Item8Appendix2HRA20230357DETDeesideWay

This document contains a habitats regulations appraisal for a proposed new footpath and cycleway that is part of a long-term plan to connect Braemar to the Deeside Way in the Cairngorms National Park. The appraisal considers the potential impact of the project on three European sites: River Dee Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Ballochbuie SAC, and Ballochbuie Special Protection Area (SPA). The appraisal identifies potentially significant effects on Atlantic salmon, freshwater pearl mussels, and otters in the River Dee SAC; Caledonian forest, blanket bog, wet heathland and plant species in crevices within the Ballochbuie SAC; and capercaillie and Scottish crossbill in the Ballochbuie SPA. The document recommends a number of mitigation measures, including a site-specific pollution prevention plan, an otter survey, an arboricultural method statement and signage, to avoid adverse effects on site integrity. The appraisal concludes that if these measures are put in place, the project can proceed without harming the protected habitats and species.