11A SCHEDULE 2 DP: PACKAGE A – LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACTS

11.1A Introduction

11.1.1 This section outlines the landscape and visual impact assessment associated with the Schedule 2 DP Package A for roads and road-related infrastructure to confirm the feasibility of the DP proposals.

11.1.2 For Environmental legislation, policies, plans, standards and criteria related to the Schedule 2 DP Package A for roads and road-related infrastructure, refer to Section 11.3 of the Schedule 3 report. Landscape and visual impact assessment approach and methodology can be found under Section 11.7 of the Schedule 3 report.

11.2A Designated Projects under Schedule 2 within NDA Project

11.2.1 Hung Shui Kiu New Development Area (HSK NDA) is a Designated Project (DP) under Item 1 of Schedule 3 of the EIAO. In addition, the Project includes various Schedule 2 DP’s as summarised in Table 11.1. This section outlines the LVIA concerning DP1, DP2, DP5, DP6 and DP12. For further mappings regarding vertical noise barriers along the aforementioned DPs, refer to Figures 4.7.1 – 4.7.15 under Chapter 4. For a full description of the project and a discussion of alternatives, refer to Chapter 2.

Construction of New Primary Distributor Road (Road P1) (DP1)

Primary Distributor Roads (Dual 2 Standard)

11.2.2 The majority of the new primary distributor road (Road P1) located under the existing KSWH at the western Project area (approximately 3.2 km in length), provides a service access with 2 lanes per direction to both the “Industry” areas and the new core area around the proposed HSK Station. Alignment options have been reviewed to minimise impacts on the Deep Bay Link mitigation ponds located in the immediate vicinity of the road, opposite Site 3-26. Three vertical noise barriers are provisioned for Road P1; two 3 m high and one 5.5+4.2 m at 45 degree cantilever. The location and extents of these noise barriers is mapped to Figure 11.24i.

Construction of Eight New Distributor Roads (Roads D1 to D8) (DP2)

District Distributor Roads

11.2.3 A total of eight distributor roads are proposed. All will provide a major role in servicing proposed land uses and existing developments (including villages where linkages have been provided). These comprise:

11.2.4 Road D1: This road provides a partly dual three and partly dual two, west to east primary connection at the northern part of the Project area linking TSW with the KSWH and providing links to district distributors that provide the secondary links to the south of the Project area. The local road from a section of Road D1 near Lau Fau Shan to serve the residential sites and commercial sites in the northern part of the Project area will be restricted to private cars access only. A section of Road D1 from KSWH to road junction of Road D4/D3/D1 will be partly depressed and partly decked-over to allow crossing of the EFTS alignments. A section of Road D1 near roundabout with Tin Wah Road will be in bridge structure (not greater than 30 m in length between abutments) to allow the local road to/from residential sites in the northern part of the Project area in parallel with Lau Fau Shan Road to the end of Site 2-1. One 3 m high and two 5 m high vertical noise barriers are provisioned along Road D1. The location and extents of these noise barriers are mapped to Figures 11.24a and 11.24c.

11.2.5 Road D2: Comprises a north-south primary route that links to Ping Ha Road and Hung Tin Road. Road D2 is planned to dual 2 standards by widening of existing Ping Ha Road to enhance the magnitude of residential development and reduce the environmental adverse noise impact that is realisable in the northeast of the Project area. The link will accommodate the traffic capacity currently carried along the Tin Ying Road and Ping Ha Road and also has the capacity to service existing and proposed development. Most of Road D2 is constructed at-grade, except a section of approximately 450 m which is a depressed road in order to improve pedestrian connectivity between the residential Sites 1-5, 1-6 and 2-31. Eleven vertical noise barriers are provisioned along Road D2; two
4 m high, three 5 m high, four 7 m high, and two 6+4.2 m at 45 degree cantilever. The location and extents of these noise barriers are mapped to Figures 11.24a - 11.24c.

11.2.6 Road D3: Provides a link between Road D4/D1 and Road D5. A depressed road will be constructed near the roundabout of Road D4/D1 to avoid reduction on the traffic flow efficiency to and from Road D1. A section of Road D3 will be constructed in abutment for connection from slip road from KSWH to the at-grade section of Road D3. Three 4 m high vertical noise barriers are provisioned along Road D3. The location and extents of these noise barriers are mapped to Figure 11.24c.

11.2.7 Road D4: Provides a link between Road D1/D3 to Road D2 to facilitate an eastward connection to TSW and Castle Peak Road via Road D4. This route will serve to alleviate the pressure on other west to east links. A section of Road D4 of approximately 300 m length will be constructed as depressed road with partial pedestrian decking-over to facilitate access, and thus increasing connectivity between Sites 2-30 and 2-32. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for Road D4.

11.2.8 Road D5: Provides a link between the services areas (e.g. Special Industry (Logistics Facility)) and connects to Road P1 in the west and Tin Ha Road in the east. The whole section of Road D5 will be at-grade with roundabout with Road D3. One 5 m high vertical noise barrier is provisioned for Road D5. The location and extent of this noise barrier is mapped to Figure 11.24f.

11.2.9 Road D6: Connects with Road D8 along its alignment. The route will play a major role in servicing the proposed HSK Station and related development as well as the proposed Big Box Retail and residential development. To avoid conflict to pedestrian activity in the Regional Plaza near HSK Station, half of Road R6 will be constructed in depressed road of approximate 550 m length with partial decking-over in the Regional Plaza section. Two 3 m high and two 5 m high vertical noise barriers are provisioned along Road D6. The location and extents of these noise barriers are mapped to Figures 11.24f.

11.2.10 Road D7: Road D7 provides access from Road P1 to the commercial sites at Sites 4-12, 4-13 and 4-16. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for Road D7.

11.2.11 Road D8: Road D8 provides a connection between the proposed Road P1 and Castle Peak Road. The route will provide an important west to east link whilst also providing a major means of access to the proposed HSK Station, the civic node at Site 4-31, and the commercial and residential developments located east of the proposed HSK Station. The road will be constructed at-grade, with a depressed EFTS crossing under Road D8. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for Road D8.

Construction of Slip Roads between: Road D8 Junction and Existing Castle Peak Road; Junction of D8/P1 and Junction of D7/P1; and KSWH Connection to Road D3 (DP5)

11.2.12 The proposed slip roads have a length of more than 100 m in length between abutments. Two pairs of slip roads will be constructed near the two roundabouts of Road D8 and Road D7. They provide connection between at-grade Road P1 and existing elevated KSWH in order to improve the traffic connectivity to the Project area. Another pair of slip roads will be constructed from existing KSWH to at-grade Road D3 to provide direct traffic connection to the port-back up areas and the logistic facilities at the western part of the Project. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for the aforementioned slip roads.

Construction of Partly Depressed and Partly Decked-over Roads Located at Road D2, Road D4 and Road D6 (DP6)

11.2.13 Some sections of Road D2, D4 and D6 are enclosed by decking above and by structure on the side for more than 100 m. A section of the Road D2 is decked-over for approximately 450 m with intermittent openings to improve pedestrian access/connectivity between the residential sites near the TSW Main Channel to “LO”, via Site 2-31 and crossing Road D4. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for the aforementioned sections of Roads D2, D4 and D6.

11.2.14 Similarly, to enhance connectivity with the district open space (Site 2-32), it is proposed to deck over approximately 250 m of Road D4 in order to provide pedestrian crossing and flow from north to south across Road D4. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for the decked-over Road D4.

11.2.15 Approximately 300 m with intermittent openings of Road D6 would be decked-over near the proposed regional plaza near the proposed HSK Station. The decked-over structure is intended to maximise the area of Regional Plaza and allow pedestrian crossing to the EFTS station and the western part of development. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for the decked-over Road D6.

Construction of Road P1 and Slip-Road from KSWH to Road D3 partly located within the “Conservation Area” of Yuen Tau Shan (DP12)

11.2.16 A north bound slip road from KSWH is proposed to provide direct access via Road D4 to west part of the Project area which will be located next to KSWH. The slip road and part of Road P1 will be partially located in the “CA” designation of Yuen Tau Shan. The alignment of Road P1 and the slip road will be constructed along the reinforced concrete flood storage ponds to avoid loss of natural/semi-natural habitats. There are no vertical noise barriers provisioned for the slip road for DP12.

Table 11.1A Schedule 2 DPs Associated with HSK NDA (DP1, DP2, DP5, DP6 and DP12)

Designated Project Reference No.	Schedule 2 Designated Project		Work Component/ Reference in RODP
DP1 ¹	Part I, A.1	A road which is an expressway, trunk road, primary distributor road or district distributor road including new roads, and major extensions or improvements to existing road	Construction of new primary distributor road (Road P1)
DP2 ¹	Part I, A.1	A road which is an expressway, trunk road, primary distributor road or district distributor road including new roads, and major extensions or improvements to existing road	Construction of eight new distributor roads (Roads D1 to D8)
DP5 ¹	Part I, A.8	A road or railway bridge more than 100 m in length between abutments	Construction of slip roads between: Road D8 Junction and existing Castle Peak Road; Junction of D8/P1 and Junction of D7/P1; and KSWH connection to Road D3
DP6 ¹	Part I, A.9	A road fully enclosed by decking above and by structure on the sides for more than 100 m	Construction of partly depressed and partly decked-over roads located at Road D2, Road D4, and Road D6
DP12 ¹	Part I, Q.1	All projects including new access roads, railways, sewers, sewage treatment facilities, earthworks, dredging works and other building works partly or wholly in an existing or gazetted proposed country park or special area, a conservation area, an existing or gazetted proposed marine park or marine reserve, a site of cultural heritage, and a site of special scientific interest.	Construction of Road P1 and a slip-road from KSWH to Road D3 partly located within the“CA” of Yuen Tau Shan

Note:

1 Subject to an Environmental Permit application under this EIA Study.

11.3A Concurrent Projects

11.3.1 The EIA Study Brief No. ESB–291/2015 identified several major projects, in the vicinity of the assessment area, as having the potential to run concurrently with the proposed Project and hence have the potential to result in cumulative impacts on the environment. Many of the projects will be completed in advance of the construction programme for the Project, and due to their nature potential cumulative impacts with the Project are not anticipated. Cumulative impacts from the concurrent projects have been assessed in relation to their landscape and visual impact and summarised in Section 11.9A.

11.3.2 During the subsequent detailed design stage of the Project, it is proposed to conduct an environmental review to collate any further available information to update the cumulative impact assessment, including but not limited to the implementation programme of concurrent projects such as TMWB.

11.4A Baseline Landscape Conditions

11.4.1 The topography of the assessment area remains largely the same as under the Schedule 3 Study however confined to a 500 m assessment area from the DP boundaries. The proposed Projects lie on flat, low-lying valley floor running north to Deep Bay and south to Tuen Mun with a branch to the west towards Yuen Long. The valley is enclosed by the Castle Peak hill range to the west, the Tai Lam range to the south and the lower range of Kai Shan and Wang Chau to the east all of which provide a scenic vegetated backdrop. The two main events that have altered the topography of the area since the NWNT Study were the construction of the KSWH, which follows the lower contours of the Castle Peak range to the west and the ongoing rock extraction at Lam Tei Quarry. The contract for the extraction and rehabilitation of Lam Tei Quarry is to continue to mid-2015. The Existence of the KSWH has a significant effect on the topographic setting as it stands at a height of +32 mPD to +34.8 mPD. The flat landscape plain of HSK is disturbed by the existence of this recent addition.

11.4.2 The valley floor identified for the proposed Project is drained by natural streams and channelised nullahs. Whilst most of the watercourses west of the KSWH are natural streams flowing off the Castle Peak range, watercourses to the east have been channelised. The southern portion of the proposed Project marks the approximate watershed where drainage either flows north to Deep Bay or south through the Tuen Mun River Channel.

11.4.3 There are significant areas of trees and woodland within the proposed Project area. These include roadside trees, woodland trees, and vegetation on agricultural land.

Outline Zoning Plans (OZPs)

11.4.4 The Project area is primarily covered by four OZPs: the approved Ha Tsuen OZP No. S/YL-HT/10, approved Lam Tei and Yick Yuen OZP No. S/TM-LTYY/8 and approved Ping Shan OZP No. S/YL-PS/16. A piece of land near Lau Fan Shan in the north and a strip along the Tin Shui Wai (TSW) Main Channel at the northeastern boundary fall within the approved Lau Fau Shan and Tsim Bei Tsui OZP No. S/YL-LFS/7 and approved TSW OZP No. S/TSW/12, respectively. Figure 11.0 shows the respective OZPs within the Project.

11.4.5 The DPs in Package A cover approximately an area of 49.5 ha and is designated under different zonings including “Residential (Group A)” (“R(A)”), “Residential (Group B)” (“R(B)”), “Residential (Group C)” (“R(C)”), “Residential (Group D)” (“R(D)”), “Comprehensive Development Area” (“CDA”), “Commercial/Residential” (“C/R”), “Village Type Development” (“V”), “Open Space” (“O”), “Recreation” (“REC”), “Open Storage” (“OS”), “Industrial” (“I”), “Industrial (Group D)” (“I(D)”), “Green Belt” (“GB”), “Conservation” (“CA”), “Government/Institution or Community” (“G/IC”), “Other Specified Uses” (“OU”) and “Undetermined” (“U”) uses on the existing OZPs. In addition to the land uses outlined below, land is occupied by major highways and the existing nullah.

Landscape Features

11.4.6 The principle LR’s and LCA’s are the same as those identified under the Schedule 3 LVIA but are limited to the 500 m assessment area extending from the boundaries of the Package A DPs and comprise the existing natural topography, watercourses and vegetation. The LCA’s of the proposed Project and the surrounding areas has been defined by the Landscape Character Map of Hong Kong (produced under the Planning Department Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong 2005). These LR’s and LCA’s are illustrated in Figures 11.20 and 11.20a-11.20j and 11.21 and described below.

Landscape Resources

11.4.7 The baseline physical LRs that will be affected during the construction phase and operation phase, together with their sensitivity to change, are described below. The locations of the LRs are mapped in Figures 11.20 and 11.20a-11.20j. Photo-views illustrating the LRs of the assessment area are shown in Figure 11.2. For ease of reference and co-ordination between text, tables and figures, each landscape resource is given an identity number. For this study, there are no old and valuable trees (OVTs) or Wall Trees within the Project area.

11.4.8 In this report, buildings, roads and pavement are not considered LRs and have therefore not been included in the mapping of resources. Given the identification of LRs has been carried out at a 1:5000 scale, it is inevitable that during the process of identification some buildings, roads, hard paving, or other features may be included – or conversely some trees or other resource may be left out. This report attempts to formalise boundaries between distinct areas of LRs for the purpose of impact assessment, and should not be construed as reflecting every single variable on the ground.

11.4.9 LR2 – Hillside Woodland: Refers to woodland areas largely scattered over the hills bordering the Project area that rise steeply to form a dramatic green backdrop and distinctive profile, as well as numerous, scattered hills isolated throughout the Project as a result of human settlement around them. This LR is predominantly composed of native tree species growing naturally with some understorey vegetation, or plantation style forests. The trees vary in height and maturity and provide a continuous greening on the slopes.

11.4.10 LR3 – Hillside Shrub and Grassland: Refers, generally, to open woodland patches that are a result of breaks in the canopy of wooded hillsides, or larger hillside areas largely scattered over the hills bordering the Project to the north and west that consist of herbaceous and grassland species. This LR is predominantly composed of native shrub and grassland species growing naturally. The vegetation varies in height and provides a continuous greening on the slopes.

11.4.11 LR4 – Low-lying Woodland/Plantation: Refers to low-lying areas that are largely scattered throughout the Project area that are spatially defined by the patterns of surrounding human developments such as industrial/open-air storage, roads, or rural residential developments. This results in segregated, circumscribed areas of land that may have various stages and types of vegetation of variable size and quality. The vegetation is characterised by a mix of natural, self-seeded and human induced succession. Species may include mature or semi-mature trees forming an interlocking canopy and dense understory, or more open areas dominated by shrubs, grasses and herbs, and may be of either very high quality or very low-quality, degraded spaces. Some of these LR’s may be relatively untouched and in a natural state, whereas others may be more subject to repetitive human interaction, resulting in sensitivity levels that are highly variable depending on the individual context.

11.4.12 LR5 – Low-lying Grassland: Grassland is one of the three major types of vegetation within the Project area. This LR predominantly is found in low-lying areas and is defined by land covered with grass and low scrub generally under 1 foot (0.3 m) in height (publication Land Utilization in Hong Kong (1968)). Species may consist of Cynodon dactylon, Cyrtococcum patens, Digitaria sanquinalis, Echinochloa crus-galli, Eleusine indica, Imperata cylindrical Ischaemum aristatum. Miscanthus sinensis, Neyraudia arundinaceae, Panicum maximum, Paspalum conjugatum, Paspalum scrobiculatum, Pennisetum alopecuroides, Rhynchelytrum repens, and Thysanolaena maxima.

11.4.13 LR6 – Vegetation on Agricultural Land: Refers to areas of varying sizes consisting of farmland crops and orchards. Often the areas are small plots developed for agriculture by local residents, whereas others are larger areas of broad agricultural cultivation that may include a small number of structures such as small irrigation ponds, green houses, equipment sheds and small/ narrow hard paved areas. It not only contains agricultural vegetation but also some scattered non-agricultural vegetation including some shrubs and trees. It is often an intermediary between areas of development and natural areas.

11.4.14 LR7 – Vegetation within Residential Developments: Refers generally to vegetation found in contemporary, residential developments including landscaping around buildings, small garden spaces, and around ball courts or activity spaces. The vegetation comprises native and exotic species of highly variable quality, and may include amenity shrubs and groundcovers as well as canopy and shade trees.

11.4.15 LR8 – Vegetation within Rural Village: Refers to traditional villages, modern villages and small scale, low rise residential areas of lower density dominated by domestic structures (mainly of 2-3 storeys) interwoven with roads and paths, but limited other infrastructure. There are some Ancestral Halls, shrines and temples. This LR often has small orchard areas associated with it (most commonly planted fruit tree species are Dimocarpus longan, Litchi chinensis, Clausena lansium, Mangifera indica and Citrus maxima) and private gardens, as well as amenity planting among the built structures. This LR usually occurs in fragmented patches with agricultural or natural LRs adjacent to it.

11.4.16 LR9 – Vegetation within Industrial Land / Open Storage: Refers to areas that are heavily adapted for human industrial use such as open areas for storage, parking, or other associated activities such as factory facilities, waste processing plants and other industrial buildings. These areas have small roads within them and some concrete drainage channels. There is very little existing vegetation within this LR with the exception of self-seeded trees and shrubs scattered about the areas. Generally, vegetation is found along the periphery of the boundary lot lines where trees and understory form rows of vegetation circumscribing the industrial uses within the site.

11.4.17 LR10 – Watercourse: Refers to natural streams and modified watercourses channelised with concrete or grasscrete, or with gabion-fortified or concrete banks. This LR includes both large channelised river watercourses as well as some much smaller concrete lined watercourses associated with agricultural land. This LR also includes some walkways along the larger watercourse and the vegetation associated with the watercourse, both within the channel and along the banks as well as the ridge of the banks. The vegetation mainly consists of grasses and shrubs, but also includes trees in some areas as detailed further in the individual LR descriptions.

11.4.18 LR11 – Vegetation within Urban Parks: Refers to parks and other areas that provide recreational use either in the form of playground areas, sports pitches, passive recreation parks or sitting out spaces. Vegetation associated with this LR is generally landscaped trees and shrubs in planters or larger planting areas, consisting of mature and semi-mature vegetation.

11.4.19 LR12 – Vegetation on Modified Slopes: The vegetation on the slopes consists predominantly of woodland tree and shrub species and patches of scrubby grass. The vegetation has mostly been planted for amenity purposes although some has naturally colonised.

11.4.20 LR13 – Vegetation along TSW Promenade: TSW Promenade runs along the TSW River Channel for approximately 2 km. Various paving and edge treatments are prevalent along the promenade, and numerous spaces and activity nodes are sequentially located along its length. Vegetation along TSW Promenade consists of amenity tree and shrub planting and is generally of mature or semi-mature status.

11.4.21 LR14 – Roadside Vegetation: Refers to all the associated major intersections and key adjacent roads including Castle Peak Road. There is tree planting along the sides of the roads consisting of a variety of indigenous and exotic species. In addition, there is some planting along the central divider (median) in some sections, including of amenity shrubs.

11.4.22 LR15 – Waterbodies: Refers to freshwater ponds, stormwater ponds, fishponds and recreational ponds. The ponds are often associated with agricultural land and used for irrigation, and punctuate the traditional field pattern. Some ponds are also found near residential or developed areas and have aesthetic landscape value while also serving as stormwater catchment ponds. Others yet are fishponds. This LR also includes vegetation associated with the ponds, both on and around the banks as well as in the immediate vicinity. The vegetation mainly consists of grasses and shrubs, or scarce trees.

11.4.23 LR17 – Marsh: This LR comprises two small marsh areas identified within the assessment area. The patches of Marsh were fragmented and isolated. The Marshes appeared to be affected by nearby anthropogenic activities and was becoming degraded, as indicated by the establishment of exotic weedy species (e.g. Bidens alba and Chinese Dodder, Cuscuta chinensis). Dominant wetland plant species included native Interrupted Tri-vein Fern (Cyclosorus interruptus), Polygonum sp., Diffuse Day-flower (Commelina diffusa), Primrose Willow (Ludwigia octovalvis), Spiny Knotweed (Polygonum perfoliatum) and Taro (Colocasia esculenta). No floral species of conservation importance were recorded in this habitat.

11.4.24 LR18 – Important Tree: According to the LAO PN No. 7/2007, an “Important Tree” refers to trees in the Register of Old and Valuable Trees, or any other trees that meet one or more of the following criteria:

· trees of 100 years old or above;

· trees of cultural, historical or memorable significance e.g. Fung Shui tree, tree as landmark of monastery or heritage monument, and trees in memory of an important person or event;

· trees of precious or rare species;

· trees of outstanding form (taking account of overall tree size, shape and any special features) e.g. trees with curtain like aerial roots, trees growing in unusual habitat; or

· trees with trunk diameter equal or exceeding 1.0m (measured at 1.3m above ground level), or with height/canopy spread equal or exceeding 25 m.

11.4.25 There are approximately 66 trees that meet one or more of the criteria above and or are and therefore are classified as “Important Trees”. Species include Ficus microcarpa, Ficus elastic, Bombax ceiba, and Artocarpus nitidus subsp. lingnanensis, among others. Due to the “Important Trees” quality and natural status, its regional importance, and low tolerance to change, the sensitivity given is High.

Broad Brush Tree Survey

11.4.26 A broad-brush tree survey has been carried out within the assessment area, which estimates that there are approximately 28,583 trees consisting of approx. 200 species across the entire Project that may be affected by the proposed development. Major tree species included were Ficus microcarpa, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Leucaena leucocephala, Dimocarpus longan, Ficus benjamina, and Celtis sinensis. While most of the trees surveyed belong to common tree species of variable qualities, some rare tree species and other trees of relatively outstanding quality were found occasionally. These are summarized with individual LR descriptions. Many trees are found in the foothills of the natural upland, as well as the rural fringe in between different villages and they are generally mature. This preliminary survey suggests that more than 30% of the affected trees can be retained or transplanted and that the remaining would be felled.

11.4.27 A detailed Tree Felling Application process will be carried out at a later detailed design stage, to finalise tree treatment and allocate compensatory planting areas including available open space, parks and streetscape. There are no Old and Valuable Trees (OVTs) found in the assessment area, however there are a total of 41 trees potentially registerable as OVTs as per LAO PN No. 7/2007. Their locations are illustrated in Figures 11.20a-11.20j as well as Figure 11.45 and Figure 11.46.

11.4.28 Following significant trees could be considered “Important Trees” as defined in ETWBTC(W) No. 3/2006 and LAO PN No. 7/2007. These include:

Table 11.2A Broad Brush Tree Survey (DP1,2,5,6, and 12)
Tree no.	Species	Chinese Name	Est. Tree Size (m)			Form	Health	Amenity Value	Survival Rate after Transplanting	Remarks
Tree no.	Species	Chinese Name	Overall Height	Trunk Diameter	Crown Spread	Form	Health	Amenity Value	Survival Rate after Transplanting	Remarks
155E-T1	Artocarpus nitidus subsp. lingnanensis	桂木	7	0.30	8	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of precious or rare species.
155E-T2	Artocarpus nitidus subsp. lingnanensis	桂木	6	0.15	5	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of precious or rare species.
278-T1	Bombax ceiba	木棉	35	1.50	20	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
278-T2	Bombax ceiba	木棉	20	1.00	20	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
278D-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	16	1.00	20	Good	Fair	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
403-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	12	1.00	12	Good	Good	High	Med	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
407B-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	12	1.00	12	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
407B-T2	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	12	1.00	12	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
743-T1	Bombax ceiba	木棉	16	1.10	14	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
785A-T1	Eucalyptus citriodora	檸檬桉	18	0.90	12	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
785A-T2	Eucalyptus citriodora	檸檬桉	18	0.80	12	Fair	Fair	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
785A-T3	Eucalyptus citriodora	檸檬桉	25	1.00	15	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
785A-T4	Eucalyptus citriodora	檸檬桉	18	1.00	15	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
785A-T5	Eucalyptus citriodora	檸檬桉	22	0.80	12	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
787A-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	8	1.56	12	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
949-T1	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	11	1.50	12	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
978-T1	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	20	3.00	20	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
995-T1	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	13	1.50	15	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
1071A-T1	Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. Cumingiana	白千層	12	1.00	7	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
1077-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	12	1.00	18	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size.
1213A-T1	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	15	1.50	20	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
A0017-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	12	1.50	12	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
1202-T1	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	12	1.00	12	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
1202-T2	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	12	1.00	12	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
1203-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	14	1.00	15	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
1213-T1	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	15	1.50	17	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
1213-T2	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	16	3.00	25	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
201-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	13	2.00	20	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
202-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	14	1.20	20	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
203-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	13	1.20	16	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
203-T2	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	15	1.50	16	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
203-T3	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	15	1.50	16	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
203-T4	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	18	1.00	12	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
207-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	15	1.50	20	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
207-T2	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	15	1.50	20	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
207-T3	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	12	1.20	15	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
34-T1	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	14	1.50	20	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
633-T1	Bombax ceiba	木棉	20	1.00	14	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
633-T2	Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	12	1.20	16	Good	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size, this particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
756-T1	Ficus benjamina	垂葉榕	16	1.00	18	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size
962-T1	Ficus elastica	印度橡樹	13	1.50	16	Fair	Good	High	Low	Potentially registrable as OVT: tree of large size

11.4.29 Following significant trees surveyed belong to species recorded in the latest edition of the publication "Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong" issued by Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. These include:

Table 11.2A Broad Brush Tree Survey (DP1,2,5,6, and 12) (cont.)
Tree no.	Species	Chinese Name	Est. Tree Size (m)			Form	Health	Amenity Value	Survival Rate after Transplanting	Remarks
Tree no.	Species	Chinese Name	Overall Height	Trunk Diameter	Crown Spread	Form	Health	Amenity Value	Survival Rate after Transplanting	Remarks
59D-T2	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	10	0.22	7	Fair	Good	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
155E-T4	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	5	0.15	3	Fair	Good	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
237A-T1	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	5	0.15	3	Good	Good	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
237A-T2	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	3	0.10	2	Good	Good	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
456-T1	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	8	0.15	5	Fair	Good	Med	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
456-T2	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	10	0.20	6	Fair	Good	Med	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
456-T3	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	10	0.20	6	Fair	Good	Med	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
1212-T1	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	8	0.25	3	Fair	Good	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
1213-T3	Ailanthus fordii	常綠臭椿	10	0.16	3	Fair	Good	High	Low	The tree species is scheduled under the Forests And Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96).
1213-T4	Ailanthus fordii	常綠臭椿	10	0.22	3	Fair	Good	High	Low	The tree species is scheduled under the Forests And Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96).
34A-T1	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	8	0.25	3	Fair	Fair	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
34A-T2	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	10	0.25	3	Fair	Fair	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
34A-T3	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	10	0.25	3	Fair	Poor	Med	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).
34A-T4	Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	8	0.25	4	Fair	Good	High	Low	The tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586).

11.4.30 Following significant trees, although neither considered as “Important Tree” nor rare, are considered to have relatively outstanding size or quality and therefore worth mentioning. These include:

Table 11.2A Broad Brush Tree Survey (cont.)

Tree no.	Species	Chinese Name	Est. Tree size (m)			Form	Health	Amenity Value	Survival Rate after Transplanting	Remarks
Tree no.	Species	Chinese Name	Overall Height	Trunk Diameter	Crown Spread	Form	Health	Amenity Value	Survival Rate after Transplanting	Remarks
181-T1	Celtis sinensis	朴樹	12	0.70	10	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
224-T1	Bombax ceiba	木棉	15	0.65	10	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
237C-T1	Cinnamomum camphora	樟	7	0.50	8	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form.
278D-T2	Bombax ceiba	木棉	20	0.60	12	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
640A-T1	Bombax ceiba	木棉	13	0.50	10	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
640A-T2	Bombax ceiba	木棉	15	0.60	12	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
688D-T1	Michelia x alba	白蘭	20	0.55	10	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
688D-T2	Michelia x alba	白蘭	20	0.30	7	Fair	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very large size among its own tree species.
688G-T1	Ficus religiosa	菩提樹	12	0.80	10	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
914-T1	Homalium hainanensis	紅花天料木	13	0.45	8	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.
914-T2	Homalium hainanensis	紅花天料木	12	0.35	6	Good	Good	High	Low	This particular tree has very good form and size among its own tree species.

11.4.31 All 66 Important Trees are to be retained, transplanted or felled subject to detailed design at a later stage. As part of the detailed Urban Design Framework, many of these Important Trees are proposed to be circumscribed in Open Space areas in order to be retained and protected. In other instances where this is not practical, implementation of the proposed LVIA Mitigation Measures calls for the trees to be transplanted if impacts cannot be avoided.

Baseline Landscape and Visual Conditions

11.4.32 For the purpose of this assessment, baseline visual conditions are considered to be indissociable from baseline landscape conditions, which largely constitute the elements within view. As such, the visual outlook is understood to be shaped by the combined composition of all the visual elements which come into sight of the viewers. This section provides a brief outline of baseline visual conditions related to the proposed road network (the specific DPs discussed within this schedule [DP1, DP2, DP5, DP6 and DP12]), which spans the entire HSK NDA development, from Castle Peak Road at the southern boundary, to Lau Fau Shan Road and the hillslopes along Deep Bay Road to the north. Further details regarding baseline conditions for the entire HSK NDA development can be found under Section 2.3 of Chapter 2.

Northern Project Area

11.4.33 Within the northern portion of the Project area, undeveloped landscape areas are physically characterised by a series of knolls, uplands and hills which benefit from some tree cover. Low lying undeveloped landscapes are more sparsely vegetated and are largely occupied by residential or “PBU + OS” land uses. Among the residential land uses are clusters of New Territories Exempted Houses, informal rudimentary housing, and a cluster of modern low rise developments. The northern and central parts of the Project area are also occupied by a number of traditional villages. The visual scale and intensity is consistent with residential or village type development throughout the NWNT. In large part, “PBU + OS” uses are visually characterised by the presence of container storage and the storage of plant and vehicles, a condition that is readily perceptible in relation to a number of sites. Notably some storage sites have containers stored six or more high.

Southern Project Area

11.4.34 The southern part of the Project area is visually characterised by existing road and rail infrastructure, as well as development and land uses of various scales and character. Living structures, non-domestic structures and open storage are particularly prevalent within the southwestern parts of the Project area. The village scale and intensity is consistent with village type development throughout the NWNT. The living structures in these areas are widely dispersed and some of them are impoverished temporary structures, intermingled with many non-living temporary structures. Some living structures are also converted from abandoned farm structures. The southeastern part of the Project area contrasts significantly with the preceding areas as a series of recent developments have been introduced to the area.

Western Project Area

11.4.35 Land at the western Project area is formed of rolling uplands and lowlands linked to Castle Peak and its associated hillsides. Visual conditions are largely characterised by a mosaic of brownfields sites (e.g. recycling, container storage), vegetated knolls (dotted with graves) and a small amount of agricultural land. A large area of hillslopes designated as “Conservation Area” (“CA”) also comprises the visual backdrop.

Eastern Project Area

11.4.36 In the eastern Project area, Kiu Tau Wai industrial area is located to the south of the West Rail TSW Station (TSW Station) and TSW Light Rail Transit (LRT) Station. This area is visually characterised by a variety of low-rise industrial buildings, rural industries and open storage, with clusters of more traditional land uses such as village type housing and agriculture.

Sensitivity of LRs and LCAs

11.4.37 LRs affected by the proposed development within 500 m of the Project area and associated infrastructure have been identified and mapped using a combination of aerial photography followed by on site verification. Each component affecting the sensitivity of the LR has been reviewed in relation to:

· Quality of the LRs;

· Maturity of the LRs;

· Rarity of special landscape elements;

· Importance of the Landscape Resource in local and regional context; and

· Ability of the landscape to accommodate change

11.4.38 LRs of higher sensitivity are generally low-lying woodlands and hillside woodlands, marshes, and some water ponds, although other sources such as agricultural land and grassland areas may also have high sensitivity due to certain characteristics. LRs of medium sensitivity are generally low-lying grasslands, vegetation within residential developments, urban parks and rural villages, roadside vegetation, and some channelised water courses. LRs of low sensitivity are generally vegetation on modified slopes, within industrial land, and some vegetation on agricultural land. For the Package A DP Boundaries, the key LRs sensitivity are summarised below.

11.4.39 Given the nature of trees as a precious landscape resource, areas of hillside woodlands and low-lying woodlands within the Package A DP Boundaries are rated as having high sensitivity with the exception of some areas of woodland disturbed by human activity which are of lower quality. In addition, the presence of hillside gravesites in many woodland areas results in these sites having high sensitivity, mainly due to their low ability to accommodate change.

11.4.40 LRs associated with natural water bodies are often considered higher value resources. However, the nullahs are generally degraded by pollution, have sections fortified by concrete banks, and are thus considered less sensitive and given ‘medium’ sensitivity. In addition, all the marsh areas in the Package A DP Boundaries provide valuable habitat and as such are rated as highly sensitive largely due to their low ability to accommodate change.

11.4.41 While most agricultural LRs have low sensitivity due to their non-congruous nature and proximity to expanding development, the larger agricultural land in San Sang San Tsuen is intensively used and has a number of Important Trees, hence this agricultural land is recognised as having high sensitivity.

11.4.42 LRs associated with roadside vegetation are generally non-contiguous, yet consist of semi-mature to mature trees of various species. Considering the maturity of this roadside vegetation, the land is recognised as having medium sensitivity.

11.4.43 LRs associated with more developed areas, such as vegetation within urban parks, residential developments and villages, generally consist of non-congruous patches of vegetation. However, these areas provide important sources of landscape amenity for local residents and as such are recognised as having medium sensitivity.

11.4.44 It is also noted that there is a considerable amount of open storage / industrial land in the Package A DP Boundaries, and all of these areas are considered of low quality and sensitivity.

Table 11.3 Baseline Landscape Resources (DP1, DP2, DP5, DP6 and DP12)

Id. No.	Landscape Resource (LR)	Baseline Area	Description
Id. No.	Landscape Resource (LR)	Baseline Area	Quality & Maturity (High, Medium, Low)	Rarity (High, Medium, Low)	Importance (Local, Regional, National, Global)	Ability to Accommodate Change (Low, Medium, High)	Sensitivity (Low, Medium, High)
LR 2 – Hillside Woodland		146.8 ha
2.2	Ngau Hom	2.8 ha	High	Medium	Regional	Low	High
			This LR comprises a large wooded hillside rising to 46.9 m located to the north of Ngau Hom and Sha Kong Wai villages and to the east of San Hing Tsuen village. Numerous graves are found scattered about the hillside. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming a mostly interconnected tree canopy. Two Important Trees, 34A-T1 and 34A-T4, are located in this LR. A total of approx. 130 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Celtis sinensis, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, and Dimocarpus longan.
			Zoning: The extent of the LR lies within areas zoned as “Green Belt” (GB) and “Village Type Development” (V) under the Lau Fau Shan & Tsim Bei Tsui OZP S/YL-LFS/7
2.3	Hang Hau Tsuen	0.3 ha	High	Medium	Regional	Low	High
			This LR comprises two contiguous wooded hillsides rising to 38.6 m and 36.5 m located to the south of Hang Hau Tsuen with a section of Deep Bay Road cutting across the northern extents. Numerous graves are found scattered about the hillsides. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. One Important Tree, 59D-T2, is located on the edge of the LR. Identified as Aquilaria sinensis, the tree species is protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). A total of approx. 12 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, and Celtis sinensis.
			Zoning: The majority of the LR lies within area zoned as “Residential (Group D)” (R(D)) under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10. The area of this LR located to the north of Deep Bay Road is zoned CPA under the same OZP.
2.4	Ngau Hom Shek	26.3 ha	High	Medium	Regional	Low	High
			This LR comprises the contiguous wooded hillsides located to the east of the Shenzhen Bay Bridge and KSWH that effectively form the northern green backdrop of the Project. Numerous graves are found scattered about the hillsides. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. Three Important Trees, 181-T1, 237A-T1, and 237A-T2, are located in this LR. The identified tree species include Celtis sinensis and Aquilaria sinensis and have very good form and size or are protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). A total of approx. 1,468 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Lophostemon confertus, and Celtis sinensis.
			Zoning: The majority of the LR lies within area zoned GB under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10, with smaller patches located at the base of the northerly and westerly slopes zoned “Agriculture” (AGR).
2.6	Tung Tau Tsuen	4.4 ha	High	Medium	Regional	Low	High
			This LR comprises two contiguous wooded hillsides rising to 28.3 m and 24.2 m located north of Hong Mei Tsuen and Tung Tau Tsuen. The hillsides lie immediately adjacent to Yeung Hau Temple, a Declared Monument. Numerous graves are found scattered about the hillsides. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. Six Important Trees, 155E-T1, 155E-T2, 155E-T4, 203-T1, 203-T2, and 203-T3, are located within this LR. The identified tree species include Artocarpus nitidus subsp. lingnanensis and Aquilaria sinensis and are protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) or are potentially registrable as OVT due to large size and good form and size among its own tree species. A total of approx. 446 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Dimocarpus longan, Clausena lansium, Litchi chinensis, and Artocarpus heterophyllus.
			Zoning: The north facing slopes of the hillsides are zoned “Comprehensive Development Area” (CDA) and the south-facing hillsides are zoned V, both under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
2.7	Ha Tsuen Road	0.6 ha	High	Medium	Local	Medium	High
			This LR comprises a lone, isolated wooded hillside rising to 13.2 m located north of Ha Tsuen Road and surrounded by open storage land-uses on all sides. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. A total of 85 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Litchi chinensis.
			Zoning: The hillside is zoned GB under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
2.8	Ha Tsuen	1.3 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Low	Medium
			This LR comprises a lone, isolated wooded hillside rising to 35.9 m located north of the Sewage Treatment Plant and disconnected from the northern wooded hillside ridgeline of Ngau Hom Shek by open storage land-uses on all sides. The top of the hillside has been de-vegetated and levelled to make room for industrial land uses. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. A total of approx.108 trees have been identified within this LR.
			Zoning: The hillside is zoned GB under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
2.9	Yuen Tau Shan	101.7 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises the contiguous wooded hillsides located to the west of the Shenzhen Bay Bridge and KSWH that effectively form the western ridgeline of the Project area. Numerous graves are found scattered about the hillsides. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. A total of approx.4,804 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Eucalyptus sp., Acacia confusa, Leucaena leucocephala, and Dimocarpus longan.
			Zoning: The majority of the LR lies within area zoned “CA” under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10, Ping Shan OZP S/YL-PS/16, & Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8. Additional areas lie within areas zoned GB under the aforementioned OZPs, and a small patch located at the foothills facing Deep Bay is zoned AGR under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
2.11	Kau Lee Uk Tsuen	5.5 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises of a hillside area located to the west Kau Lee Uk Tsuen and rises 38.1 m in elevation. Numerous graves are found scattered about the hillsides. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. Three Important Trees, 456-T1, 456-T2, and 456-T3 are located within this LR. The identified tree species are Aquilaria sinensis and are protected under local legislation, the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). A total of approx. 264 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Litchi chinensis, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Clausena lansium, Dimocarpus longan, and Celtis sinensis.
			Zoning: The hillside lie within areas zoned GB under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
2.12	San Sang Tsuen	2.9 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises three discontinuous hillside areas located to the west and northwest San Sang Tsuen, rising to elevations of 18 m, 24.5 m, 28.3 m. Numerous graves are found scattered about the hillsides. Vegetation is comprised of mature and semi-mature tree canopies of various species forming an interconnected tree canopy. One Important Tree, 633-T2, is located within the LR; it is identified as Ficus macrocarpa. A total of approx. 156 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Aleurites moluccana.
			Zoning: The easternmost hillsides lies within area zoned G/IC, and the two westerly hillsides lie within areas zoned R(D) under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
LR 3 – Hillside Shrub & Grassland		51.0 ha
3.1	Ngau Hom	0.5 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises a large open hillside conjoined to LR2.2 - Ngau Hom Woodland. Here, nearly all trees have been removed resulting in succession of herbaceous species and grassland. Numerous graves are found scattered about the area. A total of approx. 8 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Celtis sinensis, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, and Dimocarpus longan.
			Zoning: The extent of the LR lies within areas zoned GB under the Lau Fau Shan & Tsim Bei Tsui OZP S/YL-LFS/7.
3.3	Ngau Hom Shek	16.7 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises various hillside meadows located within the extents of LR2.3 - Ngau Hom Shek Woodland. Here, there are few trees and the dominant vegetation consists of successional herbaceous plants and grassland species. Numerous graves are found scattered about the areas. One Important Tree, 237C-T1 is located within this LR. The identified tree species is Cinnamomum camphora and is identified as having very good form for trees of this species. A total of approx. 389 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Lophostemon confertus, Acacia auriculiformis, and Tetradium glabrifolium.
			Zoning: The LR lies within area zoned GB under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
3.4	Yuen Tau Shan	32.7 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises various hillsides located scattered amongst the extents of LR2.9 – Yuen Tau Shan Woodland. These hillsides comprise part of the western ridgeline of the Project area, and comprise dense woodland stands and more open, hillside shrub land. In this LR, there are few trees and the dominant vegetation consists of successional herbaceous plants and grassland. Numerous graves are found scattered about the various hillsides. A total of approx. 213 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa.
			Zoning: The majority of the LR lies within area zoned CA under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10, Ping Shan OZP S/YL-PS/16, & Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8. Additional areas lie within areas zoned GB under the aforementioned OZPs, and a small patch located at the foothills facing Deep Bay is zoned AGR under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
3.5	Kau Lee Uk Tsuen	1.1 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises hillside meadows located within the extents of LR2.10 - Hung Uk Tsuen Woodland. Here, there are few trees and the dominant vegetation consists of successional herbaceous plants and grassland species. Numerous graves are found scattered about the area. A total of approx. 24 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Celtis sinensis.
			Zoning: The hillsides lie within areas zoned GB under the Ping Shan OZP S/YL-PS/16.
LR 4 – Low-lying Woodland/Plantation		22.2 ha
4.1	Tin Ying Road & Tin Wah Road	3.8 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR primarily consists of second-growth woodland with mature and semi-mature trees forming an interlocking tree canopy. It presently serves as a green buffer between TSW Promenade and the industrial storage land uses west of the river. It is located west of Tin Ying Road and south of Tin Wah Road. A total of approx. 845 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Acacia auriculiformis, Melia azedarach, Leucaena leucocephala, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Hibiscus tiliaceus, and Ficus benjamina.
			Zoning: This LR resides within area zoned CDA under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
4.3	Tin Ying Road & Ping Ha Road	1.6 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
			This LR consists of tree and scrubland vegetation adjacent to an existing nullah, and serves as a green buffer between the nullah and open-air storage areas to the north and south. The LR is bound to east and west by Ping Ha Road and Tin Ying Road, respectively. A total of approx. 358 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Acacia confusa, Eucalyptus sp., Acacia auriculiformis, and Hibiscus tiliaceus.
			Zoning: This LR falls on areas that are zoned Open Space (O) on the north side of the nullah and Undetermined (U) on the south side of the nullah. Both fall under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
4.8	San Sang San Tsuen	15.8 ha	High	Medium	Regional	Low	High
			This LR consists of two extremely large, woodland and scrubland areas located adjacent to a similar sized area of land used for agriculture. This LR is located between the Kong Sam Western Highway and the WRL alignment, and south of San Sang San Tsuen and San Sang Tsuen villages. It primarily consists of two continuous, large areas. The northern area is immediately south of the aforementioned village areas, and consists of stands of mature and semi-mature trees and open scrubland and grassland areas. All the vegetation is of relatively high quality. The southern area is located south of the large agricultural zone LR 6.9 and is bisected by a small drainage channel. Vegetation here is similar to the above. These two areas are generally continuous, open, unspoiled, and generally of high quality. Five Important Trees, 688D-T1, 688-T2, and 688G-T1, 914-T1 and 914-T2 are located within this LR. Identified as Michelia x alba, Ficus religiosa, and Homalium hainanensis, the tree species are recognised for their very good form and large size among their own tree species A total of approx. 626 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Dimocarpus longan, Clausena lansium, Leucaena leucocephala, and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa.
			Zoning: The northern area of this LR largely resides within areas zoned R(D), with a very small area residing within area zoned V, both under the under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10. The majority of the LR, both north and south areas, reside within areas zoned GB under the Ping Shan OZP S/YL-PS/16. A small portion of the southern LR area falls within land zoned U under the Ping Shan OZP S/YL-PS/16.
4.11	Tin Sam	0.6 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
			This LR primarily consists of scrubland as well as a woodland stand adjacent to existing residential developments in Tin Sam. This LR is located to the west of the intersection of Tin Ha Road and Hung Leong Road. The vegetation is generally of good quality consisting of mature and semi-mature trees forming an interlocking tree canopy and open area of scrubland with herbaceous and grassland species. A total of approx. 34 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Dimocarpus longan.
			Zoning: This LR resides within three zoning designations under two OZPs. The northern area falls under land zoned V and the middle area under R(C) under the Ping Shan OZP S/YL-PS/16, and the southern area under land zoned R(B) under the Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8.
4.12	Powerline Pylon	0.3 ha	Low	Low	Local	High	Low
			This LR consists of the area surrounding an electrical transmission wire pylon. Vegetation has grown to include scrubland and herbaceous species around the base of the pylon supports. It is located south of Yick Yuen Tsuen and lies adjacent to a drainage nullah. A total of approx. 22 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Bauhinia purpurea and Leucaena leucocephala.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned R(C) under the Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8.
LR 5 – Low-lying Shrub & Grassland		37.0 ha
5.2	Sha Kong Wai Tsai	7.2 ha	Low	Low	Local	Medium	Low
			This LR primarily consists of scrubland with scattered carparks and open-air storage buildings throughout. It is located west of Tin Ying Road and north of Tin Wah Road, and forms a vegetative buffer between the roadways and the rural housing found in Sha Kong Wai Tsai to the west. A total of approx. 316 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala, Eucalyptus sp., Ficus microcarpa, Ficus virens, Hibiscus tiliaceus, and Ficus benjamina.
			Zoning: The majority of this LR resides within either GB or Residential (Group C) (R(C)) zoning designation under the Lau Fau Shan & Tsim Bei Tsui OZP S/YL-LFS/7. The southeastern corner of this LR falls within G/IC zoning under the TSW OZP S/TSW/12.
5.3	Fung Kong Tsuen	9.5 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
			This LR primarily consists of scattered scrubland areas with open grassland or bare patches of dirt interspersed between. It presently serves as a transition between LR 2.4 - Ngau Hom Shek Woodland to the west and large, contiguous industrial and open-air storage areas serviced by Ping Ha Road to the east. Vegetation is generally of good quality and the grassland forms the base of the hillside in this area. A total of approx. 197 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa.
			Zoning: This LR resides primarily within areas zoned GB, but also within CDA, V, and Recreation (REC) under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
5.5	San Wai	1.6 ha	High	Medium	Local	Medium	High
			This LR consists of four grassland patches located within the vicinity of San Wai, Sik Kong Tsuen, and Tseung Kong Wai villages. Vegetation is generally of good quality and the grassland forms green backdrops set against rural village housing. Three Important Trees, 278-T1, 278-T2 and 278D-T1 are located in this LR. The identified tree species include Bombax ceiba and Ficus microcarpa and are potentially registrable as OVTs due to large tree size and very good form among trees of these species. A total of approx. 68 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Dimocarpus longan, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, and Clausena lansium.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned V under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
5.6	San Lee Uk Tsuen	2.6 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR consists of a large woodland stand and scrubland located south of Sha Chau Lei Road and the nullah, and north of the WRL alignment. The vegetation consists of mature and semi-mature trees forming an interlocking tree canopy with dense understory, or more open areas of scrubland with herbaceous and grassland species. This LR is continuous, open, unspoiled, and generally of high quality. A total of approx. 91 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala, Dimocarpus longan, Ficus microcarpa, and Celtis sinensis.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned R(D) under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
5.7	San Sang Tsuen	0.5 ha	Low	Low	Local	High	Low
			This LR consists of a small grassland interspersed between rural residential developments in San Sang Tsuen. As continual expansion of village housing occurs, it is likely that this area will be subsumed by development in short time.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned V and R(D) under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
5.8	Chung Uk Tsuen	1.6 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
			This LR primarily consists of an open area of scrubland vegetation and several stands of mature woodlands and individual trees. The LR is circumscribed on three sides by rural village housing and is bound to the east by a nullah drainage channel. This LR is located south of Castle Peak Road and south of Chung Uk Tsuen. The character of vegetation is generally of good quality in that the trees are mature and semi-mature species. As continual expansion of village housing occurs, it is likely that this area will be subsumed by development. A total of approx. 115 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala, Celtis sinensis, Artocarpus heterophyllus, and Clausena lansium.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned V under the Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8.
5.9	Yick Yuen Tsuen	12.4 ha	High	Medium	Regional	Medium	High
			This LR consists of an extremely large, woodland and scrubland area. This LR is located west of Yick Yuen Tsuen and east of the Kong Sam Western Highway. It consists of continuous, large areas vegetation including stands of mature and semi-mature trees and open scrubland and grassland areas. All the vegetation is of relatively high quality. This LR is generally continuous, open, and of high quality. A total of approx. 503 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala, Dimocarpus longan, and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned GB and R(D) under the Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8.
5.10	Tuen Mun San Tsuen	1.0 ha	Low	Low	Local	High	Low
			This LR consists of scrubland and grassland vegetation patches circumscribed by development on all sides. It is located east of Castle Peak Road, immediately behind Lin Wah Hall, north of Lam Tei Main Street, and adjacent to The Sherwood residential development as well as numerous village housing settlements. Two smaller grasslands are located to the south of Botania Villa and east of Tuen Mun San Tsuen. As continual expansion of village housing occurs, it is likely that these areas will be subsumed by development in short time. A total of approx. 60 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Archontophoenix alexandrae, Dimocarpus longan, Clausena lansium, and Leucaena leucocephala.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned V, GB, and CDA under the Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8.
5.11	Tsing Chuen Wai	0.4 ha	Low	Low	Local	High	Low
			This LR primarily consists of low-quality scrubland interspersed between rural residential developments and the KSWH. As continual expansion of village housing occurs, it is likely that this area will be subsumed by development in short time. A total of approx. 27 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala.
			Zoning: This LR resides within areas zoned V under the Lam Tei & Yick Yuen OZP S/TM-LTYY/8.
LR 6 – Vegetation on Agricultural Land		37.5 ha
6.1	Sha Kong Wai	1.2 ha	Low	Low	Local	High	Low
			This LR consists of numerous small plots with stands of mature trees and buffer vegetation throughout. It is located just east of Sha Kong Wai village and surrounded by rural residential housing on three sides. It is adjacent to LR 4.1 - Sha Kong Wai Tsai Low-lying Woodland and Scrubland. A total of approx. 86 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala, Ficus benjamina, and Ficus microcarpa.
			Zoning: This LR resides within two different zoning designations; land zoned V and GB under the Lau Fau Shan & Tsim Bei Tsui OZP S/YL-LFS/7.
6.3	Ha Tsuen	3.7 ha	Low	Low	Local	High	Low
			This LR comprises five individual, non-congruous plots of land actively being used in agricultural production. They are located near Tseung Kong Wai, Ski Kong Wai, San Wai, and Ha Tsuen Shi and generally are bordered by rural village housing and vegetation. As this LR is essentially located in leftover spots around village housing, as continual expansion of village housing occurs it is likely that this area will be subsumed by development. A total of approx. 66 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Eucalyptus torelliana, Dimocarpus longan, and Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. cumingiana.
			Zoning: This LR largely resides within land zoned V under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10, with very small areas falling under REC or GB designation.
6.5	Shek Po Tsuen	2.4 ha	Low	Low	Local	High	Low
			This LR comprises five individual, non-congruous plots of land actively used in agricultural production. They are located in the vicinity of Shek Po Tsuen to the north, west and south, as well as two larger sized plots located to the west on either side of the WRL alignment. The plots surrounding Shek Po Tsuen occupy leftover spaces around village housing, and as continual expansion of village housing occurs, it is likely that this area will be subsumed by development. The two plots located to the west are located adjacent to the large Low-lying Woodland/Plantation LR4.12. A total of approx. 82 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Dimocarpus longan, Clausena lansium, and Roystonea regia.
			Zoning: This LR resides wholly within land zoned V and R(D) under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
6.6	San Sang San Tsuen	19.3 ha	High	Medium	Local	Low	High
			This LR comprises three individual, non-congruous plots of land actively used in agricultural production. They are located to the south of San Sang San Tsuen and are bounded by the KSWH to the west and the WRL to the east. The north is bound by LR4.13 – San Sang San Tsuen Low-lying Scrub and Woodland, a high-amenity scrubland. This LR is the largest contiguous area of land being actively used for agriculture within the Project area. It consists of agricultural plots of various sizes growing a variety of crops, numerous stands of trees varying in age, rural housing and buildings of varying quality and functions, areas of woodland and scrubland between plots and buildings. It is regarded to have a high amenity value due to its intensive use and large size. Six Important Trees, 785A-T1, 785A-T2, 785A-T3, 785A-T4, 785A-T5, & 787A-T1 are located within this LR. The identified tree species include Eucalyptus citriodora and Ficus microcarpa and are potentially registrable as OVTs due to tree of large size and good form. A total of approx. 651 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Dimocarpus longan, Mangifera indica, Artocarpus heterophyllus, and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa.
			Zoning: This LR resides mostly within areas zoned GB under the Ping Shan OZP S/YL-PS/16. A small corner of the southeastern LR falls within area zoned U under the Ping Shan OZP, and a very miniscule area of the LR falls within land zoned R(D) under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
6.7	Ling To	3.2 ha	High	Medium	Regional	Low	High
			This LR comprises plots of land actively used in agricultural production in the vicinity of Ling To Tsz. This LR located primarily to the west of the KSWH within a settled valley leading up to the temple, and consequently is bound by hillsides of LR2.9 – Yuen Tau Shan Woodland to the south and LR3.4 – Yuen Tau Shan Natural Hillside Scrub and Grassland to the north. It consists of agricultural plots of various sizes growing a variety of crops, numerous stands of trees varying in age, areas of buffer woodland and scrubland between plots and buildings. Due to the contextual location and the character of the area leading up to the temple, it is regarded to have a high amenity value. A total of approx. 180 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Ficus benjamina, Dimocarpus longan, and Roystonea regia.
			Zoning: This LR resides wholly within land zoned GB under the Ha Tsuen OZP S/YL-HT/10.
6.9	Wo Ping San Tsuen & Nai Wai	0.7 ha	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
			This LR primarily consists of two medium-sized agricultural plots, buffer vegetation, and several stands of trees. The LR is circumscribed on three sides by rural village housing and the easterly area is located north of Shun Tat Street. The character of vegetation is generally of good quality in that the trees are mature and semi-mature species. As continual expansion of village housing occurs, it is likely that this area will be subsumed by development. The westerly LR is located east of Nai Wai village and is completely circumscribed by village housing. Being that this LR is located in leftover spots around village housing, as continual expansion of village housing occurs it is likely that this area will be subsumed by development. A total of approx. 24 trees have been identified within this LR; the dominant species includes Leucaena leucocephala, Celtis sinensis, Clausena lansium, Litchi chinensis, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Sterculia nobilis, Ficus benjamina, and Archontophoenix alexandrae.