EHG5690 - DBA and walkover survey - proposed Lairg II Wind Farm development

A desk-based assessment and walkover survey were undertaken by AOC Archaeology Group in 2018 to inform an Environmental Impact Assessment in advance of the proposed development of a second wind farm at Lairg (referred to as Lairg II). Previously recorded and unrecorded archaeological remains were observed, and notes taken about their location, extent condition and significance. This information informed the assessment of potential direct impacts. The walkover survey recorded the remains of a head dyke as well as four buildings, four clearance cairns and at least one enclosure. This assessment considered there to be the potential for hitherto unknown buried archaeological remains to survive within the Proposed Development Site. Buried features, most likely from the prehistoric and post medieval period, have the potential to survive, especially around and in association with known assets within the northern portion of the Proposed Development Site and around the access tracks. As such the magnitude of impact on unknown heritage assets has the potential to be High. Any resulting level of effect would be dependent upon the importance of the assets encountered. <1> An amended EIA report was re-issued in 2021 following changes to the proposed wind farm. <2> Additional environmental information, including that for updated cultural heritage, was also subsequently submitted in 2021. <3>