Halcrow has worked with the client to develop specifics of a proposed tidal energy project off the coast of Scotland.
Halcrow carried out the initial stages of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) including preparing an Environmental Scoping Report and agreeing and setting up ecological surveys. Halcrow identified relevant stakeholders and facilitated discussion with the statutory consultees. The team identified and reviewed available baseline information and carried out potential impact identification process. We scoped out the requirements for further baseline data collection, assessment and considerations to be taken account of in completing the EIA.
The Scoping Report was circulated to consultees to obtain their opinion on the requirements of the full EIA. The responses were reviewed and follow on actions were planned to address the issues raised by the consultees. An ecological surveying programme was developed and agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage. Briefs were drawn up for various surveys including benthic habitats, birds, marine mammals and Phase 1 habitat surveys. Suitable sub-consultants were contacted to carry out the surveys.
A full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be carried out over 2010-2011.