarpa, Sapium discolor, Sapium sebiferum, Mallotus paniculatus, Litsea glutinosa, Casuarina equisetifolia, Celtis sinensis, Sterculia lanceolata, Casuarina equisetifolia, Musa paradisiaca, Macaranga tanarius, and other native tree species, etc.

 

7.4

Medium

High

LR 3

Scrubland / Grassland

N.A.

1.3

Low

Low

LR 4

Roadside Planting

Acacia confusa, Bauhinia spp., Ficus microcarpa, Casuarina equisetifolia, Celtis sinensis, Macaranga tanariu, etc.

 

1.1

Medium

Medium

LR 5

Urban Residential Open Space

Bauhinia spp., Ficus microcarpa, Delonix regia, Cassia siamea, etc.

 

8.0

Low

Low

LR 6

Drainage Channel

N.A.

 

0.9

Low

Low

 

LCA

Landscape Character Area

Area(Ha) within Study Area

Sensitivity

Landscape Resources

LCA1

Urban Peripheral Village Landscape Character Area

 

37

High

LCA2

Farmland Landscape Character Area

 

9.8

Medium

LCA3

Hillside Landscape Character Area

 

1.5

High

LCA4

Open Storage Landscape Character Area

 

17.6

Low

LCA5

High-Rise Residential Urban Landscape Character Area

 

9.4

Medium

LCA6

Institutional Landscape Character Area,

 

9.6

Medium

LCA7

Transport Corridor Landscape Character Area

 

1.6

Low

 

7.35             It is considered that the landscape impact on proposed SPS is mainly found within the site boundary. There is no significant landscape impact on the rest of 500m study area extensively. No existing tree will be affected within the site boundary.

 

Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

 

7.36             The Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) does not vary between construction and operational phase. The ZVI for both phases is indicated in Figure 7.4.1. Due to the large flat area, the ZVI is quite extensive and is generally defined by the following:-

 

                            High rise residential development of Siu Hong Court;

                            High rise residential development of Po Tin Estate

                            Ridgeline of Yuen Tau Shan and Castle Peak

 

 

7.37             Table 7.2 indicates the key Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs) found within the ZVI’s for the construction phase and operational phase. For ease of reference, each VSR is given an identity number, and mapped in Figures 7.4.1 and with photographic record in Figure 7.4.2, 7.4.3 & 7.4.4.

 

7.38             The magnitude of the Visual impacts, before implementation of mitigation measures, on the VSRs that would occur in the operation phase are described and tabulated in Table 7.3.  All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated.

 

 


Table 7.2          Visual Sensitive Receivers (VSRs) and their Sensitivity to Change (Note: All impacts adverse unless otherwise noted.)

 

Id. No.

Key Visual Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

Type of VSRs

Number of Individuals (Many/ Medium/ Few/ Very Few)

Quality of Existing View

(Good/ Fair/ Poor)

Availability of Alternative Views

(Yes/ No)

Amenity of Alternative view

(Good/ Fair/ Poor)

Degree of Visibility (Full/ Partial/ Glimpse)

Frequency and Duration of View (Very Frequent/ Frequent/ Occasional/ Rare)

Sensitivity to Change

(Low, Medium, High)

Construction

Operation

Residential Receivers

R1

Planned high rise Public Housing Development at Site 2

Residential

Many

Good

Yes

Good

Full

Frequent

N.A

High

R2

Planned high rise Public and private housing Residential Site 3 & 4

Residential

 Many

Good

Yes

Good

Full

Frequent

N.A

High

R3

Planned high rise Public Housing  Residential Site 1 & 1A

Residential

Many

Fair

Yes

Fair

Partial

Frequent

N.A

Medium

R4

High rise residential development  - Siu Hong Court

Residential

Many

Good

Yes

Good

Partial

Frequent

High

High

V1

Village development - Union Garden and Kei Lun Wai

Residential

Many

Fair

Yes

Fair

Glimpse

Frequent

High

High

V2

Village development -Po Tong Ha, Siu Hang Tsuen and Tsz Tin Tsuen

Residential

Many

Fair

Yes

Fair

Glimpse

Frequent

High

Medium

Occupational Receivers

GIC1

Planned Schools in Site 4A

(3 primary and 3 secondary schools)

Working staff, students

Many

Fair

Yes

Fair

Full

Occasional

N.A

medium

GIC2

Castle Peak Hospital and Tuen Mun Hospital

Working Staff, patient

Many

Good

Yes

Good

Glimpse

Occasional

medium

medium

Recreational Receivers

O1

Planned District Open Space in Site 4A

Recreational user

Many

Fair

Yes

Fair

Partial

Occasional

N.A.

Large

Travelling Receivers

T1

Planned Road L54B

Travelers

Many

Fair

Yes

Fair

Partial

Rare

N.A.

Low

 

Table 7.3          VSRs and Their Magnitude of Impacts (Note: All impacts adverse unless otherwise noted.)

 

Id No.

Key Visual Sensitive Receiver (VSR)

Potential Blockage of View of the Development from VSR

(High l/ Low/ None

Viewing Distance

 

(M)

Scale of Development

(when viewed from this VSR)

(Large/ Medium/ Small)

Compatibility

 

(Good/ Fair/ Poor)

Reversibility of Change

 

(Yes/ No)

Magnitude of Impacts

(Large/ Intermediate/ Small/ Negligible

Construction

Operation

Residential Receivers

R1

Planned high rise Public Housing Development at Site 2

Low

160

Medium

Fair

No

N.A

Small

R2

Planned high rise Public and private housing Residential Site 3 & 4

None

160

Medium

Fair

No

N.A

Small

R3

Planned high rise Public Housing  Residential Site 1 & 1A

None

400

Small

Fair

No

N.A

Small

R4

High rise residential development  - Siu Hong Court

Low

280

Small

Fair

No

Small

Small

V1

Village development - Union Garden and Kei Lun Wai

Low

50

Large

Fair

No

Intermediate

Intermediate

V2

Village development Po Tong Ha, Siu Hang Tsuen and Tsz Tin Tsuen

None

150

Medium

Fair

No

Negligible

Negligible

Occupational Receivers

GIC1

Planned Schools in Site 4A (3 primary and 3 secondary schools)

Low

0

Medium

Poor

No

N.A

Large

GIC2

Castle Peak Hospital and Tuen Mun Hospital

None

250

Medium

Poor

No

Small

Small

Recreational Receivers

O1

Planned Schools in Site 4A (3 primary and 3 secondary schools)

High

30

Large

Fair

No

N.A.

Intermediate

Travelling Receivers

T1

Planned Road L54B

High

0

Large

Fair

No

N.A>

Small

 


Landscape Impact Assessment (LIA)

 

7.39             The nature and extent of the Tuen Mun Area 54 Sewage Pumping Station works, works areas and the construction methodologies are described in detail in Chapter 2. For easy of reference, the extent of works at ground level, including all contractors’ temporary works area, are shown on all the plans illustrating landscape and visual impacts in this section.

 

7.40             The sources of landscape and visual impacts in the construction phase will include:-

 

               construction works involving the removal of existing vegetation;

               construction of site access;

               excavation works for the inlet chamber and inlet sewer ;

               stockpiling of excavated materials;

               haulage off-site of excavated materials

               stockpiling of construction materials;

               importation and storage of construction equipment and plant;

               contractor’s temporary works areas, including site accommodation and parking area;

               night lighting;

 

7.41             During the operation stage, potential landscape and visual impacts would be related to the following visible above ground structures:

                                 New sewage pumping station 43m(L) x 22m (W) x 7m (H) above ground level) within Site 4A;

 

Nature and Magnitude of Landscape Change Before Mitigation in Construction Phase

 

7.42             The magnitude of the impacts, before implementation of mitigation measures, on the landscape resources and LCA that would occur in the construction phase are described below and tabulated in Table 7.4. All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated.

 

Landscape Impacts at Construction Stage before Mitigation

 

7.43             The potential significance of landscape impacts during the construction and operation phases, before and after mitigation, is provided below in Table 7.4.  The assessment follows the proposed methodology and assumes that the appropriate mitigation measures identified in Tables 7.6 and 7.7 above would be implemented, and the full effect of the soft landscape mitigation measures would be realized after 10 years.  Photomontages of the proposed project without and with mitigation measures are illustrated in Figure 7.7.1.  The locations of the viewpoints are indicated in Figure 7.4.1

 

LR1 - Farmland / Orchard 

 

7.44             Existing agriculture, orchards and plantation areas (LR1).is located at the northern edge of proposed work. However, no tree would be affected within the site boundary.  The sensitivity of this resource is high. The magnitude of the change here is considered intermediate and unmitigated impact significance is moderate.  The rest of LR impact will be insubstantial as the Project boundary is limited in designated area.

 

LCA2 – Farmland Landscape Character Area  

 

7.45             The character of the farmland landscape character area will be modified by the construction of an incongruous building mass, temporary works areas, additional construction traffic, storage of construction material and general loss of plantation. The sensitivity of this resource is medium. The magnitude of the change here is considered intermediate and unmitigated impact significance is moderate.

 

7.46             There would be negligible magnitude of impact on all the remaining landscape resources and landscape character area.

 

Residual Landscape Impacts at Construction Stage after Mitigation

 

7.47             Residual landscape impacts on landscape resources in the construction phase are mapped in Figure 7.5.1. Residual landscape impacts on LCA in the construction phase are mapped in Figure 7.5.3.

 

7.48             After the implementation of mitigation measures both LR1 and LCA2, landscape Impact will be lessen visually as additional trees will be planted along the boundary of the proposed pumping station for screening and possible loss of greenery.

 

Landscape Impacts at Operation Stage before Mitigation

 

7.49             The landscape impact in operation stage will be same as construction stage stated in Section 7.47 and 7.48 is provided below Table 7.4 and mapped in Figure 7.5.2

 

Residual Landscape Impacts at Operation Stage after Mitigation

 

7.50             Residual landscape impacts on landscape resources in the operation phase are mapped in Figure 7.5.2. Residual landscape impacts on LCA in the operational phase are mapped in Figure 7.5.4.

 

7.51             All residual adverse landscape impacts in the operational phase of Day 1 will be of insubstantial significance. After all landscape mitigation measures are implemented and have matured over 10 years, there would be no residual adverse landscape impacts of any significance in Year 10.

 

 

 

 


Table 7.4          Significance of landscape adverse impacts in the construction and operation phases (Note: All impacts adverse unless otherwise noted. Only those resources or character areas that are impacted are listed in the table – resources not impacted are not listed. )

 

Part 1 – Physical Landscape Resources (Topography, Vegetation, Soil, Open Space, Special Features, etc)

Id. No.

Landscape Resources (LR)

Sensitivity to Change

(Low, Medium, High)

Magnitude of Change before Mitigation

(Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large)

Impact significance Threshold Before Mitigation

(Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance Threshold After Mitigation

(Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

DAY 1

YEAR 10

LR1

Farmland / Orchard

High

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate

Moderate

 CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, CM7, CM8, OM1

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR2

Woodland / Dense Semi-Natural Hillside Vegetation

High

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR3

Scrubland / Grassland

Low

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR4

Roadside Planting

Medium

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR5

Urban Residential Open Space

Low

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR6

Drainage Channel

Low

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

 


 

Part 2 – Landscape Character Areas

Id. No.

Landscape Character Area (LCA)

Sensitivity to Change

(Low, Medium, High)

Magnitude of Change before Mitigation

(Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large)

Impact significance Threshold Before Mitigation

(Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance Threshold After Mitigation

(Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

DAY 1

YEAR 10

LCA1

Urban Peripheral Village Landscape Character Area

 

High

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LCA2

Farmland Landscape Character Area

 

Medium

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate

Moderate

 CM1 to CM8, OM1 to OM3

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LCA3

Hillside Landscape Character Area

 

High

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LCA4

Open Storage Landscape Character Area

 

Low

Small

Small

Slight

Slight

CM2 to CM8, OM1 to OM3

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LCA5

High-Rise Residential Urban Landscape Character Area

 

Medium

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LCA6

Institutional Landscape Character Area,

 

Medium

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LCA7

Transport Corridor Landscape Character Area

 

Low

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

N/A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

 

 

 


Table 7.5          Significance of visual adverse impacts in the construction and operational phases

(Note: All impacts adverse unless otherwise noted.)

 

VSR

Type & ID

Key Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)

Degree of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact (Full, partial, glimpse)

Minimum distance between VSR & Source(s) of Impact

Magnitude of Change in View before Mitigation (negligible, small, intermediate, large)

Receptor Sensitivity (Low, medium, High)

Impact significance threshold before mitigation

(insubstantial, slight, moderate, substantial)

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance Threshold after Mitigation (insubstantial, slight, moderate, substantial)

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

DAY 1

YEAR 10

Residential

R1

Planned high rise Public Housing Development at Site 2

Partial

160m

N.A

Small

N.A

High

N.A

Slight

OM1, OM2, OM3

N.A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

R2

Planned high rise Public and private housing Residential Site 3 & 4

Partial

160m

N.A

Small

N.A

High

N.A

Slight

OM1, OM2, OM3

N.A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

R3

Planned high rise Public Housing  Residential Site 1 & 1A

Glimpse

400m

N.A

Small

N.A

Medium

N.A

Slight

 OM1, OM2, OM3

N.A

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

R4

High rise residential development  - Siu Hong Court

Partial

280m

Small

Small

High

High

Slight

Slight

CM1 to CM6,

OM1, OM2, OM3

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

V1

Village development - Union Garden and Kei Lun Wai

Partial

50m

Intermediate

Intermediate

High

High

Moderate

Moderate

CM1 to CM6,

OM1, OM2, OM3

Moderate

Slight

Insubstantial

V2

Village development -Po Tong Ha, Siu Hang Tsuen and Tsz Tin Tsuen

Glimpse

150m

Negligible

Negligible

High

Medium

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

CM1 to CM6,

OM1, OM2, OM3

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Occupational

GIC1

Planned Schools in Site 4A

(3 primary and 3 secondary schools)

Full

0m

N.A

Large

N.A

Medium

N.A

Moderate

OM1, OM2, OM3

N.A

Slight

Insubstantial

GIC2

Castle Peak Hospital and Tuen Mun Hospital

Partial

250m

Small

Small

medium

medium

Slight

Slight

CM1 to CM6,

OM1, OM2, OM3

Slight

Slight

Insubstantial

Recreational

O1

Planned District Open Space in Site 4A

Partial

0m

N.A

Intermediate

N.A

High

N.A

Moderate

OM1, OM2, OM3

N.A

Slight

Insubstantial

Traveler

T1

 Planned Road L54B

Glimpse

0m

N.A

Small

N.A

Low

N.A

Slight

OM1, OM2, OM3

N.A

Slight

Insubstantial

 

 


Recommended Landscape & Visual Mitigation Measures in Construction and Operational Phase

 

7.52             The proposed landscape and Visual mitigation measures in the construction and operational phases are listed in Table 7.6 and 7.7 below, together with an indication of Funding, Implementation, and Management and Maintenance agencies.

 

Table 7.6          Proposed Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures in Construction Phase

ID No.

Nature / Type

Visual Mitigation Measure

Funding / Implementation 

Management/ Maintenance

CM1

Design / Construction Planning

No-intrusion Zone

To maximize protection to existing trees, woodland, plantation areas and ground vegetation, construction contracts may designate “No-intrusion Zone” to various areas within the site boundary with rigid and durable fencing for each individual no-intrusion zone.

The contractor should closely monitor and restrict the site working staff not to enter the “no-intrusion zone”, even for non-direct construction activities and storage of equipment. 

CEDD

CEDD

CM2

Design / Construction Planning

Hoarding

Hoarding or boundary fencing for construction shall be considered. It should be sensitively designed, subtle, camouflaged and more ‘permeable’ so that they fit into the existing environment when looking from outside.

CEDD

CEDD

CM3

Site Practice

Minimize disturbance of construction workers

To ensure minimum disturbance to existing village, rustic dwellings and workshops users, construction works may only enter these areas with their helmets and safely vests properly stored or carried in non-transparent bags. They shall also properly and cleanly dress.

The construction contract should require the main contractor to issue guideline to the construction works to minimize disturbance to existing village, rustic dwellings and workshops. .

CEDD

CEDD

CM4

Site Practice

Dust and Erosion Control for Exposed Soil

Excavation works and demolition of existing squatters / workshops which will be highly visible form surrounding areas should be well planned and with precautions to suppress dust.

Exposed soil shall be covered or ‘camouflaged’ and watered often. Areas that are expected to be left with bare soil for a long period of time after excavation shall be properly covered with suitable protective fabric. Silt and erosion shall be controlled by ground barriers around the slope cutting area.

CEDD

CEDD

CM6

Site Practice

Construction Light

All security floodlights for construction sites shall be equipped with adjustable shield, frosted diffusers and reflective covers, and be carefully controlled to minimize light pollution and night-time glare to nearby village.

The Contractor shall consider other security measures which shall minimize the visual impacts.

CEDD

CEDD

CM7

Design / Construction

Re-use of Existing Soil

Existing topsoil shall be re-used where possible for new planting areas within the project.

The construction program shall consider using the soil removed from one phase for backfilling another. Suitable storage ground, gathering ground and mixing ground may be set up on-site as necessary.

CEDD

CEDD

CM8

Site Supervisions/ Establishment Period 

Establishment Period

12 month establishment period for the soft landscape works will be allowed in the main contract. Most construction contracts in Hong Kong require the Contractor to carry out routine horticultural operations, including watering, pruning, weeding, pest control, replacement of dead plants etc. to ensure healthy establishment of new planting during a 12 month establishment period.

This period also serves as a kind of warranty / guarantee on the quality of the plants supplied and installed by the Contractor. 

CEDD

CEDD

 

Table 7.7          Proposed Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures in Operation Phase

ID No.

Nature / Type

Landscape Mitigation Measure

Funding / Implementation 

Management/ Maintenance

OM1

Design / Operation

Re-instatement of excavated Area

All excavated area and disturbed area for utilities diversion, temporary road diversion, and pipeline woks will be reinstated to former conditions, subject to applicable Government Standards.

DSD

DSD

OM2

Design / Operation

Architectural Treatment for the proposed structures

Compatible design, construction materials and surface finishes of the proposed Sewage Pumping Station should be harmony with proposed GIC development within Site 4A. (Open space and 6 nos. schools development) so as to achieve visual uniformity.

Finishing materials shall have due consideration to form, basic color, color/tone variation, micro- and macro-texture, and reflectivity/light absorbance to avoid glare. 

CEDD (Design) /

DSD (Operation)

DSD

OM3

Design / Operation

Greening for the proposed Sewage Pumping Station

Permeable boundary wall with tree and shrub planting (with 1.2m topsoil depth planting strip) shall be used. The tree planting (21 nos. of trees) should be in heavy standard sized (the stem diameter is exceeding 75mm but not exceeding 150mm measure at a height of 1m from the root collar) to provide early screening effect. Trees with normal standard size (the stem diameter is exceeding 45mm but not exceeding 75mm measure at a height of 1m from the root collar) (14 nos. of trees) and shrub are proposed for buffer planting.  The trees would be one or more of following species: Bauhinia blakeana, Bischofia trifoliate, Cassia surattensis, Callistemon rigidus and Magnolia grandiflora.  The shrubs would be one or more of following species: Codiaeum variegatum, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Jasminum sambac, Osmanthus fragrans and Rhododendron pulchrum.  One or more of the following climbers: Bauhinia glauca, Bougainvillea spectabilis, Lonicera japonica, Parthenocissus himalayana, Pyrostegia venusta and Wisteria sinensis, flowers racks or other vertical greening should be installed to soften the monolithic effects of boundary wall.  Green roof with shrub and groundcovers is proposed. 

CEDD (Design) /

DSD (Operation)

DSD

 

 

 

Visual Impact Assessment (VIA)

 

Potential Sources of Visual Impacts

 

7.53             The sources of visual impacts due to the Project would create varying levels of visual impact during the construction and operation phases.  Potential impacts would result from the elements stated in Sections 7.38 and 7.39.

 

Visual Mitigation Measures

 

7.54             The proposed visual mitigation measures in the construction and operation phases are summarized in Tables 7.6 and 7.7 together with an indication of Funding, Implementation, Management and Maintenance Agencies.  The mitigation Measures are illustrated in Figures 7.6.1. Photomontages demonstrating the potential visual impact of the proposed project before and after mitigation are illustrated in Figures 7.7.1

 

Prediction of Significance of Visual Impacts

 

7.55             An assessment of the potential significance of the visual impacts during the construction and operation phases, before and after mitigation is provided in detail in Table 7.5. This follows the methodology outlined in Section 7.7 and assumes that the appropriate mitigation measures identified in Tables 7.6 and 7.7 above would be implemented, and that the full effect of the soft landscape mitigation measures would be realized after ten years.  Photomontages demonstrating the potential visual impact of the proposed project before and after mitigation are illustrated in Figures 7.7.1 which had demonstrated and visualise the relationships and undergoing changes on development of Tuen Mum area 54.

 

7.56             The proposed Sewage Pumping Station in Tuen Mun Area 54 will be completed year 2013; all the rest of new development of VSR R1, R2, R3, GIC1, O1 and T1 will be constructed after the next 5~7 years of SPS in operation. The construction activities on proposed SPS and associated works will mainly have impact on existing VSR R4, V1, V2 and GIS2 and all the rest of VSR are irrelevant.

 

7.57             The main sources of visual impacts of the proposed Sewage Pumping Station in Tuen Mun Area 54 are mostly due to the distance between the VSR; which is the closer to the project the larger sale of impact would have moderate adverse impact on V1, GIC1 and O1 as they are very close to the project; the duration of impact and intermittent change in vision of field on existing viewing corridor.

 

7.58             VSRs on R1, R2, R3, R4, V2, GIC2  and T1 impact are expected to be slight as the proposed development and appeared impact will remain on the front row/ close distance/ high level building. The whole area of Tuen Mun 54 will have massive development of infrastructure and building mass; therefore the proposed SPS would be compatible with the rest of new development. As implementation of mitigation measures take place; all the proposed roof greening and screen planting will be adopted and mature in 10 years time. It is considered that residual adverse impact will be minimize as slight to insubstantial significance.

 

Residual Visual Impacts

 

Construction Phase

 

7.59             Residual visual impacts in the Construction Phase are listed out in Table 7.5.  In the Construction Phases, after the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, there would still be some adverse residual visual impacts are shown in Table 7.5.

 

7.60             With implementation of mitigation measures during construction, there would still be some moderate adverse impact on the V1 adjacent or close to the works area and intermittent change in viewing experience near the residents close to the works boundary.  Residual impacts on VSRs V1 would be slight adverse impact in operation stage when mitigation measure is implemented; the further away VSRs to the works area; impacts would be slight to insubstantial.

 

Operation Phase

 

7.61             Residual visual impacts in the Operation Phase are listed out in Table 7.5.  In the Operation Phase, day 1 after the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, residual visual impacts of some VSRs are slight. But 10 years after the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, residual visual impacts on all VSRs are mostly insubstantial. Except V1, the planned site of school GIC1 and open space O1 would have slight adverse impact on early operation stage due to close distance to works. However as implementation of mitigation measures take place; the proposed roof greening and screen planting will be adopted and tree planting will be mature in 10 years time. The potential visual impact will be lessen as insubstantial.

 

Conclusion

 

Summary of Predicted Residual Landscape Impacts

 

7.62             Residual landscape impacts are listed in Table 7.4 and mapped in Figures 7.5.1 and 7.5.4.

 

7.63             There is no significant landscape impact on the study area extensively. No existing tree will be affected within the site boundary.

 

7.64             The landscape resources of LR1 and landscape character area of LCA2 will be moderately impacted by the construction of an incongruous building mass, temporary works areas, additional construction traffic, and storage of construction material and general loss of farmland plantation. After the implementation of proposed mitigation measures in both LR1 and LCA2, landscape impact will be lessen. In addition to landscape and visual mitigation measures, buffer planting and roof greening for the proposed pumping station will also be recommended in order to provide further screening/ greening effect.

 

Summary of Predicted Residual Visual Impacts

 

7.65             Residual visual impacts are listed in Table 7.5 and mapped in Figures 7.5.5 and Figure 7.5.6

 

7.66             Residents in existing villages of Union Garden and Kei Lun Wai (V1) will have moderate adverse residual impact during construction due to the close distant views to the proposed SPS. The residual visual impact will be slight after implementation of mitigation measures during operation. The proposed TM54SPS will appear impact on the front row/ close distance/ high level building. As R1, R2, R3 building mass and T1 infrastructure will be dominated in entire area of operation stage. The landscape and visual mitigation measures will be implemented with screening on boundary and roof greening to mitigate both impacts on at grade or elevated level. Therefore the proposed Project is expected to be compatible with the rest of new development.

 

7.67             After the proposed mitigation measures have been implemented and the proposed heavy standard sized tree planting will carry out ultimate screening, therefore, all residual adverse landscape and visual impacts in operational phase will be insubstantial significance. Except on VSRs V1, suits 4A of GIC1 \ planned primary and secondary schools and O1 \ planned open space will have slight adverse visual impact which will be lessen as insubstantial after implementation of mitigation measures. The proposed visual mitigation measures in the construction and operation phases are summarized in Tables 7.6 and 7.7, together with an indication of Funding, Implementation, Management and Maintenance Agencies.  The mitigation measures are illustrated in Figures 7.6.1 and Photomontage in 10 years phase in Figure 7.7.1

 

7.68             Overall, it is considered that the residual landscape and visual impacts of the proposed development are considered as acceptable with mitigation measures during construction and operation phases.