We ensure the baseline data is robust, agree principles and methodologies with stakeholders to ensure high quality, sound assessments. We recognise the interrelationships between the Environmental Impact Assessment and the HRA and look for efficiencies, dependencies and coordination with developing the assessments in parallel, whilst recognising the distinct requirements.
The first stage of the challenge is to avoid issues by designing out conflicts, understanding potential problems and providing a robust evidence base, these are the bedrock of a solid HRA case. If there are continued disagreement with stakeholders over effects, then the sound evidence base and Royal HaskoningDHV expertise and experience, provide the basis for meeting this challenge successfully.
- Royal HaskoningDHV marine mammal specialists developed the innovative Site Integrity Plan (SIP) as a method of securing mitigation commitments to allow for a conclusion of no adverse effect on integrity for the East Anglia THREE Offshore Wind Farm during its Examination.
- Royal HaskoningDHV developed the full derogation case for the Norfolk Vanguard Offshore Wind Farm, including the alternatives case, Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest (IROPI) arguments and compensation measures agreed with Natural England (but not ultimately required).
- Royal HaskoningDHV lead the HRA for Wylfa Newydd New Nuclear Build and progressed the derogation case early to minimise the risk to programme. This precaution included early engagement with statutory bodies to discuss compensation measures design and we developed the Compensation Strategy. At Examination, the derogation case was requested ‘without prejudice’ and presented as evidence.
- For the Bathside Bay Port Development Royal HaskoningDHV developed and secured a compensation scheme with early stakeholder engagement. Royal HaskoningDHV provided expert witness during the public inquiry and the port development was awarded consent.
- Royal HaskoningDHV pioneered the Evidence Plan Process to provide an audit trail of stakeholder agreements and the basis for Statements of Common Ground which is now adopted as common practice.
In line with Secretary of State advice, we include early preparation for the potential for HRA derogation prior to submission of the Development Consent Order (DCO).
