Annex A

Annex
A

A.1         Aims, Scope and Format of the Proposed Consultation

A.1.1     Scope

  1. As part of post-Scoping engagement for the Array, it is envisaged that the Applicant will require to engage with key stakeholders on an as-needed basis to ensure delivery or a proportionate and transparent Application, taking into account new guidance and methodologies provided by MS-LOT, MSS and NatureScot where possible. Section A.2 outlines the current known stakeholders that Ossian anticipate will require engagement in line with the key topics outlined within this dSEP, and section A.3 sets out the key topics and issues that may require discussion and agreement.
  2. This dSEP has been developed to optimise those EIA topic areas where it is considered that there is the greatest need for post-scoping engagement based on high consent risk, uncertainty around EIA methods and technical assessments including agreeing key assessment approaches and parameters, HRA considerations including derogation and compensation development and discussions around the adequacy of baseline data.
  3. It is proposed that the key topic areas that will be consulted on as per the approach set out in this dSEP are as follows:
  • Marine mammal ecology;
  • Subsea noise (captured within the marine mammal consultation);
  • Ornithology; and
  • Shipping and Navigation
  1. Details of the key areas for discussion are set out within Annex Table 1.3   Open ▸ . It is currently considered that benthic ecology and fish and shellfish ecology will require less post scoping engagement and it is therefore proposed that this be excluded from the approach set out within the dSEP subject to receipt of the advice received within the Scoping Opinion. 
  2. Other EIA topics not considered within this dSEP will be subject to their own consultation process as agreed with relevant stakeholders.
    1.          Key Stakeholders
  3. The following organisations are considered key stakeholders to the Ossian Array:
  • MS-LOT;
  • MSS;
  • NatureScot;
  • RPSB;
  • MCA;
  • NLB;
  • SFF;
  • SWFPA; and
  • NECRIFG.
  1. Annex Table 1.1   Open ▸ sets out the remit and role in the context of the EIA/and HRA processes for each of the stakeholders listed above.
  2. The Applicant  will maintain an up-to-date list of key contacts/case offices for each organisation listed in Annex Table 1.1   Open ▸ and it is assumed said organisations will engage technical specialists as required throughout the consultation process.

 

Annex Table 1.1:
Remit and Role of Key Stakeholders

Annex Table 1.1   Open ▸ : Remit and Role of Key Stakeholders

 

A.3         Programme

A.3.1     Anticipated Ossian Array Programme

  1. Annex Table 1.2   Open ▸ below provides an indicative programme for key stages of the Ossian Array pre-application process.

 

Annex Table 1.2:
Indicative Array EIA and HRA Programme

Annex Table 1.2   Open ▸ :  Indicative Array EIA and HRA Programme

 

A.3.2     Anticipated Need for Stakeholder Discussions

  1. Annex Table 1.3   Open ▸ sets out indicative anticipated requirement for focused stakeholder feedback/engagement in relation to key aspects of each technical topic of the Ossian Array pre-Application development. Any updates to this table will be clearly communicated in advance, and in good time, to all relevant stakeholders to optimise the stakeholder engagement process.
  2. Each of the shaded cells in Annex Table 1.3   Open ▸ relates to one meeting for the specific topic detailed, with each meeting anticipated to last no longer than two hours.

 

Annex Table 1.3:
Indicative Anticipated Stakeholder Engagement Requirement (Subject to Receipt of Scoping Opinion) (SN = Subsea Noise, MM = Marine Mammals, CR – Cumulative Routeing, HW – Hazard Workshop, OR – Ornithology and DR – Derogation)

Annex Table 1.3   Open ▸ : Indicative Anticipated Stakeholder Engagement Requirement (Subject to Receipt of Scoping Opinion) (SN = Subsea Noise, MM = Marine Mammals, CR – Cumulative Routeing, HW – Hazard Workshop, OR – Ornithology and DR – Derogation)