Environmental Impact Assessment - Gavieside Masterplan
- Client Name
- Persimmon Homes East Scotland
- Location
- West Lothian, Scotland
Challenge
The site comprises an area of 208 hectares of agricultural land to the west of Livingston.
Planning Permission in Principle (PPiP) is sought for a major mixed-use urban expansion of up to 2,500 new homes, ranging in size from 1 to 5 bedrooms and including 25% on-site affordable provision; a neighbourhood centre, which will include up to 2,500 sqm of floorspace; a 3FE primary school; 10 ha of employment land; open space and landscaping; and district heating infrastructure.
The development is to be delivered over four phases. Phase one will deliver approximately 850 homes, the first phase of the neighbourhood centre, local park and upgrades to the local road network and active travel routes, with Phases 2-4 delivering the balance of the homes as well as the neighbourhood centre and the A71 link road.
Solution
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required for this significant project. SLR is appointed to manage and coordinate the technical consultant team and impact assessment process, and produce an EIA Report in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017.
In addition, SLR is also appointed to undertake a series of ecological surveys to inform the evolving design of the development and ensure that effects on on-site habitats, protected species and off-site designated sites are avoided, minimised and mitigated appropriately. This includes, for example, advice on areas that should be kept free of artificial lighting.
As well as producing the Ecological Impact Assessment to support the EIA Report, SLR has also prepared a Habitats Regulations Assessment screening report in relation to The Firth of Forth Special Protection Area (SPA) and Westwater SPA.
Impact
The request for a scoping opinion has now been lodged with West Lothian Council. The purpose of this is to focus the EIA Report on the likely significant environmental effects of the proposed development, not all possible effects.
The planning application is due to be submitted later in 2024.
