Project Description Statement

PA 04065/10
INSTALLATION OF PONTOONS FOR THE BERTHING OF BOATS AND RELATED
INFRASTRUCTURE
PROJECT DESCRIPTION STATEMENT
Version 1: April 2012
Report Reference:
Adi Associates Environmental Consultants Ltd, 2012. Installation of
pontoons for the berthing of boats and related infrastructure. Project
Description Statement. San Gwann, April 2012; vi + 22 pp.
THIS IS A DIGITAL COPY OF THE REPORT.
RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT – KEEP IT DIGITAL
i
Quality Assurance
Installation of pontoons for the berthing of boats and related infrastructure
Project Description Statement
April 2012
Report for:
S & D Yachts (Malta) Ltd
Revision Schedule
Rev
00
Date
April 2012
Details
Written by:
Checked by:
Approved by:
Submission to Client
Andrea Pace
Planning Assistant
Adrian Mallia
Director
Adrian Mallia
Director
File ref: Document2
This document has been prepared in accordance with the scope
of Adi Associates‟ appointment with its client and is subject to the
terms of that appointment. It is addressed to and for the sole and
confidential use and reliance of Adi Associates‟ client.
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© Adi Associates Environmental Consultants Ltd 2012
iii
CONTENTS
Introduction.................................................................................................................................................. 1
Background ................................................................................................................................................... 1
Situation Analysis: The Yachting Market in the Mediterranean ........................................................ 1
The Yachting Industry in Malta................................................................................................................. 1
Site Selection ................................................................................................................................................ 3
Objectives of the Scheme.......................................................................................................................... 6
Benefits of the scheme ............................................................................................................................... 6
Location of Project ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Characteristics of the Application Site ................................................................................................... 9
Description of the General Surroundings ............................................................................................. 9
Planning Policy .............................................................................................................................................. 9
Description of the Scheme .....................................................................................................................10
Services ........................................................................................................................................................14
Operating hours ........................................................................................................................................14
Alternatives Considered ..........................................................................................................................14
Access & Parking .......................................................................................................................................14
Access ..........................................................................................................................................................14
Parking .........................................................................................................................................................14
Resources....................................................................................................................................................14
Energy ..........................................................................................................................................................14
Water...........................................................................................................................................................14
Waste and sewage ....................................................................................................................................14
Employment ................................................................................................................................................15
Project Timing............................................................................................................................................15
Machinery ....................................................................................................................................................15
Baseline surveys .........................................................................................................................................15
Marine ecology...........................................................................................................................................16
Marine archaeology ...................................................................................................................................16
Water quality .............................................................................................................................................18
Potential Environmental Impacts ...........................................................................................................20
Benthos........................................................................................................................................................21
Water quality .............................................................................................................................................21
Waste management ..................................................................................................................................21
Landscape and visual amenity .................................................................................................................21
Marine archaeology ...................................................................................................................................21
Traffic management ..................................................................................................................................21
Mitigation Proposals .................................................................................................................................22
v
FIGURES
Figure 1: Proposed yacht marinas in the Marsamxett harbour ........................................................ 7
Figure 2: Proposed yacht marina re-organisation and extension at Ta‟ Xbiex ............................. 8
Figure 3: Site location .............................................................................................................................. 11
Figure 3: Surrounding land uses ............................................................................................................ 12
Figure 5: Residential areas at Ta‟ Xbiex .............................................................................................. 13
Figure 6: Administrative facilities (embassies).................................................................................... 13
Figure 7: Agricultural land at Ta‟ Xbiex .............................................................................................. 13
TABLES
Table 1: Boat Ownership in the Mediterranean................................................................................... 1
Table 2: Number of berths in yacht marinas in Malta......................................................................... 2
Table 3: Number of new berths required in Malta ............................................................................. 3
Table 4: Discoveries at Lazaretto Creek ............................................................................................ 18
Table 5: Temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and water turbidity as reported at two fixed
monitoring stations on the 5 and 6th December 2011. Each reading being reported as
the mean of two replicates (plus standard deviation, SD) ..................................................... 19
Table 6: Chlorophyll a, dissolved nitrates and dissolved phosphates at the two fixed
monitoring stations on the 5 and 6th December 2011. Each reading is being reported as
the mean of two replicates (plus standard deviation, SD) ..................................................... 19
Table 7: Bacteriological quality at two fixed monitoring stations on the 5 and 6 th December
2011. Each reading is being reported as the mean of two replicates (plus standard
deviation, SD) ................................................................................................................................... 20
APPENDIX
Appendix 1: Plans
vi
PROJECT DESCRIPTION STATEMENT
INTRODUCTION
1.
This Project Description Statement (PDS) describes a proposal to install pontoons
for the berthing of yachts and related infrastructure at Ta‟ Xbiex (PA 04065/10). The
project proponent is S & D Yachts (Malta) Ltd (the Client). The project is hereafter
referred to as the “Scheme”.
BACKGROUND
2.
The yachting industry is well established in the Mediterranean. It is an important
contributor to many Mediterranean economies with some of the most popular
cruising grounds in the world located in the Mediterranean. These include the South
of France, the Italian Riviera, Sardinia, and the Greek Islands. Yachting activities are
also growing in Spain, Croatia and Turkey1.
Situation Analysis: The Yachting Market in the Mediterranean
3.
Table 1 illustrates the number of boats per capita in 2004 for a number of countries
in the Mediterranean as reported in a publication by the former MMA (now
Transport Malta - TM) and the Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport &
Communications (MITC). It includes the total number of boats owned throughout
Europe in that year.
Table 1: Boat Ownership in the Mediterranean
Country/Region
France
Italy
Spain
Greece
Turkey
Croatia
Mediterranean Sub Total
Total Europe (30 countries)
Number of Boats (2004)
938,000
800,000
160,000
68,200
56,400
52,800
2,075,400
5,990,000
Boats per head (2004) per 100
2.0
1.7
0.5
0.8
0.1
1.5
1.1
1.3
Source: MMA & MITC, 2009
The Yachting Industry in Malta
4.
1
The yachting industry provides added value to the national economy. As reported by
MMA & MITC (2009), stakeholders within the local industry estimate that on a 15
metre boat a local yacht owner spends an average of €15,000 per year, whilst on a
15 metre to 20 metre boat, visiting yacht owners are likely to spend between €4,000
and €6,000 in a week. Moreover, a super yacht on charter typically spends
Malta Maritime Authority; Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport & Communications. 2009. Development of
Yachting Facilities in Malta: Identification of Potential Sites for All-Weather Marinas and Temporary Marinas.
1
approximately €100,000 excluding refits or internal transport. In general, 10% of the
original value of a boat is spent in maintenance and operation.
5.
The total number of yachts registered in Malta and likely to require a local berth (as
at September 2008) was 2,284 (excluding visiting yachts). This compares to the total
national stock of 1,511 berths as shown in Table 2. There is also an estimated
yearly increase in yachts and boats seeking permanent berthing in Malta of
approximately 1072.
Table 2: Number of berths in yacht marinas in Malta
Msida
Total no. of berths
734
Up to 12m
551
Up to 16m
183
Up to 20m
Up to 24m
Over 24m
Total no. of berths
734
Max. boat length
16m
Source: MMA & MITC, 2009
Ta’
Xbiex
57
20
Gozo
204
194
10
Portomaso
110
79
15
204
16m
22
110
16m
Manoel
Island
120
Grand
Harbour
286
138
Total
1,511
30
7
57
40m
120
85m
104
44
286
100m
1,511
6.
In addition to the above available berths, the number of berths at the Manoel Island
marina (that forms part of the Manoel Island and Tigné Point development) is
expected to increase to 400 in the coming years.
7.
From these figures, it is evident that Malta is facing a supply problem and the present
demand currently exceeds supply in terms of available berths. Moreover, Malta is
facing fierce competition from competing countries that have been developing their
berthing capacity aggressively. For example, Italy‟s southern region currently
provides over 45,000 berths, Croatia supplies over 16,000 berths across 53 marinas
and Tunisia supplies just over 3,000 berths in around 28 marinas. New marinas are
also planned for.
8.
Table 3 illustrates MMA & MITC‟s (2009) predicted demand for permanent berths,
taking into consideration a number of factors including visits from foreign yachts and
Transport Malta‟s current local waiting list for berths.
2
Malta Maritime Authority; Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport & Communications. 2009. Development of
Yachting Facilities in Malta: Identification of Potential Sites for All-Weather Marinas and Temporary Marinas
2
Table 3: Number of new berths required in Malta
Category
Projected growth in demand from locally registered yachts for new berths
TM waiting list for local yachts
Request for winter berths by foreign yachts
Temporary visiting foreign yachts
Total
Source: MMA & MITC, 2009
9.
Number of Berths
750
250
150
150
1,300
Other factors that are also likely to influence future demand (whether positively or
negatively), as identified by MMA & MITC (2009), include:
Local increase in registration of commercial yachts;
Capacity building in France and Spain for larger vessels;
Supply affecting demand;
Fuel cost;
Increase in congestion increases demand for local small boats;
Bunkering advantage exhibited by non-EU countries (e.g. Tunisia) that are able to
offer duty free services;
Malta as a quality of life destination;
Branding;
Other national developments, e.g. Smart City, attracting high quality visitors; and
Global economic slowdown.
10.
The demands of the yachting industry have also been investigated and discussed in a
number of planning documents, including the Yachting Subject Study (Planning
Authority and Malta Maritime Authority, 1997), the Coastal Strategy Topic Paper
(2002), and the North Harbours Local Plan (2006).
Site Selection
11.
In light of this demand, Government has chosen to move in the direction of
developing additional marinas to supplement the existing supply. To this end,
numerous sites have been assessed for the potential development of marinas.
Reports that assess and/or discuss alternatives include:
Deloitte and Touche Consulting Group. 1996. Yachting Development in Malta;
Deloitte & Touche, AP, Adi Associates Ltd. 2005. Xemxija Bay: A Yacht Marina
Strategic Assessment;
Deloitte & Touche, AP, Adi Associates Ltd. 2006. Marsaskala Harbour Strategic
3
Planning Assessment for Marina Facilities;
ECORYS Netherlands. 2006. Feasibility and Environmental Impact Studies for
Maritime Transport Infrastructural Projects – Malta Phase D Report – Part 2; Strategic
Development Planning and Grand Harbour Zoning Plan;
Sciortino, J.A. 2007. Marsascala Marina Breakwater;
Colin Toms and Partners. 2008. Report on Outline Design for a New Breakwater at
Marsamxett Harbour;
Colin Toms and Partners. 2008. Report on Feasibility Study and Conceptual Design
for a New Breakwater at Kalkara Creek Preliminary Issue; and
Deloitte & Touche; AP; Adi Associates Ltd. 2008. Marsaskala Harbour & Xemxija
Development Studies.
12.
It is beyond the scope of this document to present in detail all the alternatives
considered including their advantages and disadvantages.
13.
The most recent report to look at alternative sites is the 2009 report Development of
Yachting Facilities in Malta: Identification of Potential Sites for All-Weather Marinas and
Temporary Marinas, published by MMA & MITC. This report, that included
stakeholder consultation, identifies potential sites for marina developments, including
permanent and temporary marinas. The site selection exercise was based on
environmental & planning, economic, and technical criteria.
14.
MMA & MITC (2009) considered and discussed the alternatives, advantages and
disadvantages for the development of permanent and/or temporary marinas at the
following sites:
Marsamxett, Sliema Creek;
Marsamxett, Ta‟ Xbiex;
Marsamxett, Pieta/Sa Maison;
Marsamxett, Valletta;
Marsamxett, Manoel Island;
Grand Harbour, Kalkara;
Grand Harbour, Menqa, Marsa;
St Paul‟s Bay, Fekruna;
St Paul‟s Bay, Veccja;
St Paul‟s Bay, Gillieru;
4
Marsaskala;
St Julian‟s; and
Birzebbuga, San Gorg.
15.
In line with the scope of this PDS, the alternatives explored at Marsamxett are
presented. This PDS describes the option along part of the Ta' Xbiex waterfront.
Other areas along the same waterfront at the existing Gzira Gardens Marina are the
subject of a separate application (PA 05468/10), which is the subject of a separate
PDS.
Different sites considered at Marsamxett
16.
Marsamxett was identified as a potential area for the development of yacht marinas,
both as part of the MMA & MITC (2009) study and during previous studies including
the 1996 Deloitte & Touche report. Sites considered include a marina at Sa Maison,
re-organisation of the berthing at Lazaretto Creek (Ta' Xbiex side), a marina at the
Sliema Ferries and along the Tigne coastline.
17.
Figure 1 illustrates the locations, and layouts considered for the development of
permanent marinas in Marsamxett Harbour.
18.
Figure 2 illustrates the proposed layouts and number of berths at the Ta‟ Xbiex side
of Lazaretto Creek as proposed in the MMA & MITC 2009 report. [Note that these
proposals have since been updated and the current proposals for the site (as included
in the respective planning applications) may be different].
19.
20.
Sliema
The MMA & MITC 2009 report proposed an all-weather yacht marina between
Sliema and Manoel Island provided that a breakwater is constructed off Tigne Point.
The development of the marina will have to address the problem of parking by
providing more space for parking and similar facilities through land reclamation. The
development will also have to relocate the small boat moorings close to the Manoel
Island Bridge and the 25 registered leisure cruise operators‟ boats. This proposed
marina will consist of 265 berths for 10 to 12m boats; 200 berths for 16 to 20m
boats and 31 berths for the 30 to 40m boats.
Pietà Creek/Sa Maison
The development of a marina in Pietà Creek was deemed to be subject to the
construction of breakwater protection. The MMA & MITC 2009 report proposed
two options, one option for a 470 berth marina and a second option for a marina
with a capacity for 369 berthing places. This proposal is subject of a separate
development permit process, for which an Environmental Impact Assessment is
currently underway (Ref.: GF00001/10).
5
21.
22.
23.
24.
Manoel Island
The CT& P report considered the development of marinas around Manoel Island.
The MIDI site is already in use and is situated along the Southern side of the Island.
The different sites at Manoel Island would sum up to 915 berths.
Valletta sites
The CT & P report identified Valletta‟s Marsamxett site as one with a potential for
yachting. The area is the one between Valletta‟s waterpolo pitch and the Grand
Hotel Excelsior. The use of this area was deemed to require a local breakwater and
land reclamation. It would accommodate 304 berthing places.
Ta‟ Xbiex
The MMA & MITC 2009 report identified that Ta‟ Xbiex marina could be extended
to accommodate another 99 berthing places to the existing 57 berths. The report
claims that this expansion is subject to the construction of a local breakwater that
would secure the MIDI marina too; however, wave climate studies undertaken by
MMA subsequent to that report showed that the wave conditions without the
breakwater would be within acceptable limits for the project subject of this PDS.
Currently the 57 berths accommodate the 16 to 20m boats.
The current application by S&D Yachts, which is the subject of this PDS, is for the
installation of three pontoons and creation of more berthing spaces in the area.
OBJECTIVES OF THE SCHEME
25.
The Scheme aims to support the yachting and boating sector in the Maltese Islands
through the provision of approximately 131 berthing spaces. The Scheme will hence
address some of the demand for berthing facilities in the Maltese Islands both for
local craft and to continue to attract foreign yachts and boats to the Islands; thus
helping to ensure that Malta remains competitive in this sector.
BENEFITS OF THE SCHEME
26.
Benefits arising from the implementation of the Scheme include:
National economic benefits accrued from the growth of the recreational maritime
sector;
Provision of new services for the maritime industry in the area;
National economic benefits accrued from the growth of the recreational maritime
sector; and
The area is already being used by vessels thus limiting the possible negative
environmental impacts arising from the development.
6
Figure 1: Proposed yacht marinas in the Marsamxett harbour
Source: MMA & MITC 2009
7
Figure 2: Proposed yacht marina re-organisation and extension at Ta’ Xbiex
Source: MMA & MITC 2009
8
LOCATION OF PROJECT
27.
The Scheme is located within Marsamxett Harbour, see Figure 3 below. The area
runs along the Ta‟ Xbiex waterfront.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE APPLICATION SITE
28.
The Application Site (including pontoons and berths) covers an area of 14,309m2.
The fairway around the proposed berthing area will cover an area of 19,114 m2. The
quayside is currently used for the berthing of boats and yachts.
29.
Access to the Site is currently from a road from Triq ix-Xatt immediately bordering
the Scheme.
DESCRIPTION OF THE GENERAL SURROUNDINGS
30.
The land uses surrounding the Application Site are described in Figure 4.
31.
Ta‟ Xbiex is a village in the North Harbour district which is composed of around
1,700 inhabitants. The area is mostly residential (see Figure 5) with some small local
commercial outlets. Examples include a small number of food & beverage outlets
along the waterfront. The area also has many offices and administrative facilities
(embassies) (see Figure 6).
32.
Ta‟ Xbiex also has a large pocket of un-built land which is mainly dedicated to
agriculture (see Figure 7).
PLANNING POLICY
33.
The locality of Ta‟ Xbiex is located in the North Harbours Local Plan (NHLP) area.
The Plan was approved in August 2006. The Ta‟ Xbiex Policy Map (Map GT01 of the
NHLP) does not provide any designation for the Site. However, the landside of the
Scheme has been designated as an Urban Conservation Area as has been proposed
by NHSE09.
34.
Policy NHRL04 dealt with Yachting and berthing Facilities. The policy refers to the
Yachting Marina Study that identified two potential sites to accommodate marinas:
Pietà Creek and Sliema Creek. The policy stipulates the need for an EIA and
measures to minimise adverse impacts and sets out the criteria that have to be met
in order for MEPA to permit such development. These criteria include;
a. Prior approval is obtained from the Malta Maritime Authority;
b. The site location is compatible with other adjacent land and water
users;
c. There is no adverse impact on the ecological, scientific and
archaeological value of the site;
9
d. They do not adversely affect any element or setting of their context;
e. Adequate off-road access is provided for the launching of boats
together with a parking area for cars and trailers; and
f. The location is not within a designated swimming area.
35.
Policy NHGT10 is about the existing Ta‟ Xbiex Marina and its surroundings. The
policy deals with issues of landscaping and pedestrian accessibility whilst pointing out
the benefits of the existing parking area for residents, businesses and promenaders
alike.
DESCRIPTION OF THE SCHEME
36.
The Scheme involves the setting up of three pontoons and additional mooring points
off the easternmost pontoon to increase the berthing spaces at the Ta‟ Xbiex Yacht
Marina. The Scheme will provide approximately 160 berths (the actual number will
depend on the size of boats accommodated on each pontoon). The berthing spaces
will range from 4 to 18 m. Current plans show 131 spaces with a provision of 92
spaces for 14m yachts; 12 spaces for 8m yachts; 25 spaces for 6m yachts and 2 spaces
for 4m yachts.
37.
The pontoons will consist of a galvanised steel frame with reinforced concrete coated
floats and wooden decking.
38.
The pontoon's sections are first assembled on land, after which they are lowered in
the sea by crane and bolted together. A soft connection will connect the middle
sections of the pontoon. Once complete, they are moored in place by a marine
work boat.
39.
Plans of the Scheme are provided in Appendix 1.
.
10
Figure 3: Site location
11
Figure 3: Surrounding land uses
12
Figure 5: Residential areas at Ta’ Xbiex
Figure 6: Administrative facilities (embassies)
Figure 7: Agricultural land at Ta’ Xbiex
13
Services
40.
There will be emergency points on each pontoon, each containing a fire extinguisher
and a life saving ring. Water and electricity service points will also be installed.
41.
The yacht marina will include coverage by CCTV cameras.
Operating hours
42.
The marina will operate throughout the week on a 24/7 basis, though the main
activity will be during daytime hours.
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
43.
The site was selected by MITC / MMA when identifying sites for temporary marinas
across the Maltese Islands. The 2009 report suggested an extension to the Ta‟ Xbiex
from 57 berths to 156 berths, see Figure 3. The rest of the projected increase in
berthing is subject to a separate development permit application submitted for the
reorganisation of the existing yacht marina and installation of a pontoon.
ACCESS & PARKING
Access
44.
The promenade adjacent to the Scheme will remain accessible and free of charge to
the general public at all times. Access to the Scheme is from the Ta‟ Xbiex
waterfront.
Parking
45.
The area between the quay and the public garden has car parking facilities that cater
for the needs of the marina, residents, businesses, and visitors. Areas in the vicinity
have time restricted parking zones (residents exempted).
RESOURCES
Energy
46.
The lights on the pontoons will consist of LED lighting and each pontoon will be
supplied with electricity.
Water
47.
Each pontoon will be supplied with mains water.
Waste and sewage
48.
Sewage from boats will be collected and disposed of on-demand by mobile bowers.
49.
Discharge of black water in ports, bays and marinas is regulated by MARPOL or SL
14
499.4. Currently grey water is not yet regulated and can still be discharged
overboard unless it contains pollutants. The disposal of wastes generated on boats
and yachts will be in line with Port Reception Facilities for Ship-generated Wastes
and Cargo Residues Regulations (SL 499.30). Antifouling can be another pollutant
that can have an adverse effect on water quality. The re-organisation of the Ta‟
Xbiex Marina will be in line with Regulation (EC) No 782/2003 on the prohibition of
organotin compounds on ships and the Merchant Shipping Notice (No. 76 - 7 Dec
2007). These regulations are covered by the pollution caused by dangerous
substances discharged into the aqueous environment Regulations (S.L. 504.20).
50.
Operational waste to be generated is likely to include domestic waste and sewage
from the moored boats, waste oils and oily rags, batteries, and similar waste streams.
Marina operational regulations will be drawn up and enforced for the operational
phase to ensure compliance with local legislations regarding waste disposal.
EMPLOYMENT
51.
The Scheme is expected to employ twenty persons during the construction phase
and 4 to 6 persons during the operational phase.
PROJECT TIMING
52.
It is the intention of the Client to start operating soon after the full development
permit is issued. Works will be completed 90 days after the receipt of the
equipment.
MACHINERY
53.
The machinery that will be needed for the installation of the pontoons will include;
o Crane;
o Diving equipment;
o Work boat.
BASELINE SURVEYS
54.
Baseline studies were recently carried out for an Environmental Impact Assessment
for a yacht marina being proposed by Transport Malta at Sa Maison / Pietà. The area
of study of these surveys encompassed the inner half of Marsamxett Harbour
including the Scheme site. A summary of the findings of the relevant studies is
presented below3.
3
This summary is being provided following agreement with Transport Malta as the applicant for the Sa Maison
marina.
15
Marine ecology
55.
A Benthic Habitats Survey (February 2012) was carried out for the „Proposed Yacht
Marina at Sa Maison / Pietà, but the area of influence was extended to include most
of the inner regions of Marsamxett Harbour, including the Scheme site. The survey
mapped the benthic habitats in the harbour and also sampled the sediment for the
presence of infauna and for chemical analysis. Each sample collected contained
43.1cm³ of sediment. Three replicate samples were collected from each station.
Sediment samples were tested in a laboratory in Italy.
56.
The sediment survey has shown that the mean particle size (Mz) of the sample
collected at the Lazaretto Creek station was of 2.750 phi which according to the
Wentworth Scale can be classified as fine sand.
57.
The infauna survey showed that the Lazaretto Creek station sample was composed
of fine-grained well-classed sand, with little inorganic debris (gravel) and numerous
vegetal fragments (mainly decaying leaves of Posidonia oceanica). The infaunal
assemblage displays a prevalence of small bivalve clams (including, Cardiidae,
Veneridae, and Luciniidae) and small gastropods (Bittium spp.). Gibbula nivosa was not
detected within the Lazaretto Creek sample.
58.
The biotic assemblages noted in the area surveyed in the inner parts of Marsmxett
Harbour reflect their eutrophic and sheltered environment. Bryozoans, Zoobothrion
verticillatum and Schizoporella sp. are species dependent on eutrophic conditions and
have been recorded in similar studies like the PORTAL survey (Schembri et al., 2006)
in the Grand Harbour.
59.
The area of the existing Ta‟ Xbiex Marina and the proposed location of the pontoon
consists of different benthic communities. Immediately with the coast there are
fouling assemblage and dense facies of Halimeda tuna / Corallina sp. / Jania rubens /
Dictyota sp. / Dictyopteris polypodioides and sabellid polychaetes and colonial ascidians
and bryozoans. Infralittoral stones and pebbles (RAC/SPA Code III.4.1), arising from
dumped material/rubble close to the coast in shallow water and to the outer area in
the middle of Lazaretto Creek associations of superficially muddy sand with
Thalassinid shrimp burrows. Cladocora caespitosa, which is a protected species, was
observed only at the mouth of Lazaretto Creek, outside the Scheme site.
Marine archaeology
60.
Since the Scheme is within a harbour area with archaeological potential marine
archaeology is an important consideration.
61.
Dr Timothy Gambin, a maritime archaeologist, was commissioned by Transport
Malta to study the marine archaeology in Lazaretto Creek in February 2012. The
report pointed out that the Lazaretto Creek in the past could have had a larger
depth and probably the coastline in the inner-reaches stretched further inland than
today. Notwithstanding the dredging works undertaken in the area over the years,
sediment deposits of up to nine metres are still existent.
16
62.
The earliest finds date back to antiquity. A burial complex was noted by Caruana in
the late nineteenth century close to Manoel Island and can be considered as an
indicator of human settlement / activity in the area. More recently some submerged
structures were noted in the inner-reaches of the Creek that could have been used
for the production of Garum. The only information available from the Middle Ages
comes from the portolani, that were sailing instructions used by mediaeval mariners.
The Chompasso de tuta la starea marina (14th Century) refers to Marsamuso
(Marsamxett) and Cavo de Larara (either Sliema Creek or Lazaretto Creek). During
the Great Siege of 1565 the Ottoman troops used the Lazaretto Creek to moor
their vessels. In the late 16th century the area became a hub of maritime activity due
to the construction of a quarantine hospital. This hospital became an isolation station
in the British period. During the 20th century, Lazaretto Creek was used as a
submarine base. Today the Creek is used for recreational activities and for yachting.
63.
Lazaretto Creek has been an area of intense human activities which can result in the
accumulation of „harbour deposits‟ but could have also caused disturbance to any
potential finds. These disturbances include;
o Dredging;
o Anchoring;
o Prop wash;
o World War II bombs; and
o Local fishing habits.
64.
The site survey included findings from a side scan sonar and a sub-bottom survey
which did not result in the identification of any archaeological objects / deposits yet
some features could be noted like mooring blocks, modern shipwrecks and an
Admiralty mooring chain.
65.
No archaeological artefacts were found on site; the nearest artefacts are the two
relatively modern shipwrecks at the mouth of Lazaretto Creek; a late eighteenth /
early nineteenth century vessel and the X-Lighter Carolita sunk during the Second
World War and which is today a scheduled historic property and an important dive
site. Both these shipwrecks lie outside the footprint of the Scheme.
66.
In the previous years, a number of artefacts have been discovered in the area and in
Marsamxett Harbour in general, see Table 4. Notwithstanding that no
archaeological objects /artefacts were found through the side scan sonar or from
existing sub bottom profiler targets, the presence of other archaeological remains
must not be discounted due to the extensive sediment deposits on site. Apart from
this, the potential of the area can be consolidated through the intensive use of the
area by the Ottoman forces in 1565 and later through the use of the quarantine
hospital.
17
Table 4: Discoveries at Lazaretto Creek
1) An amphora fragment labelled Marsamxett is present in the collection of the St
Agatha Museum in Rabat (STA05).
2) An iron cannon was retrieved from the seabed in 1960 – currently on display at
the Maritime Museum in Birgu (SCH archives).
3) Pottery fragments (possibly medieval) were raised from near the wreck of the
HMS Maori (SCH archives).
4) Roman amphora neck (Figure 5) – retrieved during the INA survey in 2000 (Atauz
& McManoman 2001: 23).
5) Partial bowl from Roman period - retrieved during the INA survey in 2000 (Atauz
& McManoman 2001: 23).
6) Fragments of Roman and Punic pottery retrieved by diver from Lazaretto Creek
(not catalogued).
7) Partial late Roman amphora retrieved by diver in Sliema Creek (not catalogued).
8) The Carolita, an X-Lighter water and fuel barge built in 1915 employed to carry
supplies in Manoel Island's submarine base in Marsamxett during World War II.
9) HMS Maori.
10) An unknown shipwreck marked on an early 20th century nautical chart.
11) A deposit of ceramics brought to light in the course of an excavation off Manoel
Island in 2001 (Atauz 2002).
Water quality
67.
The „Coordinated Assessment Report as related to current water quality and impacts on
water quality from proposed development (January 2012)‟ carried out as a baseline study
for the Sa Maison Marina EIA covered an extensive area which included the Scheme
site. The study was carried out by Prof. Victor Axiak on behalf of Ecoserv Ltd.
68.
The water quality survey was carried out on the 5th and 6th December 2011. Past
surveys were also taken into account. This survey is based on 10 stations. The two
that are relevant for this PDS are Stations 7 and 8. Station 7 is located between
Manoel Island and Ta‟ Xbiex whilst Station 8 is between Manoel Island and the public
garden.
18
Table 5: Temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and water turbidity as
reported at two fixed monitoring stations on the 5 and 6th December 2011.
Each reading being reported as the mean of two replicates (plus standard
deviation, SD)
Station
7
8
Depth
(m)
1
5
10
1
5
6.5*
Temperature (°C)
Salinity (ppt)
SD
Dissolved
Oxygen (%)
Mean
SD
Turbidity
(NTU)
Mean
Mean
SD
Mean
SD
19.08
19.00
18.97
18.87
18.87
18.85
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
38.21
38.20
38.20
38.19
38.19
38.19
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
109.5
108.4
107.7
104.8
105.8
105.6
0.4
0.4
0.9
1.4
1.0
1.5
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
*Maximum depth at station <10m; measurements made at bottom
69.
No water stratification was evident and salinity changes were minimal throughout.
Water stratification is mostly evident in July with surface temperatures being 3˚C
above the bottom temperatures.
70.
The survey confirmed that there were no anoxic conditions reported even though
the December 2011 sampling gave higher readings. When one takes into account
that the saturation level in January 2010 was 75% and that saturation levels never
exceeded the 105% in all the stations around the Marsamxett Harbour such high
levels of dissolved oxygen can be partly attributed to methodological artefacts.
71.
Turbidity in the area was highest in the inner parts. For both stations turbidity was
highest at the deepest reading (0.9 for Station 7 and 1.5 for Station 8). These
readings are in line with the general trend that emerged from the study that the inner
creeks had more turbid waters than the outer parts.
Table 6: Chlorophyll a, dissolved nitrates and dissolved phosphates at the
two fixed monitoring stations on the 5 and 6 th December 2011. Each
reading is being reported as the mean of two replicates (plus standard
deviation, SD)
Station
7
8
Depth
(m)
1
5
10
1
5
6.5*
Chlorophyll a (mg/m³)
Mean
SD
Nitrate (mg/L)
Mean
SD
Phosphate (mg/L)
Mean
SD
0.967
1.256
1.969
1.639
1.477
1.528
0.037
0.045
0.052
0.034
0.036
0.052
0.006
0.008
0.012
0.018
0.020
0.020
0.072
0.312
0.697
0.228
0.480
0.072
0.002
0.003
0.008
0.010
0.024
0.021
0.003
0.000
0.000
0.003
0.000
0.000
*Maximum depth at station <10m; measurements made at bottom
72.
The levels of dissolved nitrates and phosphates monitored in December 2011 were
similar to the ones monitored in the previous year. A relative increase in the
presence of Chlorophyll a in Marsamxett was recorded between December 2010
and 2011. From the readings Axiak concluded that on a long-term data analysis
19
certain areas at Marsamxett can be vulnerable to eutrophic conditions during some
parts of the year. The presence of nitrates at Stations 7 and 8 tended to increase
slightly with depth yet there is no pattern when one takes all the stations surveyed
together. Phosphate was relatively higher in the inner station i.e. Station 8.
73.
The water was also monitored for any bacteriological pollution. The microbiological
indicators used were the intestinal enterococci ( a subgroup of faecal streptococci)
and Eschericia coli (a subgroup of faecal coliforms). Both these indicators are used as
an index of faecal (sewage) pollution even though some forms of intestinal
enterococci originate from other sources such as soil. The levels of intestinal
enterococci were lower than those of E. coli. Both stations were free from
pollution.
Table 7: Bacteriological quality at two fixed monitoring stations on the 5
and 6th December 2011. Each reading is being reported as the mean of
two replicates (plus standard deviation, SD)
Station
7
8
74.
Depth (m)
0.5
0.5
Intestinal Enterococci
(c.f.u./100mL)
Mean
SD
3.0
1.4
7.0
4.2
E. coli (c.f.u./100mL)
Mean
22.0
23.0
SD
7.1
4.2
From these results it can be concluded that the Scheme area does not suffer from
sewage pollution.
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
75.
Environmental impacts can be both negative as well as positive and their assessment
is important so as to better define the effects that a proposal may have on its
receiving environment. In order for the environmental impacts of a project to be
properly defined and analysed, an EIA process will normally need to be undertaken,
complete with an identification of impacts, the determination of their significance, a
comparison with the baseline conditions, and consideration of alternatives. The need
for an EIA is however dependent on the screening of the likely impacts.
76.
A preliminary list of potential environmental impacts of the Scheme can be identified.
The list identifies only those impacts that may be significant. The level of significance
would need to be assessed as part of an EIA if the screening exercise concludes that
one is required. The potential impacts of the Scheme are considered to be:
Impacts on the benthic environment during the laying of concrete sinkers;
Impacts on sediments and water quality during operation;
Impacts from waste generated (construction and operation);
Visual and land / sea / cultural landscape impacts; and
20
Traffic management considerations.
Benthos
77.
The findings of the marine survey reports show that the benthos at the Scheme site
is typical of moderately sheltered and moderately polluted harbour environments in
Malta, with evidence of substantial amounts of littering. The impact of the Scheme on
the benthic environment is therefore considered to be insignificant. The protected
species, Cladocora caespitosa, was found at Lazaretto Creek‟s mouth but this is found
outside the Scheme's footprint and since the operation of the marina will be a
continuation of the current use of the site, the impact on the species is not expected
to be any different from the extant conditions.
Water quality
78.
Potential impacts on water quality may arise from the construction and operation of
the proposed development. Laying of sinkers will temporarily result in sediment
disturbance from the bottom, which may release entrapped contaminants. Since no
dredging works are envisaged, however, this impact is deemed to be insignificant.
79.
Impacts on water quality during operation will depend greatly on whether the marina
will enforce the existing regulations that prohibit discharge of black water from boats,
whether there will be any control on grey water discharges and on the use of
antifouling paints on the boats.
Waste management
80.
Waste management at the Scheme will be important. Depending on agreement with
the Lands Department, measures will be taken to establish waste depots at the
quayside, which will be managed by the marina operator. These would follow the
relevant IMO Regulations and be governed by the eventual operational permit
conditions.
Landscape and visual amenity
81.
The impacts on the landscape and visual amenity are likely to range from minor
positive to neutral, depending on the aspect being considered. Ta‟ Xbiex is
intrinsically tied to the presence of boats, so that the installation of a marina facility
will further contribute to this historic use of the site.
Marine archaeology
82.
Monitoring by professionals is essential during the laying of the sinkers or the
removal of old infrastructure, as also required by the Superintendence of Cultural
Heritage.
Traffic management
83.
Traffic to the site is expected to be low. Parking facilities are available along the road
21
between the quay and Ġnien il-Kunsill tal-Ewropa, which are shared with the other
users of the area. Amongst current users there are already ones that are making use
of the existing berthing facilities present. The traffic management issues likely to
result from the scheme will likely be minor negative to insignificant.
MITIGATION PROPOSALS
84.
The mitigation measures during construction mainly focus on best practice during the
works and, if required, periodical monitoring to ensure that no marine pollution
occurs as a result of the construction works.
85.
As requested in similar cases by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, the laying
of the new sinkers will have to be supervised by a qualified archaeologist.
86.
During the operation of the Scheme, the main mitigation measure is linked to waste
management - including the prohibition of discharges into the sea and the provision
of adequate and properly managed waste depots to allow boat owners to dispose of
their wastes in a safe and orderly manner. Adherence to existing legislation will go a
long way towards achieving this.
22
Appendix 1: Plans