Higher Kinnerton

Landscape and Visual Assessment Report Ref: 5429.003 October 2015 Version 2.0

Higher Kinnerton Landscape and Visual Assessment Document Reference: 5429.003 Version 2.0 October 2015

Prepared by: Catherine Queen CMLI

TEP Genesis Centre Birchwood Science Park Warrington WA3 7BH Tel: 01925 844004 Fax: 01925 844002 E-mail: [email protected]

Written: Checked: Approved: CAQ TS IG

Higher Kinnerton Landscape and Visual Assessment

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Planning Policy

3.0 Baseline Environment – Landscape

4.0 Baseline Environment – Views

5.0 The proposed development

6.0 Assessment of Likely Significant Effects on Landscape

7.0 Assessment of Likely Significant Effects on Views

8.0 LVIA compliance with planning policy

9.0 Conclusions

APPENDICES

Appendix 1: Method

Appendix 2: Visual Effects Tables

DRAWING

Figure 1 Site Location

Figure 2.1 LANDMAP – Landscape Habitats

Figure 2.2 LANDMAP – Visual Sensory

Figure 2.3 LANDMAP – Geology

Figure 2.4 LANDMAP – Historic Landscape

Figure 2.5 LANDMAP – Cultural Landscape

Figure 3 Local Context Plan

Figure 4 Visual Receptor Plan

Figure 5 Photograph Location Plan

Figures 6.1 to 6.7 Photograph Sheets

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1.0 Introduction 1.1 This report has been written by Chartered Landscape Architects from The Environment Partnership (TEP) Ltd. It assesses the landscape character and nature of views towards the site on land off Kinnerton Lane, Higher Kinnerton. The assessment includes:  A review of landscape policy relating to the site;  A description of the existing landscape character;  A description of existing views towards the application site of the Proposed Development;  A description of the Proposed Development in landscape terms; and  An assessment of the effects on the landscape character and on views. 1.2 The development will comprise 56 new detached and semi-detached houses with shared and single access driveways and new garden boundaries. The properties will be set behind a retained grassland verge containing the existing mature trees and sections of hedgerow around the periphery of the application site. 1.3 Houses will be one and two storeys high and constructed in brick to match the existing development in Higher Kinnerton. 1.4 The assessment was carried out in October 2015 and has been undertaken in accordance with the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA), Third Edition (Landscape Institute/Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2013). The method is described at Appendix 1 of this report.

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2.0 Planning Policy

2.1 This section reviews national and local landscape planning policy relevant to the site of the Proposed Development and the surrounding area.

National Planning Policy Planning Policy (Edition 7, July 2014)

2.2 Planning Policy Wales (PPW) sets out the Government’s planning policies for Wales and how these are expected to be applied at a local level in development plans and how developers should adhere to them. PPW places great emphasis on plans and developments contributing to sustainable development. The following sections of PPW are applicable to this Landscape and Views Assessment. Chapter 4: Planning for Sustainability

2.3 The Government emphasises the importance of the design of the built environment. Design is taken to mean the relationship between all elements of the natural and built environment. Sustainable development must include the social, environmental and economic aspects of the development, including its construction, operation and management and its relationship to its surroundings.

2.4 PPW sets out objectives of good design that development should achieve including the need to:  Ensure ease of access for all;  Sustain and enhance local character, promoting innovative design;  Promote sustainable means of travel;  Achieve efficient use and protection of natural resources; and  Ensure attractive, safe public spaces.

Chapter 5: Conserving and Improving Natural Heritage and the Coast

2.5 Planning Policy Wales identifies the importance for developments to enhance the natural and local environment by protecting and enhancing valued landscapes. The Welsh Government’s objectives for the conservation and improvement of the natural heritage are to:  Promote the conservation of landscape and biodiversity, in particular the conservation of native wildlife and habitats;  Ensure that action in Wales contributes to meeting international responsibilities and obligations for the natural environment;  Ensure that statutorily designated sites are properly protected and managed;  Safeguard protected species; and to

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 Promote the functions and benefits of soils, and in particular their function as a carbon store.

Technical Advice Notes (TANs) (to be read in conjunction with Planning Policy Wales)

2.6 The following TANs have policy which may be relevant to the proposed development. Tan 5: Nature Conservation and Planning, 2009, states that it is important to ‘integrate nature conservation into all planning decisions’.

2.7 TAN 12: Design is also relevant to this development proposal and should be considered in conjunction with Local Planning Policy.

Local Planning Policy

2.8 County Council’s Unitary Development Plan (UDP) provides guidelines as to what can be built in specific locations and covers the period up to the end of 2015.

2.9 The policies set out in the UDP, and identified in the pre-planning application advice report, relating to landscape are summarised in Table 2.1 below.

Table 2.1: Relevant Flintshire UDP (2015) policies

Relevant Flintshire UDP Policies Policy Summary and Relevance to the Proposed Development Site STR1 New Development New development will be generally located within existing settlement boundaries and will only be permitted outside these areas where it is essential to have an open countryside location; required to incorporate high standards of design which are appropriate to the building, site and locality; STR8 Built Environment The built environment of the County will be protected and enhanced in terms of the setting and integrity of the historic environment of the County, including listed buildings, conservation areas, archaeology and historic landscapes, parks and gardens; STR10 Resources Development will be required to make the best use of resources through the utilisation of land in terms of density, siting and layout GEN1 General Requirements for Development that requires planning Development permission should be located on land which satisfies the following requirements: the development should harmonise with the site and surroundings in terms of the siting, scale, design, layout, use of space, materials, external appearance and landscaping;

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the development should not have a significant adverse impact on woodlands, other landscape features, townscapes, nor the general natural and historic environment; GEN3 Development in the Open Development proposals outside settlement Countryside boundaries will not be permitted with certain exceptions. D1 Design Quality, Location and All development must incorporate good Layout standards of design. Development will be permitted only if it respects the scale of surrounding development, its location, siting, and layout make the best use of land, minimise the need to travel, and provide a safe and attractive environment; it relates well to local topography, aspect, microclimate, street pattern, orientation and views; adequate provision is made for space around buildings, setting of buildings, imaginative parking and landscaping solutions; D2 Design Development will be permitted only where the proposed building and structures are of a good standard of design, form, scale and materials; and it protects the character and amenity of the locality and adds to the quality and distinctiveness of the local area. D3 Landscaping New development will be required, where appropriate, to include a hard and soft landscaping scheme which considers:- a. landscape or townscape character of the locality; b. the topography of the site; c. aspect, microclimate and soil type; d. existing man-made and natural features; e. existing trees and vegetation; f. use of indigenous species and materials; g. appropriate boundary treatment; and h. nature conservation interests. Good landscaping is an essential component of successful development. Landscape will be treated as an integral part of the overall context of the development. For larger scale developments a strategic landscape assessment would be needed, for other developments a detailed site appraisal which may include the visual effects on views and vistas, historic features, topography, microclimate, aspect and biodiversity maximisation would be appropriate. TWH1 Development Affecting Trees The Council will protect from development and Woodlands those woodlands and trees which are considered to be important local landscape, townscape and wildlife features. TWH2 Protection of Hedgerows Hedgerows which are important for their wildlife, landscape, historic or archaeological value will be safeguarded from significant damage or loss. Where development proposals affect hedgerows the Council will seek to ensure that, wherever possible, they are retained and incorporated into the layout of the development.

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AC2 Pedestrian Provision and Development proposals will be permitted Public Rights of Way only where any existing public rights of way are retained and integrated sympathetically into the landscaping of the site. Where diversion or alternative provision is deemed necessary, this should be designed and located to provide at least equivalent convenience and enjoyment and the diversion should be completed before the development commences. There is an extensive network of public footpaths and bridleways throughout the Plan area, which has traditionally provided safe and convenient access both within and between urban and rural areas. Rights of way can also have other values, being part of the character of an area or functioning as important green corridors. If opportunities for walking, either for leisure or more functional purposes are to be maintained, then all existing routes should be retained. The Council has a statutory duty to ensure that the network is open for the use and enjoyment of the public.

SR5 Outdoor Playing Space and New residential development will normally be New Residential Development expected to include outdoor playing space.

Other Local Planning Guidance Local/Supplementary Planning Guidance Notes LPGN 2 Space around dwellings LPGN 4 Trees and development LPGN 13 Open space requirements

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3.0 Baseline Environment - Landscape

Existing Landscape Character 3.1 The following narrative reviews published landscape character assessments relating to the site and the surrounding area. A field survey was undertaken to verify the findings of the desk-based review.

Summary of Published Landscape Assessments LANDMAP 3.2 LANDMAP is landscape guidance for Wales developed by the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) now part of Natural Resources Wales (NRW). Landscape characteristics, qualities and influences on the landscape are recorded and evaluated into a nationally consistent data and retained as a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) based landscape resource. The information is recorded in five layers: the Geological Landscape, Landscape Habitats, Visual & Sensory, Historic Landscape and Cultural Landscape. 3.3 Natural Resources Wales’ guidance on the application of LANDMAP explains that use of all five layers of information promotes sustainable landscape decision- making as what may be of low importance in one particular layer may be of high importance in another. The layers most relevant to this assessment are ‘Landscape Habitats’ and ‘Visual & Sensory’ however for completeness data from each of the layers has been included. 3.2 Within the landscape character areas are ‘aspects’. Each ‘aspect’ is evaluated and given a score. Aspects include Geological Landscapes, Landscape Habitats, Visual and Sensory, Historic and Cultural Landscapes.

3.3 The evaluation categories are as follows: Outstanding sites or areas of international or national importance;

High sites or areas of regional or county importance;

Moderate sites or areas of local importance;

Low sites or areas of low value;

Unknown where insufficient information exists to allow the element to be properly evaluated.

3.4 Results of the evaluation matrix for ‘Aspects’ of the site across LANDMAP are described below and illustrated on Figures 2.1 to 2.5:

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Landscape Habitats

3.5 The site is in FLNTLH025 Sealand Grassland and is classified as Dry (Relatively) Terrestrial Habitats/Mosaic. The surface water gley soils, and ground water gley soils, support Semi-improved Neutral Grassland and Improved Grassland. The area comprises grassland and farmland in a wider area of flat and fertile arable and pasture land. The overall assessment is moderate which acknowledges the biodiversity of the wider area, particularly where there are ditches and ponds. Visual and Sensory

3.6 The site is within Visual and Sensory Area FLNTVS069 Llanfynydd to Higher Kinnerton farmland. The aspect area classification is lowland, rolling lowland, mosaic rolling lowland. Kinnerton traditional farmland is described as a gently rolling lowland farmland with a strong pattern of small pastoral fields enclosed by thick hedges with trees. Settlement is scattered farmsteads and dwellings, some exhibiting suburban detailing. Most scattered dwellings are built in stone with some brick and render. Small lanes and footpaths cross the area. 3.7 There are some attractive views into and out of the area and there are few detractors. The value is moderate with positive views to the north and south. The area is in moderately good condition and has a consistent character. It has a moderate sense of place and a character which is considered to be typical of Flintshire. Geological Landscape

3.8 The site is within Geological Landscape Area FLNTGL752 Northrop-Buckley- Broughton Lowland Hills and Valleys. The area classification is Lowland Glacial/fluvioglacial depositional terrain, Lowland till plain/field. It is described as being typical of the county with a moderate value and is in good condition where unmodified in urban areas. Historic Landscape

3.9 The site is in FLNTHL745 Kinnerton. It is classified as rural environment/agricultural/ irregular fieldscapes. The value of the area is high due to the diverse fieldscape, areas of broadleaved and deciduous woodland and strip plantations. The assessment identifies modern settlement of 18th and 19th century including scattered farmsteads. It also describes the small nucleated settlement at Higher Kinnerton which is of early medieval origin. Cultural Landscape

3.10 The site is in FLNTCL018 Kinnerton: The aspect area classification is urban settlement and the material expressions, Urban. FLNTCL018 covers an area which extends from the urban edge of to the west, includes the settlement of Broughton to the north and terminates at the border between Wales and to the east.

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3.11 It is described as a rural settlement comprising 20th century estate development and with a cultural identity as a modern estate development which is locally culturally important. The area also is described as having no special or functional link with an adjacent area. 3.12 The value of the area is moderate with no deep roots and no significant cultural story although it is of importance to the people who live there and expansion of the settlement might alter the character of the surrounding area.

Landscape and Townscape Designations 3.13 The site lies outside the settlement boundary of Higher Kinnerton and is designated as open countryside in the UDP although it is not in a green barrier. There are three Grade II Listed Buildings close to the site at Crompton Hall and Kinnerton Lodge (2). There are no landscape or townscape designations. Landscape Character of the site and its immediate surroundings The Site 3.14 The site is on the northern edge of the village of Higher Kinnerton. Site photographs are presented at Figure 6.1 to 6.7. 3.15 The land is gently sloping to the east and comprises farmland with scattered trees to the northern boundary, adjacent Kinnerton Lane. The site is currently separated into two parcels by a timber post and rail fence. The eastern parcel of the site is slightly different in character and contains groups of tall pine trees in grassland. Aerial photography indicates that this land has been used for agriculture in the past. The northern boundary of the site is bounded by Kinnerton Lane and is defined by a well-maintained hedgerow. The southern boundary abuts modern residential areas of Higher Kinnerton including properties on Springfield Court and Llys Derwen. The western extent of the site is bounded by a post and wire fence beyond which is a Public Right of Way (PRoW 5). Surrounding Landscape 3.16 The site is part of a wider landscape of rolling farmland interspersed with woodland blocks, small watercourses and well-maintained hedgerows frequently containing trees. Pastureland for sheep and cattle is a feature of the landscape although there is also some arable land. Settlement comprises villages, such as Higher Kinnerton, and scattered farmsteads set within treed boundaries. Ponds and drains are common and are frequently delineated by riparian woodland belts. Woodland is typically deciduous although some evergreen screens have been planted to shelter individual properties. 3.17 Wider views are possible from some elevated locations revealing a wooded pastoral landscape which extends across the Wales and England border. The distant landscape is characterised by dense woodland belts breaking up arable and pastoral land before extending into the flatter and more urban areas to the east. The

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distant hills of the Sandstone Ridge are the most notable landform in the view.

3.18 Fields are frequently regular in shape although smaller field sizes are apparent around the villages, hamlets and scattered farms. Boundary treatments comprise well-maintained hedgerows containing mature deciduous trees. Hedgerows are generally maintained to a medium height, up to 1.5m, although there is localised variation and some are taller. Hedgerow trees are throughout the area although often clustered around properties and along roads. 3.19 Rural roads are a mix of straight main roads and meandering and often narrow lanes which are lined by mature hedgerows giving a strong sense of enclosure. Where the road boundaries are more open, the gently rolling landform provides a sense of enclosure enhanced by tree belts. Built form 3.20 Higher Kinnerton is built on a gentle east-facing slope within the undulating landform and woodland belts. The south-eastern boundary of the town is marked by a dismantled railway and a short stretch of Sandy Lane.

3.21 Other notable settlements across the landscape include with its Conservation Area approximately 1km to the north-east of Higher Kinnerton. Other built form tends to be isolated properties and farmsteads and associated farm buildings and small clusters of dwellings nestled in the landscape and protected by trees.

3.22 Penyffordd is 2.5km west of the site but is screened by the form of the landscape whereas Broughton, some 1.5km north is clearly visible from elevated positions not least due to the large structures associated with industry and retail. The city of Chester is visible from isolated viewpoints with the cathedral tower being visible on the city skyline.

Landscape Character Summary

3.23 The characteristics of the site and surrounding area can be summarised as:  Gently undulating farmland and pasture interspersed with tree belts;  Well-developed and frequently maintained hedgerows containing scattered trees;  Wooded watercourses and drains through the landscape;  Higher Kinnerton on the east-facing land sloping down to the Welsh border;  Frequent farmsteads and individual properties throughout the countryside; and  Occasional panoramic views to the Wirral peninsula are possible from low ridges in the landscape and framed by woodland blocks.

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Value of the Landscape

3.29 The site comprises farmland, pasture and scattered trees on the northern edge of the settlement of Higher Kinnerton. The gently sloping land is an extension of the wider farmland but is strongly influenced by the urban edge of Higher Kinnerton.

3.30 There is no public access to the main part of the site although there is a public footpath, which follows the western boundary, linking Kinnerton Lane and Park Avenue.

3.31 The existing modern development on the northern edge of Higher Kinnerton has a poor relationship with the land due to a range of predominantly two – storey properties which back onto the land bounded by a mis-match of garden boundary treatments. This, combined with a degree of enclosure from a disused railway line to the south-east results in an inward-looking settlement which largely follows Main Road. There are no landscape or townscape designations and only a small number of Grade II Listed Buildings.

3.32 Overall, the landscape and townscape are of local value.

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4.0 Baseline Environment - Views 4.1 The site is on a gentle eastern facing slope comprising farmland on the edge of the village of Higher Kinnerton. Views are predominantly short distance within 0.5 km of the site. 4.2 The site is bordered by a PRoW between Kinnerton Lane and Park Avenue to the west; Kinnerton Lane to the north-east and the urban edge of the village to the south-east. Views are limited by a combination of landform, the local vegetation pattern and the urban edge of the village. Identified Visual Receptors 4.3 The following categories of visual receptors have been identified as part of the baseline assessment: Public Views 1. PRoW 5 immediately to the west of the site and linking Kinnerton Lane to Park Avenue; 2. PRoW 4 to the south-west and linking Bramley Lane to Park Avenue; 3. Users of Kinnerton Lane; 4. Users of Lesters Lane; 5. Users of Llys Derwen; and 6. Users of Main Road. Private Views A. The Pines; B. Residents in The Brackens; C. Users of the Royal Oak Public House; D. Residents in Llys Derwen and Springfield Court; E. Gwyn’s Nook; F. Kinnerton Lodge; G. Brook Farm; H. Crompton Hall and The Barn; J. Rose Mount; and K. Mount Farm and The Mount

Extent of Views of the Site 4.4 The majority of views are experienced by local residents; users of PRoW and users of the local road network.

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Nature of Existing Views 4.5 A summary of the nature of existing views from visual receptors identified on Figure 4 is provided below. Figure 5 illustrates the locations of photographs which are shown on Figures 6.1 to 6.7. These Figures illustrate summer views when screening by trees and hedgerows is at its maximum. 4.6 There is no public access into the site from the surrounding area. It is possible to walk along the western boundary of the site along a PRoW (Receptor 1). From most of the permissive routes across the wider area, views of the site are filtered by intervening vegetation and landform although the built form on the southern site boundary can be glimpsed in views. Views from the North 4.7 Views from receptors to the north (within 1km of the site) are primarily Lesters Lane (Receptor 4; Photograph 6) and properties along the road including The Mount and Mount Farm (Receptor K). The properties are elevated on a gentle ridgeline across Lesters Lane and the road undulates in response to the narrow valleys and drains which are a feature of the landform. Views from the road and properties are of slightly elevated farmland with scattered trees and boundary hedgerows. The urban edge of Higher Kinnerton is a feature of the view immediately behind the site. 4.8 Other views to the north are possible from Kinnerton Lane which follows the northern boundary of the site. Road users (Receptor 3, Photographs 5, 8 and 9) experience intermittent views of the site which is predominantly screened by a well- maintained hedgerow. Glimpsed views are possible through gateways in the hedge. 4.9 Properties off Kinnerton Lane include Gwyn’s Nook (Receptor E, Photograph 7) and Kinnerton Lodge (Receptor F) which have views towards the northern and western boundaries of the site respectively. The rear elevations of properties in Higher Kinnerton are visible immediately beyond the site in these views. Views from the East 4.10 The site is least visible from the east where the number of receptors is restricted by substantial vegetation in the landscape, landform and the channelling of views along Kinnerton Lane. The most direct view from the east is experienced by The Pines (Receptor A, Photograph 8). 4.11 Views towards the site from Main Road (Receptor 6; Photograph 10) at the junction with Kinnerton Lane are fleeting and framed by a combination of built form and vegetation. The site is visible as part of the farmed landscape with the view terminating at The Covert. Views from the South 4.12 To the south, views are primarily from the adjacent housing development which largely backs onto the site. Views at ground level are frequently screened by garden boundary fences and vegetation but upper storey views from rear elevations are largely open across the site. The local roads within the housing developments,

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including Llys Derwen and Springfield Court, have limited views towards the site due to the combination of built form and garden vegetation. 4.13 There are no distant views of the site from the south. Views from the West 4.14 The site is generally screened in views from the west by the gently sloping land which rises westward from the village of Higher Kinnerton before falling again beyond a gentle ridgeline to the east of Bramley Lane. Longer distance views from the west are generally not possible.

Summary of Views 4.15 The site is on gently sloping ground on land north of, and abutting, the village of Higher Kinnerton. There are a number of receptors which will experience views of the site particularly from the south. 4.16 Views from receptors immediately adjacent to the site tend to be of the arable and grass fields. From roads, footpaths and properties beyond 1km, views are largely confined to winter due to the dense local vegetation pattern. 4.17 Long distance views are very limited in summer although the site may be seen in the context of the village in glimpsed views in winter. 4.18 Receptors that have the potential to experience the greatest change in their views include:  PRoW 5 to the immediate west of the site;  Kinnerton Lane;  PRoW 4 from selected locations; Residents in the following residential properties:  Gwyn’s Nook;  The Pines; and  Properties on the northern edge of Higher Kinnerton.

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5.0 The Proposed Development 5.1 The site comprises farmland, pasture and scattered trees on the northern edge of the settlement of Higher Kinnerton. The gently sloping land is an extension of the wider farmland but is strongly influenced by the urban edge of Higher Kinnerton.

5.2 The proposed site layout is shown on drawing number HK-PL-001 and described in the Design and Access Statement submitted as part of a full application for the erection of 56 no. dwellings with associated garages, car parking, public open space, landscaping, means of access and site infrastructure.

5.3 The site area measures approximately 7.20 acres in total (2.91 Ha), the net developable area is 5.38 acres (2.18 Ha).

5.4 The main elements of the layout include:

 56no. Units in total including 17 affordable units.

 A main access point off Kinnerton Lane, with a further private access point also off Kinnerton Lane for plots 13-16.

 Total public open space including a Local Area for Play (LAP) and Landscape Buffer on western boundary equal to 7,401m².

 Landscape buffer providing a green edge to the development.

 New hedgerows to be planted as part of Landscaping Plan.

 New footpath along Kinnerton Lane to increase permeability through the site and around the perimeter.

 Existing public footpath link to Park Avenue to be reinstated connecting the site with village amenities.

5.5 The majority of the existing trees and hedgerows to the three sides of the site boundaries will be protected during construction to retain the landscape character and form part of the landscaped buffer around the site.

5.6 The height and scale of the proposed dwellings will be two storeys with the exception of 4 no. bungalow units which will be one storey in height. This is in keeping with the existing scale of development within Higher Kinnerton. Quality materials are to be used for the proposed development to ensure that the finishes will be compatible with the surrounding built form.

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6.0 Assessment of Likely Significant Effects on Landscape

Landscape Susceptibility to Change 6.1 The application site is on the edge of Higher Kinnerton which, along its northern edge, is characterised by modern residential development. Kinnerton Lane, to the north of the application site, is lined by a mature hedgerow and contains scattered trees. These, in combination with the sloping landform, woodland blocks and treed hedgerows in the wider landscape help to provide a degree of enclosure. 6.2 The site is bordered by modern residential development to the south which is characterised by predominantly two-storey dwellings, detached and semi-detached, constructed in brick. There are some single-storey dwellings close to the south-west corner of the site. Other scattered individual dwellings in the landscape appear remote from the modern infrastructure of the village boundaries and are more typical of the local rural vernacular. 6.3 The application site is an area of farmland which is enclosed by Kinnerton Lane and Higher Kinnerton to the north and south but appears as an extension of the wider farmed landscape to the west, both physically and visually. The western boundary of the land is formed by a PRoW which is demarcated by a simple post and wire fence but without hedgerows or trees. 6.4 In summary there is a moderate degree of enclosure and rural character to the application site and surrounding area and development, including modern development is present immediately adjacent to the application site. The landscape of the area surrounding the application site would be able to accommodate the proposed development without suffering detrimental effects on its character and it has a medium susceptibility to change of the type proposed in the application. Landscape Sensitivity 6.5 The application site and its immediate surroundings are in a good condition typical of land managed for arable and pasture uses. The application site is currently informal grassland with scattered trees and a change to residential development will alter its landscape character. The application site has a medium susceptibility to change of the type comprised in the application and it is of local value. The application site has medium sensitivity.

Construction 6.6 During construction there would be an increased level of activity on the application site which would have a short to medium-term effect on the character of the application site and the immediate surrounding landscape. During this period the character of the application site would be altered by construction activity. Construction would involve temporary operation of plant and machinery engaged in soil-stripping and storage, followed by construction works for the new houses and access driveways. Most work would take place at heights no greater than the houses being built. The use of higher cranes or rigs is only anticipated to occur on

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a short-term basis associated with deliveries, foundation and roofing work. Works would proceed across the application site in phases, typically commencing with construction of new access driveways and sewers, followed by housing. Temporary structures would include compounds, stockpiles for soil and stone, hoardings and fencing. As construction proceeds, the new buildings would become increasingly visible, altering the character of the application site from being farmland with trees to a site with increased human activity and new urban elements. 6.7 The trees around the periphery of, and within, the application site are distinctive features and would be retained during construction work and would help maintain some consistency of landscape character during the construction phase. In addition, sections of the roadside hedgerow would be retained. The magnitude of effect on landscape character would be moderate adverse during the construction period in that there would be a great scale of change on the local landscape but this would be for a short duration. 6.8 The landscape is of medium sensitivity to the proposed development. Given the moderate magnitude of effect during construction, the significance of effect would be moderate adverse

Operation 6.9 During operation the developed parts of the application site would be an enduring presence in the landscape. They would alter the application site’s landscape character from farmland containing mature trees to being a low density primarily two-storey residential area with brick-built houses and associated gardens and access driveways surrounded by mature trees. 6.10 The development would alter the character of the application site from agriculture to residential development and would introduce a suburban character. However suburban influences are currently present to south and east of the site. The proposed development would result in a high magnitude of effect on the site’s landscape as the application site character would be completely altered. Given the site’s medium sensitivity this would give rise to a moderate adverse significance of effect for the site. 6.11 The retention of mature trees and hedges on the boundary and within the application site would assist in retaining the characteristic of mature trees and hedgerows in the wider landscape and would provide a mature setting for residential development. This would give rise to a low adverse significance of effect for the wider landscape.

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7.0 Assessment of Likely Significant Effects on Views 7.1 This section summarises anticipated changes in baseline views. Appendix 2 provides a Visual Impact Table with a detailed narrative describing the predicted visual effects (during operation and after 15 years) that would be experienced by each receptor. Baseline views are illustrated on Figures 6.1 to 6.7 illustrating summer views. Visual Sensitivity 7.2 Receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility to change where they are walkers and cyclists using the local PRoW or road network. Motorists would have a medium susceptibility to change as they are more transient and experience views for a shorter period of time. Most views are of local importance. The area around Higher Kinnerton is of local importance with residents having a medium susceptibility to change. Other public and private receptors have a medium or low sensitivity.

Visual effects during the Construction Phase 7.3 The greatest visual effects resulting from construction works are anticipated where low-level views are possible, where the application site forms a large part of the receptor’s view and where there is little or no intervening screening or filtering. Views would comprise temporary operation of plant, vehicles and machinery engaged in soil-stripping, road construction and building operations including the use of scaffolding, temporary compounds, stockpiles, hoardings and fencing. Construction activity usually would be at no more than two storey heights although occasionally taller cranes and rigs may be needed. Views of construction activities generally would be filtered by the retained mature trees and garden vegetation around the periphery of the application site would help to soften and filter views of construction activities. Public Views 7.4 Public views identified would have medium sensitivity to the construction of the Proposed Development. Motorists using local roads would experience views fleetingly and for a short duration of time and are assigned a low to moderate sensitivity. Cyclist and pedestrian users of these roads have moderate sensitivity. When determining the significance of effect, the higher sensitivity of pedestrians and cyclists has been used. 7.5 During construction the magnitude of visual effects in public views would range from high adverse to negligible. 7.6 Visual effects during construction would be temporary and over the short and medium-terms. Given the high adverse to negligible magnitude of effects predicted, and the low to medium sensitivity of public views assessed, the significance of visual effects would range between moderate adverse to negligible during construction.

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Private Views 7.7 All private views identified towards the application would have a medium sensitivity to construction works, other than users of the Royal Oak Public House who would have a low sensitivity to proposed construction work. Visual effects resulting from proposed construction works would be temporary and over the short and medium- terms. Visual effects of moderate adverse magnitude would be experienced by residents immediately overlooking the application site such as properties on Llys Derwen and Springfield Court (Receptor D), The Pines (Receptor A) and Gwyn’s Nook (Receptor E). These properties would experience a great scale of change during construction but for a short duration. Views from other residential properties are slightly more filtered or more distant and the magnitude of effect would range from low to moderate adverse. Given the medium to low sensitivity of private views assessed, the moderate to low adverse magnitude of effects but the short duration, the significance of visual effects would range between moderate adverse to minor adverse.

Visual effects during Operation 7.8 Table 7.1 summarises the judgements recorded in the Visual Impact Table (Appendix 2) when assessing anticipated visual effects of the proposed residential development on each of the visual receptors.

Table 7.1 Summary of anticipated visual effects

Significance Significance Magnitude of Effect of Effect 15 of Effect during Visual Receptor Sensitivity years after during operation completion operation (medium- (long-term) term) Walkers, cyclists and motorists along the following roads. 1 High Moderate Moderate Minor adverse PRoW 5 adverse adverse 2 Medium Low adverse Minor Negligible PRoW 4 adverse 3 Kinnerton Medium Low adverse Minor Negligible Lane adverse 4 Low Low adverse Minor Minor adverse Lesters Lane adverse reducing to Negligible 5 Low Low adverse Minor Negligible Llys Derwen adverse 6 Low Low adverse Minor Negligible Main Road adverse Private Receptors A Medium Moderate Moderate Minor adverse The Pines adverse adverse

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Significance Significance Magnitude of Effect of Effect 15 of Effect during Visual Receptor Sensitivity years after during operation completion operation (medium- (long-term) term) B The Brackens Low Negligible Negligible Negligible C Royal Oak Low Negligible Negligible Negligible Public House D Llys Derwen Medium Moderate Moderate Minor adverse and adverse adverse Springfield Court E Medium Moderate Moderate Minor adverse Gwyn’s Nook adverse adverse F Low Low adverse Minor Minor adverse Kinnerton adverse reducing to Lodge Negligible G Low Low adverse Minor Negligible Brook Farm adverse H Crompton Medium Low adverse Minor Minor adverse Hall Farm and adverse reducing to The Barn Negligible J Rose Mount Low Negligible Negligible Negligible K Mount Farm Low Low adverse Minor Minor adverse and The adverse reducing to Mount Negligible

Visual Effects during operation Public Views 7.9 The greatest adverse visual effects predicted in public views on completion of the Proposed Development would be experienced by receptors closest to the application site. A visual effect of moderate adverse significance would be experienced by walkers using PRoW 5 where views on one side of the path would alter from farmland to an area of residential properties bordering the eastern boundary of the path and altering the character of the view to a suburban environment perceived as an extension of the existing built form to the south. 7.10 The remainder of the receptors are more distant or views are oblique with the site forming a small part of the view, often viewed at speed by road users. Views from these receptors would be glimpses of new development consistent with the existing built form and partially filtered or screened by existing vegetation, retained trees and hedgerows around the periphery of the application site. These views currently contain nearby housing development and would be of minor adverse significance.

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Private Views 7.11 Private views identified towards the proposed development would have a medium or low sensitivity. The greatest adverse visual effects predicted in private views on completion of the Proposed Development would be of moderate adverse magnitude and moderate adverse significance. Retention of mature boundary trees on the edge of the application site, setting back of development, hedgerow boundaries and dense landscape buffer planting would help to minimise visual effects. The new development also would be seen in the context of existing views of the urban edge to the village of Higher Kinnerton to the south 7.12 The majority of private views experiencing a moderate adverse magnitude and significance of visual effect on completion of the proposed development are due to the proximity of the development and it replacing views across farmland. Visual effects of moderate adverse significance would be experienced by residents in Llys Derwen and Springfield Court where existing dwellings would experience rear, predominantly upper storey, views of the new development replacing the existing farmland. 7.13 Visual effects of moderate adverse significance would be experienced by receptors where the development would be closer in the view than the existing urban edge, such as The Pines (Receptor A) and Gwyn’s Nook (Receptor E). The new housing would be set back behind the existing trees to the eastern end of the site and behind the hedgerow and existing trees to the northern edge of the site which would help to provide a softening and in places a filtering of the new development from these receptors. 7.14 Visual effects of minor adverse significance would be experienced by receptors where the new development is viewed at a distance against the existing urban edge of Higher Kinnerton including views from Kinnerton Lodge (Receptor F), Mount Farm and The Mount (Receptor K). Visual effects of minor adverse significance also are predicted where the new development would form a small part of the view such as from the rear of Crompton Hall Farm (Receptor H). Where visual effects cannot be fully assessed at private properties, such as Brook Farm (Receptor G), due to restricted access and the presence of seasonal vegetation, a visual effect of minor adverse significance has been recorded as a worst case scenario on an assumption that glimpsed views may be possible in winter.

8.0 LVIA compliance with planning policy 8.1 The site lies outside the settlement boundary of Higher Kinnerton and is in open countryside in the UDP although it is not within a green barrier. The proposed development is not in accordance with the development plan. 8.2 To comply with Policy GEN1, the application site should harmonise with the site and surroundings in terms of the siting, scale, design, layout, use of space, materials, external appearance and landscaping. In visual terms, the proposed development

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would be seen as an extension of the village and would be broadly compatible in appearance with the existing modern development on the northern boundary of Higher Kinnerton. The proposed site layout would retain landscape features as well as enhancing the wider landscape character by creating a dense landscape buffer to provide a greater degree of separation from the adjacent farmland.

9.0 Conclusions 9.1 The application site lies on farmland at the northern edge of the village of Higher Kinnerton. The application site is a mix of arable and grassland with a number of scattered trees, including a distinctive group of pines to the eastern end of the site. 9.2 The proposed development is low density residential housing with the frontage of the application site to Kinnerton Lane developed as an open area with pedestrian access. The mature trees and hedgerows within and around the periphery of the application site would be retained except for short sections of hedgerow requiring removal or relocation to facilitate access into the application site. This removal would not affect the continuity of the tree canopy in wider views. The area around the group of pines at the eastern end of the site will be retained as open space provision. 9.3 There would be a moderate adverse effect on landscape character on the application site as the development would alter the application site from farmland to residential development with a suburban character. However, the development would be consistent with the adjacent built form of the village and would be contained on two sides by existing dwellings and a busy road, Kinnerton Lane. The development therefore would form an extension to the existing built form of the village. The design and scale of the proposed residential properties set behind a landscape buffer and retention of trees and hedgerows would help to create a strong landscaped boundary treatment which would separate the application site from the wider landscape and integrate it into the setting of the village. 9.4 Visual receptors surrounding the application site generally are restricted to immediately adjacent, or close to the application site and a few more distant glimpsed or oblique views due to the degree of enclosure afforded by mature trees on the application site and in the wider landscape. 9.5 The only public receptor which would experience a moderate adverse significance of effect is PRoW 5 (Receptor 1). From this receptor, the new development would be visible in close proximity on one side and would occupy a moderate proportion of the view. The character of the view to the east would alter from farmland to a new development but it would be seen in the context of existing dwellings although in closer proximity. Other public receptors would experience visual effects of no greater than minor adverse significance. 9.6 The greatest effects on private views would be experienced by residents of The Pines (Receptor A), Llys Derwen and Springfield Court (Receptor D) and Gwyn’s

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Nook (Receptor E) who would experience a moderate adverse significance of effect due to the proximity of new development altering views from across open farmland. The presence of development immediately beyond the application site in existing views and retention of trees and hedgerow would provide a degree of filtering and reduce the scale of change. 9.7 Minor adverse significance of effects would be experienced in views from dwellings where the new development forms only a small part of the view, or is seen at a distance against the existing built form of the village, including Kinnerton Lodge (Receptor F), Crompton Hall Farm (Receptor H) and Mount Farm/The Mount (Receptor K).

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