15.11.7.         Preliminary Assessment of Designated Landscapes

  1. A preliminary assessment of the effects of the operation and maintenance of the Proposed Development on the landscape designations in the SLVIA Study Area is presented in Table 15.40   Open ▸ with reference to the ZTV analysis in Figure 15.9
Table 15.40:
Preliminary Assessment of Landscape Designations

Table 15.40: Preliminary Assessment of Landscape Designations

15.11.8.         Detailed assessment of Designated Landscapes

Northumberland Coast AONB

  1. An assessment of the magnitude of change and residual effects arising from the operation and maintenance of the Proposed Development on the defined special qualities of the Northumberland Coast AONB is set out in respect of each special quality that has potential to be affected in Table 15.41   Open ▸ . This assessment of special qualities is informed by the preceding assessments of representative viewpoints and visual receptors and CCAs within the Northumberland Coast AONB. In these sections, the effects on special qualities evident from representative viewpoints are assessed, as well as the residual effects on the perceived qualities of each CCA within the Northumberland Coast AONB. The following assessment of special qualities supplements those undertaken in the preceding viewpoint and coastal character assessments, directly addressing the defined special qualities in the citation for each special quality set out in the Northumberland Coast AONB Management Plan (Northumberland Coast AONB, 2020-2024).
  2. The effects of the Proposed Development on the North Northumberland Coast Heritage Coast are considered as integral to the assessment of the Northumberland Coast AONB set out this assessment of special qualities and for the relevant CCAs in Table 15.37   Open ▸ and Table 15.38   Open ▸ . There is potential for inter-related effects between SLVIA and cultural heritage, as recognised in Section 15.14, which are assessed in volume 3,chapter 16.
  3. The assessment of CCAs has highlighted that in general the landscape value of the coastal areas within the Northumberland Coast AONB is high and this is recognised by society through its designation as an AONB. The sensitivity of the Northumberland Coast AONB to changes arising from the Proposed Development is therefore assessed as high and the following assessments of each of the Northumberland Coast AONB’s special qualities are based on these qualities of the AONB having a high sensitivity to change. Occasionally the sensitivity of parts of the AONB may vary locally on account of some variations in susceptibility of different areas within the Northumberland Coast AONB to the specific nature of changes associated with the Proposed Development, for example, areas away from coast may be less susceptible to changes associated with offshore wind farm development. A worst-case assessment is however made with regards to the consideration of effects in Table 15.41   Open ▸ in respect of the AONBs special qualities being considered to be of high sensitivity to change.
Table 15.41:
Assessment of Northumberland Coast AONB Special Qualities

Table 15.41: Assessment of Northumberland Coast AONB Special Qualities

EFFECTS (NIGHT-TIME) OF THE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT LIGHTING ON VISUAL RECEPTORS/VIEWS and Perception of Coastal Character

15.11.9.         Assessment of Night-time Effects on Views

Introduction

  1. The Proposed Development will have impacts on visual receptors/views at night during the operation and maintenance phase (as indicated in Table 15.13   Open ▸ ).
  2. This section provides an assessment of the visual effects arising from the visible lighting requirements (aviation and marine navigational) of the Proposed Development.
  3. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidance requires that 'en-route obstacles' at or above 150 m above ground level are lit with visible lighting to assist their detection by aircraft. As such, there is potential that parts of the Proposed Development may be visible at night. A description of the proposed lighting is found within Chapter 3: Project Description. The effect of the Proposed Development at night would result primarily from visible medium intensity (2,000 candela) flashing red coloured aviation light fittings located on the top of each nacelle of the peripheral wind turbines.
  4. This visual assessment of wind turbine lighting is supported by ZTVs (Figure 15.15) and night-time photomontage visualisations from six viewpoints in Figure 15.21h-j, Figure 15.22g-i, Figure 15.25h-j, Figure 15.30g-i, Figure 15.35h-j and 15.38f-h.

Regulations and Guidance

  1. In the UK, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements for lighting wind turbines are implemented through CAA publication CAP 764: Policy and Guidelines on Wind Turbines (CAA, 2016), and CAP 393: Air Navigation Order 2016 (CAA, 2016).
  2. The proposed wind turbines, at a maximum of 355 m to blade tip, would require lighting under Article 223 of the Air Navigation Order (CAA, 2016). This requires that wind turbine generators in UK territorial waters of 60 m or more above sea level HAT), are ‘fitted with one medium intensity steady red light positioned as close as reasonably practicable to the top of the fixed structure’ and that ‘the periphery of the group need to be fitted with a light’. For the purpose of the assessment, medium intensity aviation lighting is assumed to be 2,000 candela fitted on the top of each nacelle, positioned on peripheral structures as show in Figure 15.1b
  3. For 2,000 candela medium intensity steady or fixed red lights, ICAO indicates a requirement for no lighting to be switched on until ‘Night’ has been reached, as measured at 50 cd/m2 or darker. CAA have confirmed that UK policy broadly aligns with the International standards, including insofar as the point at which lights must be switched on at ‘Night’ rather than ‘Twilight’.
  4. Article 223 of Air Navigation Order (CAA, 2016) also requires that ‘the angle of the plane of the beam of peak intensity emitted by the light must be elevated to between 3-4° degrees above the horizontal plane’, but that 20-45% of the peak intensity is to be visible at the horizontal plane and not more than 10% of the peak intensity is visible at 1.5 degrees or more below the horizontal plane. This focusses the 2,000cd lighting in the horizontal plane between 3-4° above horizontal and allows for a reduced intensity of the light at and below the horizontal plane.
  5. Article 223 of Air Navigation Order (CAA, 2016) also allows for 2,000 cd aviation lights to be dimmed to ‘not less than 10% of the minimum peak intensity’ if ‘visibility in all directions from every wind turbine generator in a group is more than 5km’. Visibility conditions are measured using a visibility sensor, to allow the aviation lights to dimmed automatically to respond to prevailing meteorological conditions. 2,000 cd lights will therefore only be experienced in visibility of <5 km; and their intensity would be dimmed to 200 cd in visibility of >5 km.
  6. GLVIA3 (Landscape Institute, 2013) recommends that ‘the visual effects assessment will need to include qualitative assessments of the effects of the predicted light levels on night-time visibility’ and that ‘reference should be made to appropriate guidance, such as that provided by the Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP, 2011)’.
  7. Guidance produced by the Institute of Lighting Professionals (ILP, 2011) is useful in setting out some key terminology that is used in this visual assessment of wind turbine lighting:
  • ‘Obtrusive Light - whether it keeps you awake through a bedroom window or impedes your view of the night sky, is a form of pollution, which may also be a nuisance in law and which can be substantially reduced without detriment to the lighting task;
  • Skyglow – the brightening of the night sky;
  • Glare – the uncomfortable brightness of a light source when viewed against a darker background; and
  • Light Intrusion – the spilling of light beyond the boundary of the property or area being lit, are all forms of obtrusive light which may cause nuisance to others’.

Assessment Methodology

  1. The assessment of night-time visual effects is based on the description of proposed wind turbine lighting set out in the MDS in Table 15.13   Open ▸ and the ICAO/CAA regulations and standards described above, utilising the methodology set out in Appendix 15.1 (section 1.6).
  2. The effect of the visible lights will be dependent on a range of factors, including the intensity of lights used, the clarity of atmospheric visibility and the degree of negative/ positive vertical angle of view from the light to the receptor. In compliance with EIA Regulations, the likely significant effects of a ‘worst-case’ scenario for wind turbine lighting are assessed and illustrated in this visual assessment.
  3. A worst-case approach is applied to the assessment that considers the potential effects of medium-intensity 2,000 cd lights in clear visibility. It should be noted however, that medium intensity lights are only likely to be operated at their maximum 2,000 cd during periods of poor visibility. A further assessment of the likely residual effects is therefore made factoring in embedded mitigation, i.e., that the 2,000cd aviation lights will be dimmed to 10% of their value (200 cd) if meteorological conditions permit (when visibility is greater than 5 km).
  4. It should be noted that the Proposed Development wind turbines would also include infra-red lighting on the hubs, which would not be visible to the human eye. Details of the lighting would be agreed with the MoD. The focus of the night-time visual assessment in this assessment is on the visible lighting requirements of the Proposed Development.
  5. The study area for the visual assessment of wind turbine lighting is shown in Figure 15.14 and is coincident with the 60 km SLVIA Study Area, however is particularly focused on the closest areas of the coastline, within approximately 40 km.
  6. ICAO indicates a requirement for no lighting to be switched on until ‘Night’ has been reached, as measured at 50 cd/m2 or darker. It does not require 2,000 candela medium intensity to be on during ‘twilight’, when seascape and landscape character may be discerned. The aviation and marine navigational lights may be seen for a short time during the twilight period when some recognition of landscape features/ profiles/ shapes and patterns may be possible. It is considered however, that level of recognition does not amount to an ability to appreciate in any detail landscape character differences and subtleties, nor does it provide sufficient natural light conditions to undertake a landscape character assessment.
  7. The assessment of the lighting of the Proposed Development is primarily intended to determine the likely significant effects on the visual resource i.e., it is an assessment of the visual effects of aviation lighting on views experienced by people at night. The matter of visible aviation and marine navigation lighting assessment is primarily a visual matter and the assessment presented focusses on that premise.
  8. The Scottish Government’s Aviation Lighting Working Group is working on guidance to streamline the process for night-time lighting assessments. While this guidance has yet to be published, there is some consensus that the perception of landform/skylines at night is a relevant consideration (with perception being a component of visual effects), however there is also widespread agreement that it is not possible to undertake landscape/coastal character assessment after the end of civil twilight, when it is technically 'dark' and wind turbine aviation lighting is switched on.
  9. To date the only formal recognition of this approach to assessment is the Scottish Ministers’ Decision for the Crystal Rig IV PLI. The Reporters concluded in their report at paragraph 4.141: “It can be seen from the summaries of evidence above that the parties differ as to whether the proposed aviation lighting would be a visual impact alone. We consider that without being able to see and fully appreciate the features of the landscape and the composition of views it is not possible to carry out a meaningful landscape character assessment. On this matter, we find that the proposed lighting is indeed a visual concern, as the applicant asserts.”
  10. In the absence of guidance being available, it is considered reasonable to adopt the findings of Scottish Ministers, following a detailed Public Inquiry as this provides support for focusing on the assessment of effects of wind turbine lighting as a visual matter.
  11. Assessment of proposed wind turbine lighting on coastal character at night is therefore focused on particular areas where the landform of the foreshore, coastal landforms and inshore islands etc may be perceived at night with lights in the background on the sea skyline i.e. where a perceived character effect may occur as a component of visual effects; and for particular designations where dark skies are a specific ‘special quality’ defined in their citation.

Visual representations

  1. A ZTV map has been produced to show the areas from which the medium-intensity aviation lights may be seen (Figure 15.15). This ZTV can be used to identify where the aviation lights may theoretically be visible and how many lights may be theoretically visible from different locations. The ZTV illustrates the ‘bare ground’ situation and does not take into account the screening effects of vegetation, buildings, or other local features that may prevent or reduce visibility.  It also does not indicate the decrease in visibility of the lights that occurs with increased distance. The nature of what is visible from 5 km away would differ markedly from what is visible from 15 km or 30 km away, although both are indicated on the Nacelle Light ZTV as having the same level of visibility in terms of number of aviation lights visible.
  2. Night-time baseline view panoramas and photomontage visualisations showing medium-intensity nacelle mounted aviation lighting are presented from six viewpoints:
  • Viewpoint 1 Johnshaven (NCN1) (Figure 15.21h-j);
  • Viewpoint 2 Montrose (Figure 15.22g-i);
  • Viewpoint 5 Fife Ness (Figure 15.25h-j);
  • Viewpoint 10 Dunbar (Figure 15.30g-i);
  • Viewpoint 15 St Abb’s Head (Figure 15.35h-j); and
  • Viewpoint 18 Cocklawburn Beach (Figure 15.38f-h).
  1. The night-time photography has therefore been captured in low light conditions, after the end of civil twilight, when ‘night’ has been reached and when other artificial lighting, such as streetlights, car headlamps and lights on buildings are on, to show how the aviation lighting would look compared to the existing baseline at such times, being optimum and worst case for the purposes of the assessment. 
  2. Although aviation lighting manufacturers must meet the minimum requirements, their products may vary in relation to recommended limits set out in ICAO standards, which makes it difficult producing accurate visualisations as the lighting characteristics of different light fittings, of the same intensity, may vary outside the minimum requirements stipulated by ICAO. The night-time photomontages shown in these figures have been produced to show 2,000 cd lighting, to inform the assessment of worst-case effects assessed and are likely to over-represent the visibility of aviation warning lighting experienced in reality, as they are likely to operate at reduced intensity (200 cd) in clear visibility conditions.

Aviation Lighting Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV)

  1. Visual effects of the aviation lighting will only occur where their introduction influences the visual amenity and views experienced by people in the area. The geographic areas where these visual effects may occur is defined by the ZTV shown in Figure 15.15 The nacelle aviation light ZTV can be used to identify where the aviation lights may theoretically be visible and how many lights may be visible from different locations. The ZTV is based on the nacelle mounted position of the aviation lights, at 200 m hub height, on each of the Proposed Development wind turbines. The base mapping has been darkened to give an indication of those areas that will not be affected by visibility of the aviation lighting.
  2. The ZTV has been calculated using digital terrain data, which does not account for the screening effects of vegetation or built form. It also does not indicate the decrease in visibility of wind turbine aviation lights that occurs with increased distance from the array area or atmospheric visibility due to the weather conditions. The aviation lighting ZTV therefore shows a worst-case and is likely to overstate the actual visibility of the Proposed Development, which would be further screened by vegetation or built form and visibility of the lights reduced by prevailing atmospheric conditions.
  3. The ZTV (Figure 15.15) shows that the wind turbine aviation lights will not be visible from large geographic areas shown in ‘dark grey’ in the mapping with no ZTV colouring, where the terrain prevents views of the wind turbine aviation lights. Notably, these areas where the wind turbine aviation lights will not be visible include:
  • The inner seascape of the Firth of Forth, broadly west of Eyebroughy on the East Lothian coastline and Ruddons Point on the East Neuk of Fife coastline;
  • The inner seascape of the Firth of Tay broadly to the west of the Tay Road Bridge;
  • The sheltered seascape of Holy Island Sands and Fenham Flats to the west of Lindisfarne; and
  • The majority of the inland areas of Aberdeenshire, Angus, Scottish Borders, and Northumberland.
  1. The ZTV (Figure 15.15) shows that the main areas of higher theoretical visibility of the wind turbine aviation lights will be from the open seas within the SLVIA Study Area, the offshore and inshore waters and the east facing coastlines, including:
  • The coastline and coastal waters between Berwick-Upon-Tweed and Dunbar;
  • The coastline and coastal waters around parts of the East Neuk of Fife, from Pittenweem in the south to Boarhills in the north;
  • The Angus coastline and inner coastal waters from Barry Sands in the south to Montrose in the north; and
  • A relatively short section of the Aberdeenshire coastline and coastal waters north of Montrose to the south of Inverbervie.
  1. The assessment of effects of aviation lighting on users of the Northumberland Coast AONB is informed by the nacelle light ZTV (Figure 15.15) and an understanding of the nature of the likely effects of the proposed lighting, gained from observing windfarm aviation lighting at operational windfarms. The ZTV and wirelines of the Proposed Development have been used to review the visibility of lighting from viewing locations within the SLVIA study area and consider the potential effects.
  2. The assessment of night-time visual effects is undertaken with reference to six representative night-time viewpoints, with one viewpoint in each local authority area of the SLVIA study area. There are no specific dark sky parks with viewing locations promoted for viewing the night skies. Night-time viewpoints have been considered in the visual assessment due to their potential sensitivity as locations that people may visit at night, either incidentally, such as within a settlement, or with the express intention of viewing the night sky, such as from St Abb’s Head.

Viewpoint 1 Johnshaven (NCN1)

Baseline and sensitivity to change
  1. This existing night-time view from Viewpoint 1 Johnshaven is shown in Figure 15.21i, which includes a baseline photomontage representation the night-time lighting of Seagreen 1 offshore wind farm. The viewpoint lies on Fore Street, just behind the shoreline with residential development within Johnshaven behind. The viewpoint is located within the Cover Bay to Milton Ness coastline character area (SA 3).
  2. Aviation lighting on the Seagreen 1 offshore wind farm will, under certain conditions, be visible in night-time views at a minimum distance of 28.1 km from the viewpoint, within the distant seascape backdrop to the rocky foreshore that characterises the foreground of the view. Further, albeit less noticeable, point features of light, include distant cardinal marks and oil platforms rising just over the horizon. Lights from shipping traffic and boats occasionally visible as transient moving features at sea. Inland, lighting from dwellings facing the coast to the north and south of this location is visible at close proximity along New Road and Dock Street. High level street column lighting is also visible along the settlement edge, which tends to be slightly brighter than light from dwellings, although more widely spaced. Further south, lighting within Montrose and Rossie are visible beyond the largely dark sweep of Montrose Bay, seen at the foot of Montreathmoor. The low dark outline of the Montreathmoor hills, Red Head, Long Craig, and the Angus coastline between Land Craig to Deil’s Heid jut out into the seascape and are largely unlit aside from a small number of visible light sources, notably Scurdie Ness lighthouse.
  3. The sensitivity of the viewpoint at night is considered to be medium-low, reflecting a low value and the receptors experiencing the view having medium susceptibility to change. There is no formal recognition of this view having value at night-time (for example, as a dark skies discovery site) and it is not specifically promoted to encourage visitors with the express intention of viewing the night sky. The visual context of the Cove Bay to Milton Ness coastline (SA 3) or South-East Aberdeenshire Coast SLA do not identify any special night-time or dark sky qualities. With the exception of the rocky foreshore and low dark outline of the coast to the south, the details of the coast that add value during the day are not readily discernible at night. Although this is an accessible location from which to look out to sea at night, the susceptibility of people experiencing the night-time view is influenced by existing baseline lighting of housing and streets within Johnshaven and the existing Seagreen 1 offshore wind turbine lighting out to sea, such that the susceptibility of receptors is lower than areas where the baseline contains no or limited existing lighting. The influence of wind turbine lighting offshore in this portion of the view and at close proximity within the settlement of Johnshaven, notably reduces the perception of this viewpoint being a dark location and is considered to moderate the susceptibility to change to the appearance of further distant wind turbine lighting out to sea.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage in Figure 15.21j.
  2. Aviation lighting at the nacelle height of the wind turbines of the Proposed Development is predicted to be visible in the view at night only in excellent visibility conditions, with the closest potential wind turbine aviation light located 51.4 km from this viewpoint. Marine navigational lights at platform level will not be visible from the viewpoint due to their relatively low position and the effect of earth curvature forming an intervening horizon that prevents them from being visible at such long distance offshore.
  3. The aviation lighting of the Proposed Development wind turbines will introduce further point sources of red light into the distance, at slightly varying heights, that will be seen low to the horizon; limiting the intrusion into views of stars in the night-sky that may be seen above. The lateral spread of the Proposed Development wind turbine aviation lights will appear subsumed behind and overlapping much of Seagreen 1 to the north, therefore only adding up to a further 12° to the HFoV - a narrow portion of the view, in which much of the dark sea skyline will be retained and the coastline views unaffected. Where the Proposed Development and Seagreen 1 overlap, the combined lighting array may appear slightly denser. The angle of view to the Proposed Development may result in some grouping of aviation lighting to the north and south of the array. The visible aviation lights would be small scale and very distant from this location and would integrate with the context of other distant wind turbine aviation lighting seen offshore. Overall, this is not a dark location and as such the introduction of aviation lighting would be appreciated in the context of other light sources, at a range of distances.
  4. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the night-time view resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as low, and when combined with the medium-low sensitivity of receptors at this viewpoint, results in a not significant (minor), indirect, long-term, and reversible visual effect. The aviation lights may influence the continuity between the dark sea below and the dark skies above, however they are low to the horizon and do not extend into, nor impede, the view of sky at night. The aviation lights are not expected to result in obtrusive light that impedes the wider expanse of night sky, which can be experienced readily above the viewer, nor result in brightening of the night sky (skyglow) or glare on to the sea surface and would therefore not be of detriment to the overall experience of the night skies in this view.
  5. The operation of aviation lighting at the lower intensity of 200 cd when visibility from every wind turbine is >5km will provide further mitigation and reduction in the perceived intensity of the visible lighting.

Viewpoint 2 Montrose

Baseline and sensitivity to change
  1. The existing night-time view from Viewpoint 2: Montrose is shown on Figure 15.22h, which includes a baseline photomontage representation of the night-time lighting of Seagreen 1 offshore wind farm. The viewpoint is located just behind the shoreline of Montrose Bay (SA4) within the Beaches, Dunes and Links (LCT 388). The view looks south-east over the open sea from parking at the Montrose Beach facilities on Traill Drive.
  2. Aviation lighting on the Seagreen 1 offshore wind farms will, under certain conditions, be visible in night-time views, seen at a minimum distance of 31.8 km. Lights on shipping traffic and boats are transient moving features seen at sea. Low-level street lighting around the Montrose Beach facilities is visible at close range providing a lighting influence in the nearby baseline environment. The settlement of Montrose sits slightly inland of the coast and lights from the settlement are screened by dunes and separated from this location by the links course to the west. In more distant views, Scurdie Ness lighthouse is a prominent, isolated lit feature visible above the dark mass of the Scurdie Ness headland and seascape to the south-east. In the far distance to the north, clusters of light within the scattered settlement of St. Cyrus and Johnshaven appear along the broad arc of the coastline.
  3. The sensitivity of the viewpoint at night is considered to be medium-low, reflecting a low value and the receptors experiencing the view having medium susceptibility to change. There is no formal recognition of this view having value at night-time and it is not specifically promoted to encourage visitors with the express intention of viewing the night sky. The visual context of Montrose Bay (SA4) or the Beaches, Dunes and Links (LCT 388) do not identify any special night-time or dark sky qualities. With the exception of Scurdie Ness and lighthouse, the details of the coastline’s character that add value during the day are not readily discernible at night. Although this is an accessible location from which to look out to sea at night, the susceptibility of people experiencing the night-time view is influenced by existing baseline street lighting, settlements along the coastline, vessels and the existing Seagreen 1 offshore wind turbine lighting out to sea, such that the susceptibility of receptors is lower than areas where the baseline contains no or limited existing lighting. Taking into consideration a baseline that will include wind turbine aviation lighting and the localised influence of lighting in close proximity to this viewpoint, and other distant onshore sources of light, receptors at this location would not be at a dark location and are considered to have reduced susceptibility to the type of change proposed.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage in Figure 15.22i.
  2. Aviation lighting at the nacelle height of the wind turbines of the Proposed Development is predicted to be visible in the view at night only in excellent visibility conditions, with the closest wind turbine aviation light located 48.9 km from this viewpoint. Marine navigational lights at platform level will not be visible from the viewpoint due to their relatively low position and the effect of earth curvature forming an intervening horizon that prevents them from being visible at such long distance offshore.
  3. The magnitude of change is assessed as low. The visible aviation lighting would be seen as distant point sources of red light, at slightly varying heights but generally seen low to the horizon, which would limit intrusion into the views of stars in the night-sky overhead. The lateral spread of the Proposed Development wind turbine aviation lights will partially overlap with Seagreen 1 to the north, however the majority of aviation lights are visible to the south of Seagreen 1, adding up to a further 20° to the HFoV and extending lights towards Scurdie Ness. The wind turbine aviation lights would appear relatively evenly spaced across much of the northern and central parts of the Proposed Development array area, with a more notable cluster at its southern extent which would be seen in the context of Scurdie Ness headland and lighthouse. The visible aviation lights would be small scale and very distant from this location and would integrate with the context of other distant wind turbine aviation lighting seen offshore.
  4. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the night-time view resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as low, and when combined with the medium-low sensitivity of receptors at this viewpoint, results in a not significant (minor), indirect, long-term, and reversible visual effect. The aviation lights may influence the continuity between the dark sea below and the dark skies above, however they are low to the horizon and do not extend into, nor impede, the view of sky at night. The aviation lights are not expected to result in obtrusive light that impedes the wider expanse of night sky, which can be experienced readily above the viewer, nor result in brightening of the night sky (skyglow) or glare on to the sea surface and would therefore not be of detriment to the overall experience of the night skies in this view.
  5. The operation of aviation lighting at the lower intensity of 200 cd when visibility from every wind turbine is >5 km will provide further mitigation and reduction in the perceived intensity of the visible lighting.

Viewpoint 5 Fife Ness

Baseline and sensitivity to change
  1. The existing night-time view from Viewpoint 5: Fife Ness is shown on Figure 15.25i, which includes a baseline photomontage representation the lighting of Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm. The viewpoint is located on the easternmost tip of the East Neuk of Fife coast, behind the shoreline of the rocky, settled coastline (SA 12) and adjoining Coastal Terraces (LCT 193).
  2. Aviation lighting on the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm may be visible in night-time views seen at a minimum distance of 15.6 km and aviation lighting on the Seagreen 1 offshore wind farm may be visible, under certain conditions, further offshore 48.6 km to the north. Lights on shipping traffic and boats are occasional, transient moving features seen at sea. Onshore, there are a small number of light sources seen at close proximity from the cluster of caravans and properties to the south, and ‘Fifeness Cottage’ to the north. In more distant views, light sources are limited to scattered points along the long sweep of the Angus and Aberdeenshire coast seen to the north, including from settlement and communications masts. The light of the Isle of May lighthouse is visible to the south.
  3. The sensitivity of the viewpoint at night is considered to be medium, reflecting a medium value and the receptors experiencing the view having medium susceptibility to change. There is no formal recognition of this view having value at night-time, nor does the visual context of the rocky, settled coastline (SA 12), Coastal Terraces (LCT 193), or St. Andrews to Fife Ness SLA identify any defined night-time or dark sky qualities. The viewpoint at Fife Ness is not specifically promoted to encourage visitors with the express intention of viewing the night sky, however the dark sky qualities may be more readily appreciated at this viewpoint in its more remote position at the eastern extremity of the East Neuk than from the villages around the Fife coast that are lit at night. Some of the details of the coastline character that add value during the day are not readily discernible at night, however the sea skyline beyond the rocky foreshore, profile of the Isle of May and low dark outline of the landform of the coasts to the north and south may be perceived at night.
  4. Given the small number of local light sources onshore seen in close proximity this is considered to be a relatively dark location in the context of the wider settled coast.  However, wind turbine aviation lighting at Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm at mid-range (15.6 km) will be an established part of the baseline in the portion of the view towards the Proposed Development, which is considered to moderate the receptor’s susceptibility to the type of change proposed.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage in Figure 15.25j.
  2. Aviation lighting at the nacelle height would be visible in the view at night only in excellent visibility conditions, with the closest wind turbine aviation light located 43.3 km from this viewpoint. Marine navigational lights at platform level will not be visible from the viewpoint due to their relatively low position and the effect of earth curvature forming an intervening horizon that prevents them from being visible at such long distance offshore.
  3. The magnitude of change is assessed as low. The aviation lighting of the Proposed Development wind turbines will introduce distant point sources of red, seen at slightly varying heights low to the horizon; limiting the intrusion into views of stars in the night-sky that might be seen overhead. The lateral spread of the Proposed Development wind turbine aviation lights will appear subsumed behind and overlapping much of Seagreen 1, therefore only adding up to a further 4° to the HFoV to the north of Neart na Gaoithe - a narrow portion of the view, in which much of the dark sea skyline will be retained and the coastline views unaffected. Where the Proposed Development and Neart na Gaoithe overlap, the combined lighting array may appear slightly denser. The visible aviation lights would be small scale and very distant from this location and would integrate with the context of other distant wind turbine aviation lighting seen offshore.
  4. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the night-time view resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as low, and when combined with the medium sensitivity of receptors at this viewpoint, results in a not significant (minor), indirect, long-term, and reversible visual effect. The aviation lights may influence the continuity between the dark sea below and the dark skies above, however they are low to the horizon and do not extend into, nor impede, the view of sky at night. The aviation lights are not expected to result in obtrusive light that impedes the wider expanse of night sky, which can be experienced readily above the viewer, nor result in brightening of the night sky (skyglow) or glare on to the sea surface and would therefore not be of detriment to the overall experience of the night skies in this view.
  5. The operation of aviation lighting at the lower intensity of 200 cd when visibility from every wind turbine is >5 km will provide further mitigation and reduction in the perceived intensity of the visible lighting.

Viewpoint 10 Dunbar

Baseline and sensitivity to change
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage in Figure 15.30h, which includes a baseline photomontage representation the lighting of Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm. The viewpoint is located within a developed section of the Eyebroughy to Torness Point coastline (SA 17) and adjoining Coastal Terraces (LCT 278), and within the Belhaven Bay SLA. The viewpoint is on the John Muir Way, on the clifftop opposite Wallace’s Head and near the war memorial.
  2. Aviation lighting on the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm will, under certain conditions, be visible in night-time views within the same portion of the seascape as the Proposed Development, seen at a minimum distance of 28.1 km. Lights from shipping traffic and boats are transient moving features seen at sea. Robert Stevenson’s lighthouse on the Isle of May is visible as a single, distant point of light in views to the north. Regarding the influence of artificial lighting seen in the round, inland sources seen at close proximity include the extensively glazed Dunbar Leisure Pool, hotels and residential properties along the clifftop, and some low-level street lighting.
  3. The sensitivity of the viewpoint at night is considered to be medium, reflecting a medium value and the receptors experiencing the view having a medium susceptibility to change. The viewpoint is located within a settled, developed section of coast within which lighting is a feature of night-time views, including street lighting in Dunbar, and some lighting from ships at sea. The viewpoint is located within the Belhaven Bay SLA, shown of Figure 15.4 Under ‘Special Qualities and Features’, the citation notes: ‘Lack of artificial lighting as well as accessibility makes the Bay a good place to observe the night sky, including on occasion the Aurora Borealis, as there is little lighting directly to the north, with the lights of Fife being largely obscured by landform’. Under ‘Guidelines for Development’, the SLA citation states: ‘Any Proposed Development must not harm the night-time darkness of this area of the coast’. In respect of the SLA, this viewpoint is within the settlement and, therefore, the qualities of a lack of artificial lighting and night-time darkness are not appreciated in the same way from this viewpoint as they are in parts of this SLA to the west of Winterfield Mains, within the John Muir Country Park, and within the Tyne Estuary to St. Balred’s Cradle.
  4. While the night-time value of views from the SLA are recognised and protected by planning policy, these qualities and special features are not fully appreciated from this location. Some of the details of the coastline that add value during the day are not readily discernible at night, however the sea skyline beyond the distinctive rocky foreshore, small islands and profile of Dunbar Castle may be perceived at night.  Taking into consideration a baseline that will include wind turbine aviation lighting from offshore wind farms, the localised influence of lighting in close proximity to this viewpoint, receptors would not be at a dark location, which moderates their susceptibility to the type of change proposed.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage in Figure 15.30i.
  2. Aviation lighting at the nacelle height of the wind turbines of the Proposed Development is predicted to be visible in the view at night only in excellent visibility conditions, with the closest wind turbine aviation light located 50.8 km from this viewpoint. Marine navigational lights at platform level will not be visible from the viewpoint due to their relatively low position and the effect of earth curvature forming an intervening horizon that prevents them from being visible at such long distance offshore.
  3. The magnitude of change is assessed as medium-low. The visible aviation lighting would be seen as distant point sources of red light, at slightly varying heights but generally seen low to the horizon, which would limit intrusion into views of stars in the night-sky overhead. The lateral spread of the Proposed Development wind turbine aviation lights will partially overlap with Neart na Gaoithe to the north, however the majority of aviation lights are visible to the south of Neart na Gaoithe, adding up to a further 30° to the HFoV and extending lights across the skyline backdrop to the distinctive rocky foreshore and small islands near Dunbar Harbour. The wind turbine aviation lights would be fairly unevenly spaced across the view, seen as individual and small groupings of lights. The visible aviation lights would be small scale and very distant from this location and would integrate with the context of other distant wind turbine aviation lighting seen offshore.
  4. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the night-time view resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as medium-low, and when combined with the medium sensitivity of receptors at this viewpoint, results in a not significant (moderate/minor), indirect, long-term, and reversible visual effect. The aviation lights may influence the continuity between the dark sea below and the dark skies above, however they are low to the horizon and do not extend into, nor impede, the view of sky at night. The aviation lights are not expected to result in obtrusive light that impedes the wider expanse of night sky, which can be experienced readily above the viewer, nor result in brightening of the night sky (skyglow) or glare on to the sea surface and would therefore not be of detriment to the overall experience of the night skies in this view.
  5. The operation of aviation lighting at the lower intensity of 200 cd when visibility from every wind turbine is >5km will provide further mitigation and reduction in the perceived intensity of the visible lighting.

Viewpoint 15 St Abb’s Head

Baseline and sensitivity to change
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage Figure 15.35i.
  2. The viewpoint lies is set back from the lighthouse and coastline between St Abbs head and Eyemouth (SA 19), at the transition to Torness Point to St Abbs Head (SA 18), within Coastal Moorland (LCT 112). The viewpoint lies within the Berwickshire Coast SLA.
  3. Aviation lighting on the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm will, under certain conditions, be visible in night-time views seen at a minimum distance of 33.2 km from the viewpoint. Occasional lights on shipping traffic and boats seen as transient moving features at sea. Onshore, there would be some localised, close-proximity views of artificial light from the ‘Mast Lighthouse Keepers Cottage’. The St Abbs Head lighthouse itself is set part-way down the steep cliffs to the east, and thus is not visible from this location due to the screening effect of intervening landform. In more distant views to the south, street lighting and lights from residential properties within Eyemouth are visible across the shoreline and low hills to the south of Coldingham Bay. In distant views to the north, Torness Power Station is a noticeable source of lighting, with some less bright lighting scattered along the East Lothian coastline farther north.
  4. The sensitivity of the viewpoint at night is considered to be medium-high, reflecting a medium value and the receptors experiencing the view having medium-high susceptibility to change. There is generally relatively little lighting on land and at sea, apart from ships and the distant presence of the Neart na Gaoithe offshore windfarm aviation lights. The viewpoint at St Abbs Head is not specifically promoted to encourage visitors with the express intention of viewing the night sky, however the dark sky qualities may be more readily appreciated at this viewpoint in its more remote position than from the villages around the Berwickshire coast where lighting is a feature of views, including street lighting in Eyemouth, Coldingham and St Abbs and along the A1107. Given the small number of local light sources onshore seen in close proximity this is considered to be a relatively dark location in the context of the wider settled coast. However, wind turbine aviation lighting will be an established, although distant, part of the baseline in the portion of the view towards the Proposed Development, which is considered to moderate the receptor’s susceptibility to the type of change proposed.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage in Figure 15.35j.
  2. Aviation lighting at the nacelle height of the wind turbines of the Proposed Development is predicted to be visible in the view at night only in excellent visibility conditions, with the closest wind turbine aviation light located 40.8 km from this viewpoint. Due to the elevation of the viewpoint, marine navigational lights at platform level may also be visible in excellent visibility, despite their relatively low position at platform level.
  3.  The magnitude of change is assessed as medium. The visible aviation lighting would be seen as distant point sources of red light, at slightly varying heights, seen close to the horizon which would limit intrusion into views of stars in the night sky overhead. The extent of wind turbine aviation lights will be visually separate from Neart na Gaoithe with a clear gap between them on the sea skyline, forming a distinct new array of lights to the south of Neart na Gaoithe. The lateral spread of the aviation lights may occupy up to approximately 44° of the HFoV, representing an increase in the lighting of the undeveloped sea skyline, while avoiding change to the seascape to the north of Neart na Gaoithe where the open sea skyline will be retained and the coastline views unaffected. In particular, the aviation lights being located out to sea, contrasting with the dark seascape yet avoiding effects on the perception of the rugged and dramatic landforms of the coastline extending north. 
  4. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the night-time view resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as medium, and when combined with the medium-high sensitivity of receptors at this viewpoint, results in a significant (moderate), indirect, long-term, and reversible visual effect. Moderate effects are assessed as significant on receptors experiencing this view at night as they fall within the ‘upper’ grey area of the matrix (indicated in mid-grey in Table 15.17   Open ▸ ) and are considered significant primarily due the combination of the medium magnitude of change assessed (in comparison to the medium-low magnitude at other viewpoints with not significant (moderate) effects) and the sensitivity of this more remote and less developed section of coastline, its elevation affording longer range views down over the Proposed Development, together with its closer proximity and wider HFoV without a strong influence of Neart na Gaoithe in the baseline. The aviation lights may influence the continuity between the dark sea below and the dark skies above, however they are low to the horizon and do not extend into, nor impede, the view of sky at night. The aviation lights are not expected to result in obtrusive light that impedes the wider expanse of night sky, which can be experienced readily above the viewer, nor result in brightening of the night sky (skyglow) or glare on to the sea surface and would therefore not be of detriment to the overall experience of the night skies in this view.
  5. The operation of aviation lighting at the lower intensity of 200 cd when visibility from every wind turbine is >5km will provide further mitigation and reduction in the perceived intensity of the visible lighting.

Viewpoint 18 Cocklawburn Beach

Baseline and sensitivity to change
  1. The existing night-time view from Viewpoint 18: Cocklawburn Beach is shown on Figure 15.38g. The viewpoint lies on the regional coast character Berwick Upon Tweed to Holy Island (SA 21), within Holy Island Coast (LCT 5a) and adjoining the Rural Northumberland and Coastal Waters (MCA 23). The viewpoint is located within the Northumberland AONB and North Northumberland Heritage Coast.
  2. The night-time view across the seascape is essentially unlit with dark skies above, interrupted only by occasional lights on shipping traffic and boats seen as transient moving features at sea. Inland, this is a relatively dark section of the coastline, floodlighting at the Scremerston level crossing and less bright residential lights at ‘Sea House’ are visible to the north, and transient lighting of trains passing on the ECML will be visible at night. Farther north, Berwick Lighthouse is visible as a single distant light, seen close to the coast beyond the northern sweep of Cocklawburn Beach. However, in the main, this is a relatively dark location on the Northumberland coast. with relatively few other lights along the coast, and it is characterised by dark skies.
  3. The sensitivity of the viewpoint at night is considered to be medium-high, reflecting a high value, and the receptors experiencing the view having medium-high susceptibility to change. Although there is no formal recognition of this view having value at night-time and it is not specifically promoted to encourage visitors with the express intention of viewing the night sky, the Northumberland Coast AONB is recognised for its dark sky qualities, which is reflected in the character description for this section of coastline. The AONB Management Plan (2020-24) defines one of the special qualities of the AONB as ‘Dark Skies’, in which it states: ‘Ever-increasing levels of outdoor lighting are constantly diminishing our view of the spectacular sky visible on a clear night, and most people have to travel far from their homes to experience a good view of the night sky. Areas of the Northumberland Coast AONB still retain such dark skies, and these are a special quality of the area, valued by residents and visitors alike’.
  4. The character description for Berwick upon Tweed to Holy Island (SA 21) also notes: ‘There is little lighting on land and none at sea, apart from ships. There would be some lighting from Berwick-upon-Tweed and Holy Island on the coast’ and the description for MCA 23 notes: ‘The MCA forms part of a wider maritime setting to the Northumberland Coast AONB and the North Northumberland Heritage Coast defined to conserve the best stretches of undeveloped coast, characterised by ‘dark skies’ and high levels of tranquillity’.
  5. This is an accessible location from which residents and visitors would be able to appreciate the night-time qualities of the coast and seascape. The general lack of visible light sources in the part of the view towards the Proposed Development, in which there are no existing offshore wind farm lights visible, and limited influence of artificial lights onshore, are considered to increase the susceptibility to change to the appearance of distant lights out to sea.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The predicted view of the aviation lights at 2,000 cd is shown on the photomontage in Figure 15.38h.
  2. Aviation lighting at the nacelle height of the wind turbines of the Proposed Development is predicted to be visible in the view at night only in excellent visibility conditions, with the closest wind turbine aviation light located 51.9 km from this viewpoint. Marine navigational lights at platform level will not be visible from the viewpoint due to their relatively low position and the effect of earth curvature forming an intervening horizon that prevents them from being visible at such long distance offshore.
  3. The magnitude of change is assessed as low. Within the view, the wind turbine aviation lights would appear spaced out at intervals around the perimeter of the array and may occupy up to 36 degrees of the HFoV, however the visible aviation lighting may be seen as very distant point sources of red light, very low to, or on, the horizon. This would limit the intrusion of wind turbine aviation lights into the views of the night-sky overhead. The wind turbine aviation lights would be small scale and very distant from this location, with the very long range impeding the ability of receptors to perceive the intensity of lights out to sea against the relatively dark background.
  4. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the night-time view resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as low, and when combined with the medium-high sensitivity of receptors at this viewpoint, results in a not significant (moderate/minor), indirect, long term and reversible visual effect. The aviation lights may influence the continuity between the dark sea below and the dark skies above, however they are low to the horizon and do not extend into, nor impede, the view of sky at night. The aviation lights are not expected to result in obtrusive light that impedes the wider expanse of night sky, which can be experienced readily above the viewer, nor result in brightening of the night sky (skyglow) or glare on to the sea surface and would therefore not be of detriment to the overall experience of the night skies in this view.

15.11.10.     Assessment of Night-time Effects on Perception of Coastal Character

  1. An assessment of the likely visual effects that would arise from visibility of the proposed aviation and marine navigation lighting has been undertaken in section 15.11.9, which has informed the following assessment of the effects of the proposed lighting on coastal character.
  2. The viewpoint assessment in Section 15.11.9 found that the proposed wind turbine aviation lighting results in not significant (minor) effects on visual receptors at night from the Angus and Fife coastline, due to the aviation lights mainly appearing behind, further offshore and with less intensity than the existing Seagreen 1 or Neart na Gaoithe aviation lights; increasing to not significant (moderate/minor) from parts of the East Lothian coast, where they would increase the spread of lights on the horizon, but will be very distant and partially integrate with the Neart na Gaoithe aviation lighting seen offshore; with significant (moderate) effects concentrated to the coastline at St Abbs Head.
  3. An assessment of effects from visible aviation lighting on coastal character rests to a large extent on a perceptual appreciation of the lighting effects that someone might experience in different levels of darkness at night in the context of the features that define coastal character (such as the skyline and coastal landforms).
  4. The SLVIA study area includes several rural coastal areas that are both intrinsically darker at night (Figure 15.14), afford opportunity to perceive coastal character at night and see the proposed aviation lighting (Figure 15.15). In particular, these areas afford potential to experience the sea skyline and its relationship with foreground landforms, including distinctive rocky foreshores, cliffs and inshore islands, contributing to character, where effects on perceived character may occur as a component of visual effects. These areas consist of parts of the coastlines within the following CCAs (which are assessed further below):
  • SA6 Lunan Bay – particularly the dark landform outline of the low headland of Lang Craig to south and the cliffs of Rickle Craig to the north;
  • SA12 St Andrews to Fife Ness – particularly from rocky headlands such as Fife Ness and small sandy bays within the rock platforms/low cliffs such as Cambo Sands and Balcomie Sands;
  • SA13 East Neuk of Fife – particularly from the rocky coastline and sheltered bays, where there are views along the rocky landforms and out to the Isle of May;
  • SA17 Eyebroughty to Torness Point – particularly from the Tantallon Coast and Belhaven Bay SLAs; and
  • SA18/SA19 Torness Point to St Abbs Head – particularly from the Berwickshire coast between Fast Castle Head and St Abbs Head.
  1. The assessment also focuses on landscapes with defined dark skies qualities, including the Northumberland Coast AONB, where areas ‘still retain such dark skies, and these are a special quality of the area’ (Northumberland Coast AONB 2020-2024) and SLAs in East Lothian such as Tantallon Coast and Belhaven Bay ‘where proposed development must not harm the night-time darkness of this area of the coast’ (East Lothian Council, 2018).
  2. Effects of the proposed aviation and marine navigation lighting on the character of urban areas, which do not have dark skies (Figure 15.15) are scoped out of the assessment (however visual effects from certain viewpoints in urban areas is assessed in section 15.11.9). 

SA6 – Lunan Bay

Baseline and Sensitivity to Change
  1. Aside from the small settlement of Lunan and isolated farmsteads and holiday enclaves, there is little illumination in this character area, however aviation lighting of the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm may be visible in night-time views out to sea from Lunan Bay at a minimum distance of 35 km. The sensitivity of the CCA to changes associated with the lighting of the Proposed Development at night is considered to be medium, reflecting a medium value and a medium susceptibility to change. Although the limited illumination of the CCA and general lack of development is recognised and it is a popular beach that people may visit at night, the CCA is not designated, nor well recognised by society for any defined dark skies qualities. The key characteristic that is susceptible to change is the perceived relationship of the sea skyline at night with the dark landform outline of the low headland of Lang Craig to south and the cliffs of Rickle Craig to the north, which provide a limited sense of enclosure. The open sea skyline, however, appears simple across the wide sandy bay that is framed by these headlands, which moderates the susceptibility of the perceived character at night to changes associated with distant lighting of the Proposed Development.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The dark landform outline of the low headland of Lang Craig to south and the cliffs of Rickle Craig to the north may be perceived during civil twilight (dusk), however these characteristics will be appreciated less after the end of civil twilight, when it is technically 'dark' and wind turbine aviation lighting is switched on. Aviation lighting associated within the Proposed Development will be located at long distance in the offshore portion of views from the CCA, on the sea skyline, and will not interrupt the perception of the dark landform outline of the Lang Craig headland to the south, nor the Rickle Craig cliffs to the south. The aviation lights will appear to extend the influence of distant wind turbine aviation lights on the sea skyline to the south of the Seagreen 1 lights, be viewed with separation from the landform, offshore, on or close to the horizon in the backdrop to the simple, large-scale seascape and sandy beach. Lunan Bay is located at distances over 41.5 km from the potential sources of light, which reduces the magnitude of change as viewers are unlikely to perceive the aviation lights to any degree of intensity at such long range. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the perceived character of the CCA at night, resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as low, and when combined with the medium sensitivity of the receptor, results in a not significant (minor), indirect, long term and reversible effect.

SA12 St Andrews to Fife Ness

Baseline and Sensitivity to Change
  1. Outside of the settlement of St Andrews this is not a well-lit area, particularly on and adjacent to the coastal edge, although there is some illumination associated with small settlements, farms and other developments such as the St Andrews Bay Hotel. There is a small lighthouse at Fife Ness and the Isle of May lighthouse is visible from Fife Ness. Dundee forms a distant light source to the north, the influence of which diminishes towards the south. Aviation lighting of the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm may be visible in night-time views out to sea at distances between 28.5 km (at St Andrews) and 15.6 km (at Fife Ness). The sensitivity of the CCA to changes associated with the lighting of the Proposed Development at night is considered to be medium, reflecting a medium value and a medium susceptibility to change. The influence of the Neart na Gaoithe aviation and marine navigation lights is notable in the baseline. Although the CCA is recognised as not being well-lit at the coastal edge and affords opportunities to access the small sandy bays such as Cambo Sands and Balcomie Sands and headlands such as Fife Ness at night, the CCA is not designated, nor well recognised by society for any defined dark skies qualities. The key characteristic that is susceptible to change is the perceived relationship of the indented coastal edge, low cliffs, rocky platforms and occasional sandy bays (such as Cambo Sands and Balcomie Sands) with the dark seascape beyond. The seascape character does however have a simple form comprising relatively straight and low-lying coastal edge, with simple composition that is open to the seascape, which moderates the susceptibility of the perceived character at night to changes associated with distant lighting of the Proposed Development.
Magnitude of change and significance of effect in EIA terms
  1. The indented coastal edge, low cliffs, rocky platforms and occasional sandy bays of the CCA may be perceived during civil twilight (dusk), however these characteristics will be appreciated less after the end of civil twilight, when it is technically 'dark' and wind turbine aviation lighting is switched on. Aviation lighting associated within the Proposed Development will be located at long distance in the offshore portion of views from the CCA, as part of the sea skyline backdrop to the indented, rocky coastal edge. The rocky platforms and occasional clusters of small, rocky islands dotted around the sandy bays, such as the Lecks and Cambo Brigs (Cambo Sands) and the skellies off Balcomie Sands, are very low lying, almost at sea level, so they will remain visually separate from the distant offshore aviation lights of the Proposed Development, which will not interrupt the perceived character of these coastal landforms. The lateral spread of the Proposed Development wind turbine aviation lights will appear subsumed behind and overlapping much of Neart na Gaoithe in views from this CCA at night, therefore only adding a small amount to the HFoV of aviation lighting on the skyline, in which much of the dark sea skyline will be retained and the coastline views unaffected. The CCA is located at distances between 41.7 km (Fife Ness) and 52.9 km (St Andrews) from the potential sources of light, which reduces the magnitude of change as viewers are unlikely to perceive the aviation lights to any degree of intensity at such long range. The visible aviation lights would be small scale and very distant and would integrate with the context of other distant wind turbine aviation lighting seen offshore. As a result of these factors, the magnitude of change on the perceived character of the CCA at night, resulting from the wind turbine aviation lights operating at 2,000 cd is assessed as low, and when combined with the medium sensitivity of the receptor, results in a not significant (minor), indirect, long term and reversible effect.

SA13 – East Neuk of Fife

Baseline and Sensitivity to Change
  1. The area is influenced by the lighting from the regular pattern of villages within the area and the influence of towns along both the northern and southern shores of the Firth of Forth, including the city of Edinburgh to the southwest. There is a small lighthouse at Fife Ness and the Isle of May lighthouse is visible to the south/south-east across the Firth of Forth. Aviation lighting of the Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm may be visible in night-time views out to sea at distances between 15.6 km (at Fife Ness) and 32km (at Elie). The sensitivity of the CCA at night to the offshore wind farm lighting associated within the Proposed Development at night is considered to be medium, reflecting a medium-low value and a medium susceptibility to change. The CCA is not designated, nor well recognised by society for any defined dark skies qualities. At Fife Ness in particular, but also extending along the coastline to St Monans, the influence of the Neart na Gaoithe aviation and marine navigation lights is notable in the baseline. The CCA is also recognised as being well-lit at the coastal edge by the regular pattern of villages and by larger urban areas visible at night to the south across the Firth of Forth. Generally, the coastline is accessed at the small fishing villages (Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem etc) which are lit at night and have busy harbours. The key characteristic that is susceptible to change is the relationship between the coastline of exposed rock platforms, small headlands, sheltered bays and the Isle of May in easterly views along the coast, however the Neart na Gaoithe aviation and marine navigation lighting already occupy much of the sea skyline between the coast and the Isle of May, moderating the susceptibility to further offshore wind turbine lighting in this area.