49.


The sensitivity of biotopes has been assessed using the methodology developed by the Marine Life Information Network (MarLIN) and through the examination of online resources or through published research (Tyler-Walters et al. 2004 and 2011). With regard to the sensitivity of species, similarities between impacts caused by windfarms and the aggregates industry have been assumed.


Table 10.6. Definitions of the different Sensitivity Levels for Benthic Ecology Sensitivity


Definition High Medium Low Negligible


Individual receptor (species or habitat) has very limited or no capacity to accommodate, adapt or recover from the anticipated impact.


Individual receptor (species or habitat) has limited capacity to accommodate, adapt or recover from the anticipated impact.


Individual receptor (species or habitat) has some tolerance to accommodate, adapt or recover from the anticipated impact.


Individual receptor (species or habitat) is generally tolerant to and can accommodate or recover from the anticipated impact.


10.4.3.2 Value 50.


In addition, the ‘value’ of the receptor forms an important element within the assessment for instance if the receptor is a protected species or habitat or has an economic value. Example definitions of the value levels for benthic ecology receptors are given in Table 10.7.


Table 10.7. Definitions of the Value Levels for Benthic Ecology receptors Value


Definition High


Medium Low


Negligible 51.


Internationally or nationally important Regionally important or internationally rare Locally important or nationally rare


Not considered to be particularly important or rare


It is important to understand that high value and high sensitivity are not necessarily linked within a particular impact. A receptor could be of high value (e.g. Annex I habitat) but have a low or negligible physical/ecological sensitivity to an effect. Similarly, low value does not equate to low sensitivity and is judged on a receptor by receptor basis.


10.4.3.3 Magnitude 52.


The magnitude of effect has been considered in terms of the spatial extent, duration and timing (seasonality and / or frequency of occurrence) of the effect in question.


Preliminary Environmental Information May 2014


East Anglia THREE Offshore Windfarm


Chapter 10 Benthic Ecology Page 27


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