9. Landscape and visual impact assessment. 150

9.1 Introduction. 150

9.2 Landscape and Visual Legislation, Standard and Guidelines. 150

9.3 Assessment Area. 150

9.4 Methodology for Assessment of Landscape and Visual Impacts. 151

9.5 Review of Relevant Guidelines on Landscape Strategies and Framework and Land Use Zoning. 156

9.6 Existing Trees within the Project Boundary. 157

9.7 Landscape Baseline Study. 159

9.8 Visual Baseline Study. 197

9.9 Potential Sources of Landscape and Visual Impact 207

9.10 Landscape Impact Assessment 207

9.11 Visual Impact Assessment 225

9.12 Visual Enhancement and Landscape Mitigation Measures. 244

9.13 Residual Landscape Impact 252

9.14 Residual Visual Impact 264

9.15 Cumulative Impact 276

9.16 Summary and Conclusion. 276

List of Figures

Figure 9.01	General site location plan
Figure 9.02	Aerial Photograph – Sung Shan New Village (2017)
Figure 9.03	Future Planning Context (OZP) – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.04	Landscape Resources Plan – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.05	Landscape Resources Photographs – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.06	Landscape Character Areas Plan – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.07	Landscape Character Areas Photographs – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.08	Location of Visually Sensitive Receivers and Visual Envelope – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.09	Existing VSR Views – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.10	Existing VSR Views – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.11	Existing VSR Views – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.12	Existing VSR Views – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.13	Preliminary Landscape Master Plan – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.14	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Plan – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.15	Not Used
Figure 9.16	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Sections – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.17	Residual Impact on Landscape Resources during Construction and Operation – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.18	Residual Impact on Landscape Character Areas during Construction and Operation – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.19	Residual Visual Impact during Construction and Operation – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.20	Vantage Points for Photomontages – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.21	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.22	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.23	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.24	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.25	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.26	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.27	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.28	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.29	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Sung Shan New Village
Figure 9.30	Aerial Photograph – Tai Wo (2017)
Figure 9.31	Future Planning Context (OZP) – Tai Wo
Figure 9.32	Landscape Resources Plan – Tai Wo
Figure 9.33	Landscape Resources Photographs – Tai Wo
Figure 9.34	Landscape Character Areas Plan – Tai Wo
Figure 9.35	Landscape Character Areas Photographs – Tai Wo
Figure 9.36	Location of Visually Sensitive Receivers and Visual Envelope – Tai Wo
Figure 9.37	Existing VSR Views – Tai Wo
Figure 9.38	Existing VSR Views – Tai Wo
Figure 9.39	Existing VSR Views – Tai Wo
Figure 9.40	Existing VSR Views – Tai Wo
Figure 9.41	Preliminary Landscape Master Plan – Tai Wo
Figure 9.42	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Plan – Tai Wo
Figure 9.43	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Sections – Tai Wo
Figure 9.44	Residual Impact on Landscape Resources during Construction and Operation – Tai Wo
Figure 9.45	Residual Impact on Landscape Character Areas during Construction and Operation – Tai Wo
Figure 9.46	Residual Visual Impact during Construction and Operation – Tai Wo
Figure 9.47	Vantage Points for Photomontages – Tai Wo
Figure 9.48	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Tai Wo
Figure 9.49	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Tai Wo
Figure 9.50	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Tai Wo
Figure 9.51	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Tai Wo
Figure 9.52	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Tai Wo
Figure 9.53	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Tai Wo
Figure 9.54	Aerial Photograph – Lin Fa Tei (2017)
Figure 9.55	Future Planning Context (OZP) – Lin Fa Tei (W)
Figure 9.56	Future Planning Context (OZP) – Lin Fa Tei (E)
Figure 9.57	Landscape Resources Plan – Lin Fa Tei (W)
Figure 9.58	Landscape Resources Plan – Lin Fa Tei (E)
Figure 9.59	Landscape Resources Photographs – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.60	Landscape Character Areas Plan – Lin Fa Tei (W)
Figure 9.61	Landscape Character Areas Plan – Lin Fa Tei (E)
Figure 9.62	Landscape Character Areas Photographs – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.63	Location of Visually Sensitive Receivers and Visual Envelope – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.64	Existing VSR Views – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.65	Existing VSR Views – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.66	Existing VSR Views – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.67	Existing VSR Views – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.68	Existing VSR Views – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.69	Preliminary Landscape Master Plan – Lin Fa Tei (W)
Figure 9.70	Preliminary Landscape Master Plan – Lin Fa Tei (E)
Figure 9.71	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Plan – Lin Fa Tei (W)
Figure 9.72	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Plan – Lin Fa Tei (E)
Figure 9.73	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Sections – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.74	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Sections – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.75	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Sections – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.76	Residual Impact on Landscape Resources during Construction and Operation – Lin Fa Tei (W)
Figure 9.77	Residual Impact on Landscape Resources during Construction and Operation – Lin Fa Tei (E)
Figure 9.78	Residual Impact on Landscape Character Areas during Construction and Operation – Lin Fa Tei (W)
Figure 9.79	Residual Impact on Landscape Character Areas during Construction and Operation – Lin Fa Tei (E)
Figure 9.80	Residual Visual Impact during Construction and Operation – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.81	Vantage Points for Photomontages – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.82	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.83	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.84	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.85	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.86	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.87	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.88	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.89	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.90	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Lin Fa Tei
Figure 9.91	Aerial Photograph – Ha Che (N) (2017)
Figure 9.92	Aerial Photograph – Ha Che (S) (2017)
Figure 9.93	Future Planning Context (OZP) – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.94	Future Planning Context (OZP) – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.95	Landscape Resources – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.96	Landscape Resources – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.97	Landscape Resources Photographs – Ha Che
Figure 9.98	Landscape Character Areas – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.99	Landscape Character Areas – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.100	Landscape Character Areas Photographs – Ha Che
Figure 9.101	Location of Visually Sensitive Receivers and Visual Envelope – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.102	Location of Visually Sensitive Receivers and Visual Envelope – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.103	Existing VSR Views – Ha Che
Figure 9.104	Existing VSR Views – Ha Che
Figure 9.105	Existing VSR Views – Ha Che
Figure 9.106	Existing VSR Views – Ha Che
Figure 9.107	Existing VSR Views – Ha Che
Figure 9.108	Preliminary Landscape Master Plan – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.109	Preliminary Landscape Master Plan – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.110	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Plan – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.111	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Plan – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.112	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Sections – Ha Che
Figure 9.113	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures – Sections – Ha Che
Figure 9.114	Not Used
Figure 9.115	Residual Impact on Landscape Resources during Construction and Operation – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.116	Residual Impact on Landscape Resources during Construction and Operation – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.117	Residual Impact on Landscape Character Areas during Construction and Operation – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.118	Residual Impact on Landscape Character Areas during Construction and Operation – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.119	Residual Visual Impact during Construction and Operation – Ha Che (N)
Figure 9.120	Residual Visual Impact during Construction and Operation – Ha Che (S)
Figure 9.121	Vantage Points for Photomontages – Ha Che
Figure 9.122	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.123	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.124	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.125	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.126	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.127	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.128	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.129	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che
Figure 9.130	Photomontage of Vantage Points – Ha Che

List of Appendices

Appendix 9-1

Updated Tree Schedule

9. Landscape and visual impact assessment

9.1 Introduction

9.1.1. This section addresses the potential landscape and visual impacts that may arise from the construction and operation of drainage improvement works for four villages (Sung Shan New Village, Tai Wo, Lin Fa Tei, Ha Che) areas in Yuen Long District. The potential impacts on the landscape and visual sensitive receivers within the landscape Study Area and zone of visual influence were assessed in accordance with the criteria and guidelines identified in Annexes 10 and 18 of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) and the requirements of the EIA Study Brief. Suitable mitigation measures are proposed to mitigate any potential adverse impacts to an environmentally acceptable level.

9.2 Landscape and Visual Legislation, Standard and Guidelines

9.2.1. The following legislation, standards and guidelines are applicable to the evaluation of the landscape and visual impacts associated with the construction and operation phases of the Project.

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

EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010: Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance;

Outline Zoning Plans: Tai Tong OZP S/YL-TT/17; Shek Kong OZP S/YL-SK/9; Pat Heung OZP S/YL-PH/11; Kam Tin South OZP S/YL-KTS/15;

WBTC No. 7/2002 - Tree Planting in Public Works;

WBTC No. 14/2002 - Management and Maintenance of Natural Vegetation and Landscape Works, and Tree Preservation

ETWB TCW No. 11/2004 on Cyber Manual for Greening;

DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020 - Tree Preservation;

DEVB TCW No. 5/2020 – Registration and Preservation of Old and Valuable Trees ;

DEVB TCW No. 6/2015 - Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features; and,

GEO No. 1/2011 - Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment for Slopes;

9.3 Assessment Area

9.3.1. The scope for defining the assessment area for Landscape Impact Assessment (LIA) is in accordance with the requirements of the EIA Study Brief and EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010. The Study Area for LIA covers all areas within 500m from the site boundary of the Project. This extent is illustrated in Figure 9.02, Figure 9.30, Figure 9.54, and Figures 9.91 to 9.92.

9.3.2. The assessment area for Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) is identified by the visual envelope of the Project as specified the EIA Study Brief. In accordance with EIAO GN No. 8/2010, the visual envelope (zone of visual influence) is generally the view shed formed by natural or manmade features such as vegetation, landform and/or built development. It contains areas which are fully, partially visible, glimpsed or unseen from this Project and its associated works. The Study Areas for VIA are illustrated in Figures 9.08, Figure 9.36, Figure 9.63 and Figures 9.101 to 9.102.

9.4 Methodology for Assessment of Landscape and Visual Impacts

Landscape and visual impacts have been assessed separately for the construction and operation phases, following the methodology set out in EIAO GN 8/2010 and as detailed below.

9.4.1. Baseline Survey and Assessment of Landscape Impacts

9.4.1.1 Identification of Key Landscape Resources (LRs) and Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) within the Assessment Area.

9.4.1.1.1 This involves a baseline survey of the existing landscape resources (LRs) and landscape character areas (LCAs) and comprises of a desk-top study of relevant background reports, topographical maps, information databases and photographs verified through comprehensive field study.

9.4.1.1.2 The LRs include physical landscape resources such as the physical topography, water bodies, open space and vegetation; and human landscape resources which include cultural heritage and historical features.

9.4.1.1.3 The LCAs represent broad tracts of landscape which have a consistent character based on a consideration of topography, vegetation types and land use patterns. The “Landscape Value Mapping Study in Hong Kong” will be reviewed to get an understanding of the landscape characters within the Study Area for LIA.

9.4.1.2 Assessment of the Sensitivity of the Landscape Resources (LRs) and Landscape Character Areas (LCAs)

9.4.1.2.1 Assessment of the degree of sensitivity of the individual LRs /LCAs 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 LR or LCA of particularly distinctive character or high importance, sensitive to relatively small changes.

Medium: LR or LCA of moderately valued landscape characteristics reasonably tolerant to change.

Low: LR or LCA, the nature of which is largely tolerant to change.

9.4.1.3 Landscape Impact Assessment

9.4.1.3.1 Identification of potential sources of landscape impacts: These are the various elements of the construction works and operational procedures that will generate landscape impacts.

9.4.1.3.2 Identification of the magnitude of change Identification of the magnitude of change: The magnitude of change depends on a number of factors including the physical extent of the impact, the landscape and visual context of the impact, the compatibility of the Project with the surrounding landscape; and the time-scale of the impact - i.e. whether it is temporary (short, medium or long term), permanent but potentially reversible, or permanent and irreversible. Landscape impacts have been quantified wherever possible.

9.4.1.3.3 The magnitude of landscape impacts is classified as follows:

Large: The LR or LCA would undergo a major change.

Intermediate: The LR or LCA would undergo a moderate changes.

Small: The LR or LCA would undergo slight or barely perceptible changes.

Negligible: The LR or LCA would undergo no discernible change.

9.4.1.4 Identification of Potential Landscape Mitigation Measures

9.4.1.4.1 Identification of potential landscape mitigation measures, and programme for implementation : These may take the form of adopting alternative designs or revisions to the basic engineering and architectural design to prevent and/or minimize negative impacts; remedial measures such as colour and textural treatment of building features; and compensatory measures such as the implementation of landscape design measures (e.g. tree planting, creation of new open space, etc.) to compensate for unavoidable negative impacts and to attempt to generate potentially positive long term impacts. A programme for the mitigation measures is provided. The agencies responsible for the funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the mitigation measures are identified in Tables 9.12.1 and 9.12.2 and the mitigation measures are illustrated in Figures 9.14 to 9.16; Figures 9.42 to 9.43; Figures 9.71 to Figure 9.75 and Figures 9.110 to 9.113.

9.4.1.5 Prediction of the Significance of Landscape Impacts before and after the implementation of the Mitigation Measures.

9.4.1.5.1 Through the consideration of the magnitude of the various impacts and the sensitivity of the various landscape resources it is possible to categorise impacts in a logical, well-reasoned and consistent fashion. Table 9.4.1 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. Impact significant is taken to be adverse unless stated otherwise as beneficial.

Table 9.4.1 Landscape Impact significance – Relationship between sensitivity and magnitude of change

Magnitude of Change	Sensitivity / Quality
	Low	Medium	High
Large	Moderate	Moderate/Substantial	Substantial
Intermediate	Slight/Moderate	Moderate	Moderate/Substantial
Small	Insubstantial/Slight	Slight	Moderate
Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial

9.4.1.5.2 The degree of Impact significant thresholds are defined 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.

9.4.1.5.3 Prediction of Acceptability of Landscape Impacts: Landscape impacts are products of magnitude of change and the relative sensitivity of the landscape sensitive receiver. Ultimately, the acceptability of the Project is dependent upon the significance of the residual impacts in accordance with the five criteria set out in Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM, namely ‘beneficial’, ‘acceptable’, ‘acceptable with mitigation measures’, ‘unacceptable’ and ‘undetermined’.

9.4.1.6 Examination of Alternative Design(s) and Construction Method(s)

9.4.1.6.1 Before adopting other mitigation measures to alleviate the impacts, alternative design(s) and construction method(s) that would avoid or reduce the impacts on landscape amenity, or that would make the Project more compatible with the setting, examination of alternative designs and construction methods will be examined.

9.4.1.7 Assessment of Cumulative Impacts

9.4.1.7.1 Cumulative impacts on landscape resources and landscape character areas will be identified and assessed.

9.4.1.7.2 The findings of the LIA are presented and supported by a range of illustrative materials such as aerial photograph, photographs and plans etc.

9.4.1.8 Baseline Survey and Assessment of Visual Impact

9.4.1.9 Identification of Visual Resources and Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

9.4.1.9.1 Visual resources and key visually sensitive receivers (VSRs) within the Visual Envelope which would be affected by the proposed works will be identified. Minimum viewing distance of each VSR is also determined.

9.4.1.10 Assessment of Sensitivity of Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

9.4.1.10.1 Visual sensitivity considers the impact on views to the subject site from potential VSRs. A number of factors affecting the sensitivity of VSRs for evaluation of visual impacts are as follows:

· Value and quality of existing views;

· Availability and amenity of alternative views;

· Type and estimated number of receiver population (many, medium and few);

· Duration (long, medium and short) and frequency of view (frequent, occasional and rare);

· Degree of visibility (no view, glimpse, partial view, vista, open view, and panoramic view);

· The sensitivity rating for the VSR are determined as follows:

High: The VSR is highly sensitive to any changes 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 changes in their viewing experience.

9.4.1.11 Identification of Potential Sources of Visual Impacts

9.4.1.11.1 Various elements located within the subject site that would generate visual impacts during construction and operation phases will be identified.

9.4.1.12 Assessment of Potential Magnitude of Visual Impacts

9.4.1.12.1 Visual impacts are determined by evaluating the conditions of the existing landscape and the visual character of the subject site and its surroundings, as well as the degree of integration of the proposed work’s components with the existing landscape. Other major factors affecting the magnitude of changes for assessing visual impacts are:

· Scale of development

· Compatibility of the proposed works with the surrounding landscape

· Reversibility of change

· Viewing distance

· Potential blocking of view

· Duration of visual impacts under construction and operation phases

9.4.1.12.2 The potential magnitude of change is classified into four categories:

Negligible: The VSRs are likely to suffer no discernible change in their viewing experience

Small: The VSRs are likely to suffer a slight change in their viewing experience

Intermediate: The VSRs are likely to suffer a moderate change in their viewing experience

Large: The VSRs are likely to suffer a significant change in their viewing experience

9.4.1.13 Determination of the Visual Impacts during Construction and Operation Phases before and after Implementation of Mitigation Measures

9.4.1.13.1 The significance of the visual impacts is categorised as follows:

Insubstantial: No discernible change to the existing visual quality

Slight: Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposed works would cause a barely perceptible deterioration/ improvement to existing visual quality

Moderate: Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposed works would cause a noticeable deterioration/ improvement to existing visual quality

Substantial: Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposed works would cause significant deterioration/ improvement to existing visual quality

9.4.1.13.2 The impact significance will be determined. Table 9.4.2 shows the relationship between sensitivity and magnitude of change.

Table 9.4.2 Visual Impact significance – Relationship between sensitivity and magnitude of change

Magnitude of Change	Sensitivity / Quality
	Low	Medium	High
Large	Moderate	Moderate/Substantial	Substantial
Intermediate	Slight/Moderate	Moderate	Moderate/Substantial
Small	Insubstantial/Slight	Slight	Moderate
Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial

9.4.1.13.3 The assessment of visual impacts will be presented in a matrix format considering the factors including location of VSRs, type and approximate number of VSRs, description of existing view and degree of visibility of the proposed works, receiver sensitivity, sources of visual impacts, minimum viewing distance of VSRs, magnitude of change, significance thresholds of potential visual impacts (before mitigation), mitigation measures, and significance thresholds of residual impacts (upon mitigation) during operation phase on Day 1 and in Year 10.

9.4.1.14 Recommendation of Mitigation Measures to Minimize Adverse Visual Impacts

9.4.1.14.1 Mitigation strategies will be developed to reduce the overall visual impacts derived from the proposed works during construction and operation phases.

9.4.1.15 Prediction of Acceptability of Impacts

9.4.1.15.1 An overall assessment of the acceptability, or otherwise, of the impacts is stated, according to the five criteria set out in Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM namely beneficial, acceptable, acceptable with mitigation measures, unacceptable and undetermined.

9.4.1.15.2 The findings of this VIA are presented and supported by a range of illustrative materials such as computer-generated photomontages, aerial photograph, photographs and plans etc. The proposed works within the Project sites with any mitigation measures are illustrated as the overall appearance of the proposed works.

9.5 Review of Relevant Guidelines on Landscape Strategies and Framework and Land Use Zoning

The following legislation, standards and guidelines are applicable to the evaluation of landscape and visual impacts associated with the construction and operation phases of the Project. Relevant planning documents have been reviewed to gain an insight to the planning intentions of the Study Area and its surroundings so as to assess whether the proposed works can fit into the setting of the Project and its surroundings as a whole.

9.5.1. Review of Greening Master Plan for Northwest New Territories (GMPNWNT)

9.5.1.1 The GMPNWNT carried out by Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) seeks for the implementation of Greening Master Plan for the urban areas in the districts in Northeast New Territories including Yuen Long, Tin Shui Wai and Tuen Mun and the major access roads in the Northwest New Territories.

9.5.1.2 The GMPNENT was implemented in late 2015 and completed in 2018. The proposed works of GMPNWNT mainly falls within the major urban areas in Northwest New Territories and some priority greening projects along roads such as Kam Tin Road however these have no interface issue with the proposed works.

9.5.2. Review of Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) Plan No. S/YL/23 Yuen Long, S/YL-PH/11 Pat Heung, S/YL-KTS/15, Kam Tin South, S/YL-SK/9 Shek Kong, S/YL-TT/17 Tai Tong and S/YL-TYSY/10 Tong Yan San Tsuen.

9.5.2.1 In order to have a better understanding of the envisaged future landscape and visual characters/ context of the Project sites, the land use zoning and planning intentions of the Project sites have been examined. The various land use zoning and planning intentions of the Study Areas for the four villages are shown in Figures 9.03, 9.31, 9.55 to 9.56 and 9.93 to 9.94.

9.5.2.2 At Sung Shan New Village the site is located within “Other Specified Uses (Rural Use)” and also covers “Village Type Development”, “Agriculture” and “Open Storage” zones according to statutory plan (Tai Tong OZP S/YL-TT/17). Within the study area the uplands to the north and south of the site are designated “Conservation Area”.

9.5.2.2.1 The Lin Fa Tei project site is located mainly within “Village Type Development” and also includes “Agriculture” and “Residential Group D” zones at the southern end of the scheme (Shek Kong OZP S/YL-SK/9). Within the study area the upland areas to the south-east are designated “Conservation Area”.

9.5.2.2.2 According to the statutory plan for Pat Heung OZP S/YL-PH/11, the upstream of the Ha Che site near A Kung Tin is located within a “Residential Group D” zoning whilst the midstream and downstream of the site is located within “Village Type Development”. Within the study area the upland areas to the east are designated “Conservation Area” whilst to the north west there is an area of “Green Belt” and “Conservation Area”.

9.5.2.2.3 At Tai Wo the site is wholly located within the land use zone, “Village Type Development”, according to Kam Tin South OZP S/YL-KTS/15. Within the study area surrounding the village areas there are areas zoned as “Agriculture” whilst the uplands to the south are designated “Conservation Area”.

9.5.2.2.4 A review of the existing land uses within the four study areas suggests that much of the proposed works will be located within areas of existing development, either within village, open storage or light industrial areas of land use. Additionally, where the zoning indicates agricultural use, in several locations the land is no longer being fully used for agriculture and is in a degraded condition. The areas designated Conservation Area correspond with upland areas generally supporting woodland on the lower slopes and more open shrub and grass areas at higher elevations.

9.5.2.3 The Planning Intention of “Conservation Area” is intended to protect and retain existing natural landscape, ecological or topographical features whilst the planning intention of “Green Belt” zone is primarily for defining the limits of urban and sub-urban development areas by natural features and to contain urban sprawl as well as to provide passive recreation outlets. The “Agriculture” zone is intended primarily to retain and safeguard agricultural purposes. It is also intended to retain fallow arable land with good potential for rehabilitation for cultivation and other agricultural purposes.

9.5.2.4 Within the lowland parts of the study areas the existing planning framework suggests a landscape of villages and development areas interspersed with farmland and green belts, however the reality is that development is more diffuse with extensive areas of agricultural land having become degraded through abandonment and establishment of other uses. In contrast the Conservation Areas on uplands and valley side slopes are relatively well defined and undeveloped, in accordance with the planning intentions of this zone.

9.5.2.5 The proposed scheme will only affect small areas of land zoned for agricultural uses and these are largely located at the periphery of areas already used for open storage or light industrial uses. In terms of the “Conservation Area” and “Green Belt” zoning it is considered that the use of screen planting will mitigate any potential visual impacts whilst there will be no direct physical loss of these zoning areas.

9.6 Existing Trees within the Project Boundary

9.6.1. Within the Project Site: Sung Shan New Village

9.6.1.1 The existing trees within the project site area are mainly clustered along the margins of the existing watercourse. These trees tend to be growing on the channel side slopes and adjoining areas on the crest of these slopes. In the survey area trees are found to be dominated by self-seeded trees and some planted trees which include common amenity and pioneer tree species.

9.6.1.2 The existing trees are generally reported to be in Fair to Poor condition. The trees located on both sides of the existing channel are generally congested and leaning out for space. A total of 91 nos. of existing trees have been identified within project site area of 17 species: Acacia auriculiformis, Psidium guajava, Ficus microcarpa, Macaranga tanarius, Leucaena leucocephala, Ficus hispida, Celtis sinensis, Clausena lansium, Erythrina speciosa, Dimocarpus longan, Litchi chinensis, Bauhinia purpurea, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Citrus maxima, Ceiba pentandra, Acacia confusa and Ficus benjamina.

9.6.1.3 There are no Old and Valuable Trees as listed in the LCSD’s Register of Old and Valuable Trees. There are no protected tree species as listed in Forestry Regulations (Cap. 96 subsidiary legislation of Laws of Hong Kong) and there are no rare or endangered flora species in the site. A seedling of Aquilaria sinensis was recorded at the riparian zone of the section of watercourse within the Work Limit Boundary. This species is considered to be Vulnerable by IUCN (2015) and China Red Data Book (Pang et al. 2011), and Near Threatened (AFCD 2003), and protected under Category II in China and Cap. 586 in Hong Kong.

9.6.2. Within the Project Site: Tai Wo

9.6.2.1 Most of the existing trees are found on level ground at the crest of the side slopes lining the existing natural water course. Many of these trees are large fruit trees and some large native tree species. Self-seeded trees are also found in some portions along the waterway which are generally congested and leaning out to compete for space.

9.6.2.2 The existing trees surveyed are generally in Fair to Poor condition. A total of 23 nos. of existing trees are found in the project site area of 8 species: Leucaena leucocephala, Litchi chinensis, Ficus hispida, Ficus microcarpa, Dimocarpus longan, Macaranga tanarius, Artocarpus heterophyllus and Morus alba.

9.6.2.3 There are no Old and Valuable Tree as listed in the LCSD’s Register of Old and Valuable Trees. There is no protected tree species as listed in Forestry Regulations (Cap. 96 subsidiary legislation of Laws of Hong Kong) and there is no rare or endangered flora species in the site.

9.6.3. Within the Project Site: Lin Fa Tei

9.6.3.1 Most of the trees identified within the project site were located along the soil slopes along the natural waterway and adjoining area at the top of channel side slopes and within adjacent village areas. The majority of these trees are self-seeded native tree species and weed trees which are found generally in a congested condition; leaning with unbalanced crowns. Most of the trees planted are common road side ornamental trees and some are large fruit trees and native trees commonly planted in village areas.

9.6.3.2 Generally, all trees are in fair to poor condition. A total of 58 nos. of existing trees are found in the project site area of 14 species: Celtis sinensis, Morus alba, Macaranga tanarius, Sapium sebiferum, Ligustrum sinense, Melia azedarach, Archontophoenix alexandrae, Dimocarpus longan, Ficus microcarpa, Ficus hispida, Bridelia tomentosa,Bischofia javanica, Clausena lansium and Aleurites moluccana.

9.6.3.3 There are no Old and Valuable Trees as listed in the LCSD’s Register of Old and Valuable Trees.

9.6.4. Within the Project Site: Ha Che

9.6.4.1 Trees lining the existing water course are dominated by self-seeded native tree species which are generally in congested condition; leaning with unbalanced crowns. Planted trees are common species typically planted in village area including fruit trees and some plantation planting associated with infrastructure embankment works.

9.6.4.2 Trees under survey are generally in Fair to Poor condition in most of the project site area. A total of 152 nos. of existing trees are identified of 24 species: Spathodea campanulata, Ficus hispida, Macaranga tanarius, Litchi chinensis, Psidium guajava, Melaleuca cajuputi, Celtis sinensis, Ficus subpisocarpa, Cleistocalyx nervosum, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Leucaena leucocephala, Cinnamomum camphora, Ficus tinctoria, Dimocarpus longan, Bauhinia variegata, Michelia alba, Ficus variegate, Bauhinia blakeana, Carica papaya, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Morus alba, Sterculia lanceolata, Citrus maxima and Eucalyptus urophylla.

9.6.4.3 There is no Old and Valuable Tree as listed in the LCSD’s Register of Old and Valuable Trees.

9.7 Landscape Baseline Study

9.7.1. Landscape Resource within the Project Boundary

9.7.1.1 Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary of the four sites and will potentially be affected by the Project. Since the project involve drainage works; primarily the upgrading of existing channels and streams courses, the main LR within the project boundary at all four locations are Water Courses. However the works may involve widening of existing channels whilst new channel alignments often deviate from the existing water courses and may affect existing landscape resources along the current edges of the drainage channels. The landscape resources within the project boundary at each location are noted below, whilst a full description of the individual landscape resources is provided under Section 9.7.2.

9.7.1.2 Landscape Resource within the Project Boundary - Sung Shan New Village

Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Sung Shan New Village and will potentially be affected by the Project. In addition to Water Course (SSNV-LR3), these LRs include Plantation (SSNV-LR7) and Urban / Residential Area (SSNV-LR9).

9.7.1.3 Landscape Resource within the Project Boundary – Tai Wo

Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Tai Wo and will potentially be affected by the Project. In addition to Water Course (TW-LR5), these LRs include Grassland (TW-LR7), Waste Ground (TW-LR12) and Urban / Residential Area (TW-LR13).

9.7.1.4 Landscape Resources within the Project Boundary – Lin Fa Tei

Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Lin Fa Tei and will potentially be affected by the Project. In addition to Water Course (LFT-LR4), these LRs include Secondary Woodland (LFT-LR8), Plantation (LFT-LR10), Waste Ground (LFT-LR11) and Urban / Residential Area (LFT-LR12).

9.7.1.5 Landscape Resource within the Project Boundary – Ha Che

Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Ha Che and will potentially be affected by the Project. In addition to Water Course (HC-LR3), these LRs include Plantation (HC-LR9) and Urban / Residential Area (HC-LR11).

9.7.2. The Landscape Resources within the Study Area

9.7.2.1 Landscape Resource within the Study Area - Sung Shan New Village

LRs are the physical components of the landscape and include the existing geology, topography and vegetation. Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Sung Shan New Village and will potentially be affected by the Project. LRs within the vicinity of the Project location are described in broad terms below and Figure 9.04 maps the LRs within Study Area for LIA, and Figure 9.05 provides photographs of the LRs. Each LR is described in terms of its sensitivity to development.

9.7.2.1.1 SSNV-LR1 Agricultural Land

The relatively small area of LR, is approximately 1.4 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 100 nos. of trees within the Study Area and tend to form domestic scale plots on the edges of the urban area.

Whilst much of the original cultivated field patterns of the valley area have either been abandoned or made way for other land uses, the small area of remnant agricultural land in the Study Area is actively cultivated. The main concentrations of cultivated area are to the South of the Study Area (to the south east of Sung Shan New Village and at Nam Hang Tsuen) while other agricultural land in the southern parts of the valley are small and fragmented. The areas identified as agricultural land are mainly active and dominated by dryland crops. Agricultural activity includes typical crop / vegetable species Lycium chinense, Lycopersicon esculentum and Saccharum officinarum forming part of this LR whilst other herbaceous species including Alocasia macrorrhizos and Musa x paradisiac. Fruit trees (e.g. Artocarpus heterophyllus and Dimocarpus longan) are also observed.

Despite forming a relatively small part of the Study Area, this LR contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity; and so it is sensitivity is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.1.2 SSNV-LR2 Pond

The Study Area contains a small cluster of 3 ponds comprising 0.3 ha of Study area and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 50 nos. of trees.

The ponds are located outside the Project site in the southern central part of the Study area. These ponds are largely associated with agricultural land, although there is no evidence of fish farming activities. The ponds are rather overgrown with vegetation and as such do not form obvious water elements within in the landscape. They are overgrown with grasses and herbs such as Bidens alba and Panicum dichotomiflorum, which are tangled with climbers Mikania micrantha. Trees around the margins of the ponds include Celtis sinensis, Dimocarpus longan, Ficus hispida and Psidium guajava.

Generally this LR is considered to have a fair condition. Given that these ponds represent a fragment of the original agricultural landscape their sensitivity is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.1.3 SSNV-LR3 Water Course

The Study Area contains some 2.3 ha of naturalistic / agriculturally modified watercourses and approximately 1.1 ha of fully channelized water courses and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 800 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Flowing through lowland agricultural lands, villages and industrial areas and wooded areas these watercourses have undergone some level of bank modification and channelization and yet in many places retain natural features including stream bed and riparian vegetation. Despite their small size, the natural and semi-natural watercourses contribute to the perception of landscape character and quality. The main tree species associated with these features include self-sown trees Ficus subpisocarpa, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Mangifera indica as well as planted Common Banana Musa x paradisiaca where the streams pass through agricultural and urban fringe areas. The dominant species in their riparian zones include common herbs Alocasia macrorrhizos, Bidens alba, Commelina diffusa, Eclipta prostrata, Ludwigia perennis.

The upland hillsides to the north of the study area also contain seasonal watercourses. The slopes have been weathered to form gullies which feed into larger, permanent watercourses or drainage channels after rain.

In addition, two entirely channelized watercourses are located to the north east of the study area around Yau Cha Po. Their engineered form and the use of concrete for their construction has prevented significant colonisation by plants, although grassy vegetation is established along parts of the riparian zone where the channels have been unmanaged.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. Despite their small size, watercourses are important components of the overall landscape and so their sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.1.4 SSNV-LR4 Grassland

This LR covers an area of approximately 34.10 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 200 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Upland grassland is the most extensive vegetative LR within the Study Area and is important is establishing the character of the landscape due to its elevated, upland location. Grassland is located on the hillside areas at the northern and southern fringes of the Study Area. Whilst there is high vegetation species diversity recorded overall, the LR is formed by and highly susceptible to regular fires and the main species are largely fire-resistant and/or fast-regenerated. These species include herbs Bidens alba, the creeping fern Dicranopteris pedata and Lygodium japonicum, and grass Chloris barbata, Eleusine indica and Imperata cylindrica var. major. Despite occasional scattered shrubs and isolated small trees, this habitat is generally open and simple in structure with Woody vegetation including shrubs Breynia fruticosa, Bridelia tomentosa and Clerodendrum fortunatum, and trees Ficus hispida, Litsea glutinosa and Melia azedarach.

This LR forms an important part of the overall landscape which contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity; and so the sensitivity of this upland and lowland LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.1.5 SSNV-LR5 Grassland / Shrubland

This LR covers an area of approximately 6.00 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 400 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

The grassland / shrubland form clustered belts of bushy vegetation within the lower and mid-slope areas of the uplands to the north and southern fringes of the study area. The dominant vegetation species recorded include herbs Bidens alba, and grass Chloris barbata and Panicum maximum, with shrubby species including Glochidion eriocarpum, Lantana camara, Melastoma malabathricum and the small tree species Rhus chinensis, Rhus succedanea and Schefflera heptaphylla. While the shrubs shade out the growth of grass, this LR is less susceptible to damage caused by fires and allow the potential for future succession to shrubland.

This LR forms a part of the overall landscape which contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity; and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.1.6 SSNV-LR6 Secondary Woodland

This LR covers an area of approximately 3.9 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 2,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

The Study Area contains two areas of Secondary Woodland; one area located around a knoll at the western side of Sung Shan New Village and another area on the opposite side of the valley to the south of the Work Limit Boundary. The species found in these areas are common to secondary woodland including native small tree and tree species, such as Aporusa dioica, Bridelia tomentosa, Celtis sinensis, Litsea glutinosa, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Mallotus paniculatus.The understorey of the secondary woodland is dominated by shrub species such as herbs Alocasia macrorrhizos and Bidens alba, fern Cyclosorus parasiticus and climber Tetracera asiatica.

A young tree of Aquilaria sinensis, is located within this LR (shown on Figure 9.04). This species is common in lowland woodland, but is locally protected under Cap. 586. It is also listed as "Vulnerable" in China Plant Red Data Book, and under State protection (Category II) in China (AFCD, 2003). In the IUCN Red List (2015), it is classified as "Vulnerable”.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. It forms an important part of the overall landscape context and so its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.1.7 SSNV-LR7 Plantation

This LR covers an area of approximately 14.2 ha within the Study Area and together with the local topography and areas of secondary woodland is influential in forming the landscape character and amenity of the local area. It is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 6,000 nos. of trees within the study area.

Plantation is located along the central portion of the watercourse within the Work Limit Boundary, with mature Ficus benjamina associated with the riverside boundary of a private property. The other major concentration of plantation woodland is along the valley edges, between the urban area and the uplands whilst smaller areas are also located in proximity to the water courses at Nam Hang Tsuen. Tree species include planted exotic plantation species Acacia confusa and Ficus benjamina, and self-sown native species such as Mallotus paniculatus, Psychotria asiatica, Schefflera heptaphylla, Zanthoxylum avicennae with understory made up of Alocasia macrorrhizos, shrub Lantana camara and Ligustrum sinense.

An undersize sapling of Aquilaria sinensis, is located within this LR (shown on Figure 9.04). This species is common in lowland woodland, but is locally protected under Cap. 586. It is also listed as "Vulnerable" in China Plant Red Data Book, and under State protection (Category II) in China (AFCD, 2003). In the IUCN Red List (2015), it is classified as "Vulnerable”.

Due to the relative maturity and importance to the overall landscape character and amenity the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be high.

9.7.2.1.8 SSNV-LR8 Waste Ground

This LR covers an area of approximately 10.9 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Two main clusters of waste ground are located within the southern part of the Study Area, whilst smaller pockets are located within other areas of the urban fringe. These areas tend to be associated with urban areas used for light industrial activities on the margins of village areas. This waste ground was dominated by invasion of weedy herbaceous species common on abandoned lands including herbs Ageratum conyzoides, Bidens alba, Chenopodium ficifolium and Wedelia trilobata, grass Chloris barbata, Panicum maximum, Pennisetum purpureum, herbaceous climbers Ipomoea cairica and Mikania micrantha and shrub Lantana camara and tree Leucaena leucocephala.

Due to the disturbed nature of the landscape the amenity value of this LR is low. The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

9.7.2.1.9 SSNV-LR9 Urban / Residential Area

The Study Area contains approximately 63.6 ha of developed land largely located on lowland areas to the north west and valley floor areas through the central and eastern portions of the Study areas. These areas comprise of a combination of roads, villages, residential areas, light industrial and open storage facilities. It is also estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,500 nos. of trees within the study area.

This LR is a mix of development types including some open and disturbed areas within and between land lots and building compounds. The majority of plant species are common to Hong Kong with naturally colonized species within the fragmentary landscape between land uses and a number of amenity species within developed areas including small agricultural lands and small areas of plantation (mainly fruit tree species) around the village houses, open storage areas, road-side planting stripes and roads. Vegetation includes ornamental trees and shrubs associated with gardens and amenity areas. There are also fruit trees such as Artocarpus heterophyllus, Dimocarpus longan and Litchi chinensis. Common Herb species include Ageratum conyzoides, Bidens alba and Wedelia trilobata, and grass Imperata cylindrical var. major. Other more ornamental plant types include Shrubs Bougainvillea spectabilis, Calliandra haematocephala, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Lantana camara.

A seedling of Aquilaria sinensis, probably a planted specimen, was recorded at the village area within the Study Area (shown on Figure 9.04). This species is locally protected under Cap. 586 in Hong Kong. An exotic species, Lagerstroemia indica, is protected under Cap. 96, whilst an exotic tree species Podocarpus macrophyllus var. maki, which is listed as Near Threatened on IUCN Red List, was also recorded in this LR. However, these species have been widely planted in China and Southeast Asia as an ornamental plant. The woody climber Gnetum luofuense was also recorded in the urbanised area at the edge of the secondary woodland. This species are listed as Near Threatened by IUCN (2015), but considered to be Very Common and Common in Xing et al. (2000) and AFCD (2007) respectively.

Given the wide ranging land uses that form this LR the condition ranges from fair to poor and its sensitivity is considered to be low.

9.7.2.1.10 The sensitivity of all identified LRs within the site area of Sung Shan Village are summarized in Table 9.7.1.

Table 9.7.1 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Resources – Sung Shan New Village

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
SSNV-LR1	Agricultural Land	Low	Medium	Low	Young	Medium	Low	Medium
SSNV-LR2	Pond	Medium	High	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
SSNV-LR3	Water Course	High	Medium	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
SSNV-LR4	Grassland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
SSNV-LR5	Grassland / Shrubland	Medium	Medium	Medium	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
SSNV-LR6	Secondary Woodland	High	High	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
SSNV-LR7	Plantation	Medium	Medium	Low	Mature	High	Low	High
SSNV-LR8	Waste Ground	Low	Low	Medium	Young	Low	Low	Low
SSNV-LR9	Urban / Residential Area	Low	Low	High	N/A	N/A	N/A	Low

9.7.2.2 Landscape Resource within the Study Area – Tai Wo

LRs are the physical components of the landscape and include the existing geology, topography and vegetation. Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Tai Wo and will potentially be affected by the Project. LRs within the vicinity of the Project location are described in broad terms below and Figure 9.32 maps the LRs within Study Area for LIA, and Figure 9.33 provides photographs of the LRs. Each LR is described in terms of its sensitivity to development.

9.7.2.2.1 TW-LR1 Agricultural Land

The relatively large area of this LR, approximately 26 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 500 nos. of trees within the Study Area, tend to form relatively contiguous areas within the urban area to the north.

These areas of flat, agricultural land appear to be actively cultivated and well maintained. Agricultural activity includes typical crop and vegetable production included Allium fistulosum, Beta vulgaris var. rapacea, Brassica chinensis, Brassica juncea, Brassica oleracea var. albiflora, Brassica oleracea var. capitata, Brassica oleracea var. italic and Gladiolus x gandavensis. Other species were also recorded, such as herbs Bidens alba, Eclipta prostrata, and Polygonum spp., and grass Eleusine indica. Fruit trees Averrhoa carambola, Carica papaya, Citrus maxima, Citrus reticulata, Dimocarpus longan and Eriobotrya japonica are also commonly planted within in these agricultural lands.

This LR contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity and its sensitivity is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.2.2 TW-LR2 Pond

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.1 ha within the Study Area.

The pond is located outside the project site but within the Tai Wo residential area. The pond is rather overgrown with vegetation around the margins and some open water areas supporting floating vegetation such as Ipomoea aquatica. Vegetation species recorded in the area surrounding the pond includes herbs Alocasia macrorrhizos and Bidens alba, and grass Microstegium ciliatum.

Generally this LR is considered to have a fair condition. Given that this pond is a landscape feature contributing to the rural setting of the village, its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.2.3 TW-LR3 Marsh

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.5 ha within the Study Area.

The marsh is located near the central portion of the study area just to the South of Tai Wo Village. The marsh is located at the head of a broad lowland valley which is dissected by stream courses. Constructed elements such bunds and stone weirs indicate that the marsh has in the past been a managed feature as part of the rural landscape. The marsh vegetation is dominated by typical herbaceous species Alocasia macrorrhizos, Chenopodium ficifolium, Hedychium coronarium and Polygonum chinense, fern Cyclosorus interruptus and grass Microstegium ciliatum.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. It forms an important element of the overall valley landscape context and so its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.2.4 TW-LR4 Mitigation Wetland

The Study Area contains some 0.6 ha of Mitigation Wetland associated with the West Rail Line and located to the South West of the Study Area.

The wetlands are associated with belts of tree and shrub buffer / screen planting lining the edge of the West Rail Corridor which include species such as Bridelia tomentosa, Gardenia jasminoides, Ilex rotunda, Rhaphiolepis indica, Rhododendron pulchrum and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa. Within the wetland areas wetland plant species include herbs Commelina diffusa, Phragmites australis, Polygonum barbatum and Polygonum chinense. Other herb species Bidens alba, and grass Leersia hexandra and Microstegium ciliatum are also present around the edges of the wetland areas.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. and its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.2.5 TW-LR5 Water Course

The Study Area contains some 1 ha of naturalistic / agriculturally modified watercourses and approximately 1.7 ha of fully channelized water courses. It is also estimated that within this LR there are approximately 500 nos. of trees within the study area.

In the central and southern areas of the study area, these water courses are streams flowing through lowland grassland, village edges and wooded areas with few man made interventions to the natural stream profiles. To the north and South east of the study area, these watercourses have undergone more significant levels of bank modification and channelization and yet in many places retain natural features including stream bed and riparian vegetation. Despite their small size, the natural and semi-natural watercourses contribute to the perception of landscape character and quality. The main tree species associated with these features include and trees Artocarpus heterophyllus, Clausena lansium, Cleistocalyx nervosum and Melia azedarach. The dominant species in their riparian zones Riparian zone mainly consist of herbs Commelina diffusa, Polygonum plebeium, Rorippa indica, Spilanthes paniculata and Youngia japonica.

The upland hillsides to the south of the study area also contain seasonal watercourses. The slopes have been weathered to form gullies which feed into larger, permanent watercourses winding across the broad valley floor.

In addition, two entirely channelized watercourses are located to the east of the study area between the West Rail Line and Kam Ho Road. Their engineered form and the use of concrete for their construction has prevented significant colonisation by plants, although grassy vegetation is established along parts of the riparian zone where the channels have been unmanaged.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. Despite their small size, watercourses are important components of the overall landscape and so their sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.2.6 TW-LR6 Seasonally Wet Grassland

This LR covers an area of approximately 1.4 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 100 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

This LR also includes areas of seasonally wet grassland in lowland areas formed from abandoned agricultural fields. These two areas are located at Cheung Po and Tai Wo, near the central part of the Study Area. Following the abandonment of these areas they have become prone to flooding in the wet season. The grassland generally dominated by herbaceous plants such as Alocasia macrorrhizos, Commelina diffusa, Hedychium coronarium and Polygonum chinense, and fern Cyclosorus interruptus. Other species found around the edges of the wetland include grass Melinis repens and Microstegium ciliatum, shrub Lantana camara and some small trees such as Morus alba.

This LR forms a part of the overall landscape near to village environments and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.2.7 TW-LR7 Grassland

This LR covers an area of approximately 18.80 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 500 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Grassland is the most extensive vegetative LR within the Study Area and is important is establishing the character of the landscape due to it forming a large contiguous area across the valley floor and lower slopes of the uplands to the south of the Study Area. Whilst there is high vegetation species diversity recorded overall, the LR is formed by dominant grass species including Chloris barbata, Imperata cylindrica var. major, Miscanthus floridulus and Neyraudia reynaudiana. Other vegetation includes herb Bidens alba, climber Mikania micrantha and Pueraria lobata, shrub species Baeckea frutescens, and ocassional tree Bombax ceiba and Litsea monopetala.

This LR forms an important part of the overall landscape which contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity and due to its open and extensive coverage, the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be high.

9.7.2.2.8 TW-LR8 Grassland / Shrubland

This LR covers an area of approximately 12.8 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

The grassland / shrubland form clustered belts of bushy vegetation within the eges of the valey floor and lower slope areas of the uplands to the southern fringes of the study area. The dominant vegetation species recorded include herb Ageratum conyzoides, and Youngia japonica, grass Microstegium ciliatum, shrubs and trees such as Ficus hispida, Lantana camara, Mallotus paniculatus, Schefflera heptaphylla and Trema tomentosa.

This LR forms a part of the overall landscape which contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity; and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.2.9 TW-LR9 Secondary Woodland

This LR covers an area of approximately 16.7 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 10,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

The Study Area contains areas of Secondary Woodland associated with the upland area to the south and east of the study area. The secondary woodland on the southern fringe continues with the woodland falling within Tai Lam Country Park, and hence the wooded areas along the ridgelines of the southern edge of the Study Area receive less human disturbance than those located close to the village environ. The woodland areas adjacent to the village has been shaped by human activity to some extent although the LR is still dominated by native tree species. These include Aporusa dioica, Celtis sinensis, Cinnamomum camphora, Melia azedarach, Sterculia lanceolata and Zanthoxylum avicennae with the record at the understorey of shrub or small tree species Bridelia tomentosa, Claoxylon indicum, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia and Psychotria asiatica.

A mature tree Aquilaria sinensis was recorded in the secondary woodland LR to the east of Tai Wo within the Study Area (shown on Figure 9.32). This species is common in lowland woodland, but is locally protected under Cap. 586. It is also listed as "Vulnerable" in China Plant Red Data Book, and under State protection (Category II) in China (AFCD, 2003). In the IUCN Red List (2015), it is classified as "Vulnerable”.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. It forms an important part of the overall landscape context and so its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.2.10 TW-LR10 Orchard

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.6 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 200 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

A small area of orchard is located to the south of Cheung Po Village. The planted fruit trees include Dimocarpus longan, Clausena lansium and Litchi chinensis. Vegetation developed in the understorey of these planted fruit trees is limited due to active management practice. Some herbaceous plants, such as Phyllanthus urinaria, Bidens alba and Youngia japonica, and seedlings of shrub or tree species (such as Celtis sinensis, Ficus hispida and Litsea cubeba) are also found within this LR.

This LR forms a small part of the overall landscape but contributes to the perception of landscape character of the village area and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.2.11 TW-LR11 Plantation

This LR covers an area of approximately 3.7 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,500 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Plantation is located along the Margins of the West Rail corridor and forms clusters at village margins with the agricultural land of the Study area. Tree species a mix of exotic and native species including Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Ligustrum sinense, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Sapium discolor. Other vegetation species recorded include herb Wedelia trilobata, climber Ipomoea cairica, Ipomoea triloba and Stephania longa.

Due to the relative importance to the overall landscape structure and amenity, the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be high.

9.7.2.2.12 TW-LR12 Waste Ground

This LR covers an area of approximately 6.1 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 200 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Areas of waste ground are found across the arts of the central and eastern portions of the Study Area and generally comprise small pockets of abandoned or disturbed land within the urban fringe. These areas tend to be associated with the margins of village areas and areas used for light industrial activities. This waste ground is dominated by herbaceous species, such as herb Bidens alba, Oxalis debilis subsp. corymbosa, Solanum americanum and Youngia japonica, climbers Mikania micrantha and Pueraria lobata, shrub Lantana camara, and tree Leucaena leucocephala.

Due to the disturbed nature of the landscape, the amenity value of this LR is low. The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

9.7.2.2.13 TW-LR13 Urban / Residential Area

The Study Area contains approximately 37.7 ha of developed land largely located on lowland areas to the north and central portions of the Study areas. These areas comprise a combination of roads, relatively compact villages including Tai Wo and Cheung Po and more disparate residential areas interspersed within the landscape. There is also a relatively small proportion of light industrial facilities within this LR. It is also estimated that within this LR there are approximately 500 nos. of trees within the study area.

This LR incorporates some open and disturbed areas within and between land lots and building compounds where vegetation is found. The majority of plant species are common to Hong Kong with naturally colonized species within the fragmentary landscape between land uses and a number of amenity species within developed areas including areas of fruit tree species around the village houses. Fruit trees include Artocarpus heterophyllus, Dimocarpus longan and Litchi chinensis. Common herb species include Bidens alba, Conyza sumatrensis and Emilia sonchifolia, grass Chloris barbata, climber Mikania mircantha, shrub Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.

Given the wide ranging land uses that form this LR, the condition ranges from fair to poor and its sensitivity is considered to be low.

9.7.2.2.14 The sensitivity of all identified LRs within the site area of Tai Wo are summarized in Table 9.7.2.

Table 9.7.2 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Resources – Tai Wo

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
LFT-LR1	Agricultural Land	Medium	Low	Medium	Young	Low	Low	Medium
LFT-LR2	Pond	Medium	High	Low	Semi-mature	High	High	High
LFT-LR3	Marsh	High	High	Low	Semi-mature	High	High	High
LFT-LR4	Mitigation Wetland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Medium	High
LFT-LR5	Water Course	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Medium	High
LFT-LR6	Seasonally Wet Grassland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR7	Grassland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Medium	High
LFT-LR8	Grassland / Shrubland	Medium	Medium	Medium	Semi-mature	Medium	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR9	Secondary Woodland	High	High	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
LFT-LR10	Orchard	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR11	Plantation	Medium	Medium	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
LFT-LR12	Waste Ground	Low	Low	Medium	Young	Low	Low	Low
LFT-LR13	Urban / Residential Area	Low	Low	High	N/A	N/A	N/A	Low

9.7.2.3 Landscape Resources within the Study Area – Lin Fa Tei

LRs are the physical components of the landscape and include the existing geology, topography and vegetation. Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Lin Fa Tei and will potentially be affected by the Project. LRs within the vicinity of the Project location are described in broad terms below and Figures 9.57 and 9.58 maps the LRs within Study Area for LIA. Figure 9.59 provides photographs of the LRs. Each LR is described in terms of its sensitivity to development.

9.7.2.3.1 LFT-LR1 Agricultural Land

This LR covers an area of approximately 20.3 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 500 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Agricultural lands are mainly located at the northern and eastern parts of the Study Area, between Kam Sheung Road and Kam Shui Road and form the dominant land use within these areas, although the land use pattern is mixed with surrounding urban and plantation LR’s. Agricultural crops and vegetation include species such as Brassica chinensis, Lactuca sativa var. longifolia, Raphanus sativus and Zingiber officinale; other species recorded includes fruit tree species Carica papaya, Citrus reticulata and Litchi chinensis.

This LR contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity and it’s sensitivity is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.3.2 LFT-LR2 Pond

This LR covers an area of approximately 1.3 ha within the Study Area.

Some larger ponds are found at the northern part of the study area whilst there are also some constructed village ponds in the central areas of the Study Area. This include ponds such as the fung shui pond at the village Lin Fa Tei, which have cultural significance and form a urban landscape feature. This latter type of pond tend to be of hard construction and supports floating plants such as Nelumbo nucifera and Nymphaea spp for decorative effect.

Generally this LR is considered to have a fair condition. Given that village ponds are a landscape feature contributing to the setting of villages its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.3.3 LFT-LR3 Marsh

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.5 ha within the Study Area.

The marsh is located to the south of the study area where the village environment transitions to a more natural environment. The marsh is located near Ma Pau Ling in proximity to the upper parts of the water course forming part of this study. It has developed from abandoned agricultural land with a small ditch flowing through. The supported marsh vegetation includes typical wetland-associated floral species such as Alocasia macrorrhizos, Aster subulatus, Colocasia esculenta, Commelina diffusa, Cyclosorus interruptus, Hedychium coronarium and Polygonum chinense.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. It forms a unique element within the overall landscape context and so its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.3.4 LFT-LR4 Water Course

The Study Area contains some 2.5 ha of naturalistic / agriculturally modified watercourses and approximately 1.0 ha of fully channelized water courses. It is also estimated that within this LR there are approximately 400 nos. of trees within the study area.

In the central and southern areas of the Study Area these water courses are relatively streams following a meandering course through woodland, villages edges and residential areas, with some engineered elements including vertical walls and weir structures at the urban areas. To the north and west of the Study Area these watercourses have undergone more significant levels of bank modification and channelization to smooth, engineered channel profiles but retain some natural features including stream bed and riparian vegetation. Despite their small size, the natural and semi-natural watercourses contribute to the perception of landscape character and quality. The dominant species in the Riparian zone mainly consists of herbs Alocasia macrorrhizos, Alternanthera sessilis, Bidens alba, Commelina diffusa and Eclipta prostrata, and grass Brachiaria mutica and Microstegium ciliatum.

A seedling and a young tree of Aquilaria sinensis, is located within this LR (shown on Figures 9.57 and 9.58). This species is common in lowland woodland, but is locally protected under Cap. 586. It is also listed as "Vulnerable" in China Plant Red Data Book, and under State protection (Category II) in China (AFCD, 2003). In the IUCN Red List (2015), it is classified as "Vulnerable”.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. Despite their small size watercourses are important components of the overall landscape and so their sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.3.5 LFT-LR5 Seasonally Wet Grassland

This LR covers a small area of approximately 0.3 ha within the Study Area.

This LR of seasonally wet grassland has been formed from abandoned agricultural fields near Shui Lau Tin. Following the abandonment of this areas, it has become prone to flooding in the wet season. This small area of grassland has limited species diversity including herbs such as Colocasia esculenta, Polygonum chinense and fern Cyclosorus interruptus as well as common herbs Ageratum conyzoides and Bidens alba, and grass Brachiaria mutica.

This LR forms a part of the overall disturbed and abandoned landscape near to the urban environment and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.3.6 LFT-LR6 Grassland

This LR covers an area of approximately 6.3 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 100 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Discrete pockets of Grassland LR are located at several locations within the Study Area including lowland and hillside areas. Dominant species recorded in lowland grasslands includes herbs Ageratum conyzoides and Bidens alba, grass Eleusine indica and Neyraudia reynaudiana, climber Mikania micrantha, shrub Lantana camara and Flueggea virosa. Isolated trees are also recorded, such as, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Mallotus paniculatus and Melia azedarach. Hillside grassland is more dominated by fern Dicranopteris pedata, grass Melinis repens, Microstegium ciliatum and Miscanthus sinensis, and other herbs Bidens alba. A few isolated shrub Lantana camara, small tree Bridelia tomentosa, and trees Casuarina equisetifolia and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa are also found with this LR.

This LR forms a peripheral part of the overall landscape of the study area and the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.3.7 LFT-LR7 Grassland / Shrubland

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.59 ha within the Study Area.

The grassland / shrubland form a pocket of bushy vegetation within the margins of the of the secondary woodland on the upland lower slope areas at the south eastern fringes of the study area. This LR forms a part of the overall landscape which contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity; and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.3.8 LFT-LR8 Secondary Woodland

This LR covers an area of approximately 6.8 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 3,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Secondary woodlands are located in association with uplands to the south east of the Study Area and the upper reaches of the stream course emerging from this upland landscape and penetrating the urban area. The woodland consisted of a mixture of native and exotic tree species including exotic tree Acacia confusa, fruit trees Dimocarpus longan and Litchi chinensis, and native trees Celtis sinensis, Cinnamomum camphora, Litsea glutinosa, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Schefflera heptaphylla. The secondary woodlands located in the hillside area exhibits a more continuous and close canopy structure, and their canopies are somewhat merged with the adjacent hillside plantation. The secondary woodlands within the village environ often consists of a mixture of mature native tree species and the older fruit tree species. Understorey of the secondary woodlands within the village environ comprises herbs such as Alocasia macrorrhizos, grass Lophatherum gracile, climbing shrub Zanthoxylum nitidum, and shrub/small trees Ficus hispida, Ligustrum sinense and Trema tomentosa.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. It forms an important part of the naturalistic river corridor landscape outside the urban area and so its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.3.9 LFT-LR9 Orchard

This LR covers an area of approximately 4.0 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Two small areas of orchard are located between Ma Pau Ling and Po Lo Shan. The planted fruit trees include fruit tree species Artocarpus heterophyllus, Citrus maxima, Dimocarpus longan, Litchi chinensis and Mangifera indica, and planted Common Banana Musa x paradisiaca, with herbaceous species also recorded, such as, Bidens alba, Conyza sumatrensis and Oxalis corniculata.

This LR forms a small part of the overall landscape and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.3.10 LFT-LR10 Plantation

This LR covers an area of approximately 19.6 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 6,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Plantation is located along the engineered / channelized watercourses of the Study Area and at lower slope areas of the south eastern uplands, as well as forming other clusters within the agricultural village landscape. Vegetation consists of a mixture of native and exotic species. Tree species recorded include exotic Bauhinia variegata, Casuarina equisetifolia, Eucalyptus citriodora, Leucaena leucocephala and Melia azedarach, and exotic fruit tree Dimocarpus longan within village environs. Other self-sown native trees, including Celtis sinensis, Cinnamomum camphora, Eucalyptus citriodora, Ficus hispida and Hibiscus tiliaceus comprise this LR. The woodland understorey species include Amaranthus viridis, Bidens alba and Syngonium auritum. Ornamental shrub species planted along the roadside areas also form part of this LR and include exotic Calliandra haematocephala, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Ixora chinensis and Ligustrum sinense.

The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.3.11 LFT- LR11 Waste Ground

This LR covers an area of approximately 47.50 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 800 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Extensive areas of waste ground are found across the north west and south east parts of the Study Area and generally comprise abandoned or disturbed land at the edges of village environs. These abandoned lands were dominated by herbaceous species, including herbs Alternanthera sessilis, Bidens alba, Conyza sumatrensis, Crassocephalum crepidioides and Mimosa pudica, grass Bothriochloa bladhii, Chloris barbata, Cynodon dactylon and Eleusine indica, shrub Solanum torvum and Urena lobata, trees Ficus hispida, Flueggea virosa and Leucaena leucocephala.

Due to the disturbed nature of the landscape the amenity value of this LR is low. The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

9.7.2.3.12 LFT-LR12 Urban / Residential Area

The Study Area contains approximately 69.9 ha of developed land largely located on lowland areas extending across central portions of the Study Area. These areas comprise a combination of roads, relatively compact villages and residential areas. It is also estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,000 nos. of trees within the study area.

This LR incorporates some garden areas and land lots within building compounds where vegetation and cultivated areas are found. Fruit trees include Artocarpus heterophyllus and Carica papaya. Dominant species recorded included herbs Bidens alba, Emilia sonchifolia, Euphorbia hirta, Euphorbia thymifolia and Wedelia trilobata, climbing shrub Bougainvillea spectabilis, shrub Solanum torvum and other common ornamental shrubs and trees of village and garden environments.

Four mature trees Ailanthus fordii are found in Lin Fa Tei Village (shown on Figures 9.57 and 9.58). This species is protected under Cap. 96 in Hong Kong and considered to be Near Threatened in China (AFCD 2003). However, it is also widely planted for amenity value and the specimens noted here appear to have been planted.

Due to the developed nature of the landscape the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

9.7.2.3.13 The sensitivity of all identified LRs within the site area of Lin Fa Tei are summarized in Table 9.7.3.

Table 9.7.3 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Resources – Lin Fa Tei

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
LFT-LR1	Agricultural Land	Medium	Medium	Low	Young	Medium	Low	Medium
LFT-LR2	Pond	Medium	High	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	High
LFT-LR3	Marsh	Medium	High	Low	Semi-mature	High	High	High
LFT-LR4	Water Course	High	Medium	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
LFT-LR5	Seasonally Wet Grassland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR6	Grassland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR7	Grassland / Shrubland	Medium	Medium	Medium	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR8	Secondary Woodland	High	High	Low	Mature	High	High	High
LFT-LR9	Orchard	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR10	Plantation	Medium	Medium	Medium	Mature	Medium	Medium	Medium
LFT-LR11	Waste Ground	Low	Low	High	Young	Low	Low	Low
LFT-LR12	Urban / Residential Area	Low	Low	High	N/A	N/A	N/A	Low

9.7.2.4 Landscape Resource within the Study Area – Ha Che

LRs are the physical components of the landscape and include the existing geology, topography and vegetation. Several LRs are identified within the Project boundary at Ha Che and will potentially be affected by the Project. LRs within the vicinity of the Project location are described in broad terms below and Figure 9.95 and Figure 9.96 maps the LRs within Study Area for LIA. Figure 9.97 provides photographs of the LRs. Each LR is described in terms of its sensitivity to development.

9.7.2.4.1 HC-LR1 Agricultural Land

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.70 ha within the Study Area.

Small pots of cultivated lands are located at the central eastern parts of the Study Area. Agricultural crops and vegetation include species such as Allium fistulosum, Dracaena sanderiana, Lactuca sativa, Lactuca sativa var. longifolia, Lycium chinense and Raphanus sativus.

This LR sensitivity is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.4.2 HC-LR2 Pond

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.3 ha within the Study Area.

A few ponds were found within the Study Area. These ponds largely include fung shui ponds in villages and small ponds for irrigation. The number of vegetation species recorded is limited and eight species were recorded. The surrounding areas and pond bunds of these ponds are mainly concrete paved areas. Very limited vegetation could be recorded, including common herbaceous species Alternanthera sessilis, Eclipta prostrata, Euphorbia hirta and Hedyotis auricularia which could survive in disturbed areas.

Generally this LR is considered to have a fair condition. Given that village ponds are a landscape feature contributing to the setting of villages, its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.4.3 HC-LR3 Water Course

The Study Area contains some 2.3 ha of naturalistic / agriculturally modified watercourses and 0.2 ha of major channelized watercourse. It is also estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

The valley at Ha Che is relatively narrow and flanked by uplands on either side, reflecting the location of the valley towards the upper part of the drainage basin. As such the water courses tend to be narrower channels and generally follow a meandering course through villages, open storage and light industrial areas with some engineered elements including vertical walls within the urban areas. The channels retain some natural features including natural stream bed and riparian vegetation. Despite their small size, the natural and semi-natural watercourses contribute to the perception of landscape character and quality. The stream and channel corridors are generally well wooded with typical species such as Celtis sinensis, Cinnamomum camphora and Cleistocalyx nervosum lining the banks. The dominant species in the Riparian zone include herbs Alocasia macrorrhizos, Bidens alba, Commelina diffusa and Oxalis debilis subsp. Corymbosa, grass Microstegium ciliatum, climber Pueraria lobata.

Fern Cibotium barometz was recorded in the watercourse in the Study Area. This species is considered to be Vulnerable (AFCD 2003) and protected in China under Category II and Cap. 586 in Hong Kong. Woody climber Gnetum luofuense was also recorded in this habitat and within the Work Limit Boundary. This species is listed as Near Threatened by IUCN (2015), although considered to be Common.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. Despite their small size, watercourses are important components of the overall landscape and so their sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.4.4 HC-LR4 Grassland

This LR covers an area of approximately 14.9 ha within the Study Area.

Upland grassland within the Study Area is important in establishing the character of the landscape due to its elevated, upland location. Grassland is located on the hillside areas at the northern and eastern fringes of the Study Area. Vegetation in the hillside grassland includes grass Miscanthus sp. and Neyraudia reynaudiana, fern Dicranopteris pedata. Despite occasional scattered shrubs, this habitat is generally open and simple in structure with Woody vegetation including shrubs such as Breynia fruticosa, Rhaphiolepis indica and Rhodomytrus tomentosa. There are also some small pockets of grassland found within the valley floor area. These tend to be dominated by weedy species, such as, Bidens alba, Ipomoea cairica, Mikania micrantha and Solanum americanum.

This LR forms a peripheral part of the overall landscape of the Study Area and the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.4.5 HC-LR5 Grassland / Shrubland

This LR covers an area of approximately 16.3 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 500 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

The grassland / shrubland form clustered belts of bushy vegetation within the lower and mid-slope areas of the uplands to the north and eastern fringes of the Study Area. The dominant vegetation species include fern Blechnum orientale and Dicranopteris pedata, grass Neyraudia reynaudiana, herb Duhaldea cappa, and shrubs Baeckea frutescens, Breynia fruticosa, Bridelia tomentosa, Helicteres angustifolia and Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia, and small trees Rhus chinensis and Rhus succedanea, climber Gnetum parvifolium, and tree species, such as, Aporusa dioica and Cinnamomum camphora.

A sapling of tree Aquilaria sinensis was recorded in LR area (shown on Figures 9.95 and 9.96). This species is considered to be Vulnerable by IUCN (2015) and in China Red Data Book (Pang et al. 2011), Near Threatened (AFCD 2003), and protected under Category II in China and Cap. 586 in Hong Kong. It is locally common in lowland forest.

This LR forms a part of the overall landscape which contributes to the perception of landscape character and amenity; and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.4.6 HC-LR6 Secondary Woodland

This LR covers an area of approximately 30.8 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 20,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Extensive belts of Secondary woodland are found along the lower slopes of the uplands to the east of the Study Area. Together with plantation woodland at the uplands to the west of the Study Area this tree coverage is important in contributing to the enclosed character of this valley landscape. The woodland consisted of Native tree species including Aporusa dioica, Celtis sinensis, Cinnamomum camphora, Litsea glutinosa and Sterculia lanceolata. The secondary woodlands located in the hillside area exhibits a more continuous structure, with more disturbance observed at the margins of village areas. The understorey of the Secondary Woodland includes species such as herb Alocasia macrorrhizos, ferns Cyclosorus parasiticus and Pteris semipinnata, and shrub Psychotria asiatica and Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia. Climbing shrubs Embelia ribes are also found in tree canopies.

Exotic tree species Camellia japonica was recorded in the secondary woodland within the Study Area. This species is protected under Cap. 96 in Hong Kong. An exotic shrub species Michelia figo was also recorded in the secondary woodland in the Study Area which is also protected under Cap. 96. It should however be noted that only planted specimens of these two species were recorded at the fringe of the secondary woodland.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. It forms an important part of the landscape of the valley area and so its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.4.7 HC-LR7 Fung Shui Woodland

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.8 ha within the Study Area and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 400 nos. of trees within the study area.

An identified fung shui woodland is found on the valley side slope behind Shui Kan Shek village. There are some large mature native woodland trees including species such as Cinnamomum camphora, Machilus chekiangensis, Machilus pauhoi, Mallotus paniculatus and Microcos nervosa, and other small tree and tree species, including Aporusa dioica, Bridelia tomentosa, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Sterculia lanceolata. Other floral species recorded include ferns Cyclosorus parasiticus and Pteris semipinnata, shrubs Glochidion eriocarpum, Psychotria asiatica and Rhaphiolepis indica and climbing shrub Uvaria macrophylla.

Two seedlings of tree Aquilaria sinensis were recorded in LR area (shown on Figures 9.95 and 9.96). This species is considered to be Vulnerable by IUCN (2015) and in China Red Data Book (Pang et al. 2011), Near Threatened (AFCD 2003), and protected under Category II in China and Cap. 586 in Hong Kong. It is locally common in lowland forest.

Generally this LR is considered to have a high to fair condition. Despite its limited extent, it forms an important part of the landscape heritage of the area and so its sensitivity is considered to be high.

9.7.2.4.8 HC-LR8 Orchard

This LR covers an area of approximately 0.1 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 50 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Two small areas of orchard are located at A Kung Tin. The trees are quite sparsely planted and are in fair condition. The planted fruit trees include fruit tree species Clausena lansium, Dimocarpus longan and Erythrina japonica.

This LR forms a small part of the overall landscape and so the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be medium.

9.7.2.4.9 HC-LR9 Plantation

This LR covers an area of approximately 16.3 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 8,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Plantation is located at a number of areas within the Study Area. It forms the roadside planting along the northern part of Fan Kam Road and the enclosure to the Hong Kong Police Force's Junior Police Call Activity Centre and integrated youth training camp in this area. The plantation in this northern area is relatively mature. Plantation woodland is also located along portions of the engineered / channelized watercourses of the Study area and in clusters along the valley edges to the east and west. Tree species include Acacia confusa, Aporusa dioica, Bridelia tomentosa, Ficus hispida, Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. cumingiana, Melia azedarach and Sterculia lanceolata. Other vegetation within this LR includse grass Cynodon dactylon, fern Pteris semipinnata, climbers Ipomoea cairica, Mikania micrantha, and shrub Lantana camara.

One seedling of tree Aquilaria sinensis was recorded in LR area (shown on Figures 9.95 and 9.96). This species is considered to be Vulnerable by IUCN (2015) and in China Red Data Book (Pang et al. 2011), Near Threatened (AFCD 2003), and protected under Category II in China and Cap. 586 in Hong Kong. It is locally common in lowland forest.

The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be high.

9.7.2.4.10 HC-LR10 Waste Ground

This LR covers an area of approximately 11.80 ha and it is estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,000 nos. of trees within the Study Area.

Areas of waste ground are found around village margins and bordering industrial and open storage facilities. These are found at several areas across the valley floor, but are more concentrated towards the southern part of the Study Area. These areas generally comprise abandoned or disturbed land which are dominated by common species, such as herbs Ageratum conyzoides, Eclipta prostrata, Emilia sonchifolia and Hedyotis auricularia, grass Pennisetum purpureum and weedy tree Leucaena leucocephala.

Due to the disturbed nature of the landscape, the amenity value of this LR is low. The sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

9.7.2.4.11 HC-LR11 Urban / Residential Area

The Study Area contains approximately 75.80ha of developed land largely located on lowland areas extending across much of the valley floor of the Study Area. These areas comprise of a combination of roads, light industrial and open storage areas, village and residential infill areas. It is also estimated that within this LR there are approximately 1,500 nos. of trees within the study area.

This LR incorporates some garden areas and land lots within building compounds and areas of the public realm such as streets and village open spaces. Trees include common or cultivated species such as Celtis sinensis, Litchi chinensis, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Sterculia lanceolata. Ornamental and garden types of planting include climbing shrub Bougainvillea spectabilis, shrubs Calliandra haematocephala, Lantana camara and Solanum torvum. In other less managed areas, vegetation includes herbs Conyza canadensis, Euphorbia hypericifolia, Kyllinga polyphylla, Oxalis corniculata and Wedelia trilobata, grass Bothriochloa bladhii and Cynodon dactylon, climbers Ipomoea cairica and Mikania micrantha.

One sapling of tree Aquilaria sinensis was recorded in LR area (shown on Figures 9.95 and 9.96). This species is considered to be Vulnerable by IUCN (2015) and in China Red Data Book (Pang et al. 2011), Near Threatened (AFCD 2003), and protected under Category II in China and Cap. 586 in Hong Kong. It is locally common in lowland forest.

Due to the developed nature of the landscape, the sensitivity of this LR is considered to be low.

The sensitivity of all identified LRs within the site area of Ha Che are summarized in Table 9.7.4.

Table 9.7.4 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Resources – Ha Che

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
HC-LR1	Agricultural Land	Low	Low	Medium	Young	High	Low	Medium
HC-LR2	Pond	High	High	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	High
HC-LR3	Water Course	High	Medium	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
HC-LR4	Grassland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
HC-LR5	Grassland / Shrubland	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
HC-LR6	Secondary Woodland	High	Medium	Low	Mature	Medium	Medium	High
HC-LR7	Fung Shui Woodland	High	High	Low	Mature	High	High	High
HC-LR8	Orchard	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
HC-LR9	Plantation	Medium	Medium	Medium	Mature	Medium	Medium	High
HC-LR10	Waste Ground	Low	Low	High	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Low
HC-LR11	Urban / Residential Area	Low	Low	High	N/A	N/A	Select	Low

9.7.3. Landscape Character Areas

9.7.3.1 Landscape Character Areas – Sung Shan New Village

Several LCAs have been identified within the Study Area which will potentially be affected by the Project. These areas and their sensitivity to change are described below. Figure 9.06 shows the location and extent of the LCAs. Refer to Figure 9.07 for photographs of the LCAs.

9.7.3.1.1 SSNV-LCA01 Tai Shu Ha Channelised River Corridor Landscape

At the northern edge of the Study Area there is a distinctive trapezoidal concrete lined drainage channel which extends beyond the Study Area towards Yuen Long. This channel is flanked on either side by Tai Shu Ha Road and together these elements form a hard and open engineered landscape which contrasts with the smaller more enclosed and intricate village areas on either side of this infrastructure corridor. The LCA is dominated by hardscape elements and is largely devoid of trees although there are some weeds and grasses established within the channel which have a minor greening and softening influence of the landscape character of this LCA. This LCA accounts for approximately 1.62m² of the Study Area. Owing to the disturbance caused by the extensive infrastructure development, this area is considered to have a low sensitivity to change. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.1.2 SSNV-LCA02 Yao Chao Po / Shui Tsui Lo Wai Rural Residential Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 35.60 ha, is part of the developed broad plain formed as the River valley emerges from the uplands and widens to form the more open landscape towards Shap Pat Heung. The areas is characterised by relatively densely clustered 2-3 storey housing development interspersed with occasional small areas of remnant / abandoned fields and waste ground. The residential development are centred around the villages of Yao Chao Po, Shui Tsui Lo Wai to the east and Tong Tai Po to the west and urban infill development between these village areas which together make up this LCA. As a result of its developed nature the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and its sensitivity to change medium. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.1.3 SSNV-LCA03 Sung Shan Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

The urban area of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 29.29 ha, is characterised by its mixed nature of development, with village and residential areas interspersed with some areas of light industrial development and their associated large yards and warehouse type buildings and some open storage land uses. There is also a greater proportion of abandoned land / waste ground which contributes to the urban fabric having a less organised structure than the village areas further to the east. This LCA is located within the narrower valley areas associated with the upper reaches of the drainage basin, where the surrounding upland areas provide a greater sense of green enclosure and where natural topography strongly influences the form of urban development. Two-storey and three-storey village houses within Sung Shan New Village and adjacent settlements are distributed in clusters along the winding access roads through the valley whilst industrial development occupies the areas bordering the existing nullah and minor valleys at the foothills of the uplands. Given the nature of this LCA, its quality is considered to range from medium and overall sensitivity to change is medium.

9.7.3.1.4 SSNV-LCA04 Sung Shan Valley Agricultural Village Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 14.80 ha, forms a lower density area of abandoned farmland and waste ground interspersed with rural residential development and some small scale agricultural activities. The LCA occupies gently sloping land on the southern side of the river valley which rises up from approximately +15 mPD at the riverside to +26mPD at the margins of the uplands LCA to the South. The landscape is characterized by remnant field patterns which follow the contours of the slope and in turn have influenced the linear arrangement of land use and settlement patterns arranged along this valley edge. As a result of its rural but in parts disturbed and degraded nature, the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and its sensitivity to change medium.

9.7.3.1.5 SSNV-LCA05 Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape

The landscape of steeply sloping hills and sharp incised summits extends on an east - west orientation covering an area of some 40.77 ha in the northern and southern portion of the Study Area. The hills within the Study Area range from around +152.0mPD at the northern range of hills to +96mPD in the southern area. There is also a pronounced Knoll at the eastern side of Sung Shan New Village with a height of approximately +48mPD. The landscape is largely characterized by coarse grassland at higher levels with shrubland at lower levels. The shrubland tends to be concentrated in the sheltered areas formed by a series of steep sided valleys or gullies which trace a north-south orientation from the ridgeline. This open hillside landscape forms a naturalistic backdrop to the views from the western part of the Study Area and has a high landscape quality and, the sensitivity of this LCA is assessed as high. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.1.6 SSNV-LCA06 Upland Fringe Woodland Landscape

The LCA covering area of approximately 15.63 ha extends along the valley edges to the north and south east of the Study Area. This woodland LCA is formed from a combination of secondary woodland and plantation which together form a woodland belt fringing the uplands and providing a woodland edge to the developed lowland area. This provides a distinct buffer between the naturalistic uplands and the developed lowlands and provides screening and enclosing function to village and light industrial developments along the valley edges. Due to its landscape function, the landscape quality of this LCA is considered to be high and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as high. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.1.7 The sensitivity of all LCAs within the Site Area of Sung Shan Village are summarized in Table 9.7.5.

Table 9.7.5 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Character Areas – Sung Shan New Village

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
SSNV-LCA01	Tai Shu Ha Channelised River Corridor Landscape	Medium	Low	Medium	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Low
SSNV-LCA02	Yao Chao Po / Shui Tsui Lo Wai Rural Residential Landscape	Medium	Medium	High	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
SSNV-LCA03	Sung Shan Valley Rural Industrial Landscape	Medium	Medium	High	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
SSNV-LCA04	Sung Shan Valley Agricultural Village Landscape	Medium	Medium	Medium	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
SSNV-LCA05	Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape	High	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	High
SSNV-LCA06	Upland Fringe Woodland Landscape	High	High	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High

9.7.3.2 Landscape Character Areas – Tai Wo

Several LCAs have been identified within the Study Area which will potentially be affected by the Project. These areas and their sensitivity to change are described below. Figure 9.34 shows the location and extent of the LCAs. Refer to Figure 9.35 for photographs of the LCAs.

9.7.3.2.1 TW-LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape

At the western edge of the Study Area, there are concrete lined drainage channels which form open features running through the landscape. The LCA is dominated by hardscape elements with occasional trees along the channel banks. This LCA accounts for approximately 1.96ha of the Study Area. This LCA is considered to have a low sensitivity to change. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.2.2 TW-LCA02 Transport Infrastructure Corridor Landscape

The tunnel portal, MTR Maintenance Centre and railway sidings associated with the West Rail Line are an assemblage of large scale infrastructure. Although the Study Area contains a number of roads and other infrastructural elements, these are considered to be an integral part of the character areas through which they pass. This main transport corridor has however a sufficient scale to have established its own character as it passes through the western part of the Study Area. The landscape of this LCA which covers 7.88ha is characterised by the hard landscape of the railway structures and the plantation woodland planted as part of the mitigation of the route. Given the scale of this LCA and the nature of the development, it is considered to have a low sensitivity to further change. As the LCA lies beyond the proposed works area, the LCA will not be affected by the proposed works in terms of landscape impact.

9.7.3.2.3 TW-LCA03 Tai Wo / Cheung Po Village Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 34.84 ha, is associated with the villages of Tai Wo and Cheung Po and Ho Pui further to the East. These areas are characterised by relatively densely clustered 2-3 storey housing development interspersed with occasional small areas of remnant / abandoned fields and waste ground. The villages are a combination of traditional village settlement patterns and organic and less dense layout of modern village houses. In Tai Wo, 2 to 3-storey village houses are distributed in clusters and arranged in rows associated with farmland plots. In Cheung Po, some village houses have been redeveloped, forming clusters of new single house development, commonly demarcated with solid fence walls. As a result of its developed nature, the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and its sensitivity to change medium. Part of the proposed works run through this LCA.

9.7.3.2.4 TW-LCA04 Rural Village Landscape

The landscape of this LCA covers an area of approximately 4.88 ha. within the Study Area. This landscape is characterized by a combination of scattered rural settlement interspersed with remnant and active agricultural fields. Given a combination of its lower density of development and integration with the surrounding agricultural field pattern, the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as medium.

9.7.3.2.5 TW-LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 20.40 ha, is located to the central northern part of Study Area. The landscape of this LCA is characterized by active agricultural fields and horticultural activities which are relatively well maintained and form coherent blocks of land use interspersed between the village developments. The quality of this LCA is considered medium and its overall sensitivity to change is also considered medium. The LCA will not be affected by the proposed works in terms of landscape impact.

9.7.3.2.6 TW-LCA06 Urban Fringe Grassland Landscape

This LCA represents the remnant agricultural land which has slowly been reduced due to encroachment by the villages as they expand and undergo changing land uses. The remaining area covering some 11.43 ha consists of abandoned areas covered with grass and some shrubs land and others reverting to woodland. Some of this area to the west of Cheung Po has been cleared presumably for new village development. Given the degraded and fragmentary nature of this area, it is considered to have a medium sensitivity to further change. This LCA borders part of the proposed works area and may be affected by the proposed works in terms of landscape impact.

9.7.3.2.7 TW-LCA07 Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 11.25 ha, is located in the central part of Study Area. This LCA represents the area of the valley floor formed by the meandering of stream channels which currently form a braided drainage pattern across this low lying open landscape. There are some undulations within the floor formed by the meandering of the channels through the remnant agricultural land of the valley floor. The land cover largely consists of abandoned areas covered with grass and some shrubs and small clusters of areas reverting to woodland. Given the open and picturesque nature of this area, it is considered to have a high sensitivity to further change. This LCA borders part of the proposed works area and may be affected by the proposed works in terms of landscape impact.

9.7.3.2.8 TW-LCA08 Shrubby Grassland Foothills Landscape

This LCA, located in southern part of the Study Area and covering some 17.86 ha, is characterized by a combination of grass covered slopes and undulating terrain with a combination of rough grass and intermittent shrubland. This ranges of hills form an important backdrop to views south from the Project site. This rural landscape character is common throughout the New Territories. Due to its undeveloped nature, the landscape quality of this LCA is considered to be high and is sensitive to change. Overall, the sensitivity of this LCA is assessed as high.

9.7.3.2.9 TW-LCA09 Upland Wooded Landscape

The LCA covering area of approximately 17.73 ha extends along the ridge lines along the south and south east of the Study Area. This woodland LCA is formed from secondary woodland extending from the nearby Country Park and provides an attractive woodland fringe to the open valley lowland area below. The landscape amenity of this area is high as it acts as a green backdrop to views within the lowland village areas to the north and east. The landscape quality of this LCA is considered to be high and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as high. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.2.10 The sensitivity of all identified LCAs within the site area of Tai Wo are summarized in Table 9.7.6.

Table 9.7.6 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Character Areas – Tai Wo

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
TW-LCA01	Channelised River Corridor Landscape	Low	Low	Medium	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Low
TW-LCA02	Transport Infrastructure Corridor Landscape	Low	Low	High	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Low
TW- LCA03	Tai Wo / Cheung Po Village Landscape	Medium	Medium	High	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
TW- LCA04	Rural Village Landscape	Medium	Medium	High	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
TW- LCA05	Rural Agricultural Landscape	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	Medium
TW- LCA06	Urban Fringe Grassland Landscape	Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Low	Medium
TW- LCA07	Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape	High	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	High
TW- LCA08	Shrubby Grassland Foothills Landscape	High	Medium	Medium	Semi-mature	Medium	Medium	High
TW- LCA09	Upland Wooded Landscape	High	High	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High

9.7.3.3 Landscape Character Areas – Lin Fa Tei

Several LCAs have been identified within the Study Area which will potentially be affected by the Project. These areas and their sensitivity to change are described below. Figures 9.60 and 9.61 shows the location and extent of the LCAs. Refer to Figure 9.62 for photographs of the LCAs.

9.7.3.3.1 LFT-LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape

To the north and west of the study area, there are channelized drainage channels which together with access roads along their margin and associated roadside trees form linear features extending through this lowland landscape. The channel to the east is aligned with Kam Shui South Road and has mature tree planting along its banks and a natural stream bed whereas the channel to the north is more engineered in appearance. This LCA accounts for approximately 3.87 ha of the Study Area. Owing to the enclosed tree lined setting of the channels, the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and is considered to have a medium sensitivity to change. A small portion of this LCA extends into the project boundary of the proposed works.

9.7.3.3.2 LFT-LCA02 Rural Village Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 37.73 ha, is associated with the villages of Lin Fa Tei, Shui Tsan Tin, Ngau Keng and the residential areas around Kum Fuk Gardens. These areas are characterised by relatively densely clustered 2-3 storey housing development interspersed with occasional small areas of remnant / abandoned fields and waste ground. Within some of the village areas there are traditional ancestor halls and Fung Shui Ponds associated with some local cultural and heritage value. As a result of its developed nature the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and its sensitivity to change medium. The central part of the proposed works runs through this LCA.

9.7.3.3.3 LFT-LCA03 Rural Residential Infill Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 5.92 ha and comprises modern residential areas of detatched and semi-detached private housing. Some of these areas are coordinated developments comprising small estates within village areas, whilst there is also an area of private housing with a club house zoned as residential. These new infill developments are clustered near the central and northern part of the Study Area around Kam Sheung Road. As a result of its developed nature, the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and its sensitivity to change medium. Part of the proposed channel works adjoin the edge of part of this LCA.

9.7.3.3.4 LFT-LCA04 Rural Industrial Landscape

The urban area of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 20.70 ha, is characterised by its predominantly light industrial character with activities such as open container storage and car repairing garages located in the western part of the Study Area clustered around Kam Sheung Road. These Industrial activities are often enclosed by temporary fencing but still represent a visual disturbance to the rural scene.There is a proportion of abandoned land / waste ground and village type housing interspersed within these larger scale industrial yards and buildings leading to a less uniform scale of urban pattern compared to village areas in LCA01. Given the nature of this LCA, its quality is considered to range from medium to low and overall sensitivity to change is medium.

9.7.3.3.5 LFT-LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 45.95 ha, is located to the north of the Study Area sandwiched between Kam Shui South Road and Kam Sheung Road. The landscape of this LCA is characterized by a combination of active and inactive agricultural fields and overgrown small holdings. The area to the south is more actively farmed than the northern portion of this LCA which has a higher proportion of abandoned areas and waste ground. Tree clusters are scattered across the farming area with fruit trees and some small clusters of plantation. The quality of this LCA ranges from high in the south to medium in the north and its overall sensitivity to change is considered medium.

9.7.3.3.6 LFT-LCA06 Urban Fringe Landscape

The LCA covers an area of approximately 39.17 ha as a belt which extends across the south eastern part of the Study Area bordering the edges of Lin Fa Tei, Shui Tsan Tin and Ngau Keng villages. The landscape of this LCA is characterized by a combination of inactive agricultural fields and overgrown small holdings and other disturbed areas of land supporting self-sown and weedy vegetation. There are also clusters of plantation within the landscape mosaic, particularly in association with the stream course which passes through the centre of this character area. Largely presenting an unmanaged appearance, the LCA does provide a transition between the urban village areas and the more naturalistic landscape of the uplands to the south of the Study Area. Given the nature of this LCA, its quality is considered to be medium and overall sensitivity to change is also judged as medium.

9.7.3.3.7 LFT-LCA07 Foothills Woodland Landscape

The LCA, covers an area of approximately 25.06 ha, is located in the south western part of the Study Area. This woodland LCA is formed from a combination of secondary woodland and plantation and some small pockets of grassland which together form a vegetative belt clothing the uplands and the upper portion of the stream channel at this location. Within the Study Area, these uplands rise to a height of approximately +96mPD. Although covered with intermittent tree and shrub growth, the southerly and northerly parts of this LCA also features grave structures which line the slopes. The central portion of this LCA, which aligns with the stream channel, is however more densely wooded and has a tranquil landscape character. The quality of this LCA is considered to be high and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as high. As the LCA lies just beyond the proposed works area, the LCA will not be affected by the proposed works in terms of landscape impact.

9.7.3.3.8 The sensitivity of all identified LCAs within the site area of Lin Fa Tei are summarized in Table 9.7.7.

Table 9.7.7 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Character Areas – Lin Fa Tei

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
LFT-LCA01	Channelised River Corridor Landscape	Medium	Medium	Medium	Mature	Medium	Low	Medium
LFT-LCA02	Rural Village Landscape	Medium	Low	High	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Medium
LFT-LCA03	Rural Residential Infill Landscape	Medium	Medium	High	Young	Medium	Low	Medium
LFT-LCA04	Rural Industrial Landscape	Medium to Low	Low	High	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Medium
LFT-LCA05	Rural Agricultural Landscape	High to Medium	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	Medium	Medium	Medium
LFT-LCA06	Urban Fringe Landscape	Medium	Low	Medium	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Medium
LFT-LCA07	Foothills Woodland Landscape	High	High	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High

9.7.3.4 Landscape Character Areas – Ha Che

Several LCAs have been identified within the Study Area which will potentially be affected by the Project. These areas and their sensitivity to change are described below. Figures 9.98 and 9.99 shows the location and extent of the LCAs. Refer to Figure 9.100 for photographs of the LCAs.

9.7.3.4.1 HC-LCA01 Fan Kam Road Corridor Landscape

At the northern edge of the Study Area, Fan Kam Road leaves the urban area and develops an arboreal character due to the enclosure of dense woodland for much of its length. The woodland lining along the road is largely planted as mitigation for the original engineering scheme of the road, utilizing species typically used for road engineering schemes at that time. The roadside Melaleuca cajuputi subspecies have grown to a significant size and represent a distinctive landscape feature characterising this road corridor. The landscape of this LCA covers an area of approximately 1.37 ha. It is considered that this LCA has a medium to high landscape quality and an overall high sensitivity to further change. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.4.2 HC-LCA02 Institutional Campus Landscape

The landscape of this LCA covers an area of approximately 4.55 ha in the northern part of the Study Area. Although largely screened from the nearby Fan Kam Road by topography and belts of tree plantation, this campus landscape is of a contrasting scale and character to the surrounding village and urban fringe landscape of the developed part of the valley. The quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and its sensitivity to change medium. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.4.3 HC-LCA03 Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

The urban area of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 28.16 ha, is located in the central and south west parts of the Study Area. This LCA occupies the flat land at the edges of village areas and along the existing stream course at the centre of the valley and bordering Fan Kam Road and makes use of the minor valleys which extend into the hill range to the west. The developed part of this landscape occupies a number of built clusters surrounded by abandoned and disturbed land bordered by dense scrub growth. Land uses within this area range from the relatively large open storage areas to the south west and various yards, works shops and scrapyard type uses through the central valley area. Owing to it’s disturbed nature this LCA is considered to have a medium to low landscape quality and an overall low sensitivity to further change.

9.7.3.4.4 HC-LCA04 Ha Che Valley Village Landscape

The landscape of this LCA, covering an area of approximately 50.31 ha, is characterised by relatively densely clustered 2-3 storey housing development interspersed with occasional small areas of remnant / abandoned fields and waste ground set within the relatively narrow wooded valley setting formed by the surrounding uplands. This village type LCA is centred on the villages of Ha Che, Shui Kan Shek and Chuk Hang where traditional village features such as Fung Shui Ponds and woodland are located. These traditional compactly developed settlements have expanded with more modern urban infill development between these village areas. As a result of its developed nature, the quality of this LCA is considered to be medium and its sensitivity to change is medium. The proposed works run through parts of this LCA and impacts will be assessed as part of the LIA.

9.7.3.4.5 HC-LCA05 Foothills Woodland Landscape

The LCA covering area of approximately 46.58 ha extends along the valley edges to the north and south east of the Study Area. Native secondary woodland extends from Lam Tsuen Country Park across the hillside to the edges of the Ha Che Valley.The woodland within the LCA is formed from a combination of secondary woodland and plantation which together form a woodland belt fringing the uplands and providing a woodland edge to the developed lowland area. This provides a distinct buffer between the naturalistic uplands and the developed lowlands and provides screening and enclosing function to village and light industrial developments along the valley edges. Due to its landscape function the landscape quality of this LCA is considered to be high and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as high. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.4.6 HC-LCA06 Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape

The upland topography which defines the Ha Che valley form a large proportion of the eastern part of the Study Area and parts of the north west of the Study Area. This landscape of steeply sloping hills and rounded summits extends on a north - south orientation covering an area of some 29.41 ha in the northern and southern portion of the Study Area. The hills within the study area range in height from the edge of the valley floor at around 34.0mPD up to 178.0mPD at the highest point of the eastern range of hills. The landscape is characterized by coarse grassland at higher levels with shrubland at lower levels and across the lower hills to the north. This open hillside landscape forms a naturalistic enclosure defining this upland valley and has a high landscape quality. The sensitivity of this LCA is assessed as high. This LCA will not be affected by any proposed works.

9.7.3.4.7 HC-LCA07 Urban Fringe Landscape

The LCA covers an area of approximately 10.29 ha as pockets of abandoned land bordering the village areas. The landscape of this LCA is characterized by a combination of inactive agricultural fields and overgrown areas of land supporting self-sown and weedy vegetation. Largely presenting an unmanaged appearance the LCA does provide a transition between the urban character of village areas and the more naturalistic landscape of the woodland fringes as the edges of the valley floor. Given the nature of this LCA its quality is considered to be medium and overall sensitivity to change is also judged as medium.

9.7.3.4.8 The sensitivity of all identified LCAs of Ha Che are summarized in Table 9.7.8.

Table 9.7.8 Sensitivity of Identified Landscape Character Areas – Ha Che

ID No.	Name	Quality of existing landscape (Low / Medium / High)	Importance /Rarity of landscape elements (Low / Medium / High)	Ability to accommodate change (Low / Medium / High)	Maturity of Landscape (Young / Semi-mature / Mature)	Significance of change in local context (Low / Medium / High)	Significance of change in regional context (Low / Medium / High)	Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
HC-LCA01	Fan Kam Road Corridor Landscape	High to Medium	Medium	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
HC-LCA02	Institutional Campus Landscape	Medium	Medium	Medium	Mature	Medium	Medium	Medium
HC-LCA03	Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape	Medium to Low	Low	High	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Low
HC-LCA04	Ha Che Valley Village Landscape	Medium	Low	High	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Medium
HC-LCA05	Foothills Woodland Landscape	High	Medium	Low	Mature	High	Medium	High
HC-LCA06	Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape	High	Medium	Low	Semi-mature	High	Medium	High
HC-LCA07	Urban Fringe Landscape	Medium	Low	Medium	Semi-mature	Low	Low	Medium

9.8 Visual Baseline Study

9.8.1. Visual Envelope and Zones of Visual Influence

The visual envelope (VE) at each of the four sites; the area from which the proposed works will be seen, is shaped by a combination of the existing residential and infrastructural development, the surrounding landform and its associated vegetation.

9.8.1.1 VE – Sung Shan New Village

9.8.1.1.1 The VE for the proposed scheme extends in a narrow corridor from the south of Tong Tau Po Tseun along the southern edges of Sung Shan New village and extending to the south of a wooded knoll located to the east of Sung Shan New Village. The extent of the VE is illustrated in Figure 9.08. Within the VE the primary Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) is described as follows.

9.8.1.1.2 This primary ZVI follows the alignment of the existing channel corridor. Owing to a combination of the existing built structures, landform and vegetation this zone is largely restricted to the area immediately adjacent to the proposed works area / channel alignment. This is the area with the greatest visibility of the proposed works largely shaped by the woodland margins of the existing channel edges and the high fence walls of industrial and residential garden boundaries lining the edges of the watercourse. The zone extends through some inaccessible areas but briefly intersects with public roads and pedestrian footpaths crossing the channel to the South of Sung Shan New village.

9.8.1.1.3 It is also a common practice to assess additional zones of visual influence beyond the primary ZVI. This would include some more distant and elevated areas with limited visibility of the proposed works due to intervening obstacles including a combination of existing landform, built structures and vegetation so that the visible part of the proposed works are limited to partial, filtered or glimpses views of the proposed drainage enhancement works. Owing to the relatively small scale of the proposed works and their low elevation in the landscape, this extended ZVI is not considered to be significant at Sung Shan New village and therefore the visual baseline conditions are described with reference to the VE defined by the primary ZVI alone.

9.8.1.2 VE – Tai Wo

9.8.1.2.1 The VE for the proposed scheme extends to the south and south east of Tai Wo in a broad zone, the southern and eastern edges of which are defined by the landform and extent of woodland of the uplands to the south of the study area. To the north the visual envelope is defined by tree planting and built structures associate with the village margins of Tai Wo and Cheung Po villages. The extent of the VE is illustrated in Figure 9.36. Within the VE, the primary ZVI is described as follows.

9.8.1.2.2 This primary ZVI extends in a south easterly direction across the open valley floor and lower slopes of the uplands to the south of the Study Area. This is the area with the greatest visibility of the proposed works largely shaped by the landform of the uplands and the woodland margins of the higher slopes of the uplands to the south of the study area and the existing woodland and plantation areas to the south of Tai Wo and Cheung Po villages. The zone extends through some publicly inaccessible areas but briefly intersects with public pedestrian footpaths aligned to the route of the channel to the South of Tai Wo village.

9.8.1.2.3 It is also a common practice to assess additional zones of visual influence beyond the primary ZVI. This would include some more distant and elevated areas with limited visibility of the proposed works due to intervening obstacles including a combination of existing landform, built structures and vegetation so that the visible part of the proposed works are limited to partial, filtered or glimpses views of the proposed drainage enhancement works. Owing to the relatively small scale of the proposed works and their low elevation in the landscape, this extended ZVI is not considered to be significant at Tai Wo and therefore the visual baseline conditions are described with reference to the VE defined by the primary ZVI alone.

9.8.1.3 VE – Lin Fa Tei

9.8.1.3.1 The VE for the proposed scheme covers two areas, associated with the channel upgrading works proposed within Lin Fa Tei Village gateway area and adjacent to Kam Sheung Road and the more extensive and separate area of works running to the south of Lin Fa Tei village. The VE at this first area is defined by the corridor of Kam Sheung Road and the extent of the open area occupied by car parking and the village pond at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway. The VE of the second area forms a broad corridor extending across open land areas adjacent to the channel to the east and west of Lin Fa Tei and forming a narrower corridor defined by village areas at the centre of the proposed works area. The extent of the VE is illustrated in Figure 9.63. Within the VE the primary ZVI is described as follows.

9.8.1.3.2 This primary ZVI follows the alignment of the existing channel corridors and covers areas of open waste ground and abandoned farm land as well as extending to more developed areas. This is the area with the greatest visibility of the proposed works largely shaped by the woodland margins of the existing channel edges, village edges and private property boundaries. The zone extends through some inaccessible areas to the south of Lin Fa Tei but intersects with public roads and pedestrian footpaths crossing and following the channel to the South and East of Lin Fa Tei village.

9.8.1.3.3 It is also a common practice to assess additional zones of visual influence beyond the primary ZVI. This would include some more distant and elevated areas with limited visibility of the proposed works due to intervening obstacles including a combination of existing landform, built structures and vegetation so that the visible part of the proposed works are limited to partial, filtered or glimpses views of the proposed drainage enhancement works. Owing to the relatively small scale of the proposed works, their low elevation in the landscape and the relatively flat surrounding terrain of low rise development, this extended ZVI is not considered to be significant at the Lin Fa Tei village and therefore the visual baseline conditions are described with reference to the VE defined by the primary ZVI alone.

9.8.1.4 VE – Ha Che

9.8.1.4.1 The VE for the proposed scheme extends in a narrow corridor across the valley floor from A Kung Tin in the north to the south of Ha Che village in the south of the Study Area, with periodic extensions to this narrow corridor where the channel intersects with roads, footpaths and open areas. The northern portion of the VE is located to the east of Fan Kam Road between A Kung Tin and Chuk Hang and then crosses Fan Kam Road and extends as a narrow corridor to the west of Kam Fan Road at Ha Che. The extent of the VE is illustrated in Figure 9.101 to 9.102. Within the VE the primary ZVI is described as follows.

9.8.1.4.2 This primary ZVI follows the alignment of the existing channel corridor. Owing to a combination of the existing built structures, landform and vegetation, this zone is largely restricted to the area immediately adjacent to the proposed works area / channel alignment. This is the area with the greatest visibility of the proposed works largely shaped by the woodland margins of the existing channel edges and the high fence walls of industrial and residential garden boundaries lining the edges of the watercourse. The zone extends through some inaccessible areas but briefly intersects with public roads and pedestrian footpaths crossing the channel adjacent to Shui Kan Shek at the northern part of the site and also intersects with a section of Fan Kam Road between Ha Che and Chuk Hang villages further to the south.

9.8.1.4.3 It is also a common practice to assess additional zones of visual influence beyond the primary ZVI. This would include some more distant and elevated areas with limited visibility of the proposed works due to intervening obstacles including a combination of existing landform, built structures and vegetation so that the visible part of the proposed works are limited to partial, filtered or glimpses views of the proposed drainage enhancement works. Owing to the relatively small scale of the proposed works and their low elevation in the landscape, this extended ZVI is not considered to be significant at Ha Che and therefore the visual baseline conditions are described with reference to the VE defined by the primary ZVI alone.

9.8.2. Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

VSRs are identified as those groups or individuals, which are sensitive to change, who have a view of the Application Site and may be subject to adverse impacts as a result of the proposed works.

For the purposes of this assessment and in accordance with current approaches, the VSRs are based on publicly accessible and popular locations. Priority is given during the selection to public view points, open spaces and key pedestrian routes although visibility is greatly reduced by scale and proximity of the existing boundary fence walls and dense covering of vegetation along several of the existing channels.

These VSRs are mapped in Figures 9.08, 9.36, 9.63 and 9.101 to 9.102. The VSRs are listed below, together with an assessment of their sensitivity. The views currently experienced by VSRs are shown in Figures 9.09 to 9.12, Figures 9.37 to 9.40, Figures 9.64 to 9.68 and Figures 9.103 to 9.107. The sensitivity of the VSRs to further change is explained in Tables 9.8.1 to 9.8.4.

9.8.2.1 VSR –Sung Shan New Village

SSNV-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village;

SSNV-VSR 2 Pedestrians using channel footbridge;

SSNV-VSR 3 Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road;

SSNV-VSR 4 Residents of properties along Sung Shan New Village access road;

SSNV-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road;

SSNV-VSR 6 Smallholdings south of existing channel;

SSNV-VSR 7 Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village; and

SSNV-VSR 8 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing.

9.8.2.2 VSR – Tai Wo

TW-VSR 1 Residents of Tai Wo (south east);

TW-VSR 2 Walkers on hillside water catchment drainage channel;

TW-VSR 3 Residents of Tai Wo (south);

TW-VSR 4 Residents of Tai Wo (south west);

TW-VSR 5 Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po;

TW-VSR 6 Residents of Cheung Po village (south east); and

TW-VSR 7 Pedestrians on West Rail overbridge to east of site.

9.8.2.3 VSR – Lin Fa Tei

LFT-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road;

LFT-VSR 2 Pedestrians on Footpath between Lin Fa Tei and Kam Sheung Road;

LFT-VSR 3 Residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway;

LFT-VSR 4 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Tsan Tin access road;

LFT-VSR 5 Residents of Lin Fa Tei Riverside;

LFT-VSR 6 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei;

LFT-VSR 7 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (Central);

LFT-VSR 8 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West); and

LFT-VSR 9 Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei.

9.8.2.4 VSR – Ha Che

HC-VSR 1 Pedestrians on industrial area access path;

HC-VSR 2 Residents of village houses north of Shui Kan Shek;

HC-VSR 3 Pedestrians on footpath from Fan Kam Road to Shui Kan Shek;

HC-VSR 4 Residents of village houses at south of Shui Kan Shek;

HC-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road;

HC-VSR 6 Residents of village houses at north of Chuk Hang;

HC-VSR 7 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road;

HC-VSR 8 Residents of Ha Che bordering Fan Kam Road; and

HC-VSR 9 Residents of Ha Che (south east).

The Sensitivity of Visually Sensitive Receivers for each villages are shown in Tables 9.8.1 - 9.8.4.

Table 9.8.1 Sensitivity of Visually Sensitive Receivers – Sung Shan New Village

VSR No.	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	VSR Type (Permanent or Transient) and Number (Very Few/ Few/ Many/ Very Many)	Quality of Existing Views (Poor / Fair/ Good)	Duration of View (Transient / Permanent Receiver)	Alternate Views and Amenity (Poor/ Fair/ Good)	Frequency of View (Very Frequent/ Frequent/ Occasional/ Rare)	Degree of Visibility (Full/ Partial/ Glimpsed/No View)	Sensitivity (Low/ Medium/ High)
SSNV- VSR 1	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village	Transient - Few	Fair	Transient	Good	Occasional	Glimpsed	Low
SSNV- VSR 2	Pedestrians using channel footbridge	Transient - Few	Fair	Transient	Poor	Occasional	Full	Medium
SSNV- VSR 3	Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road	Transient - Few	Good	Transient	Poor	Frequent	Full	High
SSNV- VSR 4	Residents of properties along Sung Shan New Village access road	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Frequent	Partial	Medium
SSNV- VSR 5	Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road	Transient - Many	Good	Transient	Good	Occasional	Glimpsed	Medium
SSNV- VSR 6	Smallholdings south of existing channel	Permanent - Very Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Frequent	Partial	Medium
SSNV- VSR 7	Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village	Transient - Very Few	Good	Transient	Fair	Occasional	Full	High
SSNV- VSR 8	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing	Transient - Few	Good	Transient	Good	Occasional	Partial	Medium

Table 9.8.2 Sensitivity of Visually Sensitive Receivers – Tai Wo

VSR No.	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	VSR Type (Permanent or Transient) and Number (Very Few/ Few/ Many/ Very Many)	Quality of Existing Views (Poor / Fair/ Good)	Duration of View (Transient / Permanent Receiver)	Alternate Views and Amenity (Poor/ Fair/ Good)	Frequency of View (Very Frequent/ Frequent/ Occasional/ Rare)	Degree of Visibility (Full/ Partial/ Glimpsed/No View)	Sensitivity (Low/ Medium/ High)
TW-VSR 1	Residents of Tai Wo (south east)	Permanent - Very Few	Good	Permanent	Fair	Occasional	Partial	High
TW-VSR 2	Walkers on hillside water catchment drainage channel	Transient - Very Few	Good	Transient	Good	Occasional	Glimpsed	Medium
TW-VSR 3	Residents of Tai Wo (south)	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Occasional	Glimpsed	High
TW-VSR 4	Residents of Tai Wo (south west)	Permanent - Very Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Occasional	Glimpsed	High
TW-VSR 5	Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po	Transient - Very Few	Good	Transient	Fair	Occasional	Full	High
TW-VSR 6	Residents of Cheung Po village (south east)	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Frequent	Glimpsed	Medium
TW-VSR 7	Pedestrians on West Rail overbridge to east of site	Transient - Few	Good	Transient	Good	Occasional	Glimpsed	Medium

Table 9.8.3 Sensitivity of Visually Sensitive Receivers – Lin Fa Tei

VSR No.	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	VSR Type (Permanent or Transient) and Number (Very Few/ Few/ Many/ Very Many)	Quality of Existing Views (Poor / Fair/ Good)	Duration of View (Transient / Permanent Receiver)	Alternate Views and Amenity (Poor/ Fair/ Good)	Frequency of View (Very Frequent/ Frequent/ Occasional/ Rare)	Degree of Visibility (Full/ Partial/ Glimpsed/No View)	Sensitivity (Low/ Medium/ High)
LFT- VSR1	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road	Transient - Many	Good	Transient	Poor	Frequent	Full	High
LFT- VSR2	Pedestrians on Footpath between Lin Fa Tei and Kam Sheung Road	Transient - Few	Fair	Transient	Fair	Frequent	Full	Medium
LFT- VSR3	Residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway	Permanent - Many	Fair	Permanent	Fair	Frequent	Full	Medium
LFT- VSR4	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Tsan Tin access road	Transient - Few	Fair	Transient	Good	Occasional	Partial	Medium
LFT- VSR5	Residents of Lin Fa Tei Riverside	Permanent - Few	Fair	Permanent	Poor	Frequent	Full	High
LFT- VSR6	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei	Transient - Many	Fair	Transient	Poor	Frequent	Full	High
LFT- VSR7	Residents of Lin Fa Tei (Central);	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Frequent	Partial	Medium
LFT- VSR8	Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West)	Permanent - Very Few	Good	Permanent	Fair	Frequent	Full	High
LFT- VSR9	Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei	Transient - Very Few	Good	Transient	Poor	Occasional	Full	High

Table 9.8.4 Sensitivity of Visually Sensitive Receivers – Ha Che

VSR No.	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	VSR Type (Permanent or Transient) and Number (Very Few/ Few/ Many/ Very Many)	Quality of Existing Views (Poor / Fair/ Good)	Duration of View (Transient / Permanent Receiver)	Alternate Views and Amenity (Poor/ Fair/ Good)	Frequency of View (Very Frequent/ Frequent/ Occasional/ Rare)	Degree of Visibility (Full/ Partial/ Glimpsed/No View)	Sensitivity (Low/ Medium/ High)
HC- VSR 1	Pedestrians on industrial area access path	Transient - Very Few	Fair	Transient	Poor	Occasional	Full	Low
HC- VSR 2	Residents of village houses north of Shui Kan Shek	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Frequent	Glimpsed	Medium
HC- VSR 3	Pedestrians on footpath from Kam Sheung Road to Shui Kan Shek	Transient - Few	Fair	Transient	Poor	Frequent	Full	Medium
HC- VSR 4	Residents of village houses at south of Shui Kan Shek	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Fair	Frequent	Partial	High
HC- VSR 5	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road	Transient - Few	Good	Transient	Fair	Frequent	Full	High
HC- VSR 6	Residents of village houses at north of Chuk Hang	Permanent - Very Few	Good	Permanent	Fair	Frequent	Full	Medium
HC- VSR 7	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road	Transient - Very Many	Good	Transient	Poor	Frequent	Full	High
HC- VSR 8	Residents of Ha Che bordering Fan Kam Road	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Fair	Frequent	Full	High
HC- VSR 9	Residents of Ha Che (south east)	Permanent - Few	Good	Permanent	Good	Occasional	Partial	Medium

9.8.3. Photomontage

9.8.3.1 Vantage Points (VPs)

Vantage points (VPs) have been selected where typical views of the key VSRs within the visual envelope can be demonstrated. Photomontages have been prepared from these selected VPs to conceptually illustrate the worse-case scenarios for visual impacts unmitigated and mitigated at Day 1 and mitigated Year 10 of operation respectively. The selected VPs are shown in Figures 9.20, 9.47, 9.81and 9.121and the photomontages are presented in Figures 9.21 to 9.29, 9.48 to 9.53, 9.82 to 9.90 and 9.122 to 9.130. The selected VPs are as follows.

Sung Shan New Village

9.8.3.1.1 Vantage Point 01: View looking north-west for pedestrians on footbridge (SSNV-VSR 2) (Refer to Figures 9.21 to 9.23)

9.8.3.1.2 Vantage Point 02: View looking south east along channel for vehicles using Sung Shan New Village access road (SSNV-VSR 5) (Refer to Figures 9.24 to 9.26)

9.8.3.1.3 Vantage Point 03: View looking west for pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village (SSNV-VSR 7) (Refer to Figures 9.27 to 9.29)

Tai Wo

9.8.3.1.4 Vantage Point 01: View looking west for residents of Tai Wo (South East) (TW-VSR1) (Refer to Figures 9.48 to 9.50)

9.8.3.1.5 Vantage Point 02: View looking south for pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po (TW-VSR 5) (Refer to Figures 9.51 to 9.53)

Lin Fa Tei

9.8.3.1.6 Vantage Point 01: View looking south west for residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei village gateway (LFT-VSR 3) (Refer to Figures 9.82 to 9.84)

9.8.3.1.7 Vantage Point 02: View looking east for vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei (LFT-VSR 6) (Refer to Figures 9.85 to 9.87)

9.8.3.1.8 Vantage Point 03: View looking north west for pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei. (LFT-VSR 9) (Refer to Figures 9.88 to 9.90)

Ha Che

9.8.3.1.9 Vantage Point 01: View looking south west for pedestrians on footpath from Fan Kam Road to Shui Kan Shek (HC-VSR 3) (Refer to Figures 9.122 to 9.124)

9.8.3.1.10 Vantage Point 02: View looking east for vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road (HC-VSR 5) (Refer to Figures 9.125 to 9.127)

9.8.3.1.11 Vantage Point 03: View looking south west for vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road (HC-VSR 7) (Refer to Figures 9.128 to 9.130).

9.9 Potential Sources of Landscape and Visual Impact

The proposed works will be the source of impacts inducing adverse landscape and visual impacts during the construction phase and the operation phase. It should be noted that some sources may actually induce positive impact.

9.9.1. Potential Sources of Construction Impact

The site work is anticipated to commence in 2022. During this period, the proposed works may give rise to the following sources of temporary and reversible construction phase impacts:

The commencement of construction activities and their impact on the existing site (e.g. site clearance/ removal of existing vegetation/ vegetated surface and conversion to bare soil, gravel or hard paved surface, site formation and excavation works, presence of construction equipment, machinery and plant, temporary storage of construction materials, setting up of construction site offices, parking and yards, and night-time security lighting etc.);

Erection of site hoardings and temporary noise barriers;

Temporary loss of plantation woodland at the peripheries of the channel alignments as trees grow to maturity;

Impacts arising from the presence of incomplete structures; and

Construction traffic near the project sites and along adjacent access roads.

9.9.2. Potential Sources of Operation Phase Impact

Impacts during the operation phase will be permanent and irreversible. Sources of operation phase impact will include:

Modification of the existing landform (including the channel side slopes and stream embankments) and natural slope profiles to accommodate development proposals including the introduction of new retaining walls and engineered slopes;

Introduction of new built structures such as culverts and footbridges and their associated safety railings.

9.10 Landscape Impact Assessment

There will be a number of impacts on LRs and LCAs during the construction and operational phases prior to the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures. However, these impacts will be confined to areas within the Project boundary. The predicted impacts are described below and in Tables 9.10.5 – Table 9.10.8.

9.10.1. Impacts on Landscape Resources before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within the Project site) – Sung Shan New Village

9.10.1.1 SSNV- LR3 – Water Courses

9.10.1.1.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.4ha of the existing watercourse within the Project boundary would be removed or modified as part of the site clearance prior to the channel formation and construction works. This will also involve the felling of 33 trees (including 3 dead trees) within this LR. In terms of area, this represents 17.39% of this LR within the Study Area and as such the magnitude of change is considered to be large and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be substantial adverse.

9.10.1.1.2 During the operation phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, most of the area will be reinstated as a functioning drainage channel and therefore the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.1.2 SSNV- LR7 – Plantation

9.10.1.2.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, 72% of the tree within the site area will need to be removed (refer to section 9.10.6). As such a large proportion of the 0.3ha of this LR within the Project site would be removed as part of the site clearance prior site formation and construction works. It is also noted that a seedling of Aquilaria sinensis has been identified within this area. This involves the felling of approximately 41 trees within this LR. However, owing to the small scale (2.11%) that this represents in terms of area relative to the overall area of this resource within the Study Area, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.1.2.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the same area of the LR as described above will have been removed to accommodate the proposed channel improvement works. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.1.3 SSNV-LR9 Urban / residential area

9.10.1.3.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.4 ha of residential area within the Project site would be incorporated into the site works area, with some of the area to be excavated to accommodate channel enlargement and re-alignment during construction works. This however would only involve the felling of 2 trees. However, given the small overall proportion of the resource affected (only 0.62% of the resource within the study area), the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.1.3.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, a proportion of the area of the LR will have been removed to accommodate the proposed realigned drainage channel although some areas will be reinstated as footbridge, footpaths and such-like. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.2. Impacts on Landscape Resources before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within the Project site) – Tai Wo

9.10.2.1 TW-LR5 – Water Courses

9.10.2.1.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire area of the existing watercourse (<0.1ha) within the Project boundary would be removed or modified as part of the site clearance prior to the channel formation and construction works. This will also involve the felling of 6 trees within this LR. In terms of area this represents around 3.7% of this LR within the study area and as such the magnitude of change is considered to be intermediate and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate / substantial adverse.

9.10.2.1.2 During the operation phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, most of the area will be reinstated as a functioning drainage channel and therefore the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.2.2 TW-LR7 – Grassland

9.10.2.2.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.1 ha of grassland within the Project site would be removed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This will also involve the felling of 6 trees within this LR. Since this area represents only 0.53% of the extent of this LR within the Study Area, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.2.2.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, a large proportion of the LR within the site area will have been removed to accommodate the proposed the new open channel. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.2.3 TW-LR12 Waste Ground

9.10.2.3.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.1 ha of waste ground within the Project site (1.63% of this LR within the Study Area) would be removed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This will also involve the felling of 11 trees (including 1 dead tree) within this LR. Most of the trees recorded within the site area are contained within this LR and, as noted in Section 9.10.6, around 77% of these trees will need to be removed to facilitate the works. However, since the overall proportion of this LR affected is small the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.2.3.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the entire area of the LR will have been replaced by the constructed open channel. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.2.4 TW-LR13 Urban / residential area

9.10.2.4.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.1 ha of residential area within the Project site would be incorporated into the site works area, with some of the area to be excavated to accommodate the buried section of the drainage improvement works. However there are no existing trees affected by these works and given the small overall proportion of the resource affected (only 0.26% of the resource within the study area) the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.2.4.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the area of this LR will have been reinstated above the buried sections of the drainage scheme. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

9.10.3. Impacts on Landscape Resources before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within the Project site) – Lin Fa Tei

9.10.3.1 LFT- LR4 – Water Courses

9.10.3.1.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.4ha of the existing watercourse within the Project boundary would be removed or modified as part of the site clearance prior to the channel formation and construction works. This will also involve the felling of 30 trees (including 3 dead trees) within this LR. In terms of area, this represents around 11.42% of this LR within the Study Area and as such the magnitude of change is considered to be large and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be substantial adverse.

During the operation phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, most of the area will be reinstated as a functioning drainage channel and therefore the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.3.2 LFT- LR8 – Secondary Woodland

9.10.3.2.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, a large proportion of the 0.1ha of this LR within the Project site would be removed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This will involve the felling of 9 trees (including 1 dead trees) within this LR. However, owing to the small proportion (1.47%) that this represents relative to the overall area of this resource within the Study Area, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the same area of the LR as described above will have been removed to accommodate the proposed drainage improvement works. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.3.3 LFT- LR10 Plantation

9.10.3.3.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.2 ha of plantation within the Project site would be removed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This will involve the felling of 10 trees (including 1 dead trees) within this LR. The magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the same area of the LR as described above will have been removed to accommodate the proposed drainage improvement works. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.3.4 LFT- LR11 Waste Ground

9.10.3.4.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.1 ha of waste ground within the Project site (0.21% of this LR within the Study Area) would be removed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This will also involve the felling of 1 tree within this LR. However, the overall proportion of this LR affected is small and therefore the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.3.4.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the entire area of the LR will have been replaced by the re-constructed channel and associated elements. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.3.5 LFT- LR12 Urban / residential area

9.10.3.5.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.4 ha of residential area within the Project site would be incorporated into the site works area, with some of the area to be excavated to accommodate channel enlargement and re-alignment during construction works. This will also involve the felling of 7 trees within this LR. However, given the small overall proportion of the resource affected (only 0.57% of the resource within the study area), the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.3.5.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, a proportion of the area of the LR will have been removed to accommodate the proposed realigned drainage channel although some areas will be reinstated as footbridge, footpaths and such-like. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.4. Impacts on Landscape Resources before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within the Project site) – Ha Che

9.10.4.1 HC- LR3 – Water Courses

9.10.4.1.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.4ha of the existing watercourse within the Project boundary would be removed or modified as part of the site clearance prior to the channel formation and construction works. This will involve the felling of 128 trees (including 12 dead trees) within this LR. This represents around 16% of the area of this LR within the Study Area and as such the magnitude of change is considered to be large and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be substantial adverse.

During the operation phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, most of the area will be reinstated as a functioning drainage channel and therefore the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.4.2 HC- LR9 Plantation

9.10.4.2.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the works will also involve the felling of 5 trees within this LR. 76% of the tree within the site area will need to be removed (refer to Section 9.10.6). As such a large proportion of the 0.1ha of this LR within the Project site would be removed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. However, owing to the small proportion (0.61%) that this represents relative to the overall area of this resource within the Study Area, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.4.2.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the same area of the LR as described above will have been removed to accommodate the proposed channel improvement works. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.4.3 HC- LR11 Urban / residential area

9.10.4.3.1 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.3 ha of residential area within the Project site would be incorporated into the site works area, with some of the area to be excavated to accommodate channel enlargement and re-alignment during construction works. This will also involve the felling of 3 trees within this LR. However, given the small overall proportion of the resource affected (only 0.39% of the resource within the Study Area), the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.4.3.2 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, a proportion of the area of the LR will have been removed to accommodate the proposed realigned drainage channel although some areas will be reinstated as footbridge, footpaths and such-like. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.10.5. Impacts on Landscape Resources before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (outside the Project Boundary)

All other LRs within the Study Areas at the four sites are located entirely outside the Project boundary and will not be affected by the works. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project boundary would be negligible, and need not be assessed as the impact significance will be insubstantial.

9.10.6. Impact on existing trees

9.10.6.1 Impact of existing trees: Sung Shan New Village

In terms of the impact on existing trees, the table below summarises the preliminary proposals for tree felling and compensatory tree planting associated with the proposed works.

Table 9.10.1 Summary of tree impacts at Sung Shan New Village

Approximate Number of trees within site area boundary	91
Approximate Number of trees to be retained (within site area boundary)	15
Approximate Number of trees to be compensated (within/ outside site area boundary)	76
Approximate Number of trees to be felled (within site area boundary)	76

9.10.6.2 Impact of existing trees: Tai Wo

In terms of the impact on existing trees, the table below summarises the preliminary proposals for tree felling and compensatory tree planting.

Table 9.10.2 Summary of tree impacts at Tai Wo

Approximate Number of trees within site area boundary	23
Approximate Number of trees to be retained (within site area boundary)	0
Approximate Number of trees to be compensated (within/ outside site area boundary)	23
Approximate Number of trees to be felled (within site area boundary)	23

9.10.6.3 Impact of existing trees: Lin Fa Tei

In terms of the impact on existing trees, the table below summarises the preliminary proposals for tree felling and compensatory tree planting.

Table 9.10.3 Summary of tree impacts at Lin Fa Tei

Approximate Number of trees within site area boundary	58
Approximate Number of trees to be retained (within site area boundary)	1
Approximate Number of trees to be compensated (within/ outside site area boundary)	57
Approximate Number of trees to be felled (within site area boundary)	57

9.10.6.4 Impact of existing trees: Ha Che

In terms of the impact on existing trees, the table below summarises the preliminary proposals for tree felling and compensatory tree planting.

Table 9.10.4 Summary of tree impacts at Ha Che

Approximate Number of trees within site area boundary	152
Approximate Number of trees to be retained (within site area boundary)	16
Approximate Number of trees to be compensated (within/ outside site area boundary)	136
Approximate Number of trees to be felled (within site area boundary)	136

9.10.6.5 Many of the trees recommended for retention are located at the periphery of the Project sites and so these trees will be protected throughout the construction phase of the Project. None of the affected trees are Champion Trees (identified in the book ‘Champion Trees in Urban Hong Kong’) or Old and Valuable Trees (OVT) (DEVB TCW No. 5/2020 Registration and Preservation of Old and Valuable Trees). The majority of the affected trees are common native Hong Kong species, self-sown and weed tree species, some fruit trees and exotic and common amenity and exotic species associated with village developments. The condition of the existing trees ranges from poor to fair. Amenity value ranges from low to medium.

9.10.6.6 A tree preservation and removal proposal and compensatory planting proposal will be submitted in accordance with DEVB TCW No. 4/2020 -Tree Preservation during the detailed design stage under separate submission.

9.10.6.7 Where possible, implementation of compensatory planting should be of a ratio not less than 1:1 in terms of number within the sites as far as possible. The exact location of compensatory trees will be further studied in the detail design stage and is to be agreed with related government departments before implementation. Sufficient space will be provided for the planting of compensatory trees with the consideration of minimum space required to allow for full establishment and healthy growth to maturity of the trees.

9.10.7. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within and outside the Project Site) – Shun Sang New Village

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.5.

9.10.7.1 SSNV-LCA03 Sung Shang Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

9.10.7.1.1 This LCA covers an area of approximately 29.29 ha and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as medium. Approximately 1.02 ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site and will form part of the proposed upgrading works.

9.10.7.1.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the loss of 1.02 ha of this LCA within the drainage improvement works area represents approximately 3.48% of the total area of the LCA. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.7.1.3 During the operational phase, the channel which forms a key part of this valley landscape LCA will have been reinstated to a modified design prior to the implementation of mitigation measures. The modification of this small part of the overall LCA area would result in a small magnitude of change and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.7.1.4 All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e. SSNV-LCA01 Tai Shu Ha Channelised River Corridor Landscape, SSNV-LCA02 Yao Chao Po / Shui Tsui Lo Wan Rural Residential Landscape, LCA04 Sung Shang Valley Agricultural Village Landscape, SSNV-LCA05 Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape and SSNV-LCA06 Upland Fringe Woodland Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

Table 9.10.5 Significance of Landscape Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Sung Shan New Village

LR / LCA ID

Landscape Resource / Landscape Character Area

Sensitivity (Low, Medium, High) [1]

Total Area of LR/LCA (Approx. ha)

Affected Area (Approx. Ha) (Affected %)

Magnitude of Impact Before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1][4]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [2] [3] [4]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, substantial) [3][4]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

Landscape Resources (within project boundary)

SSNV- LR3

Water Courses

High

3.4ha

0.4ha (17.39%)

Large

small

Substantial

Moderate

CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM07, OM08, OM09

Moderate

slight

insubstantial

SSNV- LR7

Plantation

High

14.2ha

0.3ha (2.11%)

Small

Small

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, OM01, OM03, OM05, OM06, OM08

Moderate

slight

insubstantial

SSNV- LR9

Urban / residential area

Low

63.6ha

0.4ha (0.62%)

small

small

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM05, CM06, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Insubstantial / slight

insubstantial

insubstantial

Landscape Character Areas (extending into project boundary)

SSNV- LCA03

Sung Shan Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

Medium

29.29ha

1.02ha (3.48%)

small

small

Slight

Slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08, OM09

Slight

insubstantial

insubstantial

[1] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to the Magnitude of Impact are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[2] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to LR and LCA sensitivity are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[3] All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated

[4] Not applicable to LRs outside the Project Site.

9.10.8. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within and outside the Site) – Tai Wo

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.6.

9.10.8.1 TW- LCA03 Tai Wo/Cheung Po Village Landscape

9.10.8.1.1 This LCA has a medium sensitivity to change and occupies an area of some 34.84ha extending beyond the Project Site. Approximately 0.15 ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site.

9.10.8.1.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.15ha of the LCA would be occupied as part of the site clearance prior to excavation and construction works. This represents approximately 0.43% of the LCA as a whole although there will also be indirect impacts on the character of the remaining areas. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.8.1.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the entire area will be reinstated above the installed buried sections of the drainage scheme. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

9.10.8.2 TW- LCA07 Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape

9.10.8.2.1 This LCA has a high sensitivity to change and occupies an area of some 11.25 ha in the central portion of the Study Area. Approximately 0.07ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site and will be permanently converted to form the proposed works.

9.10.8.2.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the 0.07 ha of the LCA within the Site Area would be changed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This represents approximately 0.62% of the LCA as a whole although there will also be a very limited indirect impact on the character of the remaining area. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.10.8.2.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the loss of this small part of the overall LCA area to the constructed area of open drainage channel would result in a small magnitude of change and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e. TW-LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape, TW-LCA02 Transport Infrastructure Corridor Landscape, TW-LCA04 Rural Village Landscape, TW-LCA05 – Rural Agricultural Landscape, TW-LCA06 – Urban Fringe Grassland Landscape, TW-LCA08 – Shrubby Grassland Foothills Landscape, and TW-LCA 09 – Upland Woodland Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

Table 9.10.6 Significance of Landscape Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Tai Wo

LR / LCA ID

Landscape Resource / Landscape Character Area

Sensitivity (Low, Medium, High) [1]

Total Area of LR/LCA (Approx. ha)

Affected Area (Approx. Ha) (Affected %)

Magnitude of Impact Before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1][4]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [2] [3] [4]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, substantial) [3][4]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

Landscape Resources (within project boundary)

TW-LR5

Water Courses

High

2.7ha

<0.1ha (3.70%)

Intermediate

small

Moderate / substantial

Moderate

CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM07, OM08

Moderate

slight

insubstantial

TW-LR7

Grassland

High

18.8ha

0.1ha (0.53%)

small

small

Slight

Slight

CM03, CM04, CM08, OM01, OM03, OM05, OM06, OM08

Slight

Slight

Slight

TW-LR12

Waste Ground

Low

6.1ha

0.1ha (1.63%)

small

small

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM05, OM06, OM08

Insubstantial / slight

slight

slight

TW-LR13

Urban / residential area

Low

37.7ha

0.1ha (0.26%)

small

Negligible

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM05, CM06, CM07,CM08 OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial

insubstantial

Landscape Character Areas (extending into project boundary)

TW- LCA03

Tai Wo/Cheung Po Village Landscape

Medium

34.84ha

0.15ha (0.43%)

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

TW- LCA07

Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape

High

11.25ha

0.07ha (0.62%)

Small

Small

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08

Moderate

Slight / moderate

Slight

[1] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to the Magnitude of Impact are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[2] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to LR and LCA sensitivity are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[3] All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated

[4] Not applicable to LRs outside the Project Site.

9.10.9. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within and outside the Project Site) – Lin Fa Tei

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.7.

9.10.9.1 LFT- LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape

9.10.9.1.1 This LCA has a medium sensitivity to change and occupies an area of some 3.87 ha extending beyond the Project Site. Approximately 0.02ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site.

9.10.9.1.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.02ha of the LCA within Project Area would be occupied as part of the site clearance prior to the excavation and construction works. This represents approximately 0.51% of the LCA as a whole although there will also be indirect impacts on the character of the remaining areas. As such the Magnitude of Change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight.

9.10.9.1.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the affected area of the LCA would be largely reinstated as part of the connected drainage infrastructure of the area. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.9.2 LFT- LCA02 Rural Village Landscape

9.10.9.2.1 This LCA has a medium sensitivity to change and occupies an area of some 37.73 ha extending beyond the Project Site. Approximately 0.41ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site and impacted by the proposed works.

9.10.9.2.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the entire 0.41ha of the LCA within the site Area would be occupied and partly removed as part of the site clearance prior to the channel formation and construction works. This represents approximately 1.08% of the LCA as a whole although there will also be indirect impacts on the character of the remaining areas. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight.

9.10.9.2.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, much of the area would be reinstated to a similar disposition as the existing channel areas that constitute a component part of this LCA. Therefore, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight.

9.10.9.3 LFT-LCA03 Rural Residential Infill Landscape

9.10.9.3.1 This LCA has a high medium sensitivity to change and occupies an area of some 5.92ha in the central portion of the Study Area. Approximately 0.33 ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site and will be permanently converted to form the proposed works.

9.10.9.3.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, part of the LCA within the Site Area would be changed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This represents approximately 5.57% of the LCA as a whole although there will also be a very limited indirect impact on the character of the remaining area. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight.

9.10.9.3.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the loss of this small part of the overall LCA area would be result in a small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight.

9.10.9.4 LFT-LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape

9.10.9.4.1 This LCA covers an area of approximately 45.95 ha and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as medium. Approximately 0.02 ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site.

9.10.9.4.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the loss of 0.02 ha of the LCA within the proposed drainage improvement works area represents approximately 0.04% of the total area of the LCA. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

9.10.9.4.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, this small area of LCA would largely be reinstated above the buried drainage channel works resulting in a negligible magnitude of change and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

9.10.9.5 LFT-LCA06 Urban Fringe Landscape

9.10.9.5.1 This LCA covers an area of approximately 39.17 ha and the sensitivity of this LCA to change is assessed as medium. Approximately 0.56 ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site and will be permanently converted to form the proposed works

9.10.9.5.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the loss of 0.56 ha of the LCA within the proposed drainage improvement works area represents approximately 1.42% of the total area of the LCA. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.9.5.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the loss of this small part of the overall LCA area would result in a small magnitude of change and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.10.9.5.4 All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e. LFT-LCA04 Rural Industrial Landscape and LFT-LCA07 Foothills Woodland Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

Table 9.10.7 Significance of Landscape Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Lin Fa Tei

LR / LCA ID

Landscape Resource / Landscape Character Area

Sensitivity (Low, Medium, High) [1]

Total Area of LR/LCA (Approx. ha)

Affected Area (Approx. Ha) (Affected %)

Magnitude of Impact Before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1][4]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [2] [3] [4]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, substantial) [3][4]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

Landscape Resources (within project boundary)

LFT- LR4

Water Courses

High

3.5ha

0.4ha (11.42%)

Large

Small

Substantial

Moderate

CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM07, OM08, OM09

Moderate

slight

insubstantial

LFT- LR8

Secondary Woodland

High

6.8ha

0.1ha (1.47%)

Small

Small

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, OM01, OM03, OM05, OM06, OM08,

Moderate

Moderate / slight

Insubstantial

LFT- LR10

Plantation

Medium

19.6ha

0.2ha (1.02%)

Small

Small

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, OM01, OM03, OM05, OM06, OM08,

Moderate

Moderate / slight

Insubstantial

LFT- LR11

Waste Ground

Low

47.5ha

0.1ha (0.21%)

Small

Small

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM05, OM06, OM08

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

LFT- LR12

Urban / residential area

Low

69.9ha

0.4ha (0.57%)

Small

Small

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM05, CM06, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Landscape Character Areas (extending into project boundary)

LFT- LCA01

Channelised River Corridor Landscape

Medium

3.87ha

0.02ha (0.51%)

Small

Small

Slight

Slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LFT- LCA02

Rural Village Landscape

Medium

37.73ha

0.41ha (1.08%)

Small

Small

Slight

Slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LFT- LCA03

Rural Residential Infill Landscape

Medium

5.92ha

0.33ha (5.57%)

Small

Small

Slight

Slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LFT- LCA05

Rural Agricultural Landscape

Medium

45.95ha

0.02ha (0.04%)

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

LFT- LCA06

Urban Fringe Landscape

Medium

39.17ha

0.56ha (1.42%)

Small

Small

Slight

Slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

[1] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to the Magnitude of Impact are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[2] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to LR and LCA sensitivity are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[3] All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated

[4] Not applicable to LRs outside the Project Site.

9.10.10. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (within and outside the Project Site) – Ha Che

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.8.

9.10.10.1 HC- LCA03 Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

9.10.10.1.1 This LCA has a low sensitivity to change and occupies an area of some 28.16 ha extending beyond the Project Site. Approximately 0.15 ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site and will and will be modified as part of the drainage improvement works.

9.10.10.1.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the loss of 0.15 ha of this LCA within the drainage improvement works area represents approximately 0.53% of the total area of the LCA. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial /slight.

9.10.10.1.3 During the operational phase, the channel which forms part of this valley landscape LCA will have been reinstated to a largely similar design prior to the implementation of mitigation measures. The modification of this small part of the overall LCA area would result in a small magnitude of change and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight.

9.10.10.2 HC-LCA04 Ha Che Valley Village Landscape

9.10.10.2.1 This LCA has a medium sensitivity to change and occupies an area of some 50.31 ha in the southern and central portion of the Study Area. Approximately 0.68 ha of this LCA lies within the Project Site where the existing drainage channel which forms a part of this character area will be upgraded as part of the drainage improvement works.

9.10.10.2.2 During the construction phase before mitigation, the 0.68 ha of the LCA within the Project Area would be changed as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works. This represents approximately 1.35% of the LCA as a whole although there will also be a very limited indirect impact on the character of the immediate surrounding areas. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight.

9.10.10.2.3 During the operational phase, prior to the implementation of mitigation measures, the reconfiguration of this small part of the overall LCA area would result in a small magnitude of change and the impact significance before mitigation is considered to be slight.

9.10.10.2.4 All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e.HC-LCA01 Fan Kam Road Corridor Landscape, HC-LCA02 Institutional Campus Landscape, HC-LCA05 Foothills Woodland Landscape, HC-LCA06 Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape, HC-LCA07 Urban Fringe Waste Ground Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

Table 9.10.8 Significance of Landscape Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Ha Che

LR / LCA ID

Landscape Resource / Landscape Character Area

Sensitivity (Low, Medium, High) [1]

Total Area of LR/LCA (Approx. ha)

Affected Area (Approx. Ha) (Affected %)

Magnitude of Impact Before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1][4]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [2][3][4]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, substantial) [3][4]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

Landscape Resources (within project boundary)

HC- LR3

Water Courses

High

2.5ha

0.4ha (16.0%)

Large

Small

Substantial

Moderate

CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM07, OM08, OM09

Moderate

slight

insubstantial

HC- LR09

Plantation

High

16.3ha

0.1ha (0.61%)

Small

Small

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, OM01, OM03, OM05, OM06, OM08,

Moderate

Moderate / Slight

Insubstantial

HC- LR11

Urban / residential area

Low

75.8ha

0.3ha (0.39%)

Small

Small

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM05, CM06, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Landscape Character Areas (extending into project boundary)

HC- LCA03

Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

Low

28.16ha

0.15ha (0.53%)

Small

Small

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial / slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Insubstantial / slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

HC-LCA04

Ha Che Valley Village Landscape

Medium

50.31ha

0.68ha (1.35%)

Small

Small

Slight

Slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

[1] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to the Magnitude of Impact are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[2] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the Project contributing to LR and LCA sensitivity are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each LR and LCA

[3] All impacts are adverse unless otherwise stated

[4] Not applicable to LRs outside the Project Site.

9.11 Visual Impact Assessment

The magnitude of change for the identified VSRs is described in Tables 9.11.1 to 9.11.4 and the potential visual impacts during the construction and operation phases, before and after mitigation, are described below and in Tables 9.11.5 to 9.11.8.

9.11.1. Visual Impacts before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases - Sung Shan New Village

The predicted impacts during the construction and operation phases of the project in the absence of mitigation are as follows.

9.11.1.1 SSNV-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village

The road and pedestrian footpath extend towards the north western end of the scheme, however the site area is a little distance from the road and views are partially screened by intervening vegetation. Therefore, given the nature of the view and the viewing distance (minimum 22m), these VSRs have a low sensitivity to change. These VSRs will experience a small magnitude of impact during the construction stage and a negligible impact during the operation stage. This will result in insubstantial / slight adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.1.2 SSNV-VSR 2 Pedestrians using channel footbridge

Pedestrians experience a close transient view of the scheme from the vantage point of a footbridge crossing over the proposed channel works area. Whilst there is some existing vegetation, including occasional trees which lend the area a naturalistic feel, the general condition of the channel structure is degraded. On implementation of the scheme, these structural elements will be reinstated to a relatively similar disposition. These VSRs have a medium sensitivity to change and are rated as an intermediate magnitude of impact during construction due to the proximity of the works and the installation of temporary noise barriers at this location during the construction stage. However as illustrated on Figure 9.21, owing to the similarity in disposition of the constructed scheme to the existing channel arrangement a small magnitude of change is assessed at the operation stages. The channel location and vertical sided profile remains similar to the existing situation, with the orientation of the pedestrian bridge and the addition of channel side safety railings the main changes to the visual composition. Owing to the low profile of the railings the magnitude of change is considered small. As such this results in moderate adverse and slight adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.1.3 SSNV-VSR 3 Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road

The access road to the open storage and industrial facilities on the southern western side of the channel follow the channel corridor, with views contained by existing channel side tree planting. There is dense tree and shrub planting on the northern side of the river which contains views within the channel corridor and the channel forms a natural meandering profile with a natural stream bedding. As such these VSRs have a high sensitivity to change and will experience an intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages. As such this results in moderate adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.1.4 SSNV-VSR 4 Residents of properties along Sung Shan New Village access road

The views available to the small number of village houses are over a short extent of the channel, where its meandering course brings it close to the main road through Sung Shan New Village. Views are partially interrupted and framed to the north and south by existing tree growth and village development. The views for these residential VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a small magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stage. This will result in slight adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.1.5 SSNV-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road

Despite being the main access route through the valley, views are limited to small section of the road with views filtered by existing riverside trees. Therefore despite being relatively close to the channel, these transient VSRs have a medium sensitivity to change. As illustrated in Figure 9.24, whilst one side of the existing channel has a vertical constructed appearance there is an abundance of existing vegetation along the other side of the channel which creates a verdant green edge to the adjacent road corridor. Whilst the reconstructed channel is similarly located to the existing channel, the removal of vegetation and the installation of railings along the reconstructed channel walls creates a more engineered appearance. As such the magnitude of change is considered intermediate in both the construction and operation stages. As such the rebuilding of the channel will results in moderate adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.1.6 SSNV-VSR 6 Smallholdings south of existing channel

The views available to a small number of small holdings to the south of the river are enclosed to the north by mature riverside trees and the edges of Sang Shan New Village. The views for these residential VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience an intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages due to the proximity to the channel enhancement proposals. This will result in moderate / substantial adverse and moderate visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.1.7 SSNV-VSR 7 Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village

The few pedestrians using this crossing point experience a close transient view of the scheme from the vantage point of a narrow footbridge located towards the southern end of the site area. There is an abundance of existing grassy riverside and channel vegetation which creates a verdant, rural scene. Consequently these VSRs are considered to have a high sensitivity to change and will experience a large and intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively. As illustrated in Figure 9.27 the channel profile is changed to a more engineered form and safety railings are mounted on the top of the channel side walls which although relatively low in profile do emphasis the engineered alignment of the channel, which stands in contrast to the vegetated surroundings. Based on the assessed sensitivity and magnitude of change this results in substantial adverse and moderate / substantial adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.1.8 SNV-VSR 8 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing.

The views for vehicle travelers and pedestrians are largely contained within the channel corridor due to a combination of the existing land form, its covering of dense tree growth and some low rise roadside buildings and structures. Views extend west north-west at a distance of 30m towards the southern end of the scheme. Views restricted by planting and riverside structures. The views available to these VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a small and negligible magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively due to the limited nature of the views. This will result in slight adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.2. Visual Impacts before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases – Tai Wo

The predicted impacts during the construction and operation phases of the project in the absence of mitigation are as follows.

9.11.2.1 TW-VSR 1 Residents of Tai Wo (south east)

These views, from a distance of 39m over an open landscape of valley grassland, are framed by intermittent streamside trees to the south and plantation to the north. Whilst a single infrastructure related building in visible in the distance the overall impression is remote and rural. As such these VSRs have a high sensitivity to change. During construction a 3m high temporary noise barriers shall be erected at the end of the channel closest to these VSRs however owing to the viewing distance and relatively small extent of this structure the magnitude of change from the direction of this VSR is rates as intermediate. On completion of construction a small magnitude of impact is anticipated during the operation stage due to the viewing distance and relatively small scale of the proposed drainage structures to be built. This will result in moderate/substantial and moderate visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.2.2 TW-VSR 2 Walkers on hillside water catchment drainage channel

These views are elevated and panoramic extending over the valley landscape at a distance of 396m. The dense tree coverage close to the hillside footpath from the vicinity of the VSR does much to screen views towards the open valley below, whilst the proposed small drainage development will be viewed against a backdrop of the existing village development. During construction temporary noise barriers shall be erected at three locations however owing to the viewing distance, intervening vegetation and relatively small extent of these structure only a small section at the eastern end of the channel is considered potentially visible. Similarly on completion of construction a negligible magnitude of impact during the operation stage is anticipated due to the viewing distance and relatively small scale of the proposed drainage structures to be built. Given the nature of the view, these VSRs have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a small and negligible magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively. This will result in slight adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.2.3 TW-VSR 3 Residents of Tai Wo (south)

These views are glimpsed views of the open channel portion of the scheme within the valley grassland area. Views are partially interrupted by intermittent growth of trees within the valley floor landscape, which currently comprises a verdant rural scene. However, as these VSRs are residential, they have a high sensitivity to change and will experience a small magnitude of impact during the construction. However, the impact in the operation stage will be negligible. This will result in slight adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.2.4 TW-VSR 4 Residents of Tai Wo (south west)

These will be largely screened by intervening vegetation in views out from the south western part of the village. These VSRs are residential and are rated to have a high sensitivity to change. However, views are contained within the existing vegetation framing an existing narrow footpath. During construction temporary noise barriers installed at the end of the channel are anticipated to be screened by intervening vegetation and these VSRs are rated to experience a small magnitude of impact during the construction. Due to the limited view and small scale of the works the impact in the operation stage will be negligible. This will result in slight adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.2.5 TW-VSR 5 Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po

These views are from a narrow footpath within a relatively remote and possibly infrequently used footpath which nevertheless runs in close proximity to the proposed open channel portion of the scheme. As these VSRs experience low level panoramic views towards the wooded uplands to the south of the Study Area, they have a high sensitivity to change and will experience an intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages due to the presence of the proposals. This will result in moderate / substantial adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.2.6 TW-VSR 6 Residents of Cheung Po village (south east)

The existing views are over open ground towards the wooded uplands to the south. However, views of the proposed scheme are largely interrupted due to the dense growth of trees within the valley floor landscape and some 74m from the development site. As such they have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a negligible magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages due to the presence of the proposals on the horizon of the edge of the valley. This will result in insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.2.1 TW-VSR 7 Pedestrians on West Rail overbridge to east of site

The existing slightly elevated views are over the valley towards the wooded uplands to the east. However views of the proposed scheme are largely interrupted due to the dense growth of trees within the valley floor landscape and some 92m from the development site. As such they have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a negligible magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages due to the presence of the proposals on the horizon of the edge of the valley. This will result in insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures

9.11.3. Visual Impacts before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases – Lin Fa Tei

9.11.3.1 LFT-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road

These views are transient and focused on the drainage channel which runs parallel to the road verge over a distance of 200m along Kam Sheung Road. There are mature trees within the roadside verge which help create an attractive road corridor through this urban area. Some of these trees will be affected by the proposed works. Given the nature of the view, these VSRs have a high sensitivity to change but will experience an intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages due to the proximity and tree impacts of the proposals and the installation of temporary noise barriers at this location during the construction stage. This will result in moderate / substantial adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.2 LFT-VSR 2 Pedestrians on Footpath between Lin Fa Tei and Kam Sheung Road

Pedestrians using this footpath will have a full view of the proposed site across an existing areas of waste ground within the urban area. The views available to these VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience an intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction stage due to the close proximity of the proposed works and the requirement for 3m height noise barriers proposed along a large extent of the channel edge boundary. However, during the operation stage negligible magnitude of impact is anticipated due to disturbed nature of the existing environment and the similarity of the proposed works to the existing channel configuration. This will result in moderate adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.3 LFT-VSR 3 Residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway

Vehicular traffic entering the parking area at the Village entrance gate and pedestrians using this access to Lin Fa Tei will have a full view of the proposed site at the edge of the entrance space. The views available to these VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience an intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction stage due to the close proximity of the proposed works and the requirement for 3m height noise barriers proposed along a large extent of the channel edge boundary. However, during the operation stage negligible magnitude of impact is anticipated due to the small scale of the proposed channel works and the similarity of the proposed works to the existing channel configuration. This will result in moderate adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.4 LFT-VSR 4 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Tsan Tin access road

This road is used by local residents who have a partial view of the proposed channel works at a distance of 21m across an existing area of open ground. These VSRs have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a small magnitude of impact during the construction stage due to distance from the proposed works, the intermittent screening by intervening trees and viewing of temporary structures such as proposed 3m height noise barriers against a backdrop of existing boundary structures and buildings. During the operation stage negligible magnitude of impact is anticipated due to distance from the proposed works and their intermittent screening by intervening trees and vegetation. This will result in slight adverse and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.5 LFT-VSR 5 Residents of Lin Fa Tei Riverside

The existing residential views are into a relatively enclosed urban space with the existing channel running through its centre. Full views at close proximity are experienced by the surrounding village houses which overlook this area. As such they have a high sensitivity to change and will experience a large magnitude of impact during construction due to the tight configuration of this shared village space and the installation of temporary noise barriers on both sides of the channel during the construction works. A small magnitude of impact is then predicted during operation stage due to similar nature of the proposed works with the existing channel and the absence of any tree impacts on the visual quality at this location. This will result in substantial and moderate visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.6 LFT-VSR 6 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei

The existing crossing is located within a relatively enclosed urban space with the existing channel running through its centre. Full views at close proximity are experienced by the vehicles and pedestrians. As such they have a high sensitivity to change and will experience a large magnitude of impact during construction due to the tight configuration of this shared village space and the installation of temporary noise barriers on both sides of the channel during the construction works. A small magnitude of impact during operation stage. This will result in substantial and moderate visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.7 LFT-VSR 7 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (Central)

The existing views are over open ground towards the wooded uplands to the south. However, views of the proposed scheme are partially interrupted due to the clusters of existing trees and intervening vegetation. As such they have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a small and negligible magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively. This will result in slight and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.8 LFT-VSR 8 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West)

These are close views limited to a small number of the houses at the south eastern edge of the settlement. These residents have high sensitivity to change but will experience a large magnitude of impact during the construction stage due to the necessary demolition and site formation works the installation of temporary noise barriers at one side of the channel. A small magnitude of impact during the operation stage due to the similarity of the proposed reconfigured channel with to the disposition of the existing water course. This will result in substantial and moderate adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.3.9 LFT-VSR 9 Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei

Although used by very few local residents, the footpath affords close views of the verdant river channel set within a rural part of the landscape. Owing to the proximity of the viewing position to the proposed scheme and the high quality of the view, pedestrians have a high sensitivity to change. These VSRs will experience a large and intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively due to proximity of the proposed scheme to the south east and the installation of temporary noise barriers on the northern side of the site during the construction stage. This will result in substantial and Moderate / substantial adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4. Visual Impacts before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases – Ha Che

9.11.4.1 HC-VSR 1 Pedestrians on industrial area access path

This footpath may be used by workers at the adjacent light industrial / open storage concerns who have a low sensitivity to change. These VSRs will experience an intermediate and small magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively due to proximity of the proposed works to the footpath edge and the impact of removal of existing vegetation from the composition of the views. This will result in slight / moderate adverse visual impacts and insubstantial / slight visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.2 HC-VSR 2 Residents of village houses north of Shui Kan Shek

These village houses have slightly elevated views across the valley floor towards the development site at a distance of 106m. These views are partially interrupted by the mature woodland along the channel edges and the perimeter fences of open storage and light industrial facilities which channel views to a small section of the channel area viewed over existing disturbed ground. As such these VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a small and negligible magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively due to the distance and limited view. This will result in slight and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.3 HC-VSR 3 Pedestrians on footpath from Fan Kam Road to Shui Kan Shek

The existing crossing is located within an enclosed urban space between property boundary walls and fence and is a direct route connecting village residents and pedestrians with Fan Kam Road. Full views at close proximity are experienced by pedestrians for a short section of this access path. As such they have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience an intermediate magnitude of impact during construction and operation stages due to the removal of some existing channel side trees and vegetation and the installation of temporary noise barriers on the eastern side of the site during the construction stage. This will result in moderate visual impacts during the construction and operation phases before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.4 HC-VSR 4 Residents of village houses at south of Shui Kan Shek

The views available to a small number of village houses at the southern edge of the village are largely screened by existing trees and vegetation which forms a pleasant gateway space at the village entrance. The views for these residential VSRs are considered to have a high sensitivity to change and will experience a large and intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively due to the proximity of the proposals and the impact on some existing vegetation. This will result in substantial adverse and moderate/ substantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.5 HC-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road

These views are experienced crossing over the channel on a bridge / culvert structure at the margins of the village area. The views for these VSRs are considered to have a high sensitivity to change and will experience a large and intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively due to the proximity of the proposals and the impact on some existing trees lining the existing channel and the installation of temporary noise barriers on the eastern side of the site during the construction stage. This will result in substantial adverse and moderate/ substantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.6 HC-VSR 6 Residents of village houses at north of Chuk Hang

The views available to a small number of village houses at the northern edge of the village are close to the channel but partially screened by existing trees and vegetation and set against a backdrop of existing light industrial development. The views for these residential VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change and will experience a large and intermediate magnitude of impact during the construction and operation stages respectively due to the proximity of the proposals and the impact on some existing vegetation and the installation of temporary noise barriers on both sides of the site during the construction stage. This will result in moderate/ substantial and moderate visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.7 HC-VSR 7 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road

The views for vehicle travellers and pedestrians are available from a small length of the road which follows a straight course through the existing urban area and is lined with existing mature tree planting. The views for these VSRs are considered to have a high sensitivity to change and will experience an large magnitude of impact during the construction stage due to the associated works, plant and equipment which will need to be deployed at the highly visible urban location and the installation of temporary noise barriers on the western side of the site during the construction stage. During the operation stage, VSRs will however experience a small magnitude of impact due to similarity of the proposed construction with the existing arrangement of railings, bridges, channels and culverts. This will result in substantial and moderate adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.8 HC-VSR 8 Residents of Ha Che bordering Fan Kam Road

The views available to a small number of village houses at the western side of Fan Kam Road are partially screened by existing trees and vegetation which forms a pleasant gateway space to the residential areas. The views for these residential VSRs are considered to have a high sensitivity to change and will experience a large magnitude of impact during the construction stage due to the associated works, plant and equipment which will need to be deployed at prominent roadside location. During the operation stages VSRs will however experience a small magnitude of impact due to similarity of the proposed construction with the existing arrangement of railings, bridges, channels and culverts. This will result in substantial and moderate adverse visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

9.11.4.9 HC-VSR 9 Residents of Ha Che (south east).

The views available to a small number of village houses towards the southern edge of the site area and are largely screened by existing trees and vegetation. The views for these residential VSRs are considered to have a medium sensitivity to change due to the availability of alternative views. The VSRs will experience an small magnitude of impact during the construction stage due to the removal of some vegetation for demolition and site formation works and the installation of temporary noise barriers on margins of the channel during the construction stage. A negligible magnitude of impact is anticipated during the operation stage due to the similarity of the proposed channel construction to the existing watercourse structure. This will result in slight and insubstantial visual impacts during the construction and operation phases respectively before the implementation of mitigation measures.

Magnitude of Change in Views for VSRs for each villages are shown in Tables 9.11.1 to Table 9.11.4. Significance of visual impact in construction and operation phases are shown in Tables 9.11.5 to 9.11.8.

Table 9.11.1 Magnitude of Change in Views for VSRs- Sung Shan New Village

VSR ID	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	Compatibility of Project with Surroundings (High, Medium, Low, Negligible)	Scale of Development (Large, Medium, Small, Negligible	Reversibility of Change (Yes, No)	Minimum Viewing Distance (Metres)	Duration of Impacts (Short, Medium, Long)		Degree of Visibility (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View)		Magnitude of Change (Small, Intermediate, Large)
						Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation
SSNV- VSR1	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village	High	Small	No	22	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible
SSNV- VSR2	Pedestrians using channel footbridge	High	Medium	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Small
SSNV- VSR3	Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road	Medium	Medium	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Intermediate
SSNV- VSR4	Residents of properties along Sung Shan New Village access road	High	Small	No	89	Short	Long	Partial	Partial	Small	Small
SSNV- VSR5	Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road	Medium	Small	No	4	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Intermediate	Intermediate
SSNV- VSR6	Smallholdings south of existing channel	Medium	Medium-Large	No	11	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Intermediate
SSNV- VSR7	Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village	Medium	Large	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Intermediate
SSNV- VSR8	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing	Medium	Negligible	No	30	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible

Table 9.11.2 Magnitude of Change in Views for VSRs – Tai Wo

VSR ID	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	Compatibility of Project with Surroundings (High, Medium, Low, Negligible)	Scale of Development (Large, Medium, Small, Negligible	Reversibility of Change (Yes, No)	Minimum Viewing Distance (Metres)	Duration of Impacts (Short, Medium, Long)		Degree of Visibility (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View)		Magnitude of Change (Small, Intermediate, Large)
						Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation
TW-VSR 1	Residents of Tai Wo (south east)	Low	Small	No	39	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Intermediate	Small
TW-VSR 2	Walkers on hillside water catchment drainage channel	Medium	Negligible	No	396	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible
TW-VSR 3	Residents of Tai Wo (south)	Low	Small	No	85	Short	Long	Glimpsed	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible
TW-VSR 4	Residents of Tai Wo (south west)	Low	Small	No	51	Short	Long	Glimpsed	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible
TW-VSR 5	Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po	Low	Small	No	3	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Intermediate
TW-VSR 6	Residents of Cheung Po village (south east)	Low	Negligible	No	74	Short	Long	Glimpsed	No View	Negligible	Negligible
TW-VSR 7	Pedestrians on West Rail overbridge to east of site	Medium	Negligible	No	92	Short	Long	Glimpsed	No View	Negligible	Negligible

Table 9.11.3 Magnitude of Change in Views for VSRs – Lin Fa Tei

VSR ID	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	Compatibility of Project with Surroundings (High, Medium, Low, Negligible)	Scale of Development (Large, Medium, Small, Negligible	Reversibility of Change (Yes, No)	Minimum Viewing Distance (Metres)	Duration of Impacts (Short, Medium, Long)		Degree of Visibility (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View)		Magnitude of Change (Small, Intermediate, Large)
						Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation
LFT- VSR1	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road	Medium	Small	No	8	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Intermediate
LFT- VSR2	Pedestrians on Footpath between Lin Fa Tei and Kam Sheung Road	High	Small	No	2	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Negligible
LFT- VSR3	Residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway	High	Small	No	1	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Negligible
LFT- VSR4	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Tsan Tin access road	Medium	Small	No	21	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible
LFT- VSR5	Residents of Lin Fa Tei Riverside	High	Medium	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Small
LFT- VSR6	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei	High	Medium	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Small
LFT- VSR7	Residents of Lin Fa Tei (Central);	Medium	Small	No	38	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible
LFT- VSR8	Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West)	Medium	Medium	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Small
LFT- VSR9	Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei	Low	Large	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Intermediate

Table 9.11.4 Magnitude of Change in Views for VSRs – Ha Che

VSR ID	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSRs)	Compatibility of Project with Surroundings (High, Medium, Low, Negligible)	Scale of Development (Large, Medium, Small, Negligible	Reversibility of Change (Yes, No)	Minimum Viewing Distance (Metres)	Duration of Impacts (Short, Medium, Long)		Degree of Visibility (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View)		Magnitude of Change (Small, Intermediate, Large)
						Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation	Construction	Operation
HC- VSR 1	Pedestrians on industrial area access path	High	Small	No	4	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Small
HC- VSR 2	Residents of village houses north of Shui Kan Shek	Medium	Small	No	106	Short	Long	Partial	Glimpsed	Small	Negligible
HC- VSR 3	Pedestrians on footpath from Fan Kam Road to Shui Kan Shek	Medium	Medium	No	4	Short	Long	Full	Full	Intermediate	Intermediate
HC- VSR 4	Residents of village houses at south of Shui Kan Shek	Medium	Medium	No	43	Short	Long	Partial	Partial	Large	Intermediate
HC- VSR 5	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road	Medium	Medium	No	7	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Intermediate
HC- VSR 6	Residents of village houses at north of Chuk Hang	Medium	Medium	No	0	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Intermediate
HC- VSR 7	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road	Medium	Medium	No	2	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Small
HC- VSR 8	Residents of Ha Che bordering Fan Kam Road	Medium	Medium	No	21	Short	Long	Full	Full	Large	Small
HC- VSR 9	Residents of Ha Che (south east)	Medium	Small	No	44	Short	Long	Partial	Partial	Small	Negligible

Table 9.11.5 Significance of Visual Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Sung Shan New Village

VSR ID

Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)

Receptor Sensitivity and Number (Low, Medium, High) (Very Few, Few, Many, Very Many) [2]

Degree of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View) / Min Distance between VSR and nearest Source(s) of Impact [1]

Magnitude of Impact before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

SSNV- VSR1

Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village

Low Few

Low Few

Partial

Glimpsed

Small

Negligible

Insubstantial / Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM03, CM06, CM07, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM08

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

SSNV- VSR2

Pedestrians using channel footbridge

Medium Few

Medium Few

Full

Full

Intermediate

Small

Moderate

Slight

CM01, CM03, CM06, CM09,OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07,OM08, OM09

Moderate

Insubstantial

Slight Beneficial

SSNV- VSR3

Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road

High Few

High Few

Full

Full

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM03, CM06, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06,OM08, OM09

Moderate

Slight / Moderate

Slight

SSNV- VSR4

Residents of properties along Sung Shan New Village access road

Medium Few

Medium Few

Partial

Partial

Small

Small

Slight

Slight

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07,OM08, OM09

Slight / Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

SSNV- VSR5

Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road

Medium Many

Medium Many

Partial

Glimpsed

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07,OM08, OM09

Slight / Moderate

Slight / Moderate

Slight

SSNV- VSR6

Smallholdings south of existing channel

Medium Very Few

Medium Very Few

Full

Full

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate / Substantial

Moderate

CM01, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07,OM08, OM09

Slight / Moderate

Slight / Moderate

Slight

SSNV- VSR7

Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village

High Very Few

High Very Few

Full

Full

Large

Intermediate

Substantial

Moderate / Substantial

CM01, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09 OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07,OM08, OM09

Slight / Moderate

Slight / Moderate

Slight

SSNV- VSR8

Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing

Medium Few

Medium Few

Partial

Glimpsed

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM07, OM01, OM03

Slight / Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

[1] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the project contributing to the Magnitude of Impact are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each VSR

[2] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the project contributing to VSR sensitivity are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each VSR

[3] All impacts are negative unless otherwise stated

Table 9.11.6 Significance of Visual Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Tai Wo

VSR ID

Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)

Receptor Sensitivity and Number (Low, Medium, High) (Very Few, Few, Many, Very Many) [2]

Degree of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View) / Min Distance between VSR and nearest Source(s) of Impact [1]

Magnitude of Impact before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

TW–VSR 1

Residents of Tai Wo (south east)

High Very Few

High Very Few

Partial

Glimpsed

Intermediate

Small

Moderate / substantial

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Slight / Moderate

Slight

Insubstantial

TW–VSR 2

Walkers on hillside water catchment drainage channel

Medium Very Few

Medium Very Few

Partial

Glimpsed

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Insubstantial / Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

TW–VSR 3

Residents of Tai Wo (south)

High Few

High Few

Glimpsed

Glimpsed

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Slight

Slight

Insubstantial

TW–VSR 4

Residents of Tai Wo (south west)

High Very Few

High Very Few

Glimpsed

Glimpsed

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

TW–VSR 5

Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po

High Very Few

High Very Few

Full

Full

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate / substantial

Moderate / substantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Moderate / substantial

Slight / Moderate

Slight

TW–VSR 6

Residents of Cheung Po village (south east)

Medium Few

Medium Few

Glimpsed

No View

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, OM01, OM03

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

TW–VSR 7

Pedestrians on West Rail overbridge to east of site

Medium Few

Medium Few

Glimpsed

No View

Negligible

Negligible

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, OM01, OM03

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

[1] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the project contributing to the Magnitude of Impact are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each VSR

[2] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the project contributing to VSR sensitivity are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each VSR

[3] All impacts are negative unless otherwise stated

Table 9.11.7 Significance of Visual Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Lin Fa Tei

VSR ID	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)	Receptor Sensitivity and Number (Low, Medium, High) (Very Few, Few, Many, Very Many) [2]			Degree of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View) / Min Distance between VSR and nearest Source(s) of Impact [1]			Magnitude of Impact before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1]			Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]			Recommended Mitigation Measures		Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]
		Construction	Operation	Construction		Operation	Construction		Operation	Construction		Operation			Construction		Operation
																	Day 1	Year 10
LFT-VSR1	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road	High Many	High Many	Full		Full	Intermediate		Intermediate	Moderate / substantial		Moderate / substantial	CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08		Moderate / substantial		Slight / Moderate	Insubstantial
LFT-VSR2	Pedestrians on Footpath between Lin Fa Tei and Kam Sheung Road	Medium Few	Medium Few	Full		Full	Intermediate		Negligible	Moderate		Insubstantial	CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08		Slight / Moderate		Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LFT-VSR3	Residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway	Medium Many	Medium Many	Full		Full	Intermediate		Negligible	Moderate		Insubstantial	CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08		Slight / Moderate		Slight Beneficial	Slight / Moderate Beneficial
LFT-VSR4	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Tsan Tin access road	Medium Few	Medium Few	Partial		Glimpsed	Small		Negligible	Slight		Insubstantial	CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, CM07, OM08, CM09		Slight		Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LFT-VSR5	Residents of Lin Fa Tei Riverside	High Few	High Few	Full		Full	Large		Small	Substantial		Moderate	CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, CM07, OM08		Moderate		Slight Beneficial	Slight / Moderate Beneficial
LFT-VSR6	Vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei	High Many	High Many	Full		Full	Large		Small	Substantial		Moderate	CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, CM07, OM08		Moderate		Slight Beneficial	Slight / Moderate Beneficial
LFT-VSR7	Residents of Lin Fa Tei (Central);	Medium Few	Medium Few	Partial		Glimpsed	Small		Negligible	Slight		Insubstantial	CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09		Insubstantial / Slight		Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LFT-VSR8	Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West)	High Very Few	High Very Few	Full		Full	Large		Small	Substantial		Moderate	CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM07, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09		Moderate		Slight	Insubstantial

Table 9.11.7 (Continue) Significance of Visual Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Lin Fa Tei

VSR ID	Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)	Receptor Sensitivity and Number (Low, Medium, High) (Very Few, Few, Many, Very Many) [2]			Degree of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View) / Min Distance between VSR and nearest Source(s) of Impact [1]			Magnitude of Impact before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1]			Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]			Recommended Mitigation Measures		Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]
		Construction	Operation	Construction		Operation	Construction		Operation	Construction		Operation			Construction		Operation
																	Day 1	Year 10
LFT-VSR9	Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei	High Very Few	High Very Few	Full		Full	Large		Intermediate	Substantial		Moderate / substantial	CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09		Moderate / Substantial		Moderate	Slight / Moderate

[1] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the project contributing to the Magnitude of Impact are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each VSR

[2] Detailed description of the other key aspects of the project contributing to VSR sensitivity are provided in the written descriptions of impacts for each VSR

[3] All impacts are negative unless otherwise stated

Table 9.11.8 Significance of Visual Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Ha Che

VSR ID

Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)

Receptor Sensitivity and Number (Low, Medium, High) (Very Few, Few, Many, Very Many) [2]

Degree of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View) / Min Distance between VSR and nearest Source(s) of Impact [1]

Magnitude of Impact before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

HC-VSR 1

Pedestrians on industrial area access Path

Low Very Few

Low Very Few

Full

Full

Intermediate

Small

Slight / Moderate

Insubstantial / Slight

CM01, CM03, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06,, OM08,

Slight

Slight Beneficial

Slight Beneficial

HC-VSR 2

Residents of village houses north of Shui Kan Shek

Medium Few

Medium Few

Partial

Glimpsed

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM03, CM06, CM07,CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06,, OM08

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

HC-VSR 3

Pedestrians on footpath from Fan Kam Road to Shui Kan Shek

Medium Few

Medium Few

Full

Full

Intermediate

Intermediate

Moderate

Moderate

CM01, CM03, CM04,CM06, CM07,CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06,, OM08

Slight / Moderate

Slight

Slight Beneficial

Table 9.11.8 (continue) Significance of Visual Impacts in Construction and Operational Phases – Ha Che

VSR ID

Visually Sensitive Receiver (VSR)

Receptor Sensitivity and Number (Low, Medium, High) (Very Few, Few, Many, Very Many) [2]

Degree of Visibility of Source(s) of Visual Impact (Full, Partial, Glimpsed, No View) / Min Distance between VSR and nearest Source(s) of Impact [1]

Magnitude of Impact before Mitigation (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large) [1]

Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Recommended Mitigation Measures

Residual Impact Significance after Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial) [3]

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Construction

Operation

Day 1

Year 10

HC-VSR 4

Residents of village houses at south of Shui Kan Shek

High Few

High Few

Partial

Partial

Large

Intermediate

Substantial

Moderate / Substantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Moderate / Substantial

Slight / Moderate

Slight Beneficial

HC-VSR 5

Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road

High Few

High Few

Full

Full

Large

Intermediate

Substantial

Moderate / Substantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Moderate / Substantial

Slight / Moderate

Slight Beneficial

HC-VSR 6

Residents of village houses at north of Chuk Hang

Medium Very Few

Medium Very Few

Full

Full

Large

Intermediate

Moderate / Substantial

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Moderate

Slight / Moderate

Slight / Insubstantial

HC-VSR 7

Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road

High Very Many

High Very Many

Full

Full

Large

Small

Substantial

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM08

Moderate

Slight

Slight / Insubstantial

HC-VSR 8

Residents of Ha Che bordering Fan Kam Road

High Few

High Few

Full

Full

Large

Small

Substantial

Moderate

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Moderate

Slight / Moderate

Slight / Insubstantial

HC-VSR 9

Residents of Ha Che (south east)

Medium Few

Medium Few

Partial

Partial

Small

Negligible

Slight

Insubstantial

CM01, CM02, CM03, CM04, CM06, CM07,CM08, CM09, OM01, OM02, OM03, OM04, OM05, OM06, OM07, OM08, OM09

Slight

Insubstantial

Insubstantial

9.12 Visual Enhancement and Landscape Mitigation Measures

Mitigation measures are proposed to minimise impacts on the landscape and visual amenity of the area within the visual envelope. These measures include the consideration of a number of development options and the provision of mitigation measures to directly offset unavoidable impacts. The measures include strategies for reducing, offsetting and compensating impacts during construction and operation phases. They are identified in Tables 9.12.1 and 9.12.2.; illustrated in Figures 9.14 to 9.16; Figures 9.42 to 9.43; Figures 9.71 to 9.75 and Figures 9.110 to 9.113; and discussed further below.

9.12.1. Recommended Mitigation Measures

9.12.1.1 The assumption has been made in the assessment that all mitigation proposals in this assessment are practical and achievable within the known parameters of funding, implementation, management and maintenance. The suggested agents for the funding and implementation (and subsequent management and maintenance, if applicable) are also indicated in Tables 9.12.1 and Table 9.12.2.

Table 9.12.1 Proposed Visual Enhancement and Landscape

Mitigation Measures – Construction Phase

ID No.	Visual Mitigation Measures	Funding Agency	Implementation Agency	Management Agency	Maintenance Agency
CM01	Tree Protection and Preservation	DSD	Contractor	Contractors during construction
	Trees / woodland within the Project Site which are unaffected by the works shall be protected and preserved during the construction phase. The tree preservation proposals shall be coordinated with the layout and design of the engineering and architectural works at detailed design stage for further retention of individual trees. The preservation of existing tree shall provide instant greening and screening effect for proposed works.
CM02	Offsite Compensatory Tree Planting	DSD	Contractor	Contractor during construction.
	If removal of trees is unavoidable due to construction impacts, trees will be compensated where technically feasible. Owing to the constricted nature of the site boundary, if all planting opportunities within the site have been utilised, offsite planting locations / planting locations outside the site boundary may be considered, which can be planted at an earlier stage of the works.
CM03	Works Area and Temporary Works Areas (Good Site Practice)	DSD	Contractor	Contractors during construction
	The construction sequence and construction programme shall be optimized in order to minimize the duration of impact. Construction site controls shall be enforced including the storage of materials, and the location and appearance of site accommodation and site storage. The site office or temporary above-ground structures shall be sited in locations which are not visually prominent.

Table 9.12.1 Proposed Visual Enhancement and Landscape

Mitigation Measures – Construction Phase

ID No.	Visual Mitigation Measures		Funding Agency	Implementation Agency		Management Agency	Maintenance Agency
CM04	Advance Implementation of Mitigation Planting		DSD	Contractor		Contractor during construction.
	Replanting of existing / disturbed vegetation shall be undertaken as soon as technically feasible.
CM05	Coordination with Concurrent Projects		DSD	Contractor		N/A
	Coordinated implementation programme with concurrent projects to minimise impacts and where possible reduce the period of disturbance.
CM06	Decorative Screen Hoarding		DSD	Contractor		Contractors during construction
	Decorative screen hoarding will be erected along areas of the construction works site boundary where the works site borders publically accessible routes and/or is close to visually sensitive receivers (VSRs) to screen undesirable views of the works site. It is proposed that the screening be compatible with the surrounding environment and where possible, non-reflective, recessive colours be used.
CM07	Light Control		DSD	Contractor		Contractors during construction
	Construction and night time lighting glare will be controlled to minimize glare impact to adjacent VSRs during the construction stage. This is considered a general measure for good practice.
CM08	Topsoil reuse		DSD	Contractor		Contractors during construction
	Excavated topsoil should be conserved for re-use by the Project or other projects. This is considered a general measure for good site practice.
CM09	Channel Bed Translocation	DSD			Contractor	Contractors during construction
	Excavated natural stream bedding should be conserved for re-use by the Project. This is considered a general measure for promoting sustainability and ecological continuity.

9.12.1.2 A series of measures have been incorporated in the urban design and landscape design concepts of the proposed works to avoid or reduce unacceptable visual impacts, including control of extent of excavation, provision of greening and open space at key locations, aesthetic design of bridges and railings etc. Some of the visual mitigation measures are also landscape mitigation measures, such as trailing greening and climbing plants for retaining walls, and the provision of tree and shrub planting.

Table 9.12.2 Proposed Visual Enhancement and Landscape

Mitigation Measures – Operational Phase

ID No.	Visual Mitigation Measures	Funding Agency	Implementation Agency	Management Agency	Maintenance Agency
OM01	Detailed Design Considerations	DSD	Designer / Consultants	N/A
	Detailed design of development components should reduce landscape footprint and visibility of structures. The area allowed for necessary structures should be reduced to a practical minimum.
OM02	Aesthetically Pleasing Design	DSD	Designer / Consultants	N/A
	The form, textures, finishes and colours of the proposed works components should be compatible with the existing surroundings. Light earthy tone colours such as shades of green, shades of grey, shades of brown and off- white may be utilised where technically feasible to reduce the visibility of the development components, including all roadwork, buildings and noise barriers etc. To further improve visual amenity, natural building materials such as stone and timber, should be preferably adopted for architectural features, where technically feasible.
OM03	Responsive Design of Channel alignments	DSD	Designer / Consultants	N/A
	The proposed use of a responsive design for the disposition of the main elements of the proposed drainage scheme including the routing of the channel to enable the preservation of significant landscape elements, such as large trees and the development of aesthetic treatments in response to the urban context within which the projects are to be implemented. The disposition and height profile of the developments and above ground utilities structures to respond to the existing context particularly the existing landform and preserved trees. Proposals designed to minimise the single use of space for functional and utility purposes and promote integrated design solutions. Create a subtle transition at the edges of the sites to enhance the sense of visual integration with the existing context and avoid abrupt transitions between the existing and proposed built environment.
OM04	Design of Engineering Structures	DSD	Designer / Consultants	N/A
	The design of the proposed Engineering Structures such as the proposed retaining culverts and footbridges should pay particular attention to the appearance and construction methods. The detailed design landscape consultants shall work in unison with the engineers on the aesthetic aspects of the structures and their relationship with the landscape. Planting would be used wherever possible to minimise the apparent height of structures and to soften their appearance in medium and long distance views. The design of engineering structures shall avoid any unnecessary visual clutter; this would be achieved through the co-ordination of the various engineering disciplines involved to arrive at integrated design solutions.
OM05	Design of Retaining Walls and Channel Embankments	DSD	Designer / Consultants	N/A
	The proposed treatment of Retaining Wall and Slopes will be undertaken in accordance with GEO Publication No. 1/2000 "Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment and Bio-engineering for Man-made Slopes and Retaining Walls" as well as DSD Practice Note No. 1/2015 Guidelines on Environmental and Ecological Considerations for River Channel Design. These engineering structures will be aesthetically enhanced through the use of soft landscape works including tree and shrub planting to give man-made slopes a more natural appearance blending into the local rural landscape. Whip sized tree planting is preferred on the face of soil cut slopes. The smaller, younger plant stock will adapt to their new growing conditions more quickly than larger sized stock and establish a naturalistic effect more rapidly. Larger sized tree stock shall be missed with whip sized trees to create a more diverse woodland structure enhance the screening effect from day one. Hydroseeding will be applied on slope has a gradient more than 30 degree.
OM06	Compensatory Planting Proposals at Channel edges	DSD	Contractor	DSD and other government departments
	All compensatory planting of trees is to be carried out in accordance with ETWB TCW No. 10/2013. A total woodland compensation area of 5.54 ha is proposed. The planting proposals will utilise native species. Some compensatory shrub and ground cover planting will also be provided within the channel edge area to create more structurally diverse woodland and a layered vegetated edge to the watercourse.
OM07	Channel bed and embankment toe greening	DSD	Contractor	DSD and other government departments
	Develop practical greening and ecological enhancements in accordance with DSD Practice Note No. 1/2015 Guidelines on Environmental and Ecological Considerations for River Channel Design.
OM08	Channel edge planting, Vertical and trailing Greening	DSD	Contractor	DSD and other government departments
	Planting of shrubs and groundcovers along the edges of channels to soften the transition between the new structures and the surrounding landscape. Adoption of native or ornamental planting mixes to suit the existing landscape context. Utilisation of vertical planting to soften the hard, vertical surfaces of the proposed works components. These components will include walls of the proposed culverts and retaining walls. Planting to utilise climbing and trailing plants. Location and extent of vertical greening subject to detailed design.
OM09	Green Paving	DSD	Contractor	DSD and other government departments
	Where technically feasible utilise a green paving approach such as grasscrete or grass-grid to maximise the area of planting and reduce the area of hard paving. Location and extent of green paving subject to detailed design.

9.12.2. Mitigation Planting

9.12.2.1 The planting of trees forms an important part of the landscape and visual mitigation strategy. Approximately 292 nos. new trees will be planted as compensation of the trees recommended for felling and part of the mitigation. A list of species appropriate for mitigation planting is provided in Section 9.12.3 below. The planting list is subject to specialist design and investigation at the detailed design stage to maintain a suitable ecological enhancement plant community. The planting will comprise principally of native trees and shrubs selected for their ecological value to the area. The proposed mitigation planting will use a combination of whip / light standard and heavy standard sized trees subject to design function and commercial availability.

9.12.2.2 At Tai Wai and Sang San New Village, the provisional mitigation proposals accommodate the provision of 1:1 compensation by number relative to these locations. At Ha Che, due to the tight nature of the project area the scheme provides less than 1:1 compensation by number at this location, although it should be noted that compensation is provided by additional provision at Lin Fa Tei in order to compensate for this shortfall. As such, taken together the four villages are able to compensate for tree felling associated with the drainage improvement works at a compensation ratio of 1:1.

9.12.3. Outline Mitigation Planting Proposals – Indicative Species

9.12.3.1 Whilst the project areas tend to be contained within a relatively narrow corridor, there are a variety of potential planting and greening opportunities associated with the proposed works. Greening can be accommodated within the channel, at the channel bed riparian zone and also on the channel embankments or side slopes. There are also spaces along the channel edges, between external property boundaries and the channel wall or embankment edge where terrestrial there is space for tree and shrub planting to help compensate for vegetation loss and mitigate the visual impact of the schemes.

Naturalistic Mass planting for Channel Edged (OM06, OM08)

9.12.3.2 This planting is intended to a mix of native planting along channel edges which provides a woodland structure of trees, understorey shrubs and groundcovers/trailing plants for habitat enhancement and general greening effect. An outline list of species which would be suited to achieving the above landscape objectives are provided as follows:

Table 9.12.4 Indicative Mitigation Planting – Naturalistic Channel edges

List of Suitable Trees

Botanical Name	Chinese Name	Growth Habit
Cleistocalyx nervosum	水翁	Tree
Ficus fistulosa	水同木	Tree
Ficus subpisocarpa	筆管榕	Tree
Hibiscus tiliaceus	黃槿	Tree or Shrub
Ilex rotunda var. microcarpa	小果鐵冬青	Tree
Liquidambar formosana	楓香	Tree
Litsea glutinosa	潺槁樹	Tree
Litsea monopetala	假柿木薑子	Small Tree
Mallotus paniculatus	白楸	Tree or Shrub
Phyllanthus emblica	油甘子	Tree or Shrub
Pongamia pinnata	水黃皮	Tree
Sapindus saponaria	無患子	Tree
Sapium sebiferum	烏桕	Tree
Saurauia tristyla	水東哥	Small Tree
Schefflera heptaphylla	鴨腳木	Tree
Sterculia lanceolata	假蘋婆	Semi-deciduous Tree

List of Suitable Shrubs

Botanical Name	Chinese Name	Growth Habit
Camellia oleifera	油茶	Small Tree
Eurya chinensis	米碎花	Shrub
Maesa perlarius	鯽魚膽	Shrub
Melastoma malabathricum	野牡丹	Shrub
Melastoma sanguineum	毛稔	Shrub
Polyspora axillaris	大頭茶	Shrub or Small Tree
Psychotria asiatica	山大刀	Tree or Shrub
Rhaphiolepis indica	石斑木	Shrub
Rhodomyrtus tomentosa	崗棯	Shrub
Rhododendron simsii	紅杜鵑	Shrub

List of Suitable Herbs and Groundcovers

Botanical Name	Chinese Name	Growth Habit
Alocasia odora	海芋	Herb
Artemisia indica Willd.	五月艾	Groundcover
Dicranopteris pedata	芒萁	Herb
Wedelia prostrata	滷地菊	Groundcover

The above list would form the basis for the planting proposals although exact uses and combinations of species would be subject to site specific design considerations.

Ornamental Planting for Ornamental Channel Edges (OM06, OM08)

9.12.3.3 This planting is intended to provide some decorative effect and a more managed appearance within urban sections of the drainage courses. These should be common, low maintenance amenity species suited to urban conditions. Whilst the exact species selection would also be designed to relate to any existing amenity planting in particular village areas. An outline list of species which would be suited to achieving the above landscape objectives are provided as follows:

Table 9.12.5 Indicative Mitigation Planting – Ornamental Channel edges

List of Suitable Trees

Botanical Name	Chinese Name	Growth Habit
Aquilaria sinensis	土沉香	Tree
Bauhinia purpurea	紅花羊蹄甲	Tree
Bischofia javanica	秋楓	Tree
Castanopsis fissa	黧蒴錐	Tree
Cinnamomum camphora	樟樹	Tree
Cleistocalyx operculatus	水翁	Tree
Elaeocarpus chinensis	中華杜英	Tree
Ficus microcarpa	細葉榕	Tree
Ficus virens var. sublanceolata	黃葛樹	Tree
Gordonia axillaris	大頭茶	Tree
Ilex rotunda var. microcarpa	小果鐵冬青	Tree
Liquidambar formosana	楓香	Tree
Litsea cubeba	木薑子	Tree
Mallotus paniculatus	白梑	Tree
Reevesia thyrsoidea	梭羅樹	Tree

List of Suitable Shrubs

Botanical Name	Chinese Name	Growth Habit
Ficus microcarpa “Golden leaves”	黃金榕	Shrub
Gardenia jasminoides	梔子	Shrub
Ixora chinensis	龍船花	Shrub
Ligustrum sinense	山指甲	Shrub
Mussaenda pubescens	玉葉金花	Shrub
Rhapis excelsa	棕竹	Shrub

List of Suitable Low Shrubs, Herbs and Groundcovers

Botanical Name	Chinese Name		Growth Habit
Alternanthera sessilis	蓮子草	Groundcover
Asparagus cochinchinensis	天門冬		Groundcover
Desmodium styracifolium	金錢草		Groundcover
Ficus pumila	薛荔	Climber
Liriope spicata	山麥冬	Shrub
Nephrolepis hirsutula	毛葉腎蕨	Shrub
Wedelia chinensis	蟛蜞菊		Groundcover

The above list would form the basis for the planting proposals although exact uses and combinations of species would be subject to site specific design considerations.

Channel Bed Riparian Planting (forming part of OM07)

9.12.3.4 This planting is intended to provide some greening within the channel using native species adapted to the Riparian environment. An outline list of species which would be suited to achieving the above landscape objectives are provided as follows:

Table 9.12.6 Indicative Mitigation Planting – Channel Bed Riparian Planting

List of Suitable Herbs and Groundcovers

Botanical Name	Chinese Name	Growth Habit
Acorus gramineus	金錢蒲	Perennial Herb
Alopecurus aequalis	看麥娘	Herb
Bacopa monnieri	假馬齒莧	Herb
Callipteris esculenta	菜蕨	Herb
Coix laeryma-jobi	薏苡	Herb
Colocasia esculenta	芋	Herb
Commelina diffusa	節節草	Herb
Cyperus distans	疏穗莎草	Herb
Cyperus haspan	畦畔莎草	Herb
Cyperus iria	碎米莎草	Herb
Cyperus malaccensis	茳芏	Herb
Cyperus malaccensis var. brevifolius	短葉茳芏	Herb
Cyperus pilosus	毛軸莎草	Herb
Cyperus polystachyos	多枝扁莎	Herb
Drymaria cordata	荷蘭豆	Herb
Eclipta prostrata	鱧腸	Perennial Herb
Eleocharis geniculata	黑籽荸薺	Herb
Eleocharis ochrostachys	假荸薺	Herb
Equisetum debile	筆管草	Herb
Eriocaulon sexangulare	華南穀精草	Herb
Fimbristylis dichotoma	兩歧飄拂草	Herb
Fimbristylis subbispicata	雙穗飄拂草	Herb
Floscopa scandens	聚花草	Herb
Hygrophila salicifolia	水蓑衣	Biennial Herb
Impatiens chinensis	華鳳仙	Herb
Isachne globosa	柳葉箬	Perennial Herb
Juncus effusus	燈芯草	Herb
Leersia hexandra	李氏禾	Perennial Herb
Limnophila aromatica	紫蘇草	Herb
Lindernia anagallis	長蒴母草	Herb
Lobelia chinensis	半邊蓮	Perennial Herb
Ludwigia adscendens	水龍	Perennial Herb
Ludwigia hyssopifolia	草龍	Perennial Herb
Marsilea quadrifolia	田字草	Aquatic Herb
Oenanthe javanica	水芹	Perennial Herb
Panicum repens	鋪地黍	Perennial Herb
Paspalum distichum	雙穗雀稗	Perennial Herb
Paspalum longifolium	長葉雀稗	Perennial Herb
Pentasachme caudatum	石蘿藦	Perennial Herb
Philydrum lanuginosum	田蔥	Herb
Polygonum barbatum	毛蓼	Herb
Polygonum dichotomum	二歧蓼	Herb
Ranunculus sceleratus	石龍芮	Herb
Rotala rotundifolia	圓葉節節菜	Herb
Rumex trisetifer	長刺酸模	Herb
Sacciolepis indica	囊穎草	Herb
Sagittaria trifolia sub sp. leucopetala	慈姑	Herb
Schoenoplectus subulatus	鑽苞水蔥	Herb
Sphaerocaryum malaccense	稗藎	Herb
Xyris pauciflora	蔥草	Herb

The above list would form the basis for the planting proposals although exact uses and combinations of species would be subject to site specific design considerations.

Slope embankment Planting (OM05)

9.12.3.5 This planting is intended to provide green coverage to embankment areas and encourage some species diversity to these more visible areas. Whilst the areas of slopes would be hydro-seeded with a native grass mix to achieve a green coverage, other herbs and ground covers can also be added to the vegetation mix through either incorporation of their seeds within the hydro-seed mix or planting of sprigs within the grasscrete cells. Where natural soil embankments are possible, a wider range of shrubs and groundcovers may also be planted to soften the appearance of the channel edges.

An outline list of species which would be suited to achieving the above landscape objectives are provided as follows:

Table 9.12.7 Indicative Mitigation Planting – Slope Embankment Planting Mixes

List of Suitable Grass Species for Hydroseeding mix

Botanical Name	Chinese Name		Growth Habit
Cynodon dactylon	狗牙根		Herb
Eragrostis curvula	彎葉畫眉草		Herb
Eremochloa ophiuroides	假儉草		Herb
Paspalum distichum		雙穗雀稗	Perennial Herb
Paspalum longifolium		長葉雀稗	Perennial Herb
Paspalum scrobiculatum var. orbiculare		圓果雀稗	Perennial Herb

List of Suitable Herbs and Groundcovers for embankment planting

Botanical Name	Chinese Name	Growth Habit
Alocasia macrorrhizos	海芋	Perennial Herb
Apluda mutica	水蔗草	Perennial Herb
Arundinella nepalensis	石珍芒	Perennial Herb
Cyperus haspan	畦畔莎草	Herb
Cyperus iria	碎米莎草	Herb
Cyrtococcum patens	弓果黍	Herb
Derris trifoliate	魚藤	Climbing Shrub
Eurya chinensis	碎米花	Shrub
Ficus hirta	粗葉榕	Shrub or Small Tree
Ficus pyriformis	舶梨榕	Shrub
Ficus variolosa	變葉榕	Shrub or Small Tree
Gardenia jasminoides	梔子	Shrub
Glochidion hirsutum	厚葉算盤子	Shrub or Small Tree
Glochidion zeylanicum	香港算盤子	Shrub or Small Tree
Ilex asprella	梅葉冬青	Shrub
Ilex pubescens	毛冬青	Shrub
Kyllinga brevifolia	水蜈蚣	Herb
Lepidosperma chinense	鱗子莎	Herb
Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia	豹皮樟	Shrub
Melastoma dodecandrum	地菍	Diffuse Subshrub
Melastoma malabathricum	野牡丹	Shrub
Melastoma sanguineum	毛菍	Shrub
Pennisetum alopecurodies	狼尾草	Perennial Herb
Rhaphiolepis indica	石斑木	Shrub
Rhododendron simsii	紅杜鵑	Shrub
Rhodomyrtus tomentosa	崗棯	Shrub
Sacciolepis indica	囊穎草	Herb
Uvaria macrophylla	紫玉盤	Climbing Shrub
Wedelia prostrata	滷地菊	Herb

9.12.4. Programme and Funding of Implementation of Visual Enhancement and Landscape Mitigation Measures

The construction phase measures described in Table 9.12.1 will be adopted from the commencement of construction and will be in place throughout the entire construction period.

The operational phase measures listed in Table 9.12.2 shall be adopted during the detailed design, and be built as part of the construction works so that they are in place at the date of commissioning of the Project. However, it should be noted that the full effect of the soft landscape mitigation measures will not be realised for several years until planting matures.

The agencies responsible for the funding, implementation, management and maintenance of the mitigation measures are identified in Tables 12.1 and 12.2.

9.13 Residual Landscape Impact

9.13.1. Significance of Residual Landscape Impacts during Construction

The assessment assumes that the proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during construction described in Table 9.12.1 are fully implemented. The residual landscape impacts for the LRs are shown in Figure 9.17, Figure 9.44, Figures 9.76 to 9.77 and Figures 9.115 to 9.116 and the residual impacts on the LCAs are indicated in Figure 9.18, Figure 9.45, Figures 9.78 to 9.79 and Figures 9.117 to 9.118.

9.13.1.1 Impacts on Landscape Resources with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within the Project Site) – Sung Shan New Village

Impacts and mitigations in Sung Shan New Village are described in Table 9.10.5.

SSNV- LR3 Water Course

The works are proposed to be undertaken in sections and as such the removal of the entire 0.4 ha of Water Course within the Site Area as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works will be phased. In tandem with the other construction phase mitigation measures, the impact significance after mitigation to be reduced to moderate adverse.

SSNV – LR7 Plantation

The limited extent of the clearance of existing vegetation during the construction phase would leave the Project Site temporarily denuded of vegetation. There is little that can practically be done to mitigate the construction phase impacts. As such the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the resulting impact significance after mitigation to be moderate adverse.

SSNV – LR9 Urban Residential Area

The incorporation of a portion of this LR with the Improvement Works Site Area would result in a small magnitude of change. There is little that can be practically done to mitigate this impact during the construction phase and so the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.13.1.2 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Construction Phase (outside the Project Site) – Sung Shan New Village

All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project Site and will not be affected by the works. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.1.3 Impacts on Landscape Resources with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within the Project Site) – Tai Wo

Impacts and mitigations in Tai Wo are described in Table 9.10.6.

TW- LR5 Water Course

The works are proposed to be undertaken in sections and as such the removal of the entire area (<0.1 ha) of Water Course within the Site Area as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works will be phased. In tandem with the other construction phase mitigation measures, the impact significance after mitigation to be reduced to moderate adverse.

TW- LR7 Grassland

Given the small extent of the clearance of existing vegetation during the construction phase (0.1 ha of grassland within the Site Area), there is little that can be practically done to mitigate the construction phase impacts. As such the magnitude of change is considered to remain as small and the resulting impact significance after mitigation to be slight adverse.

TW- LR12 Waste Ground

The loss of the existing 0.1 ha of Waste Ground with the Site Works area as part of the site clearance would leave the Project Site temporarily denuded of vegetation. There is little can be practically done to mitigate this impact during the construction phase and so the magnitude of change is considered to remain as small and the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

TW- LR13 Urban / Residential Area

The incorporation of a portion of this LR with the improvement works Site Area would result in a small magnitude of change. There is little that can be practically done to mitigate this impact during the construction phase and so the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.13.1.4 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Construction Phase (outside the Project Site)-Tai Wo

All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project Site and will not be affected by the works. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.1.5 Impacts on Landscape Resources with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within the Project Site) – Lin Fa Tei

Impacts and mitigations in Lin Fa Tei are described in Table 9.10.7.

LFT-LR4 Water Course

The works are proposed to be undertaken in sections and as such the removal of the entire area (0.4 ha) of Water Course within the Site Area as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works will be phased. In tandem with the other construction phase mitigation measures, the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be reduced to moderate adverse.

LFT- LR8 Secondary Woodland

The limited extent of the clearance of existing vegetation during the construction phase would leave the parts of the Project Site temporarily denuded of vegetation. There is little that can practically be done to mitigate these construction phase impacts. As such the magnitude of change is considered to remain as small and the resulting impact significance after mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

LFT- LR10 Plantation

The limited extent of the clearance of existing vegetation during the construction phase would leave parts of the Project Site temporarily denuded of vegetation. There is little that can practically be done to mitigate these construction phase impacts. As such the magnitude of change is considered to remain as small and the resulting impact significance after mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

LFT- LR11 Waste Ground

The loss of the existing 0.1 ha of Waste Ground with the Site Works area as part of the site clearance would leave these parts of the Project Site temporarily denuded of vegetation. There is little can be practically done to mitigate this impact during the construction phase and so the magnitude of change is considered to remain as small and the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

LFT- LR12 Urban / Residential Area

The incorporation of a portion of this LR with the improvement works Site Area would result in a small magnitude of change. There is little that can be practically done to mitigate this impact during the construction phase and so the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.13.1.6 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Construction Phase (outside the Project Site) – Lin Fa Tei

All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project Site and will not be affected by the works. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.1.7 Impacts on Landscape Resources with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within the Project Site) – Ha Che

Impacts and mitigations in Ha Che are described in Table 9.10.8.

HC- LR3 Water Course

The works are proposed to be undertaken in sections and as such the removal of the entire 0.4 ha of Water Course within the Site Area as part of the site clearance prior to the site formation and construction works will be phased. In tandem with the other construction phase mitigation measures, the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be reduced to moderate adverse.

HC- LR09 Plantation

The limited extent of the clearance of existing vegetation during the construction phase would leave the parts of the Project Site temporarily denuded of vegetation. There is little that can practically be done to mitigate these construction phase impacts. As such the magnitude of change is considered to remain as small and the resulting impact significance after mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

HC- LR11 Urban / Residential Area

The incorporation of a portion of this LR with the improvement works Site Area would result in a small magnitude of change. There is little that can be practically done to mitigate this impact during the construction phase and so the impact significance after mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight adverse.

9.13.1.8 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Construction Phase (outside the Project Site)- Ha Che

All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project Site and will not be affected by the works. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.2. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within and outside the Project Site) – Shun Sang New Village

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.5.

9.13.2.1 SSNV- LCA03 Sung Shang Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

The loss of approximately 1.02 ha (3.48%) of this LCA which lies within the Project Site during the construction phase will have a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the scale and prominence of the works relative to the overall extent of this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.13.2.1.1 All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e. SSNV-LCA01 Tai Shu Ha Channelised River Corridor Landscape, SSNV-LCA02 Yao Chao Po / Shui Tsui Lo Wan Rural Residential Landscape, SSNV-LCA04 Sung Shang Valley Agricultural Village Landscape, SSNV-LCAL05 Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape and SSNV-LCAL06 Upland Fringe Woodland Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.3. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within and outside the Project Site)– Tai Wo

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.6.

9.13.3.1 TW- LCA03 Tai Wo/Cheung Po Village Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.15 ha (0.43%)of this LCA which lies within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.13.3.2 TW- LCA07 Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.07ha (0.62%) of this LCA which lies within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be moderate adverse.

9.13.3.2.1 All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e. TW-LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape, TW-LCA02 Transport Infrastructure Corridor Landscape, TW-LCA04 Rural Village Landscape, TW-LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape, TW- LCA06 Urban Fringe Grassland Landscape, TW-LCA08 Shrubby Grassland Foothills Landscape and TW-LCA 09 – Upland Wooded Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.4. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within and outside the Project Site) – Lin Fa Tei

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.7.

9.13.4.1 LFT- LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.02 ha (0.51%) of this LCA within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the very small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.13.4.2 LFT- LCA02 Rural Village Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.41 ha (1.08%) of this LCA within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.13.4.3 LFT- LCA03 Rural Residential Infill Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.33 ha (5.57%) of this LCA within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.13.4.4 LFT- LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.02 ha (0.04%) of this LCA within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the very small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA the magnitude of change is considered to be negligible and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

9.13.4.5 LFT- LCA06 Urban Fringe Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.56 ha (1.42%) of this LCA within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

9.13.4.5.1 All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e. LFT-LCA04 Rural Agricultural Landscape, LFT-LCA07 Foothills Woodland Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.5. Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Construction Phase (within and outside the Project Site) – Ha Che

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the proposed works are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.8.

9.13.5.1 HC-LCA03 Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.15 ha (0.53%) of this LCA within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial / slight.

9.13.5.2 HC- LCA04 Ha Che Valley Village Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.68 ha (1.35%) of this LCA within the Project Site during the construction phase gave a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse.

9.13.5.2.1 All other LCAs located within the Study Area (i.e. HC-LCA01 Fan Kam Road Corridor Landscape, HC-LCA02 Institutional Campus Landscape, HC-LCA05 Foothills Woodland Landscape, HC-LCA06 Shrubby Grassland Upland Landscape, HC-LCA07 Urban Fringe Landscape) are located entirely outside the Project Site and are remote from the works so will not be affected. The magnitude of change for those LRs outside the Project Site would be negligible, and need not be assessed for impact significance.

9.13.6. Significance of Residual Landscape Impacts during Operation

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during the operation phase are described in Tables 9.10.5 to 9.10.8. The residual impacts on the LRs during the operation phase are shown in Figure 9.17, Figure 9.44, Figures 9.76 to 9.77 and Figures 9.115 to 9.116 and the residual impacts on the LCAs are indicated in Figure 9.18, Figure 9.45, Figures 9.78 to 9.79 and Figures 9.117 to 9.118.

9.13.6.1 Impacts on Landscape Resources with Mitigation during the Operation Phase (within the Project Boundary) – Sung Shan New Village

SSNV- LR3 Water Course

The drainage improvement works will replace the existing partially degraded channel and meandering river course with a new engineered channel. However the mitigation works will include the reinstatement of natural river bedding at the centre of the new channel, riparian zone planting and vegetative treatments on embankment sections of the new channel. At Day 1, the planting will still be establishing. However, with the improved aesthetic treatments to retaining walls and other engineered structures, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse. At Year 10, with vegetation and habitats re-established, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

SSNV – LR7 Plantation

Despite the relatively tight site area, responsive design measures are proposed to retain several of the existing trees along the channel and site margins and to provide compensatory tree planting within newly provided planting areas achieving a 1:1 compensation ratio (in tree number terms). Given this approach, it is considered that the residual impact significance is slight adverse at Day 1 and, after a period of growth of the planted trees and shrubs, this would be reduced to insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

SSNV – LR9 Urban / Residential Area

Through the incorporation of aesthetically pleasing design features (including greening) and the sensitive design of engineering structures in relation to their landscape context, the reinstatement of improved urban features such as footpaths and bridges associated with the drainage proposals can help mitigate any slight losses in physical area due to channel realignment and enlargement within the urban area. Given this approach, it is considered that the residual impact significance is insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.2 Impacts on Landscape Resources with Mitigation during the Operation Phase (outside the Project Boundary) –Sung Shan New Village

All other LRs located within the Study Area (i.e. SSNV-LR1 Agricultural Land, SSNV-LR2 Pond, SSNV-LR4 Grassland, SSNV-LR5 Grassland / Shrubland, SSNV-LR6 Secondary Woodland, SSNV-LR8 Waste Ground and SSNV-LR9 Urban / Residential Area) are located entirely outside the Project boundary and will not be affected by the works. Therefore, there would be insubstantial impact on these LRs at Day 1 and Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.3 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Operation Phase (within the Project Site) – Tai Wo

TW- LR5 Water Course

The drainage improvement works will replace parts of the existing minor water course with a narrow concrete channel. However the existing watercourse is partially filled in places and resembles a swale more than a natural stream. As such the reinstatement of planting and trailing greenery along the edges of the channel is seen as an appropriate form of mitigation. At Day 1, the planting will still be establishing however the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse. At Year 10, with vegetation established, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

TW- LR7 Grassland

The proposed mitigation measures described in Table 9.10.5 include planting of trees and shrubs along the southern margin of the site adjoining the grassland areas (retained outside the site) as both landscape and visual mitigation measures. Whilst this form of mitigation is deemed more fitting to the landscape context, consequently there will not be space to mitigate for the loss of the existing 0.1 ha of grassland within the Project site. As such, with the general landscape mitigation measures in place, there will be a deficient in the area of this LR. Despite the proposed mitigation measures, there will be a residual impact significance of slight adverse at Day 1 and slight adverse at Year 10 of the operation phase.

TW- LR12 Waste Ground

Although direct mitigation for this impact is impracticable, the proposed planting of new trees and shrubs at the peripheries of the site will restore the area of visible greenery and integrate the proposed works within their landscape context. It may be argued that the proposed planting of trees and layered native vegetation is more valuable to the mitigation of impacts and appearance of the landscape and provide a better landscape quality than the existing Waste Ground. Nevertheless, with the general landscape mitigation measures in place, there will be a deficient in the area of this LR resulting in a residual impact significance of slight adverse at Day 1 and slight adverse at Year 10 of the operation phase.

TW- LR13 Urban / Residential Area

Since the works are buried and this landscape resource will be reinstated / made good, it is considered that the residual impact significance is insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.4 Impacts on Landscape Resources before Mitigation during the Construction and Operation Phases (outside the Project Site) -Tai Wo

All other LRs located within the Study Area (i.e. TW-LR1 Agricultural Land, TW-LR2 Pond, TW-LR3 Marsh, TW-LR4 Mitigation Wetland, TW-LR6 Seasonally Wet Grassland, TW-LR8 Grassland / Shrubland, TW-LR9 Secondary Woodland, TW-LR10 Orchard and TW-LR11 Plantation) are located entirely outside the Project boundary and will not be affected by the works. Therefore there would be insubstantial impact on these LRs at Day 1 and Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.5 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Operation Phase (within the Project Site) – Lin Fa Tei

LFT-LR4 Water Course

The drainage improvement works will replace the existing partially degraded channel and meandering river course with a new engineered channel. However, the mitigation works will include the reinstatement of natural river bedding at the centre of the new channel, riparian zone planting and vegetative treatments on embankment sections of the new channel. At Day 1, the planting will still be establishing. However, with the improved aesthetic treatments to retaining walls and other engineered structures, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse. At Year 10, with vegetation and habitats re-established, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

LFT- LR8 Secondary Woodland and LFT- LR10 Plantation

Despite the relatively tight site area, responsive design measures are proposed to retain several of the existing trees along the channel and site margins and to provide compensatory tree planting within newly provided planting areas achieving a 1:1 compensation ratio (in tree number terms). Given this approach, it is considered that the residual impact significance is moderate / slight adverse at Day 1 and, after a period of growth of the planted trees and shrubs, this would be reduced to insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

LFT- LR11 Waste Ground

Although direct mitigation for this impact is impracticable, the proposed planting of new trees and shrubs at the peripheries of the site will restore the area of visible greenery and integrate the proposed works within their landscape context. It may be argued that the proposed planting of trees and layered native vegetation is more valuable to the mitigation of impacts and appearance of the landscape and provide a better landscape quality than the existing Waste Ground. Nevertheless, with the general landscape mitigation measures in place, there will be a deficient in the area of this LR resulting in a residual impact significance of insubstantial / slight adverse at Day 1 and insubstantial / slight adverse at Year 10 of the operation phase.

LFT- LR12 Urban / Residential Area

Through the incorporation of aesthetically pleasing design features (including greening) and the sensitive design of engineering structures in relation to their landscape context, the reinstatement of improved urban features such as footpaths and bridges associated with the drainage proposals can help mitigate any slight losses in physical area due to channel realignment and enlargement within the urban area. Given this approach, it is considered that the residual impact significance is insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.6 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Operation Phase (outside the Project Site) – Lin Fa Tei

All other LRs located within the Study Area (i.e. LFT-LR1 Agricultural Land, LFT-LR2 Pond; LR3 Marsh, LFT-LR5 Seasonally Wet Grassland, LFT-LR6 Grassland, LFT-LR7 Grassland / Shrubland and LFT-LR9 Orchard) are located entirely outside the Project boundary and will not be affected by the works. Therefore there would be insubstantial impact on these LRs at Day 1 and Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.7 Impacts on Landscape Resources with Mitigation during the Operation Phase (within the Project Site) – Ha Che

HC- LR3 Water Course

The drainage improvement works will replace the existing partially degraded channel and meandering river course with a new engineered channel. However, the mitigation works will include the reinstatement of natural river bedding at the centre of the wider sections of the channel bed, riparian zone planting and vegetative treatments on embankment sections of the new channel. At Day 1, the planting will still be establishing. However, with the improved aesthetic treatments to retaining walls and other engineered structures, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse. AT Year 10, with vegetation and habitats re-established, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial.

HC- LR9 Plantation

Despite the relatively tight site area, responsive design measures are proposed to retain several of the existing trees along the channel and site margins and to provide compensatory tree planting within newly provided planting areas. Given this approach, it is considered that the residual impact significance is moderate / slight adverse at Day 1 and, after a period of growth of the planted trees and shrubs, this would be reduced to insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

HC- LR11 Urban / Residential Area

Through the incorporation of aesthetically pleasing design features (including greening) and the sensitive design of engineering structures in relation to their landscape context, the reinstatement of improved urban features such as footpaths and bridges associated with the drainage proposals can help mitigate any slight losses in physical area due to channel realignment and enlargement within the urban area. Given this approach, it is considered that the residual impact significance is insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.8 Impacts on Landscape Resources during the Operation Phase (outside the Project Site)- Ha Che

All other LRs located within the Study Area (i.e. HC-LR1 Agricultural Land, HC-LR2 Pond, HC-LR4 Grassland, HC-LR5 Grassland / Shrubland, HC-LR6 Secondary Woodland, HC-LR7 Fung Shui Woodland, HC-LR8 Orchard and LR10 Waste Ground) are located entirely outside the Project boundary and will not be affected by the works. Therefore there would be insubstantial impact on these LRs at Day 1 and Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.9 Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Operation Phase – Sung Shan New Village

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the Project are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.5.

9.13.6.10 SSNV- LCA03 Sung Shan Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

The implementation of mitigation measure to the new channel and the planting of shrubs and trees along the channel edges will effectively reinstate the river corridor which is a component part of this LCA. As such, the proposal will not have significant effect on the overall character of this valley landscape and will have a residual impact significance of insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.11 Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Operation Phase – Tai Wo

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the Project are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.6.

9.13.6.12 TW- LCA03 Tai Wo/Cheung Po Village Landscape

Since in the village areas, the scheme will be buried and the landscape reinstated above the residual impact significance will be insubstantial at Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.13 TW- LCA07 Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape

The loss of approximately 0.07ha (0.62%) of this LCA gives a small direct impact but will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this size of the overall LCA, the magnitude of change is considered to be small and the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight / moderate adverse at Day 1 and, after the opportunity for screening trees and shrubs to develop, would be considered slight adverse at Year 10.

9.13.6.14 Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Operation Phase – Lin Fa Tei

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the Project are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.7.

9.13.6.15 LFT- LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape

The very small area of the LCA to be affected by the works would be reinstated and the residual impact significance will be insubstantial at Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.16 LFT- LCA02 Rural Village Landscape

With the application of a range of mitigation measures including hard and soft landscape treatments, the improvements to the existing drainage channel can contribute to the character of the village landscape character. As such, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial at both Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.17 LFT- LCA03 Rural Residential Infill Landscape

The small affected area is along the edge of this LCA and thus will also affect the perception of landscape quality and character for the remaining visible part of the LCA. However, given the small scale and prominence of the works and the opportunity to mitigate with the introduction of tree and shrub planting which can contribute to this residential riverside character, impact significance with mitigation is considered to insubstantial at both Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.18 LFT- LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape

Since the scheme would be buried at this location, the very small area of the LCA to be affected by the works would be reinstated and the residual impact significance would be insubstantial at Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.19 LFT- LCA06 Urban Fringe Landscape

Given the small scale and prominence of the works relative to this LCA, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial at Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.20 Impacts on Landscape Character Areas with Mitigation during the Operation Phase – Ha Che

The impacts on LCAs as a result of the Project are assessed as follows and are described below and in Table 9.10.8.

9.13.6.21 HC-LCA03 Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape

The implementation of mitigation measure to the new channel and the planting of shrubs and trees along the channel edges will effectively reinstate the river corridor which is a component part of this LCA. As such the proposal will not have significant effect on the overall character of this valley landscape and will have a residual impact significance of insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.13.6.22 HC- LCA04 Ha Che Valley Village Landscape

The implementation of mitigation measure to the new channel and the planting of shrubs and trees along the channel edges will effectively reinstate the river corridor which is a component part of this LCA. As such the proposal will not have significant effect on the overall character of this valley landscape and will have a residual impact significance of insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase.

9.14 Residual Visual Impact

9.14.1. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Construction – Sung Shan New Village

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during construction are listed in Tables 9.11.5. The residual visual impacts in the construction phase are shown in Figure 9.19.

Residual visual impacts of moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.1.1 SSNV-VSR 2 Pedestrians using channel footbridge

The construction phase works include the removal of the existing vegetative cover and the modification of the existing bridge structures and retaining walls which will be difficult to effectively mitigate during the construction stage within the relatively restricted space at this location. As such these works will result in a moderate adverse residual impact during the construction stage.

9.14.1.2 SSNV-VSR 3 Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road

The reconfiguration of the channel profile and alignment will result in some tree removal to facilitate formation and construction works with limited space for mitigating the impacts as viewed from the adjacent access road. These works will result in a moderate adverse residual impact during the construction stage.

Residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.1.3 SSNV-VSR 6 Smallholdings south of existing channel

The reconfiguration of the channel profile and alignment will result in removal of existing grassy vegetation to facilitate formation and construction works. Mitigation measures can help reduce these impacts but due to the relative proximity of the VSRs there is a slight / moderate adverse residual impact.

9.14.1.4 SSNV-VSR 7 Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village

This VSR will experience similar issues to those for SSNV-VSR 6 above and consequently these works will also result in a slight / moderate adverse residual impact.

9.14.1.1 SSNV-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road

These transient views will be limited by retained vegetation and the use of mitigation measures, such as decorative hoarding to further screen the working area from views, and will lead to slight / moderate adverse residual impact.

Residual visual impacts of slight / insubstantial adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.1.2 SSNV-VSR 4 Residents of properties along Sung Shan New Village access road

The construction phase works include the localized removal of some existing trees and vegetative cover thereby reducing the green edge visible along a short section of the channel. Mitigation measure, such as use of decorative hoarding, can however help reduce impacts resulting in a slight / insubstantial adverse residual impact.

9.14.1.3 SSNV-VSR 8 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing

The main impacts will arise from the loss of some existing vegetation, although this would be viewed through retained vegetation located beyond the extent of the site. Given the viewing distance and the panoramic nature of the existing view the proposed works will lead to a slight / insubstantial adverse residual impact.

Residual visual impacts of insubstantial significance during construction will also be experienced by:

9.14.1.4 SSNV-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village

The views for vehicle travelers and pedestrians will be limited and will lead to an insubstantial residual impact.

9.14.2. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Operation – Sung Shan New Village

9.14.2.1 The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during operation are described in Table 9.11.5. Residual visual impacts during the operation phase are mapped in Figure 9.19.

9.14.2.2 At Day 1 of operation the channel improvement works will be reinstated and would generally be considered quite similar in disposition to the existing channel constructions, particularly where natural channel bedding has been adopted as a mitigation measure and there are general improvements to the appearance and finishes of structures to offset other impacts.

9.14.2.3 However, mitigation planting will still be relatively small and there will be residual visual impacts at VSRs where large trees have been removed to facilitate the works. and where the works have been undertaken within areas of previously relatively unspoilt rural character. It is noted that as compared to some of the other villages the upper parts of the channel are relatively rural and the proposed channel works are of a relatively larger scale. There are also no existing railings along most of the channel and their introduction does cause a visual impact, for which the introduction of a decorative design and channel edge shrub planting does not necessarily mitigate in the more rural parts of the channel. Parts of the channel are also well vegetated in the existing situation and the benefits of new greening measures may therefore be more measured at such locations.

9.14.2.4 With the maturing of landscape planting and screening trees, residual impacts will tend to diminish further by Year 10 of operation. At locations where the previous condition was a little run down and there is additional planting and a general improvement in the level of finishes to structures, slight beneficial residual impacts may also be anticipated. Generally, insubstantial and beneficial impacts after mitigation would be anticipated at Vantage Points within villages where combinations of the following are found:

· the existing scene is a little rundown and unmanaged,

· there is opportunity to introduce new tree and shrub planting as mitigation to significantly improve the extent of greenery and soften the appearance of the channel.

· there is a more urban character and context where decorative treatments on new structures may be deemed appropriate,

· the engineering proposals are of a small scale or a similar scale and alignment to the existing channel they replace,

· Views are more distant or of a partial / glimpsed nature such that the impacts are less significant and small visual improvements may be deemed beneficial relative to this baseline.

At SSNV these factors have been assessed for all of the VSR’s and the residual visual impacts after mitigation at both Day 1 and Year 10 at each VSR is summarized as follows:

9.14.2.5 At Day 1 of the operation phase, SSNV-VSR 3 (Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road) will experience residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance although these will be alleviated to slight adverse at Year 10 by virtue of the maturing planting at the channel edges. Whilst views of the channel are contained within a corridor defined by planting and adjacent property boundaries / built structures there are views to the channel bed at this location from the adjacent access road as the vegetation on the southern bank is low level grass and only occasional small tree clusters are present. The proposed alignment of the newly constructed channel undergoes minor modification at this location where the sloping southern bank is modified to a vertical profile whereby a few small clusters of existing tree planting are not able to be compensated at their original location. However the majority of the existing tree planting and larger trees are located on the northern bank and the proposed alignment is designed to accommodate retention of these trees. There is also space on the northern bank to accommodate some channel greening associated with proposed current deflectors in the stream bed and to allow the introduction of trailing edge planting to soften to the new wall structures. This planting will take time to establish but by Year 10 it is anticipated that the greening qualities of the existing scene could be only slightly adversely affected as compared to the original condition. The enclosed nature of the view and the more urban / industrial context of the location suggests that proposed safety railings along the channel edge are compatible with the landscape context and these can also be softened by maturing of bankside shrub planting in the longer term. The current channel construction is also a little degraded and it replacement with a new coherent structure is deemed a favourable aspect in coordination with the other proposed mitigation measures.

9.14.2.6 At Day 1 of the operation phase, SSNV-VSR 5 (Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road) will experience residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance although these will be alleviated to slight adverse at Year 10 by virtue of the maturing planting. As illustrated in Figures 9.25 and 9.26, the channel is aligned to the roadside and so to some extent a managed appearance (OM2) is compatible with the landscape setting, whilst the responsive design of the channel alignment (OM03) allows the retention of the large existing trees on the northern side of the channel. However the southern bank forms an edge to a more rural area which is currently well vegetated with an attractive visual quality which cannot be immediately replicated. The channel is proposed to be slightly widened at this location with a straight sided channel replacing a sloped area on the southern side of the channel which supported this vegetation of woody shrubs and some small trees. Whilst creating more of an initial visual impact the vertical side at the southern bank channel can however be mitigated to some extent by selection of natural tone materials for the side wall construction (OM02) whilst such vertical wall design does allow more space for the introduction of compensatory trees planting (OM06) and channel edge greening (OM08). In terms of trees the new planting adequately compensates for the losses however the overall greening effect is still diminished at Day One. The channel side railing though small in scale are also not entirely compatible with the more rural context of this part of the channel and would be relatively visible before planting has matured. In combination with other factors this leads to an assessment of slight / moderate impact after mitigation at Day One. However, over time the growth of vegetation and weathering of materials will help blend the constructed works with their landscape setting. In particular the growth of trailing plants at the channel edges (OM04) and the maturing of the compensatory tree planting (OM06) and shrub planting at the channel edges will reduce the residual impacts to Slight and Year 10.

9.14.2.7 At Day 1 of the operation phase, SSNV-VSR 6 (Smallholdings south of existing channel) will experience residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance although these will be alleviated to slight adverse at Year 10 by virtue of the maturing planting. Whilst there are no existing trees along the southern bank, the current view is well vegetated and the removal of this vegetation would constitute the main impact prior to mitigation, opening up direct views to the newly engineered channel from this close vantage point. However the proposed channel alignment and profile are quite similar to the existing and there is space within the works boundary to introduce mitigation measures in the form of new tree and shrub planting at the channel edge along the southern bank and for mitigation planting works on the proposed channel embankments and northern channel edges. There are large existing bankside trees visible downstream along the northern bank and a few of the more distant of which would be lost as part of the works and for which the stature of newly planted trees in the foreground of the southern bank would not fully mitigate at Day 1. However, with the maturing of these trees it is anticipated that by Year 10 the greening qualities of the existing scene could be effectively compensated. The more rural context of this area of the upper area of the SSNV channel is also a factor in the effectiveness of proposed mitigation measures as the proposed safety railings along the channel edge are less compatible with this landscape context than within more urban settings. Whilst these would be screened to some extent by maturing bankside shrub planting and channel edge greening measures in the longer term, a slight residual impact is anticipated by Year 10.

9.14.2.8 At Day 1 of the operation phase, SSNV-VSR 7 (Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village) will experience residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance although these will be alleviated to slight adverse at Year 10 by virtue of the maturing of new tree planting and channel side shrub and trailing planting introduced as mitigation measures (OM06, OM08) and the establishment of in-channel planting and embankment planting mitigation measures (OM07, OM05). Figures 9.28 and 9.29 for SSNV-VSR 7 (Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village) illustrate how the impact of construction works in a vegetated urban fringe setting are to some extent offset by additional tree planting and channel edge greening. Whilst the character of the scene is a little more managed and man-made than the original condition the assessment considers that the location is close to the boundary between an urban character area (LCA03) and a more rural/agricultural character area (LCA04) and the proposals would create a logical transition between these character areas where the riverside on the rural side of this transition is well vegetated with new tree and shrub planting to create a verdant edge condition after mitigation. Nevertheless the VSR currently enjoys an open view of a green rural scenery and although they are small scale elements the introduction of channel side railings is an overtly man made element which reinforces the linearity of the channel alignment through this rural landscape. This effect is not entirely mitigated at Year 10 resulting in a slight residual visual impact at Year 10.

9.14.2.9 At Day 1 of the operation phase, SSNV-VSR 2 (Pedestrians using channel footbridge) are anticipated to have insubstantial impacts and slight beneficial impacts at Year 10. As illustrated in Figures 9.22 and 9.23 the existing condition at this location is somewhat shabby with exposed and degraded structures associated the deteriorated condition of the existing channel and hard surfaces and a plethora of unmanaged vegetation. Although the river area boundary is lined with existing trees and vegetation which provides a degree of visual enclosure there are nearby developments on either side of the channel and as such the landscape context is relatively urban. The proposed engineering works involve some minor realignment of the channel and re-construction of a straight sided channel profile at this change in the channel direction resulting in the loss of three existing small trees and the removal of some existing in-channel vegetation. However the larger trees aligned to the channel corridor are retained through responsive alignment (OM03) whilst the layout incorporates a new pedestrian footbridge alignment (OM04) which allows for the introduction of more tree planting and channel edge shrub planting area to compensate for this loss (OM06). The presence of existing railings along sections of the existing channel and the more urban context of the location suggests that proposed safety railings along the channel edge are more compatible with the landscape context as compared to the more open and rural context of vantage points further upstream. At Day One the addition of new tree and shrub planting (OM06) is assessed to offset the minor impact of the decorative safety railings (OM02) resulting in an insubstantial impact. The railings can also be further softened by maturing bankside tree and shrub planting in the longer term. As illustrated in Figure 9.23 the tidying up of the area, the maturing of the new tree and shrub planting and trailing planting at the channel walls (OM08) to soften the appearance of the built structures is therefore considered to be an enhancement to the visual impression of the area in the longer term resulting in a Slight Beneficial Impact by Year 10.

9.14.2.10 Of the remaining VSRs at this site, all are considered to have insubstantial residual impact after mitigation at both Day 1 and Year 10, including SSNV-VSR 1 (Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village), SSNV- VSR 4 (Residents of properties along Sung Shan Village access road) and SSNV-VSR 8 (Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing). Compared to other Vantage points these are a little distant from the proposed works and of a partial / glimpsed nature such that the unmitigated impacts during the operation stage are deemed slight or insubstantial. With the introduction of mitigation measures some minor improvements are then anticipated such that the impacts would also be deemed insubstantial after mitigation.

9.14.3. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Construction – Tai Wo

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during construction are listed in Table 9.11.6. The residual visual impacts in the construction phase are shown in Figure 9.46.

Residual visual impacts of moderate / substantial adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.3.1 TW-VSR 5 Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po

Residual impacts experienced by this VSR will be moderate / substantial adverse due to the loss of existing trees and the excavation of a new open drainage channel in close proximity to the existing footpath within this otherwise undeveloped area.

Residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.3.2 TW-VSR 1 Residents of Tai Wo (south east)

The main impacts will arise from the loss of some existing vegetation and views of the excavation and construction works and associated plant and equipment, although this would be viewed through retained vegetation located beyond the extent of the site. Given the viewing distance and the panoramic nature of the existing view, the proposed works will lead to a slight / moderate adverse residual impact.

Residual visual impacts of slight adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.3.3 TW-VSR 3 Residents of Tai Wo (south) and TW - VSR 4 Residents of Tai Wo (south west)

The main impacts will arise from the loss of some existing vegetation and excavation works associated with the scheme, although these will be relatively distant from these VSRs. Residual visual impacts of slight adverse significance during construction will be experienced by these VSRs.

Residual visual impacts of Insubstantial / slight adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.3.4 TW-VSR 2 Walkers on hillside water catchment drainage channel

Owing to the elevated viewing position, there will be views of a large extent of the scheme. However, from this distant view, the works are very small scale and would be viewed against a backdrop of the existing villages and other development works ongoing in the vicinity. Residual impacts experienced by this VSR will therefore be insubstantial / slight.

Residual visual impacts of insubstantial significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.3.5 TW-VSR 6 Residents of Cheung Po village (south east)

Potential impacts arise from the loss of some existing vegetation which could marginally affect the effective existing vegetation screening of the site from these VSRs, particularly in relation to any taller elements such as excavation machinery deployed during the construction stage. However, given the viewing distance and the panoramic nature of the existing view, the proposed works will lead to an insubstantial residual impact.

9.14.3.6 TW-VSR 7 Pedestrians on West Rail overbridge to east of site

Potential impacts arise from the loss of some existing vegetation which could marginally affect the effective existing vegetation screening of the site from these VSRs, particularly in relation to any taller features such as excavation equipment deployed during the construction stage. However, given the viewing distance and the panoramic nature of the existing view, the proposed works will lead to an insubstantial residual impact.

9.14.4. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Operation – Tai Wo

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during operation are described in Table 9.11.6. Residual visual impacts during the operation phase are mapped in Figure 9.46. At Day 1 of operation, the drainage improvement works will be completed and would generally be considered to be small scale and low profile is addition to the landscape. Whilst the open channels are narrow, features sections towards the village areas are also buried below ground, further reducing the potential for visual impact. However, mitigation planting will still be relatively small and there will be residual visual impacts at some VSRs where larger trees have been removed to facilitate the works. With the maturing of landscape planting and screening trees, residual impacts will tend to diminish further by Year 10 of operation.

By Day 1 of the operation phase TW-VSR 5 (Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po) will experience residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance although these will be alleviated to slight at Year 10 by virtue of the maturing planting. At Day 1 of the operation phase, TW-VSR 1 (Residents of Tai Wo south east) and TW-VSR 3 (Residents of Tai Wo south) will experience residual visual impacts of slight adverse significance although these will be alleviated to insubstantial at Year 10 by virtue of the maturing planting. The remaining four VSRs at this village will have insubstantial residual impact at both Day 1 and Year 10.

9.14.5. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Construction – Lin Fa Tei

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during construction are listed in Table 9.11.7. The residual visual impacts in the construction phase are shown in Figure 9.80.

Residual visual impacts of moderate / substantial adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.5.1 LFT-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road

The construction phase works include the removal of some of the existing roadside trees lining the road. As such these works will result in a moderate / substantial adverse residual impact.

9.14.5.2 LFT-VSR 9 Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei

The construction phase works include the removal of existing vegetation within the channel and formation works to configure the new channel profile. Given the close proximity of the VSR and the rural nature of the setting, these works will result in a moderate / substantial adverse residual impact.

Residual visual impacts of moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.5.3 LFT-VSR 5 Residents of Lin Fa Tei Riverside

Whilst there are a few existing trees to be affected at this location, the constricted space and proximity of the public space surrounding the channel will also limit the potential of construction stage mitigation measures. As such these works will result in a moderate adverse residual impact.

9.14.5.4 LFT-VSR 6 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei

Whilst there are no existing trees to be affected within this view, the constricted space and proximity of the public space surrounding the channel will also limit the potential of construction stage mitigation measures. As such these works will result in a moderate adverse residual impact.

9.14.5.5 LFT-VSR 8 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West)

The close viewing distance to the necessary formation and construction works will be difficult to significantly mitigate and these works will result in a moderate adverse residual impact during the construction phase.

Residual visual impacts of Slight / Moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.5.6 LFT-VSR 2 Pedestrians on Footpath between Lin Fa Tei and Kam Sheung Road

Given the narrow site works area, the views for pedestrians cannot be significantly mitigated including the installation of temporary noise barriers of around 3m height. However, given the disturbed and slightly shabby nature of the immediate surroundings, the proposed works will lead to a Slight / moderate adverse residual impact for this VSR during the construction stage.

9.14.5.7 LFT-VSR 3 Residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway

The construction phase works will include use of construction plant and machinery at this open hard surfaced urban space which includes the installation of temporary noise barriers of around 3m height to help mitigate noise impacts at adjacent properties. However, since the site is at the edge of this area, the use of screen hoarding and other mitigation measures can be partially effective. As such These works will result in a Slight / moderate adverse residual impact during the construction Phase.

Residual visual impacts of slight adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.5.8 LFT-VSR 4 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Tsan Tin access road

Given the viewing distance, the intermittent intervening vegetation and the panoramic nature of the existing view, the proposed works will lead to a slight adverse residual impact.

Residual visual impacts of slight / insubstantial adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.5.9 LFT-VSR 7 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (Central)

Given the viewing distance, the intervening vegetation and the panoramic nature of the existing view, the proposed works will lead to slight / insubstantial adverse residual impact.

9.14.6. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Operation – Lin Fa Tei

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during operation are described Table 9.11.7. Residual visual impacts during the operation phase are mapped in Figure 9.80. At Day 1 of operation, the channel improvement works will be reinstated and particularly at LFT-VSRs 1-3, the new construction areas would generally be considered quite similar in disposition to the existing channel constructions. Natural channel bedding and general improvements to the appearance and finishes of structures can also mitigate some of the impacts of the works. However, mitigation planting will still be relatively small and there will be residual visual impacts at VSRs where larger trees have been removed to facilitate the works. With the maturing of landscape planting and screening trees, residual impacts will tend to diminish further at Year 10 of operation. At locations where there is additional planting and a general improvement in the level of finishes to structures, slight beneficial residual impacts are also anticipated.

9.14.6.1 During the operation phase, the predicted residual impacts for LFT-VSR 9 (Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei) would be reduced from moderate in Day 1 to slight / moderate in Year 10 after mitigation. At LFT-VSR 1 (Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road), since the main impact is removal of trees, the growth of new trees between Day 1 and Year 10 would allow the residual visual impacts in the operation phase to be reduced from slight/moderate to insubstantial at Year 10. Similarly, the reinstatement of the channel at LFT-VSR 8 (Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West)) can be reduced from slight to insubstantial after 10 years of tree and vegetation growth.

Of the remaining VSR’s at this site, three locations will have insubstantial residual impact at both Day 1 and Year 10 (LFT-VSR 2, LFT-VSR 4 and LFT-VSR 7). For LFT-VSR 5 and LFT-VSR 6, owing to the sensitivity of the locations the unmitigated impacts are deemed moderate, however owing to the slightly rundown nature of the existing visual environment and the potential for improvements to enhance this communal space the effect of improvements to existing structures, use of decorative railing at the channel edge and the addition of tree and shrub planting to blend the channel into the surroundings and soften views of existing structures is considered to represent visual improvement. A similar potential for beneficial improvements is also noted at LFT-VSR 3. As such, owing to the improved nature of the channel structures and introduction of additional planting, mitigation measures at these three VSR’s are deemed to generate slight beneficial impacts at Day 1 and, after maturing of the additional, planting at Year 10, these would be considered slight / moderate beneficial.

9.14.7. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Construction – Ha Che

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during construction are listed in Table 9.11.8. The residual visual impacts in the construction phase are shown in Figures 9.119 to 9.120.

Residual visual impacts of moderate / substantial adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.7.1 HC-VSR 4 Residents of village houses at south of Shui Kan Shek

The construction phase works include the removal of some existing trees at this village gateway site. These works will result in a moderate / substantial adverse residual impact at the construction stage.

9.14.7.2 HC-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road

The construction phase works include the removal of some existing trees at this village gateway site. These works will result in a moderate / substantial adverse residual impact at the construction stage.

Residual visual impacts of moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.7.3 HC-VSR 6 Residents of village houses at north of Chuk Hang

The proximity of these houses to the channel and their slight elevation looking down into the channel makes effective mitigation difficult at the construction stage. In addition, the removal of some trees will result in a moderate adverse residual impact.

9.14.7.4 HC-VSR 7 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road

Whilst some larger trees at the roadside can be retained, further trees within the existing channel will need to be removed and will result in a moderate adverse residual impact at the construction stage.

9.14.7.5 HC-VSR 8 Residents of Ha Che bordering Fan Kam Road

Whilst some trees can be retained, some individual existing trees near the channel which frame entrance driveways to houses will need to be removed and will result in a moderate adverse residual impact at the construction stage.

Residual visual impacts of slight / moderate significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.7.6 HC-VSR 3 Pedestrians on footpath from Fan Kam Road to Shui Kan Shek

The construction phase works include the removal of some existing trees along the channel. These works will result in slight / moderate adverse residual impact

Residual visual impacts of slight adverse significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.7.7 HC-VSR 1 Pedestrians on industrial area access path

There will be some impact on existing vegetation within the channel although views to the site can be readily mitigated by the erection of a short section of decorative screen hoarding. As such, the proposed works will lead to a slight adverse residual impact.

9.14.7.8 HC-VSR 9 Residents of Ha Che (south east)

There will be some impact on existing trees and vegetation along the edges of the channel resulting in a slight adverse residual impact.

Residual visual impacts of insubstantial significance during construction will be experienced by:

9.14.7.9 HC-VSR 2 Residents of village houses north of Shui Kan Shek)

The views are localized and can be readily mitigated by the erection of a short section of decorative screen hoarding. As such, the proposed works will lead to an insubstantial residual impact.

9.14.8. Significance of Residual Visual Impacts during Operation – Ha Che

The proposed visual enhancement and landscape mitigation measures during operation are described Table 9.11.8. Residual visual impacts during the operation phase are mapped in Figures 9.119 to 9.120. At Day 1 of operation, the channel improvement works will be reinstated and particularly at HC - VSRs 1-3, the new construction areas would generally be considered quite similar in disposition to the existing channel constructions. Natural channel bedding and general improvements to the appearance and finishes of structures can also mitigate some of the impacts of the works. However, mitigation planting will still be relatively small at Day 1 and there will be residual visual impacts at VSRs where larger trees have been removed to facilitate the works. With the maturing of landscape planting and screening trees, residual impacts will tend to diminish further by Year 10 of operation. At locations where there is additional planting and a general improvement in the level of finishes to structures, slight beneficial residual impacts are also anticipated.

9.14.8.1 During the operation phase, the predicted residual impacts for HC-VSR 4 and HC-VSR 5 would be slight / moderate at Day 1, reducing to slight beneficial at Year 10 after the growth of compensatory tree planting. For HC-VSR 4 and HC-VSR 5, since the area is a gateway to a village / residential area the addition of decorative railings, the formation of a new vehicular bridge and tidying up of drainage structures and the introduction of amenity tree and shrub planting associated with the works is deemed to be appropriate and compatible to this location and therefore mitigation measures could have potential for improvement as compared to the existing scene. However, since there will be removal of some established trees, particularly for VSR4, the impacts are considered Slight / Moderate adverse at Day 1 with the effectiveness of mitigation as a Slight Beneficial Impact arising only on maturing of the tree planting at Year 10 to compensate for the stature of some of the lost trees. Similarly at HC-VSR 6, since the main impact is removal of trees the growth of new trees between Day 1 and Year 10 would allow the residual visual impacts in the operation phase to be reduced from slight/moderate adverse to slight /insubstantial adverse at Year 10.

9.14.8.2 The reinstatement of the channel at HC-VSR 7 can be reduced from slight adverse to slight / insubstantial adverse after 10 years of tree and vegetation growth whilst slight adverse residual impacts at Day 1 at HC-VSR3 can be transformed to slight beneficial after 10 years growth of the mitigation planting scheme.

9.14.8.3 Residual Impacts at Day 1 and Year 10 during the operation phase are deemed insubstantial at HC-VSR 2 and HC-VSR 9. Of the remaining VSRs at this site, HC-VSR 1 will have slight beneficial impacts at both Day 1 and Year 10 owing to the improved nature of the structures and introduction of additional planting. The remaining location (HC-VSR 8,) is deemed to have slight / moderate adverse and slight/ insubstantial adverse impact in Day 1 and Year 10.

9.15 Cumulative Impact

There are no current planned major public projects in these four village locations. Therefore, given the above, it is anticipated that there will be no significant long term cumulative landscape and visual impact on Landscape Resources, Landscape Character and visual amenity of VSRs.

9.16 Summary and Conclusion

The detailed landscape and visual assessment above is briefly summarised below:

9.16.1. Summary of Landscape and Visual Impacts during Construction

Sung Shan New Village

During the construction phase, there will be moderate adverse residual impacts for the following LRs located within the Project boundary: SSNV- LR3 Water Course and SSNV – LR7 Plantation. The residual impacts for SSNV – LR9 Urban / Residential Area would be insubstantial / slight adverse. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

For Landscape Character Areas, there will be slight adverse impact at SSNV- LCA03 Sung Shan Valley Rural Industrial Landscape. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

The residual visual impacts during the construction phase include moderate adverse residual visual impacts experienced by: SSNV-VSR 2 Pedestrians using channel footbridge and SSNV-VSR 3 Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road. Residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by SSNV-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road, SSNV-VSR 6 Smallholdings south of existing channel and SSNV-VSR 7 Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village. Residual visual impacts of slight / insubstantial adverse significance during construction will be experienced by: SSNV-VSR 4 Residents of properties along Sung Shan New Village access road and SSNV-VSR 8 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on channel bridge crossing. Residual visual impacts of insubstantial significance during construction will be experienced by: SSNV-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on road south of Tong Tau Po Tsuen village and SSNV-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers on Sung Shan New Village access road.

Tai Wo

During the construction phase, there will be moderate adverse residual impacts for TW- LR5 Water Course located within the Project boundary. The residual impacts for TW- LR7 Grassland would be slight adverse whilst those for TW- LR12 Waste Ground Area and TW- LR13 Urban Residential Area would be insubstantial / slight adverse. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

For Landscape Character Areas, there will be moderate adverse impact at TW-LCA07 Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape and slight adverse impact at TW-LCA03 Tai Wo/Cheung Po Village Landscape. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

The residual visual impacts during the construction phase include moderate / substantial adverse significance experienced by TW-VSR 5 Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po. Residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by: TW-VSR 1 Residents of Tai Wo (south east) whilst TW-VSR 2 Walkers on hillside water catchment drainage channel would experience insubstantial / slight adverse significance during construction. Residual visual impacts of insubstantial significance during construction will be experienced by: TW-VSR 6 Residents of Cheung Po village (south east) TW-VSR 7 Pedestrians on West Rail overbridge to east of site, while slight significance will be experienced by: TW-VSR 4 Residents of Tai Wo (south west) and TW-VSR 3 Residents of Tai Wo (south).

Lin Fa Tei

During the construction phase, there will be moderate adverse residual impacts for the following LRs located within the Project boundary: LFT-LR4 Water Course, LFT- LR8 Secondary Woodland and LFT- LR10 Plantation. The residual impacts for LFT- LR11 Waste Ground and LFT- LR12 Urban / Residential Area would be insubstantial / slight adverse. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

For Landscape Character Areas, there will slight adverse residual impacts for the following LRs located within the Project boundary: LFT- LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape, LFT- LCA02 Rural Village Landscape and LFT- LCA03 Rural Residential Infill Landscape. The impacts at LFT- LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape and LFT- LCA06 Urban Fringe Landscape would be insubstantial. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

The residual visual impacts during the construction phase include impacts of moderate / substantial adverse significance experienced by: LFT-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road and LFT-VSR 9 Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei.

Residual visual impacts of moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by LFT-VSR 5 Residents of Lin Fa Tei Riverside and LFT-VSR 6 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians at channel crossing in Lin Fa Tei and LFT-VSR 8 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West). Residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by: LFT-VSR 2 Pedestrians on footpath between Lin Fa Tei and Kam Sheung Road and LFT-VSR 3 Residents and pedestrians at Lin Fa Tei Village Gateway. Residual visual impacts of slight adverse significance during construction will be experienced by: LFT-VSR 4 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Tsan Tin access road whilst residual visual impacts of slight / insubstantial adverse significance during construction will be experienced by: LFT-VSR 7 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (Central).

Ha Che

During the construction phase, there will be moderate adverse residual impacts for the following LRs located within the Project boundary: HC- LR3 Water Course and HC- LR09 Plantation. The residual impacts for HC- LR11 Urban / Residential Area would be insubstantial / slight adverse. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

For Landscape Character Areas, there will be slight adverse impact at HC- LCA04 Ha Che Valley Village Landscape and the impact significance would be insubstantial / slight at HC-LCA03 Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

The residual visual impacts during the construction phase include impacts of moderate / substantial adverse significance experienced by:HC-VSR 4 Residents of village houses at south of Shui Kan Shek and HC-VSR 5 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Shui Kan Shek access road. Residual visual impacts of moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by: HC-VSR 6 Residents of village houses at north of Chuk Hang, HC-VSR 7 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Fan Kam Road and HC-VSR 8 Residents of Ha Che bordering Fan Kam Road.

Residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance during construction will be experienced by HC-VSR 3 Pedestrians on footpath from Fan Kam Road to Shui Kan Shek , whilst residual visual impacts of slight significance during construction will be experienced by HC-VSR 1 Pedestrians on industrial area access path. Residual visual impacts of insubstantial significance during construction will be experienced by HC-VSR 2 Residents of village houses north of Shui Kan Shek. Residual visual impacts of slight significance during construction will be experienced by HC-VSR 9.

9.16.2. Summary of Landscape and Visual Impacts during Operation

Sung Shan New Village

During the operation phase with the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, the residual impacts for the LRs within the Project boundary would be slight adverse at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 for SSNV- LR3 Water Course and SSNV – LR7 Plantation. Insubstantial impacts at both Day 1 and Year 10 would be experienced at SSNV – LR9 Urban / Residential Area. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

For SSNV-LCA03 Sung Shan Valley Rural Industrial Landscape, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial at both Day 1 and Year 10. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

The residual visual impacts during the operation phase at four of the VSRs in more rural locations at SSNV are rated as slight / moderate adverse significance at Day 1. At SSNV-VSR 3 Workers and vehicles on industrial area access road, SSNV-VSR 5 Vehicular Travellers on Sung Shan New Village Access Road, SSNV-VSR 6 (Smallholdings south of existing channel) and SSNV-VSR 7 (Pedestrians on footbridge crossing from Sung Shan New Village) these impacts would be alleviated to slight adverse significance at Year 10 by virtue of the maturing planting introduced as mitigation measures. Of the remaining four VSRs at this site, three will have insubstantial residual visual impact at both Day 1 and Year 10 whilst SSNV-VSR 2 Pedestrians using channel footbridge will also have insubstantial impacts at Day 1 improving to slight beneficial by Year 10.

Tai Wo

During the operation phase with the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, the residual impacts for the LRs within the Project boundary would be slight adverse at both Day 1 and Year 10 for the following LRs: TW- LR7 Grassland and TW- LR12 Waste Ground. TW- LR5 Water Course would experience slight adverse at Day 1 moderating to insubstantial at Year 10 whilst the residual impact significance of insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase would apply at TW- LR13 Urban / Residential Area. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

The impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight / moderate adverse at Day 1 and slight adverse at Year 10 for TW- LCA07 Tai Wo Valley Floor Landscape, whilst at TW- LCA03 Tai Wo/Cheung Po Village Landscape the residual impact significance will be insubstantial at Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

For residual visual impact, by Day 1 of the operation phase TW-VSR 5 (Pedestrians on narrow footpath between Tai Wo and Cheung Po) will experience residual visual impacts of slight / moderate adverse significance reducing to slight by Year 10. Two VSR’s (TW-VSR 1 and TW-VSR 3) would experience slight residual visual impacts at Day 1 reducing to Insubstantial by Year 10 whilst the remaining four VSRs at this village will have insubstantial residual visual impact at both Day 1 and Year 10.

Lin Fa Tei

During the operation phase with the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, the residual impacts for the LRs within the Project boundary would be moderate / slight adverse ay Day 1 and reduced to insubstantial at Year 10 for LFT- LR8 Secondary Woodland and LFT- LR10 Plantation. At LFT- LR11 Waste Ground, a residual impact significance of insubstantial / slight adverse at Day 1 and insubstantial / slight adverse at Year 10 of the operation phase would be experienced.

For LFT-LR4 Water Course at Day 1, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse and at Year 10, insubstantial whilst LFT- LR12 Urban / Residential Area, the residual impact significance is insubstantial at Day 1 and at Year 10 of the operation phase. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

In terms of Landscape Character Impacts, the Residual impacts at the operation stage would be insubstantial at Day 1 and at Year 10 for the following LCAs: LFT- LCA01 Channelised River Corridor Landscape, LFT- LCA02 Rural Village Landscape, LFT- LCA03 Rural Residential Infill Landscape, LFT- LCA05 Rural Agricultural Landscape and LFT- LCA06 Urban Fringe Landscape. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

During the operation phase, the predicted residual visual impacts for LFT-VSR 9 Pedestrians on riverside footpath to south west of Lin Fa Tei would be reduced from moderate at Day 1 to slight / moderate at Year 10 after mitigation. At LFT-VSR 1 Vehicle travellers and pedestrians on Kam Sheung Road, the residual visual impacts in the operation phase would be reduced from slight/moderate adverse at Day 1 to insubstantial at Year 10. Similarly, the reinstatement of the channel reduces the residual visual impacts at LFT-VSR 8 Residents of Lin Fa Tei (South West) from slight to insubstantial over this time period.

Of the remaining VSRs at this site, three locations will have insubstantial residual impact at both Day 1 and Year 10 (LFT-VSR 2, LFT-VSR 4 and LFT-VSR 7), whilst the remaining three locations (LFT-VSR 3, LFT-VSR 5 and LFT-VSR 6) are deemed to generate slight beneficial impacts at Day 1, and at Year 10 impacts would be considered slight / moderate beneficial.

Ha Che

During the operation phase with the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, the residual impacts for the LRs within the Project boundary would be moderate / slight adverse at Day 1 and would be reduced to insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase at HC- LR9 Plantation. At HC- LR3 Water Course the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be slight adverse at Day 1 and at Year 10, the impact significance with mitigation is considered to be insubstantial. At HC- LR11 Urban / Residential Area, the residual impact significance of insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase is noted. All other LRs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

For Landscape Character Area at Ha Che, residual impact significance of insubstantial at Day 1 and insubstantial at Year 10 of the operation phase is noted for both HC-LCA03 Ha Che Valley Rural Industrial Landscape and HC- LCA04 Ha Che Valley Village Landscape. All other LCAs located within the Study Area are located entirely outside the Project boundary and so there would be no impact.

During the operation phase, the predicted residual visual impacts for HC-VSR 4 and HC-VSR 5 would be slight / moderate adverse at Day 1, reducing to slight beneficial at Year 10. Similarly, at HC-VSR 6, between Day 1 and Year 10 the residual visual impacts in the operation phase would be reduced from slight/moderate adverse to slight /insubstantial adverse at Year 10. The reinstatement of the channel at HC-VSR 7 would be reduced from slight to slight / insubstantial adverse after 10 years whilst slight adverse residual impacts at Day 1 at HC-VSR3 would be transformed to slight beneficial at Year 10.

Of the remaining VSRs, at this site one location will have slight beneficial impacts at both Day 1 and Year 10 (HC-VSR 1) owing to the improved nature of the structures and introduction of additional planting. HC-VSR 8 will have slight/ moderate adverse and slight/ insubstantial adverse impact in Day 1 and Year 10. The remaining locations (HC-VSR 2 and HC-VSR 9) are deemed to have insubstantial impact at both Day 1 and Year 10.

9.16.3. Conclusion

The proposed drainage works at the locations studied will see some changes in the landscape and visual amenity of the project sites, since the works generally involve upgrading of existing channels rather than constructing totally new drainage elements within the landscape. The proposals generally included minor modifications to channel alignments, alterations of channel profiles and works to connect these modified channels into the existing drainage infrastructure and the re-provisioning of various structures such as footbridges, culverts and footpaths.

The future landscape context represented by the planning framework including OZPs will generally retain the current development pattern of villages and other rural land uses but also allows some future housing developments in the vicinity of the study areas. The channels tend to be located within village areas and next to open storage and light industrial uses where space is at a premium and the sites are often narrow and sandwiched between adjacent land uses.

The existing channels are occasionally degraded and in need of upgrading and repair and the proposed works should therefore provide some improvement to the appearance of these structural elements within the landscape. Nevertheless, there are several existing trees along the edges of the existing channels and a high proportion of these within the defined site areas will be affected by the proposed drainage construction works.

The design of the drainage proposals have sought to be as sensitive as possible to the existing landscape setting and incorporate a range of mitigation measures. This includes modifying the channel alignments and profiles of the site through a number of design iterations to minimise their impact on surrounding landscape character and visual amenity. The landscape and visual mitigation proposals include the alignment and channel / embankment configurations of the engineering scheme, which wherever possible are aligned to the existing channel corridor. The landscape and visual mitigation measures also propose using a combination of tree and shrub planting to help integrate the proposals into the existing landscape context whilst also obscuring views of the proposals from some locations and through the introduction of vertical elements of planting reducing the horizontal emphasis of the channel wall design in others. The planting is also designed to reduce the visual contrast between the concrete engineered structure and the adjacent vegetation.

Within the channels the landscape and visual mitigation measures include the use of natural bedding in wider channels in coordination with channel and embankment greening as well as the provision of planting along the channel edges to integrate with groups of retained trees to form a narrow landscape buffer. Since the development proposals are generally low in height, this will screen low-level views (the majority of the existing VSRs are low-level) and help integrate the proposals within the existing landscape framework.

As described in section 9.16.1, given the nature of the proposed construction works, the residual landscape and visual impacts during the construction phase are more significant than in the operation phase, however these impacts are temporary in nature.

In the operation phase, the likely impacts on LRs and LCAs during the design year (Year 10) will range from slight adverse to insubstantial. There are no locations where the residual impacts remain significantly adverse after mitigation. The noted residual impacts at Year 10 are largely due to overall loss of area of individual landscape resources, such as grassland area at Tai Wo, or waste ground at Lin Fa Tei. However, in synthesis these impacts are generally offset by the replacement with other landscape resources such as water course or plantation woodland associated with the proposed enlargement of the channel area and mitigation planting measures after their full establishment. Trees proposed to be felled shall be compensated at a ratio of 1:1 (by number) and shall be based on species selection appropriate to the location such that the residual impacts on landscape resources and landscape character are minimized in the longer term.

As described in Section 9.13.2, although the visual impact assessment suggests a slight /moderate adverse impact at year 10 for one VSR (LFT-VSR-9 at Lin Fa Tei), the majority of the residual visual impacts are within the range slight to insubstantial. Owing to the rural nature of the existing setting, the more significant impacts to views that are identified happen to correspond to locations where views are only available to a relatively few people. It should also be noted that the works are an opportunity to make visual improvements and that slight and slight / moderate beneficial impacts are also predicted at locations where aesthetic treatments to structures and the introduction of greenery to areas currently lacking managed vegetation can provide improvements to the visual resources in the longer term.

The level of residual landscape and visual impacts is directly linked to the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures. In accordance with the criteria and guidelines for evaluating and assessing impacts as state in Annex 10, Clause 1.1(c) of the EIAO-TM, overall, it is considered that the residual landscape and visual impacts of the proposed works are acceptable with mitigation at all four villages during the construction and operation phases: “there will be some adverse effects, but these can be eliminated, reduced or offset to a large extent by specific measures”.