Paragraph 27 Pre-construction monitoring and surveys

(1)

The undertaker must in discharging condition 22(1)(f) for construction submit a monitoring plan in accordance with the outline offshore in-principle monitoring plan for written approval by the MMO in consultation with the relevant SNCB, which must contain details of proposed surveys, including methodologies and timings, and a proposed format and content for a pre-construction baseline report and—

(a)

the survey proposals must be in accordance with the principles set out in the outline offshore in-principle monitoring plan and must specify each survey’s objectives and explain how it will assist in either informing a useful and valid comparison with the post-construction position or will enable the validation or otherwise of key predictions in the environmental statement; and

(b)

the baseline report proposals must ensure that the outcome of the agreed surveys together with existing data and reports are drawn together to present a valid statement of the preconstruction position, with any limitations, and must make clear what postconstruction comparison is intended and the justification for this being required.

(2)

Subject to receipt from the undertaker of specific proposals pursuant to this condition, the pre-construction survey proposals must comprise, in outline—

(a)

a full sea floor coverage swath–bathymetry survey of the Order limits and a buffer outside, that meets the requirements of IHO S44ed6 Order 1a, to—

(i)

determine the location, extent and composition of any biogenic or geogenic reef features, as set out within the outline offshore in-principle monitoring plan;

(ii)

inform future navigation risk assessments as part of the cable specification and installation plan; and

(iii)

inform the identification of any archaeological exclusion zone and post consent monitoring of any such archaeological exclusion zone;

(b)

a bathymetric survey that meets the requirements of IHO S44ed6 Order 1a of the area within the Order Limits within which it is proposed to carry out construction works.

(3)

The pre-construction survey(s) carried out pursuant to sub-paragraphs (2)(a) and (2)(b) must fulfil the requirements of MGN654 and its supporting ‘Hydrographic Guidelines for Offshore Renewable Energy Developer’ (as relevant).

(4)

The undertaker must carry out the surveys specified within the approved monitoring plan or plans in accordance with that plan or plans, unless otherwise agreed in writing by the MMO in consultation with the relevant SNCB.

(5)

Following completion of a survey carried out pursuant to this condition and prior to construction of the relevant stage, the undertaker must provide a report and full density data of the survey outcomes to the MMO, the relevant SNCB, the MCA and UK Hydrographic Office as relevant.