LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL APPRAISAL
A full Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) will be conducted. This appraisal will identify viewpoints from appropriate locations around the site to identify suitable areas for tree and hedge planting to enhance site screening and better integrate the development into the local landscape.
Given that battery projects generally feature low-profile structures, often resembling shipping containers, they exhibit lower visibility over distance when compared to wind farms or nuclear power stations.
As such, mitigation like bunding and screening can be effective at minimising views of the project.
TRANSPORT AND ACCESS
A Transport Statement will address traffic routing and volumes to minimise impacts on the local transport network during both construction and operational phases.
This plan will be coordinated with the local Highways Authority, a statutory consultee, before the commencement of construction.
The construction phase typically spans around 6-9 months, with the significant portion of HGV movements occurring early within the construction phase.
NOISE
A Noise Impact Assessment will be produced by an acoustic specialist. This will include baseline monitoring of the existing noise levels and modelling of the proposed development.
Noise generated during construction will be temporary and intermittent in nature. Once operational, noise is mitigated by distance to sensitive receptors e.g. residential properties.
Where required, mitigation measures (e.g. acoustic screening) will be specified to ensure there is no adverse noise impact.
BIODIVERSITY NET GAIN
A baseline assessment of existing biodiversity will be undertaken, along with an impact assessment of the proposed development.
The baseline assessment of the site's existing biodiversity quality will be utilised to identify appropriate biodiversity enhancements at the site which will enhance the biodiversity value of the scheme.
FLOOD RISK
A Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Strategy will be prepared to identify and mitigate for any fluvial, pluvial or groundwater flood risk to the site and surrounding area.
HERITAGE AND ARCHAEOLOGY
A heritage and archaeological assessment will be completed to evaluate the impact on heritage assets such as listed buildings, scheduled ancient monuments, battlefields and any potential remains of archaeological interest.