EHG6269 - DBA and walkover survey - proposed Earba pumped hydro scheme

A desk-based assessemt and walkover survey were unbdertaken by C Dagg in 2023 to address the potential for both direct and indirect impacts on archaeological sites and sites of historic or cultural heritage interest as a result of the proposed development of a pumped hydro scheme at Lochan nan Earba, Ardverikie. The proposed development are was located in a landscape of sparse features of settlement and land use, dating from the Early Modern period to the late 19th century, notably features of a sporting estate developed in 1873. Targeted survey work was completed across the site of the proposed development, following a detailed desk-based evaluation. The potential for further visible archaeological features was considered to be low to negligible. The assessment concluded that direct significant impacts, the worst assessed as moderate, were considered on two non-designated recorded sites and the potential for sub-surface or submerged features liable to be disturbed during ground works or during the operational phase of the proposed development was considered to be low to negligible. Within the wider area of Loch Laggan there were a number of cultural heritage sites of national importance with statutory protection. However, none of these were predicted to receive theoretical visibility of the proposed scheme and were scoped out of the assessment. The assessment concluded that there would be no potential significant indirect impacts as a result of the proposed scheme. <1>