Environmental considerations:
We have undertaken an initial assessment of a wide range of potential environmental considerations relating to the project. At this point, we are working with South Tyneside Council to understand and explore the scope of these considerations. Before submitting our planning application to the Council, we will finalise an Environmental Impact Assessment to highlight all of these considerations, and where there is likely to be an adverse effect, propose measures to balance and this effect on surrounding communities, landscape, wildlife and heritage. The environmental considerations we have assessed fall into two categories – both of which are explained in more detail below:
Key environmental considerations:
- Built heritage: There are important historic sites within 5km of the site, including Hadrian’s Wall (a World Heritage Site), scheduled monuments, listed buildings, and conservation areas. However, construction is not expected to cause significant harm to these sites. The proposed 202m high structure could affect the surroundings and views of Hadrian’s Wall and historic sites in Jarrow. This requires further assessment, where the development’s visibility from key viewpoints will be analysed. The full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will follow national heritage guidelines and consider planning policies. As part of this, a Heritage Statement will provide a detailed analysis of historical records, maps, and site visits to assess potential heritage impacts to ensure these are minimised as plans progress.
- Ground conditions: Part of the Port of Tyne site was registered as a landfill in the 1980s, landfill deposits are understood to be approximately 8.4m deep. Our initial investigations indicate that this could include domestic, commercial, and industrial waste. The site’s brownfield status, and the fact that the land is relatively compressed, means significant effects are unlikely.
- Landscape and visual effects: The likely landscape and visual effects associated with the development during construction include:
- Loss of existing vegetation during demolition and site clearance.
- A tangible presence of construction activity and cranes within the site.
- A reduction in local ‘tranquillity’ because of construction.
- During operations, the tower would be a prominent new feature within the landscape, visible both locally and from a distance.
For more detailed information on each of these considerations, you can find the consultation document here.
Other environmental considerations:
After reviewing carefully, we do not anticipate any significant effects in the following areas. However, we would welcome feedback on any of these areas if you feel they could impact you. To provide this feedback, you can access the online feedback form here.
- Air quality
- Archaeology
- Major accidents and disasters
- Ecology and biodiversity
- Greenhouse gas and climate change
- Noise and vibration
- Traffic and transport
- Water environment
- Wind microclimate
- Waste
