Historic Environment: Supplementary Guidance

Environmental Report

May 2013

Contents

Non-Technical Summary

1. Introduction1.1 Purpose of this environmental report and key facts1.2 Statutory requirement1.3 Key facts1.4 SEA activities to date

2. Context2.1 Historic Environment Supplementary Guidance2.2 Relationship with other PPS and environmental objectives2.3 Environmental implications of relevant PPS

3. Relevant aspects of the current state of the environment3.1 Context3.2 Likely evolution of the environment without implementation of the HESG

4. SEA Objectives

5. Assessment of environmental effects5.1 Reasonable alternatives5.2 Assessment methods5.3 Assessment outcomes5.4 Residual and cumulative effects assessment

6. Conclusion

7. Monitoring strategy7.1 Key Elements of the Monitoring Strategy

8. Consultation8.1 Consultation requirements8.2 Consultation to date

Appendix A PPS Review

Appendix B Scoping consultation comments

Appendix C Environmental assessment

Appendix D Supplementary guidance policies

Non-technical Summary

South Ayrshire Council has been in the process of preparing a Local Development Plan (LDP) since 2009. The most recent stage in the preparation process was the issuing of the South Ayrshire Proposed Local Development Plan (SAPLDP) for consultation in August 2012. Since the conclusion of the consultation process (November 16th 2012), the Council has been considering the comments of the Consultation Authorities (Historic Scotland, Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and Scottish Natura Heritage) with a view to preparing an amended document which will be sent to the Scottish Ministers for their consideration.

The SAPLDP is a more streamlined document than previous local plans and, as such, does not contain the same level of detail as a local plan. This has meant that there is a need to supplement the content of the local development plan with an additional level of detail. This will be provided by a suite of supplementary guidance. The purpose of this document is to set out the environmental assessment that has been undertaken for the Historic Environment Supplementary Guidance.

Strategic Environmental Assessment is the process through which full consideration is given to the likely significant effects that a plan, policy or strategy (PPS) could have upon the environment. The process presents an opportunity to consider alternative approaches to achieving the same objectives of the PPS in question and to develop mitigation measures aimed at improving the overall performance of the PPS. A summary of this document is set out below.

Consultation

The consultation period for the Historic Environment Supplementary Guidance (HESG) and the accompanying draft environmental report is as follows:

13th May 2013 – 17th June 2013

Comments can be submitted by letter or email to Kenny Campbell:

Planning Environmental OfficerSouth Ayrshire CouncilCommunity, Enterprise & Development ServiceBurns HouseBurns Statue SquareAyr KA7 1UTTel: (01292) 616125Email: Kenneth.campbell@south-ayrshire.gov.uk

Copies of the environmental report and the HESG have been made available to view at:

www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk ; Burns House reception, Burns Statue Square, Ayr; and local libraries

Background to the HESG

The HESG essentially provides an additional level of detail to that contained within LDP policy: historic environment. The SG helps to ensure that the policy is accurately interpreted with the overall aim of creating a context for the effective protection and enhancement of the historic environment. The HESG provides specific guidance relating to design quality, listed buildings, conservation areas, scheduled monuments and historic gardens and designed landscapes.

SEA process

The environmental assessment process has been used to inform the content of the HESG throughout its development. The key steps of the SEA that have been completed to date include:

screening: This determined whether the HESG had the potential to have significant environmental effects and therefore if an SEA was required;

scoping: This provided the consultation authorities with information on the HESG, enabling them to form a view on the scope, level of detail and consultation period that would be appropriate; and

environmental assessment: this document sets out the environmental assessment that has been undertaken in respect of the HESG.

Environmental assessment process and findings

The assessment process has focussed upon four SEA topics: biodiversity, cultural heritage, human health and population. As stated, five policy areas were assessed; design quality, listed buildings, conservations areas, scheduled monuments and historic gardens and designed landscapes. Each of these policy areas were assessed against the SEA objectives devised for each of the SEA topics that were included. Where possible, alternatives to each of the policy areas were also considered.

The overall outcome of the assessment found that there will be beneficial effects arising in respect of each of the policy areas. The majority of the benefits were found to be in relation to cultural heritage which is consistent with the subject matter of the SG. However, there were also predicted to be minor benefits for human health, population and biodiversity.

During the initial assessment potentially adverse effects were being predicted for biodiversity in relation to three out of the five policy areas. This was found to be due to the conditions of some older structures which are often ideal conditions for roosting and breeding bats, which are European protected species. It was considered that there was inadequate mitigation contained within the SG in order to ensure the adequate protection of such species, in line with European legislation. However, the suggested mitigation measures were all rejected on the basis that there was adequate protection contained within the natural heritage policy of the LDP, to which the SG is statutorily linked. The residual effects assessment took account of this and a more accurate weighting was attributed to biodiversity, acknowledging the context within which the SG will operate.

Monitoring of effects

A monitoring strategy has been devised for the purposes of determining the environmental performance of the SG. Where any unexpected adverse effects begin to occur this should be picked up by the monitoring strategy and action taken accordingly. Over time, environmental benefits within South Ayrshire should become apparent through trends in environmental data. Monitoring is a key part of the SEA process and will provide essential information which can be used to guide future development.

Programme

This ER has been presented for public and statutory consultation at the same time as the HESG. The consultation period commences on 13th May 2013 and will run for a period of 5 weeks.

Activity Publication dateSEA screening report submitted 24/04/12SEA scoping report submitted 09/11/12Draft ER and SG issued for consultation 13th May 2013Adoption of HESG Spring 2014Post-adoption statement issued. Spring 2014

1. Introduction

1.1 Purpose of this Environmental Report and Key Facts

As part of the preparation of the Historic Environment Supplementary Guidance, South Ayrshire Council is carrying out a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). SEA is a systematic tool for considering the likely environmental effects of Plans, Programmes and Strategies (PPS). The purpose of this Environmental Report is to identify and record the likely significant environmental effects of implementing the Historic Environment: Supplementary Guidance (HESG). SEA aims to:

Integrate environmental factors into PPS preparation and decision-making; Improve PPS and enhance environmental protection; Increase public participation in decision-making; and Facilitate openness and transparency of decision-making.

1.2 Statutory Requirement

This Environmental Report has been prepared in accordance with Section 5 (3) of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 (hereafter referred to as the Act). The Act requires an SEA to be carried out on certain plans, programmes and strategies prepared by public authorities that are envisaged to have a likely significant environmental effect. The Act identifies a number of key stages to be undertaken for a SEA and these are outlined below:

ScreeningThis process determines whether the specified PPS has the potential to have significant environmental effects and therefore if an SEA is required. Under Section 5 (3) (a) of the SEA Act, a Screening Report was not necessary for the HESG and therefore a decision was taken to advance to the scoping stage. ScopingSection 15 of the SEA Act requires a scoping exercise to be undertaken in advance of preparing the Environmental Report. This sets out sufficient information on the South Ayrshire Council LDP to enable the Consultation Authorities (CAs) (Historic Scotland, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH)) to form a view on the consultation period as well as the scope, methodology and level of detail that will be appropriate for its accompanying Environmental Report.Environmental ReportAims to identify, describe and evaluate the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the plan and its reasonable alternatives (Section 14(2) of the Act). The Environmental Report is the key consultation document in the SEA process because it provides an explanation of the environmental effects along with an opportunity to comment. ConsultationThe Environmental Report will be presented for public and statutory consultation during the same period as is HESG. The consultation period will commence on ?? and will run for ?? weeks to allow for full representations to be made.Post – Adoption StatementProvides information on the adopted plan and how consultation comments were taken into account. This will be undertaken and published once the HESG has been adopted.MonitoringSection 19 of the SEA Act requires the Responsible Authority to monitor significant environmental effects of implementing the PPS. This must be done in such a way as to also identify unforeseen adverse effects and to take appropriate remedial action.

1.3 Key Facts

Table 2-1 contains the key facts relating to the HESG.

Table 2-1: Key FactsKey Facts Detail

Responsible Authority South Ayrshire Council

Title of Plan / Programme

Historic Environment: Supplementary Guidance

What Prompted the Plan The preparation of the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan

Plan Subject Historic Environment

Period Covered by Plan 2013 – 2018

Frequency of Updates 5 yearly

Plan Area Whole of South Ayrshire

Plan Purpose and / or Objectives

To supplement the policies of the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan and to provide a framework for the protection, conservation and enhancement of specific elements of the historic environment and to allow the assessment of the impact of proposed development affecting certain features of the historic environment and their setting. Supplementary guidance is a material consideration in the determination of planning applications.

Contact Point Kenny CampbellSouth Ayrshire CouncilBurns HouseBurns Statue SquareAyrKA7 1UT01292 616125Kenneth.campbell@south-ayrshire.gov.uk

1.4 SEA Activities to date

Through the formulation of the objectives for the HESG, it became apparent that there was potential for significant environmental effects. It was therefore considered that an SEA screening exercise was unnecessary and that the Council could proceed straight to the scoping stage.

A scoping report was prepared at the beginning of November 2012 and sent to the consultation authorities. The consultation authorities were given a five week period within which the Council would accept responses on the content of the scoping report. Following receipt of the responses, the comments received were taken into account, fed into the process and are reflected within this environmental report. Appendix B sets out how each of the points raised by the consultation authorities has been addressed.

2. Context

2.1 Historic Environment Supplementary Guidance

South Ayrshire Council approved the commencement of a Local Development Plan (LDP) for South Ayrshire in March 2009. The most recent stage in this process was the issuing of the South Ayrshire Proposed Local Development Plan (SAPLDP) for consultation on 27 th August 2012. The SAPLDP contains a policy on the historic environment which is intended to provide for the protection and effective management of features of the historic environment. However, it was clear that there was not sufficient detail within the policy in order to provide the necessary level of guidance and as such, the Council has decided to produce supplementary guidance to fill that void.

The HESG will therefore be used to supplement the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan, once adopted. The document will provide for greater certainty in the planning application process, ensuring that applicants’ are aware of what the Council would consider to be acceptable and also outlining the criteria which will be used to assess applications.

The HESG will be used to provide greater detail in relation to how the Council will view proposals affecting specific features of the historic environment. The SG will specifically consider listed buildings, conservation areas, scheduled monuments, design quality and historic gardens and designed landscapes. The objectives of the SG are as follows:

to provide guidance on the historic environment which should be considered in formulating development and assessing development proposals.

to promote better understanding and appreciation of the historic environment.

to protect and enhance the historic environment.

to ensure that all development proposals take proper account of local distinctiveness.

to explain how the protection of the historic environment and the promotion of opportunities for change can contribute to sustainable development.

The Council is currently in the process of preparing a suite of supplementary guidance documents. It is important that these documents are available at the time of adoption of the SALDP, ensuring that the Plan is supplemented by all of the necessary information. The HESG forms part of that suite of documents.

2.2 Relationship with other PPS and environmental objectives

Schedule 3 of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 requires the Environmental Report to contain details of the relationship of the SG with other PPSs, and that the environmental objectives identified in relevant PPSs are taken into account in the preparation of the environmental report.

There are a number of documents which could influence or be influenced by the SG. The relevant PPSs range from those at international to those at local level. A summary of the most relevant PPSs and their implications for the SG are set out within Table 2-1. The full list of PPSs relevant to the SG is set out within Appendix A.

Table 2-1 Relevant PPSs and associated implicationsName of PPS Key issues Implications for the SGEC (SEA) Directive 2001/42/EC

Defines the criteria under which an SEA must be conducted. Aims to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans with a view to promoting sustainable development by ensuing that an environmental assessment is carried out.

It states that an environmental assessment must be implemented for plans and programmes relating to town and country planning in accordance with Annexes I and II of the Directive 85/337/EEC.

The Habitats Regulations 1994

This piece of legislation sets out the protection afforded to European Protected Species (EPS). Of particular relevance to the SG is the EPS, bats. The breeding and

The SG must recognise the natural heritage value of listed buildings, particularly those which are lying vacant and ensure that

hibernating requirements of bats are often met by conditions in historic or listed buildings because of the construction materials, design and scale of such buildings.

appropriate provisions are in place to manage any impacts upon EPS.

Scottish Planning Policy (SPP)

Sets out national planning policy in relation to the historic environment including listed buildings, conservation areas and historic gardens and designed landscapes. Development plans should provide the framework for the protection, conservation and enhancement of all elements of the historic environment and its setting.

The LDP SG should take account of the principles set out within this policy and ensure consistency with national planning policy.

Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas)(Scotland) Act 1997

Prescribes the approach to be taken in planning for listed buildings and conservation areas.

The LDP and SG should ensure that listed buildings, conservation areas and designed landscapes and gardens are not adversely affected by new development.

Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979

Gives legal protection to scheduled monuments and important archaeological areas.

The LDP and SG should ensure that scheduled monuments and archaeological areas are not adversely affected by new development.

Scottish Historic Environment Policy (December 2011)

Sets out the overall framework for the historic environment and notes particular challenges for the historic environment including the adverse effects of inappropriate development on conservation areas, delivery of renewable energy and short term visions for the development of places.

The LDP and SG should ensure that planned development will not adversely affect the historic environment.

Planning Advice Note (PAN) 2/2011: Planning and Archaeology

Scheduled monuments come in a number of different forms, including areas of land which are identified as having archaeological value despite there being no identifiable features on the site. This document provides advice to local authorities in terms of how the presence of such features should be addressed in determining development proposals.

The SG should ensure that guidance relating to scheduled monuments is consistent with this PAN.

South Ayrshire Proposed Local Development Plan

The document sets out spatial priorities for South Ayrshire and secures land zoning for specified uses to provide increased certainty for development. It contains a Historic Environment policy designed to provide for the protection, conservation and enhancement of the historic environment.

The SG must ensure consistency with the LDP, whilst providing a more detailed level of guidance than that set out within LDP Policy: Historic Environment.

South Ayrshire Local Plan

This forms part of the current development plan for South Ayrshire and forms the basis of much of the information which will be contained within the SG.

Much of the information contained within the SALP remains relevant and it therefore forms a useful basis for informing the LDP and SG.

Let’s Make Scotland More Active (2003)

Aims to ensure that the Scottish population becomes more active, setting the target of all adults accumulating at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week, and an hour for children. This will have marked health benefits for the Scottish population and contribute towards ridding Scotland of its ‘sick man of Europe’ tag.

The preservation, enhancement and restoration of valuable built heritage resources can encourage recreation and it is clear that the LDP and SG have a role to play in encouraging such activities, even if this is done indirectly.

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003

Establishes rights of way across land and rights of communities to buy lands. It also imposes certain duties on local authorities in relation to access on and over land in their areas and, in particular, requires them to draw up and adopt a plan of core paths in their areas.

Many of the core paths run within close proximity of valued features of the historic environment and it is therefore important to encourage the reuse, enhancement and restoration of such features and this has links to human health.

2.3 Environmental implications of relevant PPSs

The PPSs relevant to the SG have a number of environmental objectives as well as environmental considerations that will need to be taken into account during the preparation of the SG. These are set out below under the relevant SEA topics.

Biodiversity

The Habitats Directive was transposed into law in Great Britain by the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994, usually called simply 'the Habitats Regulations'. This legislation covers the requirements for protected European (Natura) sites as well as those for European Protected Species.

Implications for the SG

The SG must recognise that there can often be conflicts between the protection, preservation and maintenance of certain cultural heritage features and the protection of some EPS. Given the level of importance attributed to EPS, it is essential that the SG provides an appropriate context for the proper management of any impacts upon such species, ensuring that adequate protective measures are in place.

Cultural Heritage

Scottish Planning Policy identifies the importance of the conservation and management of the historic environment and highlights that planning authorities should adopt suitable policies to protect it. The Scottish Historic Environment Policy sets out the Scottish Government’s policy on protecting cultural heritage assets, including scheduled monuments, listed buildings, conservation areas and historic gardens and designed landscapes.

The principles established at national level are reflected within the current South Ayrshire Local Plan, including detailed design guidance. However, this will be replaced by the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan which is a much more streamlined document than the SALP. The SG will contain the detail which has been omitted from the SALDP.

Implications for the SG

The SG should ensure that future development does not destroy or degrade cultural heritage assets and should encourage the sensitive reuse and enhancement of such assets. It should also seek to ensure that all future development is sensitively sited, protecting the setting of cultural heritage assets in all instances.

Human Health

Elements of the historic environment have a role to play in encouraging outdoor activities and recreation. For example, listed buildings and associated estates can offer opportunities for physical recreation and it is therefore important that local authorities provide support for the retention and enhancement of such assets.

SPP sets out objectives to protect and enhance open space and protect and support opportunities for sport and recreation. Let’s Make Scotland More Active (2003) includes targets to achieve 50% of all adults aged over 16 and 80% of all children aged 16 and under meeting the minimum recommended levels of physical activity by 2022. In terms of accessibility, the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 provides a right of responsible access to land and requires Councils to adopt a Core Paths Plan for their area. South Ayrshire’s Core Paths Plan is due for adoption in winter 2012/13.

Implications for the SG

The SG is restricted in terms of how much it can contribute to the achievement of these targets. The most effective way of contributing is to ensure that there is clear support for the enhancement, preservation and restoration of valuable cultural heritage assets, particularly where they provide facilities for active recreation. Historic gardens and designed landscapes are of particular relevance in this regard.

Population

Cultural heritage assets can often provide important tourism assets to a local area. In terms of South Ayrshire, Culzean Castle and Burns Cottage are two extremely important tourism resources and generate a significant amount of revenue for the local area. It is important that these resources are

appropriately protected and that there is a context for their preservation and enhancement. The LDP and SG have clear roles to play in this regard.

SPP recognises the value of the historic environment in terms of the contribution which it can make to tourism within Scotland. It states that planning authorities should seek to protect historical assets in recognition of the contribution which they make to tourism and economic development. The Scottish Historic Environment Policy also recognises the crucial role which the historic environment plays in supporting the tourism industry within Scotland. Scottish Ministers expect Historic Scotland to work closely with local authorities to maximise opportunities for the promotion of Scotland as a tourist destination.

Implications for the SG

The LDP and the SG should provide a context for the protection and enhancement of valued features of the historic environment, particularly those which make a contribution to the tourism industry. It is important to ensure that the setting of cultural heritage assets is protected, particularly with the considerable pressure for wind energy developments within South Ayrshire at present.

3. Relevant aspects of the current state of the environment

The Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 Schedule 3 requires that the Environmental Report includes a description of the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the PPS. This section aims to describe the environmental context within which the HESG operates and the constraints and targets that this context imposes on the HESG.

Current environmental issues have been identified in accordance with Schedule 2 of the Act through an analysis of the environmental baseline information, the PPS review and the responses from the Consultation Authorities on the SEA Scoping Report. The purpose of identifying the environmental issues is to establish how existing problems could affect, or be affected by, the HESG.

3.1 Context

South Ayrshire is located on the west coast of Scotland and is bordered by the Council areas of North Ayrshire, East Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway. South Ayrshire covers an area of approximately 422 square miles, and has a population of 112,097 (2001 census) with the main centres of population located within the towns of Ayr, Prestwick, Troon, Girvan and Maybole.

The key transport routes relevant to South Ayrshire include A77, A71 and A76, providing connection to Glasgow to the north, Stranraer to the south, Edinburgh to the north east and Dumfries to the south east. South Ayrshire is also served by rail links connecting to the central belt and Dumfries and Galloway. Prestwick Airport in the north of the Council area is one of Scotland’s main airports, providing national and international connections.

South Ayrshire’s environment is rich and diverse and there are a number of environmentally important sites that are designated at an international, national and local level and are hence protected from degradation.

The baseline data set out within Table 4-1 contains details relating to each of the SEA topics which the Authority believes have the potential to be significantly affected by the implementation of the HESG.

Table 3-1: Baseline DataSEA Topic Baseline Information Data Source Environmental problems/issues relevant to the SG Implications for the SGBiodiversity

Noctule batEast of Ayr, around Annbank and Mossblown

NBN Gateway Derelict buildings can often be used by bats for breeding and hibernating. Where an application is being considered for the conversion or replacement of derelict buildings falling within the scope of the SG, there is potential for adverse impacts upon EPS if the works are undertaken at the wrong time of the year.

The SG should recognise that there could be conflicts with bats in the restoration and reuse of some historical buildings and should provide an appropriate context for the protection of such species.

Distribution of EPS (bats)

Common Pipistrelle bat South of Ayr; Near A77, Culroy; Patna; Dalrymple; Culzean Castle; and South of Straiton.

NBN Gateway

Soprano Pipistrelle bat Annbank; Ayr, south of racecourse; Hollybush, east of Dalrymple; Kirkmichael; Crosshill; Straiton; north of Maybole; Dailly; Killochan Castle and Penkill; and Culzean Castle.

NBN Gateway

Cultural Heritage

Archaeological Recorded Sites 2,907 SAC and WoSAS Valued features of the historic environment are under constant threat from development which could either directly or indirectly affect them. Of particular concern at present is the threat of wind energy developments and those resultant adverse impacts upon the setting of cultural heritage assets.

Listed buildings are under threat of falling into a state of disrepair, particularly given the current economic climate.

The SG should ensure that adequate protection is given to valued features of the historic environment and that there is a flexible context for the reuse of vacant listed buildings.

The SG should ensure that the setting of cultural heritage assets is protected.

Archaeological Trigger Zones 1,291 SAC and WoSASScheduled Monuments 91 SAC and Historic ScotlandConservation Areas 21 SAC Listed Buildings 1,320 SAC Historic Gardens & Designed Landscapes 8 SAC and Historic Scotland

Population Population of South Ayrshire 111,560 (53,536 male and 58,024 female)

GRO Scotland SCROL Sustainable economic growth within South Ayrshire has been adversely affected by the global recession. Given that tourism is one of the key employment industries within the South Ayrshire it is important that tourism and tourist attraction are provided with a context within which the industry can sustain its role within the local economy and continue to provide employment opportunities and inward investment.

The SG is limited in terms of what it can achieve in this regard as the linkages are indirect. Nonetheless, the SG can play a role by ensuring the protection and encouraging the enhancement of features of the historic environment which are tourist attractions.

Life expectancy 81.1 years (female) and 76.4 years (male)

GRO Scotland SCROL

Employment by sector

Construction 3.9% NOMISManufacturing 11.5% NOMISDistribution, Hotels and Restaurants 29.6% NOMISTransport and Communications 6.8% NOMISFinance, IT and other Business Activities 7.1% NOMISPublic Admin, Education and Health 33.1% NOMISOther Services 5.8% NOMISTourism-related 13.5% NOMIS

Human Health

General Health Good = 68.33%Fairly good = 21.89%Not good = 9.78%

GRO Scotland SCROL Certain features of the historic environment provide opportunities for physical and mental recreation. The deterioration of such features would have adverse implications for human health by reducing opportunities for recreation.

The maintenance and enhancement of features of the historic environment can encourage people to use associated facilities for recreational purposes.

The SG should provide a context for the maintenance of estates and historic gardens and designed landscapes, ensuring that such assets are afforded the flexibility to continue as places for recreation.

Limiting Long Term Illness 21.19% of residents have a limiting long term illness

GRO Scotland SCROL

3.2 Likely evolution of the environment without implementation of the HESG

The purpose of the SG is to provide additional guidance to that already provided within the historic environment policy within the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan. If the SG was not implemented it would mean that the policy operated on its own and it is anticipated that this could have a number of implications for the historic environment. These are as follows:

a lack of guidance in relation to development affecting features of the historic environment, resulting in a deterioration of valued cultural heritage assets;

misinterpretation of the Historic Environment policy contained within the LDP resulting in the gradual deterioration of cultural heritage assets and their setting;

a lack of detailed guidance relating to the reuse of existing buildings and alternative uses of estates, resulting in the deterioration of cultural heritage assets; and

all of the above could have adverse impacts upon the local economy through the deterioration of cultural heritage assets which are valuable assets for the area in terms of tourism.

4. SEA Objectives

The purpose of developing SEA objectives is to determine criteria against which the SG can be assessed. The objectives have been developed through an understanding of the environmental objectives of relevant plans, policies and strategies along with consideration of the relevant baseline information. The SEA objectives that were developed for the SAPLDP also have clear relevance given that they were developed recently and that many of the relevant PPS are the same and much of the baseline data remains relevant. Table 5-1 provides a summary of the development of the SEA objectives.

Table 4-1: Development of SEA ObjectivesSEA Topic Key considerations of

relevant PPS and baseline data

SEA objective SEA Associated Questions

Biodiversity Ensure the protection of European Protected Species

Ensure that European Protected Species are afforded the necessary level of protection, according with the terms of the Habitats Regulations.

Could the policy/proposal have an impact upon any European Protected Species?

Cultural Heritage

Protect valued features of the historic environment and their setting.

Support the sensitive maintenance and enhancement of valued features of the historic environment.

Safeguard cultural heritage features and their settings through responsible design and positioning of development.

Could the policy/proposal affect any features designated for their cultural heritage value e.g. scheduled monuments, listed buildings, conservation areas etc?

Population Safeguard and enhance community environments, improving quality of life.

The need to retain the working age population.

Improve the community environment & quality of life of residents.

Maintain or enhance sustainable access to key services, amenities & employment, particularly for rural communities.

Promote economic growth to encourage retention of working age population.

Could the policy/proposal enhance the community environment and improve quality of life?

Does the policy/proposal promote sustainable access to essential services and employment opportunities?

Does the policy/proposal promote economic growth through encouraging new business?

Human Health

Encourage more active travel. Promote the maintenance and

improvement of recreational facilities.

To enhance and protect human health and promote healthy living through the promotion of more active travel behaviour, particularly walking and cycling.

Maintain and improve recreational facilities and promote access to health, social and recreational facilities.

Will the policy/proposal encourage walking/cycling rates, bringing them in line with national average?

Does the policy/proposal facilitate healthy lifestyles and address safety concerns which may have health effects, both physically and mentally, e.g. due to noise and flooding?

5. Assessment of Environmental Effects

5.1 Reasonable Alternatives

As part of the process of conducting the environmental assessment, the Act places a requirement on all environmental reports to give consideration to reasonable alternatives. As part of the assessment of the HESG, consideration has been given to alternative approaches which would achieve the overarching objectives of the HESG. At scoping stage it was considered that there were only two alternative approaches to achieving the objectives of the HESG:

to produce guidance in accordance with national policy; or

do nothing and allow the historic environment policy within the LDP to guide development relating to the historic environment.

Both of these alternatives are considered to be reasonable given that they would achieve the same objectives. The main difference would be that providing supplementary guidance would provide a greater level of detail for prospective applicants, ensuring a greater level of certainty in the planning application process.

Through the assessment process, alternative approaches have been considered in relation to each of the issues addressed within the SG; design quality, listed buildings, conservation areas, scheduled monuments and historic gardens and designed landscapes. It has not always been possible to identify reasonable alternatives due to the restrictive nature of higher level policies. Alternatives pertaining to each of the issues are covered below:

Design Quality

Alternative approach – to remove the design criteria and assess each application individually. This would be resource demanding on case officers, resulting in an increased number of delays in determining planning applications.

Listed Buildings

The policy essentially replicates national policy on listed buildings and there are therefore no reasonable alternatives to the content of this policy.

Conservation Areas

Remove the Design Principles and essentially allow Historic Environment Policy within the LDP to deal with applications affecting conservation areas. It is envisaged that this would lead to increased delays and greater uncertainty within the planning application process.

Scheduled Monuments

The guidance within the SG essentially replicates national policy on scheduled monuments and expands upon the information set out within the historic environment policy within the LDP. No reasonable alternatives to this policy could be identified.

Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes

Alternative – No proposals will be accepted which would have a negative impact upon historic gardens and designed landscapes. These estates should be preserved in their current form and any proposals for alternative uses will not be supported in the interests of maintaining the original character and appearance of the estates.

5.2 Assessment Methods

The environmental performance of both of the high-level alternatives was measured by inserting them into a matrix and determining their performance against each of the SEA objectives. This process also

offered the opportunity to consider appropriate mitigation measures which can be used to improve the environmental performance of the SG. The following categories have been used to assess the environmental performance:

Major Benefit: +++ Major Adverse: ---

Moderate Benefit: ++ Moderate Adverse: --

Minor Benefit: + Minor Adverse: -

Negligible: 0 Uncertain: ?

Uncertain Benefits: ? / + Uncertain Adverse: ? / -

Mixed Effects: + / -

Significance is a function of the magnitude of an environmental effect combined with the sensitivity or importance of the environmental receptor. The significance of effects is assessed during the assessment process using the methodology within Table 5-1.

Table 5-1: Significance of EffectSignificance Effects Major Adverse Effects

The action is very likely to lead to significant or severe damage or loss or a series of short term adverse effects leading to large scale and permanent negative effects e.g. reduced air quality requiring an AQMA to be designated with secondary, indirect effects to other SEA topics such as human health.

The action or proposed development is likely to result in moderate damage or loss to an internationally designated site leading to an overall major adverse effect.

The PPS or development could moderately compromise the character of multiple regionally or nationally important sites.Moderate Adverse Effects

The PPS has the potential for severe adverse effects (e.g. fundamental impairment of the integrity of) on a locally important site.

The action has the potential to have a moderate adverse effect on the setting of a nationally important site but does not affect the overall integrity of that site.

The action could have a moderate adverse effect on an environmental standard, benchmark or issue considered important at the regional level.The action could have moderate adverse effect on a regionally important site or issue.

Action is likely to lead to moderate damage or loss or a series of short term adverse effects leading to large scale and permanent effects e.g. to levels of soil contamination.

Minor Adverse Effects

Action is likely to lead to minor damage or loss or a series of short term adverse effects leading to large scale and permanent effects e.g. to levels of soil contamination.

The PPS or development could have minor or moderate effects to a locally important site or issue.

The PPS or development could have minor effects on a regionally important site.Uncertain Adverse Effects

Effects are considered adverse however, for reasons including insufficient information, it is difficult to ascertain with any certainty, the extent of effect.

Negligible A development that is unlikely to have any significant effect on the environmental quality of a site, standard, benchmark or issue.

Mixed Effects Effect is likely to be a combination of beneficial and adverse, particularly where effects are considered on sub-issues or areas.

Uncertain Effects Effect of action is not known or too unpredictable to assign a conclusive score.

Uncertain Benefits Effects are considered beneficial however, for reasons including insufficient information, it is difficult to ascertain with any certainty, the extent of the effect.

Minor Benefits The action would likely lead to a minor improvement in both the short and long term, leading to large scale, temporary or small scale permanent benefits e.g. for water, WFD targets may be met or exceeded in a small area.

The PPS or development would facilitate the minor restoration or enhancement of a locally or regionally valued important site.

Moderate Benefits The action would likely lead to a moderate improvement in both the short and long term, leading to large scale, temporary or medium scale permanent benefits.

Significance Effects The PPS or development would moderately benefit an area that presently fails to meets national or regional standards or benchmarks to meet those standards in the future.

The PPS or development would facilitate the moderate restoration or the enhancement of a site at of regional value.

The action would facilitate the minor restoration or the enhancement of a site at of national or international value.Major Benefits The action is likely to lead to an overall large improvement, major restoration, a new international designation or series of

smaller improvements e.g. to water quality with WFD targets met or exceeded on a large scale in the Plan area.

The action would significantly benefit an area that presently fails to meet international standards to a point that that it may meet those standards in the future.

5.3 Assessment Outcomes

It was considered that there were two stages to the assessment process; the first stage was to determine the environmental implications of producing supplementary guidance against the ‘do nothing’ option. In this instance the ‘do nothing’ alternative would effectively mean that the historic environment policy contained within the LDP would provide for the management of the historic environment in consideration of planning applications.

Through the assessment of these two options (set out within Appendix C) it became apparent that there was negligible difference in terms of the environmental performance of each of the options. This was because the historic environment policy contained within the LDP and the proposed SG would cover the same issues and would have the same objectives. The reason for producing the guidance is more of a planning reason than an environmental one. It is to provide applicants with greater detail in terms of what the Council would consider acceptable, thus providing greater certainty in the planning application process. For this reason, it was considered that the option not to produce the guidance was inappropriate.

The second stage of the assessment process is to consider how each of the policy areas will be addressed within the SG. The policies relating to each of the issues covered within the SG are set out within Appendix D. Appendix C sets out the assessment of the policies contained within the SG (and their alternatives) against the SEA objectives relating to each of the SEA topics.

The results of this stage of the assessment shows that the preferred options of the SG will result in benefits for almost all of the SEA topics, with the largest benefits being predicted for cultural heritage. The only potentially negative impacts that were predicted through the initial assessment were in relation to biodiversity, specifically relating to impacts upon EPS.

It is predicted that ‘population’ will benefit the least from the implementation of the HESG. This is mainly because of the lack of direct relevance between the SG and SEA objectives for ‘population’. Overall minor benefits are predicted for human health, mainly because certain features of the historic environment can provide opportunities for recreation. It therefore translates that the maintenance and enhancement of these features could have indirect benefits for human health.

Table 5-1: Mitigation and RecommendationsPolicy Option Initial

Assessment Weighting

Mitigation / Recommendation SAC Response Re – assessed Weighting

Reassessment with Mitigation

Design QualityPreferred Option ++ / + No mitigation measures proposed. N/A N/A N/AAlternative 1 ? / + No mitigation measures proposed. N/A N/A N/AListed BuildingsPreferred Option ++ / + All proposals for the conversion and re-use

of listed buildings will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon European Protected Species in line with the Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland). It is predicted that this will provide minor long terms local benefits for biodiversity.

LDP policy: natural heritage will ensure that the proposed conversion and re-use of listed buildings will be appropriately assessed for potential implications with regards to impacts upon European Protected Species (EPS) in line with the HRA. This SG will be statutorily linked to the LDP, therefore, must be read in conjunction with LDP policies. This offers sufficient protection of EPS, so reject recommendation.

++ / + The suggested mitigation measure was rejected on the basis that there is adequate protection already offered by another policy within the LDP, to which the SG is statutorily linked.

Conservation AreasPreferred Option + No mitigation measures proposed. N/A N/A N/AAlternative 1 + No mitigation measures proposed. N/A N/A N/AScheduled MonumentsPreferred Option ++ / + Any works having directly affecting

scheduled monuments structures will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon EPS. Whilst Scheduled Monument Consent is the responsibility of Historic Scotland, it is considered that it will be advantageous to highlight this issue at this stage in order to make prospective applicants aware of this issue at the earliest possible opportunity.

This SG will be statutorily linked to the LDP, therefore, must be read in conjunction with LDP policies. This offers sufficient protection of EPS, so reject recommendation.

++ / + The suggested mitigation measure was rejected on the basis that there is adequate protection already offered by another policy within the LDP, to which the SG is statutorily linked.

Historic Gardens and Designed LandscapesPreferred Option + All proposals for the restoration and re-use

of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

This SG will be statutorily linked to the LDP, therefore, must be read in conjunction with LDP policies. This offers sufficient protection of EPS, so reject recommendation.

+ The suggested mitigation measure was rejected on the basis that there is adequate protection already offered by another policy within the LDP, to which the SG is statutorily linked.

Alternative + / - All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

This SG will be statutorily linked to the LDP, therefore, must be read in conjunction with LDP policies. This offers sufficient protection of EPS, so reject recommendation.

+ / - The suggested mitigation measure was rejected on the basis that there is adequate protection already offered by another policy within the LDP, to which the SG is statutorily linked.

5.4 Residual and Cumulative Effects Assessment

The residual effects are those which are remaining following the application of the suggested mitigation measures. The only mitigation measures which were proposed were in relation to ‘Biodiversity’. However, the mitigation measures were all rejected on the basis that the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan (of which the SG forms a part), already contains the necessary mitigation through the ‘Natural Heritage’ policy.

The cumulative effects assessment is set out within Appendix C. The assessment shows that the implementation of the SG would result in environmental benefits for each of the SEA topics included within the assessment. In particular, moderate long term local and regional benefits are predicted for cultural heritage which is unsurprising given the subject matter of the SG and its objectives. Minor long term local benefits are predicted for both population and human health.

The overall performance of each of the policies is predicted to be environmentally beneficial. Of particular note are the policies relating to design quality, listed buildings and scheduled monuments. The assessment of each of these policies has determined that there will be minor to moderate long term local and regional benefits as a result of their implementation.

The assessment process has identified no instances where there could be negative implications for the environment as a result of the implementation of the SG. It is therefore predicted that the SG will result in environmental benefits for each of the identified topics, particularly cultural heritage.

Overall, the cumulative effects assessment has shown that the content will result in minor to moderate environmental benefits at both local and regional level. This is unsurprising given that the SG is generally concerned with the protection and effective management of features of the historic environment.

6. Conclusion

The influence of the SEA upon the SG has been limited as there has been little scope to alter the content of the document given that it is performing well against the SEA topics identified. Nonetheless, the SEA process has provided an opportunity to systematically test the content of the SG prior to it being implemented.

The assessment of each of the policies has shown that the SG would result in environmental benefits, with no negative impacts being predicted for any of the policies. The SG works within the scope of the Historic Environment policy contained within the South Ayrshire Proposed Local Development Plan which was identified as being an environmentally beneficial policy. It is therefore unsurprising to find that the document which will supplement this policy is also considered to be environmentally beneficial.

The overall cumulative effects of the SG are predicted to be minor to moderate, long term local and regional benefits. National benefits are also possible given that the SG provides for the protection and enhancement of A-listed buildings and Scheduled Monuments, which are both of national importance.

7. Monitoring Strategy

Section 19 of the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 requires the Responsible Authority, in this instance, South Ayrshire Council, to monitor the significant environmental effects of the implementation of the SG so that any unforeseen adverse effects can be identified at an early stage and remedial action taken.

The purpose of the monitoring is to measure the environmental outcome of the SG, the performance of the document against pre-defined environmental objectives or targets. Effective monitoring can contribute to managing uncertainty, improving knowledge, enhancing transparency and accountability and managing environmental information.

Monitoring the environmental effects of a plan is extremely difficult to do for a number of reasons. For example, a local authority may have several plans or programmes operating at the same time. An

indicator being used for the purposes of monitoring the effects of the LDP will, more often than not, also be influenced by the content of other plans and programmes or other factors. This makes it almost impossible to determine whether the effects that have been identified are as a direct result of the implementation of a particular plan.

What is being monitored and how it is being monitored has to be meaningful in order to justify the purpose of the monitoring strategy. It is considered that indicators should attempt to be as specific as possible to ensure that what is being measured is solely influenced by the plan to which the monitoring strategy relates. Where such a degree of specificity cannot be achieved then indicators should be applied on the basis that it cannot be ruled out that the plan will not have an impact upon the issue being monitored.

A useful and worthwhile monitoring strategy must also be reflective of the resources available to undertake the monitoring. In developing the monitoring strategy a number of indicators which were considered useful and which would, at least in part, perform the necessary function, had to be discounted on the basis that the monitoring associated with the indicators was impractical. For example monitoring the number of planning applications which relate to a specific issue is a considerable task and one which the Council undoubtedly do not have the resources to carry out. This has been one of the main challenges in developing a meaningful monitoring strategy.

7.1 Key Elements of the Monitoring Strategy

The monitoring strategy has been developed from the SEA objectives, the existing environmental baseline and significant effects identified during the environmental assessment.

Monitoring is a key part of the ongoing SEA process and the framework (as presented in Table 8-1) has been refined throughout the development of the LDP. The focus for monitoring should be on:

1. The significant environmental effects that give rise to irreversible effects on environmental attributes of a recognised value. Monitoring seeks to identify trends in advance of such irreversible damage being caused;

2. Significant effects where considerable uncertainty has been evident throughout the SEA process and where monitoring could enable remedial action to be taken; and,

3. Effects where a lack of information could constrain the decision making process associated with the delivery of projects e.g. the gathering of data over an extended timescale.

Monitoring helps consider whether predictions made within the SEA assessment process are accurate. If monitoring indicates a significant issue, remedial action may be required. This will involve a review of the content of the SG at the earliest opportunity. There is limited scope for altering SGs outwith the 5 yearly cycle for reviewing LDPs. One of the main reasons for this is that it can help to provide greater certainty in the application process and ensure consistency. Nonetheless, if significant issues of concern arose as a result of the content of the SG, there is greater scope for review than there would be with the LDP.

Table 7-1: Monitoring StrategySEA topic SEA objectives Indicator Data source Link to the SGCultural Heritage

Safeguard cultural heritage features and their settings through responsible design and positioning of development.

The number of planning applications which Historic Scotland objects to.

SAC Development Management

The SG seeks to protect, preserve and enhance specific features of the historic environment.

The number of listed buildings on The Buildings at Risk Register for Scotland.

The number of scheduled monuments assessed as being in unsatisfactory condition or with extensive significant problems.

Historic Scotland The SG seeks to provide a context for the continued use of buildings which are of value for their cultural heritage.

Human Health To enhance and protect human health and promote healthy living through the promotion of more active travel behaviour, particularly walking and cycling.

Percentage of the population considered to be in good health.

Scottish Census data and GROS

Many cultural heritage features within South Ayrshire provide opportunities for recreation e.g. Culzean Estate, Burns Cottage etc.

Maintain and improve recreational facilities and promote access to health, social and recreational facilities.

Rise in the number of and access to health, social and recreational facilities.

SAC Local Transport Strategy

Many features of the historic environment provide opportunities for recreation.

Population Improve the community environment & quality of life of residents.

No meaningful indicator could be identified. Both of these issues are highly subjective.

N/A The SG seeks to protect features of the historic environment, including conservation areas. Preserving the character of an area can have links to people’s quality of life and the overall community environment.

Maintain or enhance sustainable access to key services, amenities & employment, particularly for rural communities.

The number of visitors to specific cultural heritage features e.g. Culzean, Burns Cottage, Crossraguel etc.

Historic Scotland and National Trust

The SG recognises the economic value of the historic environment and provides a context for the maintenance and sensitive enhancement of certain features.

Promote economic growth to encourage retention of working age population.

Unemployment levels within South Ayrshire.

Census information Certain features of the historic environment provide employment. However, the role of the historic environment is minimal in this regard and is more likely to be influenced by activity within other business sectors and the global economy.

8. Consultation

8.1 Consultation Requirements

The SEA Act requires the plan-makers to provide evidence of consultation with relevant parties and demonstrate how the results of consultation have been taken into account during the plan development. This information is set out within Appendix B.

It is important that relevant authorities and the general public are given an early and effective opportunity within an appropriate timeframe to express their opinion on the PSALDP and the corresponding Environmental Report.

8.2 Consultation to Date

It was determined that there was a likelihood of significant environmental effects and therefore the assessment proceeded straight to the scoping stage.

A scoping report was prepared and issued for consultation to all of the consultation authorities, as well as inviting views from any other interested parties by publishing an advertisement in a local newspaper. This resulted in each of the consultation authorities providing their views on the proposed scope and content of the environmental report. There were several issues which had to be addressed at this stage, the most significant of which was the need to scope-in biodiversity. SNH aired some concerns they had in relation to potential impacts upon European protected species. As stated, all of the consultation comments issued at this stage are summarised within Appendix B. This also includes the Council’s response to the issues raised.

The issuing of this document presents a further opportunity for the consultation authorities and any other interested parties to submit their comments on the content of the environmental report prior to the adoption of the supplementary guidance. The consultation period commences on 13th May 2013 and runs until 17th June 2013.

Appendix AName of PPS Key Issues Implications for SG

InternationalEC (SEA) Directive 2001/42/EC

Defines the criteria under which an SEA must be conducted. Aims to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans with a view to promoting sustainable development by ensuing that an environmental assessment is carried out.

It states that an environmental assessment must be implemented for plans and programmes relating to town and country planning in accordance with Annexes I and II of the Directive 85/337/EEC.

NationalScottish Planning Policy Sets out national planning policy in relation to the historic environment

including listed buildings, conservation areas and historic gardens and designed landscapes. Development plans should provide the framework for the protection, conservation and enhancement of all elements of the historic environment and its setting.

The LDP SG should take account of the principles set out within this policy and ensure consistency with national planning policy.

Planning Advice Note 71: Conservation Area Management

Provides advice on designating and reviewing consultation areas. It also provides advice on managing change within conservations areas.

The SG should seek to manage change within conservation areas in accordance with the advice set out within the PAN, ensuring that there is scope for managing more contemporary designs within such areas.

Planning Advice Note 2/2011: Planning and Archaeology

Provides advice to planning authorities and developers on dealing with archaeological remains.

The SG should be consistent with the content of this document. The most pertinent section of the document to the SG is that which relates to scheduled monuments.

Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997

Sets the framework for listing buildings and designating conservation areas. Makes provision for regulative measures where development or other works affect listed buildings. It also sets out grant aid opportunities.

The LSP and SG should ensure that listed buildings, conservation areas and historic gardens and designed landscapes are not adversely affected by new development.

Ancient Monument and Archaeological Areas Act (1979)

Protects scheduled ancient monuments. Sets out scheduling and inspection procedures and details how works affecting scheduled ancient monuments should be controlled.

The LDP and SG should ensure that scheduled monuments and archaeological areas are not adversely affected by new development.

Historic Environment (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2011

The Act amends three pieces of primary legislation; The Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953, The Ancient Monument and Archaeological Areas Act (1979) and The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997.

The relevance of this document is minimal as it is more concerned with enforcement procedures and financial penalties relating to unauthorised works. Nonetheless, it does cover the control and management of certain ancient monuments and the LDP and SG should be consistent with the Act, where relevant.

Scottish Historic Environment Policy (December 2011)

Sets out the overall framework for the historic environment and notes particular challenges for the historic environment including the adverse effects of inappropriate development in conservation areas, delivery of renewable energy and short terms visions for the development of places.

The SHEP is of clear relevance to the SG as it sets out Scottish Ministers’ policies on the historic environment. The main implications relate to the protection of the historic environment and ensuring that any planned development does not have adverse impacts.

Managing Change in the Historic Environment guidance notes

The guidance notes essentially set out how the policies contained within the SHEP should be applied.

The guidance notes are more relevant for development management purposes, nonetheless the guidance contained within them does have some relevance for the SG.

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003

Establishes rights of way across land and rights of communities to buy lands. It also imposes certain duties on local authorities in relation to access on and over land in their areas and, in particular, requires them to draw up and adopt a plan of core paths in their areas.

Many of the core paths encompass valued features of the historic environment and it is therefore important to encourage the reuse, enhancement and restoration of such features and this has links to human health.

Let’s Make Scotland Aims to ensure that the Scottish population becomes more active, setting the The preservation, enhancement and restoration of valuable built heritage resources

More Active (2003) target of all adults accumulating at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week, and an hour for children. This will have marked health benefits for the Scottish population and contribute towards ridding Scotland of its ‘sick man of Europe’ tag.

can encourage recreation and it is clear that the LDP and SG have a role to play in encouraging such activities, even if this is done indirectly.

LocalSouth Ayrshire Proposed Local Development Plan

The document sets out spatial priorities for South Ayrshire and secures land zoning for specified uses to provide increased certainty for development. It contains a Historic Environment policy designed to provide for the protection, conservation and enhancement of the historic environment.

The SG must ensure consistency with the LDP, whilst providing a more detailed level of guidance than that set out within LDP Policy: Historic Environment.

South Ayrshire Local Plan

This forms part of the current development plan for South Ayrshire and forms the basis of much of the information which will be contained within the SG.

Much of the information contained within the SALP remains relevant and it therefore forms a useful basis for informing the LDP and SG.

Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Strategy (2012/17)

The Strategy aims to support the growth of the tourism industry within South Ayrshire, ensuring that it continues to make a valuable contribution to the local economy.

The SG should aid in the delivery of the Strategy by promoting the enhancement of the cultural heritage and ensuring that valuable tourism resources are adequately protected.

South Ayrshire Core Paths Plan

The document contains a network of routes throughout South Ayrshire in order to promote recreation and guide people to appropriate routes.

Maintenance of an effective network of routes throughout South Ayrshire can help to promote the historic environment by providing access to cultural heritage features, particularly those within rural parts of South Ayrshire.

Supplementary Planning Guidance : Design Guidelines for Advertisement and Commercial Signage

The document provides guidance on appropriate advertisement and commercial signage. In respect of listed buildings and conservation areas, it provides specific examples of the types of signage which would be considered acceptable. It also contains details of what would not be acceptable.

No major implications for the SG. This is just another way in which the Council seek to manage impacts upon the historic environment.

Window Alterations Guidelines Leaflet (Listed Buildings and Buildings in Conservation Areas)

Sets out general guidance relating to the replacement of windows on listed buildings and within conservation areas.

None. This information will provide additional guidance to that contained within the SG. Both documents will be consistent with each other. The leaflet provides more detailed guidance than that contained within the SG.

Supplementary Planning Guidance: Dormer Windows

Provides guidance on the installation of dormer windows, including on listed buildings and buildings within conservation areas.

None. Both documents will complement each other and where there are any overlaps, guidance will be consistent.

Supplementary Planning Guidance: Control of Sunshades and Canopies on Commercial Frontages

Seeks to control the proliferation of sunshades and canopies on shop fronts. Specific guidance is provided in relation to the use of these features on listed buildings.

The guidance will complement the information set out within the SG. This document will essentially provide additional and more detailed information to that which is provided within the SG.

Supplementary Planning Guidance: Velux Roof Lights

Provides detailed guidance in terms of what would be considered acceptable roof lights within conservation areas and on listed buildings.

None. The document provides a more detailed level of guidance than that contained within the SG. Both documents will be consistent with each other.

Planning Policy No. 16: Replacement windows in listed buildings and buildings within conservation areas

Provides guidance on the replacement of listed buildings and buildings located within conservation areas.

None. This document will complement the information contained within the SG, ensuring that there is consistency between the two.

Planning Policy No. 19: Satellite Receiver Dishes

Provides guidance on the installation of satellite receiver dishes, including on listed buildings and buildings within conservation areas.

The information contained within this document will complement the information to be contained within the SG. The SG will ensure that there is consistency with this document when setting out general design principles and criteria.

Supplementary Planning Guidance: Shopfront Security

Provides guidance on the use of shutters and grilles on the front of shopfronts. It provides detailed guidance in terms of what would be deemed appropriate for use on listed buildings and within conservation areas.

The information contained within this document will complement the information to be contained within the SG. The SG will ensure that there is consistency with this document when setting out general design principles and criteria.

Appendix BConsultation body

Reference ER reference Consultation body comment Response Action for SG

SEPA General comments We note that the SEA topics within our remit (soil, water, air, waste, and climate change) have been scoped out of the assessment and this is supported by adequate justification. It is noted that human health will be scoped in and will focus on how features of the historic environment can provide opportunities for physical and mental recreation. We do not provide comment on recreational aspects of human health. We are content with the proposed scope of the assessment and have no further detailed comments on the scoping report.

Noted None

Historic Scotland General comments I note that cultural heritage has been scoped into the assessment. In view of the subject and scope of this supplementary guidance, I welcome your recognition of the potential significant effects that it may have on the historic environment. Subject to the detailed comments provided in the attached Annex 1, I am content with the scope and level of detail proposed for the SEA.

Noted None

Detailed comments

Consultation timescales Section 6 and table 6-1 of the scoping report indicate that there will be a consultation period of five weeks for the draft ER. I am content with this timescale. Please note that, for administrative purposes, Historic Scotland consider that the consultation period commences on receipt of the relevant documents by the SEA Gateway.

Noted None

Relationship with other Plans, Programmes and Strategies / Annex 1: Relevant Plans, Policies and Strategies

I recommend that you include Planning Advice Note (PAN) 2/2011: Planning and Archaeology (www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2011/08/04132003/0) within these sections.

This has been included within the relevant section. None

Relationship with other Plans, Programmes and Strategies / Annex 1: Relevant Plans, Policies and Strategies

As South Ayrshire is a coastal area, I recommend that you include the following PPS: Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 Protection of Military Remains Act 1986 The Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 Historic Scotland’s Strategy for the Protection, Management and Promotion of Marine

Heritage 2012-15

None of the issues relevant to the historic value of the marine environment are covered within the SG and therefore none of these documents are relevant.

None

Alternatives I note that there are no reasonable alternatives to the five policy areas which will be addressed within the SG. This section, and Table 5-3, suggests that you intend to assess only the overarching objectives of these five policy areas, rather than the detailed content associated with them. Through the iterative process of developing the SG, I would expect that you would identify reasonable alternatives in terms of alternative wording or content relating to these policy areas. Where this is the case, these alternatives should be assessed as part of the overall SEA.

The SG has to operate within the scope of the Historic Environment Policy. It is therefore clear that there is limited scope in terms of what the SG can achieve and therefore any alternatives would have to work within the scope of the policy. This would mean that any alternation to the weighting would be insignificant. Nonetheless, consideration will be given to alternatives where reasonable and worthwhile. Alternatives have been devised for some of the policy areas.

Following consideration of the alternatives, there are no actions for the SG.

Framework for assessing environmental effects

Table 2-1: Historic Environment SG Key Facts, in setting out the purpose of the SG, states that it will provide a framework for the protection, conservation and enhancement of all (my emphasis) elements of the historic environment. You have set out the five policy areas which are to be addressed in the SG, which have been taken from the LDP Policy: Historic Environment. I note that the policy options outlined focus on designated heritage assets, with the exception of the historic gardens and designed landscapes policy area which encompasses both Inventory and non Inventory sites, and country estates (which are also addressed under a separate LDP policy).

In view of this, the SEA could include assessment of alternatives relating to the inclusion or omission from the SG of detailed guidance relating to other undesignated heritage assets such as archaeology (including marine archaeology), historic battlefields, vernacular buildings etc.

There are other policies within the LDP which consider archaeology and vernacular buildings. The reference to “all elements of the historic environment” has been removed.

None

SEA objectives I am broadly content with the SEA objective for Cultural Heritage which is provided in Table 5-2. You may find helpful to also apply more detailed SEA criteria or questions (such as those used for the SEA of the Local Development Plan (LDP) itself).

The analytical questions contained within the LDP ER have been included within the environmental report.

None

SEA objectives Notwithstanding the potential scope and content of the SG itself, the SEA objective (and supplementary criteria / questions) should be developed an applied in such a way that ensure that effect on the undesignated / unknown historic environment baseline are assessed, rather than solely focussing on designated heritage assets.

The purpose of the SG is to provide guidance relating to specific, identified features of the historic environment and not unknown or undesignated features. Such features can be appropriately managed through the provisions of the LDP. Notwithstanding, the assessment cannot account for sites which are unknown at present.

None

Mitigation The Environmental Report should provide information on the measures proposed to mitigate any significant environmental effects of the SG. The ER should also clearly describe any changes made to the SG as a result of the environmental assessment.

Consideration has been given to mitigation measures as part of every assessment that has been undertaken related to the SG. The mitigation measures are outlined within Table 6-1 along with details of whether the suggested measures is accepted or rejected.

None

Monitoring At the monitoring stage, it is most helpful to develop indicators that are closely related to the expected effects of the SG. For example, one cultural heritage indicator might be ‘the number and outcome of planning applications where scheduled monuments are significantly affected’.

The ER includes a Monitoring Strategy which is aimed at measuring the direct effects of the SG. Devising an effective monitoring strategy has proven to be difficult for a number of reasons; there are a number of factors outwith the scope of

None

the SG which influence the monitoring strategy, there are resource constraints which must be reflected in the strategy and, what is being measured has to be objective. All of these factors have contributed to devising a monitoring strategy which has recognisable constraints.

SNH General comments We consider this to be a well presented SEA Scoping Report and in general we are content with the scope and level of detail proposed within the SR. The main issue we have is that we believe Biodiversity should be scoped into the ER and we explain this more fully in the Annex to this letter. Our comments follow the sequence of the Scoping Report and use the paragraph or text headings.

Noted None

Detailed comments

Table 3-1 Relevant PPSs and associated implications

The table omits The Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland). This legislation provides the protection afforded to European Protected Species (EPS). Of particular relevance to the ER for the SG on the historic environment is the potential impact on the EPS, bats. The breeding and hibernating requirements of bats are often met by conditions in historic or listed buildings because of the construction materials, design and scale of such buildings. There could be impacts on these EPS species from this guidance which is aiming to assess development proposals as described in paragraph 3.2.

Accepted. Although no issues were mentioned on this regard during the consultation on the pLDP.

Table 3.1 of the ER has been updated to reflect this.

None

Table 4-1: Key Baseline Data If the Habitats Regulations is included as a relevant PPS then the ER should include an assessment of the implications and this will mean that the SEA topic Biodiversity should be scoped in and comments on this included in Table 4-1: Key Baseline Data.

Accepted. The ER needs to be amended and updated accordingly.

Table 4-1: Key Baseline Data For reasons noted above we believe Biodiversity is included in the Baseline Data. If this is included we believe that under ‘Summary of baseline ‘the European importance of bats should be noted along with role that historic and listed building plays in their ecology. Environmental problems/issues relevant to the SG should include reference to the status of bats and their vulnerability particularly at maternity roosts or hibernaculum. The column on the ‘Implications for the SG’ should make specific reference to protection of bats as follows:

“...The SG should highlight potential impacts on bats and the need for protection of this European Protected Species (EPS)...”

Table 4-1 has been updated to reflect the suggested changes. The wording which has been used is slightly different to that which was suggested.

Table 4-1: Key Baseline Data This table also includes the following text in the row on SEA topic ‘Cultural Heritage’; “...The SG should ensure that adequate protection is given to valued features of the natural environment..”

This reference to ‘valued features of the natural heritage’ may be an error as the rest of this row refers to cultural heritage.

Amended as suggested. None

Table 5-1: Scoping in/out of SEA Topics

Following from the above, our views do not accord with the comments here on scoping Biodiversity out of the ER.

Biodiversity has been scoped into the assessment. Pending outcome of the assessment.

Appendix CSEA Topic and Associated Objectives, encompassing the associated questions

Option 1: to produce guidance in accordance with national policy on the historic environment

Option 2: do nothing and allow the Historic Environment Policy within the LDP to guide development relating to the historic environment

Biodiversity1. Ensure that European Protected

Species are afforded the necessary level of protection, according with the terms of the Habitats Regulations.

0 National guidance on the historic environment makes little mention of impacts upon natural heritage.

0 This option will have no identifiable impacts upon natural heritage features. Protection of such features are offered by other policies within the LDP in any case.

Cultural Heritage1. Safeguard cultural heritage

features and their settings through responsible design and positioning of development.

+++

Major Benefit: To produce guidance in line with national policy is directly in accordance with this objective and it is therefore clear that major benefits for cultural heritage would ensue.

++ Moderate benefits: The HE Policy is in accordance with this objective, however it lacks detail and there is therefore scope for misinterpretation. Nonetheless, it is considered that there would be moderate benefits.

Human Health1. To enhance and protect human

health & promote healthy living through improved active travel opportunities, particularly the quality of and, availability to walk and cycle.

0 Negligible: The historic environment SG would not be directly relevant in this regard although maintenance of formal and informal paths can provide for access to valued cultural heritage features.

0 Negligible: The historic environment policy would not be directly relevant in this regard although maintenance of formal and informal paths can provide for access to valued cultural heritage features.

2. Maintain and improve recreational facilities and promote access to health, social and recreational facilities.

++ Moderate benefits: National guidance promotes the maintenance and enhancement of cultural heritage features and therefore this would be directly in line with this objective given that many cultural heritage features are used for recreational purposes.

++ Moderate benefits: The HE policy promotes the maintenance and enhancement of cultural heritage features and will therefore result in moderate benefits against this objective.

Population1. Improve the community

environment & quality of life of residents.

0 Negligible effects: There is no clear link between the effective management of features of the historic environment and quality of life.

0 Negligible effects: There is no clear link between the effective management of features of the historic environment and quality of life.

2. Maintain or enhance sustainable access to key services, amenities & employment, particularly for rural communities.

0 Negligible effects: This objective is related to access which would be outwith the scope of the SG.

0 Negligible effects: This objective is related to access which is outwith the scope of the HE Policy.

3. Promote economic growth to encourage retention of working age population.

?/+ Uncertain benefits: Cultural heritage features can make a considerable contribution to the local economy through encouraging tourism and providing employment opportunities. However, this would be more of a secondary effect of the SG and therefore the extent of any benefits is uncertain at this stage.

?/+ Uncertain benefits: Cultural heritage features can make a considerable contribution to the local economy through encouraging tourism and providing employment opportunities. However, this would be more of a secondary effect of the HE Policy and therefore the extent of any benefits is uncertain at this stage.

SEA Objectives Initial Weighting

Weighting after Mitigation

Summary

Design QualityBiodiversity 0 0 Negligible effects: This policy has little or no relevance to biodiversity.Cultural Heritage

++ ++ Moderate long term local and regional benefits: The policy sets out specific criteria designed to effectively manage any impacts upon the built heritage. The criteria are comprehensive and it is considered that this will lead to considerable benefits for cultural heritage features within South Ayrshire in terms of protecting their character and setting, whilst ensuring that the maintenance of specific features is done sensitively.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health + + Minor long term local benefits: Some features of the historic environment are recreational facilities providing opportunities for physical and social recreation. The policy will help contribute to the proper maintenance and enhancement of features of the historic environment, thereby making a contribution to human health by keeping such facilities operational. Any benefits in this regard are secondary.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population 0 0 Negligible effects: The policy has little relevance to the SEA objectives relating to Population. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary ++ / + ++ / + Moderate to minor long term benefits: The policy provides comprehensive guidance for development relating to features of the historic environment. Given that there are structures of national and regional importance within South Ayrshire, it is considered that there will be minor to moderate benefits as a result of the implementation of such a policy. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Proposed Mitigation

No mitigation measures proposed.

Alternative: To remove the design criteria and assess each application individually. Biodiversity 0 0 Negligible effects: This policy has little or no relevance to biodiversity.Cultural Heritage

? / + ? / + Uncertain benefits: Although the overall thrust of the policy is unaltered in terms of what it is strategically trying to achieve, the absence of additional detail relating to specific elements of the design process means that there is a great deal of uncertainty in terms of what would be achieved in terms of the cultural heritage objectives. The assessment process would become much more subjective and would be heavily reliant upon the conclusions of individual case officers. This would lead to an uncertain outcome and would likely increase the time taken to determine planning applications. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health ? / + ? / + Uncertain benefits: Many features of the historic environment are recreational facilities providing opportunities for social and physical recreation. The absence of design criteria and leaving each proposal to be assessed individually means that although it is likely to result in the maintenance and improvement of facilities which make a positive contribution to human health, the removal of criteria will reduce the level of consistency with which applications are assessed and therefore the extent of any benefits is likely to become more diluted. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population 0 0 Negligible effects: The policy has little relevance to the SEA objectives relating to Population. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary ? / + ? / + Uncertain benefits: It is apparent that the removal of design criteria leaves the assessment of applications more open to interpretation and much more down to the views of individual case officers. The extent of any benefits therefore becomes uncertain as there is no definitive criteria against which the SEA objectives can be measured. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Proposed Mitigation

No mitigation measures proposed.

Listed BuildingsBiodiversity ? / - 0 Uncertain adverse effects: The policy promotes the restoration and re-use of listed buildings. Listed buildings can often be ideal locations for hibernating and breeding of bats. It is therefore foreseeable that if any works

to restore or re-use listed buildings are carried out without a full understanding of the impacts upon bats, there may be adverse effects upon the bats which are European Protected Species (EPS). Mitigation: All proposals for the conversion and re-use of listed buildings will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon European Protected Species in line with the Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland). It is predicted that this will neutralise any potentially adverse effects.

Cultural Heritage

++ ++ Moderate benefits: The policy will provide direct benefits in relation to the SEA objectives for this topic. The policy will provide for the protection and enhancement of listed buildings, including their settings. Given that South Ayrshire contains several structure of national and regional importance, it is predicted that the benefits would be moderate. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health + + Minor benefits: The policy provides for the protection and enhancement of listed buildings. Listed buildings can often be used for recreational purposes and therefore there are links to the SEA objectives. However, it is considered that the extent of any benefits would be minor as features of the historic environment will only make a small contribution to human health within South Ayrshire.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population 0 0 Negligible: The policy has little relevance to the SEA objectives relating to Population.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary ++ / + ++ / + Moderate to minor long term local, regional and national benefits: The policy provides for the protection of listed buildings which has clear benefits for cultural heritage and the associated SEA objectives and, to a lesser extent, human health. The extent to which there would be benefits for human health is considered to be minor given that there are other factors which will play a greater role in promoting recreational activities.Mitigation: All proposals for the conversion and re-use of listed buildings will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon European Protected Species in line with the Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland).

Proposed Mitigation

All proposals for the conversion and re-use of listed buildings will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon European Protected Species in line with the Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland). It is predicted that this will provide minor long terms local benefits for biodiversity.

Conservation AreasBiodiversity 0 0 Negligible effects: The baseline data indicates that there are no known EPS within or around any of the designated conservation areas. Negligible effects are therefore predicted.Cultural Heritage

++ ++ Moderate benefits: The policy contains detailed information relating to conservation areas, ensuring that they are afforded a high level of protection in the consideration of any development proposals affecting them. This will have moderate benefits in relation to cultural heritage as the policy demonstrates a clear understanding of the importance of conservation areas and contains a comprehensive set of criteria for the management of such areas. In addition, some of the conservation areas within South Ayrshire are attributed with ‘outstanding status’. Ensuring that they are appropriately managed will have moderate benefits for cultural heritage.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health ? / + ? / + Uncertain benefits: Conservation areas can often contain buildings which are associated with some forms of recreation. Given that the policy provides a high level of protection for these areas and encourages their enhancement, there may be indirect benefits for human health. The extent of any benefit is debatable given that most of the effects relating to this SEA topic would be secondary.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population + + Minor long term local benefits: Protection and enhancement of conservation areas can ensure that they are more pleasant places to live and work which can have benefits in terms of quality of life. The extent to which this contributes to quality of life is debatable and therefore, in terms of this assessment, it is considered that ‘minor benefits’ is an accurate weighting. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary + + Minor long term local benefits: It is clear that the policy would be largely beneficial for the SEA objectives. The only area of dubiety is in relation to the extent to which it would benefit human health as any benefits in this regard would be secondary. There will be clear benefits for cultural heritage as this has direct relevance to the conservation areas policy and the criteria set out within it. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Proposed Mitigation

No mitigation measures proposed.

Alternative: Remove the Design Principles and essentially allow Historic Environment Policy within the LDP to deal with applications affecting conservation areas.Biodiversity 0 0 Negligible effects: The baseline data indicates that there are no known EPS within or around any of the designated conservation areas. Negligible effects are therefore predicted.Cultural Heritage

+ + Minor long term local benefits: The aims of the HE policy, relating to conservation areas are to provide a context for the improvement and preservation of their character and appearance. This ensures that the policy is likely to result in benefits for cultural heritage features. However, the absence of more specific criteria means that the detailed assessment will be more heavily reliant upon the views of individual case officers. This will have an impact upon the level of consistency in assessing applications and the extent to which there will be benefits for cultural heritage features will be more diluted.

Human Health ? / + ? / + Uncertain benefits: Conservation areas can often contain buildings which are associated with some forms of recreation. Given that the policy provides a high level of protection for these areas and encourages their enhancement, there may be indirect benefits for human health. The extent of any benefit is debatable given that most of the effects relating to this SEA topic would be secondary.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population + + Minor long term local benefits: Protection and enhancement of conservation areas can ensure that they are more pleasant places to live and work which can have benefits in terms of quality of life. The extent to which this contributes to quality of life is debatable and therefore, in terms of this assessment, it is considered that ‘minor benefits’ is an accurate weighting. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary + + Minor long term local benefits: It is clear that the policy would be largely beneficial for the SEA objectives. The only area of dubiety is in relation to the extent to which it would benefit human health as any benefits in this regard would be secondary. There will be benefits for cultural heritage as this has direct relevance to the conservation areas policy. The absence of specific criteria, however, has reduced the weighting attributed to ‘cultural heritage’ within the assessment of the preferred option. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Proposed Mitigation

No mitigation proposed.

Scheduled MonumentsBiodiversity ? / - 0 Uncertain adverse effects: Some scheduled monuments can provide ideal locations for hibernating and breeding bats. The policy provides a robust framework for managing any impacts upon scheduled monuments and

developments affecting these resources. It is foreseeable that any development associated or impacting upon a scheduled monument could have adverse implications for EPS, depending upon the time of year. Mitigation: Any works having directly affecting scheduled monuments structures will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon EPS. Whilst Scheduled Monument Consent is the responsibility of Historic Scotland, it is considered that it will be advantageous to highlight this issue at this stage in order to make prospective applicants aware of this issue at the earliest possible opportunity.

Cultural Heritage

++ ++ Moderate benefit: Scheduled Monuments are monuments of national importance. The policy seeks to firstly provide for their protection and promotes their use for educational or recreational purposes. Given that the policy is fundamentally concerned with protecting these resources, this has direct links for the cultural heritage objectives. Moderate benefits are predicted because scheduled monuments are of national importance.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health + + Minor benefits: The policy will have direct benefits in relation to one of the SEA objectives as the policy seeks to promote scheduled monuments for educational and recreational purposes. However, there are only a limited number of scheduled monuments which could make a contribution in this regard and it is therefore considered that the extent of any benefit would be minor. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population 0 0 Negligible: The policy has little relevance to the SEA objectives relating to Population.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary ++ / + ++ / + Moderate to minor long term local benefits: The policy seeks to fundamentally protect scheduled monuments and also to promote them for use as educational and recreational facilities. There are therefore clear and direct benefits for the SEA objectives associated with cultural heritage and human health.Mitigation: Any works having directly affecting scheduled monuments structures will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon EPS. Whilst Scheduled Monument Consent is the responsibility of Historic Scotland, it is considered that it will be advantageous to highlight this issue at this stage in order to make prospective applicants aware of this issue at the earliest possible opportunity.

Proposed Mitigation

Any works having directly affecting scheduled monuments structures will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon EPS. Whilst Scheduled Monument Consent is the responsibility of Historic Scotland, it is considered that it will be advantageous to highlight this issue at this stage in order to make prospective applicants aware of this issue at the earliest possible opportunity.

Historic Gardens and Designed LandscapesBiodiversity ? / - 0 Uncertain adverse effects: The restoration and re-use of some country estates may have adverse implications for some species of bats. If buildings are vacant then it is possible that they are used by bats for hibernating

or breeding purposes. Mitigation: All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

Cultural Heritage

+ + Minor benefits: The policy seeks to protect HG & DL and encourages the maintenance of such estates. However, in recognition that a number of these estates are declining, it also provides a context for a more flexible use of such estates in an effort to preserve their overall integrity. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health + + Minor benefits: HG & DL can provide excellent opportunities for recreation. Given that the policy seeks to protect these resources and provides a flexible context for their continued use, it is considered that there will be minor benefits. In terms of the corresponding SEA objectives. Culzean and Auchincruive are two examples of such estates. Culzean, in particular, is an important resource for recreational activities.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population + + Minor benefits: Maintaining HG & DL can ensure that people have access to quality recreational facilities which can improve and enhance people’s quality of life. Some estates can also provide employment opportunities and it is therefore considered that minor benefits will ensue in this regard if the estates are maintained and continue to be operational.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary + + Minor long term local benefits: The implementation of this policy will result in minor benefits for each of the SEA topics for the reasons set out above. It is considered that this would lead to overall long term local benefits as a result of the implementation of this policy.Mitigation: All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

Proposed Mitigation

All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

Alternative: No proposals will be accepted which would have a negative impact upon Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes. These estates should be preserved in their current form and any proposals for alternative uses will not be supported in the interests of maintaining the original character and appearance of the estates.Biodiversity ? / - 0 Uncertain adverse effects: The restoration of some country estates may have adverse implications for some species of bats. If buildings are vacant then it is possible that they are used by bats for hibernating or

breeding purposes.Mitigation: All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

Cultural Heritage

+ / - + / - Mixed effects: Although this policy is intended to preserve the estates and the buildings within them, it does not recognise that circumstances change and estates may not be able to viably operate as they once have. It could be the case that estates fall into disrepair if there is no context for alternative uses this could have negative implications for the estates and buildings within them. Mixed effects are therefore predicted.

Human Health + / - + / - Mixed effects: HG & DL can provide excellent opportunities for recreation. Given that the policy seeks to protect these resources it is considered that long term local and regional benefits could be accrued for human health. However, the lack of flexibility within the policy means that estates could fall into disrepair and may not be properly maintained. They would therefore be less likely to be used by members of the public for recreational purposes. Mixed effects are therefore predicted.

Population + / - + / - Mixed effects: Maintaining HG & DL can ensure that people have access to quality recreational facilities which can improve and enhance people’s quality of life. However, without the context for alternative uses to these estates it is foreseeable that they could deteriorate, resulting in less people sing the estates for recreational purposes. Mixed effects are therefore predicted.

Summary + / - + / - Mixed effects: It is apparent that whilst seeking to maintain the historic gardens and designed landscapes in their existing form will have benefits for all of the SEA topics, the lack of flexibility within the policy means that there will also be adverse effects. If the estates are not provided with a flexible context within which they can operate, it is inevitable that some will not be properly maintained and could fall into disrepair. It is considered that this would have negative effects for all of the SEA topics. Mitigation: All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

Proposed Mitigation

All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

Residual effects assessment

SEA objectives Initial Weighting Amended Weighting

Listed Buildings

Biodiversity, Flora & Fauna

? / - 0 Uncertain adverse effects: The policy promotes the restoration and re-use of listed buildings. Listed buildings can often be ideal locations for hibernating and breeding of bats. It is therefore foreseeable that if any works to restore or re-use listed buildings are carried out without a full understanding of the impacts upon bats, there may be adverse effects upon the bats which are European Protected Species (EPS). Mitigation: All proposals for the conversion and re-use of listed buildings will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon European Protected Species in line with the Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland). It is predicted that this will provide minor long terms local benefits for biodiversity. Rejected on the basis that the suggested mitigation measure is provided by the natural heritage policy, contained within the LDP. Mitigation: Given that the SG is statutorily linked to the LDP, it is reasonable to conclude that the policies contained within LDP will be relevant to the content of the SG. The wording contained within the natural heritage policy makes it clear that the level of protection afforded to EPS is in direct compliance with the relevant legislation. It is considered that this will neutralise any potential impacts upon EPS, thereby ensuring overall negligible effects.

Cultural Heritage++ ++ Moderate benefits: The policy will provide direct benefits in relation to the SEA objectives for this topic. The policy will provide for the protection and enhancement of listed buildings, including their

settings. Given that South Ayrshire contains several structure of national and regional importance, it is predicted that the benefits would be moderate. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health+ + Minor benefits: The policy provides for the protection and enhancement of listed buildings. Listed buildings can often be used for recreational purposes and therefore there are links to the SEA

objectives. However, it is considered that the extent of any benefits would be minor as features of the historic environment will only make a small contribution to human health within South Ayrshire.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population 0 0 Negligible: The policy has little relevance to the SEA objectives relating to Population.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary

++ / + ++ / + Moderate to minor long term local, regional and national benefits: The policy provides for the protection of listed buildings which has clear benefits for cultural heritage and the associated SEA objectives and, to a lesser extent, human health. The extent to which there would be benefits for human health is considered to be minor given that there are other factors which will play a greater role in promoting recreational activities.Mitigation: All proposals for the conversion and re-use of listed buildings will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon European Protected Species in line with the Habitats Regulations 1994 (as amended in Scotland).

Scheduled Monuments

Biodiversity, Flora & Fauna

? / - 0 Uncertain adverse effects: Some scheduled monuments can provide ideal locations for hibernating and breeding bats. The policy provides a robust framework for managing any impacts upon scheduled monuments and developments affecting these resources. It is foreseeable that any development associated or impacting upon a scheduled monument could have adverse implications for EPS, depending upon the time of year. Mitigation: Any works having directly affecting scheduled monuments structures will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon EPS. Whilst Scheduled Monument Consent is the responsibility of Historic Scotland, it is considered that it will be advantageous to highlight this issue at this stage in order to make prospective applicants aware of this issue at the earliest possible opportunity. Rejected on the basis that the suggested mitigation measure is provided by the natural heritage policy, contained within the LDP.Mitigation: Given that the SG is statutorily linked to the LDP, it is reasonable to conclude that the policies contained within LDP will be relevant to the content of the SG. The wording contained within the natural heritage policy makes it clear that the level of protection afforded to EPS is in direct compliance with the relevant legislation. It is considered that this will neutralise any potential impacts upon EPS, thereby ensuring overall negligible effects.

Cultural Heritage

++ ++ Moderate benefit: Scheduled Monuments are monuments of national importance. The policy seeks to firstly provide for their protection and promotes their use for educational or recreational purposes. Given that the policy is fundamentally concerned with protecting these resources, this has direct links for the cultural heritage objectives. Moderate benefits are predicted because scheduled monuments are of national importance.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health+ + Minor benefits: The policy will have direct benefits in relation to one of the SEA objectives as the policy seeks to promote scheduled monuments for educational and recreational purposes. However,

there are only a limited number of scheduled monuments which could make a contribution in this regard and it is therefore considered that the extent of any benefit would be minor. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population 0 0 Negligible: The policy has little relevance to the SEA objectives relating to Population.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary

++ / + ++ / + Moderate to minor long term local benefits: The policy seeks to fundamentally protect scheduled monuments and also to promote them for use as educational and recreational facilities. There are therefore clear and direct benefits for the SEA objectives associated with cultural heritage and human health.Mitigation: Any works having directly affecting scheduled monuments structures will be required to demonstrate that there will be no adverse impacts upon EPS. Whilst Scheduled Monument Consent is the responsibility of Historic Scotland, it is considered that it will be advantageous to highlight this issue at this stage in order to make prospective applicants aware of this issue at the earliest possible opportunity.

Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes

Biodiversity, Flora & Fauna

? / - 0 Uncertain adverse effects: The restoration and re-use of some country estates may have adverse implications for some species of bats. If buildings are vacant then it is possible that they are used by bats for hibernating or breeding purposes. Mitigation: All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS. Rejected on the basis that the suggested mitigation measure is provided by the natural heritage policy, contained within the LDP. Mitigation: Given that the SG is statutorily linked to the LDP, it is reasonable to conclude that the policies contained within LDP will be relevant to the content of the SG. The wording contained within the natural heritage policy makes it clear that the level of protection afforded to EPS is in direct compliance with the relevant legislation. It is considered that this will neutralise any potential impacts upon EPS, thereby ensuring overall negligible effects.

Cultural Heritage+ + Minor benefits: The policy seeks to protect HG & DL and encourages the maintenance of such estates. However, in recognition that a number of these estates are declining, it also provides a context

for a more flexible use of such estates in an effort to preserve their overall integrity. Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Human Health + + Minor benefits: HG & DL can provide excellent opportunities for recreation. Given that the policy seeks to protect these resources and provides a flexible context for their continued use, it is

SEA objectives Initial Weighting Amended Weighting

considered that there will be minor benefits. In terms of the corresponding SEA objectives. Culzean and Auchincruive are two examples of such estates. Culzean, in particular, is an important resource for recreational activities.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Population+ + Minor benefits: Maintaining HG & DL can ensure that people have access to quality recreational facilities which can improve and enhance people’s quality of life. Some estates can also provide

employment opportunities and it is therefore considered that minor benefits will ensue in this regard if the estates are maintained and continue to be operational.Mitigation: No mitigation measures proposed.

Summary+ + Minor long term local benefits: The implementation of this policy will result in minor benefits for each of the SEA topics for the reasons set out above. It is considered that this would lead to overall

long term local benefits as a result of the implementation of this policy.Mitigation: All proposals for the restoration and re-use of buildings within historic gardens and designed landscapes must ensure that there will be no adverse impacts upon any EPS.

Cumulative Effects Assessment

Biodiversity Cultural Heritage Human Health Population Cumulative effects of the policyDesign Quality 0 ++ + 0 ++ / +Listed Buildings 0 ++ + 0 ++ / +Conservation Areas 0 ++ ? / + + +Scheduled Monuments 0 ++ + 0 ++ / +Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes

0 + + + +

Cumulative impacts upon SEA Topics

0 ++ + + ++ / +

Appendix D

Supplementary Guidance Policy 1: Design Quality

Development and building design in the past relied heavily on local tradition, building form and materials. However, more recently the adoption of modern standardised building materials and building design has, in some cases, begun to erode the unique character of South Ayrshire’s environment. Good design is therefore clearly relevant when considering proposals which may affect older buildings; especially those which are listed due to their architectural or historic interest. Careful consideration should however also be given to the design of all new development, particularly that which might affect the setting of historic buildings/monuments.

Whilst it is considered that style is a matter of personal taste, or preference, good design is easier to define and forms a strong element of Government planning policy and guidance in terms of buildings, their settings and the spaces around them. Design is therefore viewed as an important element in the protection of townscape character, as a means of enhancing environmental quality and as a way of ensuring a positive contribution is made by new development to the environment as a whole.

To ensure a consistent high standard of development within the plan area, all development proposals relating to aspects of the built heritage environment, as set out in LDP Policy: Historic Environment, will be considered in terms of compliance with the following “General Criteria for New Development”, which applies to both new development and extensions to existing development/buildings.

General Criteria for New Development 1. The Council is committed to the promotion of developments which comprise well designed buildings,

which are sensitive to their locality and respect the local vernacular building and townscape character built with high quality materials, and incorporating attractive open spaces - both for public or private use which are sympathetic and make a positive contribution to the essential townscape character of the main towns, settlements and/or countryside.

2. The Council will encourage contemporary architecture where in compliance with point one above. 3. All development, regardless of scale, will be expected to be carefully designed so as to be appropriate in

terms of the character of the area in which it is to be located. 4. The design of a proposed development should respect and reflect the character of its setting and locality

in terms of: - the density of the proposed development; - the ratio, location and treatment of open space provision to built form; - building height, scale and massing; - dominant traditional architectural characteristics of the locality; and - wall/roof proportions, windows and door proportion and siting within façade.

5. Materials used in the construction of proposed development should reflect the character of buildings in the locality in terms of:

- material type, colour, texture, roof materials, window frames and doors; and - the size, or appearance of size, of individual building blocks or units (e.g. brick, stone blocks etc.)

6. New development and extensions to existing premises must demonstrate consideration for the amenity of adjoining property - especially in terms of the maintenance of privacy and ambient daylight in dwellings and their garden spaces.

7. Developments should have regard to the principles of barrier free design in order that they are easy to use by any member of the population, especially those with special needs or mobility requirements. This is especially relevant in respect of facilities and premises open to the public.

8. Development proposals should take into account whether elements of the building’s design, or site layout could create potential problems in terms of personal or property security and aim to eliminate such possibilities. Different uses of the proposed development, or different times of usage, may require consideration in this regard.

Supplementary Guidance Policy 2: Listed Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest

The Council recognises the value of listed buildings in terms of their heritage value, but also recognises their potential economic and social benefits to the community as a whole. Consequently, the Council will advise and encourage owners to undertake appropriate maintenance and repair to such properties.

The Council will presume in favour of protecting listed buildings and their settings, especially from inappropriate development and will actively encourage the sensitive maintenance, restoration and re-use of all such properties.

Proposals affecting a listed building shall be expected to be of a quality commensurate with that of the original building and any proposal for the demolition of a listed building will normally only be considered when in association with the assessment of detailed redevelopment proposals and where it is demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt that every effort has been exerted by all concerned to find a practical way of keeping the building.

Supplementary Guidance Policy 3: Conservation Areas

South Ayrshire has a number of areas that, due to their architectural or historic merit, are considered worthy of preservation and enhancement for future generations continued enjoyment. These areas are afforded protection through designation as conservation areas by the Council. A total of 21 such areas are currently designated, 5 of which are deemed to be of outstanding status by the Scottish Government – these are listed, below. Additional influence on development is afforded in these areas through the use of Article 4 directions that enable the Council to guide development in respect of works that would not normally require planning permission. Conservation Areas Designated (as at October 2012):

Alloway Colmonell Maybole*Ayr I (Central)* Crosshill MonktonAyr II Dundonald SouthwoodBallantrae I Dunure* St. QuivoxBallantrae II Girvan Straiton* Barr Kirkmichael SymingtonBurns Monument* Kirkoswald Troon *Denotes Outstanding Status

Development proposals within or affecting conservation areas will require to comply with the following: -

All new development within, or affecting the setting of, a conservation area shall be required to preserve or enhance its character or appearance.

The Council will actively encourage and, where resources permit, implement upgrading and enhancement programmes for conservation areas.

To ensure a consistent high standard of development within conservation areas, proposals will be considered in terms of compliance with “General Criteria for New Development” (as contained in Supplementary Guidance Policy 1) and the following ”Design Principles for Development within a Conservation Area”.

Additional, detailed guidance is available in the Council’s guidelines for shopfronts, signage, sunshades and canopies in conservation areas.

Design Principles for Development within a Conservation AreaGeneral Applications for development within conservation areas will be expected to include

detailed plans, sections and elevations of the existing building(s) and any proposed alterations. Details of materials proposed for use, external finishing materials, landscaping, (where appropriate) and the relationship of the proposed development to the overall townscape will also be expected.

Redevelopment Where it has been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that a listed building or building within a conservation area cannot be retained, preference will be given to proposals which retain building frontages which are important to the townscape over demolition and redevelopment proposals.

The demolition of listed buildings, or buildings considered to be important within conservation areas will normally only be approved where acceptable re-development proposals are submitted and approved concurrently. Short term landscaping or

appropriate screening of such sites may also be required.Townscape Features In addition to the general guidance of design for new development in Panel One,

proposals for new development in conservation areas should also, where practical, incorporate local townscape characteristics and be in keeping with the surrounding street patter, from and incorporate design features, such as pedestrian or vehicle pends. Appropriate materials should be used, and streetscapes may be surfaced by whin setts stone or blockwork.

Building Materials Within conservation areas, building materials used will be expected to comprise natural stone, wet dash harling or lime washed smooth render. Windows and doors will be required to be proportioned sympathetically to adjacent properties, and roofs will be required to be finished in natural slate or acceptable slate substitute.

Views and Vistas Development proposals should have due regard to their wider impact in terms of their visibility from distant points and the preservation of important landmarks, views and vistas from and through the development site.

Alterations andExtensions

Proposed alterations or extensions to buildings should utilise similar materials as used in the original structure, and be sympathetic to the design features, character and proportions of the original property. The original building will normally be expected to remain the dominant feature when viewed from its main frontage(s). Important features (e.g. string courses) should not be removed or obscured - especially where the property forms an element of a terrace or coherent group of buildings.

Repairs Repairs to property within conservation areas should utilise the same materials as those which require repair wherever they remain available. Proposals to replace previous work which used non-traditional methods or materials, and restore original features will be favourably viewed.

Dormer Windows The design of dormer extensions should complement the existing property and neither change its character nor alter the original profile. They should be kept as small as possible, set away from gables, hips, and below the roof ridge. They should have a traditional appearance, normally with hipped or gabled roof. Windows should reflect the style and proportion of existing windows and be positioned so as to form a definite relationship with the main facade of the building. It is the preference of the Council that dormers should generally be restricted to rear or secondary frontages. Additional detailed guidance is given in the Council’s dormer window SPG.

Stone Cleaning Stone cleaning of listed buildings and all buildings within conservation areas requires the approval of the Council. The stone cleaning of listed buildings will be encouraged only where the proposed method is proven not to be detrimental to stone finish or detailing. The stone cleaning of individual properties within a terrace or listed group of premises will only be encouraged where the group is to be cleaned in one phase, and by the same method (approved by the Council).

Painting Buildings Generally, unpainted stone frontages should remain unpainted, unless it is proven that the property was painted originally and forms an element of a terrace or group of painted buildings.

The repainting of frontages should utilise traditional, muted colour schemes with strong colours used sparingly. Window and door mouldings or other features may be emphasised with different colour tones where appropriate. Window and door frames, mullions and transoms should normally be painted white.

Retail/Commercial Buildings

Original retail and commercial frontages and features are now rare. Those remaining will be protected from insensitive alteration. Proposals which seek to restore or replicate such features will be supported.

The design of the frontages of shops, offices, restaurants etc., should be based on a carefully considered composition of traditional elements at ground floor level, i.e. fascia, shop window, door stallrisers, pilasters and advertising signs. The proportions of any shop front and fascia should complement the balance of the complete frontage and it is insufficient to consider the design of the individual shop front in isolation from the frontage as a whole.

Supplementary Guidance Policy 4: Scheduled Monuments

South Ayrshire has a rich variety of archaeological resources from castles to buried flint scatterings and crop marks. Many new sites of interest may yet be discovered. All these sites form an important part of our heritage and can be valuable tourism and educational resources as well as contributing to general amenity. The Council recognises their importance and will seek to ensure that they are protected, interpreted and promoted or recorded as appropriate.

The Council will seek to protect scheduled monuments, (including their setting) and archaeological sites and encourage sympathetic proposals for their promotion for educational or recreational purposes.

Any application for development affecting a scheduled monument will be required to provide sufficient information to enable the evaluation of the importance of the site and enable full assessment of the impact of the proposals on that site.

The use of management agreements to mitigate the effects of potentially conflicting land uses upon standing structures, earthworks or buried deposits may be required as part of the development management process, where a proposal affects a scheduled monument.

The Council may seek guidance from an appropriate archaeological information service in considering applications for development within its area, including those within the Historic Medieval Burgh areas of Ayr, Ballantrae, Dundonald, Dunure, Girvan, Maybole, Newton-on-Ayr, Prestwick, Straiton, Symington and Tarbolton.

Supplementary Guidance Information Note: Designed Landscapes and Historic Gardens

There has been a long tradition in South Ayrshire of the development of country estates, usually comprising extensive agricultural land and large mansion houses with associated buildings. However, this tradition has been in decline since the First World War and a number of important country houses are falling into disrepair. Given the importance of these estates and their buildings, the Council wishes to ensure their survival and maintenance, and to ensure that the integrated elements of house, garden and landscape should be protected as a whole, particularly where they are listed in Historic Scotland’s “Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland”. Consequently, whilst the preferred use of the property will remain as a single dwelling unit, sympathetic proposals for alternative uses of the properties which preserve the integrity of the estate may be viewed favourably by the Council.