MASTER OF ENERGY MANAGEMENT (MEM)

DMY9509 Research Project

Academic Year 2021/22
Final Report

Feasibility study in establishing the Sri Lanka Ocean Test

Center - SLOT

I T Jayashantha – 221329645
S K Dinusha Madurangi - 221329659
Channu Thebuwana - 121313792

Supervisor- Mr. R L K Lokuliyana

Department of Mechanical Engineering Faculty of

Engineering Technology Open University of Sri Lanka

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The Feasibility Study for establishing
Sri Lanka Ocean Test Center – SLOT

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Acknowledgement

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Eng Ravindu Lokuliyana for guiding us through
out the project by providing us valuable suggestions which paved the way for us to acquire greater
knowledge in the Sustainable Energy field.

We would like to express our appreciation to Eng.Ruchira Abeyweera,the coordinator of Master of

Energy Management for his guidance and for scheduling the project submission and presentation.

We would also like to acknowledge with much appreciation, the support and guidance given by all
the lectures who were there in the evaluation panel during presentation

Further we would like to acknowledge Sri Lanka Navy officers who support us to do site visit and
take photographs

Finally send our appreciation to all student who support by sharing their knowledge and experience
throughout the project activities

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Abstract

Importance of renewable

Renewable sources of energy are essential alternatives to fossil fuels. Their use reduces
greenhouse gas emissions, diversifies energy supply and reduces dependence on unreliable and
volatile fossil fuel markets (in particular hydrocarbons such as oil and gas). Ocean energy has the
potential to be an important component of Sri Lanka’s renewable energy mix, as part of its longer-
term energy strategy.
Wave energy has the largest potential in worldwide and can be captured in a number of different
ways through the use of different converters such as point absorbers, attenuators, over-topping,
oscillating wave surge converters and oscillating water columns.
The technology has not yet reached the stage of commercial scale development, but progress will
be made as evidenced through the ocean test center being established in Sri Lanka.
Wave energy has many advantages over other forms of renewable energy, being much more
predictable than, for instance, wind, giving more scope for short term planning of grid usage.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)

A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) involves the systematic identification and evaluation
of the impacts of a strategic action (e.g. a plan or program) on the environment. In other words, it
provides for strategic environmental information to be considered at an early stage in the decision-
making process.
SEAs tend to cover geographical areas and the plan/program being assessed can include a range of
different types of projects relating to a number of different broad areas for development, in
contrast to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) which is area specific and deals with only
one project.
An SEA focuses on identifying the likely significance of potential effects, whereas an EIA deals with
precise effects and evaluated actual significance.

The findings of the SEA can assist in guiding development to areas where environmental effects are
minimal or can be avoided. The information collated, generated and documented as part of the SEA
process often becomes the first source of environmental information for developers when thinking

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about site selection and project development, pointing developers to sources of further and more
detailed information.

Spatial Footprint of SLOT Center

To calculate the spatial footprint of a wave energy is difficult as it will depend on the technology
being deployed. Similarly, different technologies will have different spacing and mooring
requirements which will again have consequences for the sea area occupied. Local, regional,
national and international regulations and legislation usually require a buffer zone to be created
around selected SLOT development for the purposes of navigational safety. Equally international
best practice on cable protection suggests that a buffer of 500m should be created around any
cables or pipelines to prevent damage from navigational activities such as shipping and fishing
practices.

None of the aforementioned factors can yet be definitely expressed but will still need to be
considered in planning the development and management of SLOT center. In future this is likely to
take place within a dedicated Maritime Spatial Planning system, so this information has the
potential to assist in that process.

Five Stage Development Schedule

While substantial knowledge has been gained on the requirements for extracting energy from
ocean waves, at the current stage of technical advancement, the development of wave energy
devices still requires a cautious and measured methodology to be followed. Commercial scale wave
energy can only become a reality following full scale testing of wave energy converters at sea and it
is essential that the correct engineering procedures are followed leading up to the first sea trials.

The most efficient and effective means of doing this is to proceed according to the Stage wise
development program. The principle behind this is to sequence design development so that the
required knowledge is obtained at different stages to facilitate safe transmission along a course of
increasing technical complexity and investment requirements. This approach is now becoming
accepted as the best practice in the world.

To accommodate all requirements a five-stage schedule has evolved as the optimum for the
development of wave energy devices. Device development should not be regarded as a straight-
line process and feedback loops and repetition of stages should be expected. The five stages
basically align with small, medium, large- and full-scale models that can be tested initially in
hydraulic laboratories and, at later stages, in the open sea conditions. During last stage the power
electronics controlling the output and the physical influence of one machine on another will be
determined.

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List of figures

Figure 1.1: List of Referred Ocean Test Centers around in Europe

Figure 1.2: Proposed layout for SLOT

Figure 1.3: Proposed Building layout for SLOT

Figure 1.4: Existing view of Proposed location

List of Tables

Table 1.1 The levels of effect used in this SLOT

Table 1.2 Level of Visual Impact effects

Table 1.3 Selected view points

Table 1.4 Summary of the view point assessment

Table 1.5 Summary of effects on landscape receptors

List of Appendices

ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

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List of Abbreviations

SLOT Sri Lanka Ocean Test Center

ADCP Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler
SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment
CEA Central Environmental Authority
MEPA Marine Environment Protection Authority
EPL Environmental Protection License
NEA National Environmental Act
MRED Marine Renewable Energy Device
SLVIA Seascape landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
WEC Wave Energy Converter

ZTV zone of theoretical visibility

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CONTENTS

Contents
Acknowledgement ............................................................................................................................................... 3
Abstract ............................................................................................................................................................... 4
Importance of renewable ................................................................................................................................ 4
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) ..................................................................................................... 4
Spatial Footprint of SLOT Center ..................................................................................................................... 5
Five Stage Development Schedule .................................................................................................................. 5
List of figures ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
Figure 1.1: List of Referred Ocean Test Centers around in Europe ............................................................. 6
Figure 1.2: Proposed layout for SLOT .......................................................................................................... 6
Figure 1.3: Proposed Building layout for SLOT ............................................................................................ 6
Figure 1.4: Existing view of Proposed location ............................................................................................ 6
List of Tables ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Table 1.1 The levels of effect used in this SLOT .......................................................................................... 6
Table 1.2 Level of Visual Impact effects ...................................................................................................... 6
Table 1.3 Selected view points .................................................................................................................... 6
Table 1.4 Summary of the view point assessment ...................................................................................... 6
Table 1.5 Summary of effects on landscape receptors ............................................................................... 6
List of Appendices................................................................................................................................................ 6
ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................................... 6
List of Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................................ 7
CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
1.0 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 10
1.1 List of Referred Ocean Test Centers around in Europe ........................................................................... 11
1.2PROPOSED LAYOUT FOR SLOT .................................................................................................................. 13
2.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT .......................................................................................................................... 15
2.1Environment Protection License .............................................................................................................. 15
2.1.1 Objectives of the Environmental Protection License (EPL) .............................................................. 15
2.1.2Validity Period of an EPL .................................................................................................................... 16
2.1.2Standards and Criteria ....................................................................................................................... 16
2.1.2Procedure for issuing an EPL for industrial activities in List A. .......................................................... 16
2.2Sea Dumping License ................................................................................................................................ 18
2.3Bunkering License ..................................................................................................................................... 19
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 2.3.1Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 19
2.4Marine Environment Protection License .................................................................................................. 21
Relevant Documents which should be submitted with MEPA Sea Dumping Application......................... 24
3.0ENVIRONMENTAL CLARIFICATIONS.............................................................................................................. 25
3.1Discharges................................................................................................................................................. 25
3.2Accidental spillage .................................................................................................................................... 26
3.3Paints and coatings ................................................................................................................................... 26
3.4Mooring .................................................................................................................................................... 26
3.5Materials and Products ............................................................................................................................ 26
3.6Noise and Vibrations ................................................................................................................................ 26
3.7Maintenance works .................................................................................................................................. 27
3.8Marine Mammal Impact ........................................................................................................................... 27
4.0Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment .................................................................................. 28
4.1Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 28
4.2Approach and Methodology..................................................................................................................... 28
4.3Assessment Methodology ........................................................................................................................ 29
4.3.1Study area .......................................................................................................................................... 29
4.3.2The key steps for assessing landscape and visual ............................................................................. 29
4.3.3. Judging the level of Effects ........................................................................................................ 30
4.4Device and Operation ............................................................................................................................... 37
4.5Lighting and Marking ................................................................................................................................ 37
4.6Realistic worst-case Scenario ................................................................................................................... 38
4.7Potential Sources of Effects ...................................................................................................................... 39
5.0RESPONSIBILITIES ......................................................................................................................................... 40
5.1MRED developer responsibilities.............................................................................................................. 40
5.2SLOT Responsibilities ................................................................................................................................ 40
CONCLUSION ..................................................................................................................................................... 42
List of Reference ................................................................................................................................................ 43
........................................................................................................................................................................... 43
APPENDIX 1........................................................................................................................................................ 45
ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ...................................................................................................................... 45

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

The transition to an energy system based on renewable technologies will have very positive
economic consequences on the global economy and on development. According to the
International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), doubling the renewable energy share in electricity
generation to 57 % worldwide by 2030 will be necessary for meeting the Paris Agreement targets
For the Asian countries, It is very first time we area going to introduce the concept of wave energy
use as a renewable energy.in this case, the research report emphasis that few of first step need to
be taken to implement the projects.
The Proposed concept and Design of SLOT is the very first Ocean test center in Sri Lanka which is
going to use Wave Energy as renewable energy. The proposed location is located within the
sensitive context of the tourisms area of southern province. The site selected according to research
result of Sri Lanka wave energy resource assessment and characterization research report.
In Order to streamline licensing and testing for developers, a site -wide consent is sought, that will
allow activities and installation within a defined project envelop. The SLVIA is therefore based on
‘realistic worst case ‘development scenario using the maximum likely parameters of the project
envelope in terms of the scale of the development.
The SLVIA examines the effects of activities and installations within the Project Envelope on:
Landscape as a resource in its own right (including coastal landscape and seascape), caused by
changes to its constituent elements, its specific aesthetic or perceptual qualities, and/or its
character; and
Views and visual amenity as experienced by people, resulting from changes in the appearance of
the landscape.
After Selecting the location, parallel to so many studies in same function in European counties our
team proposed the layout plan for the SLOT
How ever with limited time period we completed our studies, and we are on track for further
developments with consultation response.
But for the European countries, with finance stability they implemented several numbers of Ocean
test centers and wave energy converts. Here we listed down some of them which were study for
our project report

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1.1 List of Referred Ocean Test Centers around in Europe

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Figure 1.1: List of Referred Ocean Test Centers around in Europe

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1.2PROPOSED LAYOUT FOR SLOT

Figure 1.2: Proposed layout for SLOT

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 Figure 1.3: Proposed Building layout for SLOT

The Proposed development will involve deploying wave energy converters (WECs) in deep water.
WEC will be anchored within the designated test area and will be connected to the electricity grid
onshore via submarine electricity cables. Following Components will be commenced:

• Two offshore Test areas will be deployed.

• Submarine Electricity Cables will be laid

• Oceanographic monitoring equipment will be placed

o MET Ocean Buoy will be moored at Test Area A, to record wind direction, record of
waves and atmospheric pressure.
o Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ACDP) will also be placed at the seabed in both
Test Areas for same measurements.

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 o Wave rider buoy will be moored at Test Area B to measure the wave resources
o In order to prevent collision damages 2 large mark buoys will demarcate the Test
Areas

• Offices, Work Shops, Monitoring Panels, Test Pools and Transformer room will be constructed
on shore.
Construction of the project will involve initial preparatory works offshore in the marine
environment and construction of the and-side elements of the project

2.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

The possible impact on the environment of this development was examined. This was done by
accessing the environment terms of the existing conditions of Marine Environment Protection
Authority (MEPA) and Central Environmental Authority (CEA).
It was observed during this study that below license are required to be maintained:
1. Environment Protection License granted from CEA
2. Sea Dumping License from MEPA
3. Bunkering License from MEPA
4. Marine Environment Protection License from MEPA

2.1Environment Protection License

The Environmental Protection License (EPL) is a regulatory/legal tool under the provisions of the
National Environmental Act No: 47 of 1980 amended by Acts No 56 of 1988 and No 53 of 2000.

2.1.1 Objectives of the Environmental Protection License (EPL)

• To prevent or minimize the release of discharges and emissions into the environment from
prescribed (industrial) activities in compliance with national discharge and emission standards.

• To develop an approach to pollution control that considers discharges from prescribed

(industrial) processes to all media (air, water, land) in the context of the effect on the
environment.

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 • To contain the burden on industry, in particular by providing guidance on pollution control
for polluting processes.

• To ensure that the system responds flexibly both to changing pollution abatement
technology and to new knowledge such as cleaner production, waste minimization etc.

2.1.2Validity Period of an EPL

Prescribed industrial activities coming under List A-Maximum of one year from the effective date of
the Licence.

2.1.2Standards and Criteria

Section 23 A of the National Environmental Act (NEA) explicitly states that no person shall carry out
any prescribed activity except under the authority of an EPL and in accordance with such standards
and other criteria as may be prescribed under the Act.
The standards for discharge of wastewater into the environment

• Standards were also gazetted for the control of noise emissions from industries

• Interim standards on vibration control

• Interim standards on Air Blast Over Pressure and Ground Vibration for Blasting Activities

• Stands for Inconvenience of the occupants in buildings

2.1.2Procedure for issuing an EPL for industrial activities in List A.

Step 1: Application Procedure

EPL application could be obtained from the CEA Headquarters, Provincial and District Offices. It
could be downloaded from the CEA website www.cea.lk

Duly filled application shall be submitted for each prescribed activity to the relevant Provincial
Office or District Office of the CEA.
The applicant must provide all the particulars requested in the application form and submit to the
PO or DO with following supporting documents.

• Certificate for the Registration of Business

• Legal authorization to use the land for the particular industrial activity. (Copy of deed, copy
of the Lease agreement of the land etc.)
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 • Copy of Survey Plan of the land.

• Legal authorization for establishing the particular industry at the site. (Certificate of
Conformity/Trade License or Consent paper from relevant LA)

• Production Certificate necessary for specific products. (Distilleries, medicinal products,

pesticide manufacturing etc.)

• Proposal for pollutant abatement.

• Any other detail/document requested by the Authority

Step 2: Pre-Evaluation of the Application

Relevant Provincial/ District office of the CEA will pre-evaluate to check the relevancy of issuing the
EPL, the adequacy of the details furnished and to determine the inspection fee to be requested.
Then the application will proceed to step 3 and the rest go back to the step 1.
Step 3: Determination and payment of inspection fee
Based on the details furnished by the industrialist, the relevant Provincial/District Office decides
the amount of the inspection fee to be paid and a written request will be made to the industrialist.
At present minimum amount is Rs: 3427.20 and maximum amount is Rs: 11424.00(with
government approved Tax)
The industrialist has to make such payment to the relevant Provincial/District Office, Head Office or
any other Provincial/District office of the CEA. After the payment is made the receipt should be
submitted to the relevant Provincial/District Office. Once the receipt is received, proceed to the
step 4.
Step 4: Field Inspection
A team of officers will carry out a field inspection in order to assess the data furnished in the
application with respect to the industry and to decide the possibility to operate such industry with
controlling pollution.
Step 5: Inspection Report with Recommendations
Inspection team will prepare a report based on the field inspection details regarding the industry,
technical reports provided by the applicant and social aspects along with their recommendations. If
the site is recommended proceed to step 6

If the recommendation suggested requesting a proposal for additional pollution control measures,
the industrialist will be informed to fulfill such request. Decision to issue the EPL will be made
based on the evaluation of the additional details provided by the applicant. Proceed to step 6.

If it is decided to refuse issuing of the licence, the applicant will be informed accordingly.

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According to the provisions of the National Environmental Act, any applicant for a licence who is
aggrieved by the refusal by the Authority to grant a licence may within thirty (30) days, after the
date of notification of such decision to him/her, appeal in writing against such decision, to the
Secretary of the Ministry of Environment.

2.2Sea Dumping License

Issuing dumping permit through online service aims to streamline the procedure and control the
marine pollution more efficiently. The online system is with following features.

Online apply for the permit

Applicant can download the application form from web site of Marine Environment Protection
Authority (MEPA) www.mepa.gov.lk . It can be filled online and submitted with the scan copy of all
supporting documents to the relevant district office of MEPA through the system. Originals of the
documents will be checked at the field inspection by the officers from district office of MEPA.
When district office receive the application, a receipt will be received the applicant through the
system (E- mail)
Online submission of the inspection report
After the pre-evaluation of the application and documents, MEPA officers from relevant district
office, will inspect the site and submit the inspection report with recommendation, to the relevant
Assistant Manger (AM) through the system. Finally application is submitted to the MEPA head
office with the recommendation of AM through the system.
Inform the permit fee through the system
When the evaluating and approving committee give the approval to issue a permit, the fee
informing letter will be send to the applicant through the system. After pay the permit fee, the
permit will be issued.
Renew the permit
The massage will be generate and send by the system to permit holder, one month prior to expire
the permit. Then he or she can start the apply procedure for renew the permit, which is as same as
the apply procedure for the initial permit.
Monitoring and reporting
Monitoring and report generating is done continuously by the system.

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2.3Bunkering License

The bunkering services are provided by private service companies. To minimize the risk of oil spill
during the bunker operations Marine Pollution Prevention Act No 35 of 2008 has given mandate to
Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) to oversee bunkering operations that are carried
out in the territorial waters of Sri Lanka or any other maritime zone, its foreshore and the coastal
zone of Sri Lanka for the purpose of preventing of any possible pollution.
As per the provisions of the above Act, MEPA has promulgated Regulations (Marine Environmental
Protection) No.02 of 2011) published in the Special Gazette Notification No. 1741/19 of Thursday,
January 19, 2012.
The Bunker licenses are issued to the WEC Developers.

2.3.1Objectives

Preventing and minimizing any accidental oil spillage during bunker operations.

• Execution of safe bunkering operations sans any accident, spillage and leakage.
• Ensuring the bunker vessels safety standards and other requirements which are in line with
the international bunker standards.
• Establishing the awareness of legal, contractual and regulatory bunkering issues among
the WEC Developers.

Validity Period
One (01) year period from the effective date of the license.

Standards and Criteria

the standards that should be maintained by bunker vessels are published in the Regulations
(Marine Environmental Protection) No.02 of 2011 published in the Gazette Notification No.
1741/19, of January 19, 2012.

Procedure of Issuing Bunker License

In order to carry out any bunker operation in Sri Lankan waters, all bunker vessels, offshore tank
farms and bunker suppliers should apply for a bunker license.

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In order to commence any bunker oil operations by using Road tankers, a road tanker clearance
certificate should be applied for.
Application should be submitted before commencing any bunker operation.
Step 1: Application Procedure

The application form for bunker operations in the territorial waters in Sri Lanka- should be
obtained as per the Schedule I of the aforesaid Regulations (Marine Environmental Protection)
No.02 of 2011,
Duly filled application should be submitted with a set of copies of following supporting documents.
The Certificate of Insurance for Pollution Liability
The Bunker Facility Procedure Manual
The Emergency Response Manual

Application for Bunker on Facility Ashore – Schedule III

Application could be obtained from the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA)
Headquarters or its Provincial and District Offices.
Application fee Rs 1000.00
Step 2: Evaluation of the Application

MEPA evaluates the application along with the submitted documents and will inform documentary
gaps and lapses, if any, to be fulfilled before carrying out the field inspection. After completing this
stage then the application will proceed to step 3.
Step 3: Field Inspection

A team of officers from MEPA will carry out field inspections in order to assess, relevant safety and
technical certificates, oil/ garbage record books, check list and other requirements to be fulfilled to
issue bunker license as per the regulations . Inspection team will prepare a report and on
submission of same will be proceeded to step 4.
Step 4: Inspection Report and Approval

According to the inspection report If there are any regulatory requirements to be fulfilled, those
will be informed to the applicant and after completion, step 3 will proceed again. If the inspection
report is recommended issuing bunker license will be approved accordingly and proceed to step 5.

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Step 5: Informing the License fee

Once the approval is granted, the applicant will be informed to pay the license fee. The bunker
license fee should be paid as per the Schedule V of Bunker Regulation (Marine Environment
Protection) No.02 of 2011.
Step 6: Issuance of the permit
After the license fee is paid, the permit will be issued with the signature of the authorized signatory
valid for a period not more than one (01) year.

Renewal of Bunker License

The permit is valid for one (01) year period and the application should be submitted before the
date of expiry for renewal. The renewal application submission and license issuing procedures are
same as above mentioned step 1-6.

2.4Marine Environment Protection License

Introduction
As per the section 40 of Marine Pollution Prevention Act No.35 of 2008, any person who intends to
conduct or engage in exploration of natural resources including petroleum or any related activity
shall confirm to provisions of regulations made to that effect. First regulation which was
formulated for this purpose is Offshore Exploration for and Exploitation of Natural Resources
including Petroleum (Marine Environment Protection) Regulation No. 1 of 2011 and Marine
Environment Protection License is a regulatory/legal tool, introduced by above regulation.
Objectives of the Marine Environment Protection License
To prevent or minimize the release of discharges into the coastal and marine environment
To prevent or minimize oil spills
Validity period of dumping permit -2 year
Two year period of the effective date of the license
No license granted under this regulation shall be transferable except with the prior written
approval of the Marine Environment Protection Authority, which shall be endorsed upon such
license.

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Where the transfer of a license becomes necessary, such requirement shall be made in writing to
the Marine Environment Protection Authority indicating the reasons for such request.
Procedure of issuing license
Any person engaged in offshore exploration for and exploitation of natural resources including
petroleum in the exploration block in Sri Lankan waters should apply Marine Environment
Protection License.
Step 1: Submit the application
Marine Environment Protection License application is published in the fifth schedule of is Offshore
Exploration for and Exploitation of Natural Resources including Petroleum (Marine Environment
Protection) Regulation No. 1 of 2011, published Gazette Notification No 1709/15 dated 07.06 2011.
The application form could be obtained from the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA)
Headquarters.
Application fee USD 100.00
Application should be present two months prior to the commencement of exploration for or
exploitation of natural resources including petroleum or two months prior to the expiration of the
existing approval
Step 02: Evaluate the application
Application and other documents are evaluated to check relevancy of issuing the license and
decision is taken on the evaluation. If the decision is refuse to issue a license it will be
communicated with the reason within 14 days of the decision, in writing, to the applicant or the
licensee.
If he applicant or the licensee who is aggrieved by a decision communicated to him can appeal
against such decision to the Secretary to the Ministry of the Minister in charge of the subject of
Marine Environment Protection in writing, within thirty days from the date on which the decision is
communicated to him.
Step 03: Issuing the license
License should be,
(a) be in such form as specified in the Fourth Schedule
(b) unless it is cancelled earlier, be in force for a period of two years from the date of issue of the
license ;
(c) be subject to such terms and conditions as may be specified on the reverse of the license.
Step 02: Evaluate the application
Application and other documents are evaluated to check relevancy of issuing the license and
decision is taken on the evaluation. If the decision is refuse to issue a license it will be
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communicated with the reason within 14 days of the decision, in writing, to the applicant or the
licensee.
If he applicant or the licensee who is aggrieved by a decision communicated to him can appeal
against such decision to the Secretary to the Ministry of the Minister in charge of the subject of
Marine Environment Protection in writing, within thirty days from the date on which the decision is
communicated to him.
Step 03: Issuing the license
License should be,
(a) be in such form as specified in the Fourth Schedule
(b) unless it is cancelled earlier, be in force for a period of two years from the date of issue of the
license ;
(c) be subject to such terms and conditions as may be specified on the reverse of the license.
Step 02: Evaluate the application
Application and other documents are evaluated to check relevancy of issuing the license and
decision is taken on the evaluation. If the decision is refuse to issue a license it will be
communicated with the reason within 14 days of the decision, in writing, to the applicant or the
licensee.
If he applicant or the licensee who is aggrieved by a decision communicated to him can appeal
against such decision to the Secretary to the Ministry of the Minister in charge of the subject of
Marine Environment Protection in writing, within thirty days from the date on which the decision is
communicated to him.
Step 03: Issuing the license
License should be,
(a) be in such form as specified in the Fourth Schedule
(b) unless it is cancelled earlier, be in force for a period of two years from the date of issue of the
license ;
(c) be subject to such terms and conditions as may be specified on the reverse of the license.
Renew the license
The license shall be renewable on an application make to the Marine Environment Protection
Authority not less than thirty days before the expiry of such license. Application for renew the
license is the same application which is used for apply new license.
Application fee USD 100.00
The Authority shall renew the license if the Authority is satisfied that,
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Relevant Documents which should be submitted with MEPA Sea Dumping Application

1. Photocopies of water bills for just past one year (12 Month).
2. Latest laboratory test reports of waste water testing.
3. A photocopy of Environmental Protection License (EPL) which is issued by Central
Environmental Authority (CEA).
4. Photocopies of receipts which were relevant to discharge solid and liquid waste.
5. A photocopy of business registration (BR).
6. A4 size Google map of SLOT location.
7. Other certificates which are related to environmental friendly program if your SLOT has
received.

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3.0ENVIRONMENTAL CLARIFICATIONS

This project must comply with the applicable requirements of the international convention for the
Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78). This convention is also applicable to all
auxiliary vessels that are necessary for the installation, operation or dismantling of SLOT and WECs.
In any case, at least the following aspects relative to the safety of the environment shall be
considered.

3.1Discharges
• Prior to the installation in SLOT, the developer must provide written details of all
discharges that the Marine Renewable Energy Device (MRED) performs during its
normal operation, both to the sea as well as the atmosphere.

• Discharges from MREDs, other than sea water from heat exchanges, bilge and ballast
system, are not permitted.

• Attention shall be paid to the discharge of waste on land caused by the works of dry
dock maintenance.
• The developer must provide SLOT with a list of all pollutant substances and their
quantities for use or storage on board (Hydraulic oils, fuels, paints, solvents, batteries,
etc.).

• Also, the developer must provide a list of the waste generated by the MRED in
operations or maintenance in accordance with the European Waste Framework
Directive (2008/98/EC).

• All waste whose appraisal in value is technical and economically viable shall be sent to a
duly authorized waste appraiser.

• Waste shall only be destined for disposal if there is a previous justification that its
appraisal is not technically, economically or environmentally feasible.

• Containers for the storage of dangerous waste must comply with established safety
rules and shall remain closed until they are delivered to a waste manager to prevent loss
due to spillage or evaporation. The containers must be labelled in a clear, legible and
indelible manner and in accordance with the guidelines established in the legislation in
force.
• For waste generated in MRED operations or maintenance, the developer must provide
SLOT with documentation demonstrating they meet the requirements of waste
management specified within this guide.

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3.2Accidental spillage

• Every MRED must have adequate means to prevent accidental spillage to the air or sea.

• The developers/researchers shall provide adequate means to contain any potential

release of harmful substances. This might include bunds and catch trays.

3.3Paints and coatings

• The MRED developer’s/researcher’s requirements for corrosion protection and

antifouling shall be defined in their design with reference to an applicable offshore
standard. Areas for consideration include.

3.4Mooring

• Mooring systems that cause critical environmental impacts on the sea bed, flora or
fauna shall not be used. If there is evidence of any type of critical environmental impact
caused by the mooring system of an MRED, SLOT will require the MRED
developers/researchers to immediately remove the unit from operation/testing.

• A mooring system decommissioning plan shall be supplied before installation at SLOT.

• The elements of the mooring system must not go beyond the limits established in
SLOT’s.

3.5Materials and Products

• The use of materials that could cause critical environmental impacts is prohibited.

• All hydraulic fluids employed shall be of biodegradable type. The certificate of the type
of oil employed shall be submitted by the MRED developer/researcher.

3.6Noise and Vibrations

• If there is evidence of critical environmental impact caused by noise or vibrations

emitted by an MRED, the MRED shall immediately halt power generation until it has
been demonstrated that noise and vibration emissions have been returned to non-
critical levels.

26
3.7Maintenance works

• In accordance with the conditions established in the SLOT’s environmental consenting,

maintenance operations that involve the use of grease or paints are prohibited at sea.
For these operations MREDs must be returned to port. Information about these works
must be submitted to SLOT before proceeding.

3.8Marine Mammal Impact

• In accordance with the conditions established in the SLOT environmental permit, MRED
installation vessels shall have a maximum length of 80 m and shall observe a 10 knot
speed limit within the SLOT boundaries. Their use must be authorised by SLOT which
shall take into account the possible presence of cetaceans in seasons of greater
sensitivity.

27
4.0Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

4.1Introduction

Purpose of this Seascape landscape and Visual Impact Assessment(SLVIA)

In order to streamline licensing and testing for developers, a site-wide consent is sought, that
will allow activities and installation within a proposed project Envelope. The wave test site is
proposed to locate within the sensitivity context of the tourism area
Mirissa Giragala Village area has been undertake a SLVIA of the test site. The SILVIA examines
the effects of activities and installations within the project envelop on:
Landscape as a resource, including coastal landscape and seascape caused by changes to its
specific aesthetic or perceptual qualities, and view and visual amenity as experienced by
people, resulting from changes in the appearance of the landscape

4.2Approach and Methodology

Effect Assessed in full

This assessment is focused on changes that will occur in the marine environment and tourism.
Therefore, focuses on the changes that may occur to the character of the marine and coastal
landscape. Further examines the effect of the test site on view, as perceived by people, a result
of the changes in the environmental outlook. Specially the parrot rock.
All potentially significant landscape and visual effects have been examined
Out of Scope

On the basic of the desk based and field survey work undertaken, the professional judgemen of
research team and the feedback received from project supervisor following topic areas have
been ‘Scoped out’ of detail assessment

• 5 Km from the test site boundary,where it is judged that significant effects are unlikely
to offer
• Physical effects on coastal landscape
• Effects arising from vessel movements outside the test site
• Cumulative effects,since no other consented or planned developments have been
identified that would interact with the test site

28
4.3Assessment Methodology

4.3.1Study area

The study area for the SLOT has been defined as a 5km radius around the outer edge of the
extended wave test site area,.
5km radius study area was agreed with consultees as noted in Table 2.1. The study area was
further refined through generation of a zone of theoretical visibility
viewpoints beyond this
distance would be considered in the SLOT if they were judged to be of particular sensitivity. This
was considered to be the case for the high hills of giragala village, and views from these summits
are
included in the assessment

Data Source

The following data source have informed the assessment

survey maps at a range of scale
Field survey

Field survey work was carried out over two days during January 2022, during a range of
weather conditions. The coastal and landward parts of the study area were visited, including the
assessment viewpoints and other locations where the potential effects could be evaluated.
Records were made in the form of field notes at viewpoints, and panoramic photography was
Taken

4.3.2The key steps for assessing landscape and visual

effects are as follows:

• the landscape (including ‘seascape’) of the study area was analysed and landscape
receptors
identified;
• the area over which the Project will be visible was established through creation of a zone of
theoretical visibility (ZTV);
• the visual baseline was recorded in terms of the different groups of people who may
experience views of the development and the nature of their existing views and visual

29
 amenity;
• viewpoints were selected (including representative viewpoints, specific viewpoints and
illustrative viewpoints),
• likely significant effects on landscape and visual resources were identified;
• the level (and significance) of landscape and visual effects was judged with reference to the
sensitivity of the resource/receptor (its susceptibility and value) and magnitude of effect (a
combination of the scale of effect, geographical extent and duration/reversibility).

4.3.3Judging the level of Effects

The separate judgements of susceptibility, value, scale, geographical extent, duration and
reversibility, are considered together to provide an overall profile of each identified effect. An
overview is then taken of the distribution of judgements to make an informed professional
assessment of the overall level of each effect.
A numerical or formal weighting system is not applied. Instead, consideration of the relative
importance of each aspect feeds into the overall decision.

The levels of effect used in this SLOT are defined as shown in Table 1.1 for landscape effects and
Table 1.2 for visual effects. The descriptions are provided as examples, and each effect is judged
individually.

30
The Levels of Landscape effects

Level Effect Description

Major The Project will result in an obvious and widespread change in

landscape/seascape characteristics and character, such as permanent
loss
of key characteristics, likely affecting a highly-valued landscape with a
medium or high susceptibility to that type of change.

Moderate The Project will result in a noticeable change in landscape/seascape

characteristics and character, such as a large-scale but temporary change
in landscape features, likely affecting a landscape with a medium
susceptibility to that type of change. This level of effect may also occur
when a smaller scale of change acts on a more highly valued landscape

Minor The Project will result in a small change in landscape/seascape

characteristics and character, such as a localised effect occurring over a
long duration, or a larger-scale effect on an area of lower susceptibility
and/or value.

Negligible The Project will not result in a noticeable change in landscape/seascape

characteristics or character

Table 1.1 The levels of effect used in this SLOT

31
The Levels of the Visual Effects

Level Effect Description

Major The Project will result in an obvious and widespread change in the visual
amenity experienced by the receptor(s), who are likely to have medium or
high susceptibility to that type of change. For example, this level of effect
may arise from the permanent obstruction or interruption of a highly
valued
view.

Moderate The Project will result in a noticeable change in the visual amenity
experienced by the receptor(s), who are likely to be of medium
susceptibility to that type of change. For example, this level of effect may
arise from a large-scale but temporary change in a view, or a smaller
change affecting a highly valued view.

Minor The Project will result in a small change in the visual amenity experienced
by the receptor(s), who may be of lower susceptibility to that type of
change. For example, this level of effect may arise from a larger-scale but
temporary change in a view that is not highly valued, or a very small
change experienced by higher-susceptibility receptors.

Negligible The Project will not result in a noticeable change in the visual amenity
experienced by the receptor(s).

Table 1.2 Level of Visual Impact effects

Direction of Effects

The direction of effect (positive, negative or neutral) is determined in relation to the degree to
which the proposal fits with landscape character and the contribution to the landscape or visual
32
amenity that the development makes. For the purposes of this assessment, the precautionary
principle indicates that the presence of the test site should be considered a negative change in the
context of this highly scenic and nationally designated landscape.

Assumption and Limitation

The realistic worst-case, will be described in final report has been determined in order to identify
the maximum likely significant effects of the project envelope, and to provide enough information
to enable an informed decision to be taken.
No details of phasing can be determined, since this is dependent on developer interest: there may
be periods of intense activity in the test site; or there may be periods when few or even no
devices are installed.

Existing conditions

As of January 2022,Giragala village is famous as tourist area with highly crowded. The hill area is a
maximum of 2 square km from the main road, covers around 2km2.The propose test site is 6 km
from north to south and cover araound 11 square km of the sea. the off shore part is minimum of
around 900m from the coast. The test site proposed to consist of open sea with a number of
features that are visible to observes on nearby land

33
 Figure 1.4: Existing view of Proposed location

Selection of Viewpoints for Assessment

This section sets out the viewpoints selected to represent views from publicly accessible areas for
the receptors identified above. They have been used to inform the assessment of visual effects
on the potential receptors identified.
The selection of viewpoints was informed by field work and desk-based research (including a
consideration of access and recreation across the local area, vantage points and the distribution of
settlements). These viewpoints are representative of the range of views, viewing experiences and
types of viewer which may potentially be affected by the project
A total of six viewpoints were selected and will be agreed in consultation with relevant authorities
Details of the viewpoints are are shown in Figure 2.

34
View point selection

View Receptor and When Photograph

point activity of facing to
receptor being the sea
reprecented

Viewpoint Popular hill top West

1 location with area
offering
elevated views
of north east
across the test
site

Viewpoint Elevated view South

2 from outer area
town

View Hilltop East area

Point 3 viewpoint close
to the test site
and overlooking
the whole area.
The observation
will be
associated with
the SLOT.well
used by local
people as well
as visitors

35
 View
point 4

Proposed sea
level viewpoint
on

Tale 1.3 Selected viewpoints

Location Sensitivity Magnitude Level of effect

Viewpoint 1 High Medium Moderate

Viewpoint 2 High Medium Moderate

Viewpoint 3 High Low Minor

Viewpoint 4 High Low Minor

Tale 1.4 Summary of the viewpoint assessment

The viewpoints assessment examined effects on receptor at four locations. The receptors at these
locations are mainly recreational users of the landscape, including walkers on the coastal path, hill-
walkers and visitors to the beach, as well as members of the community in the settled part of the
study area around outfrowned to their occupation and interest I their landscape surrounding,
susceptibility was judged to be high, and value was also judge to be high due to the the spectacular
nature of view.

36
4.4Device and Operation

SLOT will be established to support the development of renewable energy industry.

Testing of single, multiple and arrays of wave energy converters (WECs) and components at the
open-sea test facilities at Mirissa will be developed the opportunity to assess their device
performance, survivability and reliability. The activities and deployments expected to occur at
SLOT are listed in the Project Envelope as follows:

• “Testing activities associated with single devices and arrays deployments, including
installation, maintenance and decommissioning works.

• Installation, maintenance, and testing of subsea cables.

• Testing of device components.
• Buoys and scientific instrument/equipment deployments and surveys.
• Marine works including site preparation and simultaneous operations.”

This assessment does not include any onshore infrastructure, and all installations and activities
(with the exception of boat movements to and from the site) will take place within the test site,

The extent and level of effects on landscape and views is considered to be most closely related to
the following parameters:
• The size of devices deployed in the test site (length, width and height above sea level), as
well as their form and colour;
• The number of devices deployed in the test site at any one time;
• The size and form of different devices deployed simultaneously, and the resulting
composition of the test site
• The likely change in deployed devices during the 20-year consent period;
• Installed lighting across the test site; and
• The activities associated with installation and decommissioning of each device.

4.5Lighting and Marking

All devices and equipment deployed in the test site will need to be marked and lit in accordance
with marine safety standards, and this will be specified by the relevant regulatory authorities. For
the purposes of the SLOT, it is assumed that all devices and equipment will be painted yellow
and will be fitted with flashing lights similar in brightness to those attached to the existing
cardinal buoys. It is assumed that flashing patterns will not be coordinated across different
devices. The lighting characteristics of specific projects will be detailed within the Project-specific
Environmental Monitoring Program, will be submitted as supporting documentation to marine
license

37
applications. In addition, photographs will be provided following installation to illustrate the day
and night time characteristics of the project.
The lighting characteristics of specific projects will be detailed within the Project-specific
Environmental Monitoring Programme, provided as supporting information to marine license
applications. Photographs will be provided following installation to illustrate the day and nighttime
characteristics of the project

Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude Level of effect

View point 1 to Matara side Medium Medium Low

View point 2 to Colombo side Medium Medium Low

View point 3 to bay side Medium Medium Low

View point 4 to land side High High Medium

View point 4 to lHotel side High High Medium

Tale 1.4 Summary of effects on landscape receptors

4.6Realistic worst-case Scenario

This defines the ‘realistic worst-case’ development scenario, based on the above summary of the
Project Envelope, which has been assessed in the SLOT. The scenario assumes that:

• The development will comprise up to 20 separate WECs (single devices, components or

assemblages), all of which are assumed to be floating or surface piercing;

• The devices/components will be grouped around five berths, which are assumed to be
spaced across the entire test site;
•
• variety of forms, types and sizes of devices/components will be present, though it is
assumed that all devices/components will be at or approaching the maximum dimensions

• In addition to the 20 devices/components, the scenario assumes the presence of two

floating platforms and ten electrical hubs, and a number of smaller scientific instruments

• All devices/components and other equipment will be painted yellow, and will be fitted with

38
 flashing yellow lights with a nominal range of three nautical miles (5.6km) – flashing
patterns are assumed to vary between devices;

• The arrangement of WECs will change on a regular basis over the consent period, with
WECs being installed or decommissioned on average every six months
• During each installation or decommissioning procedure, large vessels will be on site for up
to one month at a time; and
• Operations using smaller vessels (up to 30m) will take place on a weekly basis.

4.7Potential Sources of Effects

Sources of operational effects on the seascape/landscape and views will include:
• The presence of a number of WEC devices, components, buoys, platforms and other
equipment in an area of sea, over a 20-year period;
• The interrelationships between different device types, and the changing combinations of
devices over time;
• The presence of lighting in an area of sea; and
Operational activities taking place in the sea on a regular basis over a 20-year period.

39
5.0RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1MRED developer responsibilities

• The MRED developer is directly responsible for providing an adequate level of failure risk
protection by means of;

o Reducing all safety risks to as low as reasonably practical during the design and
construction phases.

o Designing measures aimed at controlling risks in the installation phase which cannot
be completely eliminated.

o Notifying SLOT of all changes that affect the risk levels and their corrective
measures.

• Consequently, compliance with this guide does not relieve MRED developers/researchers
from responsibilities in safety matters.

• The MRED developer/researcher shall be liable for any direct damage caused by their
MRED, installation and maintenance support vessels including damage to SLOT’s facilities,
navigation buoys, people, other MREDs or the environment.

• The MRED developer shall be responsible not only for the safety of their MREDs during the
installation, operation and decommissioning, but also for providing maintenance
procedures aimed at minimising the risks caused by their MREDs.
• Finally, compliance with this guide does not discharge from the duty to comply with other
applicable regulations, such as those regarding labour issues or Port Authority towing
requirements. The developer shall be responsible for the knowledge and compliance with
other applicable regulations.

5.2SLOT Responsibilities

• SLOT responsibilities toward MRED developers/researchers are as follows;

• Navigational safety: SLOT will be responsible for the correct operation of all equipment
related to navigational safety, such as marking systems and infrastructure monitoring
systems and for the availability of support and rescue vessels and their crews.

• Keep onshore and offshore facilities in an adequate operational status: SLOT will be
responsible to keep in adequate operational status all facilities offered to the MRED
developers/researchers, according to contractual terms.

40
• Calibration of all infrastructure measurement and protection equipment: measurement
and protection equipment will be calibrated by SLOT, according to recognised standards
and protocols.

• Operational environmental plan: SLOT is responsible for the execution of the

operational environmental surveillance and campaigns as required by relevant
Authorities.

• Administrative Consenting: SLOT will be responsible for keeping all administrative

permits required by relevant Administration.

41
CONCLUSION

This study/project has presented and analyzed the targets and forecasts for establishing SLOT
center at selected location for the betterment of the Sri Lanka’s renewable energy rise to achieve
sustainable development goal of enhance renewable energy by 70% from total electricity energy
requirement in year 2030.

In this project to help overcome permitting, licensing and environmental issues by facilitating
exchange of information between stakeholders and other target audiences.

This project will encourage such an exchange of experiences among project developers and other
industry stakeholders, paving the way for more efficient, streamlined planning and development of
wave energy in Sri Lanka.

After establishing of SLOT there will be direct involvement for foreign economy as well as local
economy of the country by;

• Availability of cost effective/efficient WECs or MREDs developers/researchers to test

their devices with five stages of tests facilities.

• The developers/researchers in all over the world arrive to Sri Lanka for their tests;
especially SLOT will be the first Ocean Test Center in Asian region or Indian Ocean.

• Also there will be tourism attractions while commissioning SLOT, launching/installing

WECs or MREDs, laying submarine cables and marine constructions ect.

Preparation of documentation together with stakeholders’ consultations for against protect

environment pollutions. The SLIVIA has identified a number of effects on coastal character on visual
amenity. These effects will occur primarily along limited sections on coastal landscape in close
proximity to the test site and will be experienced by higher sensitivity receptors. For the majority of
landscape and visual receptors in the study area, the overall effects of the test site are likely to
minor

As further developments will be get consultant’s recommendation for the implementation of the
test site. Proposed layout drawn with many of studies in same capacity implementation in
European countries.

42
List of Reference

Sri Lankan wave energy resource assessment and characteristion base on IEC standards
R.LK.Lokuliyana,M.Folley,S.D.G.S.P Gunawardane, P.N.Wickramanayake
Department mechanical Engineering,Faculty of Engineering,University of Peradeniya,20400,Sri
Lanka

43
https://mepa.gov.lk/dumping-permit/

https://cea.lk/web/environmental-protection-licensing

44
APPENDIX 1

ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
Method for Assessing Landscape Effects
Judging the significance of landscape effects requires consideration of the nature of the landscape
receptors (sensitivity) and the nature of the effect on those receptors (magnitude).
Nature of Receptors (Sensitivity) 7.2 GLVIA3 states that the nature of landscape receptors,
commonly referred to as their sensitivity, should be assessed in terms of the susceptibility of the
receptor to the type of change proposed and the value attached to the resource.
Susceptibility means “the ability of the landscape receptor (whether it be the overall character or
quality/condition of a particular type or area, or an individual element and/or feature, or a
particular aesthetic and perceptual aspect) to accommodate the proposed development without
undue consequences for the maintenance of the baseline situation and/or the achievement of
landscape planning policies and strategies” (GLVIA3 para 5.40).
Judgements on susceptibility of receptors (which may include individual features or areas) are
recorded as high, medium or low according to Table 7.1.

Susceptibility Definition

High The landscape receptor is less able to

accommodate the type of development
proposed without undue negative
consequences to the baseline situation.
Attributes that make up the character of the
landscape offer limited opportunities for
accommodating the change without key
characteristics being fundamentally altered,
leading to a different landscape character.

Medium The landscape receptor is partly able to

accommodate the development without undue
negative consequences to the baseline
situation. Attributes that make up the
character of the landscape offer some
opportunities for accommodating the change
without key characteristics being
fundamentally altered.

Low The landscape receptor is more able to

accommodate the development without undue
45
 negative consequences to the baseline
situation. Attributes that make up the
character of the landscape are resilient to
being changed by the type of development
proposed

Susceptibility of Landscape Receptors

Value of the landscape resource is determined with reference to:

• a review of designations, and the level of policy importance that they signify (such as landscapes
designated at international, national or local level); and

• application of criteria that indicate value (such as landscape quality, scenic quality, rarity,
representativeness, conservation interests, recreation value, perceptual aspects, associations e.g.
with artists or writers).
National-level landscape designations, such as National Scenic Areas, generally indicate landscape
of higher value. There is, however, variation across both designated and undesignated areas, and
so judgements regarding value are also informed by fieldwork and by the defined special qualities
of the designated area.

High Areas or features designated at a national level

e.g. National Scenic Areas, and which
contribute to the defined special qualities of
the area. Landscapes with high
scenic/recreational value, and/or high
conservation interest. Landscapes that are rare
or unique

Medium Areas or features designated at a local level

e.g. local authority designated landscapes, or
areas/features within national designations
that do not contribute to their special qualities.
Landscapes with some scenic/recreational
value, or cultural associations, or features
which are rare at a local level.

Local Areas or features that are not formally

designated but may be valued at a local level.
Landscapes which may have limited aesthetic
qualities or are of a character that is
widespread.

Table Definitions of Landscape Value

46
It should be noted that whilst landscape designations at an international or national level are likely
to be accorded the highest value, it does not necessarily follow that such landscapes all have a high
susceptibility to change. There may be a complex relationship between the value attached to a
landscape and its susceptibility to change. Therefore the rationale for judgements on the sensitivity
of the landscape is clearly set out for each receptor based on these components.
Nature of Effect (Magnitude)
The nature of the effect on each landscape receptor (magnitude) is reported in terms of its scale,
geographical extent, duration and reversibility.
For landscape character areas, the scale of change depends on the degree to which the character
of the landscape is changed through removal of existing landscape components or addition of new
ones. Of particular concern is how the changes affect the key characteristics of the landscape.

Judging the Level of effect

47
Method for Assessing Visual Effects
Visual effects are experienced by people at different locations around the study area. Visual
receptors are the people who will be affected by changes in views at different places, and they are
usually grouped by what they are doing at that place (residents, motorists, recreational users, etc.)

48
Judging the significance of visual effects requires consideration of the nature of the visual receptors
(sensitivity) and the nature of the effect on those receptors (magnitude).

Nature of Receptors (Sensitivity)

nature of visual receptors, commonly referred to as their sensitivity, should be assessed in terms of
the susceptibility of the receptor to changes in the views they experience, and the value attached
to those views.
The susceptibility of visual receptors to changes in views/visual amenity is a function of their
occupation or activity, and the extent to which their attention is focussed on views (GLVIA3, para
6.32). This is recorded as high, medium or low

Susceptibility Receptor Group

High Communities where views contribute to the

landscape setting enjoyed by residents; people
engaged in outdoor recreation (including users
of footpaths whose interest is likely to be
focussed on the landscape); visitors to heritage
assets or other attractions where views of
surroundings are an important contributor to
experience.

Medium Travellers on roads, or who otherwise have a

passing interest in their surroundings.

Low People engaged in outdoor sport or recreation

which does not depend upon appreciation of
views of the landscape; people at their place of
work whose attention is not on their
surroundings

Recognition of the value of a view is determined with reference to:

• recognised importance in relation to heritage assets or planning designations;

• the value attached to views by visitors, for example through appearances in guide books or on
tourist maps, or provision of facilities such as interpretation boards; and/or

• references to the view in literature and art.

Judgements on value of views are recorded as of high, medium and local value according to
49
 Value Definition

High Views associated with nationally designated

landscapes (perhaps identified in special
qualities), or a view promoted as particularly
scenic and which may be regularly used in guide
books for that part of the country.

Medium Views associated with locally designated

landscapes, or which are locally promoted
perhaps through the provision of seating or
interpretation.

Local Views associated with core paths or scenic

views within undesignated landscapes.

Nature of Effect (Magnitude)

The nature of the effect on visual receptors (magnitude) is reported in terms of its scale,
geographical extent, and duration/reversibility
The scale of change depends on:

• the extent of the loss or addition of features within the view, and changes in its composition
including the proportion of the view occupied by the development;

• the degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape with the
existing or remaining landscape elements and characteristics in terms of form, scale and mass, line,
height, colour and texture; and/or

• the nature of the view of the development, in terms of whether views will be full, partial or
glimpsed.

Judging the Levels of Effect

As for landscape effects, the evaluations of the individual aspects set out above (susceptibility,
value, scale, geographical extent, duration and reversibility) are considered together to provide an
overall profile of each identified effect. An overview is then taken of the distribution of judgements
for each aspect to make an informed professional assessment of the overall level of effect,

50
importance of each aspect feeds into the overall decision. Levels of effect are identified as
negligible, minor, moderate or major. indicates how these various components are combined to
inform the overall level of effect.
The levels of effect used in this SLVIA are defined as shown in below

Major The development will result in an obvious and

widespread change in the visual amenity
experienced by the receptor(s), who are likely
to have medium or high susceptibility to that
type of change. For example, this level of effect
may arise from the permanent obstruction or
interruption of a highly valued view.

Moderate The development will result in a noticeable

change in the visual amenity experienced by
the receptor(s), who are likely to be of medium
susceptibility to that type of change. For
example, this level of effect may arise from a
large-scale but temporary change in a view, or
a smaller change affecting a highly valued view.

Minor The development will result in a small change

in the visual amenity experienced by the
receptor(s), who may be of lower susceptibility
to that type of change. For example, this level
of effect may arise from a larger scale but
temporary change in a view that is not highly
valued, or a very small change experienced by
higher-susceptibility receptors.

51