TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

9       Landscape and Visual Impacts.. 9-1

9.1       Introduction. 9-1

9.2       Environmental Legislation, Standards and Criteria. 9-1

9.3       Assessment Methodology. 9-2

9.4       Review of Planning and Development Control Framework. 9-6

9.5       Baseline Study. 9-7

9.6       Landscape Impact Assessment 9-16

9.7       Visual Impact Assessment 9-22

9.8       Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures. 9-28

9.9       Residual Impacts. 9-29

9.10     Cumulative Impacts. 9-36

9.11     Conclusion. 9-37

 

 

LIST OF FIGURES

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/241

Landscape Resources

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/242

Landscape Resources Photos

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/243

Landscape Character Areas

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/244

Landscape Character Areas Photos

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/245

Visually Sensitive Receivers

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/246

Visually Sensitive Receivers Photos

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/247

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Plan

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/248

Photomontage for VSR1 – Tung Chung New Town Extension, Tung Chung East Development (Sheet 1 of 2)

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/249

Photomontage for VSR1 – Tung Chung New Town Extension, Tung Chung East Development (Sheet 2 of 2)

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/250

Photomontage for VSR8 - North Lantau Highway (Sheet 1 of 2)

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/251

Photomontage for VSR8 - North Lantau Highway (Sheet 2 of 2)

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/252

Photomontage for VSR13 - Cheung Tung Road (Sheet 1 of 2)

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/253

Photomontage for VSR13 - Cheung Tung Road (Sheet 2 of 2)

NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/254

Photomontage for VSR14 - Vehicular Access Bridge to North Lantau Highway

 

LIST OF appendix

Appendix 9.1         Approximate Location of Affected Trees

 

 

 


9                  Landscape and Visual Impacts

9.1              Introduction

9.1.1          This section presents the findings of the assessment of potential landscape and visual impacts associated with the Project which comprises the Siu Ho Wan Depot (SHD) Replanning Works, construction and operation of Siu Ho Wan Station (SHO), and the associated track modification works at existing Airport Express Line (AEL)/Tung Chung Line (TCL).

9.1.2          Landscape and visual impacts assessment are assessed in accordance with the criteria and guidelines as stated in Annexes 10 and 18 of the EIAO-TM and the EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010 on "Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance".

9.1.3          The assessment area for landscape impact shall include areas within a 500m distance from the site boundary of the Project and any other areas likely to be impacted by the Project.  The assessment area for the visual impact assessment shall be defined by the visual envelope of the Project. 

9.2              Environmental Legislation, Standards and Criteria

9.2.1          The following legislation, standards and guidelines are applicable to landscape and visual impact assessment associated with the construction and operation of the Project: 

·         Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) (Cap.499 S.16) and the Technical Memorandum on EIA Process (EIAO-TM), particularly Annexes 10 and 18; 

·         Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance Guidance Note No. 8/2010; 

·         Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131); 

·         Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586); 

·         Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapters 4, 10 and 11; 

·         AFCD Nature Conservation Practice Note No. 2 - Measurement of Diameter at Breast Height (DBH); 

·         AFCD Nature Conservation Practice Note No. 3 – The Use of Plant Names; 

·         ETWB TC(W) No. 29/2004 - Registration of Old and Valuable Trees, and Guidelines for their Preservation; 

·         DEVB TC(W) No. 2/2012 - Allocation of Space for Quality Greening on Roads; 

·         DEVB TC(W) No. 6/2015 - Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features; 

·         DEVB TC(W) No. 7/2015 - Tree Preservation; 

·         LAO PN 7/2007 - Tree Preservation and Tree Removal Application for Building Development in Private Projects;

·         Guidelines on Tree Transplanting (September 2014) issued by Greening, Landscape and Tree Management (GLTM) Section of DevB;

·         Guidelines on Tree Preservation during Development (April 2015) issued by GLTM Section of DevB; and

·         Study on Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong. 

9.2.2          The Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) gazetted under the Town Planning Ordinance provides the statutory framework for land use development.  Reference has been made to the Approved Tung Chung Extension Area Outline Zoning Plan No.   (7.2.2017) and departmental plans including North-East Lantau Outline Development Plan No. D/I – NEL/1, Siu Ho Wan Layout Plan (LP) No. L/I-SHW/1A and Draft Tai Ho Outline Zoning Plan No. S/I-TH/1. 

9.3              Assessment Methodology

Landscape Impact Assessment Methodology

9.3.1          The landscape impacts have been assessed according to the following procedures. 

·         Identification of the baseline landscape resources and landscape characters found within the study area.  This is achieved by site visits and desktop study of topographical maps, information databases and photographs.

·         Assessment of the degree of sensitivity of the landscape resources and landscape character areas.  This is influenced by a number of factors including whether the resource/character is common or rare, whether it is considered to be of local, regional, national or global importance, whether there are any statutory or regulatory limitations/requirements relating to the resource, the quality of the resource/character, the maturity of the resource and the ability of the resource/character to accommodate change. 

·         The sensitivity of each landscape feature and character area is classified as follows:

High:

Important landscape character or resource of particularly distinctive character or high importance, sensitive to relatively small change.

Medium:

Landscape character or resource of moderately valued landscape characteristics reasonably tolerant to change.

Low:

Landscape character or resource, the nature of which is largely tolerant to change.

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

·         The magnitude of landscape changes is classified as follows:

Large:

The landscape character or landscape resource would incur a major change.

Intermediate:

The landscape character or landscape resource would incur a moderate change.

Small:

The landscape or landscape resource would incur slight or barely perceptible change.

Negligible:

The landscape or landscape resource would incur no discernible change.

·         Identification of potential landscape mitigation measures.  These may take the form of adopting basic engineering design to prevent and/or minimize adverse landscape impacts before adopting other mitigation or compensatory measures to alleviate the impacts.  Potential mitigation measures shall also include the preservation of vegetation and natural landscape resources, transplanting trees with good condition and high amenity value, provision of screen planting, re-vegetation of disturbed lands, compensatory planting, aesthetic design of aboveground structures including provision of finishes, colour scheme, texture of materials used and any measures to mitigate the impact on the existing and planned land use and visually sensitive receivers.  A programme for the mitigation measures is provided.  The agencies responsible for the funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the mitigation measures are identified. 

·         Prediction of the significance of landscape impacts before and after the implementation of the mitigation measures.  By synthesizing the magnitude of the various impacts and the sensitivity of the various landscape resources, it is possible to categorize impacts in a logical, well-reasoned and consistent fashion.  Table 9.1 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 change and a low-medium-high degree of sensitivity of landscape resource/character. 

Table 9.1     Relationship between Landscape Sensitivity and Magnitude of Change in Defining Impact Significance

Magnitude of Change

Large

Moderate

Moderate / Substantial

Substantial

Intermediate

Slight / Moderate

Moderate

Moderate / Substantial

Small

Insubstantial / Slight

Slight / Moderate

Moderate

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

 

Low

Medium

High

Sensitivity of Landscape Character Area and Resource

Note:  All impacts are Adverse unless otherwise noted with Beneficial.

·         The significance of landscape impacts is categorized as follows:

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 existing landscape quality.

Insubstantial:

No discernible change in the existing landscape quality.

·         Prediction of Acceptability of Impacts.  An overall assessment of the acceptability, or otherwise, of the impacts according to the five criteria set out in Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM.

Visual Impact Assessment Methodology

9.3.2          The visual impacts have been assessed according to the following procedures.

·         Identification of the Visual Envelope during the construction and operation phases of the project.  This is achieved by site visit and desktop study of topographic maps, photographs and preparation of cross-sections to determine visibility of the Project from various locations. 

·         Identification of the VSRs within the Visual Envelope at construction and operation phases.  These are the people who would reside within, work within, play within, or travel through, the Visual Envelope.

·         Assessment of the degree of sensitivity of the VSRs.  Factors considered include: 

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

-   other factors which are considered (as required by EIAO GN 8/2010) 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. 

·         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 terms of whether there are “many“, “medium” and “few” VSRs in any one category of VSR.

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

·         Assessment of the potential magnitude of visual changes.  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. 

·         The magnitude of visual changes is classified as follows: 

Large:

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

Intermediate:

The VSRs would suffer a moderate change 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.

·         Identification of potential visual mitigation measures.  These may take the form of adopting basic engineering design to prevent and/or minimize adverse visual impacts before adopting other mitigation or compensatory measures to alleviate the impacts.  Potential mitigation measures shall also include the preservation of vegetation and natural landscape resources, provision of screen planting, re-vegetation of disturbed lands, compensatory planting, aesthetic design of aboveground structures including provision of finishes, colour scheme, texture of materials used and any measures to mitigate the impact on the existing and planned land use and visually sensitive receivers.  A programme for the mitigation measures is provided.  The agencies responsible for the funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the mitigation measures are identified. 

·         Prediction of the significance of visual impacts before and after the implementation of the mitigation measures.  By synthesizing the magnitude of the various visual impacts and the sensitivity of the VSRs, and the numbers of VSRs that are affected, it is possible to categorize the degree of significance of the impacts in a logical, well-reasoned and consistent fashion.  Table 9.2 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 change and a low-medium-high degree of sensitivity of VSRs. 


 

Table 9.2     Relationship between Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs) Sensitivity and Magnitude of Change in Defining Impact Significance

Magnitude of Change

Large

Moderate

Moderate / Substantial

Substantial

Intermediate

Slight / Moderate

Moderate

Moderate / Substantial

Small

Insubstantial / Slight

Slight / Moderate

Moderate

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

 

Low

Medium

High

Sensitivity of Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

Note:  All impacts are Adverse unless otherwise noted with Beneficial.

·         The significance of visual impacts is categorized as follows:

Substantial:

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

Moderate:

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

Slight:

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

Insubstantial:

No discernible change in the existing visual quality.

·         Prediction of Acceptability of Impacts.  An overall assessment of the acceptability, or otherwise, of the impacts according to the five criteria set out in Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM. 

9.4              Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

9.4.1          Relevant plan(s) and/or studies which may identify areas of high landscape value, country parks, coastal protection area, green belt and conservation area designations are reviewed.  Any guidelines on landscape and urban design strategies and frameworks that may affect the appreciation of the Project are also reviewed.  The aim is to gain an insight of the future outlook of the affected area so as to assess whether the Project can fit into the surrounding setting.  Any conflict with statutory town plan(s) is highlighted and appropriate follow-up action is recommended. 

9.4.2          The Study Area of the Project is covered under the following statutory plans and departmental plants which will be reviewed in this assessment:

·         Eastern part of the Approved Tung Chung Extension Area Outline Zoning Plan No. S/I-TCE/2 (7.2.2017);

·         Western part of the North-East Lantau Outline Development Plan No. D/I – NEL/1;

·         Siu Ho Wan Layout Plan (LP) No. L/I-SHW/1A; and

·         Draft Tai Ho Outline Zoning Plan No. S/I-TH/1.

9.4.3          Statutory plans including the Approved Tung Chung Extension Area Outline Zoning Plan No. S/I-TCE/2 and the Draft Tai Ho Outline Zoning Plan No. S/I-TH/1 cover the western extent of the 500m Assessment Area.  Zoning including ‘Road’, ‘G/IC’, ‘Green Belt’ and “Coastal Protection Area” are located southwest of the Project.  

9.4.4          Departmental plans including the North-East Lantau Outline Development Plan No. D/I-NEL/1 and Siu Ho Wan Layout Plan No. L/I-SHW/1A cover the eastern portion of the 500m Assessment Area.  These departmental plans generally reflected the existing and planned uses which are zoned predominantly ‘Other Specified Uses’ and ‘Government’. 

9.4.5          The development site boundary and the majority of its associated works will fall outside these statutory and departmental plans. Although the extents of the proposed western access via Tai Ho Interchange will be covered by the approved Tung Chung Extension Area Outline Zoning Plan No. S/I-TCE/2 and Utilities connecting to SHWSTW will be partially covered by Siu Ho Wan Layout Plan No. L/I-SHW/1A, they are in line with the designated zonings stipulated under the plans.

9.5              Baseline Study

Landscape Resources

9.5.1          The details of Baseline Landscape Resources (LRs) which will be potentially affected by the Project are described in Table 9.3a and the summary table of its sensitivity is presented in Table 9.3b. The locations of baseline landscape resources are mapped in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/241.  Photo views illustrating the landscape resources within the study area are illustrated in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/242.

Landscape Character Areas

9.5.2          The details of Baseline Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) which will be potentially affected by the Project are described in Table 9.4a and the summary table of its sensitivity is presented in Table 9.4b.   The locations of baseline landscape character areas are mapped in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/243, with reference to Study on Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong.  Photo views illustrating the landscape character areas within the study area are illustrated in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/244.

 

 

 

 

 

Table 9.3a   Baseline Landscape Resources (LRs)

LRs

Description

LR1

Secondary Woodland

The LR refers to the clusters of secondary woodland found on the foothills near Tai Ho Wan and Siu Ho Wan, it is mostly scattered over the slopes. Some extents of the LR lie within the boundary of Lantau North (Extension) Country Park and are broken up by shrubland and grassland. Dominant species include Litsea gltinosa, Bridelia tomentosa, and Celtis sinensis. No species of conservation importance was recorded within this LR. The quality and value of these natural landscape resources is considered as ‘High’. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘High’.

LR2

Hillside Shrubland & Grassland

The LR refers to the patches of shrubland and grassland on the hillsides near Tai Ho Wan and Siu Ho Wan and extend down the steep slopes of the surrounding mountains. The extents of the LR are broken up by bare rocks and secondary woodland. Three floral species of conservation importance were found within this LR during the survey, including Arundina graminifolia, Diospyros vacciniodes and Nepethes mirabilis. In addition, common species include Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Baeckea frutescens, Miscanthus spp, and Dicranopteris pedata combined with grassland. The landscape quality and rarity is considered as ‘High’, but consider to its medium maturity, the overall sensitivity is considered as High’.

LR3

Coastal Waters

The LR refers to the seawater (excluding transitional waters) within in the vicinity. This LR covers a large proportion of the Assessment Area, therefore the rarity is considered to be ‘Medium’. Since there are reclamation works nearby (i.e HKBCF), therefore the landscape quality and value is considered to be medium. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘Medium’.

LR4

Transitional Waters

The LR refers to the waters to the south of North Lantau Highway in Tai Ho Wan, where a mixture of freshwater and marine waters exist, it is localized to the natural coastal and estuary which is providing quality landscape amenity and supporting adjacent coastal habitat. As the coast is located near the Tai Ho Stream Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and ecologically sensitive, it has a ‘low’ capacity to accept change. The landscape quality and value is considered to be high. The overall sensitivity is ‘High’.

LR5

Rocky Shore

The LR refers to small stretches of rocky shore located at Tai Ho Wan. Plant species including some mangrove and backshore vegetation (including Aegiceras corniculatum, Clerodendrum inerme, Scaevola taccada and Pandanus tectorius) colonised in the rocky crevices and along the shore. As the coast is located near the Tai Ho Stream Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and ecologically sensitive, the landscape quality and value is considered to be high. The overall sensitivity is ‘High’.

LR7

Natural Watercourse

This LR refers to natural watercourses within the assessment area, the streams originate from the Country Park feeding the larger streams which then enter Tai Ho Wan. Given the naturalness and relative vulnerability of the LR it is considered to have a ‘Low’ capacity to accept change. The landscape quality and value is considered to be high. The overall sensitivity is also ‘High’.

LR8

Channelised Watercourse / Ditch

This LR refers to the artificial water channel within the assessment, it is located along the southern boundary of the SHWWTW. Given the naturalness and relative vulnerability of the LR it is considered to have a ‘High’ capacity to accept change. The landscape quality and value is considered to be low. The overall sensitivity is also ‘Low’.

LR9

Plantation

The LR refers to the amenity tree / vegetation planting which found within urbanized area, such as engineered slopes and pedestrian / roadside planters. Exotic species commonly found in the canopy included Acacia confusa, Acacia mangium, Eucalyptus spp., Lophostemon conferta, Aporosa dioica, Sterculia lanceolata, Daphniphyllum calycinum, Psychotria asiatica, Blechnum orientale. An individual of plant of conservation importance, Cibotium barometz, was recorded at the ravine under this LR. There is no Old and Valuable Trees (OVTs) or Potentially Registrable Old and Valuable Trees (POVT) were found within this LR. The landscape value and quality is considered to be medium. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘Medium’.

LR10

Existing Siu Ho Wan Depot with Amenity Planting

This LR covers trees and shrubs planting within the Siu Ho Wan Depot (SHD). Trees and shrubs are found at the periphery and some isolated planter beds in the Depot. Trees planted within SHD are all common species, including Acacia confusa, Bauhinia blakeana, Ficus virens, Hibiscus tiliaceus and Livistona chinensis. There is no OVTs, endangered and protected species identified within this resource. Most of the trees are semi-mature to mature size. It is a common landscape resource. The quality of the existing vegetation is considered to be medium. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘Medium’.

LR11

Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting

This LR covers roadside tree and shrub within the amenity planting areas, embankments at both sides the North Lantau Expressway. Plantings found are all common species, including Acacia confusa, Bombax ceiba, Nerium oleander, Hibiscus tiliaceus and Leucaena leucocephala. Most of the trees are semi-mature to mature size. It is a common landscape resource. The landscape quality and value is considered to be medium. The overall sensitivity is also ‘Medium’.

LR12

Urbanised Development

The LR refers to the urbanised areas of Siu Ho Wan area including the SHWWTW and SHWSTW. Given the man-made nature of this LR, the quality and value is considered to be low. The overall sensitivity is considered to be ‘Low’.

LR13

Artificial Seawall

The LR refers to the artificial coastline along reclaimed land of SHW, it is a rubble mound revetment constructed with pedestrian and vehicular parapet along footpath/ road interfaces. Given the man-made nature, the quality and value is considered to be medium. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘Low’.

 

 

 

 

Table 9.3b    Sensitivity of Landscape Resources (LRs)

ID

Landscape Resources (LRs)

Quality of LR

Rarity of LR

Importance of LR

Ability to accommodate change

Maturity of LR

Sensitivity

 (High / Medium / Low)

 (High / Medium / Low)

(Local / Territorial / Regional / Global)

 (Low / Medium /   High)

 (Low / Medium / High)

 (Low / Medium /   High)

LR1

Secondary Woodland

High

High

Local

Low

Medium

High

LR2

Hillside Shrubland & Grassland

High

High

Local

Low

Medium

High

LR3

Coastal Waters

Medium

Medium

Local

Medium

N/A

Medium

LR4

Transitional Waters

High

High

Local

Low

N/A

High

LR5

Rocky Shore

High

High

Local

Low

N/A

High

LR7

Natural Watercourse

High

High

Local

Low

N/A

High

LR8

Channelised Watercourse / Ditch

Low

Low

Local

High

N/A

Low

LR9

Plantation

Medium

Medium

Local

Medium

Medium

Medium

LR10

Existing Siu Ho Wan Depot with Amenity Planting

Medium

Medium

Local

Medium

Medium

Medium

LR11

Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting

Medium

Medium

Local

High

Medium

Medium

LR12

Urbanised Development

Low

Low

Local

High

N/A

Low

LR13

Artificial Seawall

Medium

Low

Local

High

N/A

Low

 

 

 


 

Table 9.4a   Baseline Landscape Character Areas (LCAs)

LCAs

Description

LCA1

Upland Hillside Landscape

The LCA refers to densely vegetation area on the slopes of the mountains which forms the backdrop to Siu Ho Wan. Part of this area falls within the Lantau North (Extension) Country Park. It also refers to undeveloped upland hillside landscape surrounding the study area generally above 40mPD. The natural terrain comprises mainly shrubland/ grassland with some strips of secondary woodland and rocky outcrops. As a result of the natural unaltered terrain, the capacity to accept change is ‘Low’. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘High’.

LCA3

Inshore Water Landscape

The LCA refers to the waterscape which located to the north and west of SHD. The coastal interface is predominantly constructed in artificial stone revetment. Seascape is open to the north towards Tuen Mun. The LCA has historically been encroached upon through phases of reclamation to form the NLH, AEL, Tung Chung waterfront and HKIA; it is therefore considered that the LR has a medium capacity to accept change. The LCA is very common; its rarity is therefore ‘Medium’. Seascape is a contributor to landscape character, the landscape value and quality is considered to be ‘Medium’. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘Medium’.

LCA4

Industrial Urban Landscape

The LCA refers to the utilities/ infrastructure area in Siu Ho Wan, including SHWSTW, Siu Ho Wan Government Maintenance Depot, Discovery Bay Tunnel Administration Building and New Lantau Bus Company Siu Ho Wan Depot. As this landscape has been heavily developed, it is considered to have a high capacity to accept change. The landscape contains some mature planting and formalised landscape spaces which provide some landscape amenity, in this case the landscape value and quality is ‘Medium’. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘Low’.

LCA5

Transportation Corridor Landscape

The LCA refers to the transport corridor approaching the reclaimed land of Siu Ho Wan from the east containing the SHD, NLH, LAR and Tung Chung Road. The NLH comprises a 6-lane highway delineated with concrete barriers and boundary fencing. The corridor is entirely built on top of reclaimed landscape. Vegetation cover is restricted to narrow verges with grass, hedge and tree planting. As a result of the man-made nature of the LCA, it is considered to have a high capacity to accept change. Infrastructure routes are not considered to be rare therefore the rating is ‘Low’. The overall sensitivity is considered as ‘Medium’.

 

 


 

Table 9.4b    Sensitivity of Landscape Character Area (LCAs)

ID

Landscape Resources (LRs)

Quality of LR

Rarity of LR

Importance of LR

Ability to accommodate change

Maturity of LR

Sensitivity

 (High / Medium / Low)

 (High / Medium / Low)

(Local / Territorial / Regional / Global)

 (Low / Medium /   High)

 (Low / Medium / High)

 (Low / Medium /   High)

LCA1

Upland Hillside Landscape

High

High

Local

Low

High

High

LCA3

Inshore Water Landscape

Medium

Medium

Local

Medium

N/A

Medium

LCA4

Industrial Urban Landscape

Medium

Low

Local

High

N/A

Low

LCA5

Transport-ation Corridor Landscape

Low

Low

Local

High

N/A

Medium

 

Broad Brush Tree Survey

9.5.3          A board brush tree survey was carried out within existing SHD and proposed works areas that fall outside the existing SHD and within Scheme Boundary to identify dominant tree species, maturity, rarity and any plant species of conservation interest, etc. which would be potentially affected and to provide baseline information on the landscape resources and landscape character areas. 

9.5.4          It is estimated that approximately 510 nos. of trees were found within existing SHD and approximately 70 nos of tree were found within at works areas that fall outside the existing SHD and within Scheme Boundary. Approximate tree locations are provided in Appendix 9.1.  The dominant tree species include Archontophoenix alexandrae, Bauhinia blakeana, Ficus virens, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Livistona chinensis and Phoenix roebelenii.  They are generally of semi-mature to mature size, with DBH varies from size 95mm to 500mm, 1.5m to 12m height and 1m to 10m spread.  There is no OVT and tree of specific conservation interest identified within the project boundary.  All tree species surveyed are common in Hong Kong.    

Visual Envelope (VE)

9.5.5          The visual envelope of the Project during the construction and operation phases is illustrated in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/245.  Visual Envelopes have been identified by site visit, desktop study of topographic maps and photographs to determine visibility of the Project from various locations.  The prominent location of the Project gives rise to a large visual envelope which extends beyond the vicinity in several directions, i.e. embraced by the ridgeline of Lantau Island to the south and the ridgelines of Castle Peak and Tai Tam in Tuen Mun Area to the north.

Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

9.5.6          Within the visual envelope, the key VSR have been identified and is listed, together with the baseline assessment and sensitivity, in Table 9.5 and mapped in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/245.  The photo viewpoints taken from the key VSRs are illustrated in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/246.

9.5.7          The sensitivity of VSRs is assessed in accordance with EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010.  Key factors including type of VSRs, number of individuals within the VSRs, quality of existing view, availability of alternative views, degree of visibility, duration of view and frequency of view of the VSRs are evaluated.

9.5.8          Types of potential VSRs are generally categorized in accordance with the landuse of the areas where the VSRs are located.  There are 4 types of VSRs, namely Residential, Recreational, Transportation and Occupational VSRs.  

9.5.9          VSR3 and VSR12a are residential VSRs with few to many number of individuals.  The quality of existing view is good.  They both have alternative views and full to partial degree of visibility.  They have long duration of view and frequent view.  Their sensitivity is considered as medium to high. 

9.5.10       VSR1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 11 and 12b are recreational VSRs with few to medium numbers of individuals.  The quality of existing view varies from good to fair.  They all have alternative views and full to glimpse degree of visibility.  They all have short to medium duration of view and occasional view.  Their sensitivity is considered as low to medium. 

9.5.11       VSR9 are Occupational VSRs with few number of individuals.  The quality of existing view is fair.  They have alternative views and partial degree of visibility.  They have short duration of view and rare view.  Their sensitivity is considered as low. 

9.5.12       VSR7, 8, 10 13 and 14 are Transportation VSRs with few to medium number of individuals.  The quality of existing view varies from good to fair.  They all have alternative views and full degree of visibility.  They have short duration of view and rare view.  Their sensitivity is considered as Low.  


Table 9.5     Baseline Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs) and their Sensitivity       

VSR Groups

Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

Main Type of VSRs

Number of Individuals (Many/ Medium/ Few)

Quality of Existing View

(Good/Fair/ Poor)

Availability of Alternative Views

(Yes/No)

Degree of Visibility

(Full/ Partial/ Glimpse)

Duration of View (Long/ Medium/ Short)

Frequency of View (Frequent/ Occasional/ Rare)

Sensitivity

VSR1

Tung Chung New Town Extension Tung Chung East Development (TCNTE TCE Development)  - Future users of waterfront open space/ promenade at TCNTE TCE Development

Recreational

Medium

Good

Yes

Partial

Medium

Occasional

Medium

VSR2

Waterfront near Tung Chung Area 56 – Future recreational users of open space

Recreational

Medium

Fair

Yes

Partial

Medium

Occasional

Medium

VSR3

Pak Mong Village – Villagers

Residential

Few

Good

Yes

Partial

Long

Frequent

Medium

VSR4

Hong Kong Olympic Trail – Hikers

Recreational

Few

Good

Yes

Glimpse

Short

Occasional

Low

VSR5

Lo Fu Tau Country Trail - Hikers

Recreational

Few

Good

Yes

Partial

Short

Occasional

Low

VSR6

Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities – Future visitors

Recreational

Medium

Good

Yes

Full

Medium

Occasional

Medium

VSR7

Tai O – Tuen Mun Ferry - Passengers

Transportation

Few

Good

Yes

Full

Short

Rare

Low

VSR8

North Lantau Highway – Passengers and drivers

Transportation

Medium

Fair

Yes

Full

Short

Rare

Low

VSR9

Siu Ho Wan Government Maintenance Depot – Workers

Occupational

Few

Fair

Yes

Partial

Short

Rare

Low

VSR10

Along Tuen Mun Road and Castle Peak Road – Passengers and Drivers

Transportation

Medium

        Good

Yes

Full

Short

Rare

Low

VSR11

Tai Lam Country Park – Hikers

Recreational

Few

Good

Yes

Partial

Short

Occasional

Low

VSR12a

Tuen Mun South Coast - Residents

Residential

Many

Good

Yes

Full

Long

Frequent

High

VSR12b

Tuen Mun South Coast - Users of Tuen Mun Promenade

Recreational

Medium

Good

Yes

Full

Medium

Occasional

Medium

VSR13

Cheung Tung Road – Passengers and Drivers

Transportation

Few

Fair

Yes

Full

Short

Rare

Low

VSR14

Vehicular Access Bridge to North Lantau Highway

Transportation

Few

Fair

Yes

Full

Short

Rare

Low


9.6              Landscape Impact Assessment

Potential Sources of Landscape Impacts

9.6.1          The potential sources of landscape impact in the construction phase would include:

·               Demolition of existing depot facilities;

·               Pipe jacking works for installation of underground utilities and associated excavation and lateral support (ELS) works;

·               Piling works, pile cap construction and ELS works related to the construction of planned SHD Topside Development;

·               Pad footing foundation works;

·               Construction of SHO and modification of existing AEL/TCL tracks; as well as local access roads and emergency vehicular access (EVA);

·               Construction of podium deck; and

·               Reprovision of SHD facilities by stages (under the podium deck).

9.6.2          The source of landscape impacts during the operation phase would include:

·            Operation of the SHO;

·            Operation of the Reprovisioned SHD; and

·            Operation of western access road bridge.

9.6.3          The Sources and Description of Landscape impact is presented in Table 9.6a.

 

Table 9.6a  Sources and Description of Landscape Impacts during Construction and Operation Phases

ID No.

Landscape Resources/ Landscape Character Areas

Source of Impact from Project

Description of Unmitigated Impacts

Landscape Resources

LR1

Secondary Woodland

Nil

Nil

LR2

Hillside Shrubland & Grassland

Nil

Nil

LR3

Coastal Waters

Nil

Nil

LR4

Transitional Waters

Nil

Nil

 

LR5

Rocky Shore

Nil

Nil

 

LR7

Natural Watercourse

Nil

 

Nil

LR8

Channelised Watercourse / Ditch

Nil

Nil

LR9

Plantation

 

Construction and operation Phase:

  Upgrading and reprovision of the underground sewerage network

During construction phase, no trees but only vegetation would be affected by the works involved, it is anticipated that there would not be any significant landscape impact. 

 

During operation phase, it is anticipate that there would not be any landscape impact as the sewerage network is located underground. 

LR10

Existing Siu Ho Wan Depot with Amenity Planting

Construction Phase:

  Site clearance and site formation works

  Demolition of existing SHD facilities;

  Bored piling works, pile cap construction and excavation;

  Construction of SHO and modification of existing AEL/TCL tracks; and

  Illumination within construction site.

 

Operation Phase:

  Operation of SHO and Reprovisioned SHD

During construction phase, approximately 510 nos. of existing trees within SHD will be affected by the SHD Replanning Works.  Affected tree species include Archontophoenix alexandrae, Bauhinia blakeana, Ficus virens, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Livistona chinensis and Phoenix roebelenii.  They are generally of semi-mature to mature size, with DBH varies from size 95mm to 500mm, 1.5m to 12m height and 1m to 10m spread. 

LR11

Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting

Construction Phase:

  temporary works areas and storage area;

  Illumination within construction site.

  Construction of western access road bridge

  Upgrading and reprovision of the underground sewerage network    

 

Operation Phase:

  Operation of western access road bridge

  

During construction phase, there would be potential localized impact due to construction of the western access road bridge and the upgrading and reprovision of sewerage network and site clearance for temporary works area and storage area.  It is anticipated that no tree will be affected within this LR due to the construction works. 

 

During operation phase, there would be relatively small and localized change of landscape area due to the proposed aboveground structures. 

 

LR12

Urbanised Development

Construction and operation Phase:

  Upgrading and reprovision of the underground sewerage network

 

 

During construction phase, no trees but only vegetation would be affected by the potential upgrading and reprovision works involved, it is anticipated that there would not be any significant landscape impact. 

 

During operation phase, it is anticipate that there would not be any landscape impact as the upgrading works are underground in nature. 

LR13

Artificial Sea Wall

Nil

Nil

Landscape Character Area

LCA1

Upland Hillside Landscape Area

Nil

Nil

LCA3

Inshore Water Landscape

Nil

Nil

LCA4

Industrial Urban Landscape

Construction and operation Phase:

  Upgrading and reprovision of the underground sewerage network

 

During construction phase, no trees but vegetation would be affected by the potential upgrading and reprovision works involved, it is anticipated that there would not be any significant landscape impact.

 

During operation phase, it is anticipate that there would not be any landscape impact as the upgrading works are underground in nature. 

LCA5

Transportation Corridor Landscape

 

Construction Phase:

  Demolition of existing SHD facilities;

  Bored piling works, pile cap construction and excavation works related to the construction of planned SHD Topside Development;

  Construction of SHO and modification of existing AEL/TCL tracks; and

  Illumination within construction site.

 

 Operation Phase:

  Operation of SHO and Reprovisioned SHD

  Operation of western   access road bridge

 

During the construction phase, there will be significant change and landscape characters due to relatively extensive works areas which cover majority of this LCA. 

 

During operation phase, there would be relatively small and localized change of landscape character due to the proposed aboveground structures. 

 

 

Magnitude of Landscape Impacts

9.6.4          The magnitude of changes associated with the construction and operation of the Project are assessed and described in Table 9.6b and Table 9.6c.


Table 9.6b    Magnitude of change on Landscape Resources (LRs)

ID

Landscape Resources (LRs)

Compatibility with Surrounding Landscape (Good/ Fair/ Poor)

Remarks on Compatibility

Duration of Impact (Temporary / Permanent)

Reversibility of Change (Reversible/ Irreversible)

Magnitude of Change (Large/ Intermediate/
Small/ Negligible)

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

LR1

Secondary Woodland

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR2

Hillside Shrubland & Grassland

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR3

Coastal Waters

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR4

Transitional Waters

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR5

Rocky Shore

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR7

Natural Watercourse

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR8

Channelised Watercourse / Ditch

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR9

Plantation

Poor

Fair

There would be potential localized works in this LR. The works on this LR is surrounded by LR12. Compatibility with surrounding landscape is considered as Fair in construction stage and Good in operation stage.

Temporary

Permanent

Reversible

Reversible

Negligible

Negligible

LR10

Existing Siu Ho Wan Depot with Amenity Planting

Poor

Fair

Majority of the site works will be conducted within this LR.

This LR is surrounded by LR11 and LR13. Compatibility with surrounding landscape is considered as Poor in construction stage and Fair in operation stage.

Temporary

Permanent

Reversible

Reversible

Large

Large

LR11

Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting

Fair

Good

There would be potential localized works in this LR. The works on this LR is surrounded by LR9, LR10, LR12 and LR13. Compatibility with surrounding landscape is considered as Fair in construction stage and Good in operation stage.

Temporary

Permanent

Reversible

Reversible

Small

Negligible

LR12

Urbanised Development

Fair

Good

There would be potential localized works in this LR. The works on this LR is surrounded by LR9 and LR11. Compatibility with surrounding landscape is considered as Fair in construction stage and Good in operation stage.

Temporary

Permanent

Reversible

Reversible

Negligible

Negligible

LR13

Artificial Seawall

N/A

N/A

This LR falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

 


 

Table 9.6c    Magnitude of change on Landscape Character Area (LCAs)

ID

Landscape Character Area (LCAs)

Compatibility with Surrounding Landscape (Good/ Fair/ Poor)

Remarks on Compatibility

Duration of Impact (Temporary / Permanent)

Reversibility of Change (Reversible/ Irreversible)

Magnitude of Change (Large/ Intermediate/Small/ Negligible)

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

Construction Stage

Operation Stage

LCA1

Upland Hillside Landscape

N/A

N/A

This LCA falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LCA3

Inshore Water Landscape

N/A

N/A

This LCA falls outside the subject site and associated works. The Project will have no impact on it in general.

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LCA4

Industrial Urban Landscape

Fair

Fair

There would be potential localized works in this LCA.

This LCA is surrounded by LCA1, LCA2 and LCA5. Compatibility with surrounding landscape is considered as Fair in construction stage and Fair in operation stage.

Temporary

Permanent

Reversible

Reversible

Negligible

Negligible

LCA5

Transportation Corridor Landscape

Poor

Fair

The main site works will be conducted within this LCA.

This LCA is surrounded by LCA1, LCA3 and LCA4. Compatibility with surrounding landscape is considered as Poor in construction stage and Fair in operation stage.

Temporary

Permanent

Reversible

Reversible

Large

Intermediate

 


Significance of Unmitigated Landscape Impacts

9.6.5          It is expected that there would be impact to the LR10 - Existing Siu Ho Wan Depot with Amenity Planting within the existing SHD during the construction phase would be large as approximate 510 nos. of existing trees will be affected by the SHD Replanning Works.  The sensitivity of this LR is considered as medium.  The resultant significance of unmitigated landscape impact is considered moderate in construction and operation phases. 

9.6.6          During construction phase, it is anticipated there would be small and localized impact on LR11 - Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting.  No tree will be affected by construction of the proposed western access road bridge, upgrading and reprovision of the underground sewerage network and site formation for temporary works area and storage area.  The magnitude of change would be small during construction and negligible during operation.  The sensitivity of this LR is medium.  The resultant significance of unmitigated impact would be slight and insubstantial during construction and operation phase respectively.   

9.6.7          There would be insignificant impact on LR9 – Plantation and LR12 - Urbanised Development due to the potential works associated with the upgrading and reprovision of the underground sewerage network.  The magnitude of change would be negligible during construction and operation phases.  The sensitivity of the LR9 is medium and LR12 is low.  The resultant significance of unmitigated impact would be insubstantial during construction and operation phases.  

9.6.8          During construction phase, it is anticipated that there would be insignificant impact on LCA4 Industrial Urban Landscape due to the potential works associated with the upgrading and reprovision of the underground sewerage network. The magnitude of change would be negligible during construction and operation phases. The sensitivity of this LCA is Low. The resultant significance of unmitigated impact would be insubstantial during construction and operation phases.

9.6.9          For LCA5, Transportation Corridor Landscape, there would be large magnitude of direct landscape impact during construction phase as approximate 510 nos. of existing trees will be affected by the site formation works of SHD Replanning Works. The sensitivity of this LCA is considered as Medium. It is predicted that the resultant significance of unmitigated landscape impact on this LCA during construction and operation phases are Moderate.  

9.6.10       There would not be any discernable landscape impact on other LRs and LCAs and therefore significance of unmitigated impact on the remaining LRs and LCAs is insubstantial. 

9.7              Visual Impact Assessment

Sources of Visual Impacts

9.7.1          The sources of visual impacts in construction and operation phases would be the same as those for landscape impact (refer to Sections 9.6.1 and 9.6.2).

9.7.2          According to railway noise assessment findings in Section 4, noise mitigation measures including temporary noise canopy of 7m to 15m wide and cantilever barrier of 12m high (Figure Nos. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/162 to 163 refers), and a total of 7 sections of 15m wide noise canopy would be required to protect SHD Topside Development.  It is anticipated that the proposed temporary noise canopy and cantilever, and permanent noise canopy along the southern edge of the podium at +26.5mPD may generate potential visual intrusion to the surrounding sensitive receivers.

Magnitude of Visual Impacts

9.7.3          The magnitude of change during construction and operation phases is assessed based on the viewing distance, potential blockage of view, scale of Project, and compatibility of the Project with the surrounding landscape, duration of impacts and reversibility of change as shown in Table 9.7. 

9.7.4          The Project comprises the SHD Replanning Works involving the relocation of SHD facilities within existing SHD and the Reprovisioned SHD would be decked. Construction and operation of SHO which is an aboveground structure would be newly added.  During the construction phase, although the overall construction period would last for about 18 years and the works constructed are irreversible, the proposed replanning works are considered as medium compatibility with the surrounding as the construction works would be carried out by stages.  There would not be any potential blockage of view due to the proposed construction works.

9.7.5          During the construction phase, there would be intermediate magnitude of visual impact for VSR8, VSR13 and VSR14 who view the Project at a closer distance. It is predicted that the magnitude of visual change for VSR4 to VSR7 is considered as small due to the longer distance from the project site.

9.7.6          During the operational phase, it is anticipated that the Project would not cause any significant visual impact on adjacent VSRs as the aboveground structures (i.e. SHO and Reprovisioned SHD) will be integrated with the future SHD Topside Development and are considered to be highly compatible with the SHD Topside Development.  It is predicted that the magnitude of visual change due to the Project for VSR8 and VSR13 is considered as intermediate while magnitude of visual change due to the Project for VSR14 is considered as small.  It is predicted that the magnitude of visual change due to the Project for other VSRs is considered as negligible.

9.7.7          There would be negligible magnitude of change on VSR1, VSR2, VSR3, VSR9, VSR10, VSR11, VSR12a and VSR12b who view the Project at a very long distance and low-rise characteristic of the Project.  There would not be any impact on these VSRs during both construction and operation phases as any change would not be noticeable by naked eye from such far distance. They would not be affected as the Project site is not easily visible.

9.7.8          The proposed temporary noise barrier and canopy to be implemented by the developer(s) of SHD Topside Development would generate visual blockage and visual intrusion to the Phase 1 SHD Topside Development in the interim stage, especially for those in the lower floors.  The visual impact of these temporary noise barriers and canopy will be mitigated by appropriate detailed design, including suitable transparent material, appropriate colour selection of panels and supporting structures, or provision of planting of trees, shrubs and/ or climbers camouflage to the barriers, as well as incorporation of resistance to the effects of ultra-violet light on the plastic panels.  Guidelines on Design of Noise Barriers issued by Highway Department and EPD in 2003 would be followed.  With the implementation of the recommended mitigation measure, it is anticipated that the residual transient visual effects during interim phase can be alleviated to an acceptable level. 

9.7.9          The permanent noise canopy to be implemented by the developer(s) of SHD Topside Development will also adopt appropriate design as discussed in Section 9.7.8, where applicable, to mitigate the potential visual impact.   VSR8 and 13 represents the users of transportation with limited duration of visual obstruction due to the high to median travelling speed along the NLH and Cheung Tung Road.  It is therefore expected that there would be negligible magnitude of change on these VSRs with the implementation of appropriate measures.

Significance of Unmitigated Visual Impacts

9.7.10       The significance of visual impacts, before the implementation of mitigation measures, during the construction phase and operation phases are assessed and described in Table 9.11.   

9.7.11       It is anticipated that there would be negligible magnitude of visual change on the elevated Residential VSRs (VSR3) during construction phase and operation phase. The sensitivity of VSR3 is medium. The resultant significance of unmitigated visual impact on these VSRs would be insubstantial during construction and operation phases respectively. 

9.7.12       It is anticipated that there would be small magnitude of visual change on recreational VSRs (VSR4 and VSR5) and VSRs at the sea (VSR6) during construction phase, while the magnitude of visual change would be small to negligible during operation phase. The sensitivity of VSR4 and VSR5 is low and sensitivity of VSR6 is medium.  The resultant significance of unmitigated visual impact on these VSRs would be slight during construction and insubstantial during operation phases respectively.  During construction and operational phase, it is predicted that there would be negligible magnitude of visual change on the nearby Recreational VSR (VSR1 and VSR2). The sensitivity of VSR1 and VSR2 is medium and thus the resultant significance of unmitigated visual impact on VSR1 would be insubstantial during construction and operation phases.

9.7.13       For Transportation  VSRs (VSR8, VSR13 and VSR14), it is predicted that there would be intermediate magnitude of visual change on these VSRs during construction phase, while the magnitude of visual change is expected to be small to intermediate during operation phase.  The sensitivity of those VSRs are low.  The resultant significance of unmitigated visual impact on VSR8, VSR13 and VSR14 would be moderate and slight during construction and operation phases respectively. For Transportation VSR (VSR7), it is predicted that there would be small and negligible magnitude of visual change during construction and operational phase respectively. The sensitivity of VSR7 is low. The resultant significance of unmitigated visual impact on VSR 7 would be slight and insubstantial during construction and operational phase respectively.

9.7.14       For institutional VSRs (VSR9), it is predicted that there would be negligible magnitude of change during construction and operational phase. The sensitive of VSR9 is low. The resultant significance of unmitigated visual impact on VSR9 would be insubstantial during construction and operational phase.

9.7.15       For the VSRs located far away from the Project or with no direct views (VSR10, VSR11, VSR12a and VSR12b), it is expected that there would be negligible magnitude of visual change on these VSRs during construction and operation phases. The sensitivity of these VSRs are high and medium respectively, and the resultant significance of unmitigated visual impact would be insubstantial during both construction and operation phases.  

Recommended Photomontage Viewpoints

9.7.16       Computer generated photomontages will be prepared to illustrate the potential landscape and visual impact of the Project.  The criteria for the selection of representative vantage point for photomontages include: -

·         the vantage point which covers the aboveground structures of SHO and Reprovisioned SHD viewed from major public viewpoint represents key VSRs or VSR groups who would be potentially affected by the Project; and

·         the vantage point which represents the worst case scenarios and demonstrate the compatibility of the aboveground structures to the adjacent visual context and illustrate the visual effect during Day 1 without mitigation measures, Day 1 with mitigation measures and Year 10 with mitigation measures.

9.7.17       Based on the location of the SHO and Reprovisioned SHD, the proposed vantage points from key representative VSRs are mapped in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/245.  The following photomontages taken from representative VSRs are prepared to illustrate the potential landscape and visual impact of the Project on the respective VSRs: 

·         Photomontages for VSRs –  TCNTE TCE Development (VSR1);

·         Photomontages for VSRs – North Lantau Highway (VSR8);

·         Photomontages for VSRs – Cheung Tung Road (VSR13); and

·         Photomontages for VSRs – Vehicular Access Bridge to North Lantau Highway (VSR14).

9.7.18       The locations of the photomontage view point are shown in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/245, and the photomontage is shown in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/248 to 254.


Table 9.7  Magnitude of Visual Changes during Construction and Operation Phases

VSR Groups

Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)

Approx. Closest Viewing Distance to Project Site (m)

 

Potential Blockage of

View

(Full / Partial /Glimpse/ Nil)

Scale of

Development

(Large / Medium /

Small)

 

Compatibility of the Project with the Surrounding landscape

(Good / Fair / Poor)

 

Duration of

Impacts

(Long/ Medium/ short)

Reversibility of

Change

(Yes / No)

Magnitude of Changes

(Large / Intermediate / Small /

Negligible)

Construction

Operation

VSR1

Tung Chung New Town Extension Tung Chung East Development (TCNTE TCE Development) - Future users of waterfront open space/ promenade at TCNTE TCE Development

1470

Partial

Small

Fair

Long

No

Negligible

Negligible

VSR2

The Visionary – Waterfront near Tung Chung Area 56

2825

Nil

Negligible

N/A

N/A

N/A

Negligible

Negligible

VSR3

Pak Mong Village – Villagers

1130

Partial

Small

Fair

Long

No

Negligible

Negligible

VSR4

Hong Kong Olympic Trail – Hikers

1930

Partial

Small

Fair

Long

No

Small

Negligible

VSR5

Lo Fu Tau Country Trail - Hikers

1525

Nil

Small

Fair

Long

No

Small

Negligible

VSR6

Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities – Visitors

2390

Partial

Medium

Poor

Long

No

Small

Negligible

VSR7

Tai O – Tuen Mun Ferry - Passengers

1825

Partial

Small

Poor

Long

No

Small

Negligible

VSR8

North Lantau Highway – Passengers and Drivers

275

Partial

Large

Good

Long

No

Intermediate

Intermediate

VSR9

Siu Ho Wan Government Maintenance Depot – Workers

120

Partial

Medium

Fair

Long

No

Negligible

Negligible

VSR 10

Along Tuen Mun Road and Castle Peak Road – Passengers and Drivers

5870

Nil

Large

Good

Nil

No

Negligible

Negligible

VSR 11

Tai Lam Country Park – Hikers

8315

Nil

Large

Poor

Nil

No

Negligible

Negligible

VSR 12a

Tuen Mun South Coast - Residents

7100

Nil

Large

Poor

Nil

No

Negligible

Negligible

VSR 12b

Tuen Mun South Coast - Users of Tuen Mun Promenade

6955

Nil

Large

Poor

Nil

No

Negligible

Negligible

VSR 13

Cheung Tung Road – Passengers and Drivers

50

Partial

Large

Good

Long

No

Intermediate

Intermediate

VSR14

Vehicular Access Bridge to North Lantau Highway

40

Partial

Large

Good

Long

No

Intermediate

Small


9.8              Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

9.8.1          Tree protection for existing tree/trees to be retained on site should be incorporated as good site practice measures during the construction phase of the Project. The proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures in the construction and operation are listed in Tables 9.8 and 9.9 below and illustrated in Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/247. 

Table 9.8  Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures for Construction Phase

 

ID No.

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

CM1

Trees unavoidably affected by the works should be transplanted as far as possible in accordance with DEVB TC (W) 7/2015 – Tree Preservation or LAO PN 7/2007 - Tree Preservation and Tree Removal Application for Building Development in Private Projects where applicable.

CM2

Control of night-time lighting glare

CM3

Erection of decorative screen hoarding which should be compatible with the surrounding setting.

CM4

Management of facilities on work sites by controlling the height and disposition/arrangement of all facilities on the works site to minimize visual impact to adjacent VSRs.

CM5

All hard and soft landscape areas disturbed temporarily during construction should be reinstated on like-to-like basis, to the satisfaction of the relevant Government Departments.

 

 

Table 9.9  Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures for Operation Phase

 

ID No.

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

OM1

Aesthetically pleasing design as regard to the form, material and finishes shall be incorporated to SHD, SHO and other aboveground structures so as to blend in the existing and future structures to the adjacent landscape and visual context. 

OM2

All lighting should be carefully designed and controlled to minimize light pollution and night-time glare to nearby VSRs, and to blend in the existing adjacent landscape and visual context.

OM3

Compensatory planting shall be determined during the Tree Removal Application process under DEVB TC (W) 7/2015 or LAO PN 7/2007 where applicable.  Compensatory planting will be implemented by future developer(s) of SHD Topside Development. 

 


 

9.9              Residual Impacts

Residual Landscape Impacts

9.9.1          After implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, residual landscape impacts of significance during construction and operation phases are described below. 

9.9.2          For LR11 - Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting, no tree will be affected by the works.  With the reinstatement of disturbed landscape areas during construction, it is predicted that the residual impact on LR11 would be slight during construction and insubstantial during day 1 and year 10 of operation. 

9.9.3          For LR10 – Existing Siu Ho Wan Depot with Amenity Planting, there would be moderate residual impact during construction phase as a result of approximately 510 trees to be affected due to the construction works. Approximately 80% or more trees would be felled and compensated in accordance with DEVB TC(W) 7/2015 – Tree Preservation or LAO PN 7/2007 where applicable. Having considered the species, size, existing health condition and structure form of the trees identified under the broad brush tree survey, it is estimated that up to 20% of the trees maybe suitable for transplantation. Trees will be transplanted to SHD Topside Development as far as practicable and due to the construction phasing, temporary holding nursery will be required for the transplanted trees in the interim before completion of the podium deck of SHD Topside Development. Temporary vacant area available within existing SHD would be utilized as temporary holding nursery, other suitable locations outside existing SHD boundary would also be explored as temporary holding nursery during construction phase should there be not enough space to accommodate all of the trees to be transplanted.  The exact number of transplanted trees and the corresponding tree transplanting proposals would be determined in the subsequent detailed design stage when further detailed tree survey findings are available taking into account of the factors as stipulated in DEVB TC(W) 7/2015 or LAO PN 7/2007 where applicable, such as suitability for transplanting with respect to tree species, size, tree conditions (i.e. tree form/amenity value/structural condition) and transportability, cost-effectiveness and availability of suitable permanent receptor sites.  For tree compensation, with reference to “Characteristics of Major Local Tree Species Propagated by AFCD”, the species to be planted should comprise predominantly native species. Compensatory planting shall be determined during the Tree Removal Application process under DEVB TC (W) 7/2015 or LAO PN 7/2007 where applicable. The implementation of compensatory planting should be of a ratio not less than 1:1 in terms of number. The final tree species mix, planting theme and proposed ranges of tree size will be determined in the detailed design stage of future developer(s) of SHD Topside Development.

9.9.4          There would also be moderate impact on LCA5, Transportation Corridor Landscape Area, during construction phase.  However, with the implementation of mitigation measures, there would be slight residual impact on this LCA in day 1 of operation and would be reduced to insubstantial in Year 10 upon reinstatement of the affected area.  Compensatory tree planting under the deck of the Reprovisioned SHD would not allow survival of tree.  Availability of area outside SHD boundary but within Scheme Boundary for compensatory tree planting would be reviewed in detailed design and future project implementation with due consideration of space availability, operational safety along live tracks, etc.  However, about 30% of the podium deck of SHD Topside Development (i.e. within SHD boundary) will be planted with trees, shrubs or other plants in accordance with the Sustainable Building Design (SBD) Guidelines, the landscape amenity in Siu Ho Wan area will be further enhanced by the SHD Topside Development.  As SHD Topside Development will be a concurrent project on the same location of the Project, the compensation planting for the Project to be carried out at SHD Topside Development is considered as an effective mitigation measures to compensate tree loss due to the Project.  Cumulative landscape impact with SHD Topside Development is discussed in Section 9.10.4.

9.9.5          It is expected that the remaining LRs and LCAs would have insubstantial residual impact with the implementation of mitigation measures.    


Table 9.10   Significance of landscape Impacts during Construction and Operation Phases

ID No.

 

Landscape Resources/ Landscape Character Areas

Sensitivity

(Low, Medium, High)

Magnitude of Change (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large)

Impact Significance of Residual Impact BEFORE Mitigation
(Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Impact Significance of Residual Impact AFTER Mitigation
(Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

Landscape Resources

LR1

Secondary Woodland

High

High

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR2

Hillside Shrubland & Grassland

High

High

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR3

Coastal Waters

Medium

Medium

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR4

Transitional Waters

High

High

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR5

Rocky Shore

High

High

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR7

Natural Watercourse

High

High

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR8

Channelised Watercourse / Ditch

Low

Low

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LR9

Plantation

Medium

Medium

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Not Required

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR10

Amenity Planting within the Siu Ho Wan Depot

Medium

Medium

Large

Large

Moderate

Moderate

CM1,

CM4, CM5

OM1 to OM3(1)

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

LR11

Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting

Medium

Medium

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM5

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR12

Urbanised Development

Low

Low

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Not Required

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LR13

Artificial Sea Wall

Low

Low

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Landscape Character Area

LCA1

Upland Hillside Landscape Area

High

High

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LCA3

Inshore Water Landscape

Medium

Medium

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LCA4

Industrial Urban Landscape

Low

Low

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Not Required

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LCA5

Transportation Corridor Landscape

Medium

Medium

Large

Intermediate

Moderate

 Moderate

CM1 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3(1)

Moderate

Slight

Insubstantial

Note:

(1)    Compensatory planting shall be determined during the Tree Removal Application process under DEVB TC(W) No. 7/2015 or LAO PN 7/2007 where applicable. 

 


Residual Visual Impacts

9.9.6          After implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, residual visual impacts of significance during construction and operation phases are described below. 

9.9.7          As illustrated in the proposed photomontages, it is anticipated that there would be negligible residual impact on VSR1, and moderate residual impact on VSR8, VSR13 and VSR14 during the construction phase.  With the implementation of operation mitigation measures including adoption of aesthetic design of aboveground structures, the residual impact would be reduced to slight in Day 1 of operation and Year 10 of operation.  

9.9.8          During construction phase, with the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, there would be slight residual impact on VSR4 to VSR7.  The residual impact would be reduced to insubstantial with the aesthetic design of aboveground structures in both Day 1 and Year 10 of operation.  

 


 


Table 9.11   Significance of Visual Impacts during Construction and Operation Phases

ID No.

VSRs

Sensitivity

(Low, Medium, High)

Magnitude of Change (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large)

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Significance of Residual Impact

(Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

VSR1

Tung Chung New Town Extension Tung Chung East Development (TCNTE TCE Development)

Medium

Medium

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR2

The Visionary

Medium

Medium

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR3

Pak Mong Village

Medium

Medium

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR4

Hong Kong Olympic Trail

Low

Low

Small

Negligible

Slight

insubstantial

CM2 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3

Slight

Insub-stantial

Insub-stantial

VSR5

Lo Fu Tau Country Trail

Low

Low

Small

Negligible

Slight

insubstantial

CM2 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3

Slight

Insub-stantial

Insub-stantial

VSR6

Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (HKBCF)

Medium

Medium

Small

Negligible

Slight

insubstantial

CM2 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3

Slight

Insub-stantial

Insub-stantial

VSR7

Tai O – Tuen Mun Ferry

Low

Low

Small

Negligible

Slight

insubstantial

CM2 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3

Slight

Insub-stantial

Insub-stantial

VSR8

North Lantau Highway

Low

Low

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate

Slight

CM2 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3

Moderate

Slight

Slight

VSR9

Siu Ho Wan Government Maintenance Depot

Low

Low

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR 10

Along Tuen Mun Road and Castle Peak Road

Low

Low

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR 11

Tai Lam Country Park

Low

Low

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR 12a

Tuen Mun South Coast

High

High

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR 12b

Tuen Mun South Coast

Medium

Medium

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

VSR 13

Cheung Tung Road

Low

Low

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate

Moderate

CM2 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3

Moderate

Slight

Slight

VSR14

Vehicular Access Bridge to North Lantau Highway

Low

Low

Intermediate

Small

Moderate

Slight

CM2 to CM5,

OM1 to OM3

Moderate

Slight

Slight


9.10           Cumulative Impacts

9.10.1       Cumulative landscape and visual impacts during construction and operation phases from other projects in the vicinity are assessed.  Key concurrent projects include Comprehensive Residential and Commercial Development atop SHD (SHD Topside Development), Tuen Mun – Chek Lap Kok Link (TM-CLKL) and Tung Chung New Town Extension (TCNTE) – Tung Chung East (TCE) Development.

9.10.2       Other concurrent projects as described in Section 2.6 and illustrated on Figure No. NEX1062/S/SHD/ACM/Z10/103.

Comprehensive Residential and Commercial Development atop SHD

9.10.3       SHD Topside Development comprises residential towers would have a maximum building height of approx. +106mPD to provide residential dwellings along with other commercial/retail facilities.

9.10.4       As the SHD Topside Development would be developed atop of the Reprovisioned SHD site, no additional landscape impact on Landscape Resources is expected. However, due to the large scale of changes on LCA5, it is considered that the adverse impacts cannot be mitigated effectively, thus, the residual impacts in day 1 operation will still remain in a slight level, but when the recommended measures proposed by the SHD Topside Development are well established, residual impact on this LCA would be further reduced to insubstantial by Year 10 of operation.

9.10.5       The SHD Topside Development would be constructed in 4 main phases, and would be on top of concrete slab above Reprovisioned SHD. Due to the effect of visual obstruction by the SHD Topside Development cannot be completely alleviated, moderate cumulative residual impacts would still be experienced by VSR1, VSR 8, VSR 13 and VSR 14. As the proposed SHD Topside Development has introduced landscape visual corridors for enhancing visual connectivity to the foothills in the background and greening proposals to improve the visual amenity and when the mitigation measures mature and taken effect, it is considered cumulative visual impacts on VSR1, VSR8, VSR13 and VSR 14 can be reduced to slight / moderate and cumulative residual impacts for other remaining VSRs can be reduced to slight or insignificant by year 10 of operation. It is anticipated that there will be no significant long term cumulative visual impact on the visual amenity of VSRs.

Tuen Mun – Chek Lap Kok Link (TM-CLKL)

9.10.6       TM-CLKL includes a 9km long dual two-lane carriageway between Tuen Mun and North Lantau.

9.10.7       In regards to the TM-CLKL EIA report, there will be some landscape impacts on LR-11 Roads & Urban Infrastructures with Amenity Planting.  Nonetheless the loss can be compensated by planting new heavy & light standard trees and further proposed soft landscape works for enhancement of greenery.  With implementation of recommended mitigation measures recommended in TM-CLKL EIA Report, any adverse cumulative landscape resources impacts on the operation phases could be reduced.

9.10.8       TM-CLKL will induce partial blockage of views and permanent loss of open seascape view. There will be moderate adverse residual visual impact on the travelling VSRs during the operation phase. The Project is located close to the proposed TM-CLKL is a relatively small and localized development which would not create significant additional impact on the travelling VSRs.   With mitigation measures in place during operation phase, the residual visual impacts would be reduced to slight level as the Project and TM-CLK Link would be compatible with the visual character of surrounding areas.

Tung Chung New Town Extension (TCNTE) – Tung Chung East (TCE) Development

9.10.9       The TCNTE TCE Development involves over 200 ha land, part of the development site is formed by reclamation, and total population of about 268,400 upon full extension. In regards to the Tung Chung New Town Extension EIA report, the TCNTE TCE Development would generate key impacts on LR3 coastal waters and LCA1 Inshore Water Landscape, since the Project will not involve any reclamation works, no cumulative landscape impacts will be anticipated.

9.10.10    The TCNTE TCE Development is located about 1.5km away from the Project. Therefore, potential visual impact would experience negligible to slight visual impact due to integration of the Tung Chung Town in view of their similarity in appearance and relatively building structures. Major mitigation measures have been set up for TCNTE TCE Development, for instance aesthetic engineering and architectural design together with optimum greening treatment, it would potentially minimise any major visual impacts.

9.10.11    The overall visual character in Tung Chung Town would be completely changed after the major due to the TCNTE TCE Development.  Given that TCNTE TCE Development is at a distant from the proposed SHO and Reprovisioned SHD, it is predicted that there would be slight to insubstantial residual cumulative visual impact with the implementation of proposed mitigation measures for the Project and the TCNTE TCE.

9.11           Conclusion

9.11.1       The Project will inevitably result in some landscape and visual impacts during construction and operation phases.  These impacts have been minimized through careful consideration of alternatives, compensatory planting, and incorporation of aesthetic external designs.

9.11.2       Cumulative landscape and visual during the construction and operation phases from other concurrent projects which include SHD Topside Development and TM-CLKL are assessed.  These concurrent projects would not cause any insurmountable cumulative landscape and visual impact. 

9.11.3       It is considered that the residual landscape and visual impact is acceptable with mitigation measures implemented during construction and operation phases.