In March 2005, the Project Proponent, Profit
Point Enterprises Limited, acquired the development site in Yuen Long at
Wo Shang Wai. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was carried out under the
EIA Ordinance (EIAO) since then and the Environmental Permit (EP-311/2008B) for
construction of the comprehensive development in Wo Shang Wai was granted by
EPD on 29 July 2010. The Project involves the residential development and associated
infrastructure and wetland restoration area and linear
landscape area. The construction works under the Environmental Permit commenced
on 12 May 2010.
Heng Shung
Construction Co. Ltd. was commissioned as the Contractor for the Project. Mott
MacDonald Hong Kong Ltd. (“MMHK”)
has been commissioned by Heng Shung Construction Co. Ltd. to undertake the
Environmental Team (ET) services to carry out
environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) for
both pre-construction and construction phases of the
Proposed Comprehensive Development at Wo Shang Wai, Yuen Long.
According to the EP Condition 4.5,
the monthly EM&A Report shall be submitted to the Director within 2 weeks
after the end of the reporting month. This report summarises the findings
during the period from 1 May
2011 to 31 May 2011.
The
organisation chart and lines of communication with respect to the on-site
environmental management structure together with the contact information of the
key personnel are shown in Appendix A.
During the reporting period, construction works
of the Project undertaken include:
¡
Band
drain installation;
¡
Trial
Embankment for Ground Improvement;
and
¡
Site
formation (Filling)
The Construction Works Programme of the
Project is provided in Appendix B. The
general layout plan of the Project site is shown in Figure 1.1.
The
EM&A programme requires environmental monitoring of air quality, noise,
water quality, ecology and
landscape and visual as specified in the approved EM&A Manual.
A
summary of impact EM&A requirements is presented in Table 1.1:
Table
1.1: Summary of
Impact EM&A Requirements
|
Parameters
|
Descriptions
|
Locations
|
Frequencies
|
|
Air Quality
|
24-Hour
TSP
|
ASR1,
ASR2A, ASR3, ASR4
|
Once
every 6 days
|
|
1-Hour
TSP
|
ASR1,
ASR2A, ASR3, ASR4
|
3
times every 6 days
|
|
Noise
|
Leq, 30min
|
NSR1,
NSR3, NSR5, NSR7
|
Weekly
|
|
Water Quality
|
Dissolved
Oxygen (DO), temperature, pH, suspended solids (SS) and Biological Oxygen
Demand (BOD)
|
MP1
to MP6
|
3
days per week
|
|
Ecology
|
Birds
|
Within
the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m
|
Weekly
|
|
Dragonflies and Butterflies
|
Within
the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m
|
Once
per month during Mar and Sep to November, and twice per month during Apr to
Aug
|
|
Herpetofauna
|
Within
the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m
|
Once
per month during Apr to Nov
|
|
Water
quality of WRA
|
Wetland
Restoration Area
|
After
filling of WRA with water, monthly for in situ water quality and every size
months (end of wet season and end of dry season) for laboratory testing
|
|
Site
Inspections
|
Within
the Project Area and Assessment Area of 500m
|
Weekly
|
|
Landscape and Visual
|
Auditing of protection of existing trees,
the transplanting of existing trees, the creation of new wetland, the
planting of new trees and shrubs and other landscape and visual mitigation
measures
|
CM1
to CM10 and OM1 to OM7 within the Project Area
|
Site inspections once every two weeks
during construction phase; once every two months during operational phase
|
The
Environmental Quality Performance Limits for air quality, noise and water
quality are shown in Appendix
C.
The
Event and Action Plan for air quality, noise
and water quality are shown in Appendix D.
The monitoring schedule for the reporting
month is shown in Table 1.2 below:
Table 1.2: Environmental
Monitoring and Audit Schedule for May 2011
For air
quality, construction noise and water quality, ecology,
landscape and visual monitoring methodology, including the monitoring
locations, monitoring equipments used, monitoring parameters, and frequency and
duration etc., are detailed in this Chapter.
In accordance with the EM&A Manual,
1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels monitoring
are to be conducted
during the construction phase. Table
2.1 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of air
quality monitoring.
Table 2.1: Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Monitoring Stations
|
Parameter
|
Frequency and Duration
|
|
ASR1, ASR2A, ASR3 & ASR4
|
24-hour TSP
|
At least once in every six-days
|
|
1-hour TSP
|
3 times every six-days
|
2.2.2
Monitoring Locations
The
4 air quality monitoring stations were established in the EM&A manual and
were slightly adjusted during the baseline monitoring phase. Locations of the
agreed air quality monitoring stations are listed in Table 2.2 and as shown in Figure
2.1.
Table 2.2: Air monitoring
stations
|
Monitoring Stations
|
Locations
|
|
ASR1
|
Works Site Boundary
|
|
ASR2A
|
At the rooftop of refuse collection point, which
is located at the southwest of the project area
|
|
ASR3
|
At the commercial centre at Palm Springs, which is located at the south
of the project area
|
|
ASR4
|
Works Site Boundary
|
Continuous 24-hour TSP air quality
monitoring is
conducted using High Volume Sampler (HVS) (Model: GMWS-2310 Accu-vol). The HVS
meets all the requirements of the EM&A Manual. Portable direct reading dust
meters were used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Table 2.3 summarizes the equipment used in the impact
air quality monitoring.
Table 2.3: TSP Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment
|
Model
|
|
24-hr TSP monitoring
|
|
High Volume
Sampler
|
GMWS 2310
Accu-vol
|
|
Calibrator
|
GMW 25
|
|
1-hr TSP monitoring
|
|
Portable direct
reading dust meter
|
AM510 SidePak
Personal Aerosol Monitor
|
2.2.4
Monitoring Methodology
24-hour
TSP Monitoring
Installation
The
HVS was installed in the vicinity of the air sensitive receiver. The following criteria were considered in the
installation of the HVS.
·
A horizontal platform with appropriate support
to secure the sampler against gusty wind was provided.
·
The distance between the HVS and any obstacles,
such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes
above the HVS.
·
A minimum of 2 meters separation from walls,
parapets and penthouse was required for rooftop sampler.
·
A minimum of 2 meters separation from any
supporting structure, measured horizontally was required.
·
No furnace or incinerator flues or building vent
were nearby.
·
Airflow around the sampler was unrestricted.
·
The sampler has been more than 20 metres from
any drip line.
·
Permission was obtained to set up the samplers
and to obtain access to the monitoring stations.
·
A secured supply of electricity is needed to
operate the samplers.
Preparation of Filter Papers
·
Glass fibre filters, were labelled and
sufficient filters that were clean and without pinholes were selected.
·
All filters were equilibrated in the
conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing. The conditioning
environment temperature was around 25 °C and not variable by more than ±3 °C
with relative humidity (RH) < 50% and was not variable by more than ±5
%. A convenient working RH was 40%.
Field Monitoring
·
The power supply was checked to ensure the HVS
works properly.
·
The filter holder and the area surrounding the
filter were cleaned.
·
The filter holder was removed by loosening the
four bolts and a new filter, with stamped number upward, on a supporting screen
was aligned carefully.
·
The filter was properly aligned on the screen so
that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter.
·
The swing bolts were fastened to hold the filter
holder down to the frame. The pressure
applied should be sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.
·
The shelter lid was closed and was secured with
the aluminium strip.
·
The HVS was warmed-up for about 5 minutes to
establish run-temperature conditions.
·
A new flow rate record sheet was set into the
flow recorder.
·
The flow rate of the HVS was checked and
adjusted at around 1.1 m3/min. The range specified in the EM&A
Manual was between 0.6-1.7 m3/min.
·
The programmable timer was set for a sampling
period of 24 hrs + 1 hr, and the starting time, weather condition and the
filter number were recorded.
·
The initial elapsed time was recorded.
·
At the end of sampling, the sampled filter was
removed carefully and folded in half length so that only surfaces with
collected particulate matter were in contact.
·
It was then placed in a clean plastic envelope
and sealed.
·
All monitoring information was recorded on a
standard data sheet.
·
Filters were sent to a HOKLAS accredited
laboratory for analysis.
Maintenance and Calibration
·
The HVS and its accessories are maintained in
good working condition, such as replacing motor brushes routinely and checking
electrical wiring to ensure a continuous power supply.
·
HVSs were calibrated at 2-month intervals.
·
Calibration records for HVSs are shown in Appendix E.
1-hour
TSP Monitoring
Field Monitoring
The
measuring procedures of the 1-hour dust meter are in accordance with the
Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual as follows:
·
Set POWER to “ON”, push BATTERY
button, make sure that the meter’s indicator is in the range with a red line
and allow the instrument to stand for about 3 minutes (Then, the air sampling
inlet has been capped).
·
Push the knob at MEASURE position.
·
Push “O-ADJ” button. (Then meter’s indication is
0).
·
Push the knob at SENSI ADJ position and set the
meter’s indication to S value described on the Test Report using the trimmer
for SENSI ADJ.
·
Pull out the knob and return it to MEASURE
position.
·
Push “START” button.
Maintenance and Calibration
·
The 1-hour dust meter would be checked at
3-month intervals and calibrated at 1-year intervals throughout all stages of
the air quality monitoring.
·
Calibration records for direct dust meters are
shown in Appendix E.
2.3.1
Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
Following
the requirements in the EM&A Manual for noise, noise monitoring has to be carried out during the construction phase. Continuous noise monitoring for the
A-weighted levels Leq, L10 and L90 is undertaken once per every week.
Table 2.4
summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of air quality
monitoring.
Table 2.4: Noise Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Monitoring Stations
|
Parameter
|
Frequency and Duration
|
|
NSR1, NSR3, NSR5, NSR7
|
Leq, L90 & L10
|
Once every week
|
2.3.2
Monitoring Locations
The
4 noise
quality monitoring stations were established in the EM&A manual and were
slightly adjusted during the baseline monitoring phase. Locations of the agreed
noise
quality monitoring stations are listed in Table
2.5 and as shown in Figure
2.2.
Table 2.5: Noise monitoring
stations
|
Monitoring Stations
|
Locations
|
Type of measurement
|
|
NSR1
|
Noise monitoring equipment was set up near the
boundary wall at Palm Springs.
|
Free-field
|
|
NSR3
|
The monitoring station was located next to the
guard house at Palm Springs.
|
Facade
|
|
NSR5
|
The monitoring station was located within the work
site boundary.
|
Free-field
|
|
NSR7
|
The monitoring station was located near the
boundary wall of the house of Mai Po San Tsuen.
|
Free-field
|
2.3.3
Monitoring Equipments
Integrating
Sound Level Meter will be used
for noise monitoring. It is a
Type 1 sound level meter capable of giving a continuous readout of the noise
level readings including equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq)
and percentile sound pressure level (Lx). They comply with
International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and
804:1985 (Type 1). Table 2.6
summarizes the noise monitoring equipment model being used.
Table 2.6: Noise Monitoring Equipment
|
Monitoring locations
|
Equipment Model
|
|
Integrating Sound
Level Meter
|
Calibrator
|
|
NSR1
|
Rion NL-31
|
Rion NC-74
|
|
NSR3
|
|
NSR5
|
|
NSR7
|
2.3.4
Monitoring Methodology
Field Monitoring
·
The Sound Level Meter was set on a tripod at a
height of at least 1.2 m above the ground.
·
Façade and free-field measurements were made at
the monitoring locations.
·
The battery condition was checked to ensure the
correct functioning of the meter.
·
Parameters such as frequency weighting, the time
weighting and the measurement time were set as follows:
- frequency
weighting: A
- time
weighting: Fast
- time
measurement: 30 minutes intervals (between 0700 and 1900)
·
Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter
was calibrated using a Calibrator for 94 dB at 1 kHz. If the difference in the calibration level
before and after measurement was more than 1 dB, the measurement would be
considered invalid has to be repeated after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.
·
During the monitoring period, the Leq,
L10 and L90 were recorded. In addition, any site observations and noise
sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.
Maintenance and Calibration
·
The microphone head of the sound level meter and
calibrator is cleaned with soft cloth at quarterly intervals.
·
The meter and calibrator are sent to the
supplier or HOKLAS laboratory to check and calibrate at yearly intervals.
·
Calibration records are shown in Appendix E.
2.4.1
Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
In
accordance with the requirements in the EM&A Manual for water quality, water quality parameters including Dissolved Oxygen
(DO), temperature, pH, turbidity, suspended solids (SS) and Biochemical Oxygen
Demand (BOD) have to be monitored at designated monitoring stations during
construction of the Project. DO, temperature and
pH were measured in-situ whereas SS and BOD were analysed in a laboratory. The measurements should be taken at all designated monitoring stations,
3 days per week. The interval between any two sets of monitoring was not less
than 36 hours. Table 2.7 summarizes
the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of water quality monitoring.
Table 2.7: Water Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Monitoring Stations
|
Parameter
|
Frequency and Duration
|
|
MP1, MP2, MP3, MP4, MP5
& MP6
|
DO, temperature, pH, SS,
turbidity, BOD
|
Three days every week
|
2.4.2
Monitoring Locations
The
6 water quality monitoring stations were
established in the EM&A manual. Locations of the agreed water quality monitoring stations are listed in
Table 2.8
and as shown in Figure
2.3.
Table 2.8: Water quality monitoring stations
|
Monitoring Stations
|
Easting
|
Northing
|
|
MP1
|
838 730.50
|
822 862.25
|
|
MP2
|
838 933.26
|
823 247.41
|
|
MP3
|
839 107.17
|
823 596.84
|
|
MP4
|
839 286.14
|
823 638.55
|
|
MP5
|
839 134.35
|
823 722.99
|
|
MP6
|
839 063.02
|
823 842.25
|
2.4.3
Monitoring Equipments
The
Water Quality Monitoring Equipments and Analytical Methods applied to Water
Quality Samples are given in Table 2.9
and Table 2.10
respectively. Details of which are discussed below.
Table 2.9: Water Quality Monitoring Equipments
|
Equipment
|
Model
|
Equipment /Serial Number
|
|
Dissolved oxygen, temperature & pH Measuring Meter
|
YSI Professional Plus
|
10D101566
|
|
Turbidimeter
|
Hach 2100Q
|
09120C000514
|
|
Global Positioning System (GPS)
|
Garmin eTrex
Vista
|
ENO 007
|
Table 2.10: Analytical Methods applied to Water Quality Samples
|
Determinant, unit
|
Standard Method
|
|
Total Suspended Solids, mg/L
|
In house method based on APHA 2540D; ALS Method Code: EA-025
|
|
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), mg/L
|
In house method based on APHA 5210B; ALS Method Code: EP-030
|
All
in-situ monitoring instruments were checked, calibrated and certified by a
laboratory accredited
under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme before use.
Dissolved
Oxygen (DO), temperature and pH measuring equipment
A
portable, weatherproof multiparameter instrument YSI 556 MPS was used in the monitoring. It
can be capable for measuring dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and temperature
simultaneously with the following limits:
·
a dissolved oxygen level in the range of 0-50
mg/L and 0-500 % saturation;
·
a temperature of -5 to 45 degree Celsius; and
·
pH value of 0-14 with 0.1 as the base unit.
Turbidity
Measurement Instrument
Portable
and weatherproof turbidity meter (HACH model 2100P) was used during impact monitoring. It has a photoelectric sensor
capable of measuring turbidity between 0-1000 NTU. Response of the sensor was checked
with certified standard turbidity solutions before the start of measurement.
Global
Positioning System
A
hand-held GPS navigator (Garmin eTrex Vista) was used to identify the designated monitoring stations prior to water sampling.
Suspended Solids and BOD Measurements (Sample
Containers and Storage)
Water samples for SS analysis were stored in
high density polythene bottles with no preservative added, packed in ice
(cooled to 4oC without being frozen), delivered to the laboratory,
and analysed as soon as possible after collection. Analysis was carried out in a
HOKLAS accredited laboratory.
Detection Limit
The limits of
detection for the in-situ and laboratory measurements are shown in Table
2.11.
Table 2.11: Detection
Limits for Water Quality Determinants
|
Determinant
|
Limit of Detection
|
|
Dissolved Oxygen
|
0.1 mg/L
|
|
Temperature
|
0.1
degree Celsius
|
|
pH
|
0.01 unit
|
|
Turbidity
|
0.1 NTU
|
|
Suspended Solids
|
1 mg/L
|
|
BOD
|
2 mg/L
|
2.4.4
Monitoring Methodology
In situ measurement
All pH meters, DO/ temperature meters had been
checked and calibrated prior to use. Standard buffer solution of at least 2 pH
levels (either pH 4 and pH 7 or pH 7 and pH 10) had been used for calibration
of the instrument before and after use.
DO meters had been calibrated by a laboratory
accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme, and
subsequently re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals throughout all stages of the
water quality monitoring. Responses of sensors and electrodes had been checked
with certified standard solutions before each use. Wet bulb calibrations for
all DO meters had been carried out before measurement at each monitoring
location. For the on site calibration of field equipment, BS 127:1993,
"Guide to field and on-site test methods for the analysis of waters"
had been observed.
Measurements shall be at 3 water depths,
namely, 1m below water surface, mid-depth and 1m above stream bed/pond bed,
except where the water depth less that 6m, the mid-depth
station maybe omitted. Should the water depth be less than 3m, only the
mid-depth station will be monitored.
Replicates in-situ measurements and samples
collected from each independent monitoring event are required for all
parameters to ensure a robust statistically interpretable dataset.
Water Samples Preparation and Analysis
For collection of water sampling within the
water courses, a 500ml clean plastic beaker was used. After collection, the
water samples were stored in high-density polythene bottles. The sample
container was rinsed with a portion
of the water sample. The water sample was then transferred to the container,
labelled with a unique sample ID and sealed with a
screw cap. The water samples were stored in a cool box maintained
at 4oC. The water samples were then delivered to a local
HOKLAS-accredited laboratory (ALS) on
the same day for analysis.
The testing methods of testing parameters as
recommended by EIA or required by EPD,
with the QA/QC results are in accordance with the requirement of HOKLAS or
international accredited scheme.
The calibration certificates for equipments used for in-situ
monitoring of water quality are attached in Appendix E.
2.5.1
Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
Target species and certain other fauna will
be monitored within the Project Area and Assessment Area during the wetland and
residential construction phase. This will be important to ensure that any
unexpected events or impacts either on- or off-site are quickly identified so
that remedial action can be taken. The
groups to be monitored and frequency of monitoring are shown in Table 2.12.
Table 2.12: Summary of Construction Phase Ecological Monitoring
for the Wo Shang Wai WRA
|
|
Construction
Phase Ecological Monitoring
|
|
Birds
|
Weekly (including Assessment
Area).
|
|
Dragonflies and Butterflies
|
Once per month during March
and September to November, and twice per month during April to August.
|
|
Herpetofauna
|
Once per month during April
to November.
|
|
Water Quality
|
After filling of WRA with
water, monthly for in situ water
quality and every six months (end of the wet season and end of the dry
season) for laboratory testing.
|
|
Site Inspections
|
Weekly.
|
2.5.2
Monitoring Locations
and Methodology
Ecological
monitoring locations during
construction phase are shown in Figure 4.1 and the methodology for ecological monitoring
is detailed in Section 4.
2.6.1
Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
All measures undertaken by
both the Contractor and the specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor during the
construction phase and first year of the operational phase shall be audited by
a Registered Landscape Architect, as a member of the ET, on a regular basis to
ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures. Site inspections should be undertaken at
least once every two weeks throughout the construction period and once every
two months during the operational phase.
The broad
scope of audit is detailed below but should also be undertaken with reference
to the more specific checklist provided in Table
2.13 below. Operational phase auditing will be restricted to the last 12
months of the establishment works of the landscaping proposals and thus only the
items below concerning this period are relevant to the operational phase.
·
The extent of the agreed works area should be regularly
checked during the construction phase. Any trespass by the Contractor outside
the limit of the works, including any damage to existing trees and woodland
shall be noted;
·
The progress of the engineering works should be regularly
reviewed on site to identify the earliest practical opportunities for the
landscape works to be undertaken;
·
All existing vegetation, streams and other features within
the study area which are not directly affected by the works are retained and
protected;
·
The methods of protecting existing vegetation proposed by the
Contractor are acceptable and enforced;
·
Preparation, lifting transport and re-planting operations for
any transplanted trees;
·
The layout, design and construction of buildings conforms to
requirements specified in the EIA report;
·
All landscaping works are carried out in accordance with the
EIA recommendations and with specifications;
·
The planting of new trees, shrubs, groundcover, climbers,
grasses and other plans, together with the replanting of any transplanted trees
are carried out properly and within the right season;
·
All necessary horticultural operations and replacement
planting are undertaken throughout the Establishment Period to ensure the
healthy establishment and growth of both transplanted trees and all newly
establishment plants.
Table 2.13: Construction and Operation
Phase Audit Checklist
|
Area of Works
|
Items to be Monitored
|
|
Works Area
|
Check the extent of the Works to ensure that the Works Area
is not exceeded
|
|
Protection of all trees and woodland blocks to be retained
|
Identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be
retained, erection of physical protection (e.g. fencing), monitoring against
possible incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.
|
|
Streams
|
Ensure no run-off into existing streams
|
|
Clearance of existing vegetation
|
Identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be
cleared, checking of extent of works to minimize damage, monitoring of
adjacent areas against possible incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution,
surface erosion, etc.
|
|
Transplanting of trees
|
Identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be
transplanted, monitoring of extent of pruning / lifting works to minimize
damage, timing of operations implementation of all stages of preparatory and
translocation works, and maintenance of transplanted vegetation, etc.
|
|
Topsoil stripping
|
Ensuring existing topsoil is stripped and stored under
recognized good practice and is hydroseeded and regularly turned to prevent
anaerobic conditions
|
|
New buildings
|
Ensure that building finishes accord with mitigation
proposals with regard to colour and albedo.
|
|
Boundaries
|
Ensuring hoarding are erected as required
|
|
Noise Barrier
|
Ensure noise barrier design accords with the mitigation
proposals with regard to location, materials and finishes.
|
|
Night-time lighting
|
Ensuring night-time lighting is directional, hooded and
shielded away from VSRs
|
|
Plant supply
|
Monitoring of operations relating to the supply of
specialist plant material (including the collecting, germination and growth
of plants from seed) to ensure that plants will be available in time to be
used within the construction works.
|
|
Landscape and wetland treatments generally
|
Check that wetland, and hard / soft landscape designs
conform to intent of mitigation measures and agreed designs
|
|
Soiling, planting, etc.
|
Monitoring of implementation and maintenance of soiling and
planting works against possible incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution,
surface erosion, etc.
|
|
Establishment Works
|
Monitoring of implementation of maintenance operation
during Establishment Period
|
2.6.2
Monitoring Locations
The monitoring locations should check
against the mitigation measures proposed under the approved Environmental
Impact Assessment, which are summarised as follows:
Table 2.14: Proposed Construction Phase
Mitigation Measures
|
ID No.
|
Landscape and Visual
Mitigation Measure
|
|
CM1
|
The construction area and contractor’s temporary works
areas should be minimised to avoid impacts on adjacent landscape.
|
|
CM2
|
Screening of construction works by hoardings/noise barriers
around Works area in visually unobtrusive colours, to screen Works.
|
|
CM3
|
Reduction of construction period to practical minimum.
|
|
CM4
|
Topsoil, where identified, should be stripped and stored
for re-use in the construction of the soft landscape works, where the soil
material meets acceptable criteria and where practical. The Contract Specification shall include
storage and reuse of topsoil as appropriate.
|
|
CM5
|
Hydroseeding or sheeting of soil stockpiles with visually
unobtrusive material (in earth tone).
|
|
CM6
|
Advance screen planting to noise barriers.
|
|
CM7
|
Control night-time lighting and glare by hooding all
lights.
|
|
CM8
|
Ensure no run-off into streams adjacent to Project Area.
|
|
CM9
|
Protection of existing trees on boundary of project area
shall be carefully protected during construction. Detailed Tree Protection Specification
shall be provided in the Contract Specification. Under this specification,
the Contractor shall be required to submit, for approval, a detailed working
method statement for the protection of trees prior to undertaking any works
adjacent to all retained trees, including trees in contractor’s works
areas. (Tree protection measures will
be detailed at S16 and Tree Removal Application stage).
|
|
CM10
|
Trees unavoidably affected by the works shall be
transplanted where practical. Trees
should be transplanted straight to their destinations and not held in a
nursery. A detailed Tree Transplanting
Specification shall be provided in the Contract Specification, if applicable.
Sufficient time for necessary tree root and crown preparation periods shall
be allowed in the project programme.
|
Table 2.15: Proposed Operation Phase
Mitigation Measures
|
ID
No.
|
Landscape
Mitigation Measure
|
|
OM1
|
Compensatory Tree Planting for all felled trees shall be
provided to the satisfaction of relevant Government departments. Required numbers and locations of
compensatory trees shall be determined and agreed separately with Government during
the Tree Felling Application process under ETWBTC 3/2006.
|
|
OM2
|
A continuous belt of screen planting along southern
perimeter of project area with fast growing tree species. At least 450 trees capable of reaching a
height > 10m within 10 years should be planted. Planting of the belt of trees shall be
carried out as advance works ahead of other site formation and building
works.
|
|
OM3
|
Maximise soft landscape and amenity water bodies in
residential areas of the development.
Approximately 750 of trees (of Heavy Standard size) should be planted. Where space permits, roadside berms should
be created. Street trees should be of species that reach a mature height of
no less than 15m.
|
|
OM4
|
Maximise freshwater habitat wetland creation consistent
with achieving other parameters. Min
4.74 ha to be provided. Wetlands must
have natural edge profiles with >1m wide emergent zone. No access to the wetland by residents and
all wetlands must be screened from residential development by a continuous
tree screen at interface with residential development or earth mounding such
that disturbance is minimised. Implementation of the wetland shall be carried
out as advance works.
|
|
OM5
|
Use appropriate (visually unobtrusive and non-reflective)
building materials and colours in built structures.
|
|
OM6
|
During detailed design, refine building layout to create a
min 10m wide gap between buildings north of Wo Shang Wai pond and also two
min 10m wide gaps in the row of buildings adjacent to Royal Palms.
|
|
OM7
|
Streetscape elements (e.g. paving, signage, street
furniture, lighting etc.) shall be sensitively designed in a manner that
responds to the local context, and minimises potential negative landscape and
visual impacts. Lighting units should
be directional and minimise unnecessary light spill.
|
Impact
monitoring for air quality (dust), noise and water quality due to the
construction work were undertaken during the reporting month in compliance with
the EM&A manual in the reporting period. Regular site inspections were
carried out on 5, 12, 19 and 25 May in the reporting
month to assess the compliance with environmental requirements.
3.2.1.1
1-hr TSP
Results
of 1-hour TSP at the four monitoring locations are summarised in Table 3.1. Graphical
plots of the monitoring results are shown in Appendix F.
Table 3.1: Summary
of 1-hour TSP monitoring results
|
Monitoring Date
|
Start Time
|
1-hr TSP (μg/m3)
|
Range (μg/m3)
|
Action Level (μg/m3)
|
Limit Level (μg/m3)
|
|
1st Result
|
2nd Result
|
3rd Result
|
|
ASR1
|
|
5-May-11
|
9:06
|
102
|
98
|
95
|
82 - 143
|
378
|
500
|
|
11-May-11
|
9:02
|
97
|
90
|
82
|
|
17-May-11
|
9:09
|
90
|
97
|
102
|
|
23-May-11
|
8:45
|
106
|
98
|
93
|
|
27-May-11
|
8:40
|
136
|
143
|
135
|
|
ASR2A
|
|
5-May-11
|
13:11
|
93
|
90
|
102
|
83 - 136
|
357
|
500
|
|
11-May-11
|
13:17
|
94
|
88
|
83
|
|
17-May-11
|
13:10
|
84
|
91
|
95
|
|
23-May-11
|
12:55
|
102
|
97
|
89
|
|
27-May-11
|
13:19
|
131
|
136
|
125
|
|
ASR3
|
|
5-May-11
|
12:58
|
91
|
90
|
103
|
85 - 144
|
358
|
500
|
|
11-May-11
|
13:03
|
86
|
89
|
85
|
|
17-May-11
|
13:03
|
88
|
105
|
90
|
|
23-May-11
|
12:35
|
98
|
92
|
87
|
|
27-May-11
|
12:55
|
137
|
144
|
138
|
|
ASR4
|
|
5-May-11
|
8:48
|
109
|
104
|
110
|
82 - 162
|
372
|
500
|
|
11-May-11
|
8:53
|
95
|
87
|
82
|
|
17-May-11
|
9:02
|
89
|
93
|
99
|
|
23-May-11
|
8:38
|
105
|
97
|
91
|
|
27-May-11
|
8:33
|
162
|
154
|
146
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3.2.1.2
24-hr TSP
Results
of 24-hour TSP at the four monitoring locations are summarised in Table 3.2. Graphical plots of the monitoring results
are shown in Appendix F.
Table 3.2: Summary
of 24-hour TSP monitoring results
|
Monitoring Date
|
Monitoring Results (μg/m3)
|
Range (μg/m3)
|
Action Level (μg/m3)
|
Limit Level (μg/m3)
|
|
ASR1
|
|
|
|
|
|
5-May-11
|
90
|
83 - 98
|
226
|
260
|
|
11-May-11
|
83
|
|
17-May-11
|
98
|
|
23-May-11
|
92
|
|
27-May-11
|
91
|
|
ASR2A
|
|
|
|
|
|
5-May-11
|
88
|
81 - 91
|
213
|
260
|
|
11-May-11
|
83
|
|
17-May-11
|
82
|
|
23-May-11
|
81
|
|
27-May-11
|
91
|
|
ASR3
|
|
|
|
|
|
5-May-11
|
91
|
86 - 91
|
205
|
260
|
|
11-May-11
|
91
|
|
17-May-11
|
90
|
|
23-May-11
|
87
|
|
27-May-11
|
86
|
|
ASR4
|
|
|
|
|
|
5-May-11
|
110
|
83 - 110
|
237
|
260
|
|
11-May-11
|
83
|
|
17-May-11
|
94
|
|
23-May-11
|
90
|
|
27-May-11
|
88
|
No exceedance
of 1-hour and 24-hour TSP (Action or Limit Level) was recorded in the reporting
period.
The
weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G. (Data on 28 May 2011 was not available due
to technical issue)
3.2.2
Construction Noise Monitoring
The
construction noise monitoring results are summarized in Table 3.3.
Graphical plots of the monitoring data are shown in Appendix F.
Table 3.3: Summary
of Construction noise
monitoring results
|
Monitoring Date
|
Start Time
|
Mean & Range
of Noise Levels, dB(A)
|
Limit Level for Leq
(dB)
|
|
Leq
|
L10
|
L90
|
|
NSR1
|
|
|
|
|
> 75
|
|
5-May-11
|
13:19
|
48
|
49
|
41
|
|
11-May-11
|
13:23
|
56
|
59
|
53
|
|
17-May-11
|
13:15
|
55
|
57
|
52
|
|
23-May-11
|
13:05
|
56
|
58
|
53
|
|
NSR3
|
|
|
|
|
|
5-May-11
|
13:58
|
51
|
52
|
43
|
|
11-May-11
|
14:02
|
55
|
57
|
46
|
|
17-May-11
|
13:55
|
56
|
58
|
48
|
|
23-May-11
|
13:48
|
55
|
57
|
47
|
|
NSR5
|
|
|
|
|
|
5-May-11
|
8:52
|
53
|
56
|
48
|
|
11-May-11
|
8:58
|
58
|
60
|
55
|
|
17-May-11
|
9:06
|
54
|
56
|
49
|
|
23-May-11
|
8:42
|
57
|
58
|
54
|
|
NSR7
|
|
|
|
|
|
5-May-11
|
9:32
|
65
|
67
|
61
|
|
11-May-11
|
9:11
|
64
|
66
|
58
|
|
17-May-11
|
9:49
|
65
|
67
|
62
|
|
23-May-11
|
9:22
|
65
|
66
|
59
|
No
exceedance (Action/Limit Level) of construction noise was recorded in the
reporting period.
3.2.3
Water Quality Monitoring
The
water quality monitoring results are summarized in Table 3.4. Graphical plots of the monitoring data are shown in Appendix F.
Table 3.4: Summary of Water quality monitoring
results
|
Monitoring Date
|
Temp (oC)
|
pH
|
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
|
DOS (%)
|
Turbidity (NT)
|
BOD (mg/L)
|
Suspended Solids (mg/L)
|
|
MP1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
28.2
|
7.4
|
2.6
|
33.9
|
26.6
|
7
|
28
|
|
5/5/2011
|
24.6
|
7.5
|
2.1
|
25.2
|
46.7
|
4.5
|
53
|
|
7/5/2011
|
25.2
|
7.8
|
3.2
|
39.0
|
182.5
|
4
|
162.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
27.0
|
7.4
|
2.8
|
34.5
|
146.0
|
3.5
|
118.5
|
|
11/5/2011
|
27.6
|
8.0
|
3.2
|
41.0
|
66.5
|
8
|
77.5
|
|
13/5/2011
|
26.6
|
8.0
|
6.0
|
74.5
|
62.2
|
3
|
58.5
|
|
16/5/2011
|
27.2
|
7.5
|
1.5
|
18.5
|
33.7
|
5
|
30
|
|
18/5/2011
|
26.8
|
7.5
|
2.1
|
20.1
|
46.4
|
4.5
|
42.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
26.9
|
7.4
|
3.7
|
47.3
|
44.4
|
5.5
|
42
|
|
23/5/2011
|
25.4
|
7.5
|
3.8
|
46.4
|
57.5
|
4.5
|
70
|
|
25/5/2011
|
24.7
|
7.6
|
2.9
|
35.2
|
47.3
|
4
|
50
|
|
27/5/2011
|
26.9
|
7.6
|
3.5
|
45.9
|
42.2
|
5.5
|
13
|
|
30/5/2011
|
27.5
|
7.4
|
4.2
|
53.7
|
30.1
|
4
|
19
|
|
Action Level
|
-
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<1.23
|
-
|
>173
|
-
|
>231
|
|
Limit Level
|
-
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<1.17
|
-
|
>177
|
-
|
>299
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP2
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
27.5
|
7.5
|
4.6
|
59.2
|
29.1
|
6
|
33.5
|
|
5/5/2011
|
24.5
|
7.4
|
2.3
|
28.5
|
34.6
|
6
|
42.5
|
|
7/5/2011
|
25.1
|
7.6
|
4.9
|
59.6
|
197.0
|
6
|
305.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
27.2
|
7.5
|
4.8
|
61.0
|
53.5
|
3
|
57.5
|
|
11/5/2011
|
26.4
|
8.1
|
4.2
|
51.3
|
60.1
|
4
|
69.5
|
|
13/5/2011
|
26.3
|
7.8
|
5.7
|
70.4
|
27.2
|
3
|
19.5
|
|
16/5/2011
|
27.0
|
7.5
|
2.3
|
29.1
|
26.7
|
4
|
18
|
|
18/5/2011
|
27.1
|
7.5
|
2.4
|
28.4
|
34.8
|
4
|
29.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
26.6
|
7.5
|
3.6
|
45.7
|
31.3
|
4
|
24.5
|
|
23/5/2011
|
25.6
|
7.6
|
4.2
|
50.7
|
33.4
|
4
|
34
|
|
25/5/2011
|
25.1
|
7.6
|
3.6
|
44.0
|
23.0
|
3
|
26.5
|
|
27/5/2011
|
26.9
|
7.5
|
3.6
|
48.2
|
45.9
|
4
|
13.5
|
|
30/5/2011
|
26.3
|
7.6
|
3.5
|
43.6
|
32.5
|
3
|
19.5
|
|
Action Level
|
-
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<1.04
|
-
|
>132
|
-
|
>170
|
|
Limit Level
|
-
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<0.89
|
-
|
>163
|
-
|
>209
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP3
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
28.7
|
7.8
|
7.5
|
97.4
|
33.6
|
7.5
|
37
|
|
5/5/2011
|
26.2
|
7.5
|
3.7
|
45.7
|
34.5
|
9
|
41.5
|
|
7/5/2011
|
27.4
|
7.6
|
5.3
|
67.9
|
42.9
|
13
|
40.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
29.0
|
7.6
|
5.1
|
67.3
|
26.0
|
9
|
40
|
|
11/5/2011
|
29.9
|
7.5
|
3.5
|
47.0
|
45.5
|
7
|
66
|
|
13/5/2011
|
29.8
|
7.5
|
6.0
|
79.5
|
39.9
|
7
|
44.5
|
|
16/5/2011
|
28.2
|
7.8
|
7.7
|
99.3
|
35.7
|
8.5
|
38
|
|
18/5/2011
|
27.4
|
7.7
|
7.5
|
88.6
|
36.2
|
8.5
|
37
|
|
20/5/2011
|
27.5
|
7.8
|
7.3
|
93.2
|
33.6
|
11
|
37.5
|
|
23/5/2011
|
26.7
|
7.3
|
3.2
|
40.2
|
37.8
|
8
|
37
|
|
25/5/2011
|
24.9
|
7.4
|
4.2
|
51.6
|
46.5
|
8
|
51.5
|
|
27/5/2011
|
27.0
|
7.9
|
5.2
|
66.8
|
30.8
|
9
|
33
|
|
30/5/2011
|
28.5
|
7.8
|
5.4
|
70.1
|
36.2
|
9
|
35
|
|
Action Level
|
-
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<6.85
|
-
|
>64
|
-
|
>65
|
|
Limit Level
|
-
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<6.65
|
-
|
>67
|
-
|
>66
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP4
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
27.7
|
7.0
|
1.7
|
21.3
|
54.3
|
13
|
55.5
|
|
5/5/2011
|
24.8
|
6.9
|
1.1
|
12.7
|
56.6
|
9
|
26
|
|
7/5/2011
|
27.3
|
7.0
|
1.9
|
24.6
|
33.4
|
9
|
24.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
28.3
|
6.9
|
1.6
|
20.1
|
57.1
|
9
|
30.5
|
|
11/5/2011
|
28.5
|
7.0
|
1.2
|
14.9
|
30.6
|
6
|
16
|
|
13/5/2011
|
26.7
|
7.3
|
2.6
|
32.5
|
109.0
|
8
|
86
|
|
16/5/2011
|
26.8
|
7.2
|
1.3
|
16.0
|
44.3
|
8
|
23
|
|
18/5/2011
|
26.5
|
7.3
|
1.2
|
14.9
|
115.0
|
13
|
181.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
27.0
|
7.2
|
1.2
|
15.4
|
53.0
|
14
|
18
|
|
23/5/2011
|
24.3
|
7.2
|
1.9
|
22.9
|
84.9
|
3
|
97
|
|
25/5/2011
|
23.0
|
7.2
|
1.4
|
16.0
|
26.7
|
3.5
|
23
|
|
27/5/2011
|
28.1
|
7.1
|
2.0
|
25.1
|
32.9
|
8.5
|
22.5
|
|
30/5/2011
|
27.3
|
7.0
|
1.3
|
16.7
|
40.2
|
6
|
19
|
|
Action Level
|
-
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<3.91
|
-
|
>60
|
-
|
>50
|
|
Limit Level
|
-
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<3.82
|
-
|
>64
|
-
|
>53
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP5
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
28.8
|
7.3
|
5.4
|
72.3
|
41.1
|
7
|
33.5
|
|
5/5/2011
|
24.7
|
7.1
|
3.1
|
38.0
|
36.2
|
4
|
36.5
|
|
7/5/2011
|
27.2
|
7.1
|
3.7
|
47.9
|
23.7
|
4.5
|
26.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
27.7
|
7.4
|
8.8
|
116.9
|
29.5
|
5.5
|
26
|
|
11/5/2011
|
29.5
|
7.3
|
8.8
|
118.6
|
29.4
|
9.5
|
46
|
|
13/5/2011
|
26.7
|
7.5
|
4.0
|
49.9
|
223.5
|
10
|
139
|
|
16/5/2011
|
27.0
|
7.3
|
1.3
|
16.6
|
72.8
|
7.5
|
70.5
|
|
18/5/2011
|
27.3
|
7.2
|
1.3
|
16.0
|
36.1
|
5
|
20.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
27.7
|
7.8
|
10.1
|
129.2
|
135.5
|
37
|
69.5
|
|
23/5/2011
|
24.8
|
7.2
|
3.0
|
36.6
|
56.4
|
3
|
39
|
|
25/5/2011
|
23.8
|
7.3
|
3.0
|
35.8
|
27.1
|
3
|
20.5
|
|
27/5/2011
|
29.5
|
7.3
|
3.8
|
50.6
|
39.8
|
3
|
25.5
|
|
30/5/2011
|
28.6
|
7.3
|
4.5
|
59.5
|
42.6
|
4
|
34
|
|
Action Level
|
-
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<4.13
|
-
|
>81
|
-
|
>66
|
|
Limit Level
|
-
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<3.87
|
-
|
>84
|
-
|
>69
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP6
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
28.3
|
6.9
|
4.5
|
59.6
|
88.0
|
3.5
|
68
|
|
5/5/2011
|
24.4
|
7.2
|
2.6
|
31.2
|
53.4
|
3
|
50.5
|
|
7/5/2011
|
26.9
|
7.1
|
4.3
|
55.1
|
43.8
|
4
|
39.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
28.6
|
7.1
|
7.6
|
100.9
|
50.9
|
3.5
|
41
|
|
11/5/2011
|
28.9
|
7.0
|
4.8
|
64.5
|
82.8
|
5
|
108.5
|
|
13/5/2011
|
26.7
|
7.2
|
4.6
|
57.3
|
178.0
|
13
|
118
|
|
16/5/2011
|
27.0
|
7.1
|
2.4
|
31.0
|
36.7
|
3
|
23
|
|
18/5/2011
|
27.5
|
7.2
|
2.8
|
32.5
|
66.9
|
4
|
49.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
27.5
|
7.5
|
11.4
|
145.6
|
98.7
|
23
|
59
|
|
23/5/2011
|
24.7
|
7.1
|
3.9
|
47.2
|
76.7
|
3
|
59
|
|
25/5/2011
|
23.5
|
7.2
|
4.0
|
47.2
|
46.0
|
2.5
|
30
|
|
27/5/2011
|
29.1
|
7.4
|
4.5
|
59.2
|
38.9
|
3
|
28.5
|
|
30/5/2011
|
27.9
|
7.3
|
5.4
|
71.3
|
46.2
|
2
|
25
|
|
Action Level
|
-
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<4.61
|
-
|
>94
|
-
|
>75
|
|
Limit Level
|
-
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<4.52
|
-
|
>96
|
-
|
>75
|
Notes:
Values Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.
Values Underlined and Bold indicate
Limit Level exceedance.
Exceedances of pH, DO, turbidity and SS were observed at MP1 to MP6.
Exceedances of pH were frequently observed at MP1 to MP3 while DO were exceeded
frequently at MP3 to MP6. Turbidity and/or SS exceedances were recorded on a
few days at all monitoring stations.
The Event
and Action Plan in Appendix D was followed under these cases of exceedances.
From
investigation, construction activities during the period of exceedance included
mainly band drain installation, trial embankment for ground improvement and
site formation (filling). It was observed that the Contractor has implemented
water quality mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA report, including
the provision of temporary drainage facility and associated treatment facility.
Sand bags are in place in the temporary drainage channel to enhance the
desilting efficiency. The Contractor further enhanced the water quality
mitigation measures by erecting several segments of rock bunds at the discharge
outlet to avoid site runoff draining directly to the northern ditches.
Exceedances of action level of pH
were observed at MP1 and MP2 on various days and one occasion of limit level
exceedance of pH was found at MP2 on 11 May 2011. On the other hand, limit
level of turbidity was exceeded at MP1 on 7 May 2011 and on the same day
exceedances of limit levels of turbidity and SS were observed at MP2. From
investigation, there was no direct discharge from the site to the ditch where
MP1 and MP2 are located, so the exceedances were not considered to be related
to the construction activities. The exceedances of pH could be due to natural
variations. The turbidity/SS exceedance could be due to low water level and
prominent fish activity in the stream (photo 4) on the monitoring date.
The action level of pH and limit
level of DO exceedances were frequently observed at MP3. The action level of SS
was exceedance once on 11 May 2011. As understood, the fish pond near the site
(represented by MP3) was being separated from the construction site by the WRA
since November 2010, so the exceedances were not considered to be related to
the construction activities. The exceedances of pH could be due to natural
variations while exceedances of DO and SS maybe due to external factors such as
pond fish culture activities which were out of the control of the project.
pH was exceeded only once at MP5 on
20 May 2011. Action and limit levels of DO were exceeded frequently
(particularly at MP4). DO at MP5 to MP6 fluctuated in May 2011 and were very
high on some days (e.g. 10.1 mg/L at MP5 and 11.4 mg/L at MP6 on 20 May 2011).
Limit level exceedances of turbidity and/SS were observed at MP4 on 3, 13, 18
and 23 May 2011; at MP5 on 13, 16 and 20 May 2011; and at MP6 on 11, 13 and 20
May 2011.
From observations on 20 May 2011,
green water was observed at the ditch near MP4 to MP6 and this showed that
algal bloom appearing in April 2011 has persisted. Under sunlight,
photosynthesis dominates and DO increases. As algae grows further and dies, it
causes increase in suspended solid and a decrease in DO in the water. The fluctuation
of DO were recorded during May 2011 confirmed that there was algal bloom in the
ditch.
The growth and death of algae
increased turbidity and SS in the water, causing exceedances at MP4 to MP6. On
the other hand, the dying of algae later on has resulted in a decrease in DO
and caused an exceedance of SS. It was therefore considered that the DO
exceedances during the period and turbidity/SS exceedances on 3, 16, 18 and 20
were caused by algal bloom.
From record of the Hong Kong
Observatory, Amber and Red rainstorm warning signals were hoisted on 13 and 22
May 2011 respectively. The heavy rainfall could have caused large amount of
surface runoff from all sources in the vicinity of the ditch. It is believed
that the runoff has significantly increased the turbulence and thus resulted in
higher turbidity and SS inside the ditch water on 13 and 23 May 2011.
Moreover, since the site discharge
was controlled and treated by the AquaSed system during the period, it was
concluded that the exceedances were not related to the construction activities
in the project.
This report documents surveys
conducted in the Survey Area between 1 May and 31 May 2011. The Wetland Restoration Area (hereafter WRA) is also surveyed as the
area is accessible and site formation works for WRA has been completed. The updated survey transect is provided in Figure 4.1. Dates and ecological surveys conducted during this period are
summarised in Appendix H.
Monitoring was undertaken following
the survey methodology in the EM&A Manual. A transect was followed in the
bird surveys (see Figure 4.1). All bird species of conservation importance and/or wetland dependent
were identified and enumerated. Flying birds were not recorded unless they were
foraging and associated with the habitat (such as swifts). Further, notable
bird observations during other surveys were also recorded.
Bird
surveys were conducted on a weekly basis. A total of 20 bird species of
conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence were recorded within 500 m of
the Project Site while 13 bird species were recorded in the WRA. Of the 13
species recorded within the WRA, 11 of them were species of conservation
importance and/or wetland-dependent species. A summary of survey data is
provided in Appendix I. The site
supported breeding pairs of some wetland-dependent birds, including five to six
pairs of Little Ringed Plover Charadrius
dubius, one pair of White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus and two suspected records of Zitting
Cisticola Cisticola juncidis. Other birds breeding on-site include Chinese
Bulbul Pycnonotus sinensis,
Yellow-bellied Prinia Prinia flaviventris
and Plain Prinia Prinia inornata.
Species and numbers recorded in this survey period are typical of fish
pond areas in early summer months indicating that birds in the area are not
presently being adversely affected by the construction of the WRA.
Two day
time and two night time herpetofauna surveys were conducted in the period. A total of four amphibian species and a
single reptile species were recorded in the survey area, while three of these
amphibian species were recorded in the WRA. Tadpoles, probably of Günther’s
Frog Rana guentheri, were recorded in
high numbers in the fish-free pond (marsh area). All species recorded are very
common and widespread in northwestern Hong Kong.
A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.
Monitoring
of dragonflies and butterflies was conducted on a twice monthly basis. A total
of 15 dragonfly species and nine butterfly species were recorded in the survey,
of which ten dragonfly and four butterfly species were recorded in the WRA. One
dragonfly species of conservation importance (i.e. Coastal Glider Macrodiplax cora) was recorded in the
survey area. This species is considered to be uncommon and of Local Concern in Hong Kong. A summary of the survey findings is provided
in Appendix J.
Monitoring
of mammals was conducted concurrently with other surveys. No mammals were
recorded in the survey period.
Reed transplant
from the reedbed nursery to Cells 2 to 3 were undertaken. Other management
activities undertaken comprised largely of weeding. Planting of the WRA is
anticipated to be undertaken in June and ground preparation work has commenced.
Ecological monitoring during May 2011 was carried out following the
survey methodology and frequency outlined in the EM&A Manual.
A total of 20 bird species, 15 dragonfly species, 9 butterfly species, 4
amphibian and 1 reptile species were recorded in the survey area. Survey
findings indicate that the ponds within the Survey Area supported numbers and
diversity of wetland-dependent birds and other species of conservation
importance typical of fish pond areas in early wet season.
13 bird species, 10 dragonfly species, 4 butterfly species and 3
amphibian species were recorded in the WRA. These findings indicate that the
WRA is already supporting wetland-dependent birds and other species of
conservation importance.
The EM&A programme for Landscape and
Visual impact due to the construction commenced in May 2010 and was continued
during the reporting period. Site inspections on Landscape and Visual impact were
carried out on 12 and 31 May 2011 to confirm the implementation of mitigation
measures at construction stage.
The audit
was undertaken with references to the specific checklists provided in Tables 2.13 – 2.15 and audit results
are summarized as below:
Table 5.1: Construction and Operation
Phase Audit Summary
|
Area of Works
|
Items to be Monitored
|
|
Works Area
|
The boundaries of the works
area have been established on site in accordance with the contract documents
and approved plans (EP), and the limit of current heavy construction activity
is now confined to within the site hoardings (North side of the site /
access road) and the noise barriers (other sides of the site). Minor works
such as horticultural maintenance of the planting and transplanted trees,
and boundary fence repair was proceeding along the Royal Palms - Palm Springs boundary.
No construction works were
observed to have exceeded the site boundaries. Moreover, no construction was carried out at the wetland restoration area after 15 November 2010.
|
|
Protection of all trees and
woodland blocks to be retained
|
Trees retained within the
site along the northeast boundary, beside wetland restoration area cell 4,
have been identified and protected by temporary protective fencing.
|
|
Streams
|
The works site is encircled
by a berm to intercept surface water and prevent it from washing off into
any of the neighboring sites. Surface
water is collected within the site in a temporary drainage channel. Gravels beds and barriers have been
installed to filter site runoff, sedimentation tanks provided to enable
primary treatment before discharge to mains drains.
|
|
Clearance of existing vegetation
|
Site clearance was completed
prior to the commencement of construction.
|
|
Transplanting of trees
|
Tree transplanting has been
completed, with the trees relocated to various points within the planting
strip along the southern boundary of the site, outside the noise
barrier. The trees continue to re-establish
well.
|
|
Topsoil stripping
|
Suitable pond bund and soil material
which had been excavated and stockpiled from the original site, has now
largely been re-used within the landscape works
Dust suppression measures are
active along all internal site access tracks.
|
|
New buildings
|
No new permanent buildings
have yet been constructed on site
|
|
Boundaries
|
Hoardings have been erected
along most of the boundaries of the site.
Installation of new screen fence between the future residential sites
and the constructed wetland restoration areas is complete. Fence has been
painted green to match with the surrounding vegetated environment.
|
|
Noise Barrier
|
Noise barriers have been
installed along the southern and western boundaries of the site in
accordance with the contract requirements.
Their design complies with the mitigation requirements, with upper 6
to 7m portion of the barrier being made from a translucent material with
green tinted (to match with the environment). Supporting GMS structure,
likewise, has been painted green.
|
|
Night-time lighting
|
No night-time works were
reported to have been carried out during the monitoring period
|
|
Landscape and wetland treatments
|
Continuous belt of screen
planting along the southern and western boundaries of the site has been
completed. The formation, soiling and
water control structures for all four of the wetland restoration areas has
been completed.
The wetland areas have been
established, with the ponds in cell 1to cell 4 now partially filled with
rain water.
|
|
Soiling
|
The soiling for the advance
planting strip has been completed.
The soil placement and grading for each of the wetland restoration
areas has been completed.
|
|
Plant supply
|
The plant material used for
the Advance Planting Strip along the southern and western boundaries of the
site are all common species and came from commercial sources. Details of the procurement of special
plant material for the wetland areas are to be provided when nursery
supplies become available in 2011.
|
|
Planting
|
The total numbers of trees
that will reach a minimum of 10m in the advance planting strip meet the
contract requirements. The tree
species are all from the approved list.
This planting should achieve the required screening effect. A number of newly planted trees that have
died, and a few others are in poor condition. Replacement planting is required.
|
|
Establishment Works
|
The advance planting, the
compensatory planting and the transplanted trees are being maintained by the
landscape sub-contractor in accordance with the specification to ensure that
the contract requirements are met.
Overhanging trees from
adjacent properties have been cut back to allow more light to the shrubs
within the Advance Planting Strip, and will need to be regularly
managed
Low coverage of some areas of
shrubs need to be rectified with further infill planting. Weeding is required.
Leaves from trees along the
boundary fence which have fallen, within the advance planting strip and are
affecting the health of the shrubs and should be cleared.
Some of the stands of Phragmites australis reeds
(translocated from the original site) which are set away from the current
water edge of the ponds in cell1 and cell 2 are in poor condition. Watering
is required.
|
The ET had carried out construction phase
weekly site inspections on 5, 12, 19 and 25 May 2011. All observations have
been recorded in the site inspection checklist and passed to the Contractor
together with the appropriate recommended mitigation measures where necessary.
The key observations from site inspections and associated recommendations are
summarized in Table 6.1.
Table 6.1: Summary
of Site Inspections and Recommendations
|
Key Observations
|
ET Recommendation
|
Contractor’s Responses / Action(s) Undertaken
|
Close-out (Date)
|
|
Some tarpaulins for stockpiles have
been weathered out
|
To replace the old tarpaulin
sheets
|
Agreed and action taken
|
19 May 2011
|
|
The access road for reed
transplant was dry
|
To provide watering to the road
and implement watering regularly during the work
|
Agreed and action immediately taken
|
19 May 2011
|
|
Large area of ponding water
|
To clear the stagnant water
|
Agreed and action taken
|
8 Jun 2011
|
|
Soil slid into drainage channel in
the site after rainfall
|
To remove the soil from the
channel
|
Agreed and action taken
|
1 Jun 2011
|
|
Some tarpaulin sheets for trial
embankment slopes have been weathered out
|
To provide the old tarpaulin
sheets
|
Agreed and action to be taken
|
On-going
|
|
Rock filter in drainage channel
partially washed away
|
To make good the rock filter
|
Agreed and action taken
|
8 Jun 2011
|
The Contractor has been registered as a
chemical waste producer for the Project. Construction and demolition (C&D)
material sorting was carried out on site. A sufficient number of receptacles were
available for general refuse collection.
As advised by the Contractor, 0 tonnes of C&D material were
generated on site during the period. No metals was generated and collected by
registered recycling collector. No paper cardboard packing and plastic were
generated on site and collected by registered recycling collector. No chemical
waste was generated and collected by licensed chemical waste collector. 1.8
tonnes of other types of wastes (e.g. general refuse) was generated on site and
disposed of at public landfill facility at NENT.
The Contractor is advised to maintain on
site waste sorting and recording system and maximize reuse/recycling of C&D
wastes.
The environmental permits, licenses, and/or
notifications on environmental protection for this Project which were valid during
the period is summarised in Table 6.2.
Table
6.2: Status of
Environmental Submissions, Licenses and Permits
|
Statutory Reference
|
Description
|
Permit /Reference No.
|
Status
|
|
EIAO
|
Environmental Permit
|
EP-311/2008B
|
Valid
|
|
APCO
|
Notification of Construction Work under
APCO
|
316688
(27 Apr
2010)
|
Valid
|
|
WPCO
|
Discharge License
|
WT00007442-2010
(2 Nov 2010)
|
Valid
|
|
WDO
|
Registration as Chemical
Waste Producer
|
WPN0000-542-H3083-04
|
Valid
|
|
WDO
|
Bill Account for disposal
|
700945423
|
Valid
|
Legend: EIAO – Environmental Impact Assessment
Ordinance
APCO – Air Pollution Control Ordinance
WPCO – Water Pollution Control Ordinance
WDO – Waste Disposal Ordinance
The EM&A programme followed the
recommended mitigation measures in the EM&A manual. The EM&A
requirements as well as the summary of implementation status of the
environmental mitigation measures are provided in Appendix K. In particular, the following mitigation
measures were brought to attention during the site audits:
Air Quality
·
All
stockpiles should be
covered by tarpaulin or kept wet by water spraying;
·
All
vehicles should be washed to remove any dusty materials before leaving the
construction sites;
·
the
portion of road leading the construction site that is within 30m of a designated vehicle entrance or exit
should be kept clear of dusty materials;
·
During the dry season, sufficient water spraying
should be provided at haul road to reduce dust emission; and
·
Ensure proper functioning of the wheel wash facility.
Noise
·
Mobile
plant should be sited
as far away from NSRs as possible;
·
Plant
known to emit noise strongly in one direction should be orientated to direct
noise away from the NSRs; and
·
The construction activities should be better scheduled to reduce noise nuisance.
Water Quality
·
Water accumulated in the site (including water inside
drip trays) should be cleared frequently;
·
Ensure
proper functioning of the wastewater
treatment facility; and
·
Silt and debris should be removed from the temporary
drainage channel regularly.
Waste management
·
Reuse the excavated materials as far as practical to
reduce the amount of waste disposal;
·
Ensure drip trays are provided for chemical containers
to prevent leakage or soil contamination;
·
All
plants and vehicles should be properly maintained to prevent oil leakage;
·
Oil
stains on soil should be cleared by disposal of contaminated soil; and
There is no breach
of Action or Limit Levels for Air Quality and Noise monitoring in the reporting
month.
Exceedances of pH, DO, turbidity and SS were observed at MP1 to MP6.
Exceedances of pH were frequently observed at MP1 to MP3 while DO were exceeded
frequently at MP3 to MP6. Turbidity and/or SS exceedances were recorded on a
few days at all monitoring stations.
Table 7.1: Summary of
exceedances in Water Quality
|
Monitoring Date
|
pH
|
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
|
Turbidity (NT)
|
Suspended Solids (mg/L)
|
|
MP1
|
|
|
|
|
|
7/5/2011
|
7.8
|
3.2
|
182.5
|
162.5
|
|
11/5/2011
|
8.0
|
3.2
|
66.5
|
77.5
|
|
13/5/2011
|
8.0
|
6.0
|
62.2
|
58.5
|
|
25/5/2011
|
7.6
|
2.9
|
47.3
|
50
|
|
27/5/2011
|
7.6
|
3.5
|
42.2
|
13
|
|
Action Level
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<1.23
|
>173
|
>231
|
|
Limit Level
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<1.17
|
>177
|
>299
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP2
|
|
|
|
|
|
7/5/2011
|
7.6
|
4.9
|
197.0
|
305.5
|
|
11/5/2011
|
8.1
|
4.2
|
60.1
|
69.5
|
|
13/5/2011
|
7.8
|
5.7
|
27.2
|
19.5
|
|
23/5/2011
|
7.6
|
4.2
|
33.4
|
34
|
|
25/5/2011
|
7.6
|
3.6
|
23.0
|
26.5
|
|
30/5/2011
|
7.6
|
3.5
|
32.5
|
19.5
|
|
Action Level
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<1.04
|
>132
|
>170
|
|
Limit Level
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<0.89
|
>163
|
>209
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP3
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
7.8
|
7.5
|
33.6
|
37
|
|
5/5/2011
|
7.5
|
3.7
|
34.5
|
41.5
|
|
7/5/2011
|
7.6
|
5.3
|
42.9
|
40.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
7.6
|
5.1
|
26.0
|
40
|
|
11/5/2011
|
7.5
|
3.5
|
45.5
|
66
|
|
13/5/2011
|
7.5
|
6.0
|
39.9
|
44.5
|
|
16/5/2011
|
7.8
|
7.7
|
35.7
|
38
|
|
18/5/2011
|
7.7
|
7.5
|
36.2
|
37
|
|
20/5/2011
|
7.8
|
7.3
|
33.6
|
37.5
|
|
23/5/2011
|
7.3
|
3.2
|
37.8
|
37
|
|
25/5/2011
|
7.4
|
4.2
|
46.5
|
51.5
|
|
27/5/2011
|
7.9
|
5.2
|
30.8
|
33
|
|
30/5/2011
|
7.8
|
5.4
|
36.2
|
35
|
|
Action Level
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<6.85
|
>64
|
>65
|
|
Limit Level
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<6.65
|
>67
|
>66
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP4
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
7.0
|
1.7
|
54.3
|
55.5
|
|
5/5/2011
|
6.9
|
1.1
|
56.6
|
26
|
|
7/5/2011
|
7.0
|
1.9
|
33.4
|
24.5
|
|
9/5/2011
|
6.9
|
1.6
|
57.1
|
30.5
|
|
11/5/2011
|
7.0
|
1.2
|
30.6
|
16
|
|
13/5/2011
|
7.3
|
2.6
|
109.0
|
86
|
|
16/5/2011
|
7.2
|
1.3
|
44.3
|
23
|
|
18/5/2011
|
7.3
|
1.2
|
115.0
|
181.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
7.2
|
1.2
|
53.0
|
18
|
|
23/5/2011
|
7.2
|
1.9
|
84.9
|
97
|
|
25/5/2011
|
7.2
|
1.4
|
26.7
|
23
|
|
27/5/2011
|
7.1
|
2.0
|
32.9
|
22.5
|
|
30/5/2011
|
7.0
|
1.3
|
40.2
|
19
|
|
Action Level
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<3.91
|
>60
|
>50
|
|
Limit Level
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<3.82
|
>64
|
>53
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP5
|
|
|
|
|
|
5/5/2011
|
7.1
|
3.1
|
36.2
|
36.5
|
|
7/5/2011
|
7.1
|
3.7
|
23.7
|
26.5
|
|
13/5/2011
|
7.5
|
4.0
|
223.5
|
139
|
|
16/5/2011
|
7.3
|
1.3
|
72.8
|
70.5
|
|
18/5/2011
|
7.2
|
1.3
|
36.1
|
20.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
7.8
|
10.1
|
135.5
|
69.5
|
|
23/5/2011
|
7.2
|
3.0
|
56.4
|
39
|
|
25/5/2011
|
7.3
|
3.0
|
27.1
|
20.5
|
|
27/5/2011
|
7.3
|
3.8
|
39.8
|
25.5
|
|
Action Level
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<4.13
|
>81
|
>66
|
|
Limit Level
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<3.87
|
>84
|
>69
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MP6
|
|
|
|
|
|
3/5/2011
|
6.9
|
4.5
|
88.0
|
68
|
|
5/5/2011
|
7.2
|
2.6
|
53.4
|
50.5
|
|
7/5/2011
|
7.1
|
4.3
|
43.8
|
39.5
|
|
11/5/2011
|
7.0
|
4.8
|
82.8
|
108.5
|
|
13/5/2011
|
7.2
|
4.6
|
178.0
|
118
|
|
16/5/2011
|
7.1
|
2.4
|
36.7
|
23
|
|
18/5/2011
|
7.2
|
2.8
|
66.9
|
49.5
|
|
20/5/2011
|
7.5
|
11.4
|
98.7
|
59
|
|
23/5/2011
|
7.1
|
3.9
|
76.7
|
59
|
|
25/5/2011
|
7.2
|
4.0
|
46.0
|
30
|
|
27/5/2011
|
7.4
|
4.5
|
38.9
|
28.5
|
|
Action Level
|
<5.5 or >7.5
|
<4.61
|
>94
|
>75
|
|
Limit Level
|
<4.0 or >8.0
|
<4.52
|
>96
|
>75
|
Notes:
Values Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.
Values Underlined and Bold indicate
Limit Level exceedance.
No environmental
complaint was received the reporting month.
No notifications of
summons or successful prosecution were received the reporting month.
Investigations have been carried out to identify
the causes of exceedance.
From investigation, construction activities
during the period of exceedance included mainly band drain installation, trial
embankment and site formation (filling). It was observed that the Contractor
has implemented water quality mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA
report, including the provision of temporary drainage facility and associated
treatment facility. Sand bags are in place in the temporary drainage channel to
enhance the desilting efficiency. The Contractor further enhanced the water
quality mitigation measures by erecting several segments of rock bunds at the
discharge outlet to avoid site runoff draining directly to the northern
ditches.
With external factors
affect the adjacent environments, such as natural variations, pond fish culture
activities, algal bloom and rainstorms, the exceedances were considered not due
to construction works.
As non-compliances have been recorded, the
Event and Action Plan has been followed. Although it is considered that the
exceedances were not related to the Project, the Contractor was reminded to
implement the water quality mitigation measures in accordance with the
recommendation stated in Section 5.6.1 – 5.6.4 of the EIA Report as far as
practicable and regular spot check would be conducted on the nearby discharge
by Contractor and inform ET for investigation.
To cater for the site runoff in wet season, the
Contractor has further enhanced the water quality mitigation measures by erecting
several segments of rock bunds at the discharge outlet to avoid site runoff
draining directly to the northern ditches.
Cumulative statistics for complaints, notifications of summons and
successful prosecutions for the Project account for period starting from the
date of commencement of construction (i.e. 12 May 2010) to the end of the
reporting month and are summarized in the Table
7.2 below.
Table
7.2: Statistics for complaints, notifications of
summons and successful prosecutions
|
Reporting Period
|
Cumulative
Statistics
|
|
|
Complaints
|
Notifications of
summons
|
Successful
prosecutions
|
|
This reporting month (May 2011)
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
|
From 12 May 2010 to end
of the reporting month (May 2011)
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
The major site works to be commissioned in the coming month
include:
¡
Band
drain installation (until end of June 2011);
¡
Trial Embankment for Ground Improvement (until end of June 2011); and
¡
Site
Formation (Filling)
Key issues to be considered in the coming month include:
¡
Generation
of dust from activities on-site (esp. stockpiling for Trial Embankment) during
dry weather condition;
¡
Noise
impact from operating equipment and machinery on-site;
¡
Generation
of site surface runoffs and wastewater from activities on-site;
¡
Sorting,
recycling, storage and disposal of general refuse and construction waste from
activities on-site; and
¡
Management
of chemicals and avoidance of oil spillage on-site and to the drainage.
The environmental site inspection and environmental monitoring will be continued in the coming
month. Impact monitoring for air, noise,
water quality, ecology and landscape and visual in
accordance with the approved EM&A Manual has commenced since 12 May 2010.
The tentative monitoring schedule for June 2011 is shown in the Table 8.1.
Table 8.1: Tentative Environmental Monitoring and
Audit Schedule for Jun 2011
8.4.1
Conclusions
The EM&A programme as recommended in the EM&A manual
has been undertaken in the reporting month since 12 May 2010.
Monitoring of Air Quality, Noise, Water Quality, Ecology and
Landscape and Visual impacts due to the Project was under way. In particular,
the 1-hr TSP, 24-hr TSP, noise level (as Leq) and water quality
parameters (such as pH, DO and SS) under monitoring have been checked against
established Action and Limit levels.
There was no breach of Action and Limit Levels for 1-hr TSP,
24-hr TSP and noise in the
reporting month.
Exceedances of pH,
DO, turbidity and SS were observed at MP1 to MP6. Exceedances of pH were
frequently observed at MP1 to MP3 while DO were exceeded frequently at MP3 to
MP6. Turbidity and/or SS exceedances were recorded on a few days at all
monitoring stations. The summary of measured water quality is presented
in Section 3.2.3.
From
investigation, the Contractor has implemented water quality mitigation measures
as recommended in the EIA report. With external factors affect the adjacent
environments, such as natural variations, pond fish culture activities, algal
bloom and rainstorms, the exceedances were considered not due to construction
works.
8.4.2
Recommendations
With considerations
on the construction activities and environment, the following recommendations
were provided:
Air Quality
·
All stockpiles should be covered by tarpaulin or kept
wet by water spraying;
·
All
vehicles should be washed to remove any dusty materials before leaving the
construction sites;
·
the
portion of road leading the construction site that is within 30m of a designated vehicle entrance or exit
should be kept clear of dusty materials;
·
Sufficient water spraying should be provided at haul
road to reduce dust emission, especially during dry weather conditions; and
·
Ensure proper functioning of the wheel wash facility.
Noise
·
Mobile plant should be sited as far away from NSRs as
possible;
·
Plant
known to emit noise strongly in one direction should be orientated to direct
noise away from the NSRs; and
·
The
construction activities should be better scheduled to reduce noise nuisance.
Water Quality
·
Water accumulated in the site (including water inside
drip trays) should be cleared frequently;
·
Ensure
proper functioning of the wastewater treatment facility; and
·
Silt and debris should be removed from the temporary
drainage channel regularly.
Waste management
·
Reuse the excavated materials as far as practical to
reduce the amount of waste disposal;
·
Ensure drip trays are provided for chemical containers
to prevent leakage or soil contamination;
·
All
plants and vehicles should be properly maintained to prevent oil leakage;
·
Oil
stains on soil should be cleared by disposal of contaminated soil;
