Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Limited TRITON KNOLL … · 2016. 5. 17. · Triton Knoll Offshore...

Environmental Statement

Volume 3

Chapter 3: Socio-economics, Tourism and Recreation

April 2015, Revision A Document Reference: 6.2.3.3

Pursuant to: APFP Reg. 5(2)(a)

Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Limited

TRITON KNOLL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Ltd Triton Knoll Electrical System Environmental Statement - Volume 3

Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Limited

Triton Knoll Electrical System

Preliminary Environmental Information Report

Volume 3: Chapter 3 – Socio-economics, Tourism and Recreation

April 2015

Drafted By: RSK Group/GoBe Consultants

Approved By: Kim Gauld-Clark

Date of Approval April 2015

Revision A

Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Ltd Auckland House Great Western Way Swindon Wiltshire, SN5 8ZT

T +44 (0)845 720 090 F +44 (0)845 720 050 I www.rweinnogy.com

www.rweinnogy.com/tritonknoll [email protected]

Copyright © 2015 Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Limited All pre-existing rights reserved.

Liability In preparation of this document Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Limited (TKOWFL), a joint venture between RWE Innogy UK (RWE) and Statkraft UK, and subconsultants working on behalf of TKOWFL have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the content is accurate, up to date and complete for the purpose for which it was prepared. Neither TKOWFL nor their subcontractors make any warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of material supplied. Other than any liability on TKOWFL or their subcontractors detailed in the contracts between the parties for this work neither TKOWFL or their subcontractors shall have any liability for any loss, damage, injury, claim, expense, cost or other consequence arising as a result of use or reliance upon any information contained in or omitted from this document. Any persons intending to use this document should satisfy themselves as to its applicability for their intended purpose. Where appropriate, the user of this document has the obligation to employ safe working practices for any activities referred to and to adopt specific practices appropriate to local conditions.

Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Limited have been awarded EU TEN-E funding to support the development of the Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm Electrical System located in both UK Territorial waters and the UK’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The funding which is to be matched will support a number of surveys, engineering reports, and environmental impact assessment studies for the Triton Knoll Electrical System. The studies will form part of the formal documentation that will accompany the Development Consent Order which will be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate. The sum of €1,159,559 has been granted and the process to reclaim this funding is ongoing.

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Table of Contents 3 Socio-economics, Tourism and Recreation ...................................................................... 3-1

Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 3-1 Statutory and policy context ................................................................................................. 3-2 Consultation and scoping ..................................................................................................... 3-6 Scope and methodology .................................................................................................... 3-13 Existing environment .......................................................................................................... 3-22 Key parameters for assessment ........................................................................................ 3-26 Environmental assessment: construction phase ................................................................ 3-33 Environmental assessment: operational phase .................................................................. 3-41 Environmental assessment: decommissioning phase ........................................................ 3-41 Environmental assessment: cumulative effects ................................................................. 3-42 Mitigation............................................................................................................................ 3-61 Transboundary statement .................................................................................................. 3-61 Summary of effects ............................................................................................................ 3-61 References ......................................................................................................................... 3-64

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3 Socio-economics, Tourism and Recreation

Introduction

3.1 This chapter of the Environmental Statement (ES) presents an assessment of the potential direct and indirect socio-economic impacts arising from the construction, operation and maintenance and decommissioning of the Triton Knoll Electrical System, for both offshore and onshore environments. Impacts considered include (but are not limited to) employment and economics, demographics, education and skills, quality of life, risk to health and safety, access, and recreation and tourism. The assessment is based on the proposed development details as presented in Chapter 1 ‘Project Description’ of both Volume 2 and Volume 3 of this ES, for offshore and onshore aspects respectively.

3.2 The following aspects of the socio-economic assessment have been scoped out of further assessment (as per the PINS Scoping Opinion received May 2014; Application Document 8.1).

• Operational impacts offshore (below Mean High Water Springs (MHWS)): PINS,agreed that operational impacts within the offshore environment should bescoped out of the assessment due to the buried nature of the cable and as anyemployment generated would be limited (shipping, navigation and commercialfisheries are considered elsewhere, see paragraph 3.5);

• All operational impacts within the onshore and landfall areas with the exception ofimpacts relating to quality of life, access, land use and tourism and recreation;and

• All potential impacts during decommissioning: PINS, agreed that any impactswould be, at most, similar to the construction impacts if not significantly less.

3.3 Further detail regarding the scoping process, responses and outcomes is presented in the ‘Consultation and scoping’ section of this chapter, including Table 3-2.

3.4 It should be noted that socio-economic impacts relevant to commercial fisheries are addressed in Volume 2 Chapter 8 ‘Commercial Fisheries’ and those relevant to shipping and navigation (including recreational sailing) are considered in Volume 2: Chapter 9 ‘Shipping and Navigation’. These receptors are therefore not considered any further within this chapter.

3.5 This chapter considers both the offshore and onshore environments relevant to potential impacts arising upon socio-economic receptors. It is therefore important to highlight that as a result of the overlap in the jurisdictional boundaries of the primary offshore and onshore regulators (namely the Marine Management Organisation and the Local Authority), there is a degree of overlap between the offshore and onshore

study areas between MHWS and Mean Low Water (i.e. the intertidal environment). Further detail pertaining to the study areas is presented in paragraphs 3.26 to 3.31, including a breakdown of which study area each socio-economic receptors falls within, to ensure clarity in the approach taken and the assessments presented.

3.6 This chapter draws upon the information and conclusions presented in a number of other ES chapters and therefore should be read in conjunction with these, namely:

• Volume 2 Chapter 2 ‘Marine Physical Environment’;

• Volume 2 Chapter 5 ‘Fish and Shellfish Ecology’;

• Volume 2 Chapter 11 ‘Archaeology and Cultural Heritage’;

• Volume 3 Chapter 2 ‘Landscape and Visual’;

• Volume 3 Chapter 5 ‘Land Use, Soils and Agriculture’;

• Volume 3 Chapter 6 ‘Geology, Hydrogeology and Ground Conditions;

• Volume3 Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Access’,

• Volume 3 Chapter 10 ‘Air Quality’; and

• Volume 3 Chapter 11 ‘Noise and Vibration’.

3.7 It should also be noted that elements of all onshore topics can be relevant to the consideration of socio-economics; these are therefore referenced as appropriate throughout this chapter. Volume 5 (onshore annexes), Annex 3.1 presents a detailed baseline (existing environment) relevant to the socio-economic study area; Volume 5 Annex 3.2 presents detail regarding the recreational angling baseline; and Volume 5 Annex 3.3 presents a study regarding the potential employment and economic impact of the Triton Knoll Electrical System.

3.8 The following sections of this chapter include:

• A summary of relevant legislation and planning policy;

• A summary of consultation with stakeholders;

• A description of the methodology for the assessment, including details of thestudy area and the approach to the assessment of effects;

• A review of baseline (existing) conditions;

• Details of the measures proposed as part of the project to avoid or reduceenvironmental effects, including mitigation and design measures that form part ofthe project;

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• An assessment of the likely effects for the construction, operation anddecommissioning phases of the project, taking into account the measuresproposed;

• Identification of any further mitigation measures or monitoring required in relationto likely significant effects; and

• Assessment of any cumulative effects with other proposed developments.

Statutory and policy context

3.9 Relevant national legislation is summarised in Table 3-1 and relevant elements of that legislation have been used to inform this chapter.

3.10 Planning policy for offshore renewable energy Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), and onshore transmission systems, is contained in the National Policy Statements (NPS), including Overarching Energy (EN-1; DECC, 2011), Renewable Energy Infrastructure (EN-3; DECC 2011) and Electricity Networks Infrastructure (EN-5; DECC 2011).

3.11 The NPS provide the principal policy framework within which decisions on NSIPs are made.

3.12 It is noted that EN-5 has no specific socio-economic considerations and therefore it is not considered further in this statutory and policy context review.

3.13 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (March 2012) is explicit that it does not contain specific policies for NSIPs which are determined ‘in accordance with the decision-making framework set out in the Planning Act 2008 and relevant national policy statements for major infrastructure’. However, matters that the decision maker considers important and relevant when making decisions on NSIP applications are also applicable, and may include the NPPF. Relevant guidance in the NPPF is highlighted in Table 3-1 below.

3.14 Table 3-1 also presents key details of relevant ‘saved’ local planning policy with regard to socio-economics, tourism and recreation (however the NPS remain the principal policy against which the proposed development will be assessed).

3.15 The onshore element of the proposed development falls within the planning jurisdictions of East Lindsey District Council (ELDC) (the landfall infrastructure, onshore cable and Intermediate Electrical Compound) and Boston Borough Council (BBC) (onshore cable, Substation, Unlicensed Works at the Bicker Fen substation and associated access tracks). Although the footprint of the development does not enter the jurisdictions of North Kesteven District Council (NKDC) or South Holland District Council (SHDC), the study area does. A brief policy review for each of these administrative areas has also, therefore, been undertaken. The entire area of the

Proposed Development Boundary, and the study area, is located within the jurisdiction area of Lincolnshire County Council (LCC).

3.16 With respect to the offshore environment, the geographical extent of the Triton Knoll Electrical System extends across the East Inshore and East Offshore Marine Plan areas. These two marine plans provide a clear approach to managing activities within their respective areas. Through policy requirements, they inform, guide regulation, management and use of the areas.

3.17 Chapter 2 of Volume 1 of this ES provides an overview of relevant legislation and policy for the proposed development. Table 3-1 below provides a summary of the legislation and policy relevant to the socio-economic, recreation and tourism aspects of the proposed development.

Table 3-1: Legislation and policy context

Policy / legislation Key provisions

Section where comment addressed

Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984

All Public Rights of Way (PROW) have to be kept open, cannot be obstructed and have to be usable; therefore a Traffic Regulation Order is required for the temporary closure of a PROW. A PROW is a permanent legal entity and remains in existence unless and until the path is extinguished or diverted by due legal process.

All PROW within the study area have been identified through review of the definitive maps held by Lincolnshire County Council. The impact of the proposed development on PROWs is discussed between paragraphs 3.118 and 3.128, and 3.167 of this chapter.

Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW)

Under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW), the public can walk freely on mapped areas of mountain, moor, heath, downland and registered common land. The public can walk, ramble, run, explore, climb and watch wildlife.

The CROW Access Maps have been accessed through the Natural England Website to identify areas of Open Access Land within the study area. There are no areas of Open Access Land within the study area.

NPS EN-1 Overarching NPS for Energy (Para 4.2.2)

To consider the potential effects, including benefits, of a proposal for a project, the examining authority will find it helpful if the applicant sets out information on the likely significant social and economic effects of the development, and shows how any likely significant negative effects would be avoided or mitigated. This information could include matters such as employment, equality, community cohesion and well-being.

The potential significant social and economic effects of the development together with appropriate mitigation measures are discussed within this chapter.

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Assessment of open space, sports and recreational buildings which may be affected by a development to be undertaken. Permission to be given only if the open space or the buildings and land are surplus to requirements or the examining authority determines that the benefits of the project (including need), outweigh the potential loss of such facilities, taking into account any positive proposals made by the applicant to provide new, improved or compensatory land or facilities. The loss of playing fields should only be allowed where applicants can demonstrate that they will be replaced with facilities of equivalent or better quantity or quality in a suitable location.

All PROW, and sports / recreational land within the study area have been identified through review of the definitive maps held by Lincolnshire County Council, consultation with various bodies, and secondary research. The impact of the proposed development on these amenities is discussed in the impact assessment section of this chapter, between paragraphs 3.115 and 3.125, and 3.167 for access and between paragraphs 3.126 and 3.161, and 3.168 and 3.169 for recreation and tourism.


The assessment of socio-economic impacts should consider the creation of jobs and training opportunities.

Beneficial impacts associated with creation of jobs and training opportunities are discussed within this chapter between paragraphs 3.101 and 3.107.


The assessment of socio-economic impacts should consider the provision of additional local services and improvements to local infrastructure, including the provision of educational and visitor facilities.

Appropriate embedded mitigation measures are presented within this chapter (see Table 3-8).


The assessment of socio-economic impacts should consider effects on tourism.

The potential significant social and economic effects of the development including effects on tourism are discussed within this chapter between paragraphs 3.126 and 3.161, and 3.168 and 3.169.


The assessment of socio-economic impacts should consider the impact of a changing influx of workers during the different construction, operation and

The potential significant social and economic effects of the development including an influx of workers during the



decommissioning phases of the energy infrastructure.

construction phase are discussed within this chapter in paragraph 3.108.

NPS EN-1 Overarching NPS for Energy (Para 5.12.3 & 4.2.6)

The assessment of socio-economic impacts should consider cumulative effects.

The examining authority should consider how the accumulation of, and interrelationship between, effects might affect the environment, economy or community as a whole, even though they may be acceptable when considered on an individual basis with mitigation measures in place.

Addressed under the cumulative impact assessment section of this chapter in paragraphs 3.109 to 3.202.


Applicants should describe the existing socio-economic conditions in the areas surrounding the proposed development and should also refer to how the development’s socio-economic impacts correlate with local planning policies.

Relevant local planning policies are identified in this table. The existing socio-economic conditions in the area surrounding the proposed development are considered and described within the baseline, presented in full in Annex 3.1 (Volume 5), and summarised in the in Existing Environment section of this chapter.


Socio-economic impacts may be linked to other impacts, for example the visual impact of a development is considered in Section 5.9 but may also have an impact on tourism and local businesses.

Cross references to other relevant impact assessment chapters made where applicable throughout the chapter. See paragraphs 3.49 to 3.51 for explanation regarding linkage between socio-economics and other environmental assessment topics.


The examining authority should have regard to the potential socio-economic impacts of new energy infrastructure identified by the applicant and from any

This chapter presents a socio-economic assessment of the Proposed Development.

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other sources that the examining authority considers to be both relevant and important to its decision.


The examining authority should consider any relevant positive provisions the developer has made or is proposing to make to mitigate impacts (for example through planning obligations) and any legacy benefits that may arise as well as any options for phasing development in relation to the socio-economic impacts.



The examining authority should consider whether mitigation measures are necessary to mitigate any adverse socio-economic impacts of the development. For example, high quality design can improve the visual and environmental experience for visitors and the local community alike.


NPS EN-3 Renewable Energy

Consideration to be given to recreational users or recreational/tourism-business operators of sea-based activities who may be affected by disruption or economic loss.

Potential impacts on users of PROW and recreational and tourism features are assessed in the impact assessment section of this chapter (see paragraphs 3.115 to 3.161, and paragraphs 3.167 to 3.169).

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF, Para 74)

Existing open space, sports and recreational buildings and land, including playing fields, should not be built on unless: • an assessment has been undertaken

which has clearly shown the open space, buildings or land to be surplus to requirements; or

• the loss resulting from the proposeddevelopment would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality in a suitable location; or

• the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the needs for which clearly outweigh the loss.

The potential impacts on recreational land are presented in paragraphs 3.118 to 3.128.



National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF, Para 75)

Planning policies should protect and enhance public rights of way and access. Local authorities should seek opportunities to provide better facilities for users, for example by adding links to existing rights of way networks including National Trails.

All PROW within the study area have been identified through consultation with the definitive maps held by Lincolnshire County Council. The impact of the proposed development on the identified PROWs is discussed in paragraphs 3.118 to 3.128 and the potential for closures/ diversions are identified.

East Lindsey District Council Local Plan 1995 (with Alterations 1999 and Saved Policies, 2007): Policy A4

Protection of General Amenities protects the general amenities of people living in the vicinity of a proposed development from unacceptable harm.

The potential on recreational and tourism amenities are found in paragraphs 3.118 to 3.128, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169.

East Lindsey District Council Local Plan 1995 (with Alterations 1999 and Saved Policies, 2007): Policy T4

Protects the foreshore at Mablethorpe and Skegness and allows for the development of tourist amenities or uses which are essential for or directly related to this only.

The potential impacts on recreational and tourism amenities are presented in paragraphs 3.147 to 3.164, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169.

East Lindsey District Council Local Plan 1995 (with Alterations 1999 and Saved Policies, 2007): Policies REC2 and REC3

Protect sport and formal recreation land and facilities including playing fields from development resulting in their loss. Should development proceed it should not harm the amenities of nearby residential areas because of its nature, scale, density, layout, appearance, lighting, noise or traffic generation.

The potential impacts on recreational and tourism amenities are presented in paragraphs 3.147 to 3.164, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169.

East Lindsey District Council Local Plan 1995 (with Alterations 1999 and Saved Policies,

Loss of Key Community and Social Facilities states that development which involves the loss of a community or social facility considered important to the community will not be permitted unless the continued use of the facility has been

There is no loss of community or social facilities by the Proposed Development. Community and social amenities is addressed within the recreation and tourism section of the assessment which

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2007): Policy CF2

shown not to be necessary in the long term; or in the case of a business it has been shown not to be viable in the long term and that it cannot be sold as 'a going concern'; or an accessible, replacement facility is provided elsewhere in the vicinity.

is presented between paragraphs 3.147 to 3.164, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169.

Boston Borough Council Local Plan 1999: Policy G1

Protects land users and residents from development that would substantially harm their direct amenities and the general character of the area because of its nature, scale, density, layout, appearance or level of traffic generation.

The potential significant social and economic effects of the Proposed Development together with appropriate mitigation measures are discussed within this chapter.

Boston Borough Council Local Plan 1999: Policy R1

Protects existing recreational open space.

The potential impacts on recreational land are presented in paragraphs 3.147 to 3.164, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169.

Boston Borough Council Local Plan 1999: Policy R5

States that development will not be permitted which may prejudice the establishment and recreational value of the proposed Witham Way footpath and nature reserve between Bardney and Boston along the former railway on the Eastern side of the River Witham, and its proposed terminus at the Witham Way Country Park at Tattershall Road, Boston.

The potential significant social and economic effects of the development on access, and recreation and tourism between paragraphs 3.115 and 3.161, and between paragraphs 3.167 and 3.169 and appropriate embedded mitigation measures (see Table 3.8) are discussed within this chapter.

Boston Borough Council Local Plan 1999: Policy CF2

Protects existing community or social facility from development that would lead to their loss.

Community and social amenities is addressed within the recreation and tourism section of the assessment which is presented between paragraphs 3.147 to 3.164, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169.

Boston Borough Council Local Plan 1999: Policy G6

Planning permission will not be granted for development where the proposed means of pedestrian and vehicular access are unsatisfactory.

The impact of the proposed development on access is discussed between paragraphs 3.118 to 3.128. Impacts on vehicular access are discussed in the Traffic and Access chapter (Volume 3, Chapter 9).

Boston Borough Council Local

Developments which will have an adverse effect upon the quality of soils such as to

The potential for land use effects is addressed in Volume 3



Plan 1999: Policy G8

lead to: 1) Harm to local living or working

conditions or the operation of nearby land uses.

2) harm to the natural flora and faun of interest in the locality; or

3) added constraints on future developments in the area.

Chapter 5 ‘Land use, soils and agriculture’.

South East Lincolnshire Local Plan, ‘Combined Preferred Options & Sustainability Report’ (May 2013) (Emerging) Policy 17

Renewable Energy. Large scale developments will only be supported where their individual or cumulative impact is not considered to have a negative impact on the development. Impacts include but are not limited to residential amenity and the local economy.

Addressed in the impact section of this chapter.

Central Lincolnshire Local Plan Core Strategy, Publication Version (July 2013) (Emerging) Policy C11

Health and Wellbeing. Provide a safe and attractive walking and cycling network that is integrated with public transport. Health impacts of major development proposals shall be considered early in the planning process through the use of Health Impact Assessments (HIA).

The approach to the assessment of health is discussed in Table 3-2, and in paragraphs 3.113 to 3.114, and 3.165 to 3.166.

Central Lincolnshire Local Plan Core Strategy, Publication Version (July 2013) (Emerging) Policy CL17

Delivering Prosperity & Jobs.

Jobs will be created during the construction phase of the Proposed Development. Beneficial impacts associated with the creation of jobs are discussed within this chapter in paragraphs 3.101 to 3.107.

East Inshore and Offshore Marine Plan policy – Economic Policy EC2

Policy EC2: Proposals that provide additional employment benefits should be supported, particularly where these benefits have the potential to meet employment needs in localities close to the marine plan areas.

The Proposed Development has the potential to provide additional employment benefits. An assessment of the potential employment and economic effects is presented in paragraphs 3.104as well as

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Section where comment addressed Volume 5, Annex 3.3.

East Inshore and Offshore Marine Plan policy – Tourism and Recreation Policy TR1

Policy TR1: Proposals for development should demonstrate that during construction and operation, in order of preference:

a) they will not adversely impact tourismand recreation activities

b) how, if there are adverse impacts ontourism and recreation activities, they will minimise them

c) how, if the adverse impacts cannot beminimised, they will be mitigated

d) the case for proceeding with theproposal if it is not possible to minimise or mitigate the adverse impacts

The potential effects on recreation and tourism are presented between paragraphs 3.147 to 3.164, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169.

Consultation and scoping

3.18 A Scoping Report for the Triton Knoll Electrical System (TKOWFL, 2014)was issued to PINS in March 2014.

3.19 In terms of the construction period, all potential socio-economic impacts were proposed to be assessed for the entire study area, including the offshore area, landfall and onshore area. During the operational period, potential impacts relating to quality of life, access, and cumulative effects were proposed to be scoped into the assessment for the landfall and onshore areas only.

3.20 Some potential socio-economic impacts for the landfall and onshore areas during the operational period were not considered to be significant and therefore proposed to be

scoped out. These included employment and economic activity, demographics, education and skills, risk to health and safety, and recreation and tourism. All potential socio-economic impacts for the offshore areas during the operational period were proposed to be scoped out. Socio-economic impacts associated with the decommissioning of the Electrical System at onshore, landfall and offshore locations were proposed to be scoped out as the impact is not anticipated to be significant.

3.21 Receipt of PINS Scoping Opinion in May 2014 (Application Document 8.1) indicated that PINS were in agreement with the proposed scope for consideration of impacts during construction and decommissioning. However, there was a recommendation that risk to health and safety for the onshore elements, and recreation and tourism for the onshore and landfall elements of the project, be scoped back into the consideration of impacts during the operational phase.

3.22 It is noted at this stage that, although land use was proposed to be considered as part of the socio-economic, recreation and tourism assessment, following receipt of the Scoping Opinion, land use is being assessed separately and is presented in Volume 3 Chapter 5 ‘Land Use, Soils and Agriculture’. Therefore, it is no longer being included as a named sub-topic for assessment within this socio-economic assessment chapter. Nevertheless, impacts identified in Chapter 5 are used to inform the impact on quality of life for human receptors in this chapter.

3.23 A Preliminary Environmental Information (PEI) Report for the Triton Knoll Electrical System was issued by RWE for comment in October 2014 as part of the formal consultation with statutory bodies, landowners and communities on the electrical system under the Planning Act 2008.

3.24 Table 3-2 below summarises the issues relevant to this chapter that have been highlighted by consultees and indicates how these issues have been addressed within this ES or how the applicant has had regard to them. Full details of all consultation in relation to the project are set out within the Consultation Report (Application Document 5.1).

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Table 3-2: Summary of consultation relating to Socio-Economics, Tourism and Recreation

Date and consultation phase/ type Consultation and key issues raised Section where comment addressed

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (East Lindsey District Council)

• There needs to be an assessment of the impacts of the development on localfootpaths, bridleways, tracks, coastal access paths and rights of way and their usersduring the construction phase and afterwards. Advised to contact Jonathan Stockdaleat LCC re footpaths. ELDC advise that the Natural England (NE) responses andrequests are incorporated into the assessment.

• Requires the identification of and addressing of any impact of the development on thesocio-economics of the area, including effects on local residents, those working in thearea and those visitors to the area.

• Needs to be a consideration of the effects of traffic, construction activities and noiseand disturbance during the construction phase should be assessed and mitigationmeasures suggested where appropriate.

Access issues are addressed between paragraphs 3.118 and 3.128, and in paragraph 3.167.

These issues are addressed between paragraphs 3.101 and 3.169.

Potential for disturbance during construction with regard to traffic is addressed in Volume 3 Chapter 9 and Volume 3 Chapter 11.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Lincolnshire County Council)

• Would like socio-economic assessment to include detail relating to LincolnshireCoastal Country Park (LCCP) in the baseline, namely, information from recent baseline study, baseline visitor survey and year 1 visitor survey results which are available onrequest from Lincolnshire County Council (Environmental Services).

• Would like visitor data specifically relating to Anderby Creek included• Reflect the fact that a number of PROW exist within the scoping boundary in the LCCP

area where countryside access is being promoted.• Alternative access routes to the proposed landfall area at Anderby Creek may also

affect access to facilities within the LCCP during the construction phase (e.g. MarshYard to the north and Wolla Bank to the south).

• Correct and accurate description of the beach in the landfall area required.• Would also like to see mitigation for disruption to coastal facilities and access routes

for the duration of construction.

Detail relating to LCCP and the beach at Anderby Creek are presented in the Socio-Economic Baseline Report (Volume 5, Annex 3.1).

Detail relating to the beach at Anderby Creek is presented in the Socio-Economic Baseline Report (Volume 5, Annex 3.1).

PROW directly affected by the Proposed Development Boundary and those within the wider study area have been identified and are considered in the assessment between paragraphs 3.115 and 3.125, and in paragraph 3.167.

Detail relating to the beach at Anderby Creek is presented in the Socio-Economic Baseline Report (Volume 5, Annex 3.1).

The Outline Construction Method Statement (Application Document 8.7.1) proposes specific mitigation options to minimise the impact on Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marsh in specific areas. This mitigation is not specific to the topic of socio-economics.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Natural England)

• EIA should consider potential impacts on access land, public open land, rights of wayand coastal access routes in the vicinity of the development.

• Recommends reference to the relevant ROWIP to identify public rights of way within oradjacent to the proposed site that should be maintained or enhanced.

• Encourage use of embedded mitigation to encourage access to the countryside forquiet enjoyment. Examples given include reinstating existing footpaths together withthe creation of new footpaths and bridleways are to be encouraged.

• NE request that links to other green networks and, where appropriate, urban fringeareas are explored to help promote the creation of wider green infrastructure. Relevant

The assessment on access land, public open land, rights of way and coastal access routes is presented in paragraphs 3.115 and 3.125, and in paragraph 3.167, within this chapter.

Coverage of relevant aspects of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) is presented in the Socio-Economic Baseline Study (Volume 5, Annex 3.1).

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aspects of local authority green infrastructure strategies should be incorporated where appropriate.

Embedded mitigation relevant to socio-economics and tourism is presented in Table 3-8 of this chapter. The Outline Construction Method Statement (Application Document 8.7.1) proposes specific mitigation options to minimise the impact on Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marsh in specific areas. The mitigation presented with regard to LCGM is not specific to the topic of socio-economics.

Consideration links of green networks and urban fringe areas were considered as part of policy review process and considered in project design.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Norfolk County Council)

• Would like the EIA to consider the likely impacts on Norfolk’s tourism sector. • Would be helpful if the EIA/PEIR could provide accurate figures of those likely to be

employed both during construction and once the Wind Farm is fully operational. There should also be a statement as to whether the labour would be sourced from local firms or if expertise would need to be imported to the region.

• The ES should provide an indication of the likely impact on the local fishing industry particularly when other proposals are taken into account

• The EIA should indicate that suitable navigation and shipping mitigation measures can be agreed with the appropriate regulatory bodies to ensure that Norfolk’s Ports (King’s Lynn and Wells) are not adversely affected

Consideration of the region in terms of economics and tourism impact is presented, in particular with regard to offshore impacts. This is discussed in more detail in the Socio-Economic Baseline Study (Volume 5, Annex 3.1) and in paragraphs 3.126 to 3.161, and between paragraphs 3.168 and 3.169 within this chapter.

It is noted that the offshore array, in terms of the turbines, has already been approved and does not constitute part of this assessment. However, employment linked to all aspects of the Triton Knoll Electrical System, including the offshore element, is considered in the impact assessment section of this chapter (see paragraphs 3.101 to 3.107).

The potential impact on recreational angling is presented in paragraphs 3.139 to 3.141 of this chapter. Consideration of commercial fisheries is presented in Volume 2 Chapter 8.

Shipping and navigation is considered in Volume 2 Chapter 9.

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Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Addlethorpe Parish Council)

• Queries whether the disruption to the land during construction will result in the land being productive in the future and raises concerns that the land has recently been recognised as being very valuable agricultural land by Minister of State for Defra.

• Raises concerns that the proposed development will be a nuisance and disrupt local people's lives for a prolonged time during 84 month construction period.

• Raises concerns that there is no proposed decommissioning plan to restore the land except to reclaim the cable.

Land use issues are assessed within Volume 3 Chapter 5, albeit the residual effects are used to inform the socio-economic, recreation and tourism impacts assessed in this chapter.

Quality of life is assessed and relevant text is provided in paragraphs 3.110 to 3.112, and paragraphs 3.163 to 3.164 within this chapter. Potential impact on quality of life has been informed by the landscape chapter (Volume 3, Chapter 2), traffic chapter (Volume 3, Chapter 9), air quality (Volume 3, Chapter 10) and noise chapter (Volume 3, Chapter 11).

Decommissioning has been scoped out of the socio-economic assessment; detail relating to decommissioning is presented in Chapter 1 Project Description of both Volume 2 and Volume 3.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Anderby Parish Council)

• Raises concerns regarding the impact on tourism and recreation, particularly at the point of landfall. Key features include the beach and Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park, and its uses, including for walking and dog-walking (on the dog-friendly section) and general recreational use.

• Concern raised with regard to the impacts on Cloud Bar and Round Round Bird Hide. Concern raised with regard to projects which are planned with a view to prolonging the holiday season into the winter months.

Recreational and tourism impacts are addressed between paragraphs 3.126 to 3.161, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169. All relevant recreational and tourism features and attractions affected by the Proposed Development Boundary are considered – see the Socio-Economic Baseline Study (Volume 5, Annex 3.1) for detail.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Willoughby Parish Council)

• Raises concerns regarding the impact on tourism and recreation, particularly at the point of landfall. Key features include the beach and Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park, and its uses, including for walking and dog-walking (on the dog-friendly section) and general recreational use.

• Concern raised with regard to the impacts on Cloud Bar and Round and Round Bird Hide. Concern raised with regard to projects which are planned with a view to prolonging the holiday season into the winter months.

• Raises concern that tourists would experience access difficulties as a result of the proposed development due to the proposed use of road infrastructure during the construction period.

Recreational and tourism impacts are addressed between paragraphs 3.126 to 3.161, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169. All relevant recreational and tourism features and attractions affected by the Proposed Development Boundary are considered – see the Socio-Economic Baseline Study (Volume 5 Annex 3.1) for detail.

The assessment on access land, public open land, rights of way and coastal access routes is presented in paragraphs 3.115 to 3.125, and 3.167, within this chapter. Residual traffic and transport effects are used to inform the socio-economic, recreation and tourism, including access, assessment in this chapter, as is presented between paragraphs 3.126 to 3.161, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169. Traffic is addressed in detail in Volume 3 Chapter 9.

In addition, the Outline Construction Method Statement

3-9



(Application Document 8.7.1) proposes specific mitigation options to minimise the impact on Lincolnshire Coastal Grazing Marsh in specific areas. The mitigation presented with regard to LCGM is not specific to the topic of socio-economics.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Orby Parish Council)

• Raises concerns relating to the proposed use of the rural roads in the locality,especially in relation to the health and safety consideration when coupled with thetourism traffic.

• Notes that footpaths should be protected in the village.• Raises concerns that enjoyment of the area by residents and tourists will be impacted

by the construction of the compound at Orby.• Concern raised with regard to the impact of noise on residents during construction at

the compound which could affect their quality of life.• Concern raised with regard to the safety risk on the local roads during construction.

Linkage with traffic and transport assessment required to inform the conclusions of thesocio-economic assessment.

Residual traffic and transport effects are used to inform the socio-economic, recreation and tourism assessment in this chapter.

PROW directly affected by the Proposed Development Boundary and those within the wider study area have been identified and are considered in the assessment between paragraphs 3.115 to 3.125, and 3.167 of this chapter.

Recreational and tourism impacts are addressed between paragraphs 3.126 to 3.161, and paragraphs 3.168 to 3.169 of this chapter.

The impact on quality of life during construction and operation is assessed between paragraphs 3.111 and 3.114, and 3.164 to 3.165 of this chapter.

The issue of health is addressed in detail in other chapters, where relevant, including Volume 3 Chapter 6 ‘Geology, Hydrogeology and Ground Conditions’, Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Access’, Chapter 10 ‘Air Quality’, and Chapter 11 ‘Noise’. This chapter, Chapter 3 ‘Socio-economics, recreation and tourism’, identifies potential risk to health and safety as a combined effect on human receptors (see paragraphs 3.114 to 3.115, and 3.166 to 3.167). See final row of this table for further clarification.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Mumby Parish Council)

• Raises concerns regarding the impact on LCCP (Vision for LCCP, 2009). Mumby PChighlights that much work has been done to date in opening up footpaths in the localarea for the use and enjoyment by residents and tourists.

• Raises concerns regarding the accessibility of the area to tourists when thedevelopment is proposed to cross the A52 Skegness to Mablethorpe road and theA158.

Detail relating to LCCP and the beach at Anderby Creek are presented in the Socio-Economic Baseline Study (Volume 5 Annex 3.1).

PROW directly affected by the Proposed Development Boundary and those within the wider study area have been

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identified and are considered in the assessment between paragraphs 3.115 to 3.125, and 3.167 of this chapter.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Public Health England)

• Responding on the potential for health protection issues in relation to chemicals and radiation only. PHE requests that the EIA identifies and assesses potential public health impacts of the activities at, and emissions from, the installation. Assessment should consider the development during construction, operation and decommissioning phases. PHE indicate that the proposed methodology in the scoping report relating to how noise and air quality chapter propose to address health issues appears acceptable to PHE.

The issue of health is addressed in detail in other chapters, where relevant, including Volume 3 Chapter 6 ‘Geology, Hydrogeology and Ground Conditions’, Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Access’, Chapter 10 ‘Air Quality’, and Chapter 11 ‘Noise’. This chapter, Chapter 3 ‘Socio-economics, recreation and tourism’, identifies potential risk to health and safety as a combined effect on human receptors. See final row of this table for further clarification, and see paragraphs 3.114 to 3.115, and 3.166 to 3.167.

Scoping Opinion, May 2014 (Secretary of State)

• Reference to Skegness Stadium to be made. • Baseline data sources need to be the most up to date available.

Skegness Stadium has been included in the features of interest in the Socio-Economic Baseline Study (Volume 5 Annex 3.1) and considered in the impact assessment.

The baseline data sources have been checked and updated each time the wider documentation has been updated, i.e. after each EP meeting, and after the PEI submission / receipt of section 42 and 47 consultation responses.

Consultation meeting 15th May 2014 (Lincolnshire County Council)

• Queried the sourcing of employment, and the use of local skills. • The issue of cumulative impact in relation to employment and skill base between the

cable route and the development of the offshore array also raised.

Employment linked to all aspects of the Triton Knoll Electrical System, including the offshore element, is considered in the impact assessment section of this chapter in paragraphs 3.102 to 3.108. A background study is presented in Volume 5 Annex 3.3.

The offshore array, in terms of the turbines, has already been approved and does not constitute part of this assessment. .

Consultation meeting 15th May 2014 (Lincolnshire County Council, East Lindsey District Council, and Boston Borough Council)

• Requirement to discuss and agree approach to assessment, scope re construction/operation/decommissioning, impact rankings and mitigation proposals formally due to the fact that there is no defined regulation relating to socio-economic assessment to avoid potential discrepancies regarding approach and impact rankings which could otherwise be raised during examination.

The outcome of the discussions is presented in this chapter in paragraphs 3.36 to 3.54, Study Methodology.

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Post-scoping consultation, telephone call 30th June 2014; follow-up letter 7th July 2014 (Public Health England)

• Informed PHE of the proposed approach to health encompassing all sections that willbe addressed. Socio-economic assessment will present combined effects relating tohealth under ‘risk to health and safety’ and encompass the residual impacts presentedin noise and air quality, and in ground conditions and contamination.

The proposed approach has been taken and is presented in this chapter, and in other chapters within the wider ES (Volume 3: Chapter 6, ‘Ground Conditions and Contamination’, Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Transport’, Chapter 10 ‘Air Quality’, and Chapter 11 ‘Noise’).

PEI October 2014 (Norfolk County Council)

NCC, having been consulted on the Triton Knoll OWF Array , provided a copy of the section 42 response for the array, which indicated that this proposal, along with subsequent Round 3 offshore wind farm developments, will potentially bring significant economic gains to the Region in terms of:

• (a) potential jobs supporting installing and servicing the turbines;• (b) potential manufacturing of turbines and the possibility of existing companies to win

business (i.e. in the supply chain); and• (c) Increased port activity (e.g. during the construction phase and the servicing of the

turbines); andNCC acknowledged that there will be between 140 – 400 new full time jobs generated from this proposal, although the precise location of these jobs is uncertain.

Coverage of the impact on employment and economic activity is presented in this chapter, specifically within paragraphs 3.101 and 3.107.

PEI October 2014 (National Trust)

• The National Trust welcomes the approach to assessment of socio-economic impacts The comment is noted.

PEI October 2014 (Natural England)

• Natural England welcomes the consideration of the impact on the Lincolnshire WoldsWalking Festival and impacts on public rights of way network.

Lincolnshire Wolds Walking Festival has been considered as part of the baseline and impact assessment and is presented in this chapter.

PEI October 2014 (Public Health England) PHE1/PHE2/PHE3

• PHE indicate that they are broadly happy with the proposals and PEI report at thisstage of the project, and in the assessment approach taken to date;

• PHE indicates that the Applicant’s final submission should contain a section whichsummarises key information, risk assessments, proposed mitigation measures,conclusions and residual impacts relating to human health;

• PHE acknowledge that many of these issues are covered in other sections of thereport but would like to see a summary of these issues to ensure that public health isgiven adequate consideration.

Following receipt of PINS Scoping Opinion in May 2014 in which this issue was initially raised, follow up correspondence was undertaken in the form of a telephone call and a letter to PHE to indicate that the Applicant proposed to present the assessment of health within the specific sections which address particular health issues. This was proposed to be as follows: Volume 3 Chapter 6 ‘Geology, Hydrogeology and Ground Conditions’, Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Access’, Chapter 10 ‘Air Quality’, and Chapter 11 ‘Noise’; in addition, this chapter, Chapter 3 ‘Socio-economics, recreation and tourism’, identifies potential risk to health and safety as a combined effect on social receptors. This is the approach that has been adopted. See paragraphs 3.114 and 3.165, and 3.166 and 3.167.

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Scope and methodology

Study Area

3.25 The offshore socio-economic study area includes the TKOWF array area as well as the linear cable corridor (referred to henceforth as the export cable corridor) beyond the array boundary up to MHWS mark. The offshore study area also includes a buffer of 1 km extending from the export cable corridor, as depicted in Figure 3-1 and in Volume 5 Annex 3.1, Figure 1-1 (referred to hereafter as the ‘offshore area’). The activities associated with the construction of the Triton Knoll Electrical System are anticipated to be limited in extent and along a defined linear corridor (see further detail in Chapter 1 ‘Project Description’ of both Volume 2 and Volume 3), therefore this buffer is considered to represent the maximum area in which the cable installation works may result in potential impacts upon socio-economic receptors.

3.26 An onshore socio-economic study area extending 3 km around the Intermediate Electrical Compound and Substation boundaries and 1 km either side of the onshore cable route has been adopted. The onshore study area is shown in Figure 3-2, and extends to the Mean Low Water mark. The onshore baseline study area includes the Triton Knoll Substation and the Unlicensed Works at the existing Bicker Fen NGET substation (referred to as ‘onshore area’ hereafter).

The onshore and offshore study areas both include consideration of the area between MHWS and Mean Low Water and therefore there is an overlap in the two study areas. As a general rule, where an activity is primarily associated with the environment below MHWS (i.e. bathing waters and sea angling), it has been considered as part of the offshore environment and study area. All other receptors relevant to the coastalenvironment are considered within the onshore study area description (i.e. access and recreation and amenities relevant to the landfall area). To ensure clarity in the approach, Table 3-3 presents a high level summary of the primary socio-economic receptors and under which study area (or other ES chapter as relevant) these have been considered.

3.28 Regarding the description of the proposed development, unless specified otherwise, the term ‘landfall’ as referred to within this chapter incorporates both the works within the intertidal area and the works behind the sea defences (see further detail in Chapter 1 ‘Project Description’ of both Volume 2 and Volume 3).

3.29 Figures 1-1 and 1-2 of Volume 5 Annex 3.1 present the offshore socio-economic study area. Within this study area, the current socio-economic conditions, features and receptors have been identified. Volume 5, Annex 3.2 presents the baseline conditions applicable to recreational angling. Figure 3-2, presented as part of this chapter, shows an overview of the onshore socio-economic study area, and Figures 1-3 and 1-4 of Volume 5 Annex 3.1 presents the detailed onshore baseline study area.

3.30 Some wider economic effects resulting from the proposed development may be felt beyond the study area. They are acknowledged within this chapter where appropriate. For example, in order to facilitate a complete evaluation of offshore activities in the vicinity of the proposed project, the coastline and offshore areas approximately falling between Mablethorpe and Skegness have been considered for the purposes of the offshore baseline. With respect to the onshore baseline, the economic effects as a result of employment opportunities for the wider Lincolnshire county area are also considered.

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3.27


Table 3-3 Where socio-economic receptors have been considered / assessed

Socio-economic receptor Where considered Justification

Demographics and settlement patterns - offshore

This chapter - onshore study area

Consideration of demographics has been included as part of the onshore environment baseline as any resultant impact upon local resources is an onshore consideration.

Any potential implications for demographics and settlement patterns that are associated with the offshore and / or landfall aspects of the development are encapsulated within the onshore baseline / assessment

Demographics and settlement patterns - onshore

Employment and economic activity - offshore

Volume 2: Chapter 8 Commercial Fisheries The primary employment and / or economic activity which is strictly related to the offshore environment is commercial fisheries which is considered as part of the topic-specific commercial fisheries chapter. The potential effects upon recreation (i.e. charter vessels etc) is considered within the offshore recreation and tourism section of this chapter. Employment and economic activity is primarily an onshore consideration (noting the exception above). Any potential implications for employment and economic activity that are associated with the offshore and / or landfall aspects of the development are encapsulated within the onshore baseline/ assessment

This chapter – offshore study area

Employment and economic activity - onshore

This chapter - onshore study area

Skills and education - onshore

This chapter - onshore study area Consideration of skills and education has been included as part of the onshore environment baseline as any resultant impact upon local resources is an onshore consideration.

Any potential implications for skills and education that are associated with the offshore and/ or landfall aspects of the development are encapsulated within the onshore baseline/ assessment.

Skills and education - offshore

Risk to health and safety - offshore

Volume 2: Chapter 9 Shipping and Navigation, and Chapter 8 Commercial Fisheries

There has been no request to undertake an assessment of risk to health and safety within the offshore environment, however Health and Safety risk is considered in the commercial fisheries and shipping and navigation assessments where relevant. During construction onshore there is expected to be potential for some temporary effects on public health and safety.

Risk to health and safety - onshore

This chapter - onshore study area; Volume 3: Chapter 6, ‘Ground Conditions and Contamination’, Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Transport’, Chapter 10 ‘Air Quality’, and Chapter 11 ‘Noise’.

Access - offshore This chapter - onshore study area. Volume 3: Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Access’ addresses safety and practical considerations in relation to access.

It is recognised that socio-economic receptors relevant to the offshore environment require coastal access; however this is primarily an onshore consideration and has therefore been considered / assessed as part of the onshore study area. Consideration has been given to access tracks and designated routes within the wider onshore study area and potential impacts upon these have been assessed. Access - onshore

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Socio-economic receptor Where considered Justification

Recreation and tourism – offshore

This chapter – offshore study area Water based activities and receptors in the coastal and offshore environment that are primarily associated with the marine environment have been considered as part of the offshore assessment. Those activities/receptors comprise: Blue Flag beaches and designated bathing waters, recreational fishing activity (including shore fishing, boat fishing, charter vessels etc), diving and watersports

Volume 2 Chapter 9 Shipping and Navigation Recreational sailing and cruising (and consideration of impacts upon shipping and navigation generally) are considered separately as part of the shipping and navigation assessment

Recreation and tourism - onshore

This chapter – onshore study area

Land based amenities and recreation at the landfall and coastal areas that are primarily associated with the onshore environment – i.e. caravan parks, seaside tourism, beach use by walkers Land based activities and recreation that are purely onshore in their nature (i.e. golf courses, country parks and activities on land)

3-15

© Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2014 License No. EK001-20140601. Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2014. Not to be used for navigation.

Figure 3-1Socio-economic Offshore Study Area

SCALE: @ A3

Source: Global Land Cover Facility, www.landcover.org.

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© Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2015 License number 0100031673Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2015

Figure 3-2Social Constraints Plan Onshore Study Area

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WestLindseyDistrict

SouthKestevenDistrictSouthHollandDistrict South HollandDistrict

BostonDistrict

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00Chk App

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Legend:Study AreaProposed Development BoundaryAdministrative Boundary (District /Borough)Country ParkLincolnshire Coastal Country ParkLincolnshire Coastal Grazing MarshNational Trust PropertiesRegistered Common LandBoston Boat Cruise RouteNational Cycle RoutePublic Rights of WayPublic BridlewayProposed Route of Skegness ReliefRoadThe Water Rail Way

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01 01/04/2015 Revised PDB VA AJ KB


Data Sources

3.31 The most contemporary data available have been used to undertake the assessment. Local and regional planning documents and background studies, findings from associated consultation and publicly available data have all been used to define the baseline conditions across the study area. Secondary data sources include, but are not limited to:

• Business Register and Employment Survey;

• Census 2011;

• Construction Skills Network East Midlands;

• East Midlands Development Agency (EMDA) (as was);

• Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership;

• Humber Estuary Local Authorities Group;

• Lincolnshire Research Observatory, online facility;

• Lincolnshire Assembly;

• Local authority reporting and statistics collated and presented by and on behalf of Boston Borough Council, South Holland District Council, East Lindsey District Council, and North Kesteven District Council, as well as Lincoln City Council and Lincolnshire County Council, including;

• The adopted East Lindsey Local Plan 1995 (with Alterations 1999); and,

• The adopted Boston Borough Local Plan 1999;

• Nomis;

• Office for National Statistics (ONS);

• Ordnance Survey (O/S) Mapping;

• Public Health England;

• Sustrans;

• The Wildlife Trust;

• Tourism Information;

• Visit East Lincolnshire;

• Visit Lincolnshire;

• Visit England;

• Extant and emerging local plans and any associated tourism and leisure evidence base documents and papers, as well as high level tourism data (e.g. STEAM data);

• The socio-economics assessment undertaken for the TKOWF, strategic area of the Greater Wash included in Round 2 (R2) wind farm development and the Area 3 SEA (TWOWFL, 2012);

• Online information sources associated with marine recreation (including Blue Flag Awarded Beaches in England (Blue Flag, 2014) and the British Sub Aqua Club); and

• Triton Knoll Electrical System archaeological assessment (information on location of wrecks) (see Volume 2 Chapter 11 ‘Archaeology and Cultural Heritage’).

3.32 The following organisations have been contacted to contribute to the collation of baseline recreation and tourism information:

• Lincolnshire County Council Public Rights of Way Department;

• Visit Lincolnshire;

• Economy & Tourism Department East Lindsey District Council (Visit East Lincolnshire), which accounts for Horncastle Tourist Information Centre, Skegness Tourist Information Centre, Mablethorpe Tourist Information Centre, and Tattershall Tourist Information Centre;

• Boston Tourist Information Centre;

• Lincolnshire Local Access Forums;

• Skegness Hoteliers Association; and

• Local economic development partnerships, where relevant.

3.33 A report prepared by Regeneris Consulting (September 2014) has provided quantitative economic data regarding the study area and wider area, and has informed the impact assessment set out below. The full report is presented in Volume 5 Annex 3.3.

3.34 Though extensive use is made of the UK coastline as well as its inshore and offshore waters, quantitative data is limited. Leisure activities are described in general terms and it can be assumed that the intensity of activity reflects population density and distribution of amenities such as bathing beaches and marinas / harbours.

3.35 Figure 1-3 and Figure 1-4 of Volume 5 Annex 3.1 presents the identified baseline features along the onshore cable route and at the landfall area in detail, at a scale of 1:20,000.

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Study Methodology

3.36 There is currently no established EIA methodology for the assessment of socio-economic impacts in the UK. However, the following guidance has been used: “Guidelines and Principles for Social Impact Assessment” (Interorganisational Committee for the Guidelines and Principles and Social Impact Assessment, 2003). This has guided the initial range of issues which were considered for inclusion in the assessment scope. Consultation aided determination of the issues included in the scope.

3.37 The socio-economic, recreation and tourism impact assessment has been undertaken as a desk based exercise using information held within the public domain, aerial photography and consultation with relevant organisations in order to identify relevant receptors and features of interest which have potential to be impacted on.

3.38 No field surveys have been undertaken specifically for socio-economics. However, field surveys have been undertaken for environmental topics whose conclusions have informed the socio-economic assessment. These include landscape and visual (Chapter 2), traffic and access (Chapter 9), and noise (Chapter 11), which are all within Volume 3.

3.39 In accordance with National Policy Statement EN-1 (paragraph 5.12.4) the prevailing social and economic conditions have been collated for administrative council areas within which the study area is situated and the wider context of Great Britain or the UK (depending on the dataset). Baseline conditions are described and reference is made as to how the proposed development’s socio-economic impacts correlate with planning policy.

3.40 The baseline socio-economic analysis draws on relevant national datasets providing information on population, labour market and employment baseline conditions. The sources and date that the baseline information was published has been stated where relevant. The most up to date information available has been used for the basis of the assessment.

3.41 Baseline conditions have been collated in relation to:

• Employment and economics; • Demographics and settlement; • Education and skills; • Access; and • Recreation and tourism.

3.42 Baseline for health is not presented in this chapter due to the fact that the issue is dealt with in specific detail in other relevant chapters (Chapter 6 ‘Geology,

Hydrogeology and Ground Conditions’, Chapter 9 ‘Traffic and Access’, Chapter 10 ‘Air Quality’, and Chapter 11 ‘Noise’ (all contained Volume 3)). This chapter collates information from other chapters in relation to health and safety and presents a conclusion to the combined potential impact on human receptors during construction and operational phases.

3.43 The approach taken to the study methodology for the socio-economic impact assessment presented in this chapter was agreed to within the evidence plan process. Furthermore, the entire baseline content was reviewed by the evidence plan ‘Human Environment’ participants within which socio-economics was considered and agreed to (see the Evidence Plan Application Document 8.16).

Identification and assessment of impacts and mitigation measures

3.44 As there is currently no established EIA methodology for the assessment of socio-economic impacts in the UK or guidance on defining significance criteria, the ‘Design Manual for Roads and Bridges’ (DMRB) produced by the Department for Transport (DfT) published in 2008, has been used to guide the relevant receptor sensitivity and magnitude of impact criteria. The criteria used can refer to either beneficial or adverse effects. This has been stated within the impact assessment. The use of these guidance documents has been agreed to within the Evidence Plan process (see the Evidence Plan, Application Document 8.16).

3.45 An assessment has been made of the significance of effects, taking into account the importance / sensitivity of the receptor, the magnitude of impact, the duration / persistence of the impact and the likelihood of the impact occurring. Details of the criteria adopted are presented in Tables 3-5 to 3-7. As with the overall guidance documents, the assessment criteria has been agreed to within the Evidence Plan process (see the Evidence Plan, Application Document 8.16).

3.46 The criteria used to describe the sensitivity / importance of the receptor is defined in Table 3-5. In Table 3-7, red shaded cells (either Moderate or Major impacts) are defined as significant.

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Table 3-4: Sensitivity/ importance of the environment Receptor sensitivity/ importance

Description/ reason

Very high Very high importance and rarity, international scale and very limited potential for substitution. In terms of this chapter this would refer to the international economy.

High

High importance and rarity, national scale and limited potential for substitution. In terms of this chapter this would refer to the national economy, tourist attractions of national importance, national cycle routes and national trails.

Medium

Medium importance and rarity, regional scale, limited potential for substitution. In terms of this chapter this would refer to the regional economy, tourist attractions of regional importance, etc. Residential housing and settlements, and inhabitants affected. Recreational users and tourists.

Low

Low or medium importance and rarity, local scale. In terms of this chapter this would refer to the local economy, tourist attractions of local importance, rural areas valued for their tranquillity, businesses that could be affected economically. Workers active within study area.

Very low Very low importance and rarity, local scale. In terms of this chapter this would refer to other rural areas and non-designated areas used for recreational purposes.

3.47 The criteria used to describe the magnitude of impact is defined in Table 3-6. Table 3-5: Magnitude of impact

Magnitude Definition

Very High Irreversible, permanent impacts on the national, regional or local economy, tourism and recreation. Irreversible, permanent social or cultural impacts at national, regional or local level.

High

Substantial permanent impacts on the national or regional economy, tourism and recreation. Substantial, permanent impacts on the local economy. Substantial, permanent national, regional or local social or cultural impacts.

Medium

Temporary or permanent impacts on the national and regional economy, tourism and recreation. Permanent impacts on the local economy. Temporary national, regional or local social or cultural impacts.

Low Temporary impacts on local economy. Undetectable impacts on the economy at regional or national scale. Negligible or undetectable social or cultural impacts at all scales.

Very Low Barely discernible or no loss or alteration or characteristics, features or elements; no magnitude of impact.

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3.48 The resulting impact matrix is presented in Table 3-67. Table 3-6: Impact matrix

Rec

epto

r sen

sitiv

ity

Magnitude of impact

Very High High Medium Low Very Low

Very High Major Major Moderate Minor Minor

High Major Moderate Minor Minor Negligible

Medium Moderate Minor Minor Negligible Negligible

Low Minor Minor Negligible Negligible Negligible

Very Low Slight Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible

Note: red shaded cells are defined as significant impacts.

Linkages between socio-economic issues and other environmental topics

3.49 As noted in the sections above, there are a number of socio-economic issues addressed as part of this assessment which require information to be collated from the assessments of other environmental topics. This enables a full picture to be drawn and the subsequent ranking of socio-economic impacts to be as fully informed as possible.

3.50 The relevant residual effects from other environmental assessments within the wider ES are used to inform the assessment of the socio-economic issues listed:

• Quality of life; • Risk to health and safety; and • Recreation and tourism.

3.51 Only those residual effects which are significant after mitigation are considered. This enables the identification of any combined residual effect which may have an impact on socio-economic receptors, and thus require further mitigation specific to socio-economics to minimise the significance. Reference is made to the full assessment detail whenever information from another topic is presented later in this chapter.

Uncertainty and technical difficulties encountered

3.52 The assessment has relied on desk-based techniques to establish the prevailing socio-economic conditions of the study area, using available information, statistical evidence and projections gathered from publicly-available surveys and reports and consultation with relevant organisations. Though extensive use is made of the UK coastline as well as its inshore and offshore waters, quantitative data is limited. All reasonable efforts have been made to use the most up to date information in the baseline.

3.53 Employment figures associated with the construction and operational phases of the onshore works have been estimated, as presented in the Regeneris report in Annex 3.3 of Volume 5.

3.54 Despite the issues of uncertainty and technical difficulties encountered, it is considered that there has been an appropriate level of information to underpin a robust assessment for socio-economics. This has been affirmed through the consideration of socio-economics within the evidence plan process (see Evidence Plan, Application Document 8.16).

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Existing environment

3.56 The study area falls within the jurisdiction of five different Local Planning Authorities (LPAs), including LCC, BBC and ELDC, NKDC and SHDC. A comparison is provided, where datasets allow, with the county (Lincolnshire County Council, LCC), the region (East Midlands), and the national area (Great Britain / United Kingdom), depending on the source of data.

3.57 The study area is described at paragraphs 3.26 3.31 of this chapter. A full baseline study is presented in Volume 5 Annex 3.1. A brief summary is presented here.

Demographics and settlement patterns

Population Overview

3.58 The latest population statistics for the county of Lincolnshire held by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) 2012 indicate a population of 718,800 (Nomis, 2012a). Between 2002 and 2012 the population of Lincolnshire increased by 9.6 % which is higher than the figure for both the East Midlands (8.2 %) and Great Britain (7.7 %) (Nomis, 2012a; 2012b; 2012c; 2012d; 2012e; ONS, 2011a; 2011d). All of Lincolnshire's Local Authority Districts had an increase in population between 2002 and 2012. Boston has had the highest increase at 14.9 %, and East Lindsey the lowest at 3.4 %. All have exceeded the national average except for East Lindsey.

Age Profiles

3.59 There appears to be an increasingly ageing population within BBC, ELDC, NKDC and SHDC since 2002 (ONS, 2011a; ONS, 2013). ELDC presents the greatest difference from the regional average in each of the three age groups reviewed (0-19 years, 20-64 years and 65 years +); it presents the greatest proportional change between 2002 and 2012 of each of the four local authorities in focus. One observation of particular note is that the Lincolnshire Research Observatory indicates that the number of people in their 30s in Lincolnshire has fallen between 2002 and 2012 (LRO, 2014).

Population Projections

3.60 Population projections by Lincolnshire Research Observatory indicate that between 2011 and 2021 the population of Lincolnshire will increase by 11 % compared to 9 % nationally with a considerable percentage of this rise being made up of people over 60 years old.

Settlement Patterns

3.61 Lincolnshire is a sparsely populated county compared to the UK average (Lincolnshire Assembly, 2008). In particular, East Lindsey, which extends over 1,762km2, is the third largest district in the UK and one of the most sparsely populated with a population density of 78 persons per km2, with its 136,400-population spread among 200 settlements (ELDC, 2012). Census data from 2011 supports this conclusion, indicating 0.8 persons/ hectare in ELDC administrative area at the time of the census , which is below the county average (1.2), and well below the regional and national averages (2.9 and 27 persons/hectare respectively) (ONS, 2011d). Population densities of South Holland and North Kesteven are the same as the county average, with Boston being a little higher at 1.8 compared to 1.2 persons/ hectare, but all remain much lower than the regional and national averages.

3.62 The land through which the cable route passes falls predominantly within the ELDC administrative area. ELDC does not have a single major urban centre. Instead it has a number of small market towns which provide amenities for scattered villages and small hamlets. Louth and Skegness, are the two larger examples although both fall outside of the study area. The cable route also passes through BBC administrative area. Boston town is located south east of the cable route, and is approximately 4km beyond the study area boundary.

Employment and economic activity

3.63 The proportion of the population in each of the four local authority areas covered by the Proposed Development Boundary study area who are economically active, and also who are economically active but unemployed, is fairly similar to the county, regional and national averages. BBC and NKDC indicate a slightly higher than average proportion of people who are economically active and slightly lower than average proportion who are unemployed.

3.64 Agriculture has traditionally been the most concentrated employment sector in East Lindsey District, according to East Lindsey Economic Baseline 2010 published by ELDC; Lincolnshire is the nation’s largest arable and horticulture producer (Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, 2014). Employment in agriculture has declined in the period 2003 to 2008, with a loss of employment of 3.14% per year (Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, 2014); this trend is supported by a review of Census data for 2001 and 2011. However, agriculture is still considered a significant contributor to the economy. In 2012, agriculture contributed 1.18% to the East Midlands’ economy.

3.65 Recreation and tourism brought just over £1 billion revenue into Lincolnshire in 2012 (Greater Lincolnshire LEP, 2013). Based on Visit England statistics, recreation and

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tourism revenue has decreased since 2008 when visitor expenditure was £1.33 billion (Visit England (2009). In 2012, tourism was thought to employ approximately 39,000 people in Lincolnshire (Greater Lincolnshire LEP, 2013).

3.66 In summary, the Greater Lincolnshire LEP Strategic Economic Plan (2014) indicates that Agri-Food, Manufacturing and Visitor Economy each sit mid-table in terms of the proportion of the county’s employment which is provided by each of these sectors respectively. Agri-Food and Manufacturing each provide a relatively similar proportion of the GVA to the four highest employment contributors, namely Retail and wholesale, Financial & Business Services, Health & Care, and Public Admin, Education & Defence.

Skills and education

3.67 Key observations related to skills and education are as follows (Nomis, 2012a; 2012b; 2012c; 2012d; 2012e):

• Levels of qualification attained in Boston are significantly lower than the regional and national averages;

• Levels of qualification attained for South Holland and East Lindsey are similar to each other. The proportion of the population in both districts that has achieved NVQ4 and above is less than the regional and national averages but still above 20% in each district. The proportion of the population in both districts who have no qualifications is similar to the regional and national averages; and

• Level of qualification achieved in North Kesteven is higher than the regional and national averages, and higher than all of the other districts considered.

Access

3.68 Based on definitive maps provi

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