for inspection purposes only. air quality reportdistillation column rising to 19.5-metres; the...

Proposed Biodiesel Plant July 2007 Marshmeadows Co. Wexford Environmental Impact Statement

Malone O'Regan Appendices

Appendix F Air Quality Report

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STACK HEIGHT CALCULATIONS – Boiler and Process

1.0 Introduction

The HMIP publication “Technical Guidance Note (DISPERSION) [D1]” has been employed to determine the preliminary requisite stack heights for the boiler and process discharges to atmosphere.

The boiler data is based on two options of 100% gas oil and a second option of a 70:30 mix of gas oil to bioheating oil. Base data used are tabulated below:

PARAMETER BOILER STACK

100% gas oil

BOILER STACK

(70:30) mix

PROCESS STACK

Release temperature, Kelvin 553 553 288

Release velocity, m s-1 15.0 15.0 0.4

Release volume, Am3 s-1 3.3 3.3 0.0083

Pollutant release rate, g s-1

Methanol Carbon monoxide

Oxides of nitrogen, as NO2

Sulphur dioxide Particulate matter

- 0.181 0.290 0.308 0.090

- 0.181 0.348 0.370 0.108

0.03max - - - -

The main building will have a ridge height of 13.5-metres, with a separately housed distillation column rising to 19.5-metres; the boiler will be located in the main building.

2.0 The D1 Calculation

The D1 procedure requires identification of the major pollutants and determination of their respective guideline corrected for background concentrations from which the uncorrected discharge stack height is calculated that is then related to local building and structure heights. The distillation column at 19.5-metres has been taken as the dominant height-factor.

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2.1 For the BOILER (100% gas oil):

Pollution Index [Pi] is determined from D1, VIZ:

Pi = D x 1000 [Gd - Bc]

WHERE: D is the discharge rate in g s-1 Gd is the guideline concentration from D1 in mg m-3 Bc is the background concentration for a particular district/area in mg m-3

THEREFORE: Pi for particulate = 360 m3 s-1; Pi for CO = 3.18m3 s-1; Pi for SO2 = 790 m3 s-1.

Pi for NOx, as NO2 = 1933 m3 s-1;

The Pollution Index [Pi] for this scenario has therefore been taken as 1933 m3 s-1

The uncorrected stack height for buoyancy [Ub] is calculated from the Pi value and the thermal buoyancy of the discharge from:

Ub = 10a x Pib

WHERE: Q = heat release at stack exit a = -0.84 - 0.1.exp(Q0.31) if Q is >1MW b = 0.46 + 0.011.exp(Q0.32) if Q is >1MW

OR: a = -1.11 - 0.19.log10Q if Q is <1MW b = 0.49 + 0.005.log10Q if Q is <1MW

WHEN: Q = V(1 - 283/Td) 2.9

WHERE: V is the volume discharge at stack conditions, m3 s-1

Td is the discharge temperature, Kelvin

THEREFORE: Q = 3.3 x (1 - 283/553) = 0.55MW 2.9

AND: Ub = 3.5-metres

The uncorrected discharge stack height for momentum [Um] requires the calculation of the discharge momentum [M]:

M = 283 x V x w Td

WHERE: V is the volume rate of discharge in Am3 s-1

w is the efflux velocity in m s-1. Td is the stack discharge temperature in Kelvin

THEREFORE: M = 283 x 0.5 x 15.0 = 25 m4 s-2

553

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Um is then given by log10 Um = X + (Y log10 Pi + Z)0.5

X, Y and Z are calculated from M using equations given in D1, VIZ: X = -3.7 + (log10M)0.9

Y = 5.9 – 0.624 log10M Z = 4.24 – 9.7 log10M + 1.47(log10M)2 – 0.07(log10M)3

In this case derived values are: X = -2.3 Y = 5.0 Z = -6.6

SUBSTITUTING THESE VALUES:

log10 Um = 0.83 THUS Um = 6.85-metres

Then the final corrected chimney height [C] is given by:

C = H + 0.6[ U + (2.5H - U)(1 - A-U/H)]

WHERE: H is the building height/distillation column @ 19.5-metres above ground level U is the lesser of Ub and Um i.e. 3.5 A is given by Um/Ub i.e. 1.96

THEREFORE: C = 24.69 metres [ROUNDED UP = 25-metres]

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2.2 For the BOILER (70% gas oil; 30% bioheating oil):


Pi = D x 1000 [Gd - Bc]

WHERE: D is the discharge rate in g s-1 Gd is the guideline concentration from D1 in mg m-3 Bc is the background concentration for a particular district/area in mg m-3

THEREFORE: Pi for particulate = 432 m3 s-1; Pi for CO = 3.18m3 s-1; Pi for SO2 = 949 m3 s-1.

Pi for NOx, as NO2 = 2320 m3 s-1;

The Pollution Index [Pi] for this scenario has therefore been taken as 2320 m3 s-1


Ub = 10a x Pib

WHERE: Q = heat release at stack exit a = -0.84 - 0.1.exp(Q0.31) if Q is >1MW b = 0.46 + 0.011.exp(Q0.32) if Q is >1MW

OR: a = -1.11 - 0.19.log10Q if Q is <1MW b = 0.49 + 0.005.log10Q if Q is <1MW

WHEN: Q = V(1 - 283/Td) 2.9



THEREFORE: Q = 3.3 x (1 - 283/553) = 0.55MW 2.9

AND: Ub = 3.8-metres


M = 283 x V x w Td



THEREFORE: M = 283 x 0.5 x 15.0 = 25 m4 s-2

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X, Y and Z are calculated from M using equations given in D1, VIZ: X = -3.7 + (log10M)0.9

Y = 5.9 – 0.624 log10M Z = 4.24 – 9.7 log10M + 1.47(log10M)2 – 0.07(log10M)3

In this case derived values are: X = -2.3 Y = 5.0 Z = -6.6

SUBSTITUTING THESE VALUES:

log10 Um = 0.914 THUS Um = 7.9-metres

Then the final corrected chimney height [C] is given by:

C = H + 0.6[ U + (2.5H - U)(1 - A-U/H)]

WHERE: H is the building height/distillation column @ 19.5-metres above ground level U is the lesser of Ub and Um i.e. 3.8 A is given by Um/Ub i.e. 2.08

THEREFORE: C = 25.36 metres [ROUNDED DOWN = 25-metres]

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2.3 For the PROCESS:


Pi = D x 1000 [Gd - Bc]

WHERE: D is the discharge rate in g s-1 Gd is the guideline concentration from D1 in mg m-3 based on 1/40th OES of 333 mg m-3

Bc is the background concentration for a particular district/area in mg m-3 in this case <1 mg m-3

THEREFORE: Pi for methanol = 3.6 m3 s-1;

The Pollution Index [Pi] for this scenario has therefore been taken as 3.6 m3 s-1


Ub = 10a x Pib

WHERE: Q = heat release at stack exit a = -1.11 - 0.19.log10Q if Q is <1MW b = 0.49 + 0.005.log10Q if Q is <1MW

WHEN: Q = V(1 - 283/Td) 2.9



HOWEVER as this emission temperature is low at 150C, the default calculation is invoked with a minimum value for Ub applying calculated from:

Minimum Ub = 1.95.Q0.19

Ub = 0.296-metre


M = 283 x V x w Td




X, Y and Z are calculated from M using equations given in D1

HOWEVER when Log10 M is negative the default calculation is invoked with a minimum value for Um applying calculated from:

Minimum Um = 0.82M0.32

THUS Um = 0.13-metre Then the final corrected chimney height [C] is given by:

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C = H + 0.6[ U + (2.5H - U)(1 - A-U/H)]

WHERE: H is the building height/distillation column @19.5-metres above ground level U is the lesser of Ub and Um i.e. 0.13 A is given by Um/Ub i.e. 0.44

THEN: C = 19.43-metres [ROUNDED UP = 20-metres] but minimum guidance is H + 3-metres

THEREFORE: C = 19.5 + 3-metres = 22.5-metres]

3.0 CONCLUSIONS

3.1 The minimum height of the discharge stack for the BOILER has been calculated at 25 metres above ground level based on the initial data supplied by the burner manufacturer Saacke for the two fuel options assessed.

3.2 The minimum height of the discharge stack for the PROCESS falls in to default provisions leading to a value of 22.5-metres above ground level being determined.

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Appendix F1 Scottish Plant Odour Assessment

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Appendix G Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Report

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Environmental Impact Statement

Landscape / Visual

Project: Proposed Bio-Diesel Plant, Marshmeadows, New Ross,

Co. Wexford.

Client: Green Bio-Fuels

Environmental Consultants: Malone O’ Regan Environmental Services Ltd., 2B Richview Office Park, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14.

Landscape Consultants: BHL Landscape Design, Old Abbey Gardens, Waterfall, Near Cork City, Ireland.

May 2007

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EIS Landscape / Visual Proposed Bio-Diesel Plant Marshmeadows,New Ross, Wexford

BHL Landscape Design 2

CONTENTS

1. Introduction 04 1.1 The Planning Context 04 1.2 Implications for proposed development in relation to the Planning Context 06

2. Description of the Existing Environment – Landsc ape / Visual 09 2.1 Introduction 09 2.2 Landscape Character 09 2.3 Landscape Context 09 2.4 Topography 09 2.5 Hedgerows, Trees and shrub cover 09 2.6 Existing Buildings / Artefacts 09 2.7 Land Use 10 2.8 Intrusion on or proximity to listed viewers / landscape 10 2.9 Viewers 10 2.10 Views & Prospects 10 2.11 Change in landscape 11 2.12 Landscape character evolutionary track 11 2.13 Sensitivity of the landscape 11

3. Description of Proposed Development 12 3.1 Introduction 12 3.2 Characteristics of project 12 3.2.1 Process building, column tower and stack 12 3.2.2 Tank farm & cooling tower 12 3.2.3 Infrastructure 13 3.2.4 Landscaping 13 3.2.5 Phasing 13

4. Description of Predicted Landscape / Visual 14 4.1 Introduction 14 4.2 Description of predicted landscape / visual 14 4.2.1 Process building, column tower & stack 14 4.2.2 Tank farm & cooling tower 14 4.2.3 Infrastructure 14 4.2.4 Landscaping 15 4.2.5 Cumulative impacts 15

5. Measures Proposed to Mitigate Adverse Landscape Impacts Of the Proposed Development 16 5.1 Introduction 16

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6. Potential / Residual Landscape / Visual Impacts of the Proposed Development 18 6.1 Introduction 18 6.2.1 Process building, column tower & stack 18 6.2.2 Tank farm & cooling tower 18 6.2.3 Infrastructure 18 6.2.4 Landscaping 18 6.2.5 Cumulative Impact 19

7. Monitoring 20

8. Non-Technical Summary 21

9. Appendix One 22 9.1 Glossary of Descriptive Terminology Used in Relation to Impacts 22 9.1.1 Quality of Impacts 22 9.1.2 Significance of impacts 22 9.1.3 Duration of Impacts 22 9.1.4 Types of impacts 22 9.2 Glossary of Descriptive Terminology Used in Relation to Landscape

Visual Impacts and Landscape Measures 23

10. Appendix Two 10.1 Guideline Measures Relating to Existing Trees and Shrubs on Site 25 10.2 Recommendations with regard to handling of soil on site 25

11. Appendix Three Photographs

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1. Introduction

BHL Landscape Design were commissioned by Malone O’ Regan Environmental Services Limited to contribute to an Environmental Impact Statement addressing the landscape / visual dimensions of a proposed Bio-Diesel Production Facility development at Marshmeadows, New Ross, County Wexford comprising of the following

A process building, tank farm and associated infrastructure on a 0.87 Ha site.

The statement has been prepared in accordance with the following publications:

Environmental Protection Agency:

• Advice Notes and Current Practice 1995

• Guidelines on the information to be contained in an Environmental Impact Statement 2002.

Landscape Institute / Institute of Environmental Ma nagement & Assessment:

• Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2002

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Gover nment:

• Draft Landscape and Landscape Assessment Guidelines for Local Authorities 2000.

Wexford County Council:

• Landscape Character Assessment, CAAS Ltd. 2006.

Glossary A glossary of the terms used in this report is included in Appendix 1.

Methodology The methodology adopted in relation to the E.I.S. was as follows:

1. Review of early project documentation and drawings. 2. Review of relevant development plans. 3. Site inspection including viewing site from distant perspectives and

capturing photographic record. 4. On going review of project documentation and drawings as they were

produced. 5. Continuous consultation with design team

6. Revisions arising from request for additional information

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1.1 The Planning Context

This statement is prepared in the context of the following development plan.

The following extract from the draft Wexford County Development Plan 2007-2013 is of relevance to this section of the environ mental impact statement.

9.4.4 Landscape All aspects of natural, built and cultural heritage come together in the landscapes experienced in County Wexford. Landscapes give a sense of place. Identification with particular landscapes may contribute to a sense of wellbeing. In County Wexford the coastline and countryside are a source of pride, inspiration and well being for many residents and visitors alike.

Landscapes are continually changing. Change may be driven by natural forces (e.g. climate), but is largely the result of the actions of many different people and agencies. The challenge the Council faces is to manage the landscapes so that change is positive in its effects, so that the landscapes which are valued will be protected and those which have been degraded are enhanced. Ireland has signed and ratified the European Landscape Convention which entails a commitment to introducing policies to effect landscape protection and management. A Landscape Character Assessment forms part of this plan.

Policy L1 In assessing developments the Council will have regard to the guidance contained in the Landscape Character Assessment.Proposed developments should reflect the guidance contained in the Landscape Character Assessment and seek to minimise the visual impact, particularly in areas designated as Sensitive and Vulnerable Landscapes.

9.4.5 Woodlands, Trees & Hedgerows Trees are an environmental, economic and landscape resource of great importance and Irish conditions are particularly suited to rapid tree growth. Hedgerows, particularly those with a variety of plant and tree species are of particular importance for biological diversity in the countryside. The most species rich hedgerows are usually the oldest ones, and townland boundary and roadside hedgerows are particularly important for this reason. Species rich hedgerows are important habitats in their own right, and they also act as wildlife corridors for many species, allowing dispersal and movement between other habitats. Hedgerows are not only important for biodiversity, but have a farming, landscape, archaeology and cultural value.

Policy NH 1 The Council shall encourage the conservation and maintenance of features important to local landscapes including trees, hedgerows, stone walls, woodlands, ponds, streams and wetlands.

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Policy NH 2 The Council shall protect trees and woodlands of particular amenity and nature conservation value and make Tree Preservation Orders where appropriate.

Policy NH 3 The Council shall encourage woodland management and participating in tree and hedgerow planting schemes by community groups and others. Policy NH 6 The Council shall resist development proposals which would result in the loss of trees which make a valuable contribution to the character of the landscape, a settlement or its setting.

Landscape Character Assessment Report

The proposed plant falls within the River Barrow Policy Area which is a landscape within the Lowlands policy area. According to the report, the River Barrow is a highly scenic river corridor. Water courses are classified as sensitive landscapes in the report however the proposed plant is in an industrial setting which would also be classed as a robust setting particularly given that the proposed plant is on the edge of the designated zone and the fact that it is 350m from the riverside with other tank farms in between it and the river.

The following extract is from Section 7.0 of the La ndscape Character Assessment Report prepared by CAAS Ltd. for County Wexford. The policies are indicative and should be interpreted in conjunc tion with the landscape sensitivity of the area.

7.1. Lowland The Lowland Character Area contains predominately fertile lands with high levels of population and intensive land management (agriculture). The slope and topography in the area occurs in a shallow/gradual transition. Agricultural lands tend to be characterized by extensive views across large fields as a result of the generally low well-trimmed hedges. This character unit may be generally classified robust to normal, however sensitive areas or landscape factors can be found at specific locations. Within the Lowlands there are a number of important sub-divisions – and ‘landscape within landscape’ – as follows;- There are two areas of elevated lands – the North and South Hills – which contain concentrations of elevated areas that enclose or visually dominate the local countryside. Within these areas there are higher than normal concentrations of potentially conspicuous sites where additional vigilance will be required when evaluating planning applications. In contrast to the elevated areas there are two highly scenic major River Corridors – The Slaney and the Barrow – than transect the lowlands of the County. Of these the Slaney is the most exceptional on account of its extent, its centrality to the county and it’s unspoilt character. This is another area where additional vigilance will be required when evaluating planning applications.

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• Recognise that these areas are made up of a variety of working landscapes and contain the vast proportion of the Counties population within principle towns and on rural holdings. These also incorporate all of the major national primary and regional roads, and railways.

• Continue to permit development that can utilise existing infrastructure, whilst taking account of absorption opportunities provided by the landscape and prevailing vegetation.

• Encourage development that will not unduly result in detrimental impacts on the landscape at a local or micro level as viewed from areas of the public realm.

• Consider development on steep slopes, ensuring that it will not have a disproportionate or dominating visual impact on the surrounding environment as seen from areas of the public realm.

• Recognise the substantial pockets of residential and rural landuses in some locations and the emerging pressures for differing landuses of industry, wind energy and residential development in this policy area.

• Continue to facilitate appropriate development in a progressive manner that respects the scale character and sensitivities of the landscape.

• Recognise that in this low lying open environment, tall and bulky development sometimes can have a disproportionate impact against the landscape particularly when viewed from the predominantly low lying areas of the public realm.

• Encourage development that will not have a disproportionate effect on the existing character of the landscape in terms of location, design, and visual prominence.

The following extract from the New Ross and Environ s Development Plan, 2004 is of relevance to this section of the environ mental impact statement.

Hedgerows, Trees, Landscapes.

Policy

It is the policy of the planning Authority:

• To protect, preserve and ensure the effective management of existing trees, hedgerows and the landscape (including views) and ensure that new development is designed in order to preserve and enhance these features.

• To protect the natural character of the undeveloped portions of the riverbank and protect views across the river particularly where these are towards natural landscapes on the opposing side. Where development is proposed on such sites they should be accompanied by a brief, which examines the natural character of the site and shows how the development has been designed to accommodate and enhance the character of the site.

• That applications for development of multiple housing, commercial or other large-scale developments shall include landscape-planting plan. Such a planting plan should specify predominantly native species that will support

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local wildlife. Opportunities for habitat enhancement and creation should be examined. Options for linking wildlife corridors both within the site and with those outside the site should be provided for. The use of wildlife corridors should be considered along with ‘buffer zones’ and ‘habitat gradation’

Chapter 16 – General Site Development Standards

16.3 – Landscape/Vegetation.

All applications for major developments shall be accompanied by a landscape scheme. The landscaping scheme shall be designed as an integral part of the development and shall consider the following factors:

• The developer will be responsible for the grading, hard landscaping, planting and further development of open space, including the provision of footpaths, paved areas etc.

• Existing landscape features such as stands of mature trees, hedgerows, rock outcrops and water features shall be properly identified and retained where appropriate.

• Layouts will be required to facilitate the retention of the maximum number of significant trees.

• New developments will be required to consider the future growth, management and maintenance of the landscape and open areas. Planting needs to have a careful balance between quick-growing species for earlier maturity and longer lived trees that may reach their peak in up to 100 years time. The landscape plan and the section of plant species should consider low maintenance species. Native tree species are more valuable is wildlife habitat than species, because they support a greater variety of insect life. These will generally be preferred.

The planning authority shall require the developer to carry out the landscaping of open space. Security by means of a financial bond may be required to ensure the protection of existing trees on a development site or to ensure that a landscaping plan is adequately implemented.

1.2 Implications for Proposed Development in Relati on to the Planning Context

The site of the proposed project lies within the low-lying Barrow River corridor Landscape Character Area, but it immediately adjoins the higher ground of Policy Area 3 – South Hills and it is located within an existing portal area with buildings and structures of similar type. The zoning is for industrial use and the site is within a receiving landscape that has the capacity to absorb development subject to adhering to high standards of design and siting.

In response to Item 16.3 the proposed project includes a landscaping planting plan.

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2. Description of the Existing Environment Landscap e / Visual

2.1 Introduction

The assessment of the existing environment in relation to landscape /visual issues addresses the constituent elements, the composition and character of the site of the proposed development, the context of the site in relation to the surrounding landscape and the relevance of the site to the views and prospects available within the surrounding landscape.

2.2 Landscape Character

The landscape character of the site itself is low-lying infilled, marshy land and lies within the low-lying Barrow River corridor Landscape Character Area and it is located within an existing typical portal area with buildings and structures of similar type.

2.3 Landscape Context

The site forms part of a reclaimed river bank/riverside meadow area already developed for port related activities and is set within a very distinctive tidal river landscape- Landscape Character Area known as the Barrow River corridor - with the broad sweeping river Barrow fringed by reed beds and edged by mudflats at low tide, with a lowland agricultural landscape to the west and a narrow lowland agricultural landscape in transition to commercial services use to the south, a narrow lowland agricultural landscape in more advanced transition to commercial services use to the north. The site is backed by an undulating tree-clad hilly landscape to the east, - Landscape Character Area known as Policy Area 3 – South Hills. The urban landscape of the hillside town of New Ross lies to the north and north east.

2.4 Topography

The site at Marshmeadows is low and flat and forms part of the reclaimed area of mudflats and reed beds by the river Barrow, with high ground to the east rising up to a local high point at Oaklands. The higher (98m) Camlin Hill lies to the south east.

2.5 Hedgerows, Trees and Shrub Cover

The site is largely devoid of hedgerows, trees and shrub cover and vegetation is generally limited to low growing grasses, rushes, sub-shrubs and wildflowers. There are a few small shrubby trees – Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Sycamore

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(Acer pseudoplatanus) along the side of the R733. Across the R733 the west-facing slope of the rising ground is densely furnished with a deciduous woodland largely consisting of Beech (Fagus sylvatica)

2.6 Existing Buildings / Artefacts

There are no existing buildings or artefacts on the site in question.

2.7 Land Use

The land was reclaimed in the mid 19th century and would have been in agricultural use up to relatively recently as poor quality grazing. More recently it has been filled to depths no greater than 1m. The site is currently unused in anticipation of use for an appropriate port-related industrial development.

2.8 Intrusion on or Proximity to Listed Views / Lan dscape

The Wexford County Development Plan does not contain listed views/landscape as such however it does make reference to the Barrow River Corridor as described above.

The proposed development will impact on views across and from the river and on views such as they are, enjoyed by travellers on the R733.

2.9 Viewers

The site is overlooked at some distance by some viewers on the high ground in the southern suburbs of New Ross to the north east and the peri-urban area of New Ross on the high ground to the east, and also to distant viewers in the upper apartments of the new developments on the Kilkenny side of the bridge.

The site is also exposed to viewers on a R733, a busy road with substantial tourist traffic as it is the route to/from John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, Dunbrody Abbey, Ballyhack – Passage East Car Ferry, Duncannon, Hook Head and the coastal route from Wexford/Rosslare.

2.10 Views and Prospects

There are no particularly attractive views and prospects available from the site itself, with the exception of the view looking directly south.

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2.11 Change in the Landscape

The site is set within an area of portal development which has witnessed significant landscape change in recent years where the land has been transformed from a lowland pasture meadow/mudflat/reed bed area into a port related services and industrial location.

2.12 Landscape Character Evolutionary Track

The Landscape Character Evolutionary Track for the site would have had a start point in the distant past as a riverine tidal marsh reed bed, followed relatively recently in the 19th century by reclaimed water meadow – a natural/agricultural landscape track and now following further reclamation, it is part of an inland portal industrial and portal-related services landscape – it is now on an industrial/heavy services landscape track.

2.13 Sensitivity of the Landscape

The roadside location of the site and its setting in a low lying area overlooked to some extent to the north gives rise to a low to moderate level of landscape/visual sensitivity which is modified to a substantial degree by the local topography/tree cover and the level of development already permitted on the neighbouring segments of the port area.

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3. Description of Proposed Development

3.1 Introduction

The project which is the subject of the EIS relates to a proposed development of a Bio-Diesel production facility at Marshmeadows, New Ross, County Wexford involving the following key elements:

� A process building with distillation column and separate process and boiler stacks and,

� A bunded tank farm containing approx. 17 storage tanks and adjoining cooling tower.

In addition supporting infrastructure will be provided to include yard area, parking, landscaping, loading, unloading station, services, lighting and security fencing.

Access to the development will be from the existing estate road serving the port development at New Ross Port, which is in turn accessed off the R733 road.

The proposed layout is illustrated within the main EIS document prepared by Malone O’ Regan.

3.2 Characteristics of the Project

The project involves a number of elements, the characteristics of which are described separately as follows.

3.2.1 Process Building, Distillation Column & Stack

The process building will have an overall height of 13.5metres.

The distillation column will have a height of 19.5 metres and the process stack is expected to a have a height of 22.5 metres. The boiler which is housed within the process building will have a separate stack up to 24m in height.

All of these buildings will have exterior cladding coloured grey.

3.2.2 Tank Farm & Cooling Tower

The tank farm will feature up to 17 tanks in all of varying heights but most will be lower than the process building and will range from 3.6 - 12 metres high.

The cooling tower will be 2.5 -3 metres high. All of the tanks and the cooling tower will be clad / painted white.

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3.2.3 Infrastructure

The infrastructure which comprises of yard area, parking, unloading station, services, lighting and security fencing area all of which is with the exception of the lighting, low in scale and height.

3.2.4 Landscaping

The landscaping is described in Section 3.2.5 of the main EIS document and primarily involves planting with trees and hedging along the northern, southern and eastern site boundaries and with hedging only along the western boundary.

The landscaping is primarily intended to provide visual mitigation from the point of view of travellers on the R733 road.

3.2.5 Phasing

The proposed development will be constructed in a single phase and is expected to be completed in early to mid 2008.

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4. Description of the Predicted/Potential Landscape /Visual Impacts of the Proposed Development

4.1 Introduction

In this section the predicted/potential impacts of the proposed development are identified including those, which were assessed as requiring mitigation.

Those mitigating measures included in the characteristics of the project are taken into account, but the dimension of time is not allowed for.

In assessing the landscape / visual impacts account has been taken of the relevant sections of the New Ross Local Development Plan and the County Wexford Development Plan prepared by the Local Authority responsible for the lands in question.

4.2 Description of Predicted/Potential Landscape / Visual Impacts

4.2.1 Process Building, Distillation Tower & Stacks

The process building, column tower and stacks are buildings and structures of some considerable mass, their footprint within the site is however proportionally small in the context of the overall Marshmeadows site and the distinct vertical lines of stack and distillation tower has the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark.

The predicted / potential landscape / visual impacts are therefore expected to be initially negative and significant.


The tank farm and cooling tower because of the number of tanks involved, their height and their close association, will have substantial mass. Their footprint within the site is however also relatively small in the context of the overall Marshmeadows site and the diversity of the vertical structures has the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark.

The predicted/potential landscape/visual impacts of the tank farm and cooling tower are expected to be initially negative and significant.


The infrastructure in association with the development is modest in scale and size.

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The predicated / potential landscape / visual impacts of the associated infrastructure will be slightly negative in the short term.

4.2.4 Landscaping

The proposed landscaping along the northern, eastern and southern boundaries when initially implemented will be overpowered by the scale and mass of the proposed development and therefore the predicted / potential landscape / visual impact of the landscaping will initially be neutral.

4.2.5 Cumulative Impact

The initial landscape change arising from the proposed development will be quite dramatic and is likely to be perceived as negative by many viewers although the majority of these will comprise of passing motorists on the R733.

However taking the proposed development as a combination of all of its elements and excluding the mitigation of time, but recognising the potential of the development to create an interesting and striking visual landmark, it is objectively expected that the predicted / potential landscape / visual impacts of the proposed development will initially be negative and moderate.

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5. Measures Proposed to Mitigate Adverse Landscape Impacts of the Proposed Development

5.1 Introduction

The following are the measures proposed, many of which are already part of the original design or have been incorporated in the design in response to the environmental impact assessment process. These will, when detailed and implemented, serve to mitigate those adverse landscape impacts that would otherwise arise in association with the project.

The mitigating measures are listed in order of priority, linked to the implementation of the project from pre-construction / design stage through to completion.

1. Management of Soil for Landscaping

Care should be exercised with regard to the handling of the soil on the site with particular reference to avoiding compaction or relieving compaction as necessary in all areas scheduled for subsequent landscaping in order to maximise the rapid establishment of the new planting (Refer to guidelines in appendix 2).

Ground shaping and contouring will be undertaken in a sensitive manner to blend with the existing landscape.

Due to the low-lying nature of the site with a high water-table, it is recommended that the planting areas be slightly mounded (recommended gradient of 1 in 3)

2. The planting of trees, hedging and shrubbery will be implemented around

the boundaries of the site in association with the proposed development, designed to achieve a reasonable degree of visual mitigation and screening over time to address the negative visual impact of the different elements of the project.

3. All landscaping carried out within the site will incorporate a provision for future care and management to ensure the successful establishment and ongoing growth of same.

4. Landscaping will be implemented on a programmed basis closely linked

with construction programme to ensure that the mitigating measures are effective from the earliest possible date. All planting will take place at the latest in the first planting season (November to March) following the

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completion of construction work on any specific element of the overall project.

5. The public lighting system will be carefully selected in order to avoid excessive escape of light at night whilst insuring an adequate and safe distribution of light within the built elements of the complex.

6. The cladding and surface finishes have been chosen to mitigate the visual impact of the buildings and structures, particularly when viewed against the sky.

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6. Residual Landscape / Visual Impacts Of The Propo sed Development

6.1 Introduction

The following is a description of the residual landscape visual impacts that are expected, when account is taken of the mitigating measures over time all as set out in association with the project and described in detail in Section 5.

It can be anticipated that the visual mitigation provided by the landscaping measures will increase incrementally over time.

It is also reasonable to assume that additional development will take place in the port area and particularly if this is within the framework of an overall master-plan, further visual mitigation will accrue from the uniform development standards that such an approach will generate.

6.2.1 Process Building, Distillation Column & Stack s

The process building, distillation column and stacks are buildings and structures of considerable mass, their footprint within the site is however proportionally small in the context of the overall site and the distinct vertical lines of stack and distillation tower has the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark.

Having account of the increase in the positive effects of the mitigation measures over time that is anticipated, the residual landscape / visual impacts will reduce from negative and significant to negative and moderate in the medium term, reducing to slight to moderate negative in the long term.


The tank farm and cooling tower because of the number of towers involved, their height and their close association will have substantial mass, their footprint within the site is however proportionally small in the context of the overall Marshmeadows site and the diversity of the vertical structures has the potential to create an interesting and striking visual landmark.

Having account of the increase in the positive effects of the mitigation measures over time that is anticipated, the residual landscape / visual impacts will reduce from negative and significant and to negative and moderate in the medium term, reducing to slight to moderate negative in the long term.


The infrastructure in association with the development is modest in scale and size.

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The residual landscape / visual impacts of the associated infrastructure will be slightly negative in the short term and neutral in the medium and long term.

6.2.4 Landscaping

The proposed landscaping when established will achieve sufficient scale and mass to mitigate the landscape/visual impact of the proposed development and the residual landscape / visual impact of same will be significantly positive in the medium and long term.

6.2.5 Cumulative Impact

The initial landscape change arising from the proposed development will be quite dramatic and is likely to be perceived as negative by many viewers although the majority of these will comprise of passing cars along the R733.

However taking the proposed development as a combination of all of its elements, recognising the potential landmark characteristics of the building structures, allowing for further development in the area within a master-plan framework and including the mitigation of time, it is objectively expected that the residual landscape / visual impacts of the proposed development will initially be moderately negative in the short term and, reducing to moderate to slight and negative in the medium term, reducing to slightly negative/neutral in the long term.

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7. Monitoring

It would be important therefore that the condition of all the newly planted trees on the site be monitored on a continuous basis and that a landscape management programme be put in place whereby remedial measures and/or additional planting is implemented when and as required.

An annual report on the condition of the trees/woodland and the new landscaping together with recommended management action should be submitted to the Wexford County Council Planning department after a period of three years and again after six years.

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8. Non-Technical Summary

The following is a summary of the BHL Landscape Design contribution to an Environmental Impact Statement addressing the landscape / visual impacts of a proposed Bio-Diesel Production Facility development at Marshmeadows, New Ross, County Wexford which will comprise of a process building, tank farm and associated infrastructure on a 0.87 hectare site.

In relation to the planning context the proposed project is to be located within an existing portal area with zoning for industrial use and will be located within an existing landscape that has the capacity to accommodate such a development subject to high standards of design and the inclusion of appropriate landscaping measures.

The site itself is low lying, in-filled land and forms part of a reclaimed river bank area which already features port related activities and developments.

The site is set within the distinctive tidal river landscape of the river Barrow south of the hillside town of New Ross which over looks the site to some degree.

The site is screened to a substantial extent by the tree clad high ground at Oaklands to the east, by the higher Camden hill to the south east and by the existing buildings and structures to the west and north.

The site does not lie within the ambit of any listed views / landscape and is only overlooked by settled viewers at some distance - from the high ground in the southern suburbs of New Ross and at an even greater distance by viewers in the new apartments on the Kilkenny side of New Ross Bridge.

The site is also exposed to viewers on the R733 - a busy road with substantial tourist traffic.

The design of the project will involve landscape / visual mitigation measures comprising of the planting of trees, hedging and shrubbery along the northern eastern and southern boundaries.

An appropriate baffled public lighting system will be installed and the colour scheme will be white / grey in keeping with the nature of the development and the fact that some of the structures will be visible against the sky.

Whilst the initial landscape change arising from the proposed development may be perceived as negative by viewers, the bulk of whom will comprise of travellers on the R733, it is anticipated that as the mitigation measures mature and take effect the residual landscape / visual impacts of the proposed development while initially moderately negative will reduce to moderate to slightly negative in the medium term and slightly negative to neutral in the long term.

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9. Appendix 1

9.1 Glossary of Descriptive Terminology Used in Rel ation to Impacts

9.1.1 Quality of Impacts

Positive Impact - a change, which improves the quality of the environment. Neutral Impact - a change, which does not affect the quality of the environment. Negative Impact - a change, which reduces the quality of the environment.

9.1.2 Significance Of Impacts

Imperceptible Impact - an impact capable of measurement but without noticeable consequences - change the landscape character >0% and <10%.

Slight Impact - an impact which causes noticeable changes in the character of the environment without effecting its sensitivities - change >10% but <25%.

Moderate Impact - an impact that alters the character of the environment in a manner that is consistent with existing and emerging trends - change >25% but <45%.

Significant Impact – an impact which by its character, magnitude, duration or intensity alters a sensitive aspect of the environment - change >45% but <75%

Profound Impact - an impact, which obliterates sensitive characteristics - change 75% up to 100%.

9.1.3 Duration of Impacts

Temporary Impact - an impact lasting for 1 year or less. Short term Impact - an impact lasting 1 to 7 years. Medium term Impact - an impact lasting 7 to 20 years. Long term Impact - an impact lasting 20 to 50 years. Permanent Impact - an impact lasting over 50 years.

9.1.4 Types Of Impacts

Cumulative Impact - the addition of many small impacts to create one larger, more significant impact.

Synergistic Impact - where the resultant impact is of greater significance than the sum of its constituents.

Do nothing Impact – the environment as it would be in the future should no development of any kind be carried out.

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Indeterminable Impact – when the full consequences of a change in the environment cannot be described.

Irreversible Impact – when the character, distinctiveness, diversity or reproductive capacity of an environment is permanently lost.

Residual Impact – the degree of environmental change that will occur after the proposed mitigating measures have taken effect.

Worst case Impact – the impacts arising from a development in the case where mitigation measures substantially fail.

9.2 Glossary of Descriptive Terminology Used In Rel ation To Landscape/Visual Impacts and Landscaping Measures

Native Native species are generally regarded as those which arrived here by natural processes in prehistoric times. Typical native Irish species would include black alder, common ash, downy birch, hazel, holly, sessile oak, pedunculate oak, rowan, scotts pine, crab apple, willow, yew.

Naturalised Naturalised species are plants which were originally introduced by human agency from overseas, but now maintain themselves without further intervention. Typical naturalised trees would include sycamore, beech, hedge maple and English elm.

Exotic Exotic plants are generally recent introductions largely from the new world. It is possible, indeed likely that some of these will become naturalised in time.

Hedgerow Hedgerows generally consist in Ireland of a mixture of native/naturalised shrubs and trees, normally in an overgrown state. However in some parts of the country they are maintained low and dense with regular cutting and to be really effective for stock control a skilled hedge-laying operation is required.

The term hedgerow tends to be used to embrace a range of boundaries from quite poorly furnished bramble covered banks to rows of large mature trees.

Deciduous Deciduous trees are those that lose their leaves in the autumn.

Coniferous Coniferous trees are trees that bear cones and the majority of which are evergreen, but there are exceptions such as larch.

Evergreen The term evergreen refers to shrubs and trees that retain leaf cover throughout the year, however it is incorrect to state that

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they do not drop leaves as evergreens do drop old leaves in spring, such as holly.

Girth When describing newly planted trees in landscaping the size of the tree is often defined as its girth or circumference at one metre from ground level. The girth is significant in defining not alone the overall size of the tree but also its capacity to withstand interference such as vandalism.

Mature The term mature is used inconsistently in the context of trees in the landscape and trees used for landscaping. There is no accepted definition as to what is precisely being referred to, when the term is used and it is indicative rather than specific.

Semi-Mature The situation with regard to this term is similar to that with regard to mature, when used in landscaping terms it refers to a relatively large tree, however if used in terms of describing existing trees in the landscape it would refer to a much larger tree which has yet to reach full maturity.

Multi-Stemmed This describes trees that have a number of stems arising close to the ground, some occur naturally such as hazel, willow, ash, sycamore and birch. Nursery stock plants are also pruned in such a fashion,so as to produce such an effect which is architecturally pleasing.

Suckering Some species produce a dense mass of shoots around the base of the tree and these are known as suckers. It is most common with certain species of lime trees and would also describe the growth habit of hazel.

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10. Appendix 2

10.1 Recommendations with Regard to the Handling o f Soil on the Site

The quality and condition of the topsoil and subsoil into which trees and shrubs are planted has a major influence on the success of the planting on developed sites.

In stripping the site of topsoil, care must be exercised to avoid mixing the underlying layer of subsoil with the topsoil. In so far as is possible, topsoil should not be stored in very high mounds for prolonged periods of time, nor should it be excessively compacted while in storage.

The subsoil immediately below the topsoil should, if possible, be stored separately from the more inert deeper subsoil. This first layer of subsoil will always contain a certain amount of topsoil and should be replaced on the regraded site in preparation for topsoiling.

Topsoil and the immediate underlying layer of subsoil should never be handled in wet conditions.

Compaction is a major cause of landscape problems, both with regard to the survival of plants and problems of ponding, moss and soft ground conditions in lawns.

All areas to be landscaped should have the subsoil layer well decompacted prior to topsoiling and subsequent to decompaction traffic should be kept to the absolute minimum on the surface.

Topsoil depth on areas to be seeded should be a minimum 150mm deep. Areas to be seeded as wild flower meadows may have shallower topsoil cover – 100mm or less.

Topsoil depth in locations to be planted with large trees should be a minimum 1000mm deep. Topsoil depth in shrub and other planting beds should be a minimum 450mm deep.

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EIS Landscape / Visual Proposed Bio-Diesel Plant Marshmeadows, New Ross, Wexford

BHL Landscape Group

Photographic Appendix 3

View over New Ross Port area from high ground to north east

View of New Ross Port from across the River Barrow – proposed development will be located to the left of the existing tank farm shown on the extreme right on the picture

View across site from southern boundary looking towards New Ross. View across site from northern boundary

looking south – no viewers.

View across site and New Ross Port area towards New Ross taken from point well south of site – distant viewers on high ground to the north east and in new apartments across bridge to the north west.

Zoomed image illustrating new apartments that might have glimpsed view of proposed development.

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EIS Landscape / Visual Proposed Bio-Diesel Plant Marshmeadows, New Ross, Wexford

BHL Landscape Group

Zoomed view of potential viewers to the north east of site on high ground.

View of site from R733 road just north of entrance to New Ross Port area.

Approaching site from the south on R733. Site only becomes visible after rounding bend where two cars are located.

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Appendix H Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment Report

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Archaeological Assessment of proposed Biodiesel Plant at Marshmeadows, New Ross

By

Maurice F. Hurley MA FSA MIAI

For Malone O’ Regan Environmental Consultants

2B Richview Office Park Clonskeagh

Dublin 14

October 2005

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1. The Proposal

It is proposed to build a bio-diesel plant at Marshmeadows, New Ross, Co.Wexford (Figure 1). The proposed site is to be constructed on land initially reclaimed in the mid 19th century and recently subject to filling. The proposal includes a tank farm. The tanks will stand above the existing ground level, but foundations, piles etc., will penetrate ground level. It is assumed that the larger tanks at least will be constructed on piled foundations. No details of the foundation designs are available at the time of undertaking this study consequently; it is assumed that the impact will be equal throughout the site (Figure 2).

2. The Scope of the Study

This report assesses the impact of site development works on the archaeological environment of the site. The proposal is confined to a 0.87 ha area of filled ground (Figure 2) beside the R733. The aim is to assess the impact of the development on the receiving archaeological environment, and evaluate the implications of that impact. All of the site is now a terrestrial environment, but the excavation of pits or piles may involve impact on underlying sediments that were at one time part of the intertidal zone. Intertidal archaeology pertains to the area between high and low water, which is currently outside the site under review, but at one time (pre-mid 19th century) included the area of the site. Detailed proposals for the development ground plans have not been drawn up therefore, final details on the methods of excavation, depths, methods of construction etc., have not been agreed. The report proposes mitigation strategies to ensure that the development will not impinge on any potential archaeological resource of the site or area.

2.1 Method of Study The following resources and methods of establishing the archaeological status of the development site were used:

1. The proposed site was examined by field-walking, which included inspection of the riverbank (August 2005).

1. The topographic files of Dúchas, The Heritage Service and the National Museum of Ireland were consulted.

2. The Sites and Monuments Record and the Record of Monuments and Places for Co. Wexford were consulted.

3. The Archaeological Inventory of Co. Wexford (Moore 1996) was consulted. 4. A number of previous Environmental Impact Assessments were reviewed;

these include: the History & Cultural Heritage section in Dredging and improvement of the Navigation Channel of the River Barrow by M.F. Hurley (December 1995) for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers; the Cultural Heritage of the River Barrow section of River Barrow Training Works by Aidan O’ Sullivan (November 1997) for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers; ‘Archaeological Assessment of County Kilkenny Land

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Improvement site at Ringville’ by M.F. Hurley in River Barrow Training Works for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers (February 1999), and ‘Archaeological Assessment of Co. Wexford, Land Improvement sites at Whitechurch & Marshmeadows’ by M.F. Hurley in River Barrow Training Works for Malone O’ Regan, Consulting Engineers (February 1999), Port extension Marshmeadows, River Barrow, New Ross, Co. Wexford. Archaeological Assessment by D. Boland (August 2004)

5. Published historical and archaeological reports on the area were consulted (see biobliography).

6. All editions of Ordnance Survey maps of the area were examined.

3. The Receiving Environment

3.1 Description of the site The site of the proposed development is composed entirely of filled ground. The River Barrow is tidal some 400m to the west of the site, however it is likely that the flood plain of the river once extended to the foot of the sloping ground now occupied by the New Ross to Arthurstown/Fethard road (R733). It appears that the road was laid out along the original riverbank in this area. The flood plain between the road and the present riverbank was covered at high tide and during floods. The ground was evidently reclaimed from the river mud prior to the mid 19th century. The reclamation had taken place before the 1840s as the landscape of rectangular fields extended from the road to the riverbank has not been significantly altered from that surveyed for the 1st edition Ordnance Survey map. Subsequent editions of the Ordnance maps (Figures 3 & 4) show little change in the landscape. Essentially the rectangular fields are divided by ditches (drains), some with sluices by the riverbank. The entire Marshmeadows area is described on the Ordnance Survey 6’’ scale map as covered by spring tides (Figure 3). A low reed covered dyke (levee) fronted the riverbank. A photograph (Plate 3) of the fields to the south (downstream) of the port site gives an indication of the type of landscape that characterised Marshmeadows prior to industrial development and modern filling.The townland of Marshmeadows, as the name suggest is confined to the area of reclaimed ground. The name implies that these fields were unsuitable for tillage and were used exclusively for pasture or forage land. This type of farming characterises flood plains, (water meadows) as in the Callows (Calladh). The lands were unsuitable for winter grazing and hay was cut late in the season when the ground had dried out hence the term meadows for a field cut for hay. The occurrence of any form of ancient habitation on this landscape is unlikely however, evidence for human activity is likely to pertain to riverfront and maritime remains such as wharfs, jetties, fish-traps and objects lost or deposited in the river mud. The 19th century reclamation may have destroyed or retrieved any such remains. Subsequently infilling for industrial developments (Post 1970s) sealed any such remains, if they exist deep beneath the modern surface.

The depth of fill on the proposed biodiesel site varies from 1m to little or nothing. The surface is now heavily overgrown by scrubby vegetation (Plate 1). Unfilled areas to the south of the site (Plate 2) are characterised by the grassland meadows created by the 19th century reclamation.

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3.2 Previous archaeological work within the surrounding area This area of the River Barrow was subject to extensive study between 1995 & 1999 as part of the River Barrow Training Works, when both the maritime and terrestrial environments effected by the works were studied Hurley (1995), O’ Sullivan (1997), Brady (1998, 107), Hurley (1999), Kieran (1999, 21). In particular the channel and mud-flats adjacent to Marshmeadows were surveyed while the river-meadow to the south of the site was one of the sites used for the deposition of dredged material (Figure 4). In 1999/2000 the dredging of the River Barrow was Subject to 24 hour monitoring by a team of maritime archaeologists (Kieran 1999, 21). The finds included ‘three stone anchors, boat timbers, set weights, small gaming-pieces, nails, bone, leather and even small wooded tools’ (ibid). An archaeological assessment for a port extension at Marshmeadows (recently granted planning permission but as yet unbuilt) was undertaken in 2004 by Donal Boland Maritime Archaeologist. This study involved a detailed survey of the riverbed and intertidal mud-flats adjacent to the existing Marshmeadows wharf. The survey concluded that ‘no features which could be described as being archaeological were revealed by the site surveys conducted as part of this assessment at the location of the proposed port development’ (Boland 2004, 4 & 36).

3.3 The significance of the River Barrow The River Barrow is tidal in the Marshmeadows area. The area where development is proposed was at one time, covered by the tidal waters of the river. The River Barrow, with its sister the River Nore, has provided the major artery to the southeast of Ireland for many centuries. It is not possible to gauge the importance of these waterways in the prehistoric times, but in the Viking period the Rivers Barrow and Nore were the main routes to raid south Leinster. One of the principal early Viking fortifications on the River Barrow is believed to have been at Dunrally Fort, Co. Laois. In the Norman period the Rivers Barrow and Nore were of primary importance to the establishment of Norman strongholds at Carlow and Kilkenny. New Ross itself was an early Norman foundation and the town thrived under the over lordship of Earl William Marshall. New Ross was walled in 1265 and in the 13th

century New Ross was a major rival of Waterford in the field of international trade. All the provisions of Carlow and Kilkenny passes through New Ross and all of this shipping passes by way of the River Barrow where the proposed dredging scheme is to take place. In the 13th century the ports of New Ross and Waterford jointly accounted for half of all the shipping entering Ireland. The discovery of two wooden log boats indicates the use of the waterways from prehistoric to medieval times, by people in primitive type boats. One boat was found in 1813 in the ‘bed of the river…near New Ross’, the exact find spot is not recorded. The boat was ’17 feet long 4feet in beam, neatly hollowed out of a single oak’ (Appendix 1). A second wooded log boat was found in August 1909 ‘about 5 miles below New Ross at Rochestown foreshores’. The canoe was 34 feet long as it presently lies, but fully 2 feet or more is gone from the stern (appendix 1). There are no recorded wrecks of the Viking or Norman period, which can be specifically placed in the River Barrow. No doubt in view of the amount of shipping and the turbulence of the Viking and early Norman period some ships were sunk or lost cargo in the lower stretches of the river. Written records of shipwrecks in this area have been located. The existence of occasional wrecks within the river, identified by buoys is mentioned by O’ Sullivan (1983, 222), however, this cannot be related to specific

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shipwrecks. It is likely that ships, which grounded on sandbars in the river, were refloated at high tide. The cargos of any such ships would also have been salvageable at low tide. One recorded incident in the River Barrow was the brig ‘The Earl of Sandwich’. In 1765, on a return voyage from the Canary Islands, the ship’s crew mutinied and, having murdered the Captain, loyal crew and passengers, set sail for Bantry Bay, which they reached of 10 December 1765. They then set sail eastwards and abandoning, the ships in a sinking condition took with them 2 tonnes of dollars in a boat. They landed at Fisherstown on the River Barrow and buried 250 bags of dollars on the beach at Fishertown flats close to Dollar Point. They then travelled to New Ross. They eventually travelled to Dublin where they were apprehended. The Duncannon garrison found the buried gold and lodged 250 bags at the Custom’s House at New Ross. The name Dollar Point is derived from this incident.

3.4 History of New Ross The first reference 'in the public records' to New Ross dates to 1210 during a visit by King John when it was called 'the New Bridge, a town of William Marshall' (Orpen 1911, 2). The fact that a bridge was standing at this date bears out Orpen's suggestion (ibid, 7) that the town was founded by William Marshal's wife Isabel at a somewhat earlier date, presumably after their marriage in 1189. Hore suggests a date of 1190 (1900 vol 1, 50). The town grew quickly in prosperity due largely to its deep port, river crossing, large hinterland, the patronage of William Marshal and, according to Hore, the relationship of lsabel, as grand-daughter of Dermot McMurrough, with her clansmen (ibid, 54). Throughout its history New Ross was in constant competition for imports with Waterford. 'The first mention of opposition by New Ross came on the 20th August [1215] when [King] John ordered that ships should land at New Ross provided no injury should thereby result to the city of Waterford' (McEneaney 1979, 16). In 1227 only the ships of William Marshall were allowed to go to New Ross all other ships had to dock at Waterford (ibid). This continued to be the policy through most of the fourteenth century. Nevertheless, at the end of the thirteenth century, 'the shipping trade of New Ross surpassed that of Waterford, and was indeed ahead of any other port in Ireland' (Orpen 191 1, 9). The town was not enclosed until 1265. This was in reaction to a deteriorating situation caused by fighting between neighboring clans according to a unique account of the enclosure which exists in the form of a contemporary poem 'in the Norman tongue, preserved in the British Museum (Brit. Mus. Harleian MSS., No. 913, 'A Curious Account of the Erection of the Walls and FortiOcations of New Ross in the year 1265)' (Hore 1900 vol 1, 55). 'Excavation work begins at Candlemas, 2 February 1265, but the gent lowis (hired men) (Irish?) do not perform to the townsfolk's satisfaction, and they resolve that they will undertake the work themselves, with various trades and vocations taking their turns on successive days of the week' (Sayers 1992, 1 17). The thirteenth century poem also gives an insight 'to the large number of trades that were found in a bustling colonial settlement, attending to both the internal commodities and services market and to export trade' (ibid). It is likely that the initial work consisted entirely of digging a ditch. Rock lies immediately below the surface for almost the entire landward circuit of the walls and consequently this would have been a large and labour intensive undertaking. It is little wonder therefore that the entire town became involved in the process. Significant progress must have been made, as in 1279 there is a reference to 'The Rent of the town by the Burgesses, from their holdings inside and outside the walls' (Hore 1900

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vol I, 142). In 1308-9, however, 'the Franciscans petitioned that their monastery should be enclosed by the wall' (Fitzmaurice and Little 1920, 89-90). This was sited at Priory Lane between Priory Street and the riverside and may indicate an extension of the original plan or the continuation of the walling development. Throughout the fourteenth century murage was granted to the town indicating on-going building and or repair. At some point the wall was continued at the south to join up with a citadel or blockhouse near the riverside. The walls survived at least until 1786 when a petition from the sovereign and burgesses describe the town as being "surrounded by a wall" (Hore 1900 vol 1, 395). According to Hore (ibid, 112) the first bridge was built by William Marshal. This was succeeded by another in 1313 and yet another at some point in the fifteenth century which was destroyed in 1643. Cromwell constructed a temporary bridge in 1649, however, New Ross was without a permanent bridge until 1796, a period of 150 years. The fourth bridge was destroyed in I 867 and replaced in 1869. The present bridge was opened in 1967. The suburb of Rosbercon lay on the opposite side of the river. 'From the early 1200s when both sides of the river were under the same civil administration Rosbercon as regarded as an integral part of William Marshal's town in 1245 the intimate relationship ... was radically altered with the partitioning of the Marshal palatinate in Leinster' (Flynn 1981, 13). According to Hore (1900 vol I, 75) 'Rosbercon ..[1257] was a place of considerable importance virtually the port of Kilkenny City'. Bradley (1987, 124) states that the foundation charter was granted between 1289 and 1295 and that the borough was probably aligned along the street leading from the bridge towards the Dominican Priory. The importance of the settlement is also indicated in the charter of Gilbert de Clare granted in 1300, which conferred civic rights on the burgesses of Rosbercon which were equal in every way to those enjoyed by the municipality of Kilkenny (Hore, 1900 vol I, 75). Throughout the centuries New Ross suffered more than most walled towns in Ireland from attacks and burnings as well as the constant struggle with Waterford for the rights of import and never recovered the heights of prosperity, population and development enjoyed in the thirteenth century.

3.5 Historical background of the area & its monuments Evidence for every period of human settlement in Ireland has been found in the vicinity of New Ross. Finds of Neolithic stone axes have been made in Adamstown, Co. Wexford and a Bronze Age Hoard was found ‘near New Ross’ in the 19th century. The hoard contained four pennanular bracelets and a gold fibulae’ (details of other stray finds from the area are given in Appendix 1).

3.6 Sites adjacent to the River A number of important historical sites flank the River Barrow and some of these sites may have possessed piers, jetties or other access points to the river. Fording points cannot be positively identified and it is highly unlikely that the River Barrow was ever fordable below New Ross. Ferries may have operated at many points on the river, but these must be considered with the general shipping and river traffic. Human habitation sites in the low-lying mud flats are unlikely.

3.7 List of sites in the vicinity There are no known archaeological monuments on the site of the proposed development or in the surrounding area (Figures 4 & 6).

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A list of the sites in the immediate vicinity compiled from the Dúchas SMR, RMP and Archaeological Inventory of Co. Wexford (Moore 1996) is as follows:

SMR 34:26 (Figures 3 and 4)

Map 34

National Grid 27077,12224

Townland Oldcourt

Classification Castle (site); 2km to south.

Description Castle at Oldcourt recorded on Civil Survey when it

was owned by David Sutton (Simington 1953, 784) and

marked ‘site of castle’ with rectangular building on

1841 OS map. Slight oval hollow (dims. 23m E-W;

16m N-S).


Map 34


Townland Stokestown

Classification Castle; 1.3km to the south-west of the site

Description Lost by the Prendergasts to George Dormer, a New

Ross merchant in 1582 (Jeffrey 1979, 212-3). Altered in

19th century. Rectangular tower (dims. 7m x 6.6m) of

three floors and parapet level, lacking barrel vault,

quoins and base-batter with few original features apart

from some blocked lights, and a large mullioned and

transomed window with square hood-mouldings on

second floor (now blocked).


Map 34

National Grid 27226, 12273

Townland Ballinteskin

Classification Ringfort; 2km to the southeast of the site

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Description Subcircular area (dims. 36m N-S; 33m E-W) defined by

degraded earthen bank (Wth 1.5-2m; int. H 0.3-0.8m;

ext. H0.4m) with internal and external stone revetment.

No visible fosse and entrance cannot be determined.

Field fence circumscribes site ESE-WSW at distance of

5m. Pasture.


Map 34


Townland Slaght

Classification Enclosure (site); 1.8km to the southeast of the site

Description Marked as circular enclosure only on 1841 OS 6-inch

map. Bank of enclosure visible as band of yellow clay

(Wth 4.5-6m) when ploughed. Circular area (int. diam.

25m).


Map 34


Townland Slaght

Classification Moated site (site); 1.75km to the south-east of the site

Description Rectangular area (dims. 24m N-S; 23m E-W) defined

by flat-bottomed fosse (Wth 2m; D 2-3m) (OPW file).

Removed since 1979 but fosse still evident as slight

depression (Barry 1977, 227, WX 110).

There is a notable concentration of moated sites and earthwork enclosures in Slaght townland 1.8km to the south-east (Figures 3 & 4). Many earthworks remained intact until recent years (five earthworks are shown on the 1st edition of the OS map 1841) in Slaght. There is a contrasting absence of earthworks in Camlin, Marshmeadows and Stokestown townlands. Unrecorded sites in the vicinity include ‘Brandon Well’ adjacent to Marshmeadows marked on the OS 6-inch map 1939. Nothing further is known of the site and it is not listed in the SMR.

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4. The Impact of the Development The proposal will have no archaeological impact at ground level or for 1m beneath this as the fill material is of modern origin. If archaeological remains survive in the compacted river mud beneath this level they may be damaged by piles deep drains or pits. There is no evidence that such remains exist but the possibility cannot be ruled out entirely. There is no potential visual impact on any known monument.

5. Mitigation Procedures If the penetration of structural elements is confined to piles below c. 1m in depth then no particular archaeological mitigation is warranted. If, however the excavation of pits and drains is extensive, below c. 1m (from current ground level) then all excavation below the modern infill should be subject to monitoring by a suitably qualified archaeologist.

Non-Technical Summary The site of the proposed development was once part of the intertidal mud flats flanking the river Barrow. The land was reclaimed for agricultural usage in the 19th

century and used for pasture and fodder-hence the name marshmeadows. It remained subject to flooding. The site was infilled post 1970 for industrial use, with 1m of introduced subsoils. It is on this man-made ground that the proposed development will be located. Impact on the ‘old ground’ i.e. the tidal mud flats lying c. 3m below the contemporary surface is likely to be confined to piles. In this case, no archaeological mitigation will be necessary as there is no evidence that this particular site contains specific archaeological material. In general, there is a possibility that riverbanks contain some archaeological material, consequently, deep pits and drains penetrating below 1m, then monitoring by an archaeologist will be necessary.

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Bibliography

Belling, R. 1772 'The war of Ireland from 1642 to 1647' in J. Lodge, Desiderata curiosa Hibernica: or a select collection of state papers and historical tracts, illustrating the political systems of the chief governors and government of Ireland during the reigns of Elizabeth, James I and Charles I (2 vols) vol II Dublin.

Bennett, I. (ed.) 1998, Excavations 1997, Dublin.

Boland, D. 2004, Port Extrnsion, Marshmeadow, River Barro, New Ross, Co. Wexford. Archaeological Assessment Unpublished report dated August 2004.

Bradley, J. 1987 Urban archaeological survey of Wexford O.P.W. (unpublished)

British Museum Harleian MMS., No. 913 (unpublished)

Browne, E. & Wickham, T. 1983 Lewis's Wexford: County Wexford prior to 1837 Wexford

Carroll, W.G. 1875 A memoire of the R Rev J. T. O'Brien, with a summary of his writings and notices of his fellow-townsmen [Rev. B. / Eloyd, by. Doyle, Rev G W. Carr, R. S. Graves, and the town of New Ross - Dublin

Fitzmaurice, E. B. & Little, A. G. 1920 Materials for the history of the Franciscan Province of Ireland AD 1230-1450 Manchester

Fleming, J. S. 1914 The town-wall fortifications of Ireland illustrated Paisley

Flynn, T. S. 1981 The Dominicans of Rosbercon (1267-c. 1800) Tallaght

Gwynn, A. & Hadcock, R. N. 1970 Medieval religious houses: Ireland Blackrock

Hore, P. H. (ed) 1900 History of the town and county of Wexford: Old and New Ross vol I London

Kieran, E. 1999, ‘Archaeology sinks to new depths in the River Barrow’, Archaeology Ireland

Vol. 13, No. 4, 21.

McEneaney, E. 1979 'Waterford and New Ross trade competition c. 1300'Decies 12, 16-24

Orpen, G. H. 1911 New Ross in the thirteenth century Dublin

Otway-Ruthven, A.J.1980, A History of Medieval Ireland, New York

O’ Sullivan, A. 1997, ‘River Barrow Training Works; Environmental Impact Assessment of the Cultural Heritage’ (unpublished report).

Sayers, W. 1992 'Anglo-Norman verse on New Ross and its founders' Irish Historical Studies 28, 113-23

Thomas, A. 1992 The walled towns of Ireland (2 vols) Dublin

Tietzsch-Tyler, D. & Sleeman, A. G. 1994 Geology of Carlow-Wexford Dublin

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(Regional map)

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Figure 2. Location plan of proposed Biodiesel plant

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Figure 3. Site Location

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Figure 4. A proposed Reclamation Site at Marshmeadows, County Wexford (Extract from O.S. 6’’ scale map (Recorded Monument) no.34)

Site

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Plate 1. View of the site from the R733 facing northwest and showing unfilled meadows to the south of the site

Plate 2. View of the Site facing south from northern boundary. The high ground (wooded) represents the E., limit of the flood-plain

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Plate 3. view of Marshmeadows. Looking N. from c. 0.5km downstream (s) of the development site.

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Appendix 1

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for inspection purposes only. air quality reportdistillation column rising to 19.5-metres; the...

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