Volume 3: Non-Technical Summary - November 2017 - IEMA
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Craven Cottage Riverside Stand Environmental Statement Volume 3: Non-Technical Summary November 2017
Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
Contents
1.0 Introduction and Methodology 1
2.0 Site and Surroundings 4
3.0 Description of Development 6
4.0 Water Resources and Flood Risk 10
5.0 Ecology and Nature Conservation 12
6.0 Heritage 13
7.0 Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment 16
8.0 Transport 19
9.0 Air Quality 22
10.0 Noise and Vibration 23
11.0 Wind Assessment 24
12.0 Ground Conditions and Contamination 25
13.0 Socio-Economics 25
14.0 Cumulative Assessment 27
15.0 Delivery of Mitigation and Monitoring 28
16.0 Availability of the Environmental Statement 29
17.0 Plans of the Proposed Development 29
Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
1.0 Introduction and Methodology
1.1 This document is a summary in non-technical language of an Environmental Statement (‘ES’)
prepared on behalf of Fulham Stadium Limited (‘FSL’)(‘the applicant’). It sets out the findings
of an Environmental Impact Assessment (‘EIA’) of the proposed demolition and redevelopment
of the Riverside Stand at Craven Cottage, Fulham.
1.2 The proposed development falls within part 10(b)(Infrastructure Projects) of Schedule 2 of the
Town and Country Planning (EIA) Regulations 2017 (‘the 2017 EIA Regulations’). Part 10(b)
relates to ‘urban development projects’ where the development includes sports stadium
development of more than 1 hectare in size. For such developments, EIA is required in
situations where it could give rise to significant environmental effects. The scope of the EIA has
been agreed with the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham (‘LBHF’) to which the ES
has been submitted for consideration.
1.3 The document includes the following information:-
• Section 1.0 – background to the assessment process and the development;
• Section 2.0 to 3.0 – description of the site and the proposed development;
• Sections 4.0 to 13.0 – a topic by topic review of the findings of the EIA;
• Section 14.0 - a review of whether other direct or indirect impacts may arise when the
scheme is considered with other schemes in the area;
• Section 15.0 – a summary of the proposed measures to be secured as part of any planning
permission associated with the development;
• Section 16.0 – details of how to obtain a full copy of the ES; and
• Section 17.0 – a selection of scheme plans and cross-sections.
The EIA Process
1.4 The ES sets out the findings of an EIA of the proposed development.
1.5 The EIA process aims to ensure that any significant effects arising from a development are
systematically identified, assessed and presented to help a local planning authority, statutory
consultees and other key stakeholders in their understanding of impacts arising from
development. If measures are required to minimise or reduce effects then these are clearly
identified.
1.6 For this development, EIA has been carried out to consider the likely significant effects that may
arise during demolition of the existing stand, and the construction and operation of the new
Riverside Stand. Consideration is also required in relation to the relationship of the
development to other emerging schemes in the area and nearby potentially sensitive receptors
including the River Thames, heritage features, local residents and other groups. It has been
completed with regard to best practice and relevant legislation and has addressed the following
matters agreed with LBHF as being required to assess the impacts of the development.
• Water Resources and Flood Risk • Air Quality
• Ecology and Nature Conservation • Noise and Vibration
• Heritage (Archaeology and built structures) • Wind Environment
• Townscape and Views • Ground Conditions and Contamination
• Transportation • Socio-Economics
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Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
1.7 Likely effects are identified based on current knowledge of the site and surroundings, desktop
assessment, survey and fieldwork and information available to the EIA team. All those matters
that could be reasonably required to assess the effects of the proposals are set out in the ES; this
includes effects arising from the development itself as well as those temporary effects arising
during demolition and construction works. The assessment has had regard to the requirements
of the 2017 EIA Regulations.
1.8 The EIA team has worked with the design team to ensure that the scheme for which planning
permission is sought incorporates those revisions or modifications that are necessary or
appropriate to avoid or reduce significant adverse effects on the environment.
1.9 Consultation has also informed the EIA process in relation to the methods by which the EIA has
been carried out, as a means to seek environmental data, to review the effectiveness of any
identified mitigation measures and as a means to keep interested bodies informed on the
process of EIA undertaken.
1.10 The EIA has had regard to planning and environmental policy and legislation at national,
London and local level that is relevant to the development and the assessment process.
1.11 There were no significant difficulties in compiling information and testing impacts or the
assumptions that have been adopted but examples of some of the matters experienced include
information being unavailable to the team or the necessity to rely on reasonably available data
or assumptions in carrying out the EIA and/or there being no accepted methodology to assess
particular impacts (and therefore a need to rely on professional judgement and experience).
1.12 The applicant has assembled a team to undertaken the EIA who, it has confirmed, has sufficient
expertise and the necessary credentials to ensure the quality of the ES and that it is complete.
Background to the Scheme
History of the Site
1.13 The Craven Cottage site originally formed part of the largely wooded Craven Cottage estate built
in 1780 for the sixth Baron Craven. In 1896, Fulham St Andrews – a church football team –
moved to the site having previously played at various grounds in West London.
1.14 The first stand (known as the Rabbit Hutch) held 1,000 spectators but was replaced in 1905 due
to safety concerns. The new stand and associated turnstiles (which opened in 1906) were
designed by Archibald Leitch and are now Grade II listed (the ‘Johnny Haynes Stand’). Leitch
also designed the Cottage, a corner pavilion that was an idea common in Scottish football
grounds. The Cottage is Grade II listed.
1.15 The Club gained access to the Football League in 1907. There was limited change at the ground
for the next 50 years.
1.16 The Riverside Stand, which is the subject of the planning application which this EIA
accompanies, was constructed in 1972 and formed part of a number of improvements that the
Club undertook during the 1960s and 1970s. During the 1980’s there were a number of
unsuccessful proposals to redevelop the stadium.
1.17 In 1997, Mohamed Al Fayed purchased the Club and achieved the goal to return it to the top tier
of the Football League within five years. The Club currently plays in the Championship, the
second tier of English Football, having been relegated from the Premier League in the 2013-
2014 season after 13 consecutive seasons in the Premiership. Whilst in the Premiership, the
capacity of Craven Cottage meant that Fulham FC had one of the smallest grounds in that
League and regularly sold out its capacity (in 2010 it achieved 98% occupancy).
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Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
1.18 Also over the last 20 years, there have been several planning applications to meet the Club’s
aspirations to increase the stadium capacity to circa 30,000 capacity and improve facilities for
its supporters. One of the most relevant to the current development is a scheme to expand the
Riverside Stand that has the benefit of planning permission granted in 2013. That scheme also
includes some of the features incorporated into the New Riverside Stand development including
new hospitality space and the creation of a new Riverside Walk. The scheme would achieve the
aim of achieving an overall Stadium capacity of 30,000 seats.
Figure C1.1 CGI of Riverside Stand approved July 2013
Source: KSS
1.19 In August 2016, LBHF confirmed that the permission had been ‘implemented’ and that,
therefore, the Club could continue to build this approved scheme at any time. The scheme is
referred throughout this Non-Technical Summary as the ‘2012 extant scheme’ or ‘the previous
2012 scheme’. Whilst not required by the 2017 EIA Regulations, at Part 16.0 of this Non-
Technical Summary a brief review of how the environmental impacts arising from the current
New Riverside Stand development compares to the impacts arising from the 2012 extant
scheme.
Future Objectives
1.20 The Club has previously confirmed its intention to remain at the site, its spiritual home, and
there has been an aspiration for some time to both increase the capacity and to improve facilities
for supporters. Allied to this, is the ambition to return the Club to the Premier League as soon
as possible.
1.21 The football stadium has to match this ambition, to allow the Club to improve its facilities and
keep pace with the evolving, fast paced football industry. This fast pace has become particularly
pronounced for London based clubs recently – in the last 2 years, Tottenham Hotspur FC
(White Hart Lane, Haringey), AFC Wimbledon (Plough Lane, Merton) and Chelsea FC (Fulham
Road, Fulham) were granted planning permission to develop new stadiums. West Ham FC also
relocated to the ‘London Stadium’ in Stratford in 2016.
1.22 FFC acknowledge that it is essential for the Club to change and adapt to remain competitive.
This requires it to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to protect its long term
future and prepare for a return to the Premier League. However, the Club are committed to
doing this whilst also retaining its commitment to remaining at the Craven Cottage site and in
retaining those parts of the ground that create the special match day experience and provide
links to the Club’s long footballing heritage.
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Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
1.23 Reflecting the previous 2012 scheme, the current proposals also seek to expand the capacity of
the existing Riverside Stand. However, and in addition, the current owner of the Club has a
fresh perspective and his own ambitious vision about how he wants to develop the football club.
This includes a desire to make more of the opportunities presented by the site’s riverside
location, to respond better to environmental sensitivities and deliver greater social, economic
and environmental benefits to the area than those brought about by the previous 2012 scheme.
1.24 The new design has therefore been developed on the basis of creating an iconic but appropriate
design that establishes a benchmark for mixed-use stadia design, which will be used throughout
the year, including on non-match days. Integral to achieving this has been the need to
complement the riverside and create a contemporary waterfront destination and a natural social
gathering place for the local community, rather than just a football stand.
1.25 Whilst the design has evolved quite significantly, the aim has been to achieve this within the key
design parameters established by the previous 2012 scheme – for example, ensuring the overall
height of the building remains below the height of the previous scheme; the riverside walkway
follows the same projection across the River Thames and provides a pedestrian connection from
Stevenage Park to Bishops Park; the proposed new river wall follows the same approved line;
and the overall seating capacity remains within the limit of 30,000.
2.0 Site and Surroundings
The Site
2.1 The existing FFC ground occupies a site of approximately 2.4 hectares and includes four
individual Stands – the Johnny Haynes Stand, the Hammersmith End Stand, the Putney End
Stand and the Riverside Stand. The Football Ground is bounded by the River Thames to the
south west, Bishops Park to the south east, Stevenage Park and residential development to the
north and Stevenage Road and residential development to the east.
Figure 2.1 Craven Cottage Football Ground
Source: Google Earth
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Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
2.2 The current Stadium has a capacity for 25,700 seats. Access to the site is provided from
Stevenage Road at two points (marked by arrows on Figure 2.1). No access is currently provided
from the Riverside Stand into Bishops Park nor Stevenage Park and it is not possible to walk
from Hammersmith along the river towards Fulham or vice versa (‘the Riverside Walk’). As
such, the current Riverside Walk detours inland around the ground, along Stevenage Road.
2.3 The area to which the development considered in this EIA relates comprises the western
(Riverside) Stand with connections to the nearest road to the east (Stevenage Road) and areas
behind the rear of the northern and southern Stands of the Stadium (Hammersmith and
Fulham respectively), along with those Stands themselves, and an area of the River Thames and
Bishops Park immediately adjacent to the Stadium. The area of the site is approximately 2.2
hectares.
Table 2.1 Development Site Boundary
Note: site outlined in red; other land owned by the Club outlined in blue
2.4 The existing stand is single tier and has 4,689 seats. It is located very close to the bank of the
River Thames. As well as general admission seats, the Stand accommodates 28 wheelchair
spaces and hospitality facilities. The existing hospitality and conferencing rooms include
windows facing onto the River Thames and is approximately 736sqm in size
Figure C2.2 Current Riverside Stand
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Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
2.5 The Stand is a steel framed permanent structure with aluminium cladding to the sides and rear
(onto the river). Its roof slopes back towards the river. To the immediate north and south of the
stand are two floodlights. Access to the hardstanding area immediately behind the Riverside
Stand (on the river frontage) is available to spectators and for hospitality purposes. An existing
flood protection wall runs the length of the River Thames and is in poor condition.
2.6 The Hammersmith and Putney Stands are included within the development site boundary. Both
stands are approximately 10 years old and are also steel framed structures with aluminium
cladding. The site boundary also includes areas to the rear of the Hammersmith and Putney End
Stands that currently provide access to the Riverside Stand, from Stevenage Road to the east.
These areas comprise hardstanding with access to some limited facilities, including toilets and
fast food outlets. Vehicular access to the site is from Stevenage Road although there are no car
parking spaces associated with the current Riverside Stand.
2.7 An area of approximately 0.5 hectares of the adjacent Bishops Park is included within the site
boundary (albeit intended for use temporarily during the construction period only). Bishops
Park is a Grade II* Historic Park and Garden and is also Metropolitan Open Land. The area
within the site boundary includes part of an area used as playing fields and is bordered by paths
on grass banks to the north, east and west. Either side of these paths are trees and tree groups
that frame the site.
Surroundings
2.8 Craven Cottage is located approximately 2.1km south of Hammersmith town centre. Putney
Bridge underground station is approximately 1.1km to the south east, and Hammersmith Station
is approximately 1.9km to the north. The A219 Fulham Palace Road is located 380 metres
north-east of the site and forms part of London’s Strategic Road Network.
2.9 To the west, on the opposite side of the River, the land is predominantly open (comprising Barns
Wetlands Centre and Barn Elms sports pitches) except for two boathouses. Further to the south
are Putney Embankment and a series of boathouses along the River frontage.
2.10 To the immediate south-east of the site are further areas of Bishops Park, which extends along
the River frontage to Putney Bridge (Grade II). There are mature trees on the Park’s perimeter
and extending along the River frontage. Fulham Palace, within Bishops Park, is a scheduled
ancient monument.
2.11 To the north-west is a small area of open space known as Stevenage Park which separates the
site from River Gardens, a block of late 20th century apartments. There are a number of mature
trees within this area.
2.12 The remainder of the Stadium lies to the east/north-east with Stevenage Road beyond. East of
Stevenage Road is a relatively densely developed residential area largely comprising two/three
storey brick built Edwardian and Victorian terraces of uniform character.
3.0 Description of Development
3.1 The description of development is as follows:-
“Demolition of the Riverside Stand and partial reconfiguration of the Putney Stand (western
end) and Hammersmith Stand (western end), removal of four floodlight masts and
replacement by lighting under the new roof of the Riverside Stand, Putney Stand and
Hammersmith Stand and two new floodlight masts; and the development of a new Riverside
Stand providing two tiers of seating (creating an overall seating capacity of up to 29,600); a
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Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
new extended section of riverside walkway; basement; leisure/retail provision for A1, A3, A4,
A5, D2 use classes; serviced apartments (Use Class C1); parking; a new river wall; a
temporary construction river platform and construction compound; and associated
landscaping (including boundary work), lighting and ground works”.
3.2 A number of plans identifying the development are provided at Section 17.0 of this document.
Figure C3.1 The Proposed Riverside Stand
Source: Populous
3.3 The existing Riverside Stand and floodlighting masts will be demolished. The proposed new
Stand will provide 8,650 seats across two tiers, of which 80 will be wheelchair accessible. On
the riverside, five storeys of development (plus a roof terrace) will accommodate 12,773 sq m
(gross internal area) of new commercial uses (including restaurants, cafes, bars, corporate
hospitality and event space) and 9 serviced apartments. A new entrance will be provided from
Bishops Park and a new exit onto Stevenage Park.
3.4 A riverside walkway will be created which will cantilever over the river and also run alongside
and partly beneath the proposed stand, connecting Stevenage Park and Bishops Park and
providing continuity to the Thames Path. A new river wall will be created.
3.5 Various modifications will also be made to the Hammersmith Stand and the Putney Stand to
both align them with the new Riverside Stand and also provide new uses and facilities associated
with the football ground (e.g. TV studios, first aid room, etc).
3.6 There is significant disparity between the anticipated number of attendees at a football match
and the (lower) anticipated number of attendees at any of the other non-match day events.
There are similarly a range of uses, such as bars, restaurant and cafes, fitness uses and meeting
space, which will operate throughout the year rather than as a specific ‘event’. These, and the
hours of opening assumed are described in Tables 3.1 and 3.2 below:-
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Table 3.1 Hours of Use / Capacity (Match Days Events)
Match Day Events No. Per Annum Capacity Hours of Opening
Sat Sun W/day Sat Sun W/day
Football Matches (all facilities 20 5 10 29,600 12:00- 12:00- 17:30-
available) 23:00 23:00 23:00
Table C3.2 Hours of Use / Capacity (Non Match Day Events)
Events No. Per Annum Capacity Hours of Opening
High Capacity (e.g. boat race) 10 5000 11:00-23:00
Medium - High Capacity (e.g. conferences) 100 75-500 09:00-18:00
Medium – Low Capacity (e.g. roof terrace hire) 40 35-195 14:00-23:00
Small Capacity (e.g. weddings) 50 50-100 08:00-23:00
3.7 The development will be constructed using a palette of high quality durable materials. The
western elevation frontage will comprise primarily glazing with painted steel surrounds. A
floating room with solar panels on top will sit above the stand. A glass balustrade will separate
the River Walk from the river. The walkway will be finished with a hardwearing external
material and will be designed to avoid trip hazards.
3.8 A total of nine car parking spaces are proposed, two to the rear of the Putney End stand and
seven to the rear Hammersmith End stand. Long-stay cycle parking standards will be provided
in the reconfigured western end of the Putney Stand along with shower and locker facilities.
3.9 There are currently four floodlighting masts which are located at each corner of the ground. The
floodlights are used between 20-25 times a year for afternoon and evening games. The proposals
include the removal of the two existing floodlight masts to the west of the site. These lights are
to be replaced with a new floodlighting system incorporated beneath the roof structure.
3.10 The two existing floodlight masts to the east either side of the Johnny Haynes Stand will be
replaced with two new masts in the same location and at the same height of the existing masts,
but with modern LED lighting. No works to listed buildings are necessary as a result of these
changes. New gantry lighting will be installed in the Hammersmith Stand and Putney Stand,
and will utilise modern LED lighting angled down to the pitch to reduce light spill out of the
stadium.
Construction of the Proposed Development
3.11 It is anticipated that a planning condition will require further details to be submitted and agreed
by the contractor in due course and prior to the works taking place of exactly how the
development will be constructed but with regard to the principles that have formed the basis of
assessment.
3.12 Construction will be targeted to be complete to allow the Stand to be operational at the start of
the 2021/22 football season (August 2021) with a construction period of approximately 3 years.
3.13 The phasing of the demolition and construction works has been designed to result in minimum
disruption to the football activities of Fulham FC, and in particular to the ability of Craven
Cottage to continue to effectively host matches throughout those football seasons which will
coincide with the build periods). The stand will continue to operate matches (with reduced
capacity due to the lack of availability of the Riverside Stand) through both seasons.
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3.14 The proposed new Riverside Stand will require the following temporary construction-phase
works.
• River Pontoon – a pontoon platform extending over the river and running the full length
of the proposed stand will allow for the unloading of construction materials from the
Thames, and for their storage. The foundations used for these platforms will be temporary
and will be fully removed upon completion, including the extraction of the piles from the
river bed.
• Bishops Park Site Compound – a site compound comprising hardstanding and stacked
office units will provide site welfare facilities and space for road based deliveries off
Stevenage Road.
3.15 The areas required for both the River Pontoon and the Bishops Park Compound are included
within the development site boundary for assessment purposes, although both areas fall outside
the area required to accommodate the permanent built footprint of the proposed new Riverside
Stand or any associated works. Neither the River Pontoon or Bishops Park Compound areas will
form part of the completed development or be subject to any long-term of operational-phase
impacts as a result of the temporary construction works.
3.16 Approximately one third of construction deliveries (all bulky materials) will arrive at the
development site via river, dispatched from Northfleet Wharf in Kent and arriving at the
proposed construction-phase River Pontoon. Other deliveries will come via road and enter the
site via a temporary access point created into the Bishops Park construction compound from
Stevenage Road. All road deliveries will take place in ‘off-peak’ times – Mon-Fri (10am to 4pm)
and Saturdays (10am to 1pm).
3.17 Works are planned to be undertaken during the following hours:
• Monday – Friday: 8:00am to 6:00pm
• Saturday: 8:00am to 1:00pm
3.18 Match day works, activities and deliveries will be reduced or suspended as per the requirements
of FFC and the Safety Advisory Group. No works are to be undertaken during Sundays, Bank
Holidays or Public Holidays without prior agreement with LBHF.
3.19 The contractor will be required to produce and agree a Construction Environmental
Management Plan (“CEMP”) (incorporating any relevant environmental requirements) to
address construction effects on the environment, existing surrounding communities, businesses
and residents of the area. Further details of the scope of this document are provided in Chapter
N of this ES (Mitigation and Monitoring).
Inbuilt Measures to ‘Mitigate’ Environmental Impacts
3.20 The process of assessment has informed the design of the scheme and a number of design
features have been included specifically to reduce adverse environmental effects identified
during the assessment process. The measures include:-
1 Solar panels for energy generation rather than using other means that would require flues
projecting from the roof (that would have adverse visual, air quality and heritage effects);
2 The use of particular glass on riverfront that will avoid reflections onto the river and create
adverse ecological impacts;
3 Developing a lighting scheme that minimises impacts of light spill and sky glow and
therefore adverse impacts on ecological, heritage and townscape & visual receptors;
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4 Creating reed beds beneath the River Walk, to provide benefits to local flora and fauna.
Daylight will reach the reeds through glass surfaces incorporated into the River Walk;
5 All levels of the stand will be above maximum flood ‘breach’ levels;
6 Retaining the ‘Craven Steps’ (an existing heritage features close to the river) as part of the
design of the River Walk;
7 Improvements to pedestrian access and cycle provision; and
8 Ensuring the scale and height of the stand, as well as its materials and appearance, are
respective of its location and views towards the site and also reflect the previous extant
2012 development (and those features of that scheme already considered to be
appropriate).
Figure C3.2 Comparison between 2013 approved scheme and proposed scheme
Source: Populous
Notes: Riverside elevation of previous 2012 extant scheme shown in red overlaid over the top of the current proposed
development
Alternatives
3.21 The 2017 EIA Regulations require that consideration is given to any alternatives to the scheme
that may have been studied by the applicant; along with a consideration of what may happen at
the site should the development not go ahead.
3.22 If the development were not to go ahead, it is likely that the site would remain in its current use
and the stadium at its current capacity. In this scenario, none of the features of the development
would be brought forward including the extension of the River Walk along the riverside of the
stadium. Most environmental factors would be unlikely to change in this scenario albeit flood
risk may increase over time as a result of more intense rainfall due to climate change. This
scenario would also not allow the club to compete in the upper football leagues and secure
necessary investment. It would not achieve the Club’s ambitions.
3.23 Alternative sites for the development were not considered due to the Club’s longstanding
association with the area. Various emerging versions of the design of the Stand were also
considered during the development of the proposals but were discounted due to the ongoing
process of environmental assessment and/or because they failed to deliver aspects of the Club’s
objectives for the development.
4.0 Water Resources and Flood Risk
4.1 An assessment was carried out in relation to features of the water environment, drainage and
flood risk by the specialist water technical team at WSP. The study area extends into the wider
area and includes downstream sewers and the water supply network. Information to assist the
assessment process has been gathered from a variety of sources including site visits and via
consultation with key parties such as LBHF, the Environment Agency (‘EA’), Thames Water and
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the Port of London Authority. A detailed flood risk assessment has been conducted and has also
informed the EIA.
Existing Conditions
4.2 Based on a topographical survey, ground levels across the stadium generally fall from west to
east. The football pitch is between 1.5 and 2 metres below the level of the existing riverside area
with the first level of seats over 0.5 metres further below the level of the pitch.
4.3 The River Thames, which is tidal, runs along and in part within the western boundary of the
development site and is classified by the EA as a ‘main watercourse’. The site itself is within
Flood Zone 3 but is also within area benefiting from flood defences that can defend London up
to a 1 in 1000 year tidal flood event. There is therefore a low risk of flooding from the river.
4.4 There are public sewers in the vicinity of the site that run up Stevenage Road and with branches
running up Finlay Street and Greswell Street towards the east. Craven Cottage currently
discharges into the system along Stevenage Road. Issues with sewer and surface water flooding
have been recorded by LBHF during heavy rainfall events but the risk of flooding from flooding
of this nature is low.
4.5 Drinking water is supplied via a Thames Water main beneath Stevenage Road. No particular
long term supply problems are known based on information available to the assessment team.
Effects during Construction and Operation of the Development
4.6 During the period of demolition and construction, the potential impact on construction workers,
site users and residents in the surrounding area due to risk of tidal flooding from the River
Thames is negligible. There is a potential short term negligible/minor adverse impact due to
risk of encroachment from the river whilst the current river wall along the front of the site is
removed and replaced with the new river wall. There is also a risk of surface water flooding is
care is not taken over construction site management and debris enters the drainage system and
causes blockages. The associated short term impact would be negligible/minor adverse in scale.
4.7 Also during the construction period, there is a potential short term moderate adverse impact
associated with the risk of contamination of water (including the River Thames) if good
construction practices are not operated at the site. The increased demand in water and on the
sewer network during construction is negligible in scale.
4.8 Once the stand has been constructed and is operational, a negligible to minor adverse impact
due to flood risk from the River Thames and due to encroachment from the River Thames exists
in relation to residents of the surrounding area and users of Craven Cottage. The degree of
impact relates to surrounding residents remains on the occupants of housing surrounding
Craven Cottage and a negligible impact on users of the stadium. Improvements to the situation
are brought about by the installation of the new river wall and also raising the levels of ground
to reduce the risk of encroachment.
4.9 A minor beneficial impact is anticipated in relation to drainage and due to risks associated with
contamination of the water environment as the development allows the creation of new and
bespoke drainage systems that can improve the current situation. There is a negligible/minor
adverse impact due to the increase in water demand and demands on the sewer network due to
the increase in users at the site.
Mitigation and Monitoring
4.10 Whilst a number of measures have been ‘built into’ the development (as described earlier in this
Non-Technical Summary), additional mitigation measures can be secured to reduce likely
Pg 11Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
impact and also create beneficial outcomes during both the construction and operational period.
Measures include developing management plans to deal with the risk of contamination during
the construction period (e.g. to be explained in a ‘Construction Environmental Management
Plan’(‘CEMP’)) and through the creation of a Flood Warning and Evacuation Plan that will
provide instructions of what to do in case of a flooding event. Discussions and agreement with
Thames Water in terms of water demand and demands on the sewage network will also ensure
that provision is made for the development.
4.11 With these measures in place, and during the construction period, a negligible/minor beneficial
impact is anticipated in relation to potential contamination of water and a negligible impact is
anticipated in relation to impact on water demand and foul sewer demand. The impacts
associated with tidal flood risk remain unchanged.
4.12 During the operation of the development, and with appropriate management mechanisms in
place, all impacts are considered to be negligible in scale with the exception of the ongoing risk
of tidal flood risk from the River Thames that remains negligible/minor adverse in scale.
5.0 Ecology and Nature Conservation
5.1 The assessment of the impact on ecology and on nature conservation was carried out by
experienced ecologists at WSP. The assessment has had regard to best practice and legislation
and has been based on a variety of survey work over a number of years at the site (including up
to date surveys conducted in 2016 and 2017). The scope of the assessments has been agreed
with LBHF and the Greater London Authority (‘GLA’) and, in particular, it has been agreed that
there are no statutorily (i.e. covered by specific legislation) designated sites or breeding and
wintering bird species that need to be considered as part of the assessment process. However
consideration has been given to the Barn Elms Wetland Centre Site of Special Scientific Interest
(‘SSSI’) that is approximately 0.3km to the north-west of the site. There has been a need to
review several non-statutorily designated sites as well as the impact on invertebrates (e.g.
insects, snails, etc), fish and bats. The assessment has had regard to an area 1km from the site.
Existing Conditions
5.2 Two nature conservation sites of interest close to the site are associated with River Thames and
Tidal Tributaries and also the adjacent Bishops Park. Both sites are assessed to have ‘County
value’ for nature conservation and form part of important open networks and a resource for
birds and other species in the area. Bishops Park is also seen to have value due to its mature
London Plane trees, shrubbery and pond. Several London Plane trees immediately to the south
of the site in Bishops Park are of an exceptional size and are recorded as being a significant
feature within the park.
5.3 The River Thames has been subject to significant historic pressure from various matters
including pollution and development that has had an effect on the ecology of the river. It is
currently designated under European legislation known as the ‘Water Framework Directive’
which aims to improve water quality of key water courses. In this part of London, the river is
currently designated as being of ‘moderate ecological potential’ and there is an aspiration to
achieve ‘good ecological potential’ by 2027. A ‘Water Framework Directive’ assessment has been
conducted as part of the EIA process to consider how the development affects this aspiration.
5.4 There are no records of bat roosts within the study area (and no potential for roosts except,
potentially, in some of the trees in Bishops Park) but there may be some evidence of bats moving
through the area. A number of invertebrate species have been identified in the past close to the
Pg 12Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
site (e.g. mussels, shrimps, worms, snails) but all were common species. None of the species
have been found within the development site boundary itself.
5.5 There are a number of fish species which use the Thames and some of which are protected
species. In the vicinity of the site, flounder, salmon, eel and smelt have all been recorded.
5.6 The stadium itself, immediate surrounding hardstanding and species growing in the river wall
have very limited/negligible ecological value. There is some Japanese Knotweed also growing in
the river wall which is an invasive species and has a negative impact on native wildlife. A review
of the River Thames foreshore within the site boundary has also not identified any particular
ecological interest.
Effects during Construction and Operation of the Development
5.7 During the construction period, no direct impacts are anticipated on the Barn Elms Wetland
Centre SSSI. Provided important trees within Bishops Park are protected, impacts will be
negligible/minor adverse as they are not directly vulnerable due to construction noise or lighting
impacts during this period. No significant adverse effects are anticipated on birds nor the ability
of bats to move through the area. There will be a short term loss of habitat within the river
(piles, temporary pontoons etc) but the areas will be rapidly recolonised and therefore the effect
will be negligible. A temporary minor adverse effect on fish and invertebrates may occur during
the construction period due to their habitats being disturbed (including through noise and
vibration). As for water resources, if pollution enters the river due to poor construction site
management techniques, this would give rise to a minor adverse impact on species within the
river.
5.8 During operation, no direct impacts are anticipated on the Barn Elms Wetland Centre SSSI nor
on Bishops Park. Notwithstanding the increase in lighting from the new Stand, a significant
‘dark corridor’ exists along the river that ensure that bats moving through the area will not be
adversely impacted. No impacts are anticipated on birds nor the aquatic habitat due to the
‘built-in’ mitigation (e.g. reed beds, landscaping associated with the new Stand) that has been
included as part of the development. Shading impacts from the walkway overhanging the river
are considered to be negligible and are off-set by the introduction of the reed beds and also the
creation of new inter-tidal habitat and timber features on the river wall that can provide a useful
habitat for species.
Mitigation and Monitoring
5.9 Japanese knotweed within the site will be removed during the construction period to ensure that
there is no risk of it spreading. Removal will be carried out by a suitably qualified specialist
contractor and detailed as part of the CEMP. It is also recommended that the CEMP details and
species low level lighting, the use of low-noise/vibratory piling and protection measures for key
trees within Bishops Park to ensure that the impacts identified during the construction period
can be ensured.
5.10 During the operation of the Stand, and as identified above, mitigation has already been
‘designed in’ the development and no additional mitigation is necessary other than to ensure the
delivery of the features as identified.
6.0 Heritage
6.1 The above ground heritage assessment has been conducted by members of Lichfields with
membership of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation. Archaeology South-East has
carried out the assessment of archaeological impacts. All archaeological features within 1km of
Pg 13Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
the site and all above ground features within 2km of the site (or the area within which the site
may be visible) have been considered. Work has been conducted in accordance with best
practice methodological approaches and with reference to policy and legislation. Information
has been drawn from desk based sources, fieldwork, photographic surveys and through
consultation.
6.2 The assessment of below ground heritage assets is based on a desk-based assessment of buried
archaeological potential. The Greater London Historic Environment Record holds information
on known sites, buildings and monuments of archaeological or historic interest. Below ground
heritage assets are considered by historic period in the assessment. In relation to ‘above ground’
heritage assets, the effects on setting and the historic significance of each asset has been
considered. The following assets have been considered:-
1 Fulham Reach Conservation Area
2 Bishops Park Conservation Area
3 Crabtree Conservation Area
4 Putney Embankment Conservation Area
5 Group: Fulham Palace Moated Site Scheduled Monument; Fulham Palace Registered Park
and Garden (Grade II*); Fulham Palace (Grade I); Chapel at Fulham Palace (Grade II);
Lodge on north east of entrance drive (Gothic lodge), moat bridge and attached gate piers at
entrance to Fulham Palace (all Grade II); Coachman’s Lodge at entrance to Fulham Palace
(curtilage listed)
6 Bishops Park Registered Park and Garden (Grade II)
7 Hammersmith Bridge (Grade II* listed)
8 Grandstand (Johnny Haynes Stand) / Turnstiles to Fulham Football Club (Grade II listed)
9 Office to south of Grandstand at Fulham Football Club (Craven Cottage) (Grade II listed)
10 Harrods Depository riverside warehouse to east (Grade II listed)
11 Putney Bridge (Grade II listed)
12 London Rowing Club (locally listed)
13 Thames Rowing Club (locally listed)
14 Bollards and post, Cory Wharf, Eternit Walk (locally listed)
15 Craven steps (locally listed)
16 Boundary railings and gates to Bishops Park, Stevenage Road (locally listed)
Existing Conditions
6.3 The site is located within the Fulham Reach Conservation Area, with a small area within the
Bishops Park Conservation Area and Grade II* Registered Park and Garden (including the
locally listed boundary railings and gates to Bishops Park, Stevenage Road). There are no listed
buildings within the Site itself but it includes the locally listed Craven steps. Further to the
south is Putney Embankment, a Conservation Area, with a series of boathouses primarily
associated with rowing clubs along the river frontage. Putney Bridge, also to the south, is Grade
II listed with Hammersmith Bridge, to the north, being Grade II* listed.
6.4 Within Bishops Park, and to the south of the site, are a number of mature trees (as noted
elsewhere) and also Fulham Palace that is a Scheduled Monument and Grade I listed. There are
a number of listed buildings within the grounds of Fulham Palace.
Pg 14Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
6.5 Outside of the site boundary, but within the Craven Cottage stadium site are the Grade II listed
Johnny Haynes stand and the Grade II listed Craven Cottage.
6.6 The history of the area is detailed in a number of sources. In the mid-19th century, the area
surrounding the Site was largely open countryside characterised by orchards and market
gardens and several country houses with urbanisation starting from the 1880s when the railway
connected the area to the City of London. Housing development in the area grew alongside
industrial development on the riverside. Rowing and sculling became popular pastimes on the
river. As noted earlier in this Non-Technical Summary, the development site started its use as a
football ground in 1896. Bishops Park opened in 1893 after the Ecclesiastical Commissioners
donated a strip of land to the District Board of Works for use as a public park. In the second half
of the 20th century there was clearance of a number of the industrial buildings along the north
bank of the river and their replacement with residential buildings.
6.7 In relation to archaeology, there are no assets recorded from the prehistoric, Roman, Saxon or
medieval periods within the site boundary (i.e. essentially up to the 1800s). The majority of any
archaeology in the area (with records from all areas) relate to the Fulham Palace complex to the
south of the site.
Effects during Construction and Operation of the Development
Archaeology
6.8 The proposed development has the potential, primarily through the impact of piling at the banks
of the Thames and the construction of a basement, to impact upon buried archaeological
deposits. Key areas of potential impact are associated with known activity on the banks of the
Thames. These are known in the near vicinity to have spanned multiple time periods, though
there is particular interest in Roman, Medieval and Post Medieval activity given the nearby
highly important remains (particularly a bead factory to the north and Fulham Palace to the
south). If remains exist, there would be an adverse impact during the construction period.
6.9 There is no potential for impacts on archaeology during the operational period.
Above Ground Heritage Assets
6.10 It has been determined that during construction there will be an adverse effect (either
negligible, minor or moderate) on the significance of the Fulham Reach Conservation Area;
Bishops Park Conservation Area; Bishops Park Registered Park and Garden; Crabtree
Conservation Area; Grandstand and turnstiles; Craven Cottage; Craven steps and boundary
railings and gates to Bishops Park, Stevenage Road. These adverse effects on significance will be
largely temporary.
6.11 During operation, the assessment has shown that there will be no effect on the significance of
any of the heritage assets with the exception of the Grade II listed Johnny Haynes Stand and
Craven Cottage where significance will be enhanced and the locally listed Craven steps, where
there will be a negligible adverse effect (but only due to their being not visible).
Mitigation and Monitoring
6.12 During the construction period, adverse archaeological impacts can be mitigated through
preservation by recording details of any features that may be found in the course of the works.
Timing of works to achieve the recording will present a number of challenges given the location
of the area of interest within the riverfront but it is considered that this can be achieved through
the preparation of a document called an archaeological ‘Written Scheme of Investigation’ and
close liaison with the contractor.
Pg 15Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
6.13 In relation to above ground heritage features, a number of key mitigation measures have been
identified during the construction period to minimise impacts include:-
1 The safe storage and reinstatement of the railings and gates to the Stevenage Road frontage
of Bishops Park as well as the lamp post (and their reinstatement post construction period);
2 The appropriate appearance/colour of any hoarding in Bishops Park;
3 Ensure the listed Johnny Haynes Stand and Craven Cottage will not be negatively affected
by construction work including heavy vehicles. Construction management plans will need to
be put in place to ensure the listed structures are protected from construction activity;
4 Full reinstatement of the area of Bishops Park falling within the construction compound
area once works are complete; and
5 Craven steps will be suitably protected during and after the construction works.
6.14 During the operational period, no mitigation measures are considered necessary in relation to
above ground heritage features.
7.0 Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment
7.1 The townscape and visual impact assessment has been prepared by experienced assessors at
Lichfields using visualisations of the development prepared by Preconstruct. The assessment
has been carried out in general conformity with best practice and with reference to relevant
legislation and guidance. The assessment of the impact of the development on townscape and
views forms two separate but inter-related assessments – the first looking at the impact of the
character of the area and the second assessing the impact on viewers looking towards the site.
7.2 The assessment process has encompassed a field survey, desk based studies, analysis to define
the current character of the area and the identification of representative points at which the site
can be seen and assessment should be carried out. The study area essentially comprises the area
within which the site can be seen. The scope and approach to the assessment has been agreed
with LBHF.
Existing Conditions
7.3 The baseline conditions are largely as described in the site description earlier in this Non-
Technical Summary and are therefore not repeated here.
7.4 The area within which the site can be seen can be defined as including:-
• The stretch of the River Thames between Hammersmith Bridge (over 1.5km to the north-
west of the site) and Putney Bridge (over 1km to the south-east of the site);
• Within a 1km radius of the site, the development could be visible from parts of Bishops Park
and Fulham Palace although mature trees will limit the potential for views. Parts of the new
stand will also be seen along residential streets to the east of the ground including Stevenage
Road and Greswell Street;
• To the west, some filtered views of the development could be visible from London Wetland
Centre, Barn Elms Playing Fields and Sports Centre, as well as parts of Old Barnes Cemetery
and Putney Lower Common, although there is extensive screening from trees and other
vegetation along the River; and
• Views from south of Putney Bridge, including from Wandsworth Park will be screened by
the mature trees within Bishops Park.
Pg 16Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
7.5 In terms of the character of the area, it falls within a broad area of ‘Inner London’ and has the
following features:-
1 The River Thames is the most immediately visible natural feature;
2 There is an extensive network of parks and open spaces, woodlands and trees; and
3 There is a mix of modern architecture and built heritage features.
7.6 In terms of points at which it is considered assessment of the impact of the development on
views should be carried out, the following have been identified:-
1 Residents immediately surrounding the Site with an outlook from main living room
windows towards the site. This may include residents in Stevenage Road and Woodlawn
Road, Harbord Street and Finlay Street as well as River Gardens to the north of the site
2 Pedestrians and cyclists on the Thames Path (Surrey and Middlesex sides)
3 Pedestrians, cyclists and motorists on Stevenage Road, Harbord Street, Greswell Street,
Woodlawn Road and Finlay Street
4 People crossing Hammersmith and Putney Bridges
5 Users of Bishop’s Park, Barnes Common / Barn Elms Playing fields and Stevenage Park,
whose focus is on amenity;
6 People using the river for recreation purposes and
7 Tourists / people sightseeing and visitors to Fulham Palace or other attractions whose
attention is likely to be on visual amenity.
7.7 From that list, a total of 22 ‘representative views’ have been identified from a variety of distances
that have been considered as part of the assessment. From seven of these views, the impact at
night has also been considered.
Figure 7.1 Viewpoints considered as part of the EIA
Pg 17Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
Effects during Construction and Operation of the Development
7.8 During the construction of the stand, it has also been assumed that the period of works will take
approximately 3 years, that high value trees within Bishops Park will be protected, that the park
will be reinstated to its current condition after the construction concludes and that the
construction area will be screened during the works. With those measures assumed to be in
place, a temporary moderate adverse effect on the Park itself and minor to moderate adverse
visual effects of people using the Park are anticipated to occur throughout this period. There
will be a range of adverse effects on the townscape character of the surrounding areas ranging
from negligible to moderate adverse, including temporary minor to moderate effects on the
River Thames Townscape Character Area.
7.9 There will also be negligible to moderate adverse visual effects on people using the Thames Path
on both banks (depending on their proximity to the Site), minor to moderate adverse effects on
people visiting the Barn Elms boathouse and negligible effects elsewhere. None of the effects are
considered to be significant due to their temporary nature and short duration.
7.10 During the operation of the Stand, a number of matters are ‘built in’ to the design of the
development and are relevant to the assessment:-
1 Glazing and vegetation that is sympathetic to the qualities of the River and nearby Bishops
Park and Stevenage Park;
2 Scale of stand similar to the stand that is subject of an extant planning permission;
3 Stepping down in scale to the north and south ends of the stands to meet Bishops Park and
Stevenage Park;
4 Removal of free-standing floodlights and floodlights set within the new roof of the stand;
5 ’Floating’ roof structure’ and stepped form help to break down massing of the proposed
development; and
6 Design of public realm in Bishops Park to avoid harm to existing high value trees
7.11 With these measures in place, the new stand will have no adverse townscape or visual effects. It
is considered that the scale can be readily accommodated in the context of the scale of the trees
in Bishops Park, the width of the River Thames and the varied character of Fulham Reach. The
architectural design reflects elements of boathouse buildings and creates a positive and active
frontage to the River.
7.12 There will be a moderate beneficial effect on the ground itself and a residual minor beneficial
effect on Bishops Park. It will also have a minor beneficial effect on the Fulham Reach
conservation area. People using the Thames Path on the Surrey Bank will experience a range of
effects ranging from negligible to major beneficial where the existing Stand is seen.
7.13 The new floodlights will reduce the level of lightspill to adjacent residential areas. The
townscape effect of lighting in the evening will reinforce the landmark role of the football
ground in townscape terms. On match days, the new floodlights will ensure that the situation
will be improved.
Mitigation and Monitoring
7.14 Mitigation measures during the construction period have been detailed above. With these in
place, and secured through the planning permission, the impacts identified can be ensured.
7.15 No additional mitigation is required during the operational period.
Pg 18Fulham Football Club New Riverside Stand : Environmental Statement Non-Technical Summary (November 2017)
8.0 Transport
8.1 The assessment of impacts of the development on transport has been carried out by experienced
engineers at WSP. It has had regard to relevant policy at all levels. It has been based on a
detailed Transport Assessment, the scope of which has been agreed with LBHF and Transport
for London (‘TfL’). The study area considered is as follows:-
1 Travel by foot – the focus is on access to local public transport services including bus stops
within 640m, and Putney Bridge and Hammersmith Underground stations;
2 Travel by cycle – the focus is on access the surrounding highway network to Putney Bridge
to the south and Hammersmith to the north;
3 Travel by public transport – the focus is on access to bus stops within 640m walk, and to
local public transport interchanges such as Putney Bridge and Hammersmith stations;
4 Travel by car – particularly relating to Stevenage Road and the A219 Fulham Palace Road,
together with on-street parking within LBHF Zones X, Y, T, H, W, U and R.
8.2 The assessment has had regard to the impact of the development on pedestrians, cyclists, users
of public transport and users of the highway network. The existing conditions in the area have
been determined through desktop research, mapping analysis, site visits, spectator travel
surveys and traffic surveys. Traffic counts were carried out during September 2017 on
matchdays and non-matchdays.
Existing Conditions
8.3 The graph below shows the findings from a travel survey of arrivals and departures at both a
weeknight evening match and a weekend match and shows when people arrive and leave the
area (to establish demand on transport networks).
Figure 8.1 Existing Arrival and Departure Profiles (Weekend and Weeknight Games)
8.4 This shows that, at the weekend, 76.1% of spectators arrive in the area one hour before kick-off,
with this increasing to 85% for weeknight fixtures. This pattern of arrival is expected as
supporters are more likely to travel directly from places of work, with less time to use facilities in
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