11/02/10 The Value of Scoping Opinions: the Tower Hamlets approach Peter Cole September 23 rd 2010

11/02/10 Context Key Environmental Sensitivities: Transport Micro-climate Townscape and Visual Construction Noise and Dust Large social and economic inequalities Densely populated area Cumulative impacts

11/02/10 Why do we need to Scope? Identify baseline data and survey requirements Ensure agreement & avoid delays later Ensure a concise ES is produced Focus on key environmental issues for Tower Hamlets Cost effective for both developer and LPA (less Reg. 19’s) Reassurance for consultees and public More chance of good design from outset

11/02/10 Tight TimescaleScoping Report Prepared 5 Week Turnaround Setting the Scene

11/02/10 5 Weeks Later No response? Generic Response bearing little relation to submitted Scoping Report? With 2 months left until application submission, how do you proceed?

11/02/10 Challenges for the LPA Lack of Capacity, e.g. no EIA Officer, EHO workloads Generic Responses Infrequently Updated Lack of Contact from Applicant Pre-Scoping Report Submission Tight timescales Generic or conflicting advice from Consultees

11/02/10 Tower Hamlets Approach Scrapped existing templates and developed Scoping Guidance and a new Scoping Opinion Template EIA Guidance Document Residing online within ‘Pre-Application Advice’ on Tower Hamlets Planning Website (web link) 650/608_development_control/pre- application_advice/eia_scoping_guidance.aspx Input from EIA Practitioners, Council Planners and Technical Officers

11/02/10 Aims of LBTH Scoping Guidance: Proactive approach to opinions Highlighting key Tower Hamlets issues to address Signal appropriate EIA methodologies Stimulate discussion with Applicants Template: Ensures bespoke response, focussing on any departures from LBTH Scoping Guidance

11/02/10 Is it Working? Too early to tell as although it became ‘operational’ in May 2010, the first scheme scoped using the new process has only just been submitted (currently reviewing the ES). However, Awareness amongst Applicants has increased (and their Agents/ EIA Consultants) Has encouraged communication (hopefully before Scoping Report submitted in the future) Has resulted in a more tailored Scoping Opinion Service Monitoring Impact on ES quality Plans to update Scoping Guidance annually

11/02/10 Questions....

11/02/10 CC Adaptation Principles Consultation IEMA is currently consulting on its ‘Climate Change Adaptation and EIA’ principles in draft form. Consultation closes on the 15 th October The draft principles can be found at: CCAdaptation_%26EIA_IEMA_Sept10.pdf Wider information can be found at: