· Geotechnical Engineering Office (GEO) Publication No. 1/2011 – Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment and Bio-Engineering for Man-Made Slopes and Retaining Walls;

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

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

· Study on Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong.

10.2.1.2 The Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) gazetted under the Town Planning Ordinance provides the statutory framework for land use development. Reference has been made to the Draft Ma On Shan OZP No. S/MOS/23 (gazetted on 16.10.2020) and the Approved Sha Tin OZP No. S/ST/34 (gazetted on 8.6.2018).

10.3 Assessment Methodology

10.3.1 Landscape Impact Assessment Methodology

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

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

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

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

High:	Important landscape character or resource of particularly distinctive character or high importance, sensitive to relatively small change.
Medium:	Landscape character or resource of moderately valued landscape characteristics reasonably tolerant to change.
Low:	Landscape character or resource, the nature of which is largely tolerant to change.

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

· The magnitude of landscape changes is classified as follows:

Large:	The landscape character or landscape resource would incur a major change.
Intermediate:	The landscape character or landscape resource would incur a moderate change.
Small:	The landscape or landscape resource would incur slight or barely perceptible change.
Negligible:	The landscape or landscape resource would incur no discernible change.

· Identification of the magnitude of landscape change. The magnitude of the change depends on a number of factors including the physical extent of the change, the compatibility of the Project with the surrounding landscape, the duration of impact and the reversibility of change. Landscape changes have been quantified wherever possible.

· The magnitude of landscape changes is classified as follows:

Large:	The landscape character or landscape resource would involve a major change.
Intermediate:	The landscape character or landscape resource would involve a moderate change.
Small:	The landscape or landscape resource would involve slight or barely perceptible change.
Negligible:	The landscape or landscape resource would involve no discernible change.

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

· Prediction of the significance of landscape impacts before and after the implementation of the mitigation measures. By synthesizing the magnitude of the various impacts and the sensitivity of the various landscape resources, it is possible to categorise impacts in a logical, well-reasoned and consistent fashion. Table 10.1 shows the rationale for dividing the degree of significance into four thresholds, namely insubstantial, slight, moderate, and substantial, depending on the combination of a negligible-small-intermediate-large magnitude of change and a low-medium-high degree of sensitivity of landscape resource / character.

Table 10.1 Relationship between Landscape Sensitivity and Magnitude of Change in Defining Impact Significance

Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial	Substantial
	Intermediate	Slight / Moderate	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial
	Small	Insubstantial / Slight	Slight / Moderate	Moderate
	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
		Low	Medium	High
		Sensitivity of Landscape Character Area and Resource
Note: All impacts are Adverse unless otherwise noted with Beneficial.

· The significance of landscape impacts is categorised as follows:

Substantial:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality.
Moderate:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality.
Slight:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality.
Insubstantial:	No discernible change in the existing landscape quality.

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

10.3.2 Visual Impact Assessment Methodology

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

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

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

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

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

o Other factors which are considered (as required by EIAO GN 8/2010) include the value and quality of existing views, the availability and amenity of alternative views, the duration or frequency of view, and the degree of visibility.

· The sensitivity of VSRs is classified as follows:

High:	The VSR is highly sensitive to any change in their viewing experience.
Medium:	The VSR is moderately sensitive to any change in their viewing experience.
Low:	The VSR is only slightly sensitive to any change in their viewing experience.

· Identification of relative numbers of VSRs. This is expressed in terms of whether there are “many “, “medium” and “few” VSRs in any one category of VSR.

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

· Assessment of the potential magnitude of visual changes. Factors considered include:

o the compatibility with the surrounding landscape;

o the duration of the impact;

o the reversibility of the impact;

o the scale of the impact and distance of the source of impact from the viewer; and

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

· The magnitude of visual changes is classified as follows:

Large:	The VSRs would suffer a major change in their viewing experience.
Intermediate:	The VSRs would suffer a moderate change in their viewing experience.
Small:	The VSRs would suffer a small change in their viewing experience.
Negligible:	The VSRs would suffer no discernible change in their viewing experience.

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

· Prediction of the significance of visual impacts before and after the implementation of the mitigation measures. By synthesizing the magnitude of the various visual impacts and the sensitivity of the VSRs, and the numbers of VSRs that are affected, it is possible to categorise the degree of significance of the impacts in a logical, well-reasoned and consistent fashion. Table 10.2 shows the rationale for dividing the degree of significance into four thresholds, namely, insubstantial, slight, moderate and substantial, depending on the combination of a negligible-small-intermediate-large magnitude of change and a low-medium-high degree of sensitivity of VSRs.

Table 10.2 Relationship between VSRs Sensitivity and Magnitude of Change in Defining Impact Significance

Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial	Substantial
	Intermediate	Slight / Moderate	Moderate	Moderate / Substantial
	Small	Insubstantial / Slight	Slight / Moderate	Moderate
	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
		Low	Medium	High
		Sensitivity of VSRs
Note: All impacts are Adverse unless otherwise noted with Beneficial.

· The significance of visual impacts is categorised as follows:

Substantial:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality.
Moderate:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality.
Slight:	Adverse / beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality.
Insubstantial:	No discernible change in the existing visual quality.

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

10.4 Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

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

10.4.1.2 The study area of the Project falls within the draft Ma On Shan OZP No. S/MOS/23 (gazetted on 16.10.2020) and the approved Shap Sz Heung OZP No. S/NE-SSH/11 (gazetted on 16.10.2015). The land use zones overlaid on the Project layout is shown in Figure 10.1. The land use zone to be potentially affected by the Project, i.e. “Government, Institution or Community” (“G/IC”) zone within the draft Ma On Shan OZP No. S/MOS/23, and the future outlook of the area is discussed and summarised Table 10.3.

Table 10.3 Summary of the Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

OZP Plan Title and No.	Land Use Zonings	Approx. Area to be Influenced	Current Planning Intention and Development Restrictions	Potential Change to the OZP and the Anticipated Future Outlook of the Area due to the Project
Darft Ma On Shan OZP No. S/MOS/23 (gazetted on 16.10.2020)	Government, Institution or Community (G/IC)	Approx. 0.35 ha	This zone is intended primarily for the provision of Government, institution or community facilities serving the needs of the local residents and / or a wider district, region or the territory. It is also intended to provide land for uses directly related to or in support of the work for the Government, organizations providing social services to meet community need, and their institutional establishments. The southwestern part of the site is subject to a maximum building height of 6 storeys whilst the northeastern part of the site is subject to a maximum building height of 1 storey as limited in the OZP.	Under the Project, all the aboveground main components are one storey building with a height of approx. 9.0m. It is predicted that the proposed Project would not cause significant changes to the anticipated future outlook of the area.

OZP Plan Title and No.

Land Use Zonings

Approx. Area to be Influenced

Current Planning Intention and Development Restrictions

Potential Change to the OZP and the Anticipated Future Outlook of the Area due to the Project

Darft Ma On Shan OZP No. S/MOS/23 (gazetted on 16.10.2020)

Government, Institution or Community (G/IC)

Approx. 0.35 ha

This zone is intended primarily for the provision of Government, institution or community facilities serving the needs of the local residents and / or a wider district, region or the territory. It is also intended to provide land for uses directly related to or in support of the work for the Government, organizations providing social services to meet community need, and their institutional establishments.

The southwestern part of the site is subject to a maximum building height of 6 storeys whilst the northeastern part of the site is subject to a maximum building height of 1 storey as limited in the OZP.

Under the Project, all the aboveground main components are one storey building with a height of approx. 9.0m. It is predicted that the proposed Project would not cause significant changes to the anticipated future outlook of the area.

10.4.1.3 Having reviewed the OZP, it is considered that the Project would be in line with the current and future planning settings and would not have any conflicts with the statutory town plan of areas.

10.5 Baseline Study

10.5.1 Landscape Resources

10.5.1.1 The details of Baseline LRs which will be potentially affected by the Project, together with their sensitivity are described in Table 10.4. The locations of baseline LRs are mapped in Figure 10.2 and Figure 10.3. Photo views illustrating the LRs within the study area are illustrated in Figure 10.4.

Table 10.4 Baseline LRs and their Sensitivity

LRs	Description	Sensitivity
LR-01	*Water Body at Nai Chung* This is an inshore water boundary adjacent to Nai Chung and comprises rocky shore and sand beach. Most of the area is associated with human activities such as fishing. This LR supports approximate 20 tree species. Trees species such as Hibiscus tiliaceus are commonly found, and patches of mangroves are recorded. It is a common landscape resource with local importance. The quality of this resource is high and the ability of this resource to accommodate changes is low. The sensitivity of this LR is considered as high.	High
LR-02	*Landscape Areas and Grassland within Developments* This LR comprises landscape areas within developments including roads, residential areas such as Symphony Bay and Sai Sha Villa, public facilities such as Cheung Muk Tau Holiday Centre for the Elderly, staff and students quarter of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, rural villages including Sai O and Nai Chung, Sai Sha Road development, carriageway and roadside amenities including urban plantation. Grasses are scattered within the area near villages and residential areas, and occasionally disturbed by human activities and sporadic cutting. This LR supports approximate 57 exotic and native tree species. Most recorded tree species were planted for landscaping purposes. Trees species such as Ficus macrocarpa, Maleleuca cajuputi subsp. ciumingiana, Delonix regia, Casuarina equisetifolia, Acacia confusa, and Lagerstroemia speciosa are commonly found within this LR. These trees are from young to mature in a range of 5m-15m high and 3m-10m spread. There is no Old & Valuable Tree (OVT) nor endangered and protected species identified within this resource. This LR is a common landscape resource with local importance. The quality of this resource is medium and the ability of this resource to accommodate changes is medium. The sensitivity of this LR is considered as medium.	Medium
LR-03	*Woodland* *and Mixed Woodland on Natural Slopes at Nai Chung and Sai O* Woodland and mixed woodland on existing natural slopes at Nai Chung and Sai O comprise mature trees and understory vegetation. Vegetation found is dominated by common native species in woodlands of Hong Kong. This LR comprises woodlands at the northern and southern fringe of the terrestrial area, and mixed woodlands at the southwest of the terrestrial area within the Study Area. This LR supports approximate 107 tree species. The trees are estimated to be 20-30 years old with an average height between 10m-12m or above. Tree species such as Cinnamomum camphora, Psychotria asiatica, Celtis sinensis, Acacia confusa and Casuarina equisetifolia are commonly found within this LR. Among the recorded species, several individuals of Aquilaria sinensis and Pavetta hongkongensis are of conservation interest. It is a natural landscape resource of local importance. The quality of these resources is high. The ability to accommodate changes is low and the sensitivity of this LR is considered as high.	High
LR-04	*Shrubland* *and Mixed Woodland* This LR comprises of shrubs and mixed woodland at the northern and eastern fringe of the terrestrial area within the Study Area. This LR supports approximate 30 tree species. These trees are from young to mature with an average height between 8m-10m and spread between 2m-8m. Trees species such as Hibiscus tiliaceus, Mallotus paniculatus and Celtis sinensis are commonly found within this LR. This is a common resource of local importance. The quality of these resources is moderate. The ability to accommodate changes is medium and the sensitivity of this LR is considered as medium.	Medium

10.5.2 Landscape Character Areas (LCAs)

10.5.2.1 The details of Baseline LCAs which will be potentially affected by the Project, together with their sensitivity are described in Table 10.5. The locations of baseline LCAs are mapped in Figure 10.5 and Figure 10.6. Photo views illustrating the LCAs within the study area are illustrated in Figure 10.7.

Table 10.5 Baseline LCAs and their Sensitivity

LCAs	Description	Sensitivity
LCA-01	*Nai Chung Inshore Water Landscape* This LCA is an area of coastal water lying close to the shore and enclosed by landmasses which create a limited sense of enclosure or containment. This is a common landscape character in Hong Kong which has low ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity of this LCA is therefore considered as high.	High
LCA-02	*Sai O Miscellaneous Urban Fringe Landscape* This LCA is found on the periphery of the urban area in Sai O. It is characterised by the scattered village houses at Sai O, residential development of Symphony Bay and Sai Sha Road Development. They are transitional landscapes which are characterised by a diverse range of features, significant vegetation cover and incoherent human structures with features having little formal relationship to each other. This LCA has medium ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity of this LCA is considered as medium.	Medium
LCA-03	*Shap Sze Heung* *Hillside Landscape* This LCA consists of hillsides, knolls, ridges and spurs in Shap Sze Heung. It contains few human features and retains a rugged, tranquil character, with rocky outcrops or boulder fields and muted natural colours. Woodland is found at the lower slopes. This LCA has low ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity of this LCA is considered as high.	High
LCA-04	*Nai Chung Rural Coastal Plain Landscape* This LCA is characterized by expansive lowland landscapes which adjoins the coast. Nai Chung Old Villages and blocks of woodland are scattered across these plains, connected by winding lanes and footpaths. This is a common landscape with local importance. This LCA has medium ability to accommodate change. The sensitivity of this LCA is considered as medium.	Medium

10.5.3 Broad Brush Tree Survey

10.5.3.1 Within the Project boundary, 86 nos. of trees were surveyed. The dominant tree species include Eucalyptus urophylla, Leucaena leucocephala, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Cinnamomum burmannii and Bridelia tomentosa. They are generally of mature size. There is no OVT identified within the Project Area. All tree species surveyed are common in Hong Kong. There is no tree of specific conservation interest within the Project Area.

10.5.3.2 Among 86 nos. of trees surveyed, 21 nos. of them can be retained in-situ. Nevertheless, 65 nos. of trees are proposed to be felled based on the following principles:

(i) Dead trees;

(ii) Weedy species (Leucaena leucocephala);

(iii) Trees in direct conflict with the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer Sewage Pumping Station;

(iv) Trees of unrecoverable health problem and are in poor condition – The trees possess Poor Form and share common defects such as leaning, broken branches and co-dominant trunk. These symptoms of dying back and health degeneration compromise their structural integrity / stability of these trees and present a potential hazard in the long term.

10.5.3.3 To compensate for the loss of greenery due to felling of 65 nos. of existing trees, 65 nos. of new trees are proposed on-site for compensation. To replenish the loss of greenery, vertical green wall and green roof are proposed.

10.5.3.4 The tree survey findings including tree felling plan, tree schedule and photographic record of existing trees are illustrated in Appendix 10.1, Appendix 10.2 and Appendix 10.3.

10.5.4 Visual Envelope

10.5.4.1 The assessment area for the Visual Impact Assesment (VIA) is defined by an Visual Envelope (VE) which includes all areas from which the proposed works can be seen, or the area forms the view shed formed by natural/ manmade features such as existing landform, built development and for example areas of woodland/ large trees. Due to the prominent lowland location of the study area, it gives rise to a large visual envelope which extends beyond the vicinity in several directions. The visual envelope of the Project is embraced by the natural hillside to the north west; Symphony Bay to the west; Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary to the south and the existing Pigging Station to the east. Within the VE, VSRs are identified to demonstrate whose views will be affected by the proposed works. This is achieved through a combination of detailed walkover surveys, and desktop study of topographic maps and photographs from various locations. The Visual Envelope of the Project is shown in Figure 10.8.

10.5.5 Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

10.5.5.1 Within the Visual Envelope, a number of key VSRs have been identified during construction and operational phases. They are listed, together with their baseline assessment and sensitivity, in Table 10.6 and mapped in Figure 10.8.

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

10.5.5.3 There are five key types of VSRs identified in the Visual Envelope of the Project, namely residential, instituitional, occupational, recreational and travelling VSRs. The identified VSRs represent the sensitive receivers that may be affected during the Project period, including residential VSRs who are living in the adjacent medium-rise residential developments in Symphony Bay; institutional/ residential VSRs who are living and working in Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, occupational VSRs at work in Pigging Station; recreational VSRs to Nai Chung Beach; and travelling VSRs along Nin Ming Road. The sensitivity of these VSRs mainly depend on the effect of their visual perception on their qualify of life for their duration of stay and are detailed in Table 10.6 – residential type VSRs are considered to have high sensitivity; Institutional type and Recreational type VSRs are considered to have medium sensitivity; and Travelling type and Occupational type VSRs are considered to have low sensitivity as its visual perception have less effect on their quality of life for their duration of stay.

Table 10.6 Baseline VSRs and their Sensitivity

VSR ID	VSRs	Type of VSRs	Number of Individuals (Many / Medium / Few)	Quality of Existing View (Good / Fair / Poor)	Availability of Alternative Views (Yes / No)	Degree of Visibility (Full / Partial / Glimpse)	Duration of View (Long / Medium / Short)	Frequency of View (Frequent / Occasional / Rare)	Sensitivity
VSR01a	Occupants in Administration and Education Block of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary	Institutional	Medium	Good	Yes	Full	Medium	Occasional	Medium
VSR01b	Residents in Staff & Students Quarters of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary	Residential	Medium	Good	Yes	Full	Long	Frequent	High
VSR02	Residents in Symphony Bay	Residential	Many	Good	Yes	Full	Long	Frequent	High
VSR03	Travellers along Nin Ming Road	Travelling	Few	Fair	Yes	Glimpse	Short	Rare	Low
VSR04	Workers in Pigging Station	Occupational	Few	Good	Yes	Full	Short	Rare	Low
VSR05	Visitors to Nai Chung Beach	Recreational	Medium	Good	Yes	Partial	Medium	Occasional	Medium

10.6 Landscape Impact Assessment

10.6.1 Sources of Landscape Impacts

10.6.1.1 The sources of landscape impacts in the construction phase would mainly due to the construction of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) including associated temporary works and removal of existing vegetation.

10.6.1.2 The sources of landscape impacts in the operational phase would mainly due to the operation of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer SPS.

10.6.2 Magnitude of Landscape Impacts

10.6.2.1 The magnitude of unmitigated landscape impacts associated with the construction phase and operational phases of the Project are assessed and described in Table 10.7.

10.6.3 Significance of Landscape Impacts during Construction and Operational Phases

10.6.3.1 The significance of landscape impacts, before implementation of mitigation measures, in the construction and operational phases are assessed and presented in Table 10.11.

Table 10.7 Magnitude of Landscape Impacts during Construction and Operation

ID	Description	Potential Source of Impact	Description of Impacts	Magnitude of Change (Large / Intermediate / Small / Negligible)
ID	Description	Potential Source of Impact	Description of Impacts	Construction	Operation
Landscape Resources
LR-01	Water Body at Nai Chung	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR-02	Landscape Areas and Grassland within Developments	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR-03	Woodland and Mixed Woodland on Natural Slopes at Nai Chung and Sai O	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LR-04	Shrubland and Mixed Woodland	Construction and operation of the proposed SPS	Based on a broad brush estimate, approximately 65 nos. of existing trees will be removed and approximately 3,500m² of shrubland colonised with weedy pioneer shrubs and grass will be lost during construction. Affected tree species include Eucalyptus urophylla, Leucaena leucocephala, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Cinnamomum burmannii and Bridelia tomentosa. They are generally of medium to poor form and fair to poor amenity value. Affected trees are in the range of 4-16 m high, 2-8 m spread and 95-320 mm trunk diameter.	Intermediate	Small
LCAs
LCA-01	Nai Chung Inshore Water Landscape	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA-02	Sai O Miscellaneous Urban Fringe Landscape	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA-03	Shap Sze Heung Hillside Landscape	Nil	Nil	Negligible	Negligible
LCA-04	Nai Chung Rural Coastal Plain Landscape	Construction and operation of the proposed SPS	There would be permanent but localized change in landscape character of the area due to the construction and operation of the Project. Approximately 3,500m² of shrubland colonised with weedy pioneer shrubs and grass will be lost during construction. Based on a broad brush estimate, approximately 65 nos. of existing trees will be removed and approximately 3,500m² of shrubland colonised with weedy pioneer shrubs and grass will be lost during construction. Affected tree species include Eucalyptus urophylla, Leucaena leucocephala, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Cinnamomum burmannii and Bridelia tomentosa. They are generally of medium to poor form and fair to poor amenity value. Affected trees are in the range of 4-16 m high, 2-8 m spread and 95-320 mm trunk diameter.	Intermediate	Small

Table 10.8 Magnitude of Visual Impacts during Construction and Operation

VSR ID

VSR

Source of Visual Impact

Viewing Distance

(m)

Compatibility of the Project with the Surrounding Landscape

(High / Medium / Low)

Duration of Impacts

(Long / Medium / Short)

Scale of Development

(Large / Medium / Small)

Reversibility of Change

(Yes / No)

Potential Blockage of View

(Full / Partial / Nil)

Magnitude of Change

(Large / Intermediate / Small / Negligible)

C^#

O^#

C^#

O^#

C^#

O^#

C^#

O^#

C^#

O^#

C^#

O^#

VSR01a

Occupants in Administration and Education Block of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary

As listed in Sections 10.7.1 & 10.7.2

30 m

Medium

High

Medium

Long

Medium

Small

Nil

Intermediate

Small

VSR01b

Residents in Staff & Students Quarters of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary

As listed in Sections 10.7.1 & 10.7.2

20 m

Medium

High

Medium

Long

Medium

Small

Nil

Intermediate

Small

VSR02

Residents in Symphony Bay

As listed in Sections 10.7.1 and 10.7.2

180 m

Medium

High

Medium

Long

Medium

Small

Nil

Intermediate

Small

VSR03

Travellers along Nin Ming Road

As listed in Sections 10.7.1 and 10.7.2

5 m

Medium

High

Medium

Long

Medium

Small

Nil

Intermediate

Small

VSR04

Workers in Pigging Station

As listed in Sections 10.7.1 and 10.7.2

5 m

Medium

High

Medium

Long

Medium

Small

Nil

Intermediate

Small

VSR05

Visitors to Nai Chung Beach

As listed in Sections 10.7.1 and 10.7.2

80 m

Medium

High

Medium

Long

Medium

Small

Nil

Intermediate

Small

Note:

#: “C” = Construction; “O” = Operation

10.7.3 Recommended Photomontage Viewpoints

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

· the viewpoints which cover the aboveground structure viewed from major publicly accessible viewpoint represents key VSRs or VSR groups who would be potentially affected by the proposed Project; and

· the viewpoints which shall be able to represent the worst case scenarios and demonstrate the compatibility of the aboveground structures to the adjacent visual context and illustrate the visual effect during day 1 without mitigation measures, day 1 with mitigation measures and year 10 with mitigation measures.

10.7.3.2 Based on the location of the proposed aboveground structures, proposed viewpoint from key representative VSRs are mapped in Figure 10.8 and the computer- generated photomontages to illustrate the potential landscape and visual impact of the Project is shown in Figure 10.11, Figure 10.12 and Figure 10.13. They are described as follow:

· Viewpoint VP1 illustrates the potential visual change due to the Project on VSRs southwest of the site looking from Nin Ming Road (VSR03 and VSR02);

· Viewpoint VP2 illustrates potential visual change due to the Project on VSRs north to the site looking from Nai Chung Beach (VSR 05); and

· Viewpoint VP3 illustrates potential visual change due to the Project on VSRs from Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary and along Nin Ming Road from the south and southeast of the site (VRS 01a, VSR01b and VSR04).

10.8 Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

10.8.1.1 The proposed engineering works have been designed to minimise any potential landscape and visual impact as much as possible. Unavoidably, there would be some potential landscape and visual impact. Landscape and visual mitigation measures are therefore proposed to alleviate the potential adverse landscape and visual impact.

10.8.1.2 The proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures in the construction and operation are listed in Table 10.9 and Table 10.10 below, together with an indication of Funding, Implementation and Maintenance Agencies and illustrated in Figure 10.9 and Figure 10.10. Implementation schedule of the proposed mitigation measures is described in Section 13.

Table 10.9 Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures for Construction Phase

ID No.	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures	Funding Agency	Implementation Agency
CM1	Preservation of Trees Trees to be retained in accordance with DEVB TCW No. 4/2020 - Tree Preservation.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent via Contractor
CM2	Compensatory Tree Planting Any Trees to be felled under the Project shall be compensated in accordance with DEVB TCW No. 4/2020 - Tree Preservation.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent via Contractor
CM3	Control of Night-time Lighting Glare Any lighting provision of the construction works at night shall be carefully controlled to prevent light overspill to the nearby VSRs and into the sky in accordance with “Charter of External Lighting” and “Guidelines on Industry Best Practices for External Lighting Installations” promulgated by ENB.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent via Contractor
CM4	Erection of Decorative Screen Hoarding Decorative Hoarding, which is compatible with the surrounding settings, shall be erected during construction to minimise the potential landscape and visual impacts due to the construction works and activities.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent via Contractor
CM5	Management of Construction Activities and Facilities The facilities and activities at works sites and areas, which include site office, temporary storage areas, temporary works etc., shall be carefully managed and controlled on the height, deposition and arrangement to minimise any potential adverse landscape and visual impacts.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent via Contractor
CM6	Reinstatement of Temporarily Disturbed Landscape Areas All hard and soft landscape areas disturbed temporarily during construction due to temporary excavations, temporary works sites and works areas shall be reinstated to equal or better quality, to the satisfaction of the relevant government departments.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent via Contractor

Table 10.10 Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures for Operational Phase

ID No.	Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures	Funding Agency	Implementation Agency	Maintenance / Management Agency*
OM1	Tree and Shrub Planting to soften the proposed SPS Tree and shrub planting shall be proposed to soften the proposed SPS and enhance the landscape and visual amenity of the Project.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent	Project Proponent
OM2	Aesthetically pleasing design of the SPS The design of the proposed SPS in the regard of layouts, forms, materials and finishes shall be sensitively designed so as to blend in the structures to the adjacent landscape and visual context.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent	Project Proponent
OM3	Provision of Green Roof Green Roof shall be proposed to enhance the landscape quality of the proposed SPS and mitigate any potential adverse visual impact on adjacent VSRs.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent	Project Proponent
OM4	Provision of Vertical Greening Self-climbing species shall be proposed at metal fence wall to soften the proposed SPS and enhance the landscape and visual amenity of the Project.	Project Proponent	Project Proponent	Project Proponent

* Remark: The arrangement of maintenance / management agencies is subject to agreement with corresponding departments / parties in accordance with DEVB TCW No. 6 / 2015.

10.8.1.3 The construction phase mitigation measures listed above shall be implemented as early as possible to minimise the landscape impacts in the construction stage. The operational phase mitigation measures listed above shall be adopted during the detailed design and be built as part of the construction works at the last stage of the construction period 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 would not be appreciated for several years. Photomontages of the proposed Project without and with mitigation measures illustrating the appearance after 10 years of the proposed works are shown in Figure 10.11, Figure 10.12 and Figure 10.13.

10.9 Residual Impact

10.9.1 Significance of Residual Landscape Impacts

10.9.1.1 The potential significance of the landscape impacts during the construction and operational phases, before and after mitigation, is provided in Table 10.11. The assessment follows the proposed methodology and assumes that the appropriate mitigation measures identified in Table 10.9 and Table 10.10 above would be implemented, and the full effect of the soft landscape mitigation measures would be realised after ten years.

10.9.1.2 Under the Project, approximately 65 nos. of existing trees will be removed and approximately 3,500m² of LR-04 will be permanently lost. Affected tree species include Eucalyptus urophylla, Leucaena leucocephala, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Cinnamomum burmannii and Bridelia tomentosa. They are generally of medium to poor form and fair to poor amenity value. The magnitude of change is considered as intermediate. The sensitivity of LR-04 is medium. The resultant unmitigated landscape impact on this LR would be moderate during construction and operation. With the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, including compensatory tree planting and reinstatement of temporarily disturbed landscape areas, it is predicted that there would be moderate residual impact on LR-04 during construction, slight residual impact during day 1 of operation and insubstantial in year 10 of operation when the proposed tree planting becomes mature.

10.9.1.3 Apart from LR-04, it is predicted that there would not be any discernible change in other LRs identified within the study boundary of the Project.

10.9.1.4 There permanent but localized change in landscape character in LCA-04 due to the construction and operation of the Project. Approximately 3,500m² of shrubland colonised with weedy pioneer shrub and grass will be lost during construction. It is predicted that there would be intermediate magnitude of change during construction. Because the major aboveground structure of the proposed SPS is a one storey building with a height of approx. 9.0m, it is predicted that the magnitude of change during operation would become small. The sensitivity of this LCA is medium. The resultant unmitigated landscape impact on LCA-04 would be moderate during construction and operation. With the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, including preservation of trees, compensatory tree planting, control of night-time lighting glare, erection of decorative hoarding, management of construction activities and facilities and reinstatement of temporarily disturbed landscape areas during construction; and proposed tree and shrub planting to soften the proposed SPS, aesthetically pleasing design of the proposed SPS and provision of green roof and vertical greening during operation, it is predicted that there would be moderate residual impact on LCA-04 during construction, slight residual impact during day 1 of operation and insubstantial in year 10 of operation when the proposed tree planting becomes mature.

10.9.1.5 Apart from LCA-04, it is predicted that there would not be any discernible change in other LCAs identified within the study boundary of the Project.

Table 10.11 Significance of Landscape Impacts during Construction and Operational Phases

ID No.	LRs / LCAs	Sensitivity (Low, Medium, High)		Magnitude of Change (Negligible, Small, Intermediate, Large)		Impact Significance before Mitigation (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)		Recommended Mitigation Measures	Significance of Residual Impact (Insubstantial, Slight, Moderate, Substantial)
		C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#		C^#	O^#
		C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#		C^#	Day 1	Year 10
Landscape Resources
LR-01	Water Body at Nai Chung	High	High	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Not Required	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LR-02	Landscape Areas and Grassland within Developments	Medium	Medium	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Not Required	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LR-03	Woodland and Mixed Woodland on Natural Slopes at Nai Chung and Sai O	High	High	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Not Required	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LR-04	Shrubland and Mixed Woodland	Medium	Medium	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Moderate	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial
Landscape Character Area
LCA-01	Nai Chung Inshore Water Landscape	High	High	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Not Required	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LCA-02	Sai O Miscellaneous Urban Fringe Landscape	Medium	Medium	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Not Required	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LCA-03	Shap Sze Heung Hillside Landscape	High	High	Negligible	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Not Required	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
LCA-04	Nai Chung Rural Coastal Plain Landscape	Medium	Medium	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Moderate	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial

Note:

#: “C” = Construction; “O” = Operation

10.9.2 Significance of Residual Visual Impacts

10.9.2.1 The potential significance of the visual impacts during the construction and operational phases, before and after mitigation, is provided in Table 10.12. The assessment followed the proposed methodology and assumed that the appropriate mitigation measures identified in Table 10.9 and Table 10.10 above would be implemented, and the full effect of the visual mitigation measures should be realised after ten years.

10.9.2.2 Photomontages illustrating the potential visual impact during operation with and without mitigation measures from representative VSRs due to the Project are shown in Figure 10.11 to Figure 10.13. The potential visual impacts are assessed and summarised as below:

· Viewpoint VP1 from Nin Ming Road (VSR03 and VSR02) which is an at-grade view approximately 10 m from the overall Project site . During construction, 21 nos. of existing trees would be retained in-situ. Nevertheless, 65 nos. of existing trees, shrubs and grasses within the Project boundary will be permanently removed during construction. With the implementation of proposed mitigation measures which include provision of trees and shrub planting to soften the proposed SPS, aesthetically pleasing architectural design of the aboveground structures, provision of green roof and vertical greening, it is considered that the proposed SPS is visually compatible with the adjacent landscape and visual setting.

· Viewpoint VP2 from Nai Chung Beach (VSR05) which is an at-grade view approximately 80 m from the overall Project site. During construction, 21 nos. of existing trees would be retained in-situ. Nevertheless, 65 nos. of existing trees, shrubs and grasses within the Project boundary will be permanently removed during construction. With the implementation of proposed mitigation measures which include provision of trees and shrub planting to soften the proposed SPS, aesthetically pleasing architectural design of the aboveground structures, provision of green roof and vertical greening, it is considered that the proposed SPS is visually compatible with the adjacent landscape and visual setting.

· Viewpoint VP3 from Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary and along Nin Ming Road (VSR01a, VSR01b and VSR04) which is an elevated view approximately 20 m from the overall Project site. During construction, 21 nos. of existing trees would be retained in-situ. Nevertheless, 65 nos. of existing trees, shrubs and grasses within the Project boundary will be permanently removed during construction. With the implementation of proposed mitigation measures which include provision of trees and shrub planting to soften the proposed SPS, aesthetically pleasing architectural design of the aboveground structures, provision of green roof and vertical greening, it is considered that the proposed SPS is visually compatible with the adjacent landscape and visual setting.

10.9.2.3 There would be moderate residual impact during construction on adjacent VSRs. With the implementation of proposed mitigation measures, which full effect of the visual mitigation measures should be realised after ten years, including provision of trees and shrub planting to soften the proposed SPS, aesthetically pleasing architectural design of the aboveground strcutures, provision of green roof and vertical greening, it is predicted that the residual impact during the operational phase would be slight to insubstantial in day 1 of operation and further reduced to insubstantial in year 10 of operation when the proposed tree planting becomes mature.

Table 10.12 Significance of Visual Impacts during Construction and Operational Phases

ID No.	Key VSRs	Receptor Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)		Magnitude of Change (Negligible / Small / Intermediate / Large)		Impact Significance Threshold BEFORE Mitigation (Insubstantial / Slight / Moderate / Substantial)		Recommended Mitigation Measures	Residual Impact Significance Threshold AFTER Mitigation (Insubstantial / Slight / Moderate / Substantial)
		C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#		C^#	O^#
		C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#	C^#	O^#		C^#	Day 1	Year 10
VSR01a	Occupants in Administration and Education Block of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary	Medium	Medium	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Moderate	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial
VSR01b	Residents in Staff & Students of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary	High	High	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Moderate	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial
VSR02	Residents in Symphony Bay	High	High	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Moderate	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial
VSR03	Travellers along Nin Ming Road	Low	Low	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
VSR04	Workers in Pigging Station	Low	Low	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Slight	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
VSR05	Visitors to Nai Chung Beach	Medium	Medium	Intermediate	Small	Moderate	Moderate	CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, CM5, CM6, OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4	Moderate	Slight	Insubstantial

Note:

#: “C” = Construction; “O” = Operation

10.10 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

10.10.1.1 The detailed landscape and engineering design of the Project shall be undertaken so as to ensure compliance with the landscape and visual mitigation measures described in Section 10.8.

10.10.1.2 A baseline review shall be undertaken at the commencement of the construction contracts to update the status of landscape resources, character areas and VSRs.

10.10.1.3 Implementation of the recommended mitigation measures would be regularly audited during construction phase. Details of environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) requirement are discussed in the separate EM&A Manual.

10.11 Conclusion

10.11.1.1 During the construction phase, the key sources of landscape and visual impacts would mainly due to the construction of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer SPS including associated temporary works and removal of existing vegetation. During construction, 21 nos. of existing trees would be retained in-situ. Nevertheless, 65 nos. of existing trees within the proposed works boundary would be felled. To compensate the loss of greenery, 65 nos. of new trees are proposed on-site for compensation. To replenish the loss of greenery, vertical green wall and green roof are also proposed. The scale of development is considered medium as the works are localized and at low level. Generally, there would not be any potential blockage of view during construction. With the implementation of mitigation measures including preservation of trees, compensatory tree planting, control of night-time lighting glare, erection of decorative screening hoarding, careful management of construction activities and facilities, as well as reinstatement of temporarily disturbed landscape areas, no unacceptable residual landscape and visual impacts from the construction of the Project would be anticipated.

10.11.1.2 During the operational phase, the operation of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer SPS would be the key sources of landscape and visual impacts. With the recommended mitigation measures including proposed tree and shrub planting to soften the proposed SPS, aesthetically pleasing design of the proposed SPS, as well as provision of green roof and vertical greening, no unacceptable residual landscape and visual impacts from the operation of the Project would be anticipated.

10.11.1.3 While some adverse effects were predicted, these can be eliminated, reduced or offset to a large extent by specific measures. It is therefore concluded that the landscape and visual impacts are acceptable with the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures.

10 Landscape and Visual Impact

10.1 Introduction

10.1.1.1 This section presents the findings of the assessment of potential landscape and visual impacts associated with the Project.

10.1.1.4 The location and description of the Project are provided in Section 2.1 of this report. The alternative options / designs for the Project considered are discussed in Section 2.3 of this Report.

10.2 Environmental Legislation, Standards and Criteria

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

10.2.1.2 The Outline Zoning Plan (OZP) gazetted under the Town Planning Ordinance provides the statutory framework for land use development. Reference has been made to the Draft Ma On Shan OZP No. S/MOS/23 (gazetted on 16.10.2020) and the Approved Sha Tin OZP No. S/ST/34 (gazetted on 8.6.2018).

10.3 Assessment Methodology

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

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

10.4 Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

10.4.1.3 Having reviewed the OZP, it is considered that the Project would be in line with the current and future planning settings and would not have any conflicts with the statutory town plan of areas.

10.5 Baseline Study

10.5.3.2 Among 86 nos. of trees surveyed, 21 nos. of them can be retained in-situ. Nevertheless, 65 nos. of trees are proposed to be felled based on the following principles:

(i) Dead trees;

(ii) Weedy species (Leucaena leucocephala);

(iii) Trees in direct conflict with the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer Sewage Pumping Station;

10.5.3.3 To compensate for the loss of greenery due to felling of 65 nos. of existing trees, 65 nos. of new trees are proposed on-site for compensation. To replenish the loss of greenery, vertical green wall and green roof are proposed.

10.5.3.4 The tree survey findings including tree felling plan, tree schedule and photographic record of existing trees are illustrated in Appendix 10.1, Appendix 10.2 and Appendix 10.3.

10.5.5.1 Within the Visual Envelope, a number of key VSRs have been identified during construction and operational phases. They are listed, together with their baseline assessment and sensitivity, in Table 10.6 and mapped in Figure 10.8.

10.6 Landscape Impact Assessment

10.6.1.1 The sources of landscape impacts in the construction phase would mainly due to the construction of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) including associated temporary works and removal of existing vegetation.

10.6.1.2 The sources of landscape impacts in the operational phase would mainly due to the operation of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer SPS.

10.6.2.1 The magnitude of unmitigated landscape impacts associated with the construction phase and operational phases of the Project are assessed and described in Table 10.7.

10.6.3.1 The significance of landscape impacts, before implementation of mitigation measures, in the construction and operational phases are assessed and presented in Table 10.11.

10.7 Visual Impact Assessment

10.7.1.1 The sources of visual impacts in the construction phase would mainly due to the construction of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) including associated temporary works and removal of existing vegetation.

10.7.1.2 The sources of visual impacts in the operational phase would mainly due to the operation of the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer SPS.

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

10.8 Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

10.9 Residual Impact

10.9.1.3 Apart from LR-04, it is predicted that there would not be any discernible change in other LRs identified within the study boundary of the Project.

10.9.1.5 Apart from LCA-04, it is predicted that there would not be any discernible change in other LCAs identified within the study boundary of the Project.

10.9.2.2 Photomontages illustrating the potential visual impact during operation with and without mitigation measures from representative VSRs due to the Project are shown in Figure 10.11 to Figure 10.13. The potential visual impacts are assessed and summarised as below:

10.10 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

10.10.1.1 The detailed landscape and engineering design of the Project shall be undertaken so as to ensure compliance with the landscape and visual mitigation measures described in Section 10.8.

10.10.1.2 A baseline review shall be undertaken at the commencement of the construction contracts to update the status of landscape resources, character areas and VSRs.

10.10.1.3 Implementation of the recommended mitigation measures would be regularly audited during construction phase. Details of environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) requirement are discussed in the separate EM&A Manual.

10.11 Conclusion

10.11.1.3 While some adverse effects were predicted, these can be eliminated, reduced or offset to a large extent by specific measures. It is therefore concluded that the landscape and visual impacts are acceptable with the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures.