Proposed Comprehensive Development at Wo Shang Wai Yuen Long

Monthly EM&A Report for September 2015

October 2015

Heng Shung Development Co. Ltd.

 

 

 

Certification by Environmental Team Leader and Verification by Independent Environmental Checker

 

 

 


Information class:

Standard

This document is issued for the party which commissioned it and for specific purposes connected with the above-captioned project only. It should not be relied upon by any other party or used for any other purpose.

We accept no responsibility for the consequences of this document being relied upon by any other party, or being used for any other purpose, or containing any error or omission which is due to an error or omission in data supplied to us by other parties.

This document contains confidential information and proprietary intellectual property. It should not be shown to other parties without consent from us and from the party which commissioned it.

 

 

 

 


Contents

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter    Title                                                                                                                           Page

1.1______ Introduction_____________________________________________________________________ 1

1.2______ Project Organization______________________________________________________________ 1

1.3______ Environmental Status in the reporting period____________________________________________ 2

1.4______ Summary of EM&A Requirements____________________________________________________ 2

2.1______ Introduction_____________________________________________________________________ 4

2.2______ Air Quality______________________________________________________________________ 4

2.3______ Construction Noise_______________________________________________________________ 7

2.4______ Water Quality____________________________________________________________________ 8

2.5______ Ecology_______________________________________________________________________ 11

2.6______ Landscape and Visual____________________________________________________________ 11

3.1______ Impact Monitoring Schedule_______________________________________________________ 14

3.2______ Results of Impact Monitoring_______________________________________________________ 14

4.1______ Monitoring of Birds______________________________________________________________ 20

4.2______ Monitoring of Herpetofauna________________________________________________________ 21

4.3______ Monitoring of Dragonflies and Butterflies______________________________________________ 21

4.4______ Monitoring of Mammals___________________________________________________________ 21

4.5______ Monitoring of Water Quality________________________________________________________ 21

4.6______ Management Activities___________________________________________________________ 21

4.7______ Summary_____________________________________________________________________ 22

5.1______ Site Inspections_________________________________________________________________ 23

5.2______ Construction Phase Audit Summary_________________________________________________ 23

6.1______ Site Inspection__________________________________________________________________ 26

6.2______ Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status___________________________________________ 26

6.3______ Status of Environmental Licences and Permits_________________________________________ 27

6.4______ Recommended Mitigation Measures_________________________________________________ 27

7.1______ Record of non-compliance of Action and Limit Levels____________________________________ 28

7.2______ Record on Environmental Complaints Received________________________________________ 29

7.3______ Record on Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution__________________________ 29

7.4______ Review of Reasons for and Implications of Non-compliance, Complaints, Summons and Prosecutions 29

7.5______ Follow-up Actions Taken__________________________________________________________ 29

7.6______ Cumulative Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions_____ 30

8.1______ Site Preparatory Works and Construction Works for the Coming Month_______________________ 31

8.2______ Key Issues for the Coming Months__________________________________________________ 31

8.3______ Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Month____________________________________________ 31

8.4______ Conclusions and Recommendations_________________________________________________ 33

 

Tables

Table 1.1:__ Summary of Impact EM&A Requirements 2

Table 1.2:__ Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for the Reporting Month_ 3

Table 2.1:__ Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration_ 4

Table 2.2:__ Air Monitoring Stations 4

Table 2.3:__ TSP Monitoring Equipment 5

Table 2.4:__ Noise Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration_ 7

Table 2.5:__ Noise Monitoring Stations 7

Table 2.6:__ Noise Monitoring Equipment 7

Table 2.7:__ Water Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration_ 8

Table 2.8:__ Water Quality Monitoring Stations 8

Table 2.9:__ Water Quality Monitoring Equipment 9

Table 2.10:_ Analytical Methods applied to Water Quality Samples 9

Table 2.11:_ Detection Limits for Water Quality Determinants 10

Table 2.12:_ Summary of Construction Phase Ecological Monitoring for the Wo Shang Wai Wetland Restoration Area (WRA) 11

Table 2.13:_ Construction and Operation Phase Audit Checklist 12

Table 2.14:_ Proposed Construction Phase Mitigation Measures 13

Table 2.15:_ Proposed Operation Phase Mitigation Measures 13

Table 3.1:__ Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results 14

Table 3.2:__ Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results 15

Table 3.3:__ Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results 16

Table 3.4:__ Summary of Water Quality Monitoring Results 16

Table 4.1:__ Summary of Ecological Monitoring in WRA and Survey Area_ 22

Table 5.1:__ Construction and Operation Phase Audit Summary 23

Table 6.1:__ Summary of Site Inspections and Recommendations 26

Table 6.2:__ Status of Environmental Submissions, Licenses and Permits 27

Table 7.1:__ Summary of Exceedances in Water Quality 28

Table 7.2:__ Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution_ 30

Table 8.1:__ Tentative Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for the Next Reporting Month_ 32

 

 

Figures

Figure 1.1              General Layout Plan of the Project Site

Figure 2.1              Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Figure 2.2              Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations

Figure 2.3              Locations of Water Quality Monitoring Stations

Figure 4.1              Survey Area and Transect Walked

 

Appendices

Appendix A           Project Organization Chart

Appendix B           Tentative Construction Programme

Appendix C           Action and Limit Levels for Construction Phase

Appendix D           Event and Action Plan for Air Quality, Noise and Water Quality

Appendix E           Calibration Certificates

Appendix F           Graphical Plots of the Monitoring Results

Appendix G           Weather Conditions during the Monitoring Period

Appendix H           Ecological Monitoring Conducted

Appendix I             Summary of Bird Surveys Conducted

Appendix J            Summary of Herpetofauna, Mammal and Insect Surveys Conducted

Appendix K           Summary of Monitoring of Water Quality associated with Ecological Monitoring Conducted

Appendix L           Environmental Mitigation Measures - Implementation Status

Appendix M          Landscape and Visual Audit Photos

 

 

 

 

 

 


Executive Summary

 

 

 

 

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.

This is the 65th EM&A report submitted under the Condition 4.5 of Environmental Permit No. EP-311/2008/D. This report summarises the findings on EM&A during the period from 1 to 30 September 2015.

Exceedance of Action and Limit Levels

There was no breach of Action or Limit levels for Air Quality (1-hr TSP and 24-hr TSP) and Noise level (as Leq) in the reporting month.

During September 2015, a total of nine Action/Limit Level exceedances for Water Quality were observed. Five Action Level exceedances of pH, one  Action Level exceedance and three Limit Level exceedances of DO were observed at MP3, no exceedances were observed at MP4, MP5 and MP6

The summary of measured water quality is presented in Section 3.2.3.

Investigations have been carried out to identify the causes of exceedance. From investigation, the Contractor has implemented water quality mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA report. With external factors affecting the adjacent environments, such as rainfall conditions variations and pond fish culture activities, therefore all the recorded exceedances in Water Quality were considered not due to the project construction works.

Implementation of Mitigation Measures

Site audits were carried out on 1, 8, 16, 22 and 29 September 2015 to confirm the implementation measures undertaken by the Contractor in the reporting month. The outcomes are presented in Section 6 and the status of implementation of mitigation measures in the site is shown in Appendix L.

Record of Complaints

There was no new record of complaints received in the reporting month.

 

 


1             Introduction

 

 

 

1.1            Introduction

In March 2005, the Project Proponent, Profit Point Enterprises Limited, acquired the development site at Wo Shang Wai in Yuen Long. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was then carried out and approved under the EIA Ordinance (EIAO), and the Environmental Permit (EP-311/2008) for construction of the comprehensive development in Wo Shang Wai was first granted by EPD on 9 September 2008 and has been subsequently varied, with the current version (EP-311/2008/D) issued by EPD on 20 March 2013.

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. The site formation construction works of the Wetland Restoration Area (hereafter WRA) were completed on 15 November 2010, while the 30-month establishment period of the WRA was concluded in August 2012 – this indicated that planting works as scheduled in the approved Wetland Restoration and Creation Scheme (WRCS; Nov 2009) was complete, except along the western and southern boundary where the planting is affected by the existing site boundary and noise barrier, and for which a Variation to Environmental Permit (EP-311/2008/C) to defer planting at the location was approved. The current valid EP (EP-311/2008/D) includes specific mitigation measures to minimise certain identified noise impacts during the operation phase.

Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Ltd. (“MMHK”) has been commissioned by the Contractor, 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 two weeks after the end of the reporting month. This report summarises the findings during the period from 1 to 30 September 2015.

1.2            Project Organization

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.

1.3            Environmental Status in the reporting period

During the reporting month, construction works of the Project undertaken include:

¡  Site formation

¡  Pond drainage management in the Wetland Restoration Area (to lower the water level and remove unwanted species in the pond)

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.

1.4            Summary of EM&A Requirements

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 below:

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 Wetland Restoration Area (WRA)

WRA

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 the Reporting Month

 

 

2             Impact Monitoring Methodology

 

 

 

2.1            Introduction

For air quality, construction noise and water quality, ecology, landscape and visual monitoring methodology, including the monitoring locations, monitoring equipment used, monitoring parameters, and frequency and duration, etc, are detailed in this Chapter.

2.2            Air Quality

2.2.1        Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

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 four 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

2.2.3        Monitoring Equipment

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

Dust Trak 8520

2.2.4        Monitoring Methodology

2.2.4.1      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 two metres separation from walls, parapets and penthouse was required for rooftop sampler.

¡  A minimum of two metres 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 two-month intervals.

¡  Calibration records for HVSs are shown in Appendix E.

2.2.4.2      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            Construction Noise

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 four 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 Equipment

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

Equipment

Model

Integrating Sound Level Meter

Rion NL-52

Calibrator

Rion NC-73

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 07:00 and 19:00)

¡  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            Water Quality

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, three 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 six 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 Equipment

The Water Quality Monitoring Equipment 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 Equipment

Equipment

Model

Equipment/Serial Number

Conductivity, Dissolved oxygen, pH, Salinity and Temperature Measuring Meter

YSI Professional Plus

10D101565

Turbidity Meter

Hach 2100Q IS

13120C004242

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 Professional Plus) 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 degrees Celsius; and

¡  pH value of 0-14 with 0.1 as the base unit.

Turbidity Measurement Instrument

Portable and weatherproof turbidity meter (HACH model 2100Q IS) 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 (GPS)

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 4 ºC without being frozen), delivered to the laboratory, and analysed as soon as possible after collection. Analysis was carried out in a HOKLAS accredited laboratory.

2.4.4        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

2.4.5        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 two 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 three-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 three 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 3 m, 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 4 ºC. 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 equipment used for in-situ monitoring of water quality are attached in Appendix E.

2.5            Ecology

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 Wetland Restoration Area (WRA)

Species / Parameter

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            Landscape and Visual

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 in Table 2.14 and Table 2.15:

Table 2.14:    Proposed Construction Phase Mitigation Measures

ID No.

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

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 Measures

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 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.  Minimum 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.

3             Monitoring Results

 

 

 

3.1            Impact Monitoring Schedule

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 1, 8, 16, 22 and 29 September 2015 during the reporting month to assess the compliance with environmental requirements.

3.2            Results of Impact Monitoring

3.2.1        Air Quality Monitoring

3.2.1.1      1-hour 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. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.

Table 3.1:      Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results

Monitoring 

Start Time

1-hr TSP (mg/m3)

Range

Action Level

Limit Level

Date

 

1st Result

2nd Result

3rd Result

(mg/m3)

(mg/m3)

(mg/m3)

ASR1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

12:58

71

86

90

53 – 155

378

500

09-Sep-15

11:53

148

149

155

15-Sep-15

11:44

120

113

111

21-Sep-15

11:53

62

63

66

26-Sep-15

11:43

66

53

53

ASR2A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

08:36

32

85

85

32 – 194

357

500

09-Sep-15

11:47

177

176

194

15-Sep-15

08:23

169

173

164

21-Sep-15

08:30

57

57

60

26-Sep-15

08:22

70

59

61

ASR3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

08:22

71

98

70

69 – 188

358

500

09-Sep-15

08:26

154

153

188

15-Sep-15

08:17

176

171

167

21-Sep-15

08:21

71

76

77

26-Sep-15

08:17

70

69

70

ASR4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

11:52

70

104

105

62 - 194

372

500

09-Sep-15

11:47

177

176

194

15-Sep-15

11:39

187

185

183

21-Sep-15

11:42

85

94

96

26-Sep-15

11:38

67

62

62

3.2.1.2      24-hour 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. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.

Table 3.2:      Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results

Monitoring Date

Monitoring Results (mg/m3)

Range (mg/m3)

Action Level (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

ASR1

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

73

69 – 84

226

260

09-Sep-15

69

15-Sep-15

75

21-Sep-15

69

26-Sep-15

84

ASR2A

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

65

65 – 69

213

260

09-Sep-15

66

15-Sep-15

67

21-Sep-15

69

26-Sep-15

69

ASR3

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

78

76 – 79

205

260

09-Sep-15

77

15-Sep-15

79

21-Sep-15

76

26-Sep-15

77

ASR4

 

 

 

 

05-Sep-15

83

67 – 83

237

260

09-Sep-15

67

15-Sep-15

81

21-Sep-15

74

26-Sep-15

83

No exceedance of 1-hour and 24-hour TSP (Action or Limit Level) was recorded in the reporting period.

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. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.

Table 3.3:      Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results

Monitoring Date

Start Time

Mean and Range of Noise Levels, dB(A)

Limit Level for Leq (dB)

 

 

Leq

L10

L90

 

NSR1

 

 

 

 

 

09-Sep-15

11:09

50

51

44

>75

15-Sep-15

10:55

51

54

50

21-Sep-15

13:45

57

59

56

NSR3

 

 

 

 

 

09-Sep-15

10:26

50

53

42

>75

15-Sep-15

10:18

55

58

48

21-Sep-15

13:00

59

59

59

NSR5

 

 

 

 

 

09-Sep-15

09:00

57

57

43

>75

15-Sep-15

08:47

54

56

50

21-Sep-15

10:42

58

59

58

NSR7

 

 

 

 

 

09-Sep-15

09:41

50

52

49

>75

15-Sep-15

09:33

58

62

48

21-Sep-15

10:00

60

61

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. The weather conditions in the reporting period are provided in Appendix G.

Table 3.4:      Summary of Water Quality Monitoring Results

Monitoring Date

Temp (ºC)

pH

Dissolved Oxygen (DO) (mg/L)

DO (%)

Turbidity (NT)

BOD (mg/L) (1)

Suspended Solids (mg/L)

MP3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

02/09/2015

29.4

7.5

6.5

84.3

18.5

4

13.5

04/09/2015

28.9

7.5

6.6

86.5

12.3

3.5

9.5

07/09/2015

28.8

7.5

7.0

90.1

22.2

6.5

19.5

09/09/2015

30.1

7.5

6.5

87.5

23.2

7

17.5

11/09/2015

28.1

7.6

7.1

90.4

35.1

9

25.5

14/09/2015

27.9

7.6

7.1

90.2

27.7

7.5

21

16/09/2015

28.1

7.5

7.4

94.4

33.1

4

26.5

18/09/2015

27.9

7.5

6.9

87.0

24.3

8

15.5

21/09/2015

27.7

7.6

7.6

96.1

35.5

3.5

23

23/09/2015

28.6

7.6

7.4

96.1

37.9

7

29

25/09/2015

29.4

7.6

7.2

94.3

26.6

7

18.5

29/09/2015

28.8

7.5

7.2

94.9

14.9

<2

9

30/09/2015

28.1

7.5

6.8

84.2

43.1

8

34.5

Action Level

-

<5.5 or >7.5

<6.85

-

>64

-

>65

Limit Level

-

<4.0 or >8.0

<6.65

-

>67

-

>66

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MP4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

02/09/2015

29.1

7.4

6.9

90.0

15.5

2.5

17.5

04/09/2015

29.5

7.4

7.0

92.2

38.2

13.5

39.5

07/09/2015

28.7

7.4

6.4

82.7

32.9

2.5

27

09/09/2015

30.8

7.4

6.4

86.3

39.8

<2

33.5

11/09/2015

28.5

7.4

6.4

83.1

39.6

<2

37.5

14/09/2015

28.3

7.4

6.7

86.2

16.2

3

13

16/09/2015

28.5

7.4

6.4

83.2

29.1

2

23

18/09/2015

28.4

7.4

7.0

89.5

17.2

<2

12

21/09/2015

27.9

7.5

6.8

86.7

24.4

<2

14.5

23/09/2015

28.1

7.5

7.0

89.9

22.7

<2

17

25/09/2015

28.9

7.5

7.0

91.3

18.4

<2

17.5

29/09/2015

28.1

7.4

7.0

88.1

8.9

<2

2

30/09/2015

27.8

7.4

7.3

82.3

27.2

2.5

22.5

Action Level

-

<5.5 or >7.5

<3.91

-

>60

-

>50

Limit Level

-

<4.0 or >8.0

<3.82

-

>64

-

>53

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MP5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

02/09/2015

29.7

7.4

7.2

94.5

15.8

2.5

13.5

04/09/2015

29.7

7.4

6.5

86.0

22.1

4

18

07/09/2015

28.8

7.4

6.6

86.2

27.1

6

28

09/09/2015

30.5

7.4

6.8

91.2

23.3

5

23

11/09/2015

28.0

7.4

7.0

90.3

36.5

6

23.5

14/09/2015

28.5

7.5

6.5

83.6

23.3

6

16.5

16/09/2015

28.4

7.4

6.7

86.5

29.1

4

26

18/09/2015

28.8

7.4

7.3

94.2

21.1

5.5

15.5

21/09/2015

27.6

7.5

7.2

91.8

38.6

5

26.5

23/09/2015

28.4

7.5

7.3

94.0

31.7

5

25

25/09/2015

28.1

7.5

6.9

88.1

22.4

4.5

15.5

29/09/2015

28.5

7.4

7.0

89.3

10.1

<2

<2

30/09/2015

28.2

7.4

6.7

89.8

39.1

6

31

Action Level

-

<5.5 or >7.5

<4.13

-

>81

-

>66

Limit Level

-

<4.0 or >8.0

<3.87

-

>84

-

>69

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MP6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

02/09/2015

29.5

7.4

6.0

79.8

16.0

2

15.5

04/09/2015

30.0

7.4

6.9

91.2

20.5

3

17

07/09/2015

28.6

7.4

6.6

85.7

21.2

5

21.5

09/09/2015

30.4

7.4

7.0

93.4

33.1

5

25.5

11/09/2015

28.3

7.4

7.1

91.7

28.5

4

24.5

14/09/2015

28.1

7.5

6.6

84.6

21.4

5

17.5

16/09/2015

28.2

7.4

6.5

84.3

30.9

4

25

18/09/2015

28.6

7.4

7.0

90.7

20.3

3

23.5

21/09/2015

27.4

7.5

6.7

84.5

41.5

4.5

33.5

23/09/2015

28.5

7.5

6.2

80.3

35.6

6

26

25/09/2015

28.5

7.5

6.4

82.7

17.3

4

13

29/09/2015

29.0

7.4

6.6

85.2

9.4

<2

<2

30/09/2015

27.5

7.4

6.7

84.1

35.3

5.5

26

Action Level

-

<5.5 or >7.5

<4.61

-

>94

-

>75

Limit Level

-

<4.0 or >8.0

<4.52

-

>96

-

>75

Notes:

(1)           “<2 “ : Value is too low to indicate (<2mg/L).

(2)           Values Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.

(3)           Values Underlined and Bold indicate Limit Level exceedance.

3.2.3.1      Exceedance Investigation and Findings

During September 2015, a total of nine Action/Limit Level exceedances for Water Quality were observed. Five Action Level exceedances of pH, one  Action Level exceedance and three Limit Level exceedances of DO were observed at MP3; no exceedances were observed at MP4, MP5 and MP6.   

The Event and Action Plan in Appendix D was followed under these cases of exceedances.

Based on the recent site observations carried out by ET, the Contractor implemented the following water quality mitigation measures as recommended in EIA report which include:

Temporary drainage channels were provided to collect the surface runoff generated within the project site.

Installation of barrier at the drainage channels to intercept site runoff and pump the wastewater to the sedimentation tanks as primary treatment prior to treatment by wastewater treatment facilities (AquaSed), which will ensure all site runoff is treated to satisfactory quality before discharging into the northern ditches.

Exceedance of pH and DO at MP3

During the reporting month at MP3, exceedances of the Action Level of pH were observed on five monitoring dates and exceedance of the Action / Limit Level of DO was observed on four monitoring dates. 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 exceedance(s) were not considered to be related to the construction activities. The exceedance(s) of pH and DO may be due to external factors such as pond fish culture activities which were out of the control of the project.

Conclusion

As a result, the abovementioned exceedance(s) were unlikely to be due to the construction works and therefore not considered to be related to the project.

 

 

4             Ecological Monitoring

 

 

 

4.1            Monitoring of Birds

This report documents surveys conducted in the Survey Area between 1 and 30 September 2015. The Wetland Restoration Area (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 were identified to species and all bird species of conservation importance and/or wetland dependent were enumerated and recorded to the habitats in which they were observed. Flying birds were not recorded unless they were foraging and/or 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 33 bird species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA), 15 of which were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence. Within the WRA, 33 bird species were recorded, 18 of which were species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependent species, including two of the target species (i.e. Little Egret and Chinese Pond Heron. The WRA continues to attract a number of species of conservation importance, including Yellow Bittern, Ixobrychus sinensis, White-throated Kingfisher, Halcyon smyrnensis, Grey Heron, Ardea cinerea, Black Kite, Milvus migrans, Intermediate Egret, Egretta intermedia, Black-winged Kite, Elanus caeruleus, Black-winged Stilt, Himantopus himantopus, Thick-billed Warbler, Iduna aedon and White-cheeked Starling, Spodiopsar cineraceus . Yellow Bittern, White-throated Kingfisher, Thick-billed Warbler and Black-winged Kite are listed by Fellowes et al. as of “Local  Concern” in 2002. Black Kite, Intermediate Egret and Black-winged Stilt are listed by Fellowes et al. as of “Regional Concern” in 2002. Grey Heron and White-cheeked Starling are listed by Fellowes et al. as of “Potential Regional Concern” in 2002.. 

In addition to wetland-dependence birds, the WRA also attracts a number of terrestrial birds including Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis and Black-winged Kite which are listed as vulnerable (VU) in the China Red Data Book and it is protected under terrestrial wildlife state protection (category II). Survey findings indicate that the WRA not only provides important habitat for wetland-dependence birds but also the terrestrial birds.

A summary of survey data is provided in Appendix I.

4.2            Monitoring of Herpetofauna

One day time herpetofauna survey was conducted in the reporting month. No amphibian species and no reptile species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) in regular survey. No amphibian species and no reptile species was recorded within the WRA in regular survey. One amphibian species was recorded within the WRA during additional search. A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.

4.3            Monitoring of Dragonflies and Butterflies

Odonata (including dragonfly) and butterfly surveys were conducted on a monthly basis during the reporting month in accordance with the EM&A Manual. No odonata species and no butterfly species were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA).  Within the WRA, four odonata species were recorded, while one butterfly species was recorded.

A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.

4.4            Monitoring of Mammals

Monitoring of mammals was conducted concurrently with other surveys. No mammals were recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) nor within the WRA during regular survey. One unidentified bat species was observed within the WRA in additional night search.

A summary of the survey findings is provided in Appendix J.

4.5            Monitoring of Water Quality

No water quality issue was recorded during the reporting period. Monitoring data are presented in Appendix K.

4.6            Management Activities

4.6.1        Vegetation Management

Removal of exotic vegetation in all cells was undertaken; these included but not limited to Ipomoes sp., Mikania sp., Mimosa sp., Pennisetum sp. and Typha sp..

Vegetation management activities undertaken at the site primarily involved watering of plants, weeding and grass cutting.

4.6.2        Wildlife Management

Removal of Golden Apple Snail was undertaken on an “as-seen” basis.

All sighted Red Fire Ant nests were treated with approved pesticide.

4.7            Summary

Ecological monitoring during September 2015 was carried out according to the survey methodology and frequency outlined in the EM&A Manual.

Summary of survey findings is listed in Table 4.1 below:

Table 4.1:      Summary of Ecological Monitoring in WRA and Survey Area

Species

Survey Area (excluding WRA)

WRA

Birds (total)

33

33

Birds (of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence)

15

18

Amphibians

0

1

Reptiles

0

0

Mammals

0

1

Odonates

0

4

Butterflies

0

1

Survey findings indicate that the ponds within the Survey Area supported numbers and diversity of wetland-dependent birds typical of fish pond areas.  The WRA continues to attract wetland dependent fauna and serves as a buffer between the residential portion and the fishponds in the north.

 

5             Landscape and Visual

 

 

 

5.1            Site Inspections

The EM&A programme for Landscape and Visual impact due to the construction commenced in June 2010 and continued during the reporting period. Site inspections on Landscape and Visual impact were carried out on 14 and 29 September 2015 to confirm the implementation of mitigation measures at construction stage.

5.2            Construction Phase Audit Summary

The audit was undertaken with references to the specific checklists provided in Table 2.132.15 and audit results are summarized below in Table 5.1. Representative photos showing the implementation of mitigation measures are presented in Appendix M.

Table 5.1:      Construction and Operation Phase Audit Summary

Area of Works

Items of 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. (Appendix M Photo 1 –  Table 2.14 CM2 refers)

No construction works were observed to have exceeded the site boundaries.  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, have been identified and protected by temporary protective fencing.

Streams

The works site is partly encircled by a berm / perimeter channel 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 ponds have been 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 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. (Appendix M Photo 1 –  Table 2.14 CM2 refers)

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. (Appendix M Photo 3 –  Table 2.14 CM6 refers)

Night-time lighting

No night-time works were reported to have been carried out during the monitoring period.

Landscape and wetland treatments generally

Continuous belt of screen planting along the southern and western boundaries of the site has been completed.  The formation, soiling and water control structures of the wetland restoration area have been completed. (Appendix M Photo 3 –  Table 2.14 CM6 refers)

The wetland areas are being established, with the ponds are being seasonally filled with rain water.  Planting of areas around the WRA cells is complete.  No construction was carried out at the wetland restoration area after 15 November 2010. (Appendix M Photo 2 –  Table 2.14 CM2 refers)

Soiling, etc.

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 in the Advance Planting Strip and in the WRA are all commonly available species and came from commercial sources. 

Transplanted reeds (Phragmites australis) at the wetland habitat came from the temporary holding nursery onsite.

Planting

The tree species are all from the approved list. 

One tree was identified as dead in previous month or having defects (i.e. extensive bark damage, cavities, fungal growths, etc.) still need to be replaced with new specimens. Some of the recently planted trees are still in poor condition, but are showing small signs of graduate improvement.

Seedling trees and shrubs, have been established at the margins of the wetland cells. Some additional fill-in planting has been undertaken.

Establishment Works

The advance planting, the compensatory planting and transplanted trees are generally being maintained by the landscape sub-contractor in accordance with the specification to ensure that the contract requirements are met, although treatment of damaged / defective trees needs urgent attention.

One tree was identified as dead in previous month still need to be replaced with new specimens. Trees with significant defects (i.e. extensive bark damage, cavities, fungal growths, etc.) need to be replaced with new specimens.

Most overhanging trees from adjacent property that were affecting the strip planting have been pruned back.

Many trees are growing (and have become dependent for support) on the noise barrier frame, and are being deformed and damaged. Trees should either be physically separated from the structure, or the structure modified to avoid impacting on trees.

Pruning of tall shrubs (e.g. Ligustrum sinensis) needs to be undertaken regularly.

Removal of extensive growth of weeds and invasive climbers in the space behind screen noise barrier needs to be undertaken on a monthly basis as they may be inhibiting the advance planting. Climbers were still found on shrub plantings (i.e. Mikania micranth) and railing, and should be cleared immediately.

Phragmites australis reeds are now occupying at least 80% of the reed bed areas within the WRC (as per design), but have also spread to the non-reed bed areas and are out-competing the intended planting. Management of this vegetation is required if the intended planting design is to be achieved.

Regular horticultural maintenance (grass cutting, weeding, watering etc.) in the shrubs and tree seedling areas around the WRA cells is being undertaken. A comprehensive tree survey has just been undertaken by the new landscape contractor.

The growth of shrubs / seedlings on the north side of WRA1 remains fair.

 

6             Environmental Site Inspection and Audit

 

 

 

6.1            Site Inspection

The ET had carried out construction phase weekly site inspections on 1, 8, 16, 22 and 29 September 2015. 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)

The warning sign used for the storage area of chemical wastes was not displaced with a label in accordance with the Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes.  (16 September 2015)

To ensure that the warning signe complies accordingly.

Agreed and followed up

22 September 2015

General refuse on the ground was observed. (22 September 2015)

To clean up the refuse.

Agreed and followed up

29 September 2015

Stagnant water pond was observed. (22 September 2015)

To clear the stagnant water accordingly.

Agreed and followed up

29 September 2015

6.2            Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status

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, no C&D material was generated on site during the period. 1 kg of metals was generated and collected by registered recycling collector. 2 kg of paper/cardboard packing and 1 kg of plastic were generated on site and collected by registered recycling collector. No chemical waste was generated and collected by licensed chemical waste collector. 1 kg of other types of wastes (e.g. general refuse) was generated on site and disposed of at public landfill facility.

The Contractor is advised to maintain on site waste sorting and recording system and maximize reuse / recycling of C&D wastes.

6.3            Status of Environmental Licences and Permits

The environmental permits, licenses, and/or notifications on environmental protection for this Project which were valid during the reporting 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-311/2008/D

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

6.4            Recommended Mitigation Measures

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 L. In particular, the following mitigation measures were brought to attention during the site audits.

 

Waste Management

¡  The chemical waste storage area should be clearly labelled.

¡  General refuse should be stored in enclosed bins or compaction units separate from C&D and chemical wastes.

 

 

 

7             Report on Non-compliance, Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

 

 

 

 

7.1            Record of non-compliance of Action and Limit Levels

There was no breach of Action or Limit Levels for Air Quality and Noise monitoring in the reporting month.

During September 2015, a total of nine Action/Limit Level exceedances for Water Quality were observed. Five Action Level exceedances of pH, one Action Level exceedance and three Limit Level exceedances of DO were observed at MP3; no exceedances were observed at MP4, MP5 and MP6.     

A summary is presented in Table 7.1 below.

Table 7.1:      Summary of Exceedances in Water Quality

Monitoring Date

pH

Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

 (mg/L)

Turbidity

(NT)

Suspended Solids

(mg/L)

MP3

 

 

 

 

02/09/2015

7.5

6.5

18.5

13.5

04/09/2015

7.5

6.6

12.3

9.5

07/09/2015

7.5

7.0

22.2

19.5

09/09/2015

7.5

6.5

23.2

17.5

11/09/2015

7.6

7.1

35.1

25.5

14/09/2015

7.6

7.1

27.7

21

16/09/2015

7.5

7.4

33.1

26.5

18/09/2015

7.5

6.9

24.3

15.5

21/09/2015

7.6

7.6

35.5

23

23/09/2015

7.6

7.4

37.9

29

25/09/2015

7.6

7.2

26.6

18.5

29/09/2015

7.5

7.2

14.9

9

30/09/2015

7.5

6.8

43.1

34.5

Action Level

<5.5 or >7.5

<6.85

>64

>65

Limit Level

<4.0 or >8.0

<6.65

>67

>66

Notes:

(1)           “<2 “ : Value is too low to indicate (<2mg/L).

(2)           Values Bold indicate Action Level exceedance.

(3)           Values Underlined and Bold indicate Limit Level exceedance.

7.2            Record on Environmental Complaints Received

No environmental complaint was received during the reporting month.

7.3            Record on Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution

No notifications of summons or successful prosecution were received the reporting month.

7.4            Review of Reasons for and Implications of Non-compliance, Complaints, Summons and Prosecutions

Non-compliance

Investigations have been carried out to identify the causes of the water quality exceedances.

From investigation, construction activities during the period of exceedance included mainly site formation as well as pond drainage management in the Wetland Restoration Area (to lower the water level and remove unwanted species in the pond).

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 of pH at MP3 were not considered to be related to the construction activities.

As a result, the abovementioned exceedance(s) were unlikely to be due to the project construction works and therefore not considered to be related to the project.

Complaints, Summons and Prosecutions

Not applicable for this reporting month.

7.5            Follow-up Actions Taken

Non-compliance

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.

Complaints, Summons and Prosecutions

Not applicable for this reporting month.

7.6            Cumulative Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

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 Table 7.2 below.

Table 7.2:      Statistics for Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecution

Reporting Period

Cumulative Statistics

 

Complaints

Notifications of Summons

Successful Prosecutions

This reporting month (September 2015)

0

0

0

From 12 May 2010 to end of the reporting month (September 2015)

8

0

0

 

 

8             Future Key Issues

 

 

 

8.1            Site Preparatory Works and Construction Works for the Coming Month

The major site works to be commissioned in the coming month include:

¡  Site formation

¡  Pond drainage management (to lower the water level and remove unwanted species in the pond)

8.2            Key Issues for the Coming Months

Key issues to be considered in the coming three months include:

¡  Generation of dust from activities on-site and the haul road during dry weather conditions;

¡  Provision of wheel washing facilities at vehicle exit point;

¡  Generation and treatment of site surface runoffs and wastewater from activities on-site and during wet weather conditions;

¡  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 system.

8.3            Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Month

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 October 2015 is shown in the Table 8.1. 


 

Table 8.1:      Tentative Environmental Monitoring and Audit Schedule for the Next Reporting Month

 

 

8.4            Conclusions and Recommendations

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, turbidity and SS) under monitoring have been checked against established Action and Limit levels.

There was no breach of Action or Limit levels for Air Quality (1-hr TSP and 24-hr TSP) and Noise level (as Leq) in the reporting month.

During September 2015, a total of nine Action/Limit Level exceedances for Water Quality were observed. Five Action Level exceedances of pH, one  Action Level exceedance and three Limit Level exceedances of DO were observed at MP3, no exceedances were observed at MP4, MP5 and MP6.

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;

¡  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

¡  Effluent should be discharged in accordance with the discharge licence conditions;

¡  Soil contaminated with chemicals/oils should be removed from site and the voids should be created filled with suitable materials; 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;

¡  C&D waste should be segregated and stored in different containers to other wastes to encourage the re-use or recycling of materials and their proper 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; and

¡  Oil stains on soil should be cleared by disposal of contaminated soil.

 

 


Appendix A.   Project Organization Chart

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Information:

Company

Position

Name

Phone Number

Profit Point Enterprises Limited (Project Proponent)

Project Manager

Mr. Kelvin LAU

2908 8114

Heng Shung Construction Co. Ltd.

Assistant Construction Manager

Ms. Lynne HUNG

2908 2391

(The Contractor)

Site Agent

Mr. LEUNG Hin Keung

9405 5626

 

Environmental Officer

Mr. Steve NG

9869 4005

Ramboll Environ Hong Kong Limited       (Independent Environmental Checker (IEC))

Independent Environmental Checker

Mr. David YEUNG

3743 0788

Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Ltd. (Environmental Team (ET))

Environmental Team Leader

Mr. Terence KONG

2828 5919

 

Appendix B.  Tentative Construction Programme

 

 

 

 

Appendix C.  Action and Limit Levels for Construction Phase

 

 

 

Air Quality

Action and Limit Levels for 24-hour TSP

Monitoring Station

Action Level (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

ASR1

226

260

ASR2A

213

260

ASR3

205

260

ASR4

237

260

Action and Limit Levels for 1-hour TSP

Monitoring Station

Action Level (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

ASR1

378

500

ASR2A

357

500

ASR3

358

500

ASR4

372

500

Noise

Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise

Time Period

Action Level

Limit Level

NSR1, NSR3, NSR5, NSR7

 

 

0700 – 1900 hours on normal weekdays

When one documented complaint is received from any one of the sensitive receivers

75 dB(A)

Water Quality

Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Monitoring Location

DO (mg/L)

Turbidity (NTU)

SS (mg/L)

pH

 

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

MP1

1.23

1.17

173

177

231

299

< 5.5 or > 7.5

< 4.0 or > 8.0

MP2

1.04

0.89

132

163

170

209

MP3

6.85

6.65

64

67

65

66

MP4

3.91

3.82

60

64

50

53

MP5

4.13

3.87

81

84

66

69

MP6

4.61

4.52

94

96

75

75

 

 

 

Appendix D.   Event and Action Plan for Air Quality, Noise, Water Quality, Ecology and Landscape & Visual

 

 

 

 

 

 

Air Quality         

Event

Action

 

 

 

 

ET Leader

IEC

ER

Contractor

Action Level

 

 

 

 

1.    Exceedance for one sample

1.  Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures.

2.  Inform IEC and ER.

3.  Repeat measurement to confirm finding.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

1.  Check monitoring data submitted by ET.

2.  Check Contractor’s working method.

1.  Notify Contractor.

1.  Rectify any unacceptable practice.

2.  Amend working methods if appropriate.

2.    Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1.  Identify the source.

2.  Inform IEC and ER.

3.  Advise ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures

4.  Repeat measurements to confirm findings.

5.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

6.  Discuss with IEC and the Contractor on remedial actions required.

7.  If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with IEC and ER.

8.  If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.  Check monitoring data submitted by ET.

2.  Check the Contractor’s working method.

3.  Discuss with ET Leader and the Contractor on possible remedial measures.

4.  Advise ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures.

5.  Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

1.  Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing.

2.  Notify the Contractor.

3.  Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

1.  Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification.

2.  Implement the agreed proposals.

3.  Amend proposal if appropriate.

Limit Level

 

 

 

 

1.    Exceedance for one sample

1.  Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures.

2.  Inform ER and EPD.

3.  Repeat measurement to confirm finding.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

5.  Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results.

1.  Check monitoring data submitted by ET.

2.  Check the Contractor’s working method.

3.  Discuss with ET Leader and the Contractor on possible remedial measures.

4.  Advise ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures.

5.  Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

1.  Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing.

2.  Notify the Contractor.

3.  Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

1.  Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance.

2.  Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification.

3.  Implement the agreed proposals.

4.  Amend proposal if appropriate.

2.    Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1.  Notify IEC, ER, EPD and the Contractor.

2.  Identify the source.

3.  Repeat measurements to confirm findings.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

5.  Carry out analysis of the Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented.

6.  Arrange meeting IEC and ER to discuss the remedial actions to be taken.

7.  Assess effectiveness of the Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results.

8.  If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.  Discuss amongst ER, ET Leader and the Contractor on the potential remedial actions.

2.  Review the Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary and advise ER accordingly.

3.  Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1.  Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing.

2.  Notify the Contractor.

3.  In consultation with IEC, agree with the remedial measures to be implemented.

4.  Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

5.  If exceedance continues, consider what activity of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that activity of work until the exceedance is abated.

1.  Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance.

2.  Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification.

3.  Implement the agreed proposals.

4.  Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control.

5.  Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by ER until the exceedance is abated.

Construction Noise       

Event

Action

 

 

 

 

ET Leader

IEC

ER

Contractor

Action Level

1.  Notify IEC and the Contractor.

2.  Carry out investigation.

3.  Report the results of investigation to IEC and the Contractor.

4.  Discuss with the Contractor and formulate remedial measures.

5.  Increase monitoring frequency to check mitigation measures.

1.  Review with analysed results submitted by ET.

2.  Review the proposed remedial measures by the Contractor and advise ER accordingly.

3.  Supervise the implement of remedial measures.

1.  Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing.

2.  Notify the Contractor.

3.  Require the Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem.

4.  Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

1.  Submit noise mitigation proposals to IEC.

2.  Implement noise mitigation proposals.

Limit Level

1.  Identify the source.

2.  Notify IEC, ER, EPD and the Contractor.

3.  Repeat measurement to confirm findings.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency.

5.  Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented.

6.  Inform IEC, ER, and EPD the causes & actions taken for the exceedances.

7.  Assess effectiveness of the Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results.

8.  If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.  Discuss amongst ER, ET Leader and the Contractor on the potential remedial actions.

2.  Review the Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise ER accordingly.

3.  Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1.  Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing.

2.  Notify the Contractor.

3.  Require the Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem.

4.  Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

5.  If exceedance continues, consider what activity of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that activity of work until the exceedance is abated.

1.  Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance.

2.  Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification.

3.  Implement the agreed proposals.

4.  Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control.

5.  Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance is abated.

Water Quality

Event

Action

 

 

 

 

ET Leader

IEC

ER

Contractor

Action Level

 

 

 

 

1.    Exceedance for one sample

1.   Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm finding;

2.   Identify source(s) of impact;

3.   Inform IEC and Contractor;

4.   Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods;

5.   Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor; and

6.   Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance.

1.   Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation measures;

2.   Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and

3.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

1.   Discuss with IEC on the proposed mitigation measures; and

2.   Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented.

 

1.   Inform the ER and confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing;

2.   Rectify unacceptable practice;

3.   Check all plant and equipment;

4.   Consider changes of working methods;

5.   Discuss with ET and IEC and propose mitigation measures to IEC and ER; and

6.   Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

2.    Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1.   Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm finding;

2.   Identify source(s) of impact;

3.   Inform IEC and Contractor;

4.   Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods;

5.   Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor;

6.   Ensure mitigation measures are implemented;

7.   Prepare to increase the monitoring frequency to daily; and

8.   Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance.

1.   Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation measures;

2.   Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and

3.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

1.   Discuss with IEC on the proposed mitigation measures;

2.   Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented; and

3.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

1.   Inform the Engineer and confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing;

2.   Rectify unacceptable practice;

3.   Check all plant and equipment;

4.   Consider changes of working methods;

5.   Discuss with ET and IEC and propose mitigation measures to IEC and ER within 3 working days; and

6.   Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

Limit Level

 

 

 

 

1.    Exceedance for one sample

1.   Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm finding;

2.   Identify source(s) of impact;

3.   Inform IEC, Contractor and EPD;

4.   Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods;

5.   Discuss mitigation measures with IEC, ER and Contractor;

6.   Ensure mitigation measures are implemented; and

7.   Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Limit level.

1.   Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation measures;

2.   Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and

3.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

1.   Discuss with IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures; and

2.   Request Contractor to critically review the working methods;

3.   Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented; and

4.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

1.   Inform the Engineer and confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing;

2.   Rectify unacceptable practice;

3.   Check all plant and equipment;

4.   Consider changes of working methods;

5.   Discuss with ET and IEC and ER and propose mitigation measures to IEC and ER within 3 working days; and

6.   Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

2.    Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1.   Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm finding;

2.   Identify source(s) of impact;

3.   Inform IEC, Contractor and EPD;

4.   Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods;

5.   Discuss mitigation measures with IEC, ER and Contractor;

6.   Ensure mitigation measures are implemented; and

7.   Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Limit level for two consecutive days.

1.   Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation measures;

2.   Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and

3.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

 

1.   Discuss with IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures; and

2.   Request Contractor to critically review the working methods;

3.   Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

4.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures; and

5.   Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contractor to slow down or to stop all or part of the marine work until no exceedance of Limit Level.

1.   Inform the ER and confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing;

2.   Rectify unacceptable practice;

3.   Check all plant and equipment;

4.   Consider changes of working methods;

5.   Discuss with ET and IEC and ER and propose mitigation measures to IEC and ER within 3 working days;

6.   Implement the agreed mitigation measures; and

7.   As directed by the Engineer, to slow down or to stop all or part of the marine work or construction activities.

 

Appendix E.   Calibration Certificates

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix F.    Graphical Plots of the Monitoring Results

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix G.   Weather Conditions during the Monitoring Period

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix H.   Ecological Monitoring conducted

 

 

 

 

 

September 2015

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

Mammals

ü

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

Birds

ü

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

Herpetofauna

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

Dragonflies & butterflies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

Water Quality

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspection Visits

ü

 

 

ü

 

 

 

ü

 

 

ü

 

 

 

ü

 

September 2015

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Mammals

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

 

Birds

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

 

 

 

 

 

 

ü

 

Herpetofauna

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dragonflies & butterflies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Water Quality

 

 

 

 

 

ü

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inspection Visits

 

 

ü

 

 

 

ü

 

 

ü

 

 

 

ü

 

Note:      

1. Light grey cells indicate public holidays, Saturdays or Sundays.

.

 

 

Appendix I.     Summary of Bird Surveys conducted

 

 

 

Table I1:      Summary of bird species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA)

Species Name(4)

Scientific Name(4)

Wetland Dependence

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015

Occurrence(2)

September 2015

Mean(3)

Records outside surveys

Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis

Y

LC

5

12.6

ü

Grey Heron

Ardea cinerea

Y

PRC

3

1.8

ü

Great Egret

Ardea alba

Y

PRC, (RC)

5

6.8

ü

Little Egret

Egretta garzetta

Y

PRC, (RC)

5

18.4

ü

Eastern Cattle Egret

Bubulcus coromandus

Y

LC

2

1.2

 

Chinese Pond Heron

Ardeola bacchus

Y

PRC, (RC)

5

18.2

ü

Black-crowned Night Heron

Nycticorax nycticorax

Y

(LC)

2

0.4

 

Yellow Bittern

Ixobrychus sinensis

Y

LC

-

-

ü

White-breasted Waterhen

Amaurornis phoenicurus

Y

-

2

0.8

ü

Common Sandpiper

Actitis hypoleucos

Y

-

2

0.6

ü

Pied Kingfisher

Ceryle rudis

Y

(LC)

3

1.6

 

White-throated Kingfisher

Halcyon smyrnensis

Y

LC

1

0.2

 

Common Kingfisher

Alcedo atthis

Y

-

5

3.0

ü

White Wagtail

Motacilla alba

Y

-

3

1.4

ü

Collared Crow

Corvus torquatus

Y

LC

3

0.6

ü

 

 

 

No. of species recorded:

15

 

 

Note:      

(1)   Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002) and BirdLife International listing (2011)

(2)   Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3)   Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period (excluding the WRA).

(4)   Follows HK bird list (dated 2015-4-20).

Table I2:      Summary of bird species of conservation importance and/or wetland-dependence recorded in the WRA

Species Name(4)

Scientific Name(4)

Wetland Dependence

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015

Occurrence(2)

September 2015

Mean(3)

Records outside surveys

Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis

Y

LC

4

1.0

ü

Grey Heron

Ardea cinerea

Y

PRC

2

0.4

ü

Great Egret

Ardea alba

Y

PRC, (RC)

4

1.8

 

Intermediate Egret

Egretta intermedia

Y

RC

-

-

ü

Little Egret

Egretta garzetta

Y

PRC, (RC)

4

2.0

ü

Chinese Pond Heron

Ardeola bacchus

Y

PRC, (RC)

3

2.8

ü

Yellow Bittern

Ixobrychus sinensis

Y

LC

3

0.6

ü

Black-winged Kite

Elanus caeruleus

Y

LC

-

-

ü

Black Kite

Milvus migrans

Y

RC

1

0.2

ü

White-breasted Waterhen

Amaurornis phoenicurus

Y

-

1

0.2

 

Black-winged Stilt

Himantopus himantopus

Y

(RC)

-

-

ü

Common Sandpiper

Actitis hypoleucos

Y

-

5

1.2

ü

White-throated Kingfisher

Halcyon smyrnensis

Y

LC

1

0.2

 

Common Kingfisher

Alcedo atthis

Y

-

3

0.6

ü

White Wagtail

Motacilla alba

Y

-

1

0.4

ü

Thick-billed Warbler

Iduna aedon

Y

LC

-

-

ü

White-cheeked Starling

Spodiopsar cineraceus

N

PRC

1

0.2

 

Collared Crow

Corvus torquatus

Y

LC

3

0.6

ü

 

 

 

No. of species recorded:

18

 

 

Note:      

(1)   Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002) and BirdLife International listing (2011)

(2)   Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3)   Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period (excluding the WRA).

(4)   Follows HK bird list (dated 2015-4-20).

Table I3:      Summary of bird species recorded in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA) during the reporting month

Species Name(2)

Scientific Name(2)

Wetland Dependence

Conservation Status(1)

Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis

Y

LC

Grey Heron

Ardea cinerea

Y

PRC

Great Egret

Ardea alba

Y

PRC, (RC)

Little Egret

Egretta garzetta

Y

PRC, (RC)

Eastern Cattle Egret

Bubulcus coromandus

Y

LC

Chinese Pond Heron

Ardeola bacchus

Y

PRC, (RC)

Black-crowned Night Heron

Nycticorax nycticorax

Y

(LC)

Yellow Bittern

Ixobrychus sinensis

Y

LC

White-breasted Waterhen

Amaurornis phoenicurus

Y

-

Common Sandpiper

Actitis hypoleucos

Y

-

Spotted Dove

Spilopelia chinensis

N

-

Eurasian Collared Dove

Streptopelia decaocto

N

-

#Greater Coucal

Centropus sinensis

N

-

#Lesser Coucal

Centropus bengalensis

N

-

Pied Kingfisher

Ceryle rudis

Y

(LC)

White-throated Kingfisher

Halcyon smyrnensis

Y

LC

Common Kingfisher

Alcedo atthis

Y

-

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

N

-

White Wagtail

Motacilla alba

Y

-

Red-whiskered Bulbul

Pycnonotus jocosus

N

-

Chinese Bulbul

Pycnonotus sinensis

N

-

Long-tailed Shrike

Lanius schach

N

-

Oriental Magpie Robin

Copsychus saularis

N

-

Plain Prinia

Prinia inornata

N

-

Scaly-breasted Munia

Lonchura punctulata

N

-

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

N

-

Black-collared Starling

Gracupica nigricollis

N

-

Common Myna

Acridotheres tristis

N

-

Crested Myna

Acridotheres cristatellus

N

-

Black Drongo

Dicrurus macrocercus

N

-

Azure-winged Magpie

Cyanopica cyanus

N

-

Eurasian Magpie

Pica pica

N

-

Collared Crow

Corvus torquatus

Y

LC

 

No. of species recorded:

33

Note:

(1)   Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002) and BirdLife International listing (2011).

(2)   follows HK bird list (dated 2015-4-20)

# Greater Coucal and Lesser Coucal are listed as vulnerable (VU) in China Red Data Book and it is protected under terrestrial wildlife state protection (category II).

 

Table I4:      Summary of bird species recorded in the WRA during the reporting month

Species Name(2)

Scientific Name(2)

Wetland Dependence

Conservation Status(1)

Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis

Y

LC

Grey Heron

Ardea cinerea

Y

PRC

Great Egret

Ardea alba

Y

PRC, (RC)

Little Egret

Egretta garzetta

Y

PRC, (RC)

Eastern Cattle Egret

Bubulcus coromandus

Y

LC

Chinese Pond Heron

Ardeola bacchus

Y

PRC, (RC)

Black-crowned Night Heron

Nycticorax nycticorax

Y

(LC)

Yellow Bittern

Ixobrychus sinensis

Y

LC

White-breasted Waterhen

Amaurornis phoenicurus

Y

-

Common Sandpiper

Actitis hypoleucos

Y

-

Spotted Dove

Spilopelia chinensis

N

-

Eurasian Collared Dove

Streptopelia decaocto

N

-

#Greater Coucal

Centropus sinensis

N

-

#Lesser Coucal

Centropus bengalensis

N

-

Pied Kingfisher

Ceryle rudis

Y

(LC)

White-throated Kingfisher

Halcyon smyrnensis

Y

LC

Common Kingfisher

Alcedo atthis

Y

-

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

N

-

White Wagtail

Motacilla alba

Y

-

Red-whiskered Bulbul

Pycnonotus jocosus

N

-

Chinese Bulbul

Pycnonotus sinensis

N

-

Long-tailed Shrike

Lanius schach

N

-

Oriental Magpie Robin

Copsychus saularis

N

-

Plain Prinia

Prinia inornata

N

-

Scaly-breasted Munia

Lonchura punctulata

N

-

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus

N

-

Black-collared Starling

Gracupica nigricollis

N

-

Common Myna

Acridotheres tristis

N

-

Crested Myna

Acridotheres cristatellus

N

-

Black Drongo

Dicrurus macrocercus

N

-

Azure-winged Magpie

Cyanopica cyanus

N

-

Eurasian Magpie

Pica pica

N

-

Collared Crow

Corvus torquatus

Y

LC

 

No. of species recorded:

33

Note:      

(1)   Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002) and BirdLife International listing (2011)

(2)   Follows HK bird list (dated 2015-4-20)

#   Greater Coucal and Black-winged Kite are listed as vulnerable (VU) in China Red Data Book and it is protected under terrestrial wildlife state protection (category II)

 

 

Appendix J.   Summary of Herpetofauna, Mammal and Insect Surveys conducted

 

 

 

 

Table J1:       Summary of herpetofauna monitoring in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA)

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Records Outside Surveys

Amphibian

No. of species recorded:

 

0

(No records in September 2015)

 

 

 

 

 

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Records Outside Surveys

Reptile

No. of species recorded:

 

0

(No records in September 2015)

 

 

 

 

 

Note:      

(1) Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002), Chan et al. (2005) and Karsen et al. (1998).

(2) Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3) Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period (excluding the WRA).

Table J2:       Summary of herpetofauna monitoring in the WRA

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Records Outside Surveys

Amphibian

No. of species recorded:

 

1

Gunther's Frog

Rana guentheri

-

-

-

ü

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Records Outside Surveys

Reptile

No. of species recorded:

 

0

(No Records in September 2015)

 

 

 

 

 

Note:      

(1) Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002), Chan et al. (2005) and Karsen et al. (1998).

(2) Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3) Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period in the WRA.

Table J3:       Summary of mammal monitoring in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA)

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Records Outside Surveys

Mammal

No. of species recorded:

 

0

(No records in September 2015)

 

 

 

 

 

Note:      

(1) Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002) and Shek (2006).

(2) Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3) Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period (excluding the WRA).

Table J4:       Summary of mammal monitoring in the WRA

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Records Outside Surveys

Mammal

No. of species recorded:

 

1

Bat

indet. sp. 1

-

 

 

ü

Note:      

(1) Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002) and Shek (2006).

(2) Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3) Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period  at WRA.

Table J5:       Summary of dragonflies (odonata) and butterfly monitoring in the Survey Area (excluding the WRA)

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015  Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Odonata

No. of species recorded:

 

0

(No records in September 2015)

 

 

 

 

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Butterfly

No. of species recorded:

 

0

(No records in September 2015)

 

 

 

 

Note:      

(1) Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002), Lo & Hui (2004), Tam et al. (2011) and Young & Yiu (2002).

(2) Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3) Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period (excluding the WRA).

Table J6:       Summary of dragonflies (odonata) and butterfly monitoring in the WRA

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Odonata

No. of species recorded:

 

4

Blue Dasher

Brachydiplax chalybea flavovittata

-

1

1.0

Green Skimmer

Orthetrum sabina sabina

-

1

2.0

Pied Percher

Neurothemis tullia tullia

-

1

1.0

Variegated Flutterer

Rhyothemis variegata arria

-

1

2.0

Species Name

Scientific Name

Conservation Status(1)

September 2015 Occurrence(2)

September 2015 Mean(3)

Butterfly

No. of species recorded:

 

1

Common Sailor

Neptis hylas hylas

-

1

1.0

Note:      

(1) Conservation status follows that of Fellowes et al. (2002), Lo & Hui (2004), Tam et al. (2011) and Young & Yiu (2002).

(2) Indicates number of surveys recorded within the reporting period.

(3) Refers to the mean number of individuals recorded in the reporting period in the WRA.

Appendix K.   Summary of Water Quality Monitoring associated with Ecological Monitoring conducted

 

 

 

 

 

Table K1. Water quality at WRA during the reporting month

Cell No.

Temp. (ºC)

pH

Salinity (ppt)

Turbidity (NTU)

DO (mg/L)

Water Level (cm)

1

27.9

7.46

0.34

5.6

5.3

170

2

28.1

7.22

0.33

5.4

4.5

160

3

28.1

7.28

0.27

5.8

5.9

190

4

28.0

7.30

0.31

5.1

4.6

190

Note:       Values highlighted in bold indicate that action level is reached; whereas values in bold and underline indicate that limit level is reached.

 

 

 

 

Appendix L.    Environmental Mitigation Measures – Implementation Status

 

 

 

 

Air Quality – Recommended Mitigation Measures

Air Quality Mitigation Measures during construction

Implementation Status

·       access roads should be sprayed with water or dust suppression chemical to maintain the entire road surface wet or paved;

ü

·       every stock of more than 20 bags of cement or dry PFA should be covered entirely by impervious sheeting or placed in an area sheltered on the top and the 3 sides;

N/A

·       de-bagging, batching or mixing process should be carried out in sheltered areas during the use of bagged cement;

N/A

·       use of effective dust screens, sheeting or netting to be provided to enclose dry scaffolding which may be provided from the ground floor level of the building or if a canopy is provided at the first floor level, from the first floor level, up to the highest level (maximum four floors for this Project) of the scaffolding where scaffolding is erected around the perimeter of a building under construction;

N/A

·       dump trucks for material transport should be totally enclosed using impervious sheeting;

ü

·       any excavated dusty materials or stockpile of dusty materials should be covered entirely by impervious sheeting or sprayed with water so as to maintain the entire surface wet, and recovered or backfilled or reinstated within 24 hours of the excavation or unloading;

ü

·       dusty materials remaining after a stockpile is removed should be wetted with water;

ü

·       the area where vehicle washing takes place and the section of the road between the washing facilities and the exit point should be paved with e.g. concrete, bituminous materials or hardcore or similar;

ü

·       the portion of road leading only to a construction site that is within 30m of a designated vehicle entrance or exit should be kept clear of dusty materials;

ü

·       stockpile of dusty materials to be either covered entirely by impervious sheeting, placed in an area sheltered on the top and the 3 sides; or sprayed with water so as to maintain the entire surface wet;

ü

·       all dusty materials to be sprayed with water prior to any loading, unloading or transfer operation so as to maintain the dusty material wet;

ü

·       vehicle speed to be limited to 10 kph except on completed access roads;

ü

·       every vehicle should be washed to remove any dusty materials from its body and wheels before leaving the construction sites;

ü

·       the load of dusty materials carried by vehicle leaving a construction site should be covered entirely by clean impervious sheeting to ensure that the dusty materials do not leak from the vehicle;

ü

·       the working area of excavation should be sprayed with water immediately before, during and immediately after (as necessary) the operations so as to maintain the entire surface wet;

ü

Odour mitigation measures

 

·       all malodorous excavated material should be placed as far as possible from any ASRs;

N/A

·       the stockpiled malodorous material should be removed from site as soon as possible; and

N/A

·       the stockpiled malodorous material should be covered entirely by plastic tarpaulin sheets.

N/A

Noise – Recommended Mitigation Measures

Noise Mitigation Measures during construction

Implementation Status

·       only well-maintained plant should be operated on-site and plant should be serviced regularly during the construction works;

ü

·       machines and plant that may be in intermittent use should be shut down between work periods or should be throttled down to a minimum;

ü

·       plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction should, where possible, be orientated to direct noise away from the NSRs;

ü

·       silencers or mufflers on construction equipment should be utilised and should be properly maintained during the construction period;

ü

·       mobile plant should be sited as far away from NSRs as possible;

ü

·       material stockpiles and other structures should be effectively utilised, where practicable, to screen noise from on-site construction activities;

ü

·       air compressor and hand-held breaker should be fitted with valid noise emission labels during operation; and

N/A

·       The Contractor shall at all times comply with all current statutory environmental legislation.

ü

Selection of quieter plant and working methods

The Contractor shall obtain particular models of plant that are quieter than standards given in GW-TM.  The list of assumed quieter plants can be found in the Table 4–14 of the EIA report. The Contractor shall select from the available models achieving the assumed sound levels while making reference to the GW-TM and BS5228: Part 1: 1997

ü

Use of Noise Barriers

Noise barriers are proposed along the site boundary to block the direct line of sight from the most affected NSRs to the major noise contribution construction phases.  The height of the noise barriers ranged from 9-10m.  The noise barriers shall be built before the commencement of construction works in order to ensure protection to nearby NSRs.  The noise barrier should have a surface density of at least 10kg/m2 or material providing equivalent transmission loss.  The noise barriers and hoardings should have no gaps and openings to avoid noise leakage.

ü

Water Quality – Recommended Mitigation Measures

Water Quality Mitigation Measures during construction

Implementation Status

·        The site should be confined to avoid silt runoff to the site.

ü

·        No discharge of silty water into the storm drain and drainage channel within and the vicinity of the site.

ü

·        Any soil contaminated with chemicals/oils shall be removed from site and the void created shall be filled with suitable materials.

ü

·        Stockpiles to be covered by tarpaulin to avoid spreading of materials during rainstorms;

N/A

·        Suitable containers shall be used to hold the chemical wastes to avoid leakage or spillage during storage, handling and transport;

ü

·        Chemical waste containers shall be labelled with appropriate warning signs in English and Chinese to avoid accidents.  there shall also be clear instructions showing what action to take in the event of an accidental;

ü

·        Storage areas shall be selected at safe locations on site and adequate space shall be allocated to the storage area;

ü

·        Any construction plant which causes pollution to the water system due to leakage of oil or fuel shall be removed off-site immediately;

N/A

·        Spillage or leakage of chemical waste to be controlled by using suitable absorbent materials;

N/A

·        Chemicals will always be stored on drip trays or in bunded areas where the volume is 110% of the stored volume;

ü

·        Regular clearance of domestic waste generated in the temporary sanitary facilities to avoid waste water spillage.  

ü

·        Temporary sanitary facilities to be provided for on-site workers during construction.  

ü

·        Temporary drainage channel and associated facilities will be provided to collect the surface runoff generated within the Project Area during the construction phase.

ü

·       Sandbags or silt traps will need to be placed to avoid silt runoff to the drainage channel draining the water in the northern ditch.  Draining of the ditches should avoid rainy weather.

ü

·       Excavated soil which needs to be temporarily stockpiled should be stored in a specially designated area and provided with a tarpaulin cover to avoid runoff into the drainage channels.

ü

Waste Management – Recommended Mitigation Measures

Waste Management Mitigation Measures during construction

Implementation Status

Site Clearance Waste

·        The major construction works of Wo Shang Wai is in the development of residential buildings and other associated facilities (club house, tennis courts, etc). The amount of site clearance works will be limited with the exception of the excavated materials. The thin layer of vegetation removed can be stored and reused for landscaping.

ü

Excavated Materials

The intention is to maximize the reuse of the excavated materials on-site as fill materials.

ü

Imported Filling Material

The excavated/imported filling material may have to be temporarily stockpiled on-site for the construction of road embankment and foundation of viaduct substructure.  Control measures should be taken at the stockpiling area to prevent the generation of dust and pollution of stormwater channels.  However, to eliminate the risk of blocking drains in the wet season, it is recommended that stockpiling of excavated materials at during wet season should be avoided as far as practicable.

ü

Construction and Demolition Materials

Careful design, planning and good site management can minimise over-ordering and generation of waste materials such as concrete, mortars and cement grouts.  The design of formwork should maximise the use of standard wooden panels so that high reuse levels can be achieved.  Alternatives such as steel formwork of plastic facing should be considered to increase the potential for reuse.

ü

The Contractor should reuse any C&D material on-site. C&D waste should be segregated and stored in different containers to other wastes to encourage the re-use or recycling of materials and their proper disposal.

ü

Chemical Waste

For those processes which generate chemical waste, it may be possible to find alternatives which generate reduced quantities or even no chemical waste, or less dangerous types of chemical waste.

N/A

Containers used for the storage of chemical wastes should:

 

·       be suitable for the substance they are holding, resistant to corrosion, maintained in a good condition, and securely closed:

ü

·       have a capacity of less than 450 litres unless the specification have been approved by the EPD; and

ü

·       display a label in English and Chinese in accordance with instructions prescribed in Schedule 2 of the Regulations,

ü

The storage area for chemical wastes should:

 

·       be clearly labelled and used solely for the storage of chemical waste;

ü

·       be enclosed on at least 3 sides;

ü

·       have an impermeable floor and bunding, of capacity to accommodate 110% of the volume of the largest container or 20% by volume of the chemical waste stored in that area whichever is the greatest;

ü

·       have adequate ventilation;

ü

·       be covered to prevent rainfall entering (water collected within the bund must be tested and disposed as chemical waste if necessary); and

ü

·       be arranged so that incompatible materials are adequately separated.

ü

Disposal of chemical waste should:

 

·       be via a licensed waste collector; and

N/A

·       be to a facility licensed to receive chemical waste, such as the Chemical Waste Treatment Facility which also offers a chemical waste collection service and can supply the necessary storage containers, or

N/A

·       to be reuser of the waste, under approval from the EPD.

N/A

General Refuse

Should be stored in enclosed bins or compaction units separate from C&D and chemical wastes.  The Contractor should employ a reputable waste collector to remove general refuse from the site, separate from C&D and chemical wastes, on a regular basis to minimise odour, pest and litter impacts.  Burning of refuse on construction sites is prohibited by law.

P

Disposal of Excavated Sediment at Sea

 

The requirements and procedures for excavated sediment disposal are specified under the ETWB TCW No. 34/2002 and PNAP 252.  The management of the excavation, use and disposal of sediment is monitored by Fill Management Committee, whilst the licensing of marine dumping is the responsibility of the Director of Environmental Protection (DEP).

N/A

The excavated sediment would be loaded onto barges or other appropriate vessel and transported to the designated marine disposal site.  Category L sediment and Category M sediment passing the biological test would be suitable for disposal at a gazetted open sea disposal ground.  Category M sediment failing the biological test and Category H sediment passing the biological test would require confined marine disposal.

N/A

During transportation and disposal of the dredged sediment, the following measures should be taken to minimize potential impacts on water quality: -

N/A

·        Bottom opening transport vessels should be fitted with tight fitting seals to prevent leakage of material. Excess material should be cleaned from the decks and exposed fittings of vessels before the vessel is moved.

N/A

·        Monitoring of the barge loading should be conducted to ensure that loss of material does not take place during transportation. Transport barges or vessels should be equipped with automatic self-monitoring devices as specified by the DEP.

N/A

Ecology – Recommended Mitigation Measures

Ecology Mitigation Measures during construction

Implementation Status

Clear Definition of Site Limit

 

Clear definition of the site limit should be provided in order to minimize and confine the disturbance during the construction period, especially the northern limit of the Site which is adjacent to fishponds within the Conservation Area (CA) zone and are considered to be ecological sensitive receivers.

ü

During wetland construction stage the WRA boundary will be delineated using a temporary hoarding in order to reduce disturbance to off-site habitats and wildlife.  During the establishment phase this hoarding will be replaced with a 1 m high chain-link fence in order to reduce disturbance to the WRA through access by humans and dogs, and a hoarding will be established around the residential construction site.

N/A

(WRA construction completed)

Dust and Noise Suppression and Avoidance of Water Pollution

 

Good site practices of dust and noise suppression should be strictly implemented to ensure that disturbance is minimized to acceptable levels. Mitigation measures for the off-site disturbance impacts on the fishponds in the CA include hoarding at the northern site boundary during construction of the WRA to reduce noise and dust impacts to the adjacent habitats. Through the use of quieter plant and temporary/movable noise barriers, the noise level would be reduced significantly to an acceptable level. Hoarding at the northern boundary should be replaced with a 1 m high chain-link fence following construction and the WRA will then act as a buffer between the existing wetland areas and the residential part of the site until construction is completed.  Hoarding will be retained between the WRA and ongoing construction work to avoid visual disturbance and reduce noise and dust emissions.  Pollution of watercourses and sedimentary runoff will be minimized by good site practice, especially the containment of water and sediment within the site for removal.

These standard noise and air and water quality site practices are considered to be effective measures for minimizing the disturbance impact during the construction period.

ü

Planning of Construction Schedule

 

The construction of the proposed project should be scheduled in phases. Because mitigation is preferably carried out in advance of the main works rather than after the completion of works, the construction of the WRA will commence at the start of the project.  Construction work within the WRA is scheduled to take place in a single wet season, followed by 1.5 years of wetland establishment. During the wetland establishment period no noisy work will be undertaken within the WRA to minimize the disturbance to off-site habitats and wildlife.

N/A

(WRA construction completed)

Reusing Onsite Materials

 

Soil and plants on-site should be reused (e.g. used as fill material) as far as practical. Stock piles of these reusable materials should be stored in an appropriate area on-site. In particular, the re-use of the wetland soils and topsoil should be considered.

ü

Construction of the Wetland Restoration Area

The WRA will be operational within 2.5 yrs from the commencement of construction (1 year for site formation and 1.5 years for establishment) and will compensate for the predicted ecological impacts of the proposed development.

ü

Landscape and Visual – Recommended Mitigation Measures

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures during construction

Implementation Status

CM1 - The construction area and contractor’s temporary works areas should be minimised to avoid impacts on adjacent landscape. 

ü

CM2 - Screening of construction works by hoarding / noise barriers.

ü

(Appendix M Photo 1,2*)

CM3 - Reduction of construction period to practical minimum.

ü

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.

ü

CM5 - Hydroseeding or sheeting of soil stockpiles with visually unobtrusive material (in earth tone).

ü

CM6 – Advance screen planting of noise barriers

ü

(Appendix M Photo 3*)

CM7 - Control night-time lighting and glare by hooding all lights.

N/A

CM8 - Ensure no run-off into streams adjacent to the Project Area.

ü

CM9 - Protection of existing trees on boundary of site 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).

ü

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.

ü

Legend: 

ü             Implemented

X              Not implemented

P              Partially implemented

N/A          Not applicable

*               Photos are in Appendix M

 

 

Appendix M.  Landscape and Visual Audit Photos