Gladman Developments Ltd.
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL APPRAISAL
November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd Registered Office: Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby DE74 2RH Company No. 07128076. [T] 01509 672772 [F] 01509 674565 [E] [email protected] [W] www.fpcr.co.uk
This report is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without the written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd. Ordnance Survey material is used with permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896.
Rev Issue Status Prepared / Date Approved/Date
- DRAFT KAD / 16.10.2015 KMN / 16.10.2015 A Issue KAD / 04.11.2015 KMN / 04.11.2015 B Issue KAD / 05.11.2015 KMN / 05.11.2015
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr
CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 2
2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 3
3.0 PLANNING POLICY ...... 6
4.0 BASELINE CONDITIONS ...... 12
5.0 LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS ...... 21
6.0 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS ...... 30
7.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS ...... 37
FIGURES
Figure 1: Site Location Plan
Figure 2: Topography Plan
Figure 3: Landscape Character
Figure 4: Designations
Figure 5: Aerial Photograph
Figure 6: Visual Appraisal
Figure 7-17: Photo Viewpoints
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Methodology and Assessment Criteria
Appendix B: Landscape Character Assessments – Relevant Published Extracts
Appendix C: Landscape Capacity Assessments – Relevant Published Extracts
Appendix D: Landscape Effects Table
Appendix E: Visual Effects Table
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 This Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) has been carried out for the proposed development by FPCR Environment and Design Ltd (FPCR). The purpose of this LVA study is to provide an assessment of the likely landscape and visual effects of the proposed development. The landscape and visual effects have been considered in relation to the proposals detailed in the planning application and Design and Access Statement (DAS).
Site Location
1.2 The Site is located on the south western edge of Tadley, Hampshire. The location of the proposed development Site is shown at Figure 01.
Proposed Development
1.3 The proposed development comprises of high quality housing development of up to 145 dwellings, 60 Extra Care Retirement Living dwelling and associated Public Open Space and Green Infrastructure (GI).
1.4 The development will be located as illustrated on Development Framework Plan 6343-L-03, the design principles and proposed scheme have been set out in the accompanying DAS.
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2.0 METHODOLOGY
2.1 This LVA has been prepared based upon the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, third edition (GLVIA3), published by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, in 2013.
2.2 In summary the GVLIA3 states:
“Landscape and Visual impact assessment (LVIA), is a tool used to identify and assess the significance of and the effects of change resulting from development on both landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity.”
2.3 There are two components of LVIA:
Assessment of landscape effects; assessing effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right;
Assessment of visual effects: assessing effects on specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people.
2.4 The components of this report include: baseline studies; description and details of the landscape proposals and mitigation measures to be adopted as part of the scheme; identification and description of likely effects arising from the proposed development; and an assessment of the significance of these effects.
2.5 In terms of baseline studies the assessment provides an understanding of the landscape in the area to be affected, its constituent elements, character, condition and value. For the visual baseline this includes an understanding of the area in which the development may be visible, the people who may experience views, and the nature of views.
Assessment of Landscape Effects
2.6 GLVIA3 states that “An assessment of landscape effects deals with the effects of change and development on landscape as a resource”. The baseline landscape is described by reference to existing landscape character assessments and by a description of the site and its context.
2.7 A range of landscape effects can arise through development. These can include:
Change or loss of elements, features, aesthetic or perceptual aspects that contribute to the character and distinctiveness of the landscape
Addition of new elements that influence character and distinctiveness of the landscape
Combined effects of these changes
2.8 The characteristics of the existing landscape resource are considered in respect of the susceptibility of the landscape resource to the change arising from this development. The value of the existing landscape is also considered.
2.9 Each effect on landscape receptors is assessed in terms of size or scale, geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. In terms of size or scale, the judgement takes account of the extent of the existing landscape elements that will be lost or changed, and the degree to which the aesthetic or perceptual aspects or key characteristics of the landscape will be altered by removal or addition of new elements.
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2.10 The overall landscape effect is determined by considering the sensitivity of the landscape receptors and the magnitude of effect on the landscape. Final conclusions on the overall landscape effects are drawn from the assessment components described.
2.11 This appraisal describes the nature of the landscape effects. The criteria used in the appraisal are set out in Appendix A.
Assessment of Visual Effects
2.12 An assessment of visual effects deals with the effects of change and development on the views available to people and their visual amenity.
2.13 The first stage in the assessment is to map approximate visibility. This can be done by a computer Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV), or by manual methods, using map study and field evaluation. A series of viewpoints are included within the assessment that are representative of views towards the Site from surrounding visual receptors. Other views of the Site are included where it supports the description and understanding of the Site`s landscape and visual characteristics.
2.14 The views also typically represent what can be seen from a variety of distances from the development and different viewing experiences.
2.15 It is important to remember that visual receptors are all people. For each affected viewpoint the assessment considers both susceptibility to change in views and the value attached to views. The visual receptors most susceptible to change are generally likely to include:
residents at home
people engaged in outdoor recreation, including use of public rights of way, whose attention or interest is likely to be focused on the landscape or particular views;
visitors to heritage assets or other attractions, where views of surroundings are an important contributor to the experience;
communities where views contribute to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents in the area.
2.16 Travellers on road, rail or other transport routes tend to fall into an intermediate category of susceptibility to change. Where travel involves recognised scenic routes awareness of views is likely to be particularly high.
2.17 Visual receptors likely to be less sensitive to change include:
People engaged in outdoor sport or recreation which does not involve or depend upon appreciation of views of the landscape;
People at their place of work whose attention may be focused on their work or activity, not on their surroundings.
2.18 Each of the visual effects is evaluated in terms of its size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration or reversibility.
2.19 In terms of size or scale, the magnitude of visual effects takes account of:
The scale of the change in the view with respect to the loss or addition of features in the view and changes in its composition, including proportion of the view occupied by the proposed development;
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The degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape with the existing or remaining landscape elements and characteristics in terms of form, scale and mass, line height, colour and texture;
The nature of the view of the proposed development, in terms of the relative amount of time over which it will be experienced and whether views will be full, partial or glimpses.
2.20 The geographical extent of the visual effect in each viewpoint is likely to reflect:
The angle of view in relation to the main activity of the receptor
The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development
The extent of the area over which the changes would be visible.
2.21 As with landscape effects, the duration of the effect could be short to long term or permanent and the same definitions apply. The criteria used in this appraisal are included at Appendix A.
Overall Landscape and Visual Effects
2.22 The final conclusions on effects, whether adverse or beneficial, are drawn from the separate judgements on the sensitivity of the receptors and the magnitude of the effects. This overall judgement involves a reasoned professional overview of the individual judgements against the criteria, to then make the overall judgement.
2.23 For this appraisal, the following descriptive thresholds have been used with regard to effects:-
Major: An effect that will fundamentally change and be in direct contrast to the existing landscape or views;
Moderate: An effect that will markedly change the existing landscape or views but may retain or incorporate some characteristics/ features currently present;
Minor: An effect that will entail limited or localised change to the existing landscape/ views or will entail more noticeable localised change but including both adverse and beneficial effects and is likely to retain or incorporate some characteristics/ features currently present;
Negligible: An effect that will be discernible yet of very limited change to the existing landscape or views.
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3.0 PLANNING POLICY
National Planning Policy
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF, 2012)
3.1 The NPPF sets out the Government’s economic, environmental and social planning policy and in combination these policies give the Government’s vision of sustainable development. The NPPF emphasises the need for good design, promoting healthy communities and conserving and enhancing the natural environment.
Planning Practice Guidance (PPG, 2014)
3.2 The PPG came into force on the 6th March 2014 and is an online planning resource which provides guidance on the NPPF and the planning system. The NPPF continues to be the primary document for decision making.
Local Planning Policy
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Adopted Local Plan (June 2006)
3.3 The Adopted Local Plan is the council’s key planning document and is used as the basis for all planning decisions taken within the borough. It contains policies against which development proposals can be assessed. This Adopted Local Plan forms part of the Development Plan for the borough.
3.4 The following ‘saved’ policies are of relevance to landscape and visual matters and the proposed development:
Policy E1 Development Control
Proposals for new development will be permitted provided that they are of a high standard of design, make efficient use of land, respect the amenities of neighbouring occupiers, and do not result in inappropriate traffic generation or compromise highway safety. All development proposals should therefore:
i. Respond to the local context of buildings in terms of design, siting, density and spacing, reinforce attractive qualities of local distinctiveness and enhance areas of poor design; extensions should respect their host building ii. Provide a comprehensive landscaping scheme, where appropriate, enabling the development to successfully integrate with the landscape and surrounds, and not result in the loss of or have a potentially adverse impact on protected trees; and vi. Create attractive public spaces, which are safe, minimise opportunities for crime, facilitate public enjoyment, and foster the legibility of the built environment
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Policy E2 Buildings of Historic or Architectural Interest Proposals for development that would affect a listed building, structure or its setting will be determined against the following guidelines: i. The demolition of a listed building or structure will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances. ii. Alterations and extensions that preserve the character and/or setting of a listed building and any features of architectural or historic interest will be permitted iii. Developments within the curtilage of or adjacent to a listed building which do not detrimentally affect their setting will be permitted. Development will not be permitted if it would harm a building or feature of local historic or architectural interest or adversely affect its setting.
Policy E3 Areas of Architectural or Historic Interest Development within Conservation Areas, or on sites outside where development would affect the setting of the Conservation Area, will be permitted provided that the proposals preserve or enhance their special character or appearance. Through determining applications, the Borough Council will: i. Seek to retain buildings, architectural features, trees, spaces and other features which are important to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area; and ii. Allow new development if this would contribute to the area by preserving or enhancing its character and appearance;
Policy E6 Landscape Character Planning permission will only be granted where it is demonstrated that the proposals will be sympathetic to the landscape character and quality of the area concerned. Development proposals should contribute to the regeneration, restoration, repair or conservation of any landscape likely to be affected. In particular they should respect, and improve the following: i. the particular qualities of the relevant Landscape Character Area as defined in the Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment; and ii. visual amenity and scenic quality; and iii. the setting of a settlement, including important views to, across and out of settlements; and iv. the local character of buildings and settlements, including important open areas; and v. trees, hedgerows, water features and other landscape elements and features; and vi. historic landscapes, features and elements Consideration will also be given to the impact that development would have on sense of place, sense of remoteness or tranquillity, and the quiet enjoyment of the landscape from public rights of way.
Policy E7 Nature/Biodiversity Conservation Development or a change of land use will be permitted where it will not have an adverse effect on protected species or the conservation status of priority species, harm the nature conservation interest of a statutory or non-statutory wildlife nature conservation site or lead to the loss or
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deterioration of a key habitat type or harm the integrity of linkages between such sites and habitats.
Policy C9 New Leisure Facilities or Open Spaces Proposals for new leisure facilities or open spaces will be permitted provided that they are in accordance with the current standards adopted by the Borough Council, and: i. Their proposed location is acceptable and their proposed design and construction will be of high quality and conform to accepted standards of good practice; and ii. Any foreseeable adverse impacts on neighbouring land uses, amenity or wildlife can be ameliorated or managed in such a way as to make them acceptable. Details of the leisure and open space standards adopted by the Council can be found within the Interim Planning Guidance entitled ‘Section 106 Planning Obligations and Community Infrastructure’. Provision of on-site, or a contribution to the provision off-site, of any new or enhanced leisure facilities or open spaces required to meet the reasonable needs of the residents of their developments will be sought from housing developers by the Borough Council. Unless a local surplus of open space has been identified in a comprehensive assessment, new open space will be sought on the basis of 2.8ha per 1,000 population.
Basingstoke and Deane Emerging Local Plan 2011 to 2029 (2014)
3.5 The council submitted the Emerging Local Plan to the Planning Inspectorate in October 2014. The following policies are of relevance to landscape and visual matters and the proposed development:
Policy EM1 – Landscape Development will be permitted only where it can be demonstrated, through an appropriate assessment, that the proposals are sympathetic to the character and visual quality of the area concerned. Development proposals must respect, enhance and not be detrimental to the landscape likely to be affected, paying particular regard to: a) The particular qualities identified within the council’s landscape character assessment and any subsequent updates or relevant guidance; b) The visual amenity and scenic quality; c) The setting of a settlement, including important views to, across, within and out of settlements; d) The local character of buildings and settlements, including important open areas; e) Trees, ancient woodland, hedgerows, water features such as rivers and other landscape features; f) Intrinsically dark landscapes; g) Historic landscapes, parks and gardens and features; and h) The character of the borough’s rivers and tributaries, including the River Loddon and Test, which should be safeguarded. Development proposals must also respect the sense of place, sense of tranquillity or remoteness, and the quiet enjoyment of the landscape from public rights of way. Development proposals will not be accepted unless they maintain the integrity of existing settlements and prevent their coalescence.
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Where appropriate, proposals will be required to include a comprehensive landscaping scheme to ensure that the development would successfully integrate with the landscape and surroundings. The assessment of character and visual quality and the provision of a landscaping scheme should be proportionate to the scale and nature of the development proposed.
Policy EM2 – Strategic Gaps
3.6 ‘In order to prevent coalescence of built up areas and to maintain the separate identity of settlements, the generally open and undeveloped nature of the following gaps will be protected:
3.7 Development in gaps will only be permitted where:
a) It would not diminish the physical and/or visual separation; and
b) It would not compromise the integrity of the gap either individually or cumulatively with other existing or proposed development; or
c) it is proposed through a Neighbourhood Plan or Neighbourhood Development Order, including Community Right to Build Orders.
Policy EM5 – Green Infrastructure Development proposals will only be permitted where they do not: a) Prejudice the delivery of the councils Green Infrastructure Strategy (and subsequent updates); b) Result in the fragmentation of the green infrastructure network by severing important corridors/links; or c) Result in undue pressure on the network which cannot be fully mitigated. The council will support proposals which seek to improve links and remedy identified deficiencies in the green infrastructure network in accordance with the council’s Green Infrastructure Strategy. The council will seek to protect and enhance existing public open space. Proposals for the redevelopment of public and private open spaces will not be permitted unless it can be clearly demonstrated that: d) Replacement areas will be at least equivalent in terms of quality, quantity and accessibility, and there will be no overall negative impact on the provision of green infrastructure; or e) A robust assessment clearly demonstrates that the space is surplus to local requirements and will not be needed in the-long term in accordance with the council’s local standards; or f) The proposal is for alternative recreational provision which meets evidence of local need in such a way as to outweigh the loss. Development proposals will be permitted where it can be clearly demonstrated that green infrastructure can be provided and phased to support the requirements of proposed development and be in accordance with the council’s adopted green space standards. Green space and equipped play will normally be provided on-site. Consideration will be given to an off-site financial contribution towards the enhancement of existing facilities, in addition to, or instead of, provision of new green space on site but only where: g) The quantity standard for the number of proposed dwellings does not result in a requirement for green space which meets the minimum size standard for a particular type; or h) It can be demonstrated that the needs of new residents can be met in this way without adversely impacting on the needs of existing residents.
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Policy EM10 - Delivering High Quality Development All development proposals will be of high quality, based upon a robust design-led approach. 1. Development proposals (excluding household extensions) will be permitted where they: a) Contribute to the provision of neighbourhoods and places for work and leisure that are well connected, accessible, safe, easy for people to find their way around and, function well in practical terms b) Are accessible to all and promote buildings that are durable, adaptable and able to respond to changing social, environmental, technological and economic conditions; c) Positively contribute to the appearance and use of streets and other public spaces; d) Promote the efficient use of land and achieve appropriate housing densities which respond to the local context, as informed by community documents25, and which take into account the urban, suburban or rural location of the site; e) Provide a co-ordinated and comprehensive scheme that does not prejudice the future development or design of adjoining sites; and f) Minimise energy consumption through sustainable approaches to design. 2. All development proposals will be required to respect the local environment and amenities of neighbouring properties in accordance with the principles set out below. Development proposals will be permitted where they: a) Positively contribute to local distinctiveness, the sense of place and the existing street scene, taking into account all relevant SPDs and community documents that identify the local character and distinctiveness of an area which is valued by local communities, whilst allowing for innovation where appropriate; b) Provide a high quality of amenity for occupants of developments and neighbouring properties, having regard to such issues as overlooking, access to natural light, outlook and amenity space, in accordance with the Design and Sustainability SPD; c) Have due regard to the density, scale, layout, appearance, architectural detailing, materials and history of the surrounding area, and the relationship to neighbouring buildings, landscape features and heritage assets; d) Are visually attractive as a result of good architecture; e) Provide appropriate parking provision (including bicycle storage), in terms of amount, design, layout and location, in accordance with the adopted parking standards; and f) Provide appropriate internal and external waste and recycling storage areas and accessible collection points for refuse vehicles, in accordance with the Design and Sustainability SPD, in order to promote effective recycling and disposal of household and commercial waste.
Policy EM11 – The Historic Environment All development must conserve or enhance the quality of the Borough’s heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance. Development proposals which would affect designated or undesignated heritage assets will be permitted where they: a) Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the significance of the heritage asset and its setting, how this has informed the proposed development, and how the proposal would impact on the
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asset’s significance. This will be proportionate to the importance of the heritage asset and the potential impact of the proposal; b) Ensure that extensions and/or alterations respect the historic form, setting, fabric and any other aspects that contribute to the significance of the host building; c) Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the significance, character and setting of conservation areas and how this has informed proposals, to achieve high quality new design which is respectful of historic interest and local character; d) Conserve or enhance the quality, distinctiveness and character of historic assets by ensuring the use of appropriate materials design and detailing; and e) Retain the significance and character of historic buildings when considering alternative uses and make sensitive use of redundant historic assets.
Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs)
3.8 The Borough Council has prepared a number of Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) to provide additional guidance to the Saved Policies of the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Local Plan, 1996-2011. This includes the following:
Design and Sustainability
Landscape and Biodiversity
Green Infrastructure Strategy Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (July 2013)
3.9 The Vision underpinning this strategy is to provide a planned and managed network of GI across Basingstoke and Deane which:
provides residents with adequate local access to a network of high quality parks, open spaces, green links and corridors; protects the health and attractiveness of our natural environment, enhancing those areas which can make a positive contribution to biodiversity; and allows the natural environment to thrive alongside the built environment.
In order to achieve this, the strategy aims to:-
manage, protect and restore existing green infrastructure; and expand and reconnect green infrastructure where there is an identified deficit or where housing growth is planned and additional provision is needed.
3.10 In addition the GI Strategy identifies local scale linear habitat features:
Linear habitat features include individual tree belts, hedgerows, rows of street trees, streams, local footpaths, bridleways and cycleways. These local scale features provide habitat for a range of species and access and recreation opportunities for people. The enhancement of linear habitat features in terms of habitat quality, connectivity and where appropriate accessibility, can be delivered through individual green space management plans, whole farm management plans, street scene planting schemes, and development and regeneration schemes.
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3.11 The GI Strategy also identifies wildlife opportunity corridors.
The identification of wildlife corridors in and around the edge of settlements will help to rectify the effects of development on wildlife and help to link urban populations of animals with those in the wider countryside.
The corridors will include existing wildlife opportunity corridors which are already providing an important function in terms of wildlife movement, as well as new corridor areas where environmental enhancement would lead to significant improvements for key species and habitats.
3.12 The following key principle relates to the delivery of GI:
P7 - To ensure that improvements to green infrastructure are considered at an early stage of the development process and when allocating existing and future funding streams.
The main contributions will be through the creation and improvement of open spaces, habitats, landscape features and other GI assets within and around development sites, and by protecting areas of GI importance from development.
3.13 Specific to Tadley the GI strategy identifies that:
‘There are no parks in Tadley. Access to accessible natural green space within the distance threshold is good in Pamber Heath and Baughurst as well as the east of Tadley, as a result of large green spaces such as Pamber Forest, Tadley and Silchester Commons and Wigmore Heath; however dwellings in the west and south of Tadley are not within the distance threshold. Access to amenity green space within the distance threshold is reasonable although dwellings in the north of Pamber Heath, the eastern and western edges of Tadley and the north of Baughurst are not within the distance threshold.’
Tadley Design Statement (2004)
3.14 The Tadley Design Statement was adopted by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council as supplementary planning guidance on 15th April 2004. It complements the Local Plan, and is a material consideration when decisions are made on planning applications. The Design Statement describes the character of Tadley and gives guidance for the design of buildings and landscape. The Design Statement identifies a number of viewpoints within the area, none of which will be affected by the proposals. The Design Statement also divides Tadley and the surrounding area into different character areas, these are discussed within the ‘Landscape Character’ section later in this report.
Baughurst and Wolverton Design Statement (2004)
3.15 The Baughurst and Wolverton Design Statement describes the character of the neighbouring settlements of Baughurst and Wolverton and provides design guidance for the area. The Statement identifies a number of ‘important views’, those relevant to the proposals have been assessed within this report.
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4.0 BASELINE CONDITIONS
Landscape Character
National Character
4.1 National Character Area (NCA) profiles have prepared by Natural England for the 159 NCA`s defined across England. These NCA profiles include a description of the natural and cultural features that shape the landscape, how the landscape has changed over time, the current key drivers for ongoing change, and a broad analysis of each area’s characteristics. Figure 3 illustrates the NCA`s and other defined character areas within the context of the Site.
4.2 At this very broad landscape scale, the Site, lies within Natural England's National Character Area (NCA) 129 ‘Thames Basin Heaths’. Extracts from the profile of this NCA are included at Appendix B. This NCA stretches Weybridge in Surrey to the countryside around Newbury in Berkshire and therefore covers a very extensive landscape tract. Under Key Characteristics the NCA description includes the following references;
Arable land and improved pasture are found in the valleys, on alluvium.
Beyond the large areas of heathland and woodland, there is a patchwork of small to medium- sized fields with woods. The legacy of historic hunting forests includes veteran trees, ancient woods, ancient hedgerows and parklands. Historic meadows remain as fragments along watercourses.
Prehistoric earthworks such as barrows and hill forts mark promontories on the plateaux.
Mosaics of open heathland and grassland with scrub, secondary woodland and plantation. Valley bogs, ponds and streams enhance diversity.
Historic commons offer tranquillity and unenclosed views, while other rights of access are enjoyed across farmland, canals and downland. Ministry of Defence ownership restricts (but does not entirely prevent) public enjoyment.
Valley floors are wet with ditches, numerous watercourses, ponds, waterfilled gravel pits, reedbeds and carr. Historic features include mills, relict water meadows, and canals such as the River Wey Navigations.
20th-century conurbations, including Camberley, sprawl along the Blackwater Valley, with associated roads (including the M3) dissecting heathland and woodland into blocks. Elsewhere, there are winding lanes and historic dispersed villages and farmsteads of traditional, locally-made brick and tile.
Hampshire County Integrated Character Assessment (May 2012)
4.3 The Hampshire County Integrated Character Assessment has been undertaken at a County level. It subdivides the landscape of the County into 62 Character Areas. The Site lies within the ‘Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath’ Character Area. The Key Characteristics of this character area are described as;
Gently undulating plateau landscape with areas of more pronounced undulations associated with water courses.
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Mixture of soils ranging from sandy poor soils in the north to less well drained soils in the south.
Rich biodiversity due to the mosaic of woodland, heathland, wetland and grassland habitats. • Extensive areas of coniferous heath plantation and assart woodland giving an enclosed wooded character.
Remnant areas of dry heathland e.g. Silchester Common.
Medium scaled assart enclosures supporting predominantly pastoral landuse with some areas of arable.
Limited views out of this landscape as result of plateau character and extent of woodland cover, especially conifer plantations.
Principle periods of exploitation appear to be Bronze and Iron Age, Roman and mid to late 20th century – with little in between.
Important area for Roman archaeology associated with the Roman town of Silchester.
Quiet, rural character.
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Landscape Assessment (June 2001)
4.4 The Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Landscape Character Assessment has been undertaken at a Borough level. It subdivides the landscape into 20 Character Areas. The Site lies within the ‘North Sherborne’ Character Area. The key characteristics of this character area are described as;
gently undulating, subtle landform dissected by a network of minor tributary valleys;
pattern of predominantly arable farmland and improved grassland with occasional well- managed parkland, enclosed within an established woodland and hedgerow structure with many hedgerow trees;
south-west corner lies within North Wessex Downs AONB, and overall landscape typically has a rural character, except near Tadley and Mortimer to the north and Basingstoke/Chineham to the southeast. Generally quiet, apart from areas along the busy A340;
predominantly assarted and small parliamentary fields, giving way to large wavy, small wavy and parliamentary fields to the east;
two pockets of more open arable farmland towards the south-east, characterised by parliamentary fields with infrequent woodland cover and low, well-cut hedgerows, notably between The Vyne and North Chineham and to the north-west of Bramley;
variety of woodland, including small predominantly broadleaf copses and larger woodland such as Morgaston Wood and Carpenters Down Wood. Also Pamber Forest, which has placed a crucial role in the historical development of the area;
remnant areas of scarce habitat types including ancient semi-natural woodland, heathland (notably part of the Pamber Forest and Silchester Common SSSI), and neutral/acidic unimproved grassland. The latter includes Ron Wards Meadow with Tadley Pastures SSSI, one of Hampshire’s finest surviving hay meadow/pasture complexes;
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three distinctive areas of parkland, 'The Vyne' (Grade II), Beaurepaire Park and Ewhurst Park, contributing a well-managed element to the landscape;
moderate intervisibility across the area, with vegetation and low-lying nature of the landscape containing distant views;
apart from the larger settlement of Tadley, a settlement pattern dominated by small villages, hamlets, isolated farmsteads and individual properties distributed throughout the rural landscape, reached through a network of narrow, winding roads;
remarkably preserved Roman town of Calleva Atrebatum (Silchester) and its associated earthworks, together with many other Scheduled Ancient Monuments, reinforcing the historic richness of the landscape.
4.5 The study also includes an assessment of the settlements within the Borough. The areas immediately to the north, east and west of the Site fall within the ‘Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath’ settlement area. The key characteristics of this area are described as;
comprises three settlements;
small settlements located along winding lanes interspersed with patches of common;
set within a mixed farmland and woodland landscape with heathland common;
lack of central core;
use of traditional materials - predominantly brick and plain clay tile;
mostly modern residential development;
linear character with cul-de-sac development;
some heath and woodland remains within the built-up areas;
footpath links between housing areas and open spaces/woodland.
4.6 The southern edge of the Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath settlement area lies adjacent to the Site, this edge is described within the assessment as:
4.7 ‘To the south, landform typically slopes down to narrow, relatively enclosed stream valleys, before rising again to the undulating landscape. Fields range from large to small scale, predominantly pasture with a relatively strong hedgerow structure, and numerous small, irregular shaped woodland copses, creating an intimate and relatively contained setting with low intervisibility. A golf course forms part of the southern setting, enclosing part of the urban edge with dense bands of tree planting.
4.8 The southern edge of Tadley and Baughurst is relatively fragmented. To the south-west, large blocks of woodland, and small-scale fields with high hedgerows, create a soft well integrated edge. To the south-east, the edge is slightly harsher, although hedgerow planting does help to integrate it into the rural landscape. Views from the south-east of Tadley, where vegetation is limited, extend as far as Basingstoke to the south, and ridgelines near Hannington to the south- west.
4.9 There are five significant entrances into Tadley from the south. All of these provide a relatively gradual transition into the town, with previews of the town, outlying buildings, urban influences, and a gentle merging of landscape features with urban form.’
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Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study (February 2008)
4.10 The Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study was produced in order to help inform decisions about the future extent and direction of development within the Borough of Basingstoke. Relevant extracts are provided below:
It should be noted that the overall assessment given to any area does not mean that the assessment applies to the whole area – it may apply to one part of it. Further detailed assessment of the areas will be required as part of the next stage of the development of the Local Development Framework.
The Landscape Capacity is a combination of the sensitivity of the landscape character (both physical/aesthetic and visual) and the value attached to the landscape It should be noted that this assessment provides a guide as to the capacity of each of the character areas. The precise location and extent of development would depend on a closer study and evaluation of each character area.
4.11 The study identifies and assesses eleven ‘Local Character Areas’ surrounding Tadley. The Site falls within Local Character Area TA04 – Bishopswood Golf Course Slopes (see Appendix C). The summary of overall landscape capacity for Local Character Area TA04 is described as follows:
Summary of Overall Landscape Capacity
This is a modified landscape which has only localised impacts on the adjacent area. There is the potential for mitigation within this area which would have limited impact on the character. There is the potential for development here although its layout would need to take into account the more elevated parts of the area and would be limited to the southern part of the area. The northern end of the area provides physical separation between Baughurst and Tadley and therefore it would be essential to retain this buffer.
Landscape Sensitivity
Summary of Characteristics
This area slopes noticeably from north to south towards Church Brook beyond the site.
Vegetation comprises a variety of deciduous and coniferous species planted to define fairways. Tall hedgerows and trees define the boundary of the golf course and driving range.
A golf course and practice range along with associated clubhouse and buildings occupy much of the area. There is a small area of arable farmland and some small paddocks in the north-west corner. Footpaths cross the south-western corner of the golf course and the north-western corner.
There are few features within this area that are typical of the wider character area and any remnants of the original landscape are non-existent. The golf course is in a good state of repair, however the paddocks are less well managed.
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The nature of golf courses and the vegetation around the small paddocks mean that this is a generally enclosed landscape. The paddocks are locally distinctive and contribute to the overall character of the area.
The elevated nature of the landform means that in some locations it has a prominent skyline.
Visual Sensitivity
Summary of Characteristics
The nature of the planting within and surrounding the golf course and practice range limits intervisibility and views are naturally trained along fairways. Intervisibility is also limited within the paddocks.
Within the area of farmland, views are longer-distance and this area provides some of the visual setting to Tadley and provides visual separation with Baughurst.
Most views are limited to those playing golf along with some of the residential dwellings facing onto the course.
The wooded nature of the course and the paddocks mean that there is potential to reinforce the vegetation pattern, although this could be less effective on the higher ground.
Landscape Value
Summary of Characteristics
The only designation in the area is a listed building along the northern boundary.
The nature of the character area along with the proximity of Bishopswood Road and the settlement edge, limit any sense of tranquillity. The golf course is a manicured landscape and as such does provide some scenic beauty.
The vegetation within the golf course limits any contribution that this site makes to the settlement edge, except for a short length on the higher northern edge of the course and within the area of farmland which are more open. The narrow part of the character area in the north-west corner provides an important buffer between Baughurst and Tadley and would need to be retained to prevent coalescence of the two settlements.
4.12 As recommended above this LVA provides a more detailed level of evaluation of the landscape character and visual setting to Tadley than that undertaken for the BDBC Landscape Capacity Study.
A report for Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Capacity Study 2010: Site Options (November 2010)
4.13 A detailed Landscape Capacity Study of the borough was carried out in 2010 to examine sites immediately surrounding Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley as well as Overton and Whitchurch. The assessment forms part of the Local Plan evidence base and has been used to help determine the most suitable location for future development in the borough. The assessment states:
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4.14 This report has been produced to inform the evidence base for the Basingstoke and Deane Local Development Framework by assessing the relative capacity of the landscape to accommodate development at specific sites in Basingstoke and its surrounding villages. It follows a broader capacity study carried out by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in 2008 which examined the possible impacts of development upon areas immediately surrounding Basingstoke, Bramley and Tadley, without assessing specific sites. These were identified for possible development by the council’s Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (2008).
4.15 The assessment generally follows the same approach taken in the 2008 capacity study; however each site is considered in more detail and assigned a capacity scoring from low to high. The Site falls within the site identified as ‘TAD018’ within the assessment (See Appendix C). TAD018 is described as;
4.16 ‘TAD018 is an area on the southern edge of Tadley and north of Baughurst consisting of several pasture fields with Bishopswood Stream forming much of the western boundary, with its associated linear belt of trees. The area is bounded to the northern and southern boundaries by gappy hedgerows, with a residential property to the north-west and a public footpath with a double row of mature trees creating part of the western boundary south of the house and garden. A stronger belt of mature trees forms the eastern boundary, along Bishopswood Lane towards the golf driving range which abuts the area to the south.’
4.17 The key landscape planning factors for TAD018 are described as;
4.18 ‘At present Bishopswood Lane and Bishopswood golf course create a strong edge to Tadley. Where Tadley merges into the north of Baughurst, the separation between settlements is unclear and the eastern edge of Baughurst (east of Baughurst Road) is less strong. The area is part of the wider Bishopswood Golf Course Slopes character area (TA04), with largely flat landform, small field patterns, gappy boundary hedges and trees along Bishopswood Stream. It is an intimate landscape with a good sense of enclosure with tranquillity interrupted by busy Bishopswood Lane. The area has some intervisibility with TAD027. The site is not designated for its landscape value but has been identified as important buffer between the two settlements. Development would reduce the separation between Tadley and Baughurst.’
4.19 TAD018 is identified as having Medium/Low Visual Sensitivity and is described as;
‘Visually enclosed, Glimpsed views southwards; Long views south west to high ground; Limited receptors; Some scope for mitigation without damage to character.’
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4.20 The wider Landscape Sensitivity of Area B is described as Medium/High resulting from the following factors:
‘Adjacent to busy road; Some views of neighbouring / nearby houses; Visual links with wider landscape to south. Part of the open landscape between Tadley and Baughurst.’
4.21 The overall Landscape Sensitivity is described as medium. The study also provides a judgement as to the value of the landscape, TAD018 is described as having Medium / Low Landscape Value in reaching this judgement the study notes that there are no designations for landscape value applied to the site, but that it is locally valued. The study concludes that the Landscape Capacity of TAD018 is judged to be Medium/High and makes the following recommendations and comments;
4.22 ‘Landscape capacity is higher than the LCS 2008 assessment as the area forms only a part of the wider landscape character area, not including the golf course, and relates more to the edge of Tadley. The form of any development would need to be carefully considered to respect the existing landscape features, which would need to be retained and could be enhanced as linear habitats. An opportunity should be sought through the design and layout to retain a long view to the high ground to the south west. Development on the site should be in keeping with the character of Tadley to reinforce the separate identity of the two settlements.’
Tadley Design Statement (2004)
4.23 The Tadley Design Statement divides Tadley and the surrounding area into different character areas. The Site falls within the ‘Rural Area’, this area is described as;
‘predominantly undulating farmland; a patchwork of small and medium-sized fields interspersed with copses, larger woods and managed plantations.’
4.24 The area to the north and east of the Site fall within the ‘Housing Area’ as described in the Statement. The ‘Housing Area’ is further sub-divided into different character areas, the area to the north of the Site falls within the ‘North West Tadley’ character area, which is described as;
‘The majority of the area is made up of housing estates built during the period 1953-1956 for the then UKAEA (AWRE and later AWE) work force. It was designed as a self-contained residential area, with shops and amenities.’
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Landscape Designations
4.25 Figure 4 illustrates the location of the landscape designations. No designations apply to the Site or its context with regard to landscape value. The Site is located within an area identified as a ‘Strategic Gap’ within the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Emerging Local Plan 2011 to 2029. The Strategic Gap has not been designated for its landscape value, but to act as a buffer between the settlements of Tadley and Baughurst. The Strategic Gap designation is part of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Emerging Local Plan and as such is yet to be formally adopted.
4.26 The nearest listed building to the Site is Grade II listed ‘St. John’s’ located to the north of the Site, approximately 45m from the Site boundary at the closest point. The building is set within a mature landscape of established trees. Visual effects on this property are represented in viewpoints 3 and 7.
4.27 The Tadley Church Road Conservation Area is located approximately 670m to the south east of the Site at its nearest boundary and is separated from the Site by established tree groups and woodland blocks.
4.28 Three scheduled monuments are located to the north west of the Site. The nearest of these ‘Round barrow cemetery at Brimpton Common’ is located approximately 730m north west of the Site. Extensive existing development and existing vegetation separates the scheduled monuments from the site.
4.29 The North Wessex Downs Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is located approximately 2.6km to the south west of the Site at its nearest boundary. The AONB is separated from the site by existing built form and established vegetation including tree groups and woodland blocks.
Topography
4.30 The following should be read in conjunction with Figure 2.
Site – Landform
4.31 The contours within the Site generally slope down from the north to the south. A high point of approximately 105m AOD is located in the north east of the Site adjacent to Bishopswood Lane and a low point of approximately 93m AOD in the south eastern corner adjacent to the driving range at Bishopswood Lane Golf Course. The landform within the Site also drops away along the route of Bishop’s Wood Stream.
Context - Landform
4.32 In the wider context the landform rises towards Brimpton Common to the north east of the Site and Browning Hill to the south of the Site, which provides a localised high point within the landscape. The landforms falls to the west of the Site creating a valley around a tributary of the River Enborne.
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Site and Immediate Context
4.33 An assessment of the landscape character of the Site and its immediate context has been carried out, providing a finer level of assessment than the published studies.
4.34 The Site is situated at the south western edge of the town of Tadley and comprises 9 fields, all currently in agricultural use. Mature trees as well as number of ditches separate the fields. Bishop’s Wood Stream runs through the Site and forms much of the Site’s southern boundary, the stream is well vegetated with mature trees. There are two ponds located in the centre of the site, incorporated into a vegetated field boundary. Mature vegetation within the Site including along Bishop’s Wood Steam acts to limit inter-visibility between the fields within the Site as well as between the Site and the wider surrounding area. A woodland block is located in the centre of the Site and contributes to the mature landscape framework of the Site.
4.35 The Site boundaries are well contained by existing features:
Bishopswood Lane forms the northern Site boundary. A number of mature trees and tree groups are located along the Lane. Five properties, including the grade II listed ‘St.John’s’ are located off Bishopswood Lane and abut the Site’s boundary, the properties are set within a mature landscape setting. A belt of mature trees runs adjacent to the north of Bishopswood Lane beyond which lies extensive residential development within north western Tadley.
A Public Right of Way (PROW) runs adjacent to the western boundary of the Site and connects Bishopswood Lane to Baughurst Road. The majority of the footpath’s route along the Site’s boundary is heavily vegetated with a double row of mature trees. Beyond the PROW to the west of the site is located a modern residential development off Blackthorn Close and the Hawthorns and existing properties off Baughurst Road.
The driving range of Bishopswood Golf Course adjoins the Site’s south eastern boundary. The golf course’s perimeter fence forms the Site boundary, a line of chestnut trees runs adjacent to the fence.
Bishop’s Wood Stream forms much of the Site’s southern boundary, dense mature trees run along its route. The boundary of the south western most field within the Site is formed by a tree group.
Landscape Value
4.36 In terms of "landscape value" it is appropriate to examine the role of the Site and its immediate context in terms of the range of local factors set out in the GLVIA3 (Box 5.1, page 84), and summarised in the methodology. This considers the landscape in terms of a range of factors as set out below. As a starting point, landscape designations have been considered.
4.37 Landscape Designations: The Site and the immediate landscape are not subject to any national, local or other landscape designations. The Site is located within an area identified as a ‘Strategic Gap’ within the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Emerging Local Plan 2011 to 2029, but this designation does not relate to landscape value.
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4.38 Landscape Quality (Condition):
The Site is in agricultural use and is considered to be relatively intact with established tree groups along field boundaries within the Site and along the Site boundaries. The site also contains a number of landscape features including Bishop’s Wood Stream and a woodland block located in the centre of the Site. The proposals provide an opportunity to maintain and enhance the Site’s mature landscape framework.
4.39 Scenic Quality: Though parts of the Site have a scenic quality, the character of the Site itself is also influenced by the existing settlement edge. This results from inter-visibility with nearby properties (though these are limited by existing vegetation), views of the Driving Range at Bishopswood Lane Golf Course and the proximity of Bishopswood Lane, a busy road, to the Site.
4.40 Rarity and Representativeness: The Site contains a number of landscape features though none are particularly rare or unusual. Most notably the Site contains a number of mature tree groups, a woodland block and a stream, these are all relatively common features of the local landscape.
4.41 Conservation Interest: The habitat on Site comprises of agricultural fields, ditches, ponds, a stream, grassland and mature trees. The woodland block within the Site and the three north western fields of the Site are designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
4.42 To the north of the Site is the Grade II listed building ‘St. John’s’, however there is restricted inter- visibility between the Site and the listed property due to surrounding mature trees.
4.43 Recreational Value: There is no public access into or through the Site and it is not used for any formal or informal recreational uses. A single PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ runs adjacent to the western Site boundary, linking Bishopswood Lane to Baughurst Road.
4.44 Perceptual Aspects and Associations: There are no significant associations linked to the Site.
4.45 In conclusion and having appraised the above factors it is judged that the Site and the immediate landscape is of medium/low landscape value.
Visual Baseline
4.46 A visual appraisal has been undertaken for the Site. This has explored the nature of the existing visual amenity of the area and sought to establish the approximate visibility of the Site from surrounding locations and receptors. A series of photo viewpoints have been selected which support this analysis.
4.47 Photographs have been taken to illustrate a view from a specific vantage point, or to demonstrate a representative view for those receptors that are moving through the landscape, e.g. rights of way users. The photographs may demonstrate varying degrees of visibility and include both short and long range views. The photographs were taken on the 19th November 2014 and seasonal differences have been taken into account when determining the visual effects on these receptors.
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Photo Viewpoints
4.48 An assessment of the likely visual effects of the proposed development upon surrounding receptors is detailed in the subsequent section. Figure 6 details the location of the Photo Viewpoints and Figure 7-17 illustrates the photo viewpoints. They are briefly described below.
Viewpoint 1
4.49 This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users and residences along Bishopswood Lane. The view looks east along Bishopswood Lane, mature trees lining the road and existing properties to the south of the road channel views along the lane and restrict longer distance views. A number of mature trees along the Site’s western boundary can be seen beyond existing properties within the view, including St. Ann’s cottage situated adjacent to the Site’s western boundary. Views of the Site are prevented by the existing built form.
Viewpoint 2
4.50 This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users and residences of Sheridan Crescent to the north of the Site. The view is also representative of a view identified as an important view in the Baughurst and Wolverton Village Design Statement. The view looks south towards the Site, vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary can be seen adjacent to Bishopswood Lane beyond which the two north western fields of the Site are visible. Mature vegetation along the Site’s western boundary and boundary with properties south of Bishopswood Lane is also visible as is vegetation along one of the Site’s internal field boundaries. The existing mature vegetation restricts longer distance views. To the far right of the view a property adjacent to the Site’s western boundary can be seen as well as the upper storeys and rooftops of two properties off ‘The Hawthorns’, partially screened by the vegetation along the Site’s western boundary.
Viewpoint 3
4.51 This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users of Bishopswood Lane and residences off Bishopswood Lane adjacent to the Site’s northern boundary. The view looks south towards existing residential properties including the Grade II listed building ‘St. John’s’, which is visible beyond outbuildings seen in the foreground. Roadside vegetation including hedgerows and mature trees can be seen along Bishopswood Lane. Mature trees along the Site’s boundaries with the existing properties and within the ground of existing properties are also visible. Views of the Site itself are prevented by a combination of the existing built form and vegetation.
Viewpoint 4
4.52 This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users of Bishopswood Lane. The view looks south towards the northern boundary of the Site. Roadside vegetation along Bishopswood Lane is visible and includes mature trees to the far right and far left of the view, in the centre of the view the roadside vegetation is less mature and more scattered. Mature vegetation within the Site is visible including along field boundaries and within the woodland block within the Site, this vegetation acts to limit longer range views from this viewpoint. There is a close range view of the Site from this viewpoint, partially filtered by vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary.
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Viewpoint 5
4.53 This viewpoint is taken from Inhurst Way and represents vehicular/pedestrian users of Inhurst Way and residences off Inhurst Way. The view looks south east towards the Site’s northern boundary. A property off Inhurst way is visible in the right of the view and mature trees to the north of Bishopswood Lane can be seen in the right and left of the view, a gap in this vegetation allows for a partial view of the Site. Scrubby vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary is visible beyond which mature vegetation along field boundaries within the Site can be seen, this vegetation restricts longer distance views.
Viewpoint 6
4.54 This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users of Whitedown Road, north of the Site and residences off Whitedown Road. The view looks south towards Bishopswood Lane. Mature trees which form a belt of tree planting along the eastern edge of Bishopswood Lane dominate the view and limit views further south. Properties off Whitedown Road are visible to the far right and left of the view, these properties are generally not orientated towards the Site. Existing vegetation prevent views of the Site.
Viewpoint 7
4.55 This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users of Bishopswood Lane and is taken from close to the south eastern corner of the Site and looks northwest towards the Site. Mature trees flanking both sides of Bishopswood Lane are prominent in the view. The perimeter fencing of the Driving range of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course adjacent to the Site’s south eastern boundary is visible beyond mature roadside trees. Where a gap in the vegetation allows there are views to field boundary vegetation within the Site and to vegetation along the Site’s western boundary beyond. There are partial views of the Site where gaps in the existing vegetation allows.
Viewpoint 8
4.56 This viewpoint is taken from within the Site and looks north towards the Site’s boundary with existing properties off Bishopswood Lane. The viewpoint demonstrates the screening provided by the mature vegetation along the Site’s boundary, which prevents views to the existing properties located beyond.
Viewpoint 9
4.57 This viewpoint is taken from within the north eastern portion of the Site and looks south west towards the Site’s western boundary and PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ situated adjacent to the boundary. Mature trees can be seen lining the Site’s western boundary, a gap in the vegetation allows for partial views of properties off Blackthorn Close. This viewpoint demonstrates the screening effect provided by vegetation along the site’s western boundary.
Viewpoint 10
4.58 This viewpoint represents views from residential properties of Blackthorn Close to the west of the Site. The view looks east towards existing properties on the Close. Mature trees which line PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ situated adjacent to the Site’s western boundary are visible beyond the existing properties. Views of the Site are prevented by the existing built form.
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Viewpoint 11
4.59 Viewpoint 11 represents the pedestrian users of PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ which runs adjacent to the Site’s western boundary. The view looks east across the north east of the Site. Established vegetation which runs along the Site’s boundary with the public Right of Way heavily filters views of the Site. Mature trees along Bishop’s Wood Stream within the Site can be seen, these prevent views further into the Site.
Viewpoint 12
4.60 This viewpoint represents users of PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ and is taken from approximately 190m to the south of the Site. The view looks north towards the Site’s southern boundary. Mature vegetation which runs along the PROW can be seen in the far right of the view. Vegetation along the Site’s southern boundary restricts views of the Site. There is a glimpsed view of the north eastern part of the Site in the right of the view where a gap in the vegetation and slightly raised landform within the Site allows. Overhead power lines which cross the Site can also be seen in the view.
Viewpoint 13
4.61 Viewpoint 13 represents vehicular/pedestrian users of Baughurst Road and residences off Baughurst road. The view is taken from near where PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ adjoins the Baughurst Road. The view looks north east towards the Site, existing properties off Baughurst Road and mature trees along Bishop’s Wood Stream can be seen, these prevent views of the Site from this viewpoint.
Viewpoint 14
4.62 This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users and residences adjacent to Baughurst Road approximately 370m to the south west of the Site. The view looks north towards the Site, a gap in the roadside hedgerow allows a view of vegetation to the west of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course. Views of the Site are prevented by the roadside hedgerow.
Viewpoint 15
4.63 Viewpoint 15 is taken from PROW ‘Tadley 8’ approximately 350m south of the Site. The view looks north across agricultural land towards the Site. There are glimpsed views of the north eastern fields within the Site where a gap in the intervening and boundary vegetation allows. Mature vegetation along a field boundary within the Site prevents views beyond. To the left of the view a property off Baughurst Road is partially visible and agricultural outbuildings can be seen in a field to the south of the Site. To the right of the view there is a glimpsed view of properties off Bishopswood Lane located to the south east of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course.
Viewpoint 16
4.64 This viewpoint represents users of Bishopswood Lane and users of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course. The view is taken from Bishopswood Lane adjacent to Bishopswood Lane Golf Course Club House, which can be seen in the right of the view. To the left of the view the driving range at Bishopswood Golf Course can be seen. The dense mature vegetation along Bishopswood lane prevents views of the Site from this viewpoint.
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Viewpoint 17
4.65 Viewpoint 17 represents users of PROW ‘Tadley 9’ and users of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course. The viewpoint is taken from where the PROW transect the Golf Course and looks north west towards the Site. Mature vegetation along the boundary between the Golf Course and Bishopswood Lane dominates the view, there is a glimpse view through the trees to the Golf Course Club House in the right of the view. Views of the Site are prevented by existing vegetation.
Viewpoint 18
4.66 This viewpoint represents users of PROW ‘Tadley 10’ and is taken approximately 700m south east of the Site. The surrounding landscape is well vegetated with mature trees. There is a glimpsed views of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course to the right of the view seen beyond mature trees lining new road. In the centre of the view a gap in the vegetation allows for a glimpsed, distant view of properties off Baughurst Road. Looking in the direction of the Site existing mature trees obscure any potential views of the Site.
Viewpoint 19
4.67 Viewpoint 19 represents users of the PROW ‘Baughurst 11’. It is taken from adjacent to Curtis Farm where the PROW runs along Chapel Lane. The view looks north east towards the Site. A building at Curtis Farm can been seen in the left of the view. Hedgerows which run along both sides of Chapel Lane can be seen, above which there is a view of the rooftops of properties off Baughurst Road and the tops of mature trees along Baughurst Road and the Site’s western boundary. A gateway allows for a view of Great Copse and glimpses of properties further north along Baughurst Road. Views of the Site are prevented by intervening vegetation.
Viewpoint 20
4.68 This view represents users of PROW ‘Baughurst 11’ and is taken approximately 860m to the south west of the Site close to where the PROW joins Violet Lane. It is taken from a location close to a view identified as important in the Baughurst and Wolverton Design Statement. The view looks east across agricultural land towards the Site. A field boundary hedgerow which runs adjacent to the PROW can be seen in the centre of the view. To the left of the view a hedgerow which runs along Violet Lane and Wolverton can be seen above which the rooftops of a number of buildings at Inhurst Farm off Wolverton Road are visible. In the distance there are partial views of properties along Wolverton Road where intervening vegetation allows. Curtis Farm off Baughurst road and a rooftop of a property off Baughurst Road are also visible in the distance, though the way the landform rises towards Baughurst Road obscures much of the existing built form. A combination of the local topography and existing vegetation including dense tree planting at Great Copse prevents views of the Site.
Viewpoint 21
4.69 Viewpoint 21 represents users of PROW ‘Baughurst 7’. The view is taken approximately 960m to the west of the site. The view looks east towards the Site, a property off Wolverton road can be seen in the centre right of the view partially screened by intervening vegetation. To the left of the
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view part of a woodland block which wraps around Haughurst Hill can be seen. Views to the Site are prevented by intervening vegetation.
Viewpoint 22
4.70 This viewpoint represents users of Public Footpath ‘Baughurst 21’ and is taken from an elevated position on Browning Hill approximately 1.5km south of the site. The viewpoint also represents a view from Browning Hill identified as an important view in the Baughurst and Wolverton Design Statement. The view looks north across agricultural land towards the Site. The elevated position allows for distant views of rising land north of Tadley, though the settlement itself is obscured by a combination of landform and existing vegetation. Long distance views towards the Site are prevented by a combination of the local topography and intervening vegetation.
Summary of Visual Baseline
4.71 The baseline analysis results in a number of reasoned conclusions which are summarised below.
4.72 The interaction of topography and vegetation results in a restricted visual ‘envelope’ or visible extent of the Site. The photographic viewpoints demonstrate how the Site area is partly visible to the south but with few views from the north, east and west limited to the relatively immediate surrounds due to existing development and extensive mature vegetation.
4.73 Within the wider context views from the south are also limited as a result of intervening vegetation and topography even from elevated positions on Browning Hill and towards Inhurst.
4.74 Potential visual receptors to be assessed have been identified through both field work and desk study and are summarised below;
Properties and residents on Bishopswood Lane (to the north west of the Site)
Properties and residents on Bishopswood Lane (to the north of the Site)
Properties on Baughurst Road (to the west of the Site)
Properties at the Hawthorns (to the west of the Site)
Properties on Blackthorn Close (to the west of the Site)
Properties on Inhurst Way (to the north of the Site)
Properties on Huntsmoor Road (to the north of the Site)
PROW users west of the Site (PROW – Baughurst 49)
PROW users south of Site (PROW – Tadley 8)
Users of Bishopswood Lane (north of the Site)
Users of Baughurst Road (west of the Site)
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5.0 LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS
Introduction
5.1 The development proposals are fully described in the Design and Access Statement and other information accompanying the planning application. The existing landscape resource and the visual receptors and amenity of the Site have been considered by the planning and design process and have informed the resultant scheme. This approach has entailed collaboration between landscape, urban design, ecological and other professionals. The landscape components of the scheme are an important integral part of the proposals.
Landscape Design and GI Objectives
5.2 The key objectives of the landscape and GI proposals for the scheme are:
To deliver a well-designed proposal which locates development within an appropriate landscape setting of existing and new landscape habitats;
To conserve and protect features of value including hedgerows and trees;
To enhance biodiversity across the Site by introducing native tree planting, grassland, wetland habitat and street trees;
To deliver landscaping which provides for play, recreation and sustainability benefits to include informal play areas, open space, SuDS and native planting;
To ensure that areas of open space are well overlooked by properties, buildings and streets so that these areas are safe and attractive to use;
To minimise any potential adverse landscape or visual effects through careful attention to the siting of proposed development and associated landscape proposals – particular attention paid to the location and orientation of buildings together with retention and enhancement of existing features of value including existing hedgerows and hedgerow trees;
To safeguard the amenities of adjoining properties, particularly the privacy and light enjoyed by adjoining residential areas;
To provide a network of pedestrian/cycle routes which connect into the existing PROW network.
To safeguard and enhance through management the existing SINCs within the Site.
To provide high quality public open space including provisions for children’s play and a Village Green.
To adopt an appropriate landscape management and maintenance regime to ensure the successful establishment and continued thriving of the existing and new planting and open space areas.
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Landscape and Green Infrastructure (GI) Proposals
5.3 The landscape GI and proposals for the scheme are detailed in the DAS accompanying the planning application. In summary these proposals include:
The provision of 7.40 hectares of land dedicated to landscape, GI, public open space, play and habitat related proposals – representing approximately 57% of the total Site area;
Proposed Village Green located in the north of the Site adjacent to Bishopswood Lane to enable easy access to both existing and future residents.
All hedgerows and trees will be retained where possible and utilised as part of the proposed development’s GI. The only tree loss would be to create the necessary Site access point off Bishopswood Lane and main access route through the Site, proposed tree planting within the Site will more than compensate for this loss;
Retained vegetation will form green corridors through the Site providing recreational and biodiversity opportunities;
Landscape buffer to southern boundary featuring new native tree planting to further filter and screen views from the south;
The SINCs within the Site will be retained and enhanced as ecological areas, with one potentially becoming a proposed village green in the north west of the Site.
Two attenuation basins located to the south of the Site will provide habitat creation and amenity;
A proposed equipped LEAP play area located centrally within the Site;
A framework of proposed green corridors through the Site will incorporate existing field boundary vegetation and water courses as well as proposed hedgerows and footpaths providing recreational and ecological benefits;
New structural planting would consist of native species and be designed to complement existing tree planting. The planting mix would include a proportion of extra heavy and heavy standard tree planting in order to create a degree of immediate impact;
Tree planting along the internal access roads as well as on plot planting to complement structural planting along the Site boundaries and further help integrate new housing within its landscape setting and soften the appearance of built form in views from the local area.
5.4 The landscape and GI proposals will also offer the opportunity to address the lack of amenity green space on the western edge of Tadley as identified in the Basingstoke and Deane’s Borough Council’s Green Infrastructure Strategy (refer to para 3.37).
Landscape Management
5.5 All of the landscape areas and public open space features will be managed and maintained. This would be achieved through the implementation of a comprehensive Landscape Management Plan (LMP), to ensure the successful establishment and continued thriving of the landscape proposals.
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6.0 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS
6.1 The following section outlines the likely landscape and visual effects that would arise from proposed development on the Site. Schedules detailing these likely landscape and visual effects for the receptors are included in Appendices D and E respectively. Please refer to these in conjunction with the following descriptions.
Landscape Effects
Construction
6.2 During the construction phase, some short term reversible adverse effects upon the landscape would occur. Anticipated effects would primarily be caused by:
Clearance and set up of compound area;
New junction arrangements at Bishopswood Lane to facilitate the Site access;
New highway works;
Building works; and
Construction traffic, including HGVs and staff cars travelling to and from Site.
6.3 All construction works would be carried out in full accordance with best practice procedures to minimise and protect, as far as practicable, potentially adverse effects upon the local landscape character.
6.4 The landscape effects during construction are assessed as being of a transient nature and, given that the timescales involved would be relatively short, this is considered to be of limited significance overall. Minimal existing vegetation would be removed as part of the development and all retained hedgerows and trees would be protected throughout the construction period. Inevitably there would be some disruption to the Site landscape and its immediate environs during this phase of works however it would be localised and limited in extent, resulting in a minor-moderate adverse landscape effect overall.
Operation (following Completion)
6.5 The proposed development would have no discernible effects upon the Thames Basin Heath character area identified in the national character assessments.
6.6 At a regional level the Site forms a small proportion of the ‘Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath’ and ‘North Sherborne’ Character Areas identified respectively in the Hampshire County Integrated Character Assessment and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council landscape Character Assessment. The site is also influenced by its proximity to the urban edge of Tadley. Effects at a County and Borough level are considered to be as minor adverse, these effects will reduced to negligible after 15 years with the maturing of the proposed mitigation landscape planting.
6.7 Land to the north east and west of the Site falls within the Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath settlement area as identified in the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Landscape Character Assessment. The assessment describes the area as containing ‘mostly modern residential development’, the proposed development would therefore not be uncharacteristic of the adjacent settlement area. In addition, the scheme will use relevant design guidance e.g. The
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Tadley Design Statement 2004, to guide the form and layout of the proposals and will reflect local vernacular designs wherever possible. Effects on the ‘Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath’ settlement area are considered to be negligible.
6.8 The effect of the proposed development upon the character of the landscape at a Site and immediate context would be more marked. The primary change would arise as a direct result of the replacement of agricultural land with residential development and associated infrastructure. The significance of this change to the character would be lessened to some extent by the urban fringe context of the Site.
6.9 It is considered there will be no significant effects upon the Tadley Church Road Conservation Area or the three scheduled monuments located to the north west of the Site due to their distance from the Site and lack of inter-visibility with the Site.
6.10 Effects upon ‘St. John’s’ Grade II listed building located to the north of the Site will be limited by the mature landscape setting of established trees in which the building sits. The fields located to the west of ‘St. John’s’ are not proposed for built development and will instead form a proposed GI this will further limit effects upon the building.
6.11 It is considered there will be no significant effects upon the North Wessex Downs AONB due to its distance from the Site and lack of inter-visibility with the Site.
6.12 The Site is located in an area designated as a Strategic Gap within the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Emerging Local Plan 2011. Both the 2008 and 2010 Landscape Capacity Studies acknowledge that there is some capacity for development within the Baughurst – Tadley Strategic Gap. The Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Capacity Study 2010 states that ‘Where Tadley merges into the north of Baughurst, the separation between settlements is unclear and the eastern edge of Baughurst (east of Baughurst Road) is less strong.’ The study adds that further south there is ‘a more important role in defining the separate character of the two settlements.’ Therefore, it is considered that the northern area of the Strategic Gap in which the Site lies does not contribute as strongly to maintaining the separation of the two settlements as elsewhere within the proposed designation.
6.13 In addition, it is considered that the proposed Site layout will maintain the current level of separation between the two settlements. The three north western fields will form and extensive area of GI and built development will be situated beyond the tree belt along Bishop’s Wood Stream, helping to visually reinforce the separation. It is considered that the proposed development could be accommodated without compromising the integrity of the proposed Strategic Gap designation.
6.14 The Site lies within Local Character Area TA04 within the Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study (2008). The landscape capacity of TA04 is assessed as medium, this is the highest capacity rating of the eleven Character Areas surrounding Tadley assessed within the report. Of the other Character Areas nine are assessed as being of low capacity and one (TA03), which is located to the south of TA04 is assessed as medium/low capacity. The Site is therefore situated in the most suitable location for the future development of Tadley. In addition, in the more detailed Site Options Capacity Study (November 2010), site TAD018 in which the Site lies is assessed as being of medium/high capacity.
6.15 The Site does not have any specific landscape designations relating to landscape value and is consequently considered of medium sensitivity to change.
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6.16 The landscape effects of the proposed development upon the Site itself are considered to be moderate adverse at completion reducing to minor-moderate adverse at Year 10 once planting has established and matured. The effects of the proposed development upon the landscape features within the Site are considered below:
Landform: The proposed development would not result in any unacceptable changes to the existing landform of the Site. Some localised changes would be necessary, for example in creating the attenuation basin and vehicular access roads, but these would be sympathetically designed and would not adversely affect the landform of the Site. No discernible changes are envisaged across the remaining landscape areas.
Vegetation: Mature tree groups are important landscape features within the Site. With the exception of some limited removal of vegetation to create the main vehicular access into and through the Site and for arboriculture requirements, all of the existing vegetation along the Site boundaries and field boundaries would be retained as an integral part of the proposals. The GI would include new tree and shrub planting as well as areas of grassland which would improve the overall age, structure and diversity of vegetation and provide localised benefits overall.
Watercourses and features: The proposed attenuation basin would form part of a larger Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) providing landscape, amenity and biodiversity value further benefitting the landscape. Bishop’s Wood Stream and existing ditches and ponds within the Site will be retained and will form part of the green corridors, which run through the Site, the two existing ponds will also be retained as part of these corridors.
Land use: The majority of the physical landscape resource lost would be open grassland of relatively low ecological value. The designated SINCs within the Site will be retained and managed as part of the proposals.
Public Rights of Way: There is no public access into or within the Site. Overall, there would be localised benefits arising from the proposals in relation to Public Rights of Way and public access. New pedestrian routes are proposed within the Site and provide connections to the existing footpath network including from PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ which runs adjacent to the Site’s western boundary.
6.17 Overall, it is considered that the local landscape and Site have the capacity to accommodate change of the nature proposed without resulting in any unacceptable adverse landscape effects. It is also noted that the scheme would deliver a degree of landscape enhancement through provision of a strong landscape framework.
6.18 The development will include provision of new public open space and the footpath network will be extended into the Site to provide separate and safe routes for pedestrians.
6.19 Proposed tree planting as part of the development will help to blend the town edge into the countryside as it matures. Planting proposals would predominantly utilise native and locally occurring species to maximise biodiversity opportunities. In the longer term this would generate some localised landscape benefits.
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Construction
6.20 All construction works will be carried out in accordance with best practice procedures to protect and to minimise, as far as practicable, adverse impacts on visual amenity.
6.21 During the construction phase, adverse effects upon the local visual resource will occur and this depends on the actual extent of visibility of the Site for receptors. Inevitably those visual receptors in closest proximity that have direct views of the Site will afford views of construction activity to include vehicles and associated machinery, site compounds, and earthworks/ground modelling.
6.22 It is assessed that the overall visual effects during the construction phase would be over a relatively short duration and consequently, there would be a short term effect as a result. Construction effects are judged to result in a low-medium magnitude of visual change on the Site and the immediate landscape and the visual effects would be minor-moderate adverse.
Operation (following Completion)
6.23 The following provides a summary of the visual effects assessment included at Appendix E.
Residential Properties and Settlement
6.24 The belt of existing mature trees to the north of Bishopswood Lane creates a strong visual buffer to the north of the Site. This vegetated buffer heavily screen views of the proposed development from existing properties to the north at Sheridan Close, Huntsmoor Road, Inhurst Way and Whitedown Road. There is potential for heavily filtered views of proposed dwellings from a limited number of properties along Whitedown Road, Inhurst Way and Huntsmoor Road. Including potential views of proposed 3 storey retirement dwellings from a limited number of properties on Inhurst Way. There is also potential for glimpsed views of rooftops/upper storeys of proposed dwellings from the upper storeys of properties off Baughurst Road. These will be limited by the screening effect of intervening vegetation.
6.25 Five properties off Bishopswood Lane including the grade II listed ‘St.John’s’ adjoin the Site’s northern boundary. These properties are set within large mature grounds, existing mature trees will filter and screen views of the proposed development.
6.26 Existing mature trees run along much of the Site’s western boundary and heavily filter views from properties to the west. Proposed houses will be set back from existing properties to the west at The Hawthorns, Blackthorn Close, Bishopswood Lane and Baughurst Road beyond substantial proposed GI. This will minimise the potential effect upon these properties.
6.27 There is a lack of close range ground floor views will from existing properties due to existing vegetation along Site boundaries. Only one property, ‘Stoney Croft’ situated to the north of the Site is identified as having moderate adverse visual effects. This results from potential close range views of the proposed 3 storey retirement dwellings proposed in the north of the site.
6.28 Overall, once the proposed development is complete and planting established (circa Year 10), the resultant visual effects on residential properties are anticipated to be minor adverse where a relatively small number of properties have close-mid range views towards the Site becoming negligible where properties are more distant.
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Public Rights of Way (PROW) and Other Footpaths
6.29 Views of the proposed development from the local Public Rights of Way network have been carefully considered as part of the design process. There are no public rights of way through the site and few surrounding the site. Views from PROWs are predominantly restricted to public footpath ‘Baughurst 49’ adjacent to the western Site boundary and the footpath to the south of the Site ‘Tadley 8’.
6.30 The majority of the route of PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ is well vegetated with mature trees which filter views of the Site. Development will be set back beyond proposed GI within the three north western field of the Site and screened by vegetation within the Site along Bishop’s Wood Stream. Potential views will be limited to glimpsed views of the rooftops of proposed dwellings.
6.31 There are partial views of the Site available from PROW ‘Tadley 8’ which runs from Baughurst Road to Bishopswood Lane, though these are heavily screened by mature intervening vegetation including along Bishop’s Wood Stream.
6.32 It is considered that new planting along the Site boundaries and within the residential area and public open space would further soften and filter views of built form once established.
6.33 At Year 10, it is considered that the proposed development would result in no greater than a minor adverse visual effect.
Roads
6.34 The proposed development would be visible from Bishopswood Lane. Views will mainly be limited to the section of road which will run adjacent to the proposed development in the north east of the Site and in places will include views of the proposed 3 storey retirement dwellings in the north of the site. Existing vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary will be retained where possible and will help to continue to filter views of the Site. The proposed GI in the northwest of the Site will minimise effects on the section of Bishopswood Lane which runs adjacent.
6.35 Views of the proposals from roads to the north of the Site including Inhurst Way, Whitedown Close and Sheridan Crescent will be heavily screened by the belt of mature trees situated to the north of Bishopswood Lane.
6.36 Views from Blackthorn Close and The Hawthorns to the west of the Site are prevented by vegetation along the PROW to the west of the Site and existing residences situated along the roads.
6.37 Views from Baughurst Lane are restricted by established roadside hedgerows and built form along the lane.
6.38 Overall, the proposed development is expected to result in no greater than a minor/moderate adverse visual effect on close proximity views from Bishopswood Lane with visual effects becoming negligible where views are more distant.
Bishopswood Lane Golf Course
6.39 The proposed development would be visible from the driving range of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course. Proposed houses will be set back beyond a landscape buffer to the Site’s south eastern boundary, this buffer will include proposed tree planting which will help screen views as it matures.
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6.40 The Club House and the golf course are situated opposite the driving range to the east of Bishopswood Lane. From these areas views of the proposed development will be screened by the belt of existing mature trees along Bishopswood Lane.
6.41 Overall, it is considered that the visual effects as a result of the proposed development would not result in any unacceptable harm.
6.42 The visual analysis has identified a number of points:
The Site’s Zone of Visual Influence is limited to the north, south and west due to existing mature vegetation.
Views from the driving range to the immediate south east are more open. However, further south eastwards intervening vegetation including along Bishopswood Lane heavily restricts views.
The strong pattern of vegetation provides a robust framework in which to accommodate development with limited visual effects beyond the immediate setting.
The large area of proposed GI in the north west of the Site will mitigate views from receptors to the north and north west of the Site.
Within the wider landscape intervening vegetation restricts views even from elevated positions.
There is a lack of close range ground floor views will from existing properties due to existing vegetation along the Site boundaries. Only one property, ‘Stoney Croft’ situated to the north of the site is identified as having moderate adverse visual effects.
There are few receptors these are generally limited to the two public rights of way (Tadley 8 and Baughurst 49), users of the driving range at Bishopswood Lane and vehicular/pedestrian users of Bishopswood Lane as well as a small number of nearby properties. Visual effects from these receptors will be mitigated with proposed landscape buffers, open space and tree planting. Residual visual effects from views of the southern receptors are assessed as between negligible to moderate/minor adverse.
Night-time Visual Effects
6.43 The impact and the consequential effects of the proposed development with regard to lighting and illumination has been explored and assessed. The Site lies alongside the edge of Tadley and the baseline night time landscape includes light spill and illumination from surrounding residential areas.
6.44 It is expected that the proposed development will follow the latest best practice guidance on lighting installations to minimise light emissions and pollution on the surrounding landscape.
6.45 It is considered that whilst there would be some illumination from the proposed development (as there inevitably would be for any new development) it would be observed in the context of Tadley, which is lit. The perimeter framework of hedges and trees would help to reduce illumination and light spill.
6.46 It is concluded that the lighting effects would not result in a significant harmful effect on the overall night time skies landscape. Effects would be localised to the local landscape and are
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judged to be minor adverse at Year 0 and these would reduce to negligible-minor adverse at Year 10 due to the maturing landscape framework that would further restrict light emissions.
Cumulative Effects
6.47 Planning permission has been granted for the erection of 4 dwellings boundary at The Laurels off Baughurst Road (15/01384/FUL) and the erection of a single property at The Acorns Bishopswood Lane (15/02123/FUL). Both of these proposed developments are located adjacent to the Site’s western boundary, however, due to the small scale of these proposed developments it is considered there would be no combined or sequential cumulative effects.
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7.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
7.1 The Site is situated on the edge of an existing residential area to the west of Tadley. It comprises 9 agricultural fields. The northern and western boundaries are defined by mature trees, the south eastern boundary is defined by a row of Chestnut trees and southern boundary by Bishop’s Wood Stream and associated mature vegetation. The Site contains a framework of mature trees, which form the field boundaries within the Site. A number of ditches also run along field boundaries within the Site.
7.2 This LVA accompanies an outline application of up to 145 dwellings, 60 Extra Care retirement dwellings and associated Public Open Space and GI. The proposed GI includes public open space, hedgerow, tree planting, attenuation ponds and a proposed Village Green. The DAS, which also accompanies this application, provides further details on the proposed development. The Site itself contains no features of local or district level importance although St. John’s, a grade II listed building lies to the north of the Site.
7.3 The visual analysis has identified a number of points including:
The strong pattern of existing vegetation provides a robust framework in which to accommodate development with limited visual effects beyond the immediate setting.
There will be a lack of close range ground floor views of proposed dwellings available from existing properties due to the mature vegetation along the Site’s boundaries.
The Site’s Zone of Visual Influence is limited and there are few visual receptors within the surrounding area.
7.4 It is considered that the proposed development could be accommodated without compromising the integrity of the proposed Strategic Gap designation proposed within Basingstoke and Deane’s emerging local plan.
7.5 The Site is situated in the most suitable location for the future development of Tadley as identified within Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study (February 2008).
7.6 Existing trees along the PROW to the west of the Site and along Bishopswood Lane will provide a buffer between the new development and existing houses to the north and west. Proposed GI to the northwest of the Site will provide a substantial buffer between existing properties to the west and northwest and the new houses. The proposals will also be set back from Bishopswood Lane Golf Course’s driving range beyond a proposed landscape buffer.
7.7 Generally, the majority of views of the proposed development would be filtered and screened to varying degrees by intervening areas of built development, landform and tree and hedgerow cover along the Site boundaries and in the immediate vicinity of the Site.
7.8 The landscape and visual effects of the proposed development at completion would decrease over time as the GI framework establishes and matures. The landscape proposals provide opportunities for habitat creation and recreation within areas of public open space. Once new planting has established, this would soften the appearance of built form and further filter and screen views of new housing.
7.9 Whilst there would inevitably be some adverse landscape and visual effects at completion, it is judged that the effects of the proposed development would be localised and limited in their geographical extent.
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7.10 At completion, the overall landscape effects are judged to be minor-moderate adverse with overall visual effects considered to be minor-moderate adverse. At Year 10, once new planting has had the opportunity to establish and mature, the overall landscape effects are considered to be minor adverse and the overall visual effects are considered to be minor adverse.
7.11 It is considered that the Site and local landscape have the capacity to accommodate development of the modest scale and nature proposed. The proposed development of up to 145 dwellings and associated GI would be appropriate within this landscape context and the effects as a result of the proposed development would not give rise to any unacceptable landscape and visual harm.
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TITLE Gladman Developments Ltd Key 0.00ha 1 TITLE Bishopswood Lane, 5.0mm TITLE 100 Tadley 5.0mm tItLE scale 1:1250 @ a1 N N fpcr topography Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 62.500 text Scale 1:1250 @ a1 2.5mm note 62.500 text N 1:12,500 @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015 1.8mm note (small) 0 250m25 500m50 750m75 1km100 125m 0 Key 0.00ha FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 2 TITLE masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 2 Topography.indd 1 TITLE Key 0.00ha 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm tItLE scale 1:1000 @ a1 50.000 text N N 3.5mm title Scale 1:1000 @ a1 Key 0.00ha 2.5mm note 50.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 25 50 75 100m
TITLE Key 0.00ha
1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm tItLE scale 1:500 @ a1 LEgEND 25.000 text N N 3.5mm title Scale 1:500 @ a1 1 Legend 2.5mm note 25.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 10 20 30 40 50m 0 2 Legend TITLE 3 Legend
1 TITLE 4 Legend 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:250 @ a1 5.0mm tItLE Legend text N N 5 3.5mm title 12.500 Scale 1:250 @ a1 2.5mm note 12.500 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 5 10 15 20 25m 0
5.0mm TITLE 5.0mm tItLE 3.5mm title 2.5mm note 1.8mm note (small)
STATUS
- 00.00.201? First issue. yoU
rev date description by
masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design FpCr Environment and Design Ltd ecology Lockington hall architecture Lockington arboriculture Derby DE74 2rh t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk
client Client
project project name project location
drawing title DraWINg tItLE DraWINg tItLE
scale drawn date Scale yoU Month 201? 1 TITLE drawing number rev 100 scale 1:1 @ a1 0000-L-00 -
CaD file: p:\Standards\Drawing templates\autoCaD\FpCr - metres.dwg
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Ordnance Survey material - Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence Number: 100019980 (Centremapslive.com)
Application Boundary
Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment (2001)
North Sherborne
North Silchester
Tadley nOtes all dimensions to be verified on site. do not scale this drawing. all discrepancies to be Wolverton clarified with project landscape architect. 1 this drawing is the property of Fpcr environment and design ltd and is issued on the TITLE condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:5000 @ a1 wholly or in part without written consent of Fpcr environment and design ltd. 5.0mm tItle Ordnance survey material - crown copyright. all rights reserved. licence number: text n n 100019980 (centremapslive.com). 3.5mm title 250.000 scale 1:5000 @ a1 Hampshire County Integrated Character Assessment (2008) 2.5mm note text 1.8mm note (small) 250.000 0 100 200 300 400 500m 0 Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath n TITLE North Hampshire Lowland Mosaic 1 TITLE scale 1:1250 @ a1 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:2500 @ a1 5.0mm tItle Site falls within National Character text n n 0 25 50 75 100 125m 3.5mm title 125.000 scale 1:2500 @ a1 Area: 129 Thames Basin Heaths 2.5mm note text 1.8mm note (small) 125.000 0 50 100 150 200 250m 0 KeY TITLE application site Boundary 0.00ha 1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:2000 @ a1 Site 5.0mm tItle n n Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 100.000 text scale 1:2000 @ a1 2.5mm note 100.000 text 0 50 100 150 200m Key 0.00ha
TITLE Gladman Developments Ltd Key 0.00ha 1 TITLE Bishopswood Lane, 5.0mm TITLE 100 Tadley 5.0mm tItle scale 1:1250 @ a1 n n fpcr landscape character Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 62.500 text scale 1:1250 @ a1 2.5mm note 62.500 text N 1:12,500 @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015 1.8mm note (small) 0 250m25 500m50 750m75 1km100 125m 0 Key 0.00ha FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 3 TITLE masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 3 Landscape Character .indd 1 TITLE Key 0.00ha 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm tItle scale 1:1000 @ a1 50.000 text n n 3.5mm title scale 1:1000 @ a1 Key 0.00ha 2.5mm note 50.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 25 50 75 100m
TITLE Key 0.00ha
1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm tItle scale 1:500 @ a1 leGend 25.000 text n n 3.5mm title scale 1:500 @ a1 1 legend 2.5mm note 25.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 10 20 30 40 50m 0 2 legend TITLE 3 legend
1 TITLE 4 legend 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:250 @ a1 5.0mm tItle legend text n n 5 3.5mm title 12.500 scale 1:250 @ a1 2.5mm note 12.500 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 5 10 15 20 25m 0
5.0mm TITLE 5.0mm tItle 3.5mm title 2.5mm note 1.8mm note (small)
STATUS
- 00.00.201? First issue. YOU
rev date description by
masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design Fpcr environment and design ltd ecology lockington hall architecture lockington arboriculture derby de74 2rh t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk
client client
project project name project location
drawing title draWInG tItle draWInG tItle
scale drawn date scale YOU Month 201? 1 TITLE drawing number rev 100 scale 1:1 @ a1 0000-L-00 -
cad file: p:\standards\drawing templates\autocad\Fpcr - metres.dwg
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Ordnance Survey material - Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence Number: 100019980 (Centremapslive.com) A
Application Boundary
C Scheduled Monument B A - Bell barrow 250m north-west of Larkwhistle Farm B - Bell barrow: part of the Brimpton Common barrow cemetery C - Round barrow cemetery at Brimpton Common notes all dimensions to be verified on site. do not scale this drawing. all discrepancies to be clarified with project Landscape architect. Listed Buildings 1 this drawing is the property of FPCR environment and design Ltd and is issued on the TITLE condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:5000 @ a1 wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR environment and design Ltd. 5.0mm titLe ordnance survey material - Crown Copyright. all rights reserved. Licence number: text n n 100019980 (Centremapslive.com). 3.5mm title 250.000 scale 1:5000 @ a1 Conservation Area 2.5mm note text 1.8mm note (small) 250.000 0 100 200 300 400 500m 0 n Basingstoke and Deane Emerging Local Plan 2011 TITLE to 2029 (2014)
Proposed Tadley – Baughurst 1 TITLE strategic gap scale 1:1250 @ a1 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm titLe scale 1:2500 @ a1 text n n 0 25 50 75 100 125m 3.5mm title 125.000 scale 1:2500 @ a1 2.5mm note text 1.8mm note (small) 125.000 0 50 100 150 200 250m 0 KeY TITLE application site Boundary 0.00ha 1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:2000 @ a1 5.0mm titLe n n Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 100.000 text scale 1:2000 @ a1 2.5mm note 100.000 text 0 50 100 150 200m Key 0.00ha
TITLE Gladman Developments Ltd Key 0.00ha 1 TITLE Bishopswood Lane, 5.0mm TITLE 100 Tadley 5.0mm titLe scale 1:1250 @ a1 n n fpcr designations Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 62.500 text scale 1:1250 @ a1 2.5mm note 62.500 text N 1:12,500 @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015 1.8mm note (small) 0 250m25 500m50 750m75 1km100 125m 0 Key 0.00ha FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 4 TITLE masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 4 Designations.indd 1 TITLE Key 0.00ha 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm titLe scale 1:1000 @ a1 50.000 text n n 3.5mm title scale 1:1000 @ a1 Key 0.00ha 2.5mm note 50.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 25 50 75 100m
TITLE Key 0.00ha
1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm titLe scale 1:500 @ a1 Legend 25.000 text n n 3.5mm title scale 1:500 @ a1 1 Legend 2.5mm note 25.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 10 20 30 40 50m 0 2 Legend TITLE 3 Legend
1 TITLE 4 Legend 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:250 @ a1 5.0mm titLe Legend text n n 5 3.5mm title 12.500 scale 1:250 @ a1 2.5mm note 12.500 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 5 10 15 20 25m 0
5.0mm TITLE 5.0mm titLe 3.5mm title 2.5mm note 1.8mm note (small)
STATUS
- 00.00.201? First issue. YoU
rev date description by
masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design FPCR environment and design Ltd ecology Lockington Hall architecture Lockington arboriculture derby de74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk
client Client
project Project name Project location
drawing title dRaWing titLe dRaWing titLe
scale drawn date scale YoU Month 201? 1 TITLE drawing number rev 100 scale 1:1 @ a1 0000-L-00 -
Cad file: P:\standards\drawing templates\autoCad\FPCR - metres.dwg
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Ordnance Survey material - Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence Number: 100019980 (Centremapslive.com)
Application Boundary
NOTES All dimensions to be verified on site. Do not scale this drawing. All discrepancies to be clarified with project Landscape Architect. 1 This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the TITLE condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:5000 @ A1 wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd. 5.0mm TITLE Ordnance Survey material - Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence Number: text N N 100019980 (Centremapslive.com). 3.5mm title 250.000 Scale 1:5000 @ A1 2.5mm note text 1.8mm note (small) 250.000 0 100 200 300 400 500m 0 N TITLE
1 TITLE Scale 1:1250 @ A1 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm TITLE scale 1:2500 @ A1 text N N 0 25 50 75 100 125m 3.5mm title 125.000 Scale 1:2500 @ A1 2.5mm note text 1.8mm note (small) 125.000 0 50 100 150 200 250m 0 KEY TITLE Application Site Boundary 0.00ha 1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:2000 @ A1 5.0mm TITLE N N Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 100.000 text Scale 1:2000 @ A1 2.5mm note 100.000 text 0 50 100 150 200m Key 0.00ha
TITLE Gladman Developments Ltd Key 0.00ha 1 TITLE Bishopswood Lane, 5.0mm TITLE 100 Tadley 5.0mm TITLE scale 1:1250 @ A1 N N fpcr AERIAL Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 62.500 text Scale 1:1250 @ A1 2.5mm note 62.500 text N 1:12,500 @ A3 MF November 2015 1.8mm note (small) 0 250m25 500m50 750m75 1km100 125m 0 Key 0.00ha FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure5 TITLE masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig Xx Aerial.indd 1 TITLE Key 0.00ha 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm TITLE scale 1:1000 @ A1 50.000 text N N 3.5mm title Scale 1:1000 @ A1 Key 0.00ha 2.5mm note 50.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 25 50 75 100m
TITLE Key 0.00ha
1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm TITLE scale 1:500 @ A1 LEGEND 25.000 text N N 3.5mm title Scale 1:500 @ A1 1 Legend 2.5mm note 25.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 10 20 30 40 50m 0 2 Legend TITLE 3 Legend
1 TITLE 4 Legend 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:250 @ A1 5.0mm TITLE Legend text N N 5 3.5mm title 12.500 Scale 1:250 @ A1 2.5mm note 12.500 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 5 10 15 20 25m 0
5.0mm TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 3.5mm title 2.5mm note 1.8mm note (small)
STATUS
- 00.00.201? First issue. YOU
rev date description by
masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design FPCR Environment and Design Ltd ecology Lockington Hall architecture Lockington arboriculture Derby DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk
client Client
project Project name Project location
drawing title DRAWING TITLE DRAWING TITLE
scale drawn date Scale YOU Month 201? 1 TITLE drawing number rev 100 scale 1:1 @ A1 0000-L-00 -
CAD file: P:\Standards\Drawing Templates\AutoCAD\FPCR - metres.dwg
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Ordnance Survey material - Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence 2 km Number: 100019980 (Centremapslive.com)
Application Boundary
1 Photo Viewpoints
NOTEs 2 3 all dimensions to be verified on site. Do not scale this drawing. all discrepancies to be 1 5 clarified with project landscape architect. 1 4 This drawing is the property of FpCr Environment and Design ltd and is issued on the TITLE 9 condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either 5.0mm TITLE 100 11 scale 1:5000 @ a1 6 wholly or in part without written consent of FpCr Environment and Design ltd. 5.0mm TiTlE 8 Ordnance survey material - Crown Copyright. all rights reserved. licence Number: text N N 10 100019980 (Centremapslive.com). 3.5mm title 250.000 scale 1:5000 @ a1 2.5mm note text 7 1.8mm note (small) 250.000 0 100 200 300 400 500m 0 N 21 TITLE 12 13 1 TITLE 16 scale 1:1250 @ a1 5.0mm TITLE 100 17 scale 1:2500 @ a1 14 5.0mm TiTlE 15 text N N 0 25 50 75 100 125m 125.000 scale 1:2500 @ a1 3.5mm title 20 19 18 2.5mm note text 1.8mm note (small) 125.000 0 50 100 150 200 250m 0 KEY TITLE application site Boundary 0.00ha 1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:2000 @ a1 5.0mm TiTlE N N Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title 100.000 text scale 1:2000 @ a1 2.5mm note 100.000 text 0 50 100 150 200m Key 0.00ha
TITLE Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Key 0.00ha 1 TITLE Tadley 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:1250 @ a1 5.0mm TiTlE fpcr visual appraisal 62.500 text N N Key 0.00ha 3.5mm title scale 1:1250 @ a1 22 2.5mm note 1:12,500 @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015 62.500 text N 1.8mm note (small) 0 25025 50500m 750m75 1001km 125m 0 Key 0.00ha FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 6 TITLE masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 5 Visual Appraisal.indd 1 TITLE Key 0.00ha 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm TiTlE scale 1:1000 @ a1 50.000 text N N 3.5mm title scale 1:1000 @ a1 Key 0.00ha 2.5mm note 50.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 25 50 75 100m
TITLE Key 0.00ha
1 TITLE 5.0mm TITLE 100 5.0mm TiTlE scale 1:500 @ a1 lEGEND 25.000 text N N 3.5mm title scale 1:500 @ a1 1 legend 2.5mm note 25.000 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 10 20 30 40 50m 0 2 legend TITLE 3 legend
1 TITLE 4 legend 5.0mm TITLE 100 scale 1:250 @ a1 5.0mm TiTlE legend text N N 5 3.5mm title 12.500 scale 1:250 @ a1 2.5mm note 12.500 text 1.8mm note (small) 0 5 10 15 20 25m 0
5.0mm TITLE 5.0mm TiTlE 3.5mm title 2.5mm note 1.8mm note (small)
STATUS
- 00.00.201? First issue. YOu rev date description by
masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design FpCr Environment and Design ltd ecology lockington Hall architecture lockington arboriculture Derby DE74 2rH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk
client Client
project project name project location
drawing title DraWiNG TiTlE DraWiNG TiTlE
scale drawn date scale YOu Month 201? 1 TITLE drawing number rev 100 scale 1:1 @ a1 0000-L-00 -
CaD file: p:\standards\Drawing Templates\autoCaD\FpCr - metres.dwg
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment Properties off and Design Ltd. Grounds of Heath Bishopswood Lane End Village Hall Approximate Extents St. Ann’s Cottage of Site Bishopswood Lane Trees adjacent to site’s western boundary
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 1: View east from Bishopswood Road
Approximate Extents Sheridan Crescent of Site Properties off Vegetation along site’s boundary Vegetation along field Vegetation along site’s The Hawthorns with properties to the south of boundary within site western boundary Vegetation along site’s Property adjacent to Bishopswood Lane Bishopswood Lane northern boundary site’s eastern boundary
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 2: View south from Bishopswoods Lane/Sheridan Crescent junction Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 1 & 2
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Approximate Extents of Site
St. John’s Bishopswood Lane
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 3: View south from Bishopswoods Lane/Sheridan Crescent junction
Approximate Extents of Site Vegetation along site’s Vegetation along field Vegetation allong field Vegetation along site’s northern boundary Woodland Block within Site boundary with properties to the Bishopswood Lane boundary within Site boundary within Site south of Bishopswood Lane
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 4: View south from Bishopswoods Lane Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 3 & 4
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 8 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd. Approximate Extents of Site Vegetation along Field Boundary within Site Property off Inhurst Way Vegetation along Site’s Northern Boundary Bishopswood Lane
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 5: View south Inhurst Way
Approximate Extents of Site Location of Bishopswood Lane Whitedown Road (beyond vegetation)
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 6: View west from Whitedown Road Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 5 & 6
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 9 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised Approximate Extents person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment of Site and Design Ltd.
Vegetation along site’s western boundary Perimeter fencing of Bishopswood Bishopswood Lane Lane Golf Course Driving Range Field boundary vegetation within site
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 7: View north west from Bishopswoods Lane
Mature vegetation along site’s northern boundary
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 8: View north from within site Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 7 & 8
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 10 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Mature vegetation along site’s Location of PROW Baughurst 49 western boundary (beyond vegetation) Properties off Blackthorn Close
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 9: View west from within site Approximate Extents of Site Mature vegetation along PROW adjacent to site’s Blackthorn Close western boundary
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 10: View east from Blackthorn Close Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 9 & 10
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 11 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Approximate Extents of Site Field boundary vegetation within site
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 11: View east from PROW Baughurst 49
Mature vegetation along PROW adjacent to site’s western boundary
Approximate Extents Vegetation along site’s southern Boundary of Site Vegetation along Bishop’s Wood Stream / site’s Vegetation along Bishopswood Lane Overhead electricity pylons southern Boundary
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 12: View north west from adjacent to footpath 49 Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 11 & 12
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 12 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment Approximate Extents and Design Ltd. of Site Baughurst Road Vegetation along Bishop’s Wood PROW Baughurst 49 Stream / site’s southern Boundary
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 13: View north east from Baughurst Road
Approximate Overhead telegraph direction of site and power cables
Baughurst Road Vegetation to the west of Bishopswood Lane Golf Course
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 14: View north east from Baughurst Road Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 13 & 14
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 13 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Property off Baughurst Road Agricultural Outbuildings Property off Approximate Extents Bishopswood Lane Vegetation of Site along PROW Vegetation along Bishop’s Wood Stream / PROW Tadley 8 Baughurst 49 site’s southern Boundary
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 15: View north from PROW Tadley 8
Approximate direction of site Bishopswood Golf Course Driving Range at Club House Bishopswood Golf Course Bishopswood Lane
: View north west from Bishopswood Lane PHOTO VIEWPOINT 16 Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 15 & 16
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 14 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Mature vegetation along Approximate direction of Bishopswood Golf Course Bishopswood Lane site Club House
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 17: View north west from PROW within Bishopswood Golf Course Properties off Baughurst Road
Approximate Bishopswood Lane Golf direction of site Course
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 18: View north west from PROW Tadley 10 Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 17 & 18
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 15 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Great Copse Approximate Building at Curtis Farm Properties off extents of site Baughurst Road PROW Baughurst 11 Properties off Baughurst Road
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 19: View northeast from PROW Baughurst 11
Properties off Wolverton Road Hedgerow along Public Footpath Baughurst 11 Violet Lane Approximate direction of Curtis Farm Buildings at Inhurst Farm Great Copse site Property off Baughurst Road
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 20: View north east from PROW Baughurst 11 Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 19 & 20
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 16 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6343\LANDS\LVIA\6343 Fig 6 - 17 Photo Viewpoints.indd
This page has been left intentionally blank This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Approximate direction of Property off Wolverton site Road
Woodland block on Haughurst Hill Public Footpath Baughurst 7
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 21: View north east from Public Footpath Baughurst 7
Approximate direction of site
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 22: View north from Public Footpath Baughurst 21 on Browning Hill Gladman Developments Ltd
Bishopswood Lane, Tadley
fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 21 & 22
NTS @ A3 LLB / KAD November 2015
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 17 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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This page has been left intentionally blank Appendix A
This page has been left intentionally blank Appendix A Landscape and Visual Appraisal – Methodology and Assessment Criteria
Introduction
The methodology for the landscape and visual appraisal undertaken for the proposed development is detailed in the appraisal report. The following information should be read in conjunction with this methodology.
As advised in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (3rd Edition) (GLVIA3), the judgements made in respect of both landscape and visual effects are a combination of an assessment of the sensitivity of the receptor and the magnitude of the landscape or visual effect. The following details the definitions and criteria used in assessing sensitivity and magnitude for landscape and visual receptors.
Where it is determined that the assessment falls between or encompasses two of the defined criteria terms, then the judgement will be described as High/ Medium or Minor/ Moderate etc. This indicates that the receptor is assessed to lie between the respective definitions or to encompass aspects of both.
Landscape
Landscape Sensitivity
Landscape receptors are assessed in terms of their ‘Landscape Sensitivity’. This combines judgements on the value to be attached to the landscape and the susceptibility to change of the landscape from the type of change or development proposed. The definition and criteria adopted for these contributory factors is detailed below.
There can be complex relationships between the value attached to landscape receptors and their susceptibility to change which can be especially important when considering change within or close to designated landscapes. For example an internationally, nationally or locally valued landscape does not automatically or by definition have a high susceptibility to all types of change. The type of change or development proposed may not compromise the specific basis for the value attached to the landscape.
Landscape Value
Value can apply to a landscape area as a whole, or to the individual elements, features and aesthetic or perceptual dimensions which contribute to the character of the landscape. The following criteria have been used to categorise landscape value. Where there is no clear existing evidence on landscape value, an assessment is made based on the criteria/ factors identified below (based on the guidance in GLVIA3 Box 5.1 Page 84).
Landscape quality (condition)
Scenic quality
Rarity Representativeness
Conservation interest
Recreation value
Perceptual aspects
Associations
Landscape Definition Value
High Landscape receptors of high importance based upon factors of quality, rarity, representativeness, conservation interest, recreational value, perceptual qualities and associations. Limited potential for substitution.
Medium Landscape receptors of medium importance based upon factors of quality, rarity, representativeness, conservation interest, recreational value, perceptual qualities and associations. Capable of substitution.
Low Landscape receptors of low importance based upon factors of quality, rarity, representativeness, conservation interest, recreational value, perceptual qualities and associations. Potential for landscape improvement and creation.
Landscape Susceptibility to Change
This means the ability of the landscape receptor (overall character type/ area or individual element/ feature) to accommodate the proposed development without undue consequences for the maintenance of the baseline position and/ or the achievement of landscape planning policies and strategies. The definition and criteria for the assessment of Landscape Susceptibility to Change is as follows:
Landscape Definition Susceptibility to Change
High A highly distinctive and cohesive landscape receptor, with positive characteristics and features and no or very few detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features intact and in very good condition and/ or rare. Limited capacity to accept the type of change/ development proposed.
Medium Distinctive and more commonplace landscape receptor, with some positive characteristics/ features and some detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features in moderate condition. Capacity to accept well planned and designed change/ development of the type proposed.
Low Landscape receptor of mixed character with a lack of coherence and including detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features that may be in poor or improving condition and few that could not be replaced. Greater capacity to accept the type of change/ development proposed.
Magnitude of Landscape Effects
The magnitude of landscape effects is the degree of change to the landscape receptor in terms of its size or scale of change, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. The table below sets out the categories and criteria adopted in respect of the separate considerations of Scale or Size of the Degree of Change and Reversibility. The geographical extent and duration of change are described where relevant in the appraisal.
Scale or Size of the Degree of Landscape Change
Scale or Size of the Definition Degree of Landscape Change
High Total loss of or major alteration to key characteristics / features and the introduction of new elements totally uncharacteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be fundamentally changed.
Medium Partial loss of or alteration to one or more key characteristics / features and the introduction of new elements that would be evident but not necessarily uncharacteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be obviously changed.
Low Limited loss of, or alteration to one or more key characteristics/ features and the introduction of new elements evident and/ or characteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be perceptibly changed.
Negligible Very minor alteration to one or more key characteristics/ features and the introduction of new elements characteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be minimally changed.
None No loss or alteration to the key characteristics/ features, representing ‘no change’.
Reversibility
Reversibility Definition
Irreversible The development would be permanent and the site could not be returned to its current/ former use.
Reversible The development could be deconstructed/ demolished and the site could be returned to broadly its current/ historic use (although that may be subject to qualification depending on the nature of the development).
Visual
Sensitivity of Visual Receptors
Visual sensitivity assesses each visual receptor in terms of their susceptibility to change in views and visual amenity and also the value attached to particular views. The definition and criteria adopted for these contributory factors is detailed below.
Visual Susceptibility to Change
The susceptibility of different visual receptors to changes in views and visual amenity is mainly a function of; firstly, the occupation or activity of people experiencing the view at particular locations; and secondly, the extent to which their attention or interest may therefore be focussed on the views and visual amenity they experience.
Visual Definition Susceptibility to Change
High Residents at home with primary views from ground floor/garden and upper floors. Public rights of way and footpaths where attention is focussed on the landscape and on particular views. Visitors to heritage assets or other attractions whose attention or interest is likely to be focussed on the landscape and/ or on particular views. Communities where views make an important contribution to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents. Travellers on recognised scenic routes.
Medium Residents at home with secondary views (primarily from first floor level). Public rights of way and footpaths where attention is not focussed on the landscape and/ or particular views. Travellers on road, rail or other transport with a focus on the landscape.
Low Users of outdoor recreational facilities where the view is less important to the activities (e.g. sports pitches). Travellers on road, rail or other transport where views are primarily focussed on the transport route. People at their place of work where views of the landscape are not important to the quality of the working life.
Value of Views
The value attached to a view takes account of any recognition attached to a particular view and/ or any indicators of the value attached to views, for example through guidebooks or defined viewpoints or references in literature or art.
Value of Views Definition
High A unique or identified view (eg. shown as such on Ordnance Survey map, guidebook or tourist map) or one noted in literature or art. A view where a heritage asset makes an important contribution to the view.
Medium A typical and/ or representative view from a particular receptor.
Low An undistinguished or unremarkable view from a particular receptor.
Magnitude of Visual Effects
Magnitude of Visual Effects evaluates each of the visual effects in terms of its size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. The table below sets out the categories and criteria adopted in respect of the Scale or Size (including the degree of contrast) of Visual Change. The distance and nature of the view and whether the view will be permanent or transient are also detailed in the Visual Effects Table.
Scale or Size of the Definition Degree of Visual Change
High The proposal will result in a large and immediately apparent change in the view, being a dominant and new and/ or incongruous feature in the landscape.
Medium The proposal will result in an obvious and recognisable change in the view and will be readily noticed by the viewer.
Low The proposal will constitute a minor component of the wider view or a more recognisable component that reflects those apparent in the existing view. Awareness of the proposals will not have a marked effect on the overall nature of the view.
Negligible/ None Only a very small part of the proposal will be discernible and it will have very little or no effect on the nature of the view.
Level of Effect
The final conclusions on effects, whether adverse or beneficial, are drawn from the separate judgements on the sensitivity of the receptors and the magnitude of the effects. This overall judgement involves a reasoned professional overview of the individual judgements against the criteria, to then make the overall judgement.
Whilst GLVIA3 notes at paragraph 5.56 that there are no hard and fast rules about the level of effects, the criteria adopted for this landscape and visual appraisal are defined as follows:
Major: An effect that will fundamentally change and be in direct contrast to the existing landscape or views;
Moderate: An effect that will markedly change the existing landscape or views but may retain or incorporate some characteristics/ features currently present;
Minor: An effect that will entail limited or localised change to the existing landscape/ views or will entail more noticeable localised change but including both adverse and beneficial effects and is likely to retain or incorporate some characteristics/ features currently present;
Negligible: An effect that will be discernible yet of very limited change to the existing landscape or views.
Appendix B
This page has been left intentionally blank National Character 129. Thames Basin Heaths Area profile: Supporting documents
www.naturalengland.org.uk
1 National Character 129. Thames Basin Heaths Area profile: Supporting documents
(including Aldershot). Formal and informal greenspace is concentrated in the Summary east of the NCA, and includes country parks, woodlands and golf courses (such as Wentworth). The Kennet and Blackwater valleys are a focus for sand and gravel extraction. The Thames Basin Heaths National Character Area (NCA) stretches westwards from Weybridge in Surrey to the countryside around Newbury in Berkshire. Semi-natural habitat is extensive on the plateaux, and includes mosaics of The London greenbelt incorporates countryside around Chobham and the wet and dry heathland, woodland and acid grassland. These habitats (and bird rivers Wey and Mole. West of the greenbelt, 20th-century development has populations of nightjar, Dartford warbler and woodlark) are of international given rise to large conurbations including Camberley and the ‘new town’ of importance; they are protected by the Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham Bracknell. Among these conurbations, gardens amount to a significant area Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the Thames Basin Heaths Special of greenspace, with rhododendron being a particular feature, and a major Protection Area (SPA), as well as being nationally designated as Sites of Special road network incorporates the M25 and M3. This densely settled area can be a Scientific Interest (SSSI). In the east, the close proximity of semi-natural habitats significant source of pollution and rapid run-off. to settlements gives rise to recreation and education opportunities, as well as to problems such as fly-tipping, arson and disturbance. Further from London, in the west, the settlement pattern is a mix of dispersed hamlets, farmsteads and houses interspersed with villages, many of medieval To the west, international sites include the three wetland SAC of the Kennet and origin. Vestiges of the historic royal hunting forests of Bagshot, Eversley, Lambourn Flood Plain, the Kennet Valley Alderwoods and the River Lambourn. Pamber and Windsor comprise parkland, ancient woodland, and small to The Kennet and Loddon catchments drain the plateaux and intervening clay medium-sized fields of semi-natural grassland. Features include ancient valleys. Agriculture in the valleys is mixed, and there are fragments of historic hedgerows and veteran trees, and there are parklands at The Vyne and meadows and reedbeds. Highclere Castle. In the far west, the chalk scenery of the Woodland accounts for a quarter of this NCA, reflecting the predominance of Hampshire Downs escarpment and the low-grade agricultural land. Only 20 per cent of this woodland is on ancient countryside around the River Pang are both woodland sites, with the majority of it having grown up or been planted on designated as part of the North Wessex former heathland – much of which is or was common land. Conifers and Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty rhododendron are particularly distinctive in the east of the NCA. In this heavily (AONB), which makes up wooded landscape, there are significant timber and biomass opportunities. 17 per cent of the NCA. Common land is found across the NCA, with the largest commons found on raised plateaux of Tertiary sands and gravels. On these deposits, farming is largely limited to rough pasture and there are large estates. Non-agricultural land uses are widespread, and include large plantations and military bases Click map to enlarge; click again to reduce.
3 National Character 129. Thames Basin Heaths Area profile: Supporting documents
Key characteristics
■ Plateaux of Tertiary sands and gravels in the London Basin, with intervening continuous mosaics are found in the east: they include Thursley, Ash, river valleys floored by London Clay. In the far west, Chalk forms the Pirbright and Chobham Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and Chobham Hampshire Downs escarpment and the river beds of the Kennet and Pang. Common National Nature Reserve (NNR).
■ High woodland cover, offering an array of colour in the autumn. Conifers ■ Historic commons offer tranquillity and unenclosed views, while other and large plantations on former heathland are dominant features in the rights of access are enjoyed across farmland, canals and downland. Ministry east, while the west is scattered with small, semi-natural woodlands on of Defence ownership restricts (but does not entirely prevent) public ancient sites. enjoyment.
■ Acid, leached soils mean that farming on the plateaux is limited to rough ■ ‘Churring’ nightjars, dragonflies and purple heather are all readily identified pasture, and that alternative land uses (such as forestry, golf courses and with heathland. The Thames Basin Heaths SPA protects internationally horse paddocks) have emerged. Heather, gorse, oak and birch all thrive important populations of woodlark, nightjar and Dartford warbler. here. Arable land and improved pasture are found in the valleys, on alluvium. ■ Valley floors are wet with ditches, numerous watercourses, ponds, water- filled gravel pits, reedbeds and carr. Historic features include mills, relict ■ Beyond the large areas of heathland and woodland, there is a patchwork water meadows, and canals such as the River Wey Navigations. of small to medium-sized fields with woods. The legacy of historic hunting forests includes veteran trees, ancient woods, ancient hedgerows and ■ 20th-century conurbations, including Camberley, sprawl along the parklands. Historic meadows remain as fragments along watercourses. Blackwater Valley, with associated roads (including the M3) dissecting heathland and woodland into blocks. Elsewhere, there are winding lanes ■ Prehistoric earthworks such as barrows and hill forts mark promontories and historic dispersed villages and farmsteads of traditional, locally-made on the plateaux. Archaeology is well preserved on historic heathland. brick and tile. Mosaics of open heathland and grassland with scrub, secondary woodland and plantation. Valley bogs, ponds and streams enhance diversity. Large,
6
This page has been left intentionally blank 1A: PAMBER AND TADLEY PLANTATIONS AND HEATH
Silchester Roman settlement – on the eastern edge of the character areas overlooking the lowlands to the east.
Small pasture fields near Tadley Hill ©Pamber Forest © Colin Bates - Soke Pig farm near Tadley Soke Pig Pam Brophy- Geograph Geograph Farm © Graham Horn - Geograph
St Peters Church nr Tadley © Pam Pamber Heath piecemeal linear Stream at Haughurst Hill, wooded Brophy - Geograph housing development along main steep sided stream valley west roads © Colin Bates - Geograph Tadley. © Geograph
Hampshire County 1 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath .
This page has been left intentionally blank Hampshire County 2 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath .
This page has been left intentionally blank 1.0 Location and Boundaries 1.1 This Character Area is characterised by assart woodland and enclosures along with remnant heath and a significant concentration of Roman archaeology. The northern boundary of this character area is defined by the County boundary although the character of this landscape extends beyond to the north. To the south the landscape is defined by the gradual transition into the more open, mixed farmland landscape of character area 2A.
1.2 Component County Landscape Types Lowland Mosaic Heath Associated, Woodland and Plantation on Heath, Settlement – including Pamber Heath, Tadley and Silchester
1.3 Composition of Borough/District LCAs: Basingstoke and Dean North Silchester Wolverton (small part) North Sherborne (small part)
This character area is more extensive than the Borough North Silchester character area which is drawn closely to reflect the extent of mixed heath and plantation woodland over heath and acid sandy soils. This character area includes settlement that grew up along the edge of, and had grazing commoner’s rights to, the heath commons such as Tadley and Baughurst. Hence it includes the mixed farmland and woodland small scale landscape type associated with this piecemeal development.
1.4 Associations with NCAs and Natural Areas: NCA 129: Thames Basin Heaths NA 66: London Basin
2.0 Key Characteristics • Gently undulating plateau landscape with areas of more pronounced undulations associated with water courses. • Mixture of soils ranging from sandy poor soils in the north to less well drained soils in the south. • Rich biodiversity due to the mosaic of woodland, heathland, wetland and grassland habitats. • Extensive areas of coniferous heath plantation and assart woodland giving an enclosed wooded character. • Remnant areas of dry heathland e.g. Silchester Common.
Hampshire County 3 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . • Medium scaled assart enclosures supporting predominantly pastoral landuse with some areas of arable. • Limited views out of this landscape as result of plateau character and extent of woodland cover, especially conifer plantations. • Principle periods of exploitation appear to be Bronze and Iron Age, Roman and mid to late 20th century – with little in between. • Important area for Roman archaeology associated with the Roman town of Silchester. • Quiet, rural character.
3.0 Physical Characteristics and Land Use 3.1 Much of this character area forms a gently undulating plateau which is dissected by water courses particularly in the northeast and southwest. In these latter areas the landform can take on a more pronounced undulating form. Land rises to just over 100m AOD in the north around Heath End and slopes generally in a southerly direction to approximately 70m AOD.
3.2 The northern fringes of this landscape are underlain predominantly by plateau gravels giving rise to heath soils and resulting in acid loving vegetation. Further south the soils are well drained, fine and silty progressively becoming influenced by clay deposits and resulting in slowly permeable soils. Landuse is a mixture of woodland (native and plantation), remnant patches of dry heath and pasture, with only limited patches of arable. This in part can be attributed to the sensitivity of the area for buried and upstanding archaeology and the implementation of management agreements with local landowners accordingly. Agricultural land quality is generally medium quality with small patches of lower quality along river course e.g. around West End Brook and Ashford Hill Meadows.
3.3 The distinct heath associated vegetation and areas of coniferous heath plantation gives rise to contrasting areas of semi-natural vegetation on the commons through to more formal managed and uniform landscape within the plantations e.g. Benyan’s Inclosure and Hundred Acre Piece.
3.4 In addition to the plantations this landscape has a high concentration of broadleaved woodland e.g. Pamber Forest and smaller copses. Between the copses is a pattern of medium scaled fields defined by thick hedgerows with hedgerow trees.
3.5 Adjacent to urban areas land has been used for recreational purposes such as Tadley Common (common rights now extinguished) and Bishopswood Golf Club to the south of Tadley.
3.6 This character area falls within the Environment Agency River Kennet/ Enborne catchment area to the west and River Kennet/Foudry Brook catchment area to the east. There are two watercourses which dissect this area and flow eastwards namely West End Brook and Bishop’s Wood Stream. Kiln Pond (located on the West End Brook) is the only water body in this character area.
Hampshire County 4 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . 4.0 Experiential/Perceptual Characteristics 4.1 This is an inward looking landscape with medium to short range views contained by vegetation and topography. The maturity of the woodland, hedgerows and trees coupled with the remains of archaeological earthworks projects a strong but disjointed historic character where Roman archaeological remains are isolated elements superseded by a pattern which is more recent.
4.2 Key attractions in this landscape are the Roman remains of Silchester Roman Town (Roman wall and earthworks) and features such as the Roman Amphitheatre. In addition to this there is a central swathe of accessible broadleaved woodland (Pamber Forest) which cuts through this character area linking areas of former common e.g. Silchester Common and providing open access. Ashford Hill Meadows located in the east of this character area is a National Nature Reserve and also provides open access. There is a medium density of public rights of way throughout this area connecting into areas of more open access.
4.3 Much of this area retains a quiet character, although its predominately rural nature is disrupted in western parts by the urban influence of Tadley, and Pamber Heath. Areas of open common can appear rough and unmanaged in appearance increasing a sense of naturalness and contrasting with the more managed areas of conifer plantation or urban development. Night light pollution from urban areas of Tadley and Pamber Heath undermines tranquillity.
5.0 Biodiversity Character 5.1 This landscape character area contains agricultural habitats, woodland and heath associated habitats particularly to the west and south. In the north of the area there is a large residential area associated with Tadley, while to the east there is an area of coniferous woodland containing patches of remnant parkland and broadleaved woodland. In the north there are some small patches of lowland heath with associated bracken growth. These contain a mix of habitats including dry heath, mires, bare ground, open water, acid grassland, scrub and wooded areas and provide important and specialist habitats.
5.2 There is a sizeable area of active coppice with standards in the southeast of the area, associated with Pamber Forest. Hazel coppice with oak and ash standards relate to the historical production of hazel wattle sheep hurdling and can support rich flora and butterfly populations if the coppice is cut regularly. There are occasional small ponds and patches of marshy grassland in this character area which can support wetland species and provide important variation within the wider habitat mosaic. Ancient and semi-natural woodland is fairly widespread through this landscape and much of it is covered by nature conservation designations.
5.3 There are three SSSIs designated in this landscape character area including Pamber Forest and Silchester Common SSSI and LNR (consisting of an area of ancient oak woodland, with two heathland commons and a series of unimproved wet meadows), Ron Ward’s Meadow with Tadley Pastures SSSI (comprising unimproved meadows traditionally managed for hay production -the south facing sloping nature of the site gives rise to habitat variation illustrated by the 28 ancient grassland species) and, Ashford Hills Woods and Meadows SSSI (comprising ancient oak woodlands with some stands of hazel and ash adjacent to dry and wet pastures).
Hampshire County 5 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . 5.4 This area is part of two Biodiversity Opportunity Areas. In the west, Ashford Hills BOA is made up of a range of habitats, including ancient woodland, wet woodland, lowland meadows and rush pastures. The intimate juxtaposition of habitats within a small area gives rise to great biological richness. In the east of the area, Silchester/Tadley BOA comprises lowland heath and dry acid grasslands along with mixed woodlands and wet woodlands and covers heathlands which support woodlark, nightjar and Dartford warbler, three species listed in Annex 1 of the EC Directive on the Conservation of Birds.
5.5 There are over 35 SINCs within this landscape character area, mainly designated for the ancient and semi-natural woodlands they support. Benyon’s Inclosure is a large SINC, covering 182 hectares and designated because it contains ancient and semi- natural woodlands, including species limited to Hampshire, along with areas of woodland over heathland with sufficient remnant heath to enable habitat recovery. Hundred Acre and Fifty Acre Pieces SINC is also an area of woodland over heathland with sufficient remnant heath to enable habitat recovery.
6.0 Historic Character 6.1 Archaeology 6.1.1 The evolution of this landscape, either for pasture or plantation, is a relatively late event, reflecting the weak and poor sandy soils and gravel geology.
6.1.2 There is only very limited Mesolithic evidence currently recorded. Similarly no sites of Neolithic date have been found although some Neolithic material has been recorded which may suggest exploitation of this area in the Neolithic without settlement. The chalk to the south seems to have been settled in the Neolithic and it may be the emerging arable based communities on the chalk exploited these higher, poorer, heath lands, perhaps by grazing.
6.1.3 This pattern is likely to have continued into the Bronze Age and a number of impressive Bronze Age barrows are recorded along the high gravel ridge over looking the Kennet Valley (of which this landscape forms a part). The Kennet Valley is rich in Bronze Age settlement evidence and it is not a great leap to suppose that these communities were utilising the heath land on the gravel ridge above the valley.
6.1.4 In the late Iron Age there is a considerable change. An Iron Age Oppidum was established at Silchester (Calleva Atrebatum). The evolution of such an important settlement within this otherwise quite weak landscape probably reflects its position in relation to political boundaries at the time. None the less the establishment of this centre will have had an impact on the nature of the exploitation and use of the adjacent area. This Oppidum evolved in to a Roman Civitas Capital, and Roman roads radiate from it across the character area. There is evidence of both clay and gravel extraction during this period and it is likely that the Roman town had a continuing and increasing impact on the landscape around it, with the development of market gardening and dispersed occupation sites and farms/villas.
6.1.5 However, once the Roman town was abandoned and the direct influence of its economy on the local area was removed it seems likely that the exploitation of the area reverted to a lower level, with less enclosure and settlement. Thus this area’s more recent history and evolution shares similar traits to the other plateau gravel
Hampshire County 6 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . areas i.e. the current dispersed settlement would seem to be a relatively recent landscape addition.
6.2 Historic Landscape 6.2.1 In the medieval period this area was part of the Royal Forest of Pamber and was used for hunting and the production of timber. Extensive areas of this woodland were subject to clearance or assarting in the 14th century while other areas remained wooded until much more recently (17th and 18th century). It is the woodland/plantations on heath or common character which remains evident today and the different phases of clearance have resulted in two distinct historic patterns which are described below.
6.2.2 To the north and west of Silchester there is a pattern of medium scaled irregular fields and broadleaved copses/shaws which are often wavy in form. This pattern may reflect the process of piecemeal clearance of the former Forest and enclosure for agriculture. These areas are also associated with a dispersed pattern of small farmsteads (see below) suggesting medieval or late medieval field systems. Pamber Forest is the most significant block of remaining assarted woodland in this area and where traditional coppice management can still be found. Elsewhere some of the smaller assart woods have been replanted with conifers. The extent of heathland/common in this character area has diminished as a result of development encroachment but also conifer plantations which were established in the 19th century e.g. Hundred Acre Piece and Benyon’s Enclosure. On Silchester Common some areas of open heath have been lost through scrub and woodland encroachment as a result of lack of grazing.
6.2.3 West of Tadley and also to the south the landscape shows evidence of much later and larger scale clearance probably in the 17th and 18th centuries. In this area there are also areas of parliamentary enclosure, presumably from commons and large blocks of conifer woodland. Areas of open common/heath comprise remnants of what is likely to have been more extensive common used for grazing livestock.
6.3 Built Environment 6.3.1 This landscape is traversed by minor roads and lanes which connect the settlements and dispersed farmsteads. The pattern of roads and lanes is varied but distinct. In farmed areas the network is relatively dense, the lanes being sinuous and rural in character flanked by hedgerows. Where lanes cross areas of former heath and common they become straight and are often undefined. In settlements the road network takes on an urban character with kerbing and street lighting. Significantly, the lines of former Roman roads associated with Silchester are no longer in use and today form only remnant or subtle features in the landscape reflecting the abandonment of the Roman infrastructure followed by the gradual establishment of an entirely different phase of communication networks.
6.3.2 This is a landscape which has experienced distinct phases of settlement and exploitation. The pattern seen today reflects a medieval and latter pattern of nucleated hamlets/villages which emerged particularly on the edges of heath or common. Church Road Tadley and Ramsdell both have conservation areas and comprise a loose connection of dwellings thought to have developed as a result of engagement in the production of wood products and crafts from local forests/woods
Hampshire County 7 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . in the medieval period. Similarly Silchester and Tadley are common edge settlements with Conservation Areas, the former has a range of building types; timber framed with brick infill, red brick, mostly tiled roofs with some thatch and slate. The church is an important focal point; mostly of flint/brick with stone dressings. In the 20th century, Silchester and Tadley saw considerable growth such that the urban development of Tadley now dwarfs that of the original historic medieval core. This growth in part reflects the development of nearby towns such as Newbury and Reading. This recent housing growth has altered the settlement pattern as well as the original form of villages in this area.
6.3.3 There are very few historic farmsteads. They tend to be found scattered through this area at intervals along the rural lane network particularly in the east and are not found in areas of former common or plantation. They tend to be small, comprising a mixture of agricultural buildings including barns, granaries, cartsheds and stables. Stained weatherboarding on farmstead barns is a repetitive vernacular feature of this area. In particular there is an important farm group at Manor Farm, Silchester, which comprises timber framed aisled barns, weatherboarded with large areas of hipped roofs; some tiled, some corrugated sheet.
6.3.4 More specifically the vernacular architecture of this character area comprises timber framed buildings, the use of red brick, and clay tile roofing. However, the extent of recent development means that this vernacular character is no longer dominant. More recent housing development uses a variety of building material and brick colours and roofing is often Welsh slate.
6.3.5 The above ground earthwork remains of the Roman town of Silchester are a special component of this landscape.
Hampshire County 8 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . EVALUATION
7.0 Forces for Change 1. Urban growth (particularly around Tadley), and incremental suburbanisation of landscapes and roads. 2. Changing land management practices, particularly associated with forestry, and agricultural intensification. 3. Mineral extraction, including a safeguarded quarry site on the northern edge of the area, and a safeguarded area for sand and gravel extraction. 4. Climate change, particularly potential for increased storms, droughts and disease resulting in tree loss.
KEY QUALITIES AND EFFECTS OF FORCES 7.1 Varied/distinct pattern of roads and public rights of way (sinuous and hedged in farmed areas, straight across heathland), with relatively high proportion of publicly accessible land. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES CHANGE: Most influence: Threats: 1.2. Lack of access into the countryside from towns. Conflicts of interest between motorised and non-motorised users of roads and other public rights of way. Speeding traffic on straight roads is a particular issue in this area.
Opportunities: Potential to link areas of publicly accessible land (e.g. accessible woodland, forest, common land, nature reserves and archaeological sites), and to improve links between towns and countryside, in accordance with CAP actions. Potential use of Rural Roads Initiative to retain the character of rural roads whilst meeting Highways standards. In particular the issue of vehicle speeds on straight roads needs to be addressed, and also the retention of the character of the sinuous rural lanes. This could include the management of road verges to increase species diversity and encourage their use as “green corridors” to facilitate wildlife movement.
7.2 An important area for Roman archaeology, particularly associated with the Roman settlement at Silchester. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES CHANGE: Most influence: Threats: 2.3. Potential loss of fragile buried and upstanding archaeology through ploughing, tree planting, neglect or other changes in land use. Potential loss of archaeology due to future mineral extraction.
Opportunities: Continuation and enhancement of existing stewardship schemes to prevent damage to buried and upstanding archaeology through ploughing or other means. Sensitive interpretation of and public access to archaeological features within the landscape, such as traces of Roman roads, in accordance with CAP actions. Use minerals planning policy and conditions to minimise impacts of works on archaeology.
Hampshire County 9 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . 7.3 Sandy soils support extensive areas of contrasting coniferous plantation and ecologically valuable assarted deciduous woodland, with additional biodiversity deriving from the pockets of unimproved pasture and areas of remnant heathland and commons. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES CHANGE: Most influence: Threats: 2.3.4. Continued visual and ecological impact of large quarry/landfill site on the northern edge of the character area. Lack of ecological diversity in conifer plantations. Potential poor management of ancient deciduous woodland. Loss of historic field patterns, particularly in the area to the North and West of Silchester Past (and potential future). Loss of rare unimproved pasture and heathland habitats due to scrub encroachment, forestry and agriculture. Climate change may result in loss of species biodiversity throughout these varied habitats due to increased drought, diseases etc.
Opportunities: Use of minerals planning policies and conditions to ensure appropriate management and restoration of the quarry/landfill site on the northern boundary, to maximise future ecological diversity and blend into the surrounding landscape. Influence forestry management to improve species and structural diversity, and the ecological value of coniferous plantations. Potential use of timber as sustainable woodfuel to help combat effects of climate change. Use of woodland grant schemes to encourage programme of traditional woodland management, for example coppice management at Pamber Forest. Target agri-environment schemes to encourage retention of historic field patterns through management of hedgerows and hedgerow trees, and promote grassland and heathland management to minimise scrub encroachment, maximise biological diversity, and encourage linking of similar habitats in accordance with BOA targets.
7.4 A quiet and rural area containing a dispersed pattern of common-edge villages. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES CHANGE: Most influence: Threats: 1. Increased urbanisation of larger settlements (e.g. Tadley, Silchester and Pamber Heath) has led to changes in the pattern and form of settlements. Vernacular character has a reduced dominance in these settlements. Major proposed residential development at Tadley. Increased suburbanisation, particularly in villages, due to changes in kerbing, lighting, signage etc which reduces the rural quality of the area. Adjacent to urban areas, there is pressure on land to be used for recreational purposes, such as golf courses, which further affect its rural character.
Opportunities: Local-level assessments such as Village Design Statements and Parish Plans provide an opportunity to identify valued features in the built environment and retain the character of settlements, avoiding the effects of suburbanisation on settlement in this area. Use of planning conditions to help integrate new development into the landscape and ensure new extensions to towns and villages fit into the traditional form of the settlement. Use of planning policies and conditions, and CAP actions to ensure that land is made available for recreation in a way that is not detrimental to the character of the surrounding countryside.
Hampshire County 10 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath . BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT: MAIN REPORT Part 2: Landscape Character Areas North Sherborne
4. North Sherborne
Key characteristics
• gently undulating, subtle landform dissected by a network of minor tributary valleys; • pattern of predominantly arable farmland and improved grassland with occasional well-managed parkland, enclosed within an established woodland and hedgerow structure with many hedgerow trees; • south-west corner lies within North Wessex Downs AONB, and overall landscape typically has a rural char- acter, except near Tadley and Mortimer to the north and Basingstoke/Chineham to the southeast. Generally quiet, apart from areas along the busy A340; • predominantly assarted and small parliamentary fields, giving way to large wavy, small wavy and parlia- mentary fields to the east; • two pockets of more open arable farmland towards the south-east, characterised by parliamentary fields with infrequent woodland cover and low, well-cut hedgerows, notably between The Vyne and North Chineham and to the north-west of Bramley; • variety of woodland, including small predominantly broadleaf copses and larger woodland such as Morgaston Wood and Carpenters Down Wood. Also Pamber Forest, which has placed a crucial role in the historical development of the area; • remnant areas of scarce habitat types including ancient semi-natural woodland, heathland (notably part of the Pamber Forest and Silchester Common SSSI), and neutral/acidic unimproved grassland. The latter includes Ron Wards Meadow with Tadley Pastures SSSI, one of Hampshire’s finest surviving hay meadow/pasture complexes; • three distinctive areas of parkland, 'The Vyne' (Grade II), Beaurepaire Park and Ewhurst Park, contributing a well-managed element to the landscape; • moderate intervisibility across the area, with vegetation and low-lying nature of the landscape containing dis- tant views; • apart from the larger settlement of Tadley, a settlement pattern dominated by small villages, hamlets, isolat- ed farmsteads and individual properties distributed throughout the rural landscape, reached through a network of narrow, winding roads; • remarkably preserved Roman town of Calleva Atrebatum (Silchester) and its associated earthworks, together with many other Scheduled Ancient Monuments, reinforcing the historic richness of the landscape.
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Location and boundaries In many areas the landscape has retained a quiet, rural character, with a network of narrow, winding roads linking This character area lies in the north of the Borough and the dispersed villages, hamlets and isolated farmsteads. stretches from the more wooded Wolverton character area The quietness of the area is disrupted, however, in those to the west, to the Loddon and Lyde valley system to the areas along the A340 corridor, and the rural character east. The northern boundary is marked by the settlement of affected near the larger settlements of Tadley, Mortimer Tadley, the enclosed plantation and heathland landscape of and Chineham. the North Silchester character area, and the Borough boundary. Its southern boundary is defined by the distinct Key issues change in geology between the clay/Bagshot Beds of the lowland mosaic and the chalkland to the south. • poor species and structure diversity and ecological value within coniferous plantations; Formative influences • under-management of the numerous ancient semi-nat- ural woodlands, including hazel coppice woods; This area is underlain predominantly by heavy clay, per- • loss of broadleaf woodlands; meable sands and gravels, forming a subdued, low-lying • relatively weak landscape structure, primarily within landform which strongly contrasts with the elevated chalk- more open arable landscapes, and resulting need to lands to the south. Minor streams have dissected the under- encourage hedgerow planting; lying geology, resulting in a gently undulating topography. • management of hedgerows and field patterns of his- Much of this area was formerly part of the Royal Forest toric significance, and retention of hedgerow tree of Pamber. In medieval times, the process of 'assarting' saplings; progressively cleared the once large-scale woodland cover. • management of road verges and hedgebanks, and dam- Of particular archaeological importance is the remarkable age from scrub encroachment, road improvements and preserved Roman town of Calleva Atrebatum (Silchester) legacy of agrochemical use on adjacent farmland; and its associated earthworks, which were built on an • lack of permanent grass field margins, including uncul- existing Iron Age settlement. Occupation was established tivated buffer strips next to rivers, streams and other elsewhere within the area by the medieval period. For sensitive habitats; example Ewhurst, Sherborne St John and Monk Sherborne • loss of heath associated vegetation through inappropri- are amongst settlements mentioned in Domesday survey of ate management and more intensive agricultural use; 1086. • management of unimproved neutral grassland and areas of neutral/acidic unimproved/semi-improved Overall landscape character grassland, to maintain or enhance biodiversity; • some adverse impacts of horse grazing (e.g. rank grass- In common with much of the lowland landscape to the land with weeds, poorly-managed boundaries or inap- north of the Borough, this area is a patchwork of mixed propriate styles of fencing etc.); farmland and woodland, which forms the setting for a • conservation and management of Calleva Roman town diversity of other landscapes including managed parkland, and associated historic features; minor valleys, and more extensive areas of woodland. • localised suburban influence of some built develop- Despite its diversity, the overall effect is a unified and bal- ment and roads, including suburban styles of fencing, anced landscape, with the low-lying and gently undulating signage, lighting and planting, and impacts on quiet, landform linking the various landscape types into one dis- rural character in immediate areas. tinct character area. A small southern part of the area, between Wolverton and Ramsdell, lies within the North Wessex Downs AONB.
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Key designations
Scheduled Ancient Monuments Sites of Special Scientific Interest Biodiversity Action Plans Earthworks S. of Silchester (SMs 24333,24334) Pamber Forest and Silchester Common Ancient Semi-natural Woodland Medieval moated site and fishponds, Pamber Ron Wards Meadow and Tadley pastures Hedgerows parish (SM24335) Arable Land Earthworks south of Silchester (SM24335) Iron Age oppidum and Roman town walls/gates in Silchester/Mortimer West End parish (SM24336) Medieval moated sites and associated fishponds, Silchester (SM12062) Iron Age fort earthworks west of former Pond Farm (SM24332) North Wessex Downs ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ English Heritage Listed Parks/Gardens The Vyne (Grade II)
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2. Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath Key Characteristics
• comprises three settlements; • small settlements located along winding lanes interspersed with patches of common; • set within a mixed farmland and woodland landscape with heathland common; • lack of central core; • use of traditional materials - predominantly brick and plain clay tile; • mostly modern residential development; • linear character with cul-de-sac development; • some heath and woodland remains within the built-up areas; • footpath links between housing areas and open spaces/woodland.
Origins and historical development. The first edition OS map shows sporadic development across the area, and subsequent maps show a gradual Tadley is located on the northern boundary of the Borough intensification of development. Since the 1960s there has and County. Like many other parts of North Hampshire, been rapid growth. Initial expansion occurred to house the parish was originally heath and common land. Tadley workers at the Atomic Weapon Research Establishment, was one of a number of small scattered settlements, along Aldermaston, which adjoins Tadley across the county with Baughurst and Pamber Heath. boundary in Berkshire. There are references to woodland in all three villages in Saxon and medieval documents. Although all the villages Landscape setting consist mostly of modern development, there is some evi- dence of early settlement. At Tadley there is an isolated The settlements are set within a mixed farmland and medieval church, while at Baughurst there is a 19th centu- woodland landscape, which provides a strong structure to ry church, which may be on the site of a medieval prede- the south and west of the settlement. The eastern landscape cessor. There is documentary mention of a village at is dominated by woodland, heathland and small-scale Pamber from the 12th century. fields, providing an enclosed and intimate setting. The pattern of settlement and surrounding landscape here comprises small developments located along winding Northern setting and edge: lanes interspersed with patches of common. For example, The County boundary between Berkshire and Hampshire the series of short, irregular plots, which run off the main runs along the northern boundary of Tadley. Large areas of north-south road at the southern end of Tadley, is evidence woodland, bands of tree planting and heath/scrub land cre- of encroachment onto common land. This is thought to ate low/no intervisibility with the settlement and the land- have resulted from tenant evictions in the 17th century. scape to the north. Elsewhere, encroachment is represented by small, irregu- lar shaped fields, including islands on the common. Eastern setting and edge: Many of the inhabitants of old were dependent on woodland crafts for their livelihoods, with villagers pro- The setting to the east of Tadley is contained and defined viding coppiced timber for various uses, including hurdles, by the large areas of tree, scrub and heath of Silchester brooms, baskets, barrels and kindling. There were also Common and Pamber Forest. A narrow ribbon of small brickworks, utilising the local clay. scale, predominantly pasture fields separate the urban edge of Tadley and Pamber Heath from the forest. These are
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enclosed within a strong hedgerow structure, which between landscape and urban form. The edge of the settle- reduces intervisibility between urban form and landscape, ment is fragmented and soft, integrated by tree/woodland allowing the soft rural edge to merge with the urban form. cover. Viewpoints from this urban edge offer important views towards Pamber Forest to the east. Silchester Common Settlement Character abuts directly to the edge of Pamber Heath, allowing tree and scrub growth to soften the linear straight edges of the Some older houses can be found in the original village of settlement. Entrance from the east is relatively gradual, Tadley, which now forms the south-eastern tip of the mod- passing houses to the north, and Silchester Common to the ern development, and at Church Road a little to the west. south, before entering the main body of Pamber Heath. These are mostly of brick with clay tiled roofs, and date from the 17th and 18th centuries. They include the old Southern setting and edge: United Reformed Church of 1718. The overall character of this area is of a small rural settlement, with small proper- To the south, landform typically slopes down to narrow, ties enclosed by their hedged gardens, although there is relatively enclosed stream valleys, before rising again to much modern infilling. the undulating landscape. Fields range from large to small- Church Road is a narrow, hedged country lane with scale, predominantly pasture with a relatively strong occasional old buildings, including the old church of St hedgerow structure, and numerous small, irregular shaped Peter. This is of medieval origin, but now dates mainly woodland copses, creating an intimate and relatively con- from the 17th and 18th centuries. Brick and tile are the tained setting with low intervisibility. A golf course forms main building materials. Hawley Farm and Foxley Farm part of the southern setting, enclosing part of the urban are among other building groups along the lane. edge with dense bands of tree planting. Hedgerows restrict the views along the road. The southern edge of Tadley and Baughurst is relative- Gradual encroachment continued in the 19th and early ly fragmented. To the south-west, large blocks of wood- 20th centuries, but Tadley grew rapidly after World War II. land, and small-scale fields with high hedgerows, create a This was due to the development of Aldermaston airbase soft well integrated edge. To the south-east, the edge is and the establishment of AWRE, just to the north, across slightly harsher, although hedgerow planting does help to the county boundary. From the 1930s, linear development integrate it into the rural landscape. Views from the south took place along most of these lanes, and in the 1950s local -east of Tadley, where vegetation is limited, extend as far authority housing was built between the old village and as Basingstoke to the south, and ridgelines near Church Lane around a village green with a new church. Hannington to the south-west. There are five significant Further local authority housing was built in a series of entrances into Tadley from the south. All of these provide loops off the A340. More concentrated cul-de-sac devel- a relatively gradual transition into the town, with previews opment has taken place since the 1940s, filling in much of of the town, outlying buildings, urban influences, and a the remaining heathland. This housing is of a higher den- gentle merging of landscape features with urban form. sity. Around the central crossroads of Baughurst is some Western setting and edge: looser modern development within well-treed grounds. The setting to the west of Baughurst is defined by a south- A few areas of heath and woodland survive as islands west sloping landform, falling to a tributary stream of the within the residential development, most notably off River Enborne, enclosed by large areas of broadleaf wood- Brimpton Road. Footpath links join housing areas to the land. The predominantly pasture fields, with a strong open spaces. hedgerow structure and large woodland blocks, create an intimate, enclosed landscape with little intervisibility
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Conservation and enhancement priorities Tadley/southern edge of Pamber Heath, retaining its landscape value and public access; • retain the ancient, thick hedges that exist throughout • maintain and enhance prominent woodlands including the Tadley conservation area; Pamber Forest, which surround the settlement and the • retention and management of existing areas of heath- mosaic of small fields and copses to the south; land at Silchester Common, Tadley Common and the • woodland bands that enclose the B3051 and A340 small area to the west of Tadley, to prevent encroach- should be maintained as a valuable screening and eco- ment of invasive scrub and woodland; logical element; • encourage development of heath-associated vegetation • conserve the historic buildings and ensure the contin- along the edges and within the settlements, where ued protection of the conservation areas; appropriate; • ensure design of any new development reflects the • conserve the narrow strip of meadow land/open land character of its surroundings, eg use of traditional between the Pamber Forest and the eastern edge of materials and building styles.
NORTH SHERBORNE
Based on the Ordnance Survey map with the permission of the controller of HMSO c Crown Copyright. Reproduced under licence number 189189 Figure 10: Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath Landscape Setting
LANDSCAPE DESIGN ASSOCIATES JUNE 2001 Page 93 BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT: MAIN REPORT Part 3: Settlements Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath Based on the Ordnance Survey map with the permission the with map Survey Ordnance the on Based of the controller of HMSO c Crown Copyright. Reproduced under licence number 189189 Figure 11: Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath Settlement Character
LANDSCAPE DESIGN ASSOCIATES JUNE 2001 Page 94
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BASINGSTOKE, TADLEY AND BRAMLEY LANDSCAPE CAPACITY STUDY
FEBRUARY 2008
BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL
Landscape Capacity Study – Final Assessment
Area: TADLEY Local Character Area: TA04 – Bishopswood Golf Course Slopes It should be noted that the overall assessment given to any area does not mean that the assessment applies to the whole area – it may apply to one part of it. Further detailed assessment of the areas will be required as part of the next stage of the development of the Local Development Framework.
SUMMARY OF OVERALL LANDSCAPE CAPACITY
Landscape Capacity of Area: MEDIUM
This is a modified landscape which has only localised impacts on the adjacent area. There is the potential for mitigation within this area which would have limited impact on the character. There is the potential for development here although its layout would need to take into account the more elevated parts of the area and would be limited to the southern part of the area.
The northern end of the area provides physical separation between Baughurst and Tadley and therefore it would be essential to retain this buffer.
Landscape Sensitivity: (Low, Low/Medium, Medium, Medium/High or High)
Natural Factors: L L/M MM/HH Cultural Factors: L L/M M M/H H Landscape Quality and Condition: L L/M M M/H H Aesthetic Factors: L L/M M M/H H OVERALL Medium Summary of Characteristics This area slopes noticeably from north to south towards Church Brook beyond the site. Vegetation comprises a variety of deciduous and coniferous species planted to define fairways. Tall hedgerows and trees define the boundary of the golf course and driving range. A golf course and practice range along with associated clubhouse and buildings occupy much of the area. There is a small area of arable farmland and some small paddocks in the north-west corner. Footpaths cross the south-western corner of the golf course and the north-western corner. There are few features within this area that are typical of the wider character area and any remnants of the original landscape are non-existent. The golf course is in a good state of repair, however the paddocks are less well managed. The nature of golf courses and the vegetation around the small paddocks mean that this is a generally enclosed landscape. The paddocks are locally distinctive and contribute to the overall character of the area. The elevated nature of the landform means that in some locations it has a prominent skyline.
Visual Sensitivity: (Low, Low/Medium, Medium, Medium/High or High)
General Visibility: L L/M MM/HH Population: L L/M MM/HH Mitigation Potential: L L/M M M/H H OVERALL Medium Summary of Characteristics The nature of the planting within and surrounding the golf course and practice range limits intervisibility and views are naturally trained along fairways. Intervisibility is also limited within the paddocks. Within the area of farmland, views are longer-distance and this area provides some of the visual setting to Tadley and provides visual separation with Baughurst. Most views are limited to those playing golf along with some of the residential dwellings facing onto the course.
77 The wooded nature of the course and the paddocks mean that there is potential to reinforce the vegetation pattern, although this could be less effective on the higher ground.
Landscape Value: (Low, Low/Medium, Medium, Medium/High or High)
Designations: L L/M M M/H H Perceptual Aspects: L L/M M M/H H Settlement Edge: L L/M M M/H H Local Associations: L L/M MM/HH OVERALL Medium
Summary of Characteristics The only designation in the area is a listed building along the northern boundary. The nature of the character area along with the proximity of Bishopswood Road and the settlement edge, limit any sense of tranquillity. The golf course is a manicured landscape and as such does provide some scenic beauty. The vegetation within the golf course limits any contribution that this site makes to the settlement edge, except for a short length on the higher northern edge of the course and within the area of farmland which are more open. The narrow part of the character area in the north-west corner provides an important buffer between Baughurst and Tadley and would need to be retained to prevent coalescence of the two settlements.
78 102
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BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE LANDSCAPE CAPACITY STUDY 2010: SITE OPTIONS – EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1. Purpose of the study This report has been produced to inform the evidence base for the Basingstoke and Deane Local Development Framework by assessing the relative capacity of the landscape to accommodate development at specific sites in Basingstoke and its surrounding villages. It follows a broader capacity study carried out by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in 2008 which examined the possible impacts of development upon areas immediately surrounding Basingstoke, Bramley and Tadley, without assessing specific sites. These were identified for possible development by the council’s Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (2008).
The capacity of each site has been awarded by testing the results of each assessment against the following classifications:
Low capacity – The landscape character area could not accommodate areas of new development without a significant and adverse impact on the landscape character. Occasional, very small scale development may be possible, providing it has regard to the setting and form of existing settlement and the character and the sensitivity of adjacent landscape character areas.
Low/ Medium capacity – A minimal amount of development could be accommodated only in limited situations, providing it has regard to the setting and form of existing settlement and the character and the sensitivity of adjacent landscape character areas.
Medium capacity - The landscape character area could be able to accommodate areas of new development in some parts, providing it has regard to the setting and form of existing settlement and the character and sensitivity of adjacent landscape character areas. There are landscape constraints and therefore the key landscape and visual characteristics must be retained and enhanced.
Medium/ High capacity – The area is able to accommodate larger amounts of development, providing it has regard to the setting and form of existing settlement and the character and the sensitivity of adjacent landscape character areas. Certain landscape and visual features in the area may require protection.
High capacity – Much of the area is able accommodate significant areas of development, providing it has regard to the setting and form of existing settlement and the character and the sensitivity of adjacent landscape character areas.
1.2. Summary of methodology Capacity of the landscape can also be described as sensitivity to change. As in current best practice, sensitivity was assessed against a specific change, and for this study, a development scenario of 60% residential development, with 40% open space, based on a net density of 40 residential dwellings per hectare, with dwellings of two or three storeys was assumed for each site as a guide against which sensitivity has been assessed.
THE TERRA FIRMA CONSULTANCY LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL KIRKHAM LANDSCAPE PLANNING LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE LANDSCAPE CAPACITY STUDY 2010: SITE OPTIONS – TAD 018 189
SITE TAD 018 Site map:
Site TAD 018: Medium/High capacity
THE TERRA FIRMA CONSULTANCY LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL KIRKHAM LANDSCAPE PLANNING LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE LANDSCAPE CAPACITY STUDY 2010: SITE OPTIONS – TAD 018 190
Site description: TAD 018 is an area on the southern edge of Tadley and north of Baughurst consisting of several pasture fields with Bishopswood Stream forming much of the western boundary, with its associated linear belt of trees. The area is bounded to the northern and southern boundaries by gappy hedgerows, with a residential property to the north-west and a public footpath with a double row of mature trees creating part of the western boundary south of the house and garden. A stronger belt of mature trees forms the eastern boundary, along Bishopswood Lane towards the golf driving range which abuts the area to the south.
Key landscape planning factors: At present Bishopswood Lane and Bishopswood golf course create a strong edge to Tadley. Where Tadley merges into the north of Baughurst, the separation between settlements is unclear and the eastern edge of Baughurst (east of Baughurst Road) is less strong.
The area is part of the wider Bishopswood Golf Course Slopes character area (TA04), with largely flat landform, small field patterns, gappy boundary hedges and trees along Bishopswood Stream. It is an intimate landscape with a good sense of enclosure with tranquillity interrupted by busy Bishopswood Lane. The area has some intervisibility with TAD027. The site is not designated for its landscape value but has been identified as important buffer between the two settlements.
Development would reduce the separation between Tadley and Baughurst.
Photo 1: View south from Bishopswood Lane, with stream vegetation centre and left. Photo 2: View east onto site from PRoW, across garden.
THE TERRA FIRMA CONSULTANCY LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL KIRKHAM LANDSCAPE PLANNING LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE LANDSCAPE CAPACITY STUDY 2010: SITE OPTIONS – TAD 018 191
Photo 3: View north west through boundary trees from Bishopswood Lane. Photo 4: View south west across site, with long views towards distant high ground.
Please refer to page 2 of the Executive Summary for a summary of the assessment process
1. Medium/Low Visual Sensitivity: • Visually enclosed; • Glimpsed views southwards; • Long views south west to high ground; • Limited receptors; • Some scope for mitigation without damage to character.
2. Medium/Low Landscape Sensitivity: • Sense of tranquillity spoilt by busy road; • Intimate landscape; • Many landscape features of interest.
3. Landscape Character Sensitivity: Medium/Low (combines 1 and 2)
4. Medium/High Wider Landscape Sensitivity:
THE TERRA FIRMA CONSULTANCY LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL KIRKHAM LANDSCAPE PLANNING LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE LANDSCAPE CAPACITY STUDY 2010: SITE OPTIONS – TAD 018 192
• Adjacent to busy road; • Some views of neighbouring / nearby houses; • Visual links with wider landscape to south; • Part of the open landscape between Tadley and Baughurst.
5. Overall Landscape Sensitivity: Medium (combines 3 and 4)
6. Medium / Low Landscape Value • No designations; • Locally valued.
7. Landscape Capacity: Medium/High (combines 5 and 6)
RECOMMENDATIONS AND COMMENTS: Landscape capacity is higher than the LCS 2008 assessment as the area forms only a part of the wider landscape character area, not including the golf course, and relates more to the edge of Tadley. The form of any development would need to be carefully considered to respect the existing landscape features, which would need to be retained and could be enhanced as linear habitats. An opportunity should be sought through the design and layout to retain a long view to the high ground to the south west.
Development on the site should be in keeping with the character of Tadley to reinforce the separate identity of the two settlements. (See also recommendations for TAD 17).
THE TERRA FIRMA CONSULTANCY LTD. BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL KIRKHAM LANDSCAPE PLANNING LTD. Appendix D
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APPENDIX D: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)
Landscape Receptor and Judged Sensitivity of Judged Magnitude of Description/ Notes Overall Overall Overall Reference Landscape Landscape Effect Effect at Effect upon Effect at 10 Construction Completion Years post Phase Completion
Susceptibility Landscape Scale or Size of the Where Major Major Major to Change Value Degree of Change applicable, Moderate Moderate Moderate including degree of are the Minor Minor Minor contrast/integration) Effects Negligible Negligible Negligible at Stages of Project Reversible? None None None
High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None
National Landscape
Character
Medium Medium Construction: No Negligible Negligible Thames Basin and Heath The Character Area covers a large area of the landscape. The Site lies within the LCA. The proposed Negligible Negligible (NCA) development would lie within the setting of the settlement edge area and would be observed as modest Completion: additional urban element within this context. There would be a localised initial adverse landscape effects as a Negligible result in the loss of agricultural land and the change from agriculture to urban development. The GI Year 10: Negligible framework includes the retention Site vegetation and additional habitat creation. The GI will provide some
landscape benefits in the longer term. The proposed development would have no discernible effects upon the wider landscape of the Thames Basin and Heath character area.
Landscape Character Assessment (LCA): County/District
Construction: Minor Adverse Negligible Hampshire County Integrated The Site lies within the Pamber and Tadley Plantations and Heath Character Area within the assessment. Minor Adverse Medium-low Character Assessment (May This character area is relatively extensive and incorporates the whole of the urban area of Tadley. The Completion: Medium- 2012): proposed development would be observed as modest additional urban element within this context It is low considered that there would be no significant adverse landscape effects upon the Character Area. Year 10: Low
Pamber and Tadley Plantations Medium Medium and Heath
Construction: Medium Minor Adverse Negligible Basingstoke and Deane The Site forms a relatively small proportion of the North Sherborne Character Area. The Site’s landscape Minor Adverse Completion: Medium Borough Council Landscape character is also influenced by its relationship with the urban edge of Tadley. The Site is well contained by Year 10: Low Assessment (June 2001): existing vegetation and the proposed development in modest in scale. It is considered that there would be no
significant adverse landscape effects upon the Character Area.
Medium North Sherborne Medium
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APPENDIX D: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)
Landscape Receptor and Judged Sensitivity of Judged Magnitude of Description/ Notes Overall Overall Overall Reference Landscape Landscape Effect Effect at Effect upon Effect at 10 Construction Completion Years post Phase Completion
Susceptibility Landscape Scale or Size of the Where Major Major Major to Change Value Degree of Change applicable, Moderate Moderate Moderate including degree of are the Minor Minor Minor contrast/integration) Effects Negligible Negligible Negligible at Stages of Project Reversible? None None None
High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None
Medium-Low Construction: Low No Land to the north east and west of the Site falls within the Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath settlement as Negligible Negligible Basingstoke and Deane Low Negligible Completion: Low identified in the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council landscape Character Assessment. The assessment Borough Council Landscape Year 10: Low describes the area as containing ‘mostly modern residential development’, the proposed development would Assessment (June 2001): therefore not be uncharacteristic of the adjacent settlement area. In addition, the scheme will use relevant design guidance e.g. The Tadley Design Statement 2004, to guide the form and layout of the proposals and Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber will reflect local vernacular designs wherever possible. Effects on the ‘Tadley/Baughurst/Pamber Heath’ are Heath considered to be negligible.
Landscape Character: Site and Immediate Context
Medium Medium-Low Construction: High No The Site lies on the eastern edge of Tadley and comprises of 9 well contained fields. The Site is influenced Moderate Moderate Minor Adverse Site and Immediate Context Completion: High by the urban edge of Tadley and Bishopswood Lane. Whilst the proposed development would significantly Adverse Adverse Year 10: Medium alter the existing landscape character of the Site, this will be limited to east of the Site, the north western fields will become ecological areas and a potential village green. There would be a localised initial adverse landscape effects as a result in the loss of agricultural land and the change from agriculture to urban development. The GI framework includes the retention of a majority of Site vegetation and additional habitat creation. The GI will provide some landscape benefits in the longer term.
Site Landscape Features/
Characteristics
Low-medium Low Construction: Low No The Proposed Development would not result in any unacceptable changes to the existing landform of the Negligible Negligible Site Landscape Features Negligible Landform Completion: Low Site. Some localised changes would be necessary, for example in creating the attenuation basin and Year 10: Low vehicular access roads, but these would be sympathetically designed and would not adversely affect the
landform of the Site. No discernible changes are envisaged across the remaining landscape areas.
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APPENDIX D: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)
Landscape Receptor and Judged Sensitivity of Judged Magnitude of Description/ Notes Overall Overall Overall Reference Landscape Landscape Effect Effect at Effect upon Effect at 10 Construction Completion Years post Phase Completion
Susceptibility Landscape Scale or Size of the Where Major Major Major to Change Value Degree of Change applicable, Moderate Moderate Moderate including degree of are the Minor Minor Minor contrast/integration) Effects Negligible Negligible Negligible at Stages of Project Reversible? None None None
High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None
Medium Medium Construction: Low No Mature trees groups are important landscape features within the Site. With the exception of some limited Minor Adverse Negligible Minor Site Landscape Features Woodland, Trees, Hedgerows Completion: Low removal of vegetation to create the main vehicular access into and through the Site and for arboriculture beneficial and Vegetation Year 10: Medium requirements, all of the existing vegetation along the Site boundaries and field boundaries would be retained as an integral part of the proposals. The green infrastructure would include new tree and shrub planting as well as areas of grassland which would improve the overall age, structure and diversity of vegetation and provide localised benefits overall.
Medium Medium Construction: No The proposed attenuation basins would form part of a larger Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) providing Negligible Negligible Minor Site Landscape Features Water Features and Negligible landscape, amenity and biodiversity value further benefitting the landscape. Bishop’s Wood Stream and beneficial Watercourses Completion: Low existing ditches within the Site will be retained and will form part of the proposed green corridors, which run Year 10: Low through the Site, the two existing ponds will also be retained as part of these corridors.
Medium Medium Construction: High No The majority of the physical landscape resource lost would be open grassland of relatively low ecological Moderate Moderate Minor Adverse Site Landscape Features Land Use and Open Space Completion: High value. The designated SINCs within the Site will be retained and managed as part of the proposals. Adverse Adverse Year 10: Medium-
High
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APPENDIX E: VISUAL EFFECTS TABLE (VET)
Ref Receptor Type Judged Sensitivity Judged Magnitude of Visual Effects Description/ Notes Overall Overall Overall and Location of Visual Receptor Effect at Effect upon Effect 10 Construction Completion Years post
Phase Completion
Susceptibi Value Distance from Nature Is the View Size/Scale of Visual Major Major Major lity to Site Boundary of View Permanent or Effect (incl. degree Moderate Moderate Moderate Change (or Built Transient? of contrast/ Minor Minor Minor Development integration) (at Negligible Negligible Negligible where stated) Stages of Project) None None None (approx. m/km) High High Full High Adverse or Adverse or Adverse or Medium Medium Partial Medium Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Glimpse Low None Negligible/ None
Properties on Medium Medium 100m Partial Permanent Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Views of proposed dwellings from this section of Bishopswood Lane will be 1 Bishopswood Lane Construction: Low - /Negligible /Negligible /Negligible (to the north west of prevented by existing properties along Bishopwood Lane. There is potential none the site) for glimpsed views of rooftops/upper storey of proposed dwellings from Completion: Low - existing properties off Bishopswood Lane. These will be set back beyond extensive GI proposed in the north west of the Site and screened and filtered none by existing intervening vegetation including along field boundaries within the Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Low None Transient Year 10: Low - none Site. None None None users of Bishopswood Lane
Properties on Medium Medium 10m Glimpse Permanent Negligible Negligible This viewpoint represents vehicular/pedestrian users and residences of Negligible 2 Sheridan Crescent (to – None Construction: the north of the site) Sheridan Crescent to the north of the Site. The view is also representative of Negligible/None a view identified as an important view in the Baughurst and Wolverton Village Completion: Design Statement. From this viewpoint there will be views across the Negligible Negligible proposed GI in the north west of the Site which will be seen beyond the Negligible Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Low Glimpse Transient Negligible/None users of Sheridan – None vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary. Vegetation along field Crescent Year 10: boundaries within the Site will screen views of proposed properties situated Negligible/None to the south east. Properties off Sheridan Crescent will also benefit from the screening effect of existing mature trees to the north of Bishopswood Lane. Important view in the Medium High Glimpse - Transient Negligible Negligible Negligible Baughurst and None Wolverton Village Design Statement. Properties on Medium Medium 60m Glimpse - Permanent Minor adverse Minor Adverse Minor Adverse From this section of Bishopswood Lane there is potential for glimpsed views 3 Bishopswood Lane Partial Construction: Low (Moderate (Moderate (Moderate (to the north of the of the proposed 3 storey retirement dwellings which will be situated in the adverse for adverse for adverse for Completion: Low site) north of the Site. The five existing properties off Bishopswood Lane to the ‘Stoney Croft’) ‘Stoney Croft’) ‘Stoney Croft’) Year 10: Low north of the Site (including Grade II listed ‘St. John’s’) benefit from being set within a landscape of mature trees. There is potential for glimpsed – partial of Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Medium Glimpse Transient proposed dwellings from the existing properties. Views of the proposals from users of Bishopswood ‘Stoney Croft’ located adjacent to the proposed retirement dwellings will be Negligible Negligible Negligible Lane more readily available with potential views from ground floor windows at the side of the property.
Medium Medium 10m Full Transient Moderate Moderate Moderate / Vehicular/pedestrian There will be close range views of proposed retirement dwellings from this 4 Construction: High adverse adverse Minor adverse users of Bishopswood viewpoint seen beyond the existing roadside vegetation. The majority of Lane Completion: High vegetation seen in the view will be retained, a small section of the field Year 10: High boundary within the Site seen to the left of the view will be removed to enable the necessary visibility splays for the Site access. Effects will be mitigated as street trees and landscaping within the development matures.
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Properties on Inhurst High Medium 45m Partial Permanent Minor adverse Minor adverse From this viewpoint there will be a partial view of proposed dwellings Minor adverse 5 Way Construction: (to the north of the including proposed retirement dwellings in the north of the Site. These will be Medium/low site) available where a gap in the mature tree belt along Bishopswood Lane Completion: allows. Partial-glimpsed views of proposed dwellings will be available from a limited number of dwellings off Inhurst Way with existing vegetation acting to Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Medium Transient Medium/low users of Inhurst Way screen and filter views from much of the road. The majority of vegetation Year 10: Medium/low seen in the view will be retained, a small section of the field boundary within the Site seen to the left of the view will be removed to enable the necessary visibility splays for the Site access. Properties on Medium Medium 85m Glimpse - Permanent Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Minor Adverse From this viewpoint there will be glimpsed – partial views of proposed 6 Whitedown Road Partial Construction: Low /Negligible /Negligible /Negligible (to the north of the dwellings, these will be screened and filtered by the existing belt of mature Completion: Low site) trees to the north of Bishopswood Lane. Houses along Whitedown Road are Year 10: Low not generally orientated towards the Site, further reducing the potential Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Low Glimpse - Transient effects. Minor adverse Minor adverse Minor adverse users of Whitedown Partial Road
20m Partial Transient Minor adverse Minor Adverse Vehicular/pedestrian Medium There will be partial views of proposed dwellings from this viewpoint. These Minor adverse 7 Medium Construction: Medium /Negligible users of Bishopswood will be set back beyond a proposed landscape buffer and open space Lane Completion: Medium adjacent to the Site’s south eastern boundary and filtered by existing Year 10: Low vegetation along Bishopswood Lane. Effects will be mitigated as proposed tree planting within the landscape buffer matures.
Properties on N/A N/A Within site N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A The viewpoint demonstrates the screening provided by the mature vegetation 8 Bishopswood Lane Construction: N/A (to the north of the along the Site’s boundary, which prevents views to the existing properties Completion: N/A site) located beyond. There is potential for glimpsed views of new dwellings seen Year 10: N/A from the upper storey of existing dwellings off Bishopswood Lane, these will be filtered by the existing trees.
Properties on N/A N/A Within site N/A N/A N/A N/A This viewpoint is taken from within the north eastern portion of the Site and N/A 9 Blackthorn Close Construction: N/A (to the north of the looks south west towards the Site’s western boundary and PROW ‘Baughurst Completion: N/A site) 49’ situated adjacent to the boundary. Mature trees can be seen lining the Year 10: N/A Site’s western boundary, a gap in the vegetation allows for partial views of properties off Blackthorn Close. This viewpoint demonstrates the screening effect provided by vegetation along the Site’s western boundary. The north western fields of the Site (from where this viewpoint is taken) are not proposed from development and will instead form part of the development’s proposed GI. Properties on Medium Medium 45m Glimpse Permanent Existing properties off Blackthorn Close prevent views of the Site from the Negligible Negligible Negligible 10 Blackthorn Close (to Construction: Low - road. From within properties on Blackthorn there will be glimpsed views of the west of the site) proposed open space situated in the northwest of the Site. Proposed none dwellings will be situated beyond the proposed open and will be screened by Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Low None Transient Completion: Low - field boundary vegetation within the Site. None None None users of Blackthorn none Close Year 10: Low - none
PROW Baughurst 49 Medium Medium 15m Glimpse Transient There will be views of the proposed ecological area within the Site filtered by Negligible Negligible Negligible 11 Construction: Low - the dense vegetation which runs adjacent to the PROW. Mature trees along Bishopswood Stream within the Site restrict views beyond, there is potential none for glimpsed views of the upper storeys of proposed dwellings seen beyond Completion: Low - this vegetation. none Year 10: Low - none
PROW Baughurst 49 Medium Medium 190m Glimpse - Transient From this viewpoint there will be glimpsed – partial views of proposed Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Minor Adverse 12 partial Construction: Low dwellings particularly in north eastern part of the Site where slightly raised landform within the Site will allow a clearer view. Potential views of proposed Completion: Low dwellings will however, be well screened/filtered by vegetation along the Year 10: Low Site’s southern boundary. This viewpoint is taken from a field gateway where there is a clearer view of the Site than along much of the route of the PROW where mature vegetation adjacent to the PROW will further filter views.
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Properties on Medium Medium 255m Glimpse Permanent Taken from near where PROW ‘Baughurst 49’ adjoins Baughurst Road. Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Minor Adverse 13 Baughurst Lane (to Construction: Low Views of proposed dwellings from Baughurst Road will be screened by /negligible /negligible /negligible the west of the site) vegetation along the Site’s southern boundary. There is potential for Completion: Low glimpsed views of proposed dwellings from the rear of existing properties off Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Medium Transient Year 10: Low Baughurst Road, these will be filtered by mature intervening vegetation users of Baughurst including along PROW 49. Negligible Negligible Negligible Lane Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Medium 370m None Transient None None None Roadside hedgerow including a number of mature trees restricts views 14 users of Baughurst Construction: None Lane beyond. Completion: None Year 10: None
PROW Tadley 8 High Medium 350m Glimpse Transient Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Minor Adverse From this viewpoint there will be glimpsed – partial views of proposed 15 – partial Construction: Medium dwellings the particularly in the north eastern part of the Site where slightly Completion: Low raised landform within the Site will allow a clearer view. Views of proposed Year 10: Low dwellings will however, be well screened/filtered by vegetation along the Site’s southern boundary.
Users of Medium Medium 290m Full- Transient Moderate/Minor Moderate/Minor Minor Adverse Dense mature vegetation along Bishopswood lane will prevent views of 16 Bishopswood Lane partial Construction: High Adverse Adverse Golf Course (driving proposed dwellings from this viewpoint. The combination of vegetation and Completion: High range) the orientation of the building will also prevent views from the Golf Course Year 10: Medium Club House situated to the east of Bishopswood Lane. From the driving range there will be views available of the proposed dwellings in the south
east of the Site, these will be seen beyond the row of existing chestnut trees Users of Medium Medium None Transient Construction: None and fencing which marks the Site’s boundary with the driving range. The None None None proposed dwellings will also be set back beyond a proposed landscape Bishopswood Lane Completion: None Golf Course (Club buffer situated along the Site’s south eastern boundary. The effects upon the House) Year 10: None driving range will be mitigated as proposed tree planting within the landscape buffer matures.
Vehicular/pedestrian Medium Medium None Transient Construction: None None None None users of Bishopswood Completion: None Lane Year 10: None
PROW Tadley 9 High- Medium 425m None Transient None None Intervening vegetation including mature vegetation along the boundary None 17 medium Construction: None between the Golf Course and Bishopswood Lane prevents views of the Site. Completion: None Users of None Transient Bishopswood Lane Medium Year 10: None Golf Course PROW Tadley 10 High Medium 700m None Transient None None None Existing mature trees obscure any potential views of the Site. 18 Construction: None Completion: None Year 10: None PROW Baughurst 11 High Medium 510m None Transient None None None Views of the Site are prevented by intervening vegetation. 19 Construction: None Completion: None Year 10: None PROW Baughurst 11 High Medium 860m None Transient None None None A combination of the local topograpghy and existing vegetation including 20 Construction: None dense tree planting at Great Copse prevents views of the Site. Completion: None
Year 10: None PROW Baughurst 7 High Medium 960m None Transient None None None Views to the Site are prevented by intervening vegetation. 21 Construction: None Completion: None Year 10: None PROW Baughurst 21 High Medium 1.5km None Transient None None None Views towards the Site are prevented by a combination of the local 22 Construction: None topography and intervening vegetation. Completion: None
Year 10: None
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