Report Template

Landscape and Visual Assessment LAND AT OAKS LANE, POSTWICK NCH Construction Ltd

March 2018

Prepared by: Mark Flatman

Position: Director

Qualifications: CMLI,Chartered Landscape Architecture

File name: 2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx

Status: FINAL

Date issued: 23rd March 2018

Landscape and Visual Assessment: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

CONTENTS

3.1 Context 3

3.2 Published Landscape Character Assessments 3

3.3 Contribution to Local Landscape Character 11

3.4 Statutory and Non-Statutory Designations 12

3.5 Relevant Planning Applications 13

3.6 Landscape Resource 14

3.7 Visual Resource 15

4.1 General Principles 17

4.2 Proposal 18

4.3 Approach to Mitigation 18

5.1 Identifying the likely Landscape Effects 20

5.2 Susceptibility 20

5.3 Likely Landscape Effects 20

6.1 Identifying the Visual Effects 22

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6.2 Likely Visual Effects 23

6.3 Identification of Likely Visual Effects 23

APPENDICES:

APPENDIX A FIGURES 1-7

APPENDIX B PUBLISHED LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENTS

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INTRODUCTION

1.1.1 This Landscape and Visual Assessment (LVA) has been prepared by Liz Lake Associates on behalf of NCH Construction Ltd to address the landscape and visual issues relevant to land at Oaks Lane, Postwick (the Site). The Site is located immediately to the north of the village of Postwick. It is accessed via Oaks Lane to the west of the Site. Adjacent to the northern boundary is the A1042 and to the east is the new sewage works. The Site is situated in a landscape where there are a number of new developments at various stages.

1.1.2 The principal objective of the assessment is to identify the landscape and visual issues of the potential development site and to identify the likely landscape and visual effects of the proposed development and to assess the significance of those effects.

1.1.3 The report considers the existing baseline conditions and seeks to identify the relevant landscape and visual issues applicable to the Site. A Landscape and Visual Assessment (LVA) has been undertaken to assess the likely effects upon the landscape resource, specific views and visual amenity.

1.1.4 An initial site visit was undertaken in October 2017 to review and appraise the context and surroundings. The assessment was made by a Chartered Landscape Architect once the proposals had been sufficiently developed. The weather was overcast with cloud cover. Visibility was moderate.

1.1.5 All photographs were taken with a digital camera, a Canon EOS 400D with a 30mm fixed lens. The 30mm lens is the digital equivalent to a standard 50mm focal length lens with a single lens reflex camera.

1.1.6 Liz Lake Associates is a multi-disciplinary environmental and design consultancy with over 30 years’ experience of master planning, landscape, ecology, urban design, heritage and environmental impact assessment. The company is a registered practice of the Landscape Institute.

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METHODOLOGY

2.1.1 An LVA of the Site and the development proposals has been prepared, encompassing the ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ (GLVIA) 3rd edition (published by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment 2013), and ‘Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland’ (published by the Countryside Agency and Scottish National Heritage 2002). In summary, the approach combines information and desktop reviews with on-site surveys and appraisal.

2.1.2 The Site based assessment involves the recording of both objective description and subjective impressions of the landscape, as well as details of the existing landscape condition. It includes an assessment of the extent and nature of views to and from the Site and the type of receptors that experience these views.

2.1.3 The following relevant studies and documents have been considered as part of the desk based review and subsequent assessment:

• Natural England – National Character Areas (2014)

• Broadland District Council Landscape Character Assessment (2013)

2.1.4 The landscape and visual assessment of the proposed development has been based upon the proposals illustrated on a drawing prepared by JMP Architects Ltd and Liz Lake Associates, as follows:

• Proposed Site Plan SK01 – JMP Architects

• Proposed Landscape Strategy – Liz Lake Associates

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EXISTING SITUATION

3.1 Context

3.1.1 The Site is located immediately to the north of Postwick, which is a small village lying to the east of Norwich. Oaks Lane connects the village of Postwick to the A47 Norwich Southern Bypass (NSB) and the A1042 (leading into Norwich via Thorpe St Andrew).

3.1.2 The Site is situated within a wider area that has undergone a series of significant landscape changes over the last few years with major infrastructure development around the Postwick junction on the A47 (the Norwich Southern Bypass), along with the creation of a Park and Ride facility and new developments such as Broadland Business Park, as the edge of Norwich has expanded eastwards. Further allocation of land indicates that more changes will take place. There are currently major changes taking place with the construction of the new Northern Distributor Road (NDR).

3.1.3 South of the A47 the landscape becomes more rural with agricultural fields quickly giving way to smaller villages such as Postwick, with grazing marsh in the winding ribbon of the Yare River corridor (The Broads National Park) approximately 0.5km from the Site.

3.1.4 The Site forms part of a transitional band of land between the wooded estatelands and the marshy valley fringes sloping south towards the valley floor. Beyond the railway line the landform slopes more gently around the village of Postwick and The Broads.

3.2 Published Landscape Character Assessments

3.2.1 A brief summary of the published landscape character assessments in the context of the Site is detailed below.

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National Character Area:

3.2.2 The site straddles two National Character Area (NCA) profiles; NCA78: Central North Norfolk and NCA80: The Broads as defined by Natural England. NCA 78 follows the Norfolk coastline from Mundesley to Sheringham before heading west in land just above Fakenham, the character area follows a sinuous line and covers the northern half of Norwich before the boundary passes through Aylsham and North Walsham. NCA 80 covers the whole of the Broads National Park. Due to the Site being located within the two character areas, it is useful to review both to gain a full understanding of the landscape area.

NCA 78: Central North Norfolk

3.2.3 The key Characteristics of NCA 78 relevant to the Site include:

• “A gently undulating, sometimes flat, landscape dissected by river valleys, with the glacial landform of the Cromer Ridge and dramatic coastal cliffs providing distinctive features to the north.

• Tranquil agricultural landscape with extensive areas of arable land, dominated by cereals with break-cropping of sugar beet and oilseed rape, and some pastures along valley floors.

• Ancient countryside, much of it enclosed by the 16th century, with a sporadically rationalised patchwork field system, sinuous lanes and mixed hedges with hedgerow oaks.

• Large number of 18th-century estates with their associated parkland, and a great density and stylistic variety of churches, which are often prominent features of the skyline.

• Coherent vernacular architecture – marked by distinctive red brick and flint buildings with pantiled roofs, much dating from the 17th and 18th centuries with some earlier timber frame – is an inherent component of the area’s character.

• A mix of villages and many farmhouses within a complex minor road network, with a traditional pattern of market towns connected by main roads, the coastal holiday

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resorts of Cromer and Sheringham, and the city of Norwich providing a centre for cultural and economic activity.

• Dense network of public rights of way including the Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, with main recreational activity centred on coastal areas.”1

NCA 80: The Broads

3.2.4 The key characteristics of the area relevant to this site include:

• “The landscape is low-lying with some areas below sea level and has characteristic open, extensive views over slow meandering rivers, drained marshland and coastal plain in the lower valley flood plain. Views inland are framed by the tree- lined valley ridge lines.

• The middle, upper and narrow incised side valley tributaries are small-scale, low and enclosed, often supporting woodland.

• Rivers dominate the landscape with the middle and lower river reaches flowing between flood banks, above the level of the surrounding land which is drained by dykes, ditches and pumps.

• Woodland cover is generally sparse, especially in the marshland area. Small areas of mainly deciduous woodland occur around the broads. Carr woodland and willow pollards are typical of the wetter areas, while broadleaved woodland is present as copses and plantations on higher land.

• Glacial deposits of outwash gravels and till are in many places overlain by peaty, loamy and clayey flood plain alluvial soils. Where drainage has been carried out, the fertile soils support arable production while in the wetter areas grazing marsh is common.

1 National Character Area 78. Natural England. 2014. P6

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• Field patterns are principally defined by drainage over most of the Broads. Regular 18th and 19th-century enclosure fields (generally marshland) are clearly defined by straight, reed-fringed drainage ditches that form a strongly geometric layout across the lower flood plain. Some earlier curvilinear enclosure of marshland also survives.

• Much of the Broads is remote and isolated with settlements clustering on higher ground inland, linked by the few roads that run along the valley sides. Isolated farmhouses are the most significant buildings in the marshes.

• Vertical features are very distinctive in this generally flat landscape and include some very fine medieval churches on the higher ground and several traditional drainage mills located on embankments flanking some of the drainage channels on the marshes and coastal plain.

• Traditional buildings make use of flint, pebble and brick walls, with pantiles and rare surviving reed thatch.

• Three railway lines cross the Broads area, serving a number of smaller settlements between Norwich, Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft.”2

District Character Assessments:

Broadland District LCA

3.2.5 The site lies with the Landscape Typology, F: Marshes Fringe and within the Landscape Character Area, LCA F3: Reedham to Thorpe as defined in the Broadland District Council Landscape Character Assessment.

3.2.6 Key characteristics of F: Marshes Fringe relevant to this site include:

• “Forms the transition zone between the elevated plateau edge and marshes which line the Broads river valleys

2 National Character Area 80. Natural England. 2014. P8-9

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• Gently sloping landscape which generally slopes up to the 10m contour, from lower-lying flat landscapes of the Broads

• Small copses of woodland are dotted along the slopes (particularly where these slopes are steeper)

• Settlement pattern consists of a series of small, often historic settlements with a strong vernacular character, which sit on the edge of the higher plateau land, at the edges of the slopes

• These settlements often have a closely linked historical relationship with exploitation of the adjacent marshes and Broads

3 • In places, open views across the marshes and Broads can also be gained.

3.2.7 The District LCA describes the Historic Environment Character as follows;

• “Settlement pattern consists of a series of dispersed, small to large nucleated, often historic settlements with a strong vernacular character, which sit on the edge of the higher plateau land, at the edges of the slopes. The settlement pattern was established early and certainly by the Medieval period. Within settlements, traditional buildings cluster together around a strong historic core. Some settlements contain groups of modern houses and bungalows, located on infill sites within the settlement core. Settlements often have a closely linked historical relationship with exploitation of the adjacent marshes and Broads. Traditional buildings in villages are generally made of red brick and flint.”4

3.2.8 The landscape condition and strength of character identified for landscape type F relevant to the Site is noted as;

• “This Landscape Character Type has a gently strong and distinctly recognisable sense of place throughout, even though built structures are discrete, other than small villages which nestle on the edges of the marshes. Overall condition of

3 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P97 4 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P98

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elements within the types is considered to be good, with evidence of gappy hedgerows confined to a few, discrete locations.”5

3.2.9 The Management Strategies and Objective of relevance to the Site for Landscape Type F: Marshes Fringe are;

• “Seek to conserve and enhance the landscape structure within the area, including block and belts of woodland, copses of mature trees, mature parkland trees and intact hedgerow;”

3.2.10 LCA F3, Reedham to Thorpe is defined by the 10m AOD contour forming a fringe to the flat and low landscape of the Broads, and following the partially wooded slopes of the River Yare.

3.2.11 The Broadland District Council’s Landscape Character Assessment describes LCA F3 as follows;

• “Land use within the area is strongly influenced by adjacent agricultural land to the north and the Broads. The land is almost exclusively in arable cultivation, interspersed with pockets of pasture in places, forming a continuation of plateau and tributary farmland for the west. The hedgerow structure within the area has been substantially fragmented. Remnant hedge boundaries and mature isolated hedgerow trees assume greater significant in views across arable fields.” 6

3.2.12 The Broadland District LCA Evaluation of LCA F3 identifies the following Sensitivities;

3.2.13 The Inherent Landscape Sensitivities for LCA F3 are;

• ”Mosaic of arable fields, pockets of pasture and woodland, providing a diverse and interesting landscape character

• Mature landscape structure including substantial blocks and belts of carr woodland, copses of mature trees and intact hedgerows, providing an interesting visual mosaic

5 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P99 6 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P97

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• Subtle features of the historic landscape, such as remnant hedgerows, which are not protected, and are vulnerable to change and loss

• Landscape setting of historic houses, halls and churches

• Sparse settlement in the form of ancient linear hamlets and isolated farmsteads. Their landscape setting and cohesive building materials is vulnerable to unsympathetic additions or extensions, which would disrupt the largely intact built character

• Nucleated market towns with a strong historic core

• Distinctive low wooded horizons

• Strong sense of place

• Characteristic views across the farmland to landmark churches, often isolated and amid woodland

7 • Potential loss of small pits and extraction sites due to infilling”

3.2.14 Landscape Planning Guidelines of relevance to the Site for the Landscape Character Area F3 are;

• “Seek to conserve the diverse and interesting landscape pattern and character.

• Seek to conserve the distinctive, historic architectural and landscape features including historic halls and their setting, which contribute to the area’s rich historic character and strong sense of place.

• Ensure that any new development responds to historic settlement pattern and is well integrated into the surrounding landscape.

• Seek to ensure that potential new small-scale development within villages is consistent with the existing settlement pattern, density and traditional built form.

7 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P108-109

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• Conserve the landscape setting of small villages (such as Limpenhoe).

• Seek to promote use of local vernacular building materials, including red brick pantiles.

• Seek to ensure new development does not reduce the vertical significance of important historical and architectural features within the landscape, such as church towers.”8

3.2.15 To the north of the A47 lies character area E3; Spixworth. Due to its close proximity to the Site, it is useful to give a brief overview of the landscape character area.

3.2.16 E3 is described as follows: “Although the area abuts the urban edge of Norwich, the landscape generally comprises a semi-rural character. Its strength of character has been diluted by substantial fragmentation to the hedgerow structure in western parts. Robust blocks of woodland generally contain views across this flat landscape, at times, forming distinct coniferous skylines.”9

3.2.17 The Inherent Landscape Sensitivities for E3 are:

• “Mature landscape structure in eastern parts, including large blocks of woodland (including coniferous plantation), tree belts, copses of mature trees, remnant hedge boundaries and hedgerow trees, and parkland trees associated within large houses and halls.

• High landscape and recreational value associated with mature woodland; in particular the woodland located in eastern parts on the settlement edge of Norwich.

• Forms an important landscape setting to the city of Norwich.

• Landscape setting of villages.

8 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P109 9 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P91

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• Landscape setting of historic houses and halls.

10 • Open skyline in western parts.”

3.3 Contribution to Local Landscape Character

3.3.1 At a local scale, the Site lies immediately to the north of the rural village of Postwick village. The Site currently forms part of the agricultural field separated from the existing field network by Oaks Lane to the west, Church Road to the east and the raised A1042 to the north of the Site. Postwick itself is surrounded by agricultural fields to the east, west and south, further to the south land use changes to marsh land (Postwick Marsh). The River Yare forms dissects the land south of the Site with a distinctive sinuous V shape.

3.3.2 The Site contains some of the Inherent Landscape Sensitivities of the Landscape Character Area F3 and a few of E3. However, the presence of the A47 separates the two character areas. Crossing the southern portion of the Site in a western to south eastern direction is an overhead cable, infrastructure associated with the A1042 and A47 is visible from the Site. Both of the major roads have an audible impact on the Site itself. There are a number of new developments, at various stages that reduce the quality of the Site and local landscape character (Appendix A Figure 6).

3.3.3 The Site contains features such as land use, topography and mature trees that contribute positively to local landscape character although its proximity to major infrastructure affects its connectivity with the wider landscape; The Site is influenced by a number of urbanising features in character terms such as the A47, the A47/A1042 junction, sewage works, lighting, park and ride and railway, some of which affect tranquillity. Overall, the Site is considered to make a positive contribution to the local landscape character given its proximity to Postwick, the valley side and the valley floor. Overall the existing character of the Site contains

10 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P91

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some attributes representative of the local landscape character but some incongruous elements that detract from the local landscape character.

3.4 Statutory and Non-Statutory Designations

3.4.1 There are no statutory or non-statutory designations within the Site. There is a small area of deciduous woodland and woodpasture and parkland BAP adjacent to the southern boundary of the Site. Forming part of the Yare river valley, beside the River Yare lies a large expanse of grazing marsh, lowland fens and deciduous woodland.

3.4.2 National Parks: The Site is not located within a National Park. To the south of the Site and the village of Postwick is the Broads National Park. The area extends along the river valley corridor of the River Yare. (Refer Figure 3, Landscape, Heritage Designations and Public Rights of Way).

3.4.3 Scheduled Monuments: There are no Scheduled Monuments on or within a 2km study area of the Site. The closest Scheduled Monument is the Dormer Norwich Second World War IN-Station (List Entry Number: 1427470), approximately 4km west of the Site. (Refer Figure 3, Landscape, Heritage Designations and Public Rights of Way).

3.4.4 Listed Buildings: There are no buildings listed on the Historic England register within the Site or immediately adjacent to the Site. The closest listed building is a Grade II* Listed Building, Church of All Saints within Postwick village, approximately 520m south of the Site (List Entry Number: 1372681). (Refer Figure 3, Landscape, Heritage Designations and Public Rights of Way). From the Site, the church is screened from view by existing vegetation cover and the vegetated railway embankments. Although the Church is not visible from the Site, there are some limited locations in the wider landscape where it is possible to be afforded filtered, glimpsed views of the upper parts of the tower particularly during the winter months. There are no reverse views of the Site from the churchyard.

3.4.5 Conservation Areas: The Site is not located within a Conservation Area, or immediately adjacent to one. Thorpe St Andrew is the closest conservation area, located approximately 2.7km west of the Site. (refer Figure 3, Landscape, Heritage Designations and Public Rights of Way).

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3.4.6 Nature Conservation: The Site is not covered by any statutory or non-statutory wildlife site designation. Approximately 2.4km to the south of the Site is Bramerton Pits Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Approximately 1.2km west of the Site is the Whitlingham Marsh Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and 1.5km to the east of the Site lies; Mid-Yare National Nature Reserve (NNR), Broadland RAMSAR and Special Protection Area (SPA), Yare Broads and Marshes (SSSI) and The Broads Special Area of Conservation (SAC). (refer Figure 2, Statutory Designations).

3.4.7 Public Rights of Way (PRoW): There are no Public Rights of Way across the Site. There are a small number of PRoW which lie in the vicinity of the Site and surrounding area. Adjacent to the northern boundary of the Site is PRoW Postwick with Witton FP2, connection to Great Plumstead. To the south of Postwick is Postwick with Witton FP5 a short path connecting Oaks Lane to Ferry Lane via The Wilderness and the village community playing fields. Public Footpath Postwick with Witton PW: FP4 is located along the northern bank of the River Yare connecting to the A1042 Yarmouth Road, close to the Postwick interchange (A47). The Wherryman’s Way is a well-used and key recreational route, following the course of the River Yare on its southern side and wrapping around Kirby Marsh to join with Public Footpath Kirby Bedon BR4 to the south east. (refer Figure 3, Landscape, Heritage Designations with Public Rights of Way). PRoW information taken from ‘Map of Public Rights of Way in Norfolk 11interactive mapping.

3.5 Relevant Planning Applications

3.5.1 There has been a significant amount of development to the north and south of the A47, resulting in the character of the area becoming more commercial and urbanised, which has had an impact on landscape character and visual amenity in the local area.

11 http://www.norfolk.gov.uk/Leisure_and_culture/Public_Rights_of_Way/Map/index.htm accessed 09/12/15

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3.5.2 It is noted that in addition to the changes in land use and infrastructure above, a planning application was also recently rejected for a new petrol station on adjacent land, despite being recommended for approval by officers.

3.6 Landscape Resource

3.6.1 The Site consists of a small broadly rectangular shaped agricultural field. The land is classified as Grade 3 (Good to Moderate) agricultural land according to the Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) map.

3.6.2 The northern boundary of the Site runs adjacent to the A1042 and is composed of predominantly thick ground cover vegetation predominantly in the form of grasses. There is a small amount of structural shrub vegetation, particularly along the eastern portion of the boundary. Along the northern boundary of the Site is a line of mature hedgerow trees. The gaps between the trees allow for views into the Site from the A1042. To the north of the Site is the new business park, Broadland Gate, and the Norwich Northern Distributor Route (NNDR).

3.6.3 The eastern boundary of the Site is composed of sections of hedgerow vegetation and some scrubland vegetation. The varying heights in vegetation allows for views into the Site from Church Road. Further to the east of Church Road is the new sewage treatment works, visible from within the Site.

3.6.4 The southern boundary of the Site is adjacent to the settlement edge of Postwick. The boundary is well vegetated with large mature trees and shrubs. There is the occasional gap in the boundary allowing for views through to the dwelling on Church Road. Further to the south of the Site is the village of Postwick. Due to the effective screening from existing vegetation and topography St Mary’s Church (grade II*) is well screened from view.

3.6.5 The western boundary of the Site is adjacent to Oaks Lane, the boundary comprises of a relatively thick hedgerow which varies in height. There is a large gap in the hedgerow to allow for farm access to the Site. Beyond the western boundary is vacant land (with access spur) the Postwick Park and Ride.

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3.6.6 The Site itself remains relatively unchanged from the 1800’s as shown on mapping at Figure 8, Appendix A. However the landscape which surrounds the Site has changed to a large extent, both north and south of the A47.

3.6.7 Public Rights of Way (PRoW): There are no Public Rights of Way that fall within the vicinity of the Site. To the north of the Site is PRoW Postwick FP2, however due to the ongoing construction works this PRoW at the time of writing was closed. PRoW information taken from ‘Map of Public Rights of Way in Norfolk 12interactive mapping. (refer Figure 3, Landscape, Heritage Designations and Public Rights of Way).

3.7 Visual Resource

3.7.1 The visual amenity experienced by people (visual receptors) in the locality of the Site differs according to many factors. Visual receptors of higher sensitivity with limited susceptibility to change include residents at home (private viewpoints), people engaged in outdoor recreation (including use of PROWs), visitors to heritage assets and other attractions, travellers on recognised scenic routes (public viewpoints) and people at their work place where views are an important contributor to the setting and quality of their working life.

3.7.2 Travellers on road, rail or other transport routes and people engaged in outdoor sport or recreation are considered less sensitive to changes in visual amenity.

3.7.3 Consideration of the study area, via desk research and field survey, has identified locations from which the Site (proposed development) will potentially be visible. The following specific, representative and illustrative views have been selected for inclusion in the report to illustrate the visual effects of the proposed development:

Private viewpoints

• Residential properties along Church Road, reverse view photo location 1.

12 http://www.norfolk.gov.uk/Leisure_and_culture/Public_Rights_of_Way/Map/index.htm accessed 09/12/15

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Public viewpoints

• Views east towards Site taken from the new footway and cycle way from the Postwick Park and Ride to Oaks Lane, photo location 8.

Transport routes

• Views south east towards Site from Oaks Lane, photo locations 1, 2, and south east from the A1042 roundabout near Oaks Lane, photo location 3.

• Views from Brundall Low Road, photo locations 4, 5 & 6.

• Views east towards the Site from A1042, photo location 7.

• Views south east towards the Site from the Northern Distributor Route photo location 9.

• Views south east towards the Site from the A47 slip road, photo location 10.

• Views south east towards the Site, from the vehicular bridge across the A47, photo locations 11 & 12.

Summary

3.7.4 The existing visual amenity of the Site within the context of the Landscape Character Area has been assessed to offer good visual amenity, where the quality of the existing views is such that there are few incongruous elements and the views are enjoyed by local people on a day to day basis.

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THE PROPOSALS

4.1 General Principles

4.1.1 This section of the report considers the results of the initial baseline work in the context of future potential development of the Site.

4.1.2 The design of the proposed development should be well-integrated into the landscape and maintain the quality of the transition between the developed and rural landscape; the treatment of the site boundaries and the structural spaces will be key to maintaining and enhancing the quality of that transition.

4.1.3 To assist the design process, the following general landscape opportunities could be applied to the emerging landscape scheme based upon site investigations, landscape character assessment and visual effects considerations, and the district landscape character assessment.

4.1.4 The district landscape character assessment identifies the following key landscape planning guidelines, for landscape type F, applicable to the proposals:

• ”Seek to conserve the diverse and interesting landscape pattern and character.

• Seek to conserve and enhance the diversity of landscape structure within the area, including the patchwork of woodland and farmland with a recognisable hedgerow structure.

• Seek opportunities for the restoration of fragmented hedgerows.

• Seek to maintain greenspace between the edges of Norwich urban area and adjacent villages.

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• Seek to maintain and enhance copses of mature trees and existing robust hedgerows.13

4.1.5 By implementing these guidelines as part of the emerging layout it would provide significant opportunities for the Site to deliver benefits for landscape enhancement of this part of the District, as well as, increasing visual amenity along the A1042, Church Road and Oaks Lane.

4.2 Proposal

4.2.1 The proposed scheme is shown on the plans (by JMP Architects Ltd.) and includes the following elements:

• A new single storey church hall with associated car parking, lighting and access road.

• Large area of new wildflower meadows.

• Reinforcement of existing retained boundary vegetation with wooded blocks, copses, hedgerows and structural planting.

• Provision of new native hedgerows along boundaries and adjacent to acoustic fencing.

• Provision of new trees across the Site, within the wildflower meadow, boundary planting and car park / plaza area.

4.3 Approach to Mitigation

4.3.1 In consideration of the landscape and visual issues relevant to the Site an approach to the mitigation of the proposed development has been considered, incorporating the principles outlined above. The mitigation strategy would be developed in further detail, and would aim to avoid, reduce and where feasible, remedy the identified landscape and visual effects.

13 Broadland District LCA. 2013. P91.

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4.3.2 Recommendations have been incorporated into the proposals which aim to mitigate potential adverse landscape and visual effects and help to integrate the proposed development into the surrounding landscape as follows:

• Provision of new hedgerow and structural planting along boundaries as well as new trees within the Site and on the boundaries of the Site helping to reduce the visual effects and integrate the proposals into the surrounding landscape.

• Provision of new trees and planting within the car park area to reduce the visual effect of the large hard surfaced area.

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POTENTIAL LIKELY LANDSCAPE EFFECTS

This section of the report considers the results of the initial baseline work in the context of future potential development of the Site. The landscape effects are the changes to the Site, quantitative or qualitative, compared with a scenario without the Proposals. Effects can be adverse or beneficial, direct, indirect or cumulative.

The following assessment of landscape effects should be read in conjunction with the approach to mitigation (refer to Chapter 4).

5.1 Identifying the likely Landscape Effects

5.1.1 The effect of the proposed changes to the Site, specifically on the identified landscape receptors (attributes) has been reviewed including consideration of changes to the existing landscape resource, the introduction of new elements within the landscape and changes to local perceptions of the Site.

5.2 Susceptibility

5.2.1 An important element in identifying the effects of a Proposal is to assess the ability (the susceptibility) of the existing landscape to accommodate the specific proposed changes with regard to the consequences on the local landscape character.

5.2.2 The Site (landscape resource) has been deemed to be of Medium Susceptibility to accommodate the proposed development: this is an established landscape where change of an appropriate nature could be absorbed without the loss of key characteristics, individual elements or features (i.e. hedgerow and significant vegetation).

5.3 Likely Landscape Effects

5.3.1 Effects can be adverse or beneficial. Where the Proposals are judged to cause deterioration to the landscape resource / local landscape character this is described as an adverse effect. Where the Proposals are judged to increase the value of the

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Site to the landscape resource / local landscape character this is described as a beneficial effect.

5.3.2 There will be a direct effect to the Site itself in the proposed change in landscape character from an agricultural field to a new church hall, which is an unavoidable change. The sloping landform will require regrading to form a level for the footprint of the new building and car parking, which will be cut into the north east corner and will be the most apparent change to the landscape resource. The formalising of the access on Oaks Lane will also alter the rural character of Oaks Lane. Given the context and surrounding infrastructure, the greatest landscape effects are likely to be localised and affect the immediate area introducing a new urbanising element (built form, parking and lighting), with limited effects felt on the wider landscape character.

5.3.3 Once an appropriate landscape management scheme has established the significance of the landscape effects in the longer term will reduce. The proposals provide new areas of woodland copses, tree belts, individual trees, planting and a wildflower meadow that contribute to the character of the area, at the same time helping to soften the scheme and integrate it into its setting, and enhancing the diversity of the landscape and providing some biodiversity and green infrastructure benefits.

2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx Landscape and Visual Assessment: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

POTENTIAL LIKELY VISUAL EFFECTS

The visual effects are the changes to the Site, quantitative or qualitative, compared with a scenario without the Proposals. Effects can be adverse or beneficial, direct, indirect or cumulative. The assessment involves a systematic identification and description of the visual effects, supported by plans and photographs.

The following assessment of visual effect should be read in conjunction with the approach to mitigation (refer Chapter 4).

6.1 Identifying the Visual Effects

6.1.1 The likely value placed upon views by people or the visual amenity of the locality is evaluated to help assess the effects of proposed development.

6.1.2 Consideration of the views and visual amenity during the site visit has been undertaken during the winter months when vegetation was bare and screening benefits were minimal. As such, the assessment has endeavoured to make informed judgements applicable to visual amenity throughout the year and the consideration of seasonal views, e.g. in the summer months when vegetation is full of foliage.

6.1.3 An important element in identifying the visual effects of a Proposal is to assess the existing visual receptors (people who see the view) and their susceptibility to changes in views and visual amenity. The susceptibility of different visual receptors to changes in views and visual amenity is mainly a function of:

• The occupation or activity of people experiencing the view at particular locations; and

• The extent to which their attention or interest may therefore be focused on the views and the visual amenity they experience at particular locations.14

14 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 3rd Edition, Para 6.32 (2013)

2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx Landscape and Visual Assessment: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick 23

6.1.4 The visual amenity of the Site within the wider Landscape Character Area has been identified as ‘good visual amenity’, where the quality of the existing views is such that there are few incongruous elements and the views are enjoyed by local people on a day to day basis.

6.2 Likely Visual Effects

6.2.1 Assessment of the significance of visual effects relating to the proposed development is considered with regard to the sensitivity of the visual receptor, the value attached to the views or visual amenity and the magnitude of change in view. The magnitude of change in view is considered in light of:

• The sensitivity of the visual receptor (the viewer)

• The value attached to the views or visual amenity

• The size and scale of the development

• The geographical extent of the area influenced

• Duration

• Reversibility.

6.2.2 The significance of the change for the visual amenity of the viewer is assessed for the identified viewpoints the degree of change which the Proposals will engender is described and assessed. The following section identifies the primary viewpoints and people or visual receptors within the area that are likely to be affected by the change in views and visual amenity resulting from the proposed development. The significance of the visual effect has been assessed upon completion of the scheme and once established (i.e. 15 years plus).

6.3 Identification of Likely Visual Effects

6.3.1 The following section identifies a range of typical receptors within the area which are likely to be affected by the change in views and visual amenity resulting from the proposed development.

2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx Landscape and Visual Assessment: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

It should be noted that for a number of views the likely effects are considered to be short lived or brief glimpses, largely because they occur on transient routes – e.g. transport routes or local roads – in these locations the views are often quick or periodic glimpses through gaps in hedges whilst moving along a route, for example views 4, 6. 7 and 13. In some instances the change is not the focus of the view or in line with the direction of travel and as result the viewer would need to stop and turn his/ her head to appreciate the view and any change associated with it.

6.3.2 There will be views of the proposed scheme from a few residential properties along Church Road close to the Site (example photo 1 (reverse view). The addition of new planting will assist with softening however the effects will remain, although it is also anticipated that the landscape proposals will also assist with some softening of views towards the elevated A1042 and the infrastructure around Postwick junction at the A47.

6.3.3 There will be views of the Site from the recently constructed cycle and foot way at the edge of the Park and Ride site (see example photo 8). Due to the topography of the Site, surrounding area and Oaks Lane, the proposals will be clearly visible. A new hedgerow adjacent to Oaks Lane and new tree planting in the west of the Site and to the west of the built proposals, and within the car park area will help to soften the impact of the proposals and will assist with softening views of the proposals.

6.3.4 There will be views of the proposals from Oaks Lane (photos 1 and 2) and from the roundabout to the north of Oaks Lane (photo 3). The views are currently through substantial gaps in vegetation, along the eastern boundary and at the north eastern corner of the Site. Changes to the Lane at the site entrance will be readily apparent, although a new hedgerow along Oaks Lane and new tree planting will help to mitigate views of the proposals. New clusters of trees within the wildflower meadow in the eastern portion of the Site will assist with softening views of the of the proposals but it is likely that the effects will remain. Tree and hedgerow planting surrounding the proposals will provide a degree of layering, further softening any views of the proposals.

2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx Landscape and Visual Assessment: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick 25

6.3.5 Views of the proposals from Brundall Low Road (used by cars, cyclists and pedestrians) (views 4, 5 and 6) towards the arable fringes and the Broads Valley are possible due to the open roadside field boundary but will quickly reduce with distance. However, existing vegetation layers to the intervening field boundaries associated with the sewage works, and small blocks of woodland filter the views within the wider landscape, including parts of the site.

2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx Landscape and Visual Assessment: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

CONCLUSIONS

7.1.1 The Landscape and Visual Assessment has reviewed the existing landscape and visual resource of the relevant to the land at Postwick (the Site) in consideration of the proposed development. The Site is considered to make a positive contribution to the local landscape character and offer good visual amenity.

7.1.2 The proposed development comprises a new single storey church hall with associated car parking, lighting and access road, together associated with a large area of species rich wildflower meadows, reinforcement and enhancement of existing boundary vegetaion, new native hedgerows and new trees across the Site as part of the landscape strategy.

7.1.3 Overall, on balance the Proposals for the Site are considered to have a direct effect to the local landscape resource due to the sloping topgography of the Site, the formalisation of the access onto the Site from Oaks Lane and the introduction of built form, parking and lighting. The greatest of effects will be felt in the locally in the immediate area, effects on the wider landscape and landscape character will be limited. Various mitigation measures will assist with anchoring and integrating the proposals into both the local and wider landscape, these include:

• Provision of new trees and planting within the car park area to reduce the visual effect of the large hard surfaced area.

7.1.4 The proposals provide new areas of woodland copses, tree belts, individual trees, planting and a wildflower meadow that contribute to the character of the area, at the same time helping to soften the scheme and integrate it into its setting, and enhancing the diversity of the landscape and providing some biodiversity and green infrastructure benefits.

2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx Landscape and Visual Assessment: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick 27

7.1.5 These mitigation measures respond to and take on board the guidelines and aims of the Local Landscape Character Assessment. Overall these measures will provide benefits that will help integrate the development into its surroundings, whilst providing some benefits to the biodiversity and green infrastructure of the local landscape.

7.1.6 There will be an immediate change to the visual amenity of the Site and local area as a result of the proposed development. However, once planting and mitigation planting has established to integrate the proposals into the landscape and provides an increased amount of screening and softening to the built form.

2047 LVA 18 03 23.docx Stansted: Bristol: Nottingham: Unit 1, The Exchange, 1 Host Street, Suite 201, 9 Station Road, Bristol, BS1 5BU 20 Fletcher Gate, Stansted, CM24 8BE Nottingham NG1 2FZ

t +44 (0)1279 647044 t +44 (0)117 927 1786 t +44 (0)115 784 3566 e [email protected] e [email protected] e [email protected] www.lizlake.com www.lizlake.com www.lizlake.com

∎ Landscape Design

∎ Urban Design

∎ Residential

∎ Public Realm

∎ Masterplanning

∎ Landscape Planning

∎ Heritage Landscapes

∎ Gardens and Estates

∎ Restoration and Conversion

∎ Places of Worship

∎ Expert Witness

∎ Hospitality

∎ Education

∎ Retail / Office

∎ Community

∎ Ecology

∎ Arboriculture

∎ 3D / Graphic Design Appendix A.1 LAND AT OAKS LANE, POSTWICK

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT

FIGURES 1 - 5

March 2018

FIGURE 1: SITE LOCATION

FIGURE 2: STATUTORY DESIGNATIONS

FIGURE 3: LANDSCAPE AND HERITAGE DESIGNATIONS WITH PROW

FIGURE 4: ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGNATIONS

FIGURE 5: LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT

2047 Figure 1

o [email protected] www.lizlake.com Site Location

Key:

Site Boundary

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

Client: NCH Construction Ltd.

Date: March 2018

Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3

Status: FINAL

o [email protected] www.lizlake.com Statutory Designations

Key:

Site Boundary

2km Study Area

Site of Special Scientiﬁc Interest (SSSI)

RAMSAR

National Nature Reserves (NNR)

Local Nature Reserve (LNR)

Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)

Special Protection Areas (SPA)

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

Client: NCH Construction Ltd.

Date: March 2018

Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3

Status: FINAL

Legend Scheduled Monuments (England) - points World Heritage Sites (England) Buffer Zone

World Heritage Site

Listed Buildings (England)

2047Le Figurege 3nd

o [email protected] www.lizlake.com Landscape and Heritage Designations with Public Rights ofS Waycheduled Monuments (England) - points World Heritage Sites (England) Key: Buffer Zone

Site Boundary World Heritage Site

Listed Buildings (England) 2km Study Area

Broads National Park

PLU FP4 Heritage Designations: PLU FP6

Listed Buildings

PLU FP5 Scheduled Monuments

Registered Park & Garden

PO FP2 Conservation Areas

Projection = OSGB36 Public Rights of Way: xmin = 357600 ymin = 167800 xmax = 370300 Footpath ymax = 173700 TSA RB4 Map produced by MAGIC on 13 February, 2017. Copyright resides with the data suppliers and the map Bridleway must not be reproduced without their permission. Some TSA FP3 information in MAGIC is a snapshot of the information PO FP3 (c) Crown Copyright and database rights 2017. Ordnance Survey 100022861. that is being maintained or continually updated by the originating organisation. Please refer to the metadata for Restricted Byway details as information may be illustrative or representative rather than definitive at this stage. PO FP4 National Trail

PO FP5

Public Right of Way Abbreviations: PO = Postwick SUR FP1 PLU = Great & Little Plumstead SUR FP11 SUR = Surlingham TSA = Thorpe St Andrew KB BR8 KB = Kirby Bedon

SUR FP3

KB FP3 Projection = OSGB36 SUR FP2 xmin = 357600 KB BR4 ymin = 167800 xmax = 370300 SUR FP12 ymax = 173700 Map produced by MAGIC on 13 February, 2017. Copyright resides with the data suppliers and the map must not be reproduced without their permission. Some Project: Land at Oaks Lane,in fPostwickormation in MAGIC is a snapshot of the information (c) Crown Copyright and database rights 2017. Ordnance Survey 100022861. that is being maintained or continually updated by the Client: NCH Constructionoriginati nLtd.g organisation. Please refer to the metadata for details as information may be illustrative or representative Date: Marchrather t2018han definitive at this stage.

Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3

Status: FINAL

o [email protected] www.lizlake.com Environmental Designations

Key:

Site Boundary

2km Study Area

Woodland Designations:

Priority Habitat Inventory - Deciduous Woodland

Woodpasture and Parkland BAP Priority Habitat (England)

Grassland Designations:

Priority Habitat Inventory - Coastal and Floodplain Grazing Marsh

Priority Habitat Inventory - Good Quality semi-improved grassland (Non-Priority) (England)

Priority Habitat Inventory - Lowland Meadows (England)

Wetland Designations:

Priority Habitat Inventory - Lowland Fens (England)

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

Client: NCH Construction Ltd.

Date: March 2018

Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3

Status: FINAL

o [email protected] www.lizlake.com Landscape Character Assessment

Key: E4

Site Boundary

Authority Boundary

E3 2km Study Area

Broads Authority Landscape Character Areas E4 0 - Arable areas - outside "Broads" Character*

10 - Whitlingham Lane and Country Park

11 - Postwick Grove and Whitlingham D4 Marshes E3 12 - Kirby/Postwick to Rockland/ Strumpshaw

D4 *It is noted that one should refer to the adjacent landscape character area. (Broads Landscape Study 2013)

Broadland District Landscape Character Areas F3 D4 - Bloﬁeld Tributary Farmland

The Broads Authority E3 - Spixworth Wooded Estatelands

11 Broadland District E4 - Rackheath and Salhouse Wooded 10 10 11 The Broads Authority Estatelands F3 The Broads Authority F3 - Reedham to Thorpe Marshes South Norfolk Fringe

F - Valley Urban Fringe South Norfolk Landscape Character Typologies 12 D - Settled Plateau Farmland 12 B - Tributary Farmland 0 B1 - Tas Tributary Farmland B3 - Rockland Tributary Farmland

F - Valley Urban Fringe

The Broads Authority

South Norfolk

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

Client: NCH Construction Ltd.

Date: March 2018

Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3 B3 - Rockland Tributary Farmland Status: FINAL

D - Settled Plateau Farmland

© COPYRIGHT LIZ LAKE ASSOCIATES Reproduced from Ordnance Survey map data by permission of Ordnance Survey © Crown copyright 2018 Licence No.100007196 © Crown copyright and database rights 2018 Ordnance Survey Licence No.0100031673 Stansted: Bristol: Nottingham: Unit 1, The Exchange, 1 Host Street, Suite 201, 9 Station Road, Bristol, BS1 5BU 20 Fletcher Gate, Stansted, CM24 8BE Nottingham NG1 2FZ

t +44 (0)1279 647044 t +44 (0)117 927 1786 t +44 (0)115 784 3566 e [email protected] e [email protected] e [email protected] www.lizlake.com www.lizlake.com www.lizlake.com

∎ Landscape Design

∎ Urban Design

∎ Residential

∎ Public Realm

∎ Masterplanning

∎ Landscape Planning

∎ Heritage Landscapes

∎ Gardens and Estates

∎ Restoration and Conversion

∎ Places of Worship

∎ Expert Witness

∎ Hospitality

∎ Education

∎ Retail / Office

∎ Community

∎ Ecology

∎ Arboriculture

∎ 3D / Graphic Design Appendix A.2 LAND AT OAKS LANE, POSTWICK

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT

FIGURES 6 - 7

March 2018

FIGURE 6: PHOTO LOCATION PLAN

FIGURE 7: PHOTOGRAPHIC SHEETS (SHEETS 1 – 4)

2047 Figure 6

o [email protected] www.lizlake.com Photo Location Plan

Key:

Site Boundary

1 Photo Location

11 12

7 3 2

1 6 5 4 8

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick

Client: NCH Construction Ltd.

Date: March 2018

Scale: 1:25,000 @ A3

Status: FINAL

© COPYRIGHT LIZ LAKE ASSOCIATES Reproduced from Ordnance Survey map data by permission of Ordnance Survey © Crown copyright 2018 Licence No.100007196 © Crown copyright and database rights 2018 Ordnance Survey Licence No.0100031673 © Google Earth 2017 2047 Figure 7 Sheet 1 of 4 Photographic Sheets [email protected] www.lizlake.com

Approximate extent of Site

Residential property on Church Road

Oaks Lane

Photo Location 1: View looking east towards Site, taken from Oaks Lane.

A1042 Approximate extent of Site

Sewage treatment works

Oaks Lane

Photo Location 2: View looking south east towards Site, taken from Oaks Lane.

Approximate extent of Site

A1042

Photo Location 3: View looking south east towards Site, taken from A1042 round about.

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick | Client: NCH Construction Ltd. | Date: March 2018 | Status: FINAL 2047 Figure 7 Sheet 2 of 4 Photographic Sheets [email protected] www.lizlake.com

Brundall Low Road

Photo Location 4: View looking west towards the Site, taken from Brundall Low Road.

Residential properties Site Sewage treatment along Church Road works

Brundall Low Road

Photo Location 5: View looking west towards the Site, taken from Brundall Low Road.

Site A1042

Church Road Brundall Low Road

Photo Location 6: View looking north west towards the Site, taken from Brundall Low Road junction with Church Road.

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick | Client: NCH Construction Ltd. | Date: March 2018 | Status: FINAL 2047 Figure 7 Sheet 3 of 4 Photographic Sheets [email protected] www.lizlake.com

Site A47 Northern Distributor Road

A1042

Photo Location 7: View looking south west towards Site, taken from A1042.

Approximate extent of Site

Photo Location 8: View looking north east towards Site, taken from the new footpath connecting Postwick Park and Ride to Oaks Lane.

Approximate extent of Site

Northern Distributor Route (NDR)

Photo Location 9: View looking south towards Site, taken from the Northern Distributor Route.

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick | Client: NCH Construction Ltd. | Date: March 2018 | Status: FINAL 2047 Figure 7 Sheet 4 of 4 Photographic Sheets [email protected] www.lizlake.com

A47 Sewage treatment works

Photo Location 10: View looking south east towards Site, taken from roundabout and slip road off the A47.

A47 Site

Sewage treatment works

Photo Location 11: View looking east towards Site, taken from vehicular bridge over the A47.

Approximate extent of Site

Old works compound A1042

Photo Location 12: View looking east towards Site, taken from vehicular bridge over the A47.

Project: Land at Oaks Lane, Postwick | Client: NCH Construction Ltd. | Date: March 2018 | Status: FINAL Stansted: Bristol: Nottingham: Unit 1, The Exchange, 1 Host Street, Suite 201, 9 Station Road, Bristol, BS1 5BU 20 Fletcher Gate, Stansted, CM24 8BE Nottingham NG1 2FZ

t +44 (0)1279 647044 t +44 (0)117 927 1786 t +44 (0)115 784 3566 e [email protected] e [email protected] e [email protected] www.lizlake.com www.lizlake.com www.lizlake.com

∎ Landscape Design

∎ Urban Design

∎ Residential

∎ Public Realm

∎ Masterplanning

∎ Landscape Planning

∎ Heritage Landscapes

∎ Gardens and Estates

∎ Restoration and Conversion

∎ Places of Worship

∎ Expert Witness

∎ Hospitality

∎ Education

∎ Retail / Office

∎ Community

∎ Ecology

∎ Arboriculture

∎ 3D / Graphic Design Appendix B LAND AT OAKS LANE, POSTWICK

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT

PUBLISHED LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENTS (LCA)

March 2018

NCA 78 LCA EXTRACT

NCA 80 LCA EXTRACT

F3 REEDHAM TO THORPE EXTRACT National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

www.naturalengland.org.uk

1 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

Introduction National Character Areas map

As part of Natural England’s responsibilities as set out in the Natural Environment 1 2 3 White Paper , Biodiversity 2020 and the European Landscape Convention , we are North revising profiles for England’s 159 National Character Areas (NCAs). These are areas East that share similar landscape characteristics, and which follow natural lines in the landscape rather than administrative boundaries, making them a good decision- Yorkshire making framework for the natural environment. & The North Humber NCA profiles are guidance documents which can help communities to inform their West decision-making about the places that they live in and care for. The information they contain will support the planning of conservation initiatives at a landscape East scale, inform the delivery of Nature Improvement Areas and encourage broader Midlands partnership working through Local Nature Partnerships. The profiles will also help West Midlands to inform choices about how land is managed and can change. East of England Each profile includes a description of the natural and cultural features that shape our landscapes, how the landscape has changed over time, the current key London drivers for ongoing change, and a broad analysis of each area’s characteristics and ecosystem services. Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEOs) are South East suggested, which draw on this integrated information. The SEOs offer guidance South West on the critical issues, which could help to achieve sustainable growth and a more secure environmental future.

NCA profiles are working documents which draw on current evidence and knowledge. We will aim to refresh and update them periodically as new 1 The Natural Choice: Securing the Value of Nature, Defra information becomes available to us. (2011; URL: www.official-documents.gov.uk/document/cm80/8082/8082.pdf) 2 Biodiversity 2020: A Strategy for England’s Wildlife and Ecosystem Services, Defra We would like to hear how useful the NCA profiles are to you. You can contact the (2011; URL: www.defra.gov.uk/publications/files/pb13583-biodiversity-strategy-2020-111111.pdf) NCA team by emailing [email protected] 3 European Landscape Convention, Council of Europe (2000; URL: http://conventions.coe.int/Treaty/en/Treaties/Html/176.htm)

2 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

Summary

The gently undulating rural landscape of the Central North Norfolk National The main pressures for change to the area are posed by growth and a need to Character Area (NCA) stretches from the slightly flatter, more open land of accommodate increased development, especially around Norwich. Other key Mid Norfolk NCA, to the prominent glacial landform of the Cromer Ridge and challenges include the potential for further agricultural intensification, a need for the dynamic exposed coastline of coastal cliffs, where large storm events sustainable approaches to commercial farming practices and managing ongoing dramatically shape its character. This is ancient countryside with a long-settled visitor pressures in coastal areas. Maintaining the traditional farmed landscape of agricultural character, where arable land is enclosed by winding lanes and the Central North Norfolk NCA through sustainable land management practices hedgerows, interspersed with woodland and remnant heath and dissected by – to help protect its important natural processes and resources, its areas of high lush pastoral river valleys. A patchwork of cultivated land, numerous church tranquillity, accessibility to important coastal features and geodiversity – and spires, distant wooded horizons and big skies dominates the landscape. enhancing the landscape for recreational and biodiversity opportunity will present further challenges into the future. This is a predominately tranquil place, with isolated market towns and scattered villages and farmhouses, their red brick, flint walls and pantile roofs an intrinsic Coastal erosion has a large impact in this NCA, especially east of Cromer. The and important component of Norfolk’s built character, reflecting the underlying character of the ‘natural’ coastline itself should be maintained but communities/ geology. The area is rich in 18th-century estates and medieval churches, and the settlements and infrastructures are subject to change. historic city of Norwich provides a cultural and economic centre. The coastal flint and red brick towns of Cromer and Sheringham provide focal points in an otherwise dynamic coastal landscape, and their beaches and seaside recreation facilities provide a draw for tourists.

The area is well wooded for Norfolk and important for its remnant heathland, which was once much more extensive. Much of the coastline is part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with the cliffs at Overstrand designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for their maritime cliff habitats and slopes. The eroding coastal cliffs, especially at West Runton, are an internationally important site for their geodiversity and fossil remains. The Norfolk Valley Fens SAC supports rare lowland alkaline fen communities and Norfolk’s river valleys contain an important mosaic of habitats and species, with the entire length of the chalk-fed River Wensum designated as an SAC. The NCA contains small areas of the adjacent North Norfolk Coast and Broads Ramsar sites/Special Protection Areas. Click map to enlarge; click again to reduce.

3 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

Statements of Environmental Opportunity

 SEO 1: Work with the local farming community to safeguard future food production, while maintaining the traditional landscape character with its patchwork field system, mixed hedges and pastoral river valleys; enhancing biodiversity, especially in arable margins and hedgerows, geodiversity, water quality and availability, pollination, soil quality, and managing soil erosion; and addressing the impacts of climate change.

 SEO 2: Maintain, enhance and restore priority habitats, including woodlands, areas of remnant heathland, and the nationally and internationally important Norfolk Valley Fens, chalk river systems (including the River Wensum) and maritime cliff habitats. Seek opportunities to connect fragmented habitats, improving the area for biodiversity and recreation, and enhancing landscape character and resilience to climate change.

 SEO 3: Conserve and enhance the historic character of the area while affording protection to heritage assets, biodiversity, geodiversity and water resources, and encouraging sustainable tourism and recreational use and also a sympathetic approach to development in coastal areas, around market towns and towards Norwich.

 SEO 4: Ensure the sustainable development of the coastline and its coastal towns and villages, while protecting and enhancing its important geodiversity, encouraging natural coastal processes where possible, improving access and interpretation, and encouraging sustainable recreational use and visitor enjoyment while conserving sites with high River Stiffkey and valley fen - internationally important habitat. biodiversity value including maritime cliff habitats.

4 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

Coastal processes of erosion, transportation and deposition form a functional link Description along the Norfolk coastline, with an east–west long-shore drift ‘divide’ off Cromer, transporting sediment eroded from the soft cliffs of the NCA, and incoming sediment from as far north as the Holderness NCA, to coastal areas of The Broads Physical and functional links to other National NCA to the south-east and the North Norfolk Coast NCA to the west. Character Areas The coastal areas of the NCA form part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding A curving line across the Wensum Valley marks a transition from the Central North Natural Beauty (AONB), which covers the entirety of the adjacent North Norfolk Norfolk National Character Area (NCA) to the slightly flatter, more open land of the Coast NCA. A small section of the North Norfolk Coast Ramsar site and Special Mid Norfolk NCA towards the south-west. The two NCAs share many landscape Protection Area (SPA) lies within the NCA. characteristics and features and are closely linked physically and ecologically. The Cromer Ridge is a prominent feature in an otherwise gently undulating Late Cretaceous Chalk, which also lies beneath the adjoining Mid Norfolk NCA landscape and can be seen from neighbouring NCAs to the west. Long views of and the other NCAs of the East Anglian Plain, underlies almost half of the area. The the North Norfolk Coast NCA are possible from the ridge, especially from High eastern half of the NCA is underlain by late Tertiary and Quaternary shallow marine Kelling and Upper Sheringham. Views are limited from the coastal cliffs due to the sediments known as crag, which continues south and east into North East Norfolk geography of the coastline, although it is possible to see a considerable distance and Flegg NCA, The Broads NCA and a small section of both Suffolk Coast and along the North East Norfolk and Flegg NCA coastline from Mundesley, and parts Heaths NCA and South Norfolk and High Suffolk Claylands NCA. The underlying of the North Norfolk Coast NCA can be seen from Sheringham. The Sheringham Chalk bedrock forms a principal aquifer serving a much wider area. Away from Shoal offshore wind farm is a prominent feature in the seascape and is visible from the river valleys, above the chalk and crag, the landscape we see is almost entirely the entire coastline of the NCA. Coastal areas, especially Cromer and Sheringham, formed of glacial deposits, either glacial till or sand and gravel, which give the provide recreational opportunities for visitors and are a major tourist destination landscape its gently undulating character. The exception is the river valleys which for people from all over the UK. contain alluvium. The most impressive glacial landform is the Cromer Ridge, and the glacial sediments are exposed in the cliffs at the coast. An A road network links Cromer and Aylsham with Norwich and the market towns of Fakenham and East Dereham in the Mid Norfolk NCA. The A149 coastal There are extensive hydrological links between rivers in the NCA and surrounding road runs the length of the Norfolk coast between King’s Lynn in the North West areas. The Wensum and Tud, whose upstream sections drain large areas of the Norfolk NCA and Great Yarmouth in the North East Norfolk and Flegg NCA. Further adjacent Mid Norfolk NCA, supply the major wetland systems of The Broads NCA. links are provided by the public rights of way network, including the Peddars The Glaven begins in the Central North Norfolk NCA before it joins the North Sea in Way and Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, which stretches from The Brecks NCA the North Norfolk Coast NCA. The Bure and Stiffkey both have their source in the through Mid Norfolk to the coast and Hunstanton in the North West Norfolk NCA, area where the Mid Norfolk and Central North Norfolk NCAs meet – the Bure then and then along the north Norfolk coast to Cromer. The rail network provides links flowing east to The Broads, and the Stiffkey flowing into North West Norfolk and from Norwich north to the coast and Cromer and Sheringham via The Broads and then on to the North Norfolk Coast. North East Norfolk and Flegg NCAs, and south and west via the South Norfolk and High Suffolk Claylands NCA.

5 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

Key characteristics

■ A gently undulating, sometimes flat, landscape dissected by river valleys, ■ Relatively well-wooded landscape, with ancient oak and beech woodland with the glacial landform of the Cromer Ridge and dramatic coastal cliffs and areas of conifer plantation. providing distinctive features to the north. ■ Important species, maritime cliff habitats and slopes, alkaline valley fen ■ Gravels, sands, chalk erratics and glacial till left behind by the retreating ice communities and areas of remnant heathland. of Pleistocene glaciations, and the resulting complexity of soils, determine natural vegetation patterns. ■ Large number of 18th-century estates with their associated parkland, and a great density and stylistic variety of churches, which are often prominent ■ Physically dynamic coastline of geomorphological importance, providing features of the skyline. a main source of sediment recharge elsewhere along the coast, with internationally important Pleistocene sediment and fossil deposits exposed ■ Coherent vernacular architecture – marked by distinctive red brick and flint in eroding coastal cliffs. buildings with pantiled roofs, much dating from the 17th and 18th centuries with some earlier timber frame – is an inherent component of the area’s ■ Underlying chalk aquifer, small fast-flowing chalk rivers and biodiversity- character. rich, wide, lush river valleys with wooded valley slopes, including the internationally important chalk-fed River Wensum. ■ A mix of villages and many farmhouses within a complex minor road network, with a traditional pattern of market towns connected by main ■ Tranquil agricultural landscape with extensive areas of arable land, roads, the coastal holiday resorts of Cromer and Sheringham, and the city of dominated by cereals with break-cropping of sugar beet and oilseed rape, Norwich providing a centre for cultural and economic activity. and some pastures along valley floors. ■ Dense network of public rights of way including the Peddars Way and ■ Ancient countryside, much of it enclosed by the 16th century, with a Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, with main recreational activity centred on sporadically rationalised patchwork field system, sinuous lanes and mixed coastal areas. hedges with hedgerow oaks.

6 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

Statements of Environmental Opportunity

SEO 1: Work with the local farming community to safeguard future food production, while maintaining the traditional landscape character with its patchwork field system, mixed hedges and pastoral river valleys; enhancing biodiversity, especially in arable margins and hedgerows, geodiversity, water quality and availability, pollination, soil quality, and managing soil erosion; and addressing the impacts of climate change.

For example, by: ■ Managing the agricultural landscape in a sustainable way to improve the ■ Maintaining water availability by using integrated water and land long-term viability of agriculture and yields, while protecting the natural management practices to slow run-off and increase infiltration to the assets of the area. underlying chalk aquifer by reducing soil compaction and increasing soil organic matter on agricultural land. ■ Working with farmers through agricultural stewardship schemes to reduce the loss of sediment and associated phosphates from agricultural land ■ Strengthening the characteristic hedgerow network by protecting, through appropriate changes in land management, including the use of managing and reinstating hedgerows and hedgerow trees, thereby buffer strips adjacent to watercourses. connecting fragmented habitats, improving biodiversity and reducing wind erosion. ■ Reducing soil compaction by encouraging the careful timing of land management activities, including reducing unnecessary machinery use in ■ Seeking opportunities to increase field margins, species-rich hedgerows wet conditions. and beetle banks to encourage a network of habitats for pest-regulating species close to areas of agricultural production. ■ Using stewardship schemes to promote an increase of organic matter in soils through management interventions, including the use of grass leys, ■ Encouraging sympathetic management for pollinator species by introducing fallow into rotations and over-winter stubbles. enhancing the floristic diversity of hedgerow banks and increasing the areas of pollen and nectar margins on arable farms. ■ Working with farmers to reduce sources of nitrate leaching to groundwater and run-off to surface waters by promoting the adoption of best practice measures, including the more efficient use of organic manures and fertilisers.

15 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

SEO 2: Maintain, enhance and restore priority habitats including woodlands, areas of remnant heathland, and the nationally and internationally important Norfolk Valley Fens, chalk river systems (including the River Wensum) and maritime cliff habitats. Seek opportunities to connect fragmented habitats, improving the area for biodiversity and recreation, and enhancing landscape character and resilience to climate change.

For example, by: ■ Maintaining the protected sites network – including the Norfolk Valley ■ Restoring wet grassland, fen and carr habitats in the Wensum River Fens, Overstrand Cliffs and River Wensum SAC – ensuring continued corridor. protection of priority habitats and species. ■ Modifying or removing barriers on river systems, where possible, to allow ■ Maintaining and enhancing areas of ancient semi-natural woodland and migrating fish passage, including brown trout. planting new areas of broadleaved woodland to address fragmentation. ■ Conserving areas with high organic content in soils, including wetlands, ■ Bringing local woodlands into traditional coppice management- to improve heathland and woodland. structural diversity and species composition. ■ Seeking opportunities to link fragmented habitats with other semi-natural ■ Increasing the biodiversity of conifer plantations by reintroducing native habitats to enable species to move in response to climate change. broadleaved trees. ■ Restoring and creating new areas of wetland habitats, including wet ■ Maintaining and enhancing existing areas of heathland on the Cromer Ridge grassland, fen and carr, to aid aquifer recharge. and to the north of Norwich, and restoring heathland habitat where possible. ■ Maintaining and enhancing the floristic diversity of lowland meadow and ■ Maintaining and enhancing maritime cliff habitats, encouraging the natural lowland heathland, and other semi-natural habitats, to increase the area succession of plant communities through the natural erosion of the soft of habitat suitable for pollinators. cliffs, and protecting the spring-fed, species-rich characteristic flushes. ■ Raising awareness of the problem of invasive species and adopting ■ Increasing the biodiversity of river valleys by restocking poplar plantations appropriate management for their control. with native wet woodland.

■ Investigating opportunities to re-naturalise river systems by removing structures and reconnecting rivers to their natural flood plains, especially on the important chalk rivers of the Wensum, Glaven and Stiffkey.

16 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

SEO 3: Conserve and enhance the historic character of the area while affording protection to heritage assets, biodiversity, geodiversity and water resources, and encouraging sustainable tourism and recreational use and also a sympathetic approach to development in coastal areas, around market towns and towards Norwich.

For example, by: ■ Ensuring that development plans are sensitive to preserving the historic ■ Managing public access to avoid adverse impacts on agricultural character of the landscape, promote the use of traditional building management, landscape, habitats and wildlife. materials and enhance traditional settlement patterns. ■ Ensuring that local development plans include the sustainable ■ Conserving country houses and parkland estates and encouraging management of water resources and promote measures to reduce their use as recreational and tourist attractions, while maintaining their adverse impacts on water quality in the future, including the use of biodiversity value. sustainable urban drainage systems, sewage treatment options and reducing nutrients from diffuse pollution. ■ Protecting existing areas of parkland and woodland associated with country estates. ■ Creating and enhancing green infrastructure and opportunities for public access by creating additional linkages between existing public ■ Ensuring the protection of heritage assets, including medieval churches footpaths, settlements, amenities and transport links. and the historic features of Norwich, while seeking opportunities to enhance interpretation and, where appropriate, improve access. ■ Creating new areas of greenspace in conjunction with new developments and identifying locations for new recreational sites such ■ Minimising the effects of new development by avoiding areas with high as country parks. tranquillity, incorporating green infrastructure and woodland buffers, and minimising new sources of light pollution. ■ Ensuring that the freshwater resource for internationally important river and wetland habitats is protected through the management of water ■ Improving and promoting the use of sustainable transport, including the abstraction levels, from rivers and the underlying aquifer, and through bus network, cycling and footpath routes. sustainable land and water management.

■ Promoting the Quiet Lanes Project and investigating opportunities to Continued on next page... expand the network and improve its effectiveness.

17 National Character 78. Central North Norfolk Area profile: Supporting documents

... continued from previous page ■ Maintaining water availability by using integrated water and land ■ Maintaining and enhancing the geological resource by identifying and management practices to slow run-off and increase infiltration to improving opportunities for enhanced access to sites and improving aquifers by reducing soil compaction and increasing soil organic matter understanding of geodiversity through interpretation and education. on agricultural land. ■ Conserving and interpreting archaeological earthworks and sub-surface ■ Protecting aquifer water quality by adopting land management practices and archaeology, while recognising the potential for undiscovered remains. integrated water management policies to minimise risks through pollution, contamination and run-off.

SEO 4: Ensure the sustainable development of the coastline and its coastal towns and villages, while protecting and enhancing its important geodiversity, encouraging natural coastal processes where possible, improving access and interpretation, and encouraging sustainable recreational use and visitor enjoyment while conserving sites with high biodiversity value including maritime cliff habitats.

For example, by: ■ Continuing to research, monitor and record coastal geomorphological ■ Continuing to research important Pleistocene sediment and fossil processes that shape the coastline, and the geology itself, to improve our deposits, and improving access to and interpretation of these features understanding and inform future management of the area. to help connect visitors and locals to their historic environment.

■ Implementing sustainable management plans, preventing coastal ■ Maintaining and enhancing maritime cliff habitats and slopes, erosion in the economically important towns of Cromer and encouraging the natural succession of plant communities through the Sheringham, and allowing natural coastal processes to take place natural erosion of the soft cliffs, and protecting the spring-fed species- elsewhere over the long term. rich characteristic flushes.

■ Exploring options for allowing natural coastal processes to take place ■ Improving and promoting the use of sustainable transport, including the unimpeded, while involving and taking the needs of the local community bus network, cycling and footpath routes. into account.

18 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

www.gov.uk/natural-england

1 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Introduction National Character Areas map As part of Natural England’s responsibilities as set out in the Natural Environment White Paper,1 Biodiversity 20202 and the European Landscape Convention,3 we are revising profiles for England’s 159 National Character Areas North (NCAs). These are areas that share similar landscape characteristics, and which East follow natural lines in the landscape rather than administrative boundaries, making them a good decision-making framework for the natural environment. Yorkshire & The North Humber NCA profiles are guidance documents which can help communities to inform West their decision-making about the places that they live in and care for. The information they contain will support the planning of conservation initiatives at a East landscape scale, inform the delivery of Nature Improvement Areas and encourage Midlands broader partnership working through Local Nature Partnerships. The profiles will West also help to inform choices about how land is managed and can change. Midlands East of Each profile includes a description of the natural and cultural features England that shape our landscapes, how the landscape has changed over time, the current key drivers for ongoing change, and a broad analysis of each London area’s characteristics and ecosystem services. Statements of Environmental South East Opportunity (SEOs) are suggested, which draw on this integrated information. South West The SEOs offer guidance on the critical issues, which could help to achieve sustainable growth and a more secure environmental future.

NCA profiles are working documents which draw on current evidence and knowledge. We will aim to refresh and update them periodically as new 1 The Natural Choice: Securing the Value of Nature, Defra information becomes available to us. (2011; URL: www.official-documents.gov.uk/document/cm80/8082/8082.pdf) 2 Biodiversity 2020: A Strategy for England’s Wildlife and Ecosystem Services, Defra We would like to hear how useful the NCA profiles are to you. You can contact the (2011; URL: www.defra.gov.uk/publications/files/pb13583-biodiversity-strategy-2020-111111.pdf) 3 European Landscape Convention, Council of Europe NCA team by [email protected]. (2000; URL: http://conventions.coe.int/Treaty/en/Treaties/Html/176.htm)

2 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Summary

The Broads National Character Area (NCA) is situated on the eastern edge of broads and on the flood plain of the middle and upper reaches of the valleys. East Anglia and is located predominantly in the county of Norfolk together with a small part of north Suffolk, between the peripheral urban areas of The low-lying marshes are traditionally unsettled, instilling a rather isolated Norwich in the west and Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft in the east. Some 94 character, while the pattern of settlement on the higher ground is clustered per cent of the NCA is open country and the remaining 6 per cent is urban. and linked by a minor road network that runs along the valley sides. A loose Its boundary follows the edge of the level, open marshland and valleys local vernacular of flint, pebble and brick, with pantiles and occasionally reed drained by the three principal rivers, the Yare, Bure and Waveney, and their thatch, adds cohesion to settlements. tributaries, the Thurne, Ant, Wensum and Chet, giving the NCA its very distinctive shape. The rivers flow east into the sheltered estuary of Breydon The ecologically rich wetland habitats form one of the finest and largest Water, which lies at the confluence to the Broads river system. marshland complexes in the United Kingdom. Iconic species include the secretive bittern (rarely seen but frequently heard booming during the breeding The whole area has become known for the shallow lakes, referred to as season), the marsh harrier, and swallowtail butterfly and fen orchid. The coastline ‘broads’ that are contained within the river valleys. These broads are the is also important for habitats such as dune heath and species including the effect of medieval excavations of peat that became flooded as sea levels natterjack toad, golden plover, little tern, and common and grey seals. rose. Since the 1950s the network of navigable rivers and areas of open water has assured that the Broads is a popular tourism and recreation destination, The importance of the Broads for principally for boating holidays, attracting over 7 million visitors annually.4 biodiversity and nature conservation is borne out by the many sites within The agricultural landscape is based on a long history of drainage to allow it afforded conservation status. livestock grazing interspersed with arable cropping, mainly for cereals, which Internationally designated sites cover is supported by the moderately fertile river valley and flood plain soils. 12 per cent of the NCA and include Woodland is limited, particularly across the coastal and flood plain marshes, the Broadland and Breydon Water although alder carr wet woodland is typical of the wetter areas surrounding the Ramsar site, three Special Protection

Click map to enlarge; click again to reduce 4 Broads Authority (2013; URL: http://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/education/about-the- broads.html) Click map to enlarge; click again to reduce

3 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Areas (SPA) and two Special Areas of Conservation (SAC). There are ten from land management potentially threaten the quality of water in the National Nature Reserves and numerous Sites of Special Scientific Interest Broads and the whole nature of the flood plain environment. Climate change (SSSI) that together cover 12 per cent of the land area. There are also 103 local and rising sea levels add further challenges as well as opportunities for the conservation sites covering 3 per cent of the NCA. landscape and local communities in this diverse and unique NCA.

In the north-east the NCA meets the wild and open expanse of the North Sea along the 14 km stretch of coast between Happisburgh and Winterton- on-Sea. Approximately two-thirds of this coastline – 3 per cent of the NCA – lies within the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), designated in 1968 to recognise the national importance of the Norfolk coast landscape. The Norfolk and Suffolk Broads Act 1988 recognised the area’s special qualities and constituted the Broads and some of the surrounding land – 52 per cent of the NCA – as equivalent in status to a national park. It is the only wetland national park area in the United Kingdom.

Today managing the Broads and its use is based on sustainable, integrated management of conservation, recreation and navigation interests. Challenges exist because, despite the extent of the navigable network in the Broads, very little use is made of the water as a means of public transport, with access mostly by car. In some areas, infill development is altering traditional settlement patterns and the quality and distinctiveness of the built environment. In recent years improvements have been made – through conservation efforts supported by agri-environment practices, and new initiatives in sewage treatment and the boating industry – resulting in 38 per cent of SSSI being in a favourable condition. However, many wildlife sites are currently in a poor condition, although 35 per cent are recovering. The increase

in non-native species, seasonal variability in river flows, depleted groundwater Lower reaches of the Yare with wide grazing levels, isolated farms and wind pump relics. resources, incursion of saltwater from tidal flooding, and diffuse pollution

4 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Statements of Environmental Opportunities:

■■ SEO 1: Conserve and enhance the distinctive historic landscape of the ■■ SEO 4: Improve opportunities to enhance people’s enjoyment of the Broads, which is of national and international significance for its heritage area while protecting high levels of tranquillity by conserving intimate and biodiversity interest, through securing and expanding the open Broadland valleys and extensive coast and marshland views, which water, riverine and estuarine habitats which are vulnerable to abstraction, contribute to sense of place, and conserve and promote the geodiversity, flooding, vegetation succession and altered land management. Manage archaeology and historical evidence of past human settlement and the provision and quality of water in the whole catchment for human and landscape change. ecological benefit.

■■ SEO 2: Conserve and manage the nationally significant coastal landscape, including that within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – between Sea Palling and Winterton-on-Sea – by implementing strategies to adapt to coastal change and sea level rise that are consistent with the current north-east Norfolk Shoreline Management Plan. Work with coastal processes as far as possible, while enhancing people’s enjoyment of the area through improving its unique assemblage of coastal habitats and increasing opportunities for sustainably managed access to support recreation and education.

■■ SEO 3: Maintain a sustainable and productive agricultural landscape while expanding and connecting semi-natural habitats to benefit biodiversity, and improve soil and water quality by promoting sustainable farming practices that are able to adapt to changing agricultural economics and the considerable challenge of climate change, and comply with regulations on nitrate vulnerable zones. Reedbeds and ponds on the Mid Yare National Nature Reserve shape the distinctive historic landscape of the Broads.

5 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Description The arable clay plateau landscape of South Norfolk and High Suffolk Claylands abuts The Broads NCA in the south. Here the Yare and Waveney Physical and functional links to other National river valley corridors of riparian vegetation intertwine the two NCAs. A large Character Areas proportion of the catchments of these two Broadland rivers as well as the catchment of the River Tas are found within this adjacent NCA.

There are strong visual, physical and functional links between the low-lying Broads and the higher land of the five neighbouring National Character Areas (NCAs), all of which have open views down and across the Broadland river valley flood plains and coastal plain. Views out of the Broads are subsequently either up the enclosed river valleys towards the elevated arable plateaux of the surrounding NCAs that form the horizon line, or out to the coast and seascape.

The Broads NCA follows the flood plains of three major tidal rivers and their tributaries which dissect the surrounding landscape. The ecological status of the wetland habitats and many of the ecosystem values within the Broads are critically dependent on sustainable water management and land use practices upstream in the extensive catchment, most of which lies outside The Broads NCA, as these directly affect the quality and quantity of both groundwater and surface water sources.

In the west the arable upper valleys of the rivers Wensum and Bure interlink with the more varied, wooded terrain of Central North Norfolk NCA, which, on its eastern flanks, shares a similar geology of crag and clay deposits.

To the south-east of Norwich in the upper reaches of the Yare valley, the Broads

meets the Mid Norfolk NCA which is interlinked by the catchments of the Yare, Wetland habitats including remnants of the traditionally wet grassland and grazing marsh. Wensum and Tud, which drain the upper arable plateau of Mid Norfolk.

6 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Distinct areas In the far south-east The Broads NCA merges with the heathy character of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths NCA with its mixed mosaic of farmland, heathland, ■■ Halvergate and Haddiscoe Island marshland triangle coniferous woodland and coastal wetlands. This NCA also has its own broads which help make up the landscape area known as the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. ■■ The coastline between Happisburgh and Winterton-on-Sea

North East Norfolk and Flegg NCA borders The Broads NCA to the north and east where it occupies the higher ground surrounding the flood plain. It is intimately linked and shares similar fertile landscape characteristics. The Broads NCA divides the North East Norfolk and Flegg NCA by occupying the lowland along the coast between Happisburgh and Winterton-on-Sea. The NCA also contains 1,694 hectares of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) which it shares with the Central North Norfolk, North Norfolk Coast and North West Norfolk NCAs.

The geomorphological processes of erosion and sediment transfer from the soft sea cliffs to the north between Sheringham and Happisburgh, are important in helping to maintain the beaches and sand dunes further south at Horsey, as well as the continued evolution of coastal landscape as seen at Winterton Ness. It also underpins coastal management by functionally linking the Central North Norfolk and North East Norfolk and Flegg NCAs with the Broads NCA. This is a vital link as the beach and dunes provide a natural defence that helps shield the large area of low-lying hinterland of the Broads from coastal flooding during storms.

Natural erosion of the soft crumbling sea cliffs at Happisburgh.

7 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Key characteristics

■■ The landscape is low-lying with some areas below sea level and has ■■ Glacial deposits of outwash gravels and till are in many places overlain characteristic open, extensive views over slow meandering rivers, by peaty, loamy and clayey flood plain alluvial soils. Where drainage drained marshland and coastal plain in the lower valley flood plain. has been carried out, the fertile soils support arable production while Views inland are framed by the tree-lined valley ridge lines. in the wetter areas grazing marsh is common.

■■ The middle, upper and narrow incised side valley tributaries are small- ■■ Field patterns are principally defined by drainage over most of the scale, low and enclosed, often supporting woodland. Broads. Regular 18th- and 19th-century enclosure fields (generally marshland) are clearly defined by straight, reed-fringed drainage ■■ Rivers dominate the landscape with the middle and lower river reaches ditches that form a strongly geometric layout across the lower flood flowing between flood banks, above the level of the surrounding land plain. Some earlier curvilinear enclosure of marshland also survives. which is drained by dykes, ditches and pumps. ■■ Much of the Broads is remote and isolated with settlements clustering on ■■ The broads, which are former flooded peat workings, form naturally higher ground inland, linked by the few roads that run along the valley nutrient-rich shallow lakes of various sizes surrounded by fens, wet sides. Isolated farmhouses are the most significant buildings in the marshes. woodland and large expanses of reedbed, rich in biodiversity. ■■ Vertical features are very distinctive in this generally flat landscape and ■■ Woodland cover is generally sparse, especially in the marshland area. include some very fine medieval churches on the higher ground and Small areas of mainly deciduous woodland occur around the broads. several traditional drainage mills located on embankments flanking Carr woodland and willow pollards are typical of the wetter areas, while some of the drainage channels on the marshes and coastal plain. broadleaved woodland is present as copses and plantations on higher land. ■■ Small boatyards and marinas form part of the traditional riverside ■■ The dynamic coastal landscape from Happisburgh to Winterton-on- scenery although, increasingly, extensive modern boatyard/marina Sea is semi-natural in character with soft, eroding and mobile maritime developments challenge the traditional character. cliffs and long, sweeping stretches of shifting sand and shingle beach habitat, backed by a coastal vegetated dune ridge.

8 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

■■ Traditional buildings make use of flint, pebble and brick walls, with pantiles and rare surviving reed thatch.

■■ The road system is limited and follows the edge of the rising land, although footpaths and boat access are extensive. Key river crossing points include bridges at Wroxham/Hoveton, Potter Heigham, Acle, Haddiscoe, Great Yarmouth, Norwich, Beccles and Bungay.

■■ Three railway lines cross the Broads area, serving a number of smaller settlements between Norwich, Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

■■ The sense of tranquillity and wildness is integral to the distinctiveness of the Broads, inspiring many writers, artists and naturalists and increasing its popularity as a recreation and tourist destination, which is notable within the popular villages particularly during the summer months.

Traditional reed thatched boat sheds at Hickling.

9 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Statements of Environmental Opportunity

SEO 1: Conserve and enhance the distinctive historic landscape of the Broads, which is of national and international significance for its heritage and biodiversity interest, through securing and expanding the open water, riverine and estuarine habitats which are vulnerable to abstraction, flooding, vegetation succession and altered land management. Manage the provision and quality of water in the whole catchment for human and ecological benefit.

For example, by: adjacent flood plain, managing water quality and availability to achieve ■■ Working with landowners, partners and communities to restore the a favourable ecological condition while securing their natural and connectivity of key habitats across the landscape, reinstating and cultural value and the associated benefits. extending wet grassland and grazing marsh for breeding waders (for ■■ Identifying and developing strategies to mitigate some of the impacts example, lapwing, redshank and snipe) and overwintering wildfowl, and of saltwater incursion – for example, through the creation of washlands expanding and creating new habitats and ecological networks for species. and new wetlands to moderate flooding of existing wildlife sites. ■■ Maintaining and, where necessary, improving the condition of the ■■ Promoting initiatives that facilitate re-wetting the drained flood Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and continuing to conserve and plain to create new fenland habitat at the upstream extent of the protect the valuable habitats and species in the Broads’ three Special system, restore watermeadows, undertake flood plain planting of wet Protection Areas (SPA), two Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and ten woodland, and restore the structure and function of river channels National Nature Reserves. which in turn will maintain water levels. ■■ Facilitating the ability of viable agricultural businesses to undertake more ■■ Working in partnership with the Norfolk Non-native Species Initiative tailored agricultural and conservation management to support the range to reduce threats posed by non-native species colonisation of the open of riverine and estuarine wetland habitats and landscapes, incorporating water, riverine and estuarine habitats. uncultivated margins and established habitat to protect watercourses in ■■ Working in partnership with landowners and farmers to conserve and order to support rare species such as the otter, bittern and holly-leaved enhance the deciduous woodland, copses, plantations and hedgerows naiad, together with milk parsley, ragged robin and meadow thistle on the higher ground of the valley sides and tops and prioritise the which are vital food plants for the rare swallowtail butterfly. management of fen carr wet woodland along the valley bottoms to benefit ■■ Enhancing the management of wetland habitats, including ditch the provision and quality of water in the catchment, while securing their systems and river corridors, through the adaptive management of the natural, cultural and economic value and the associated benefits.

21 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

SEO 2: Conserve and manage the nationally significant coastal landscape, including that within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – between Sea Palling and Winterton-on-Sea – by implementing strategies to adapt to coastal change and sea level rise that are consistent with the current north-east Norfolk Shoreline Management Plan. Work with coastal processes as far as possible, while enhancing people’s enjoyment of the area through improving its unique assemblage of coastal habitats and increasing opportunities for sustainably managed access to support recreation and education.

For example, by: ■■Establishing a programme of community engagement to explain the opportunities for sustainable access and outdoor recreation on land vulnerability of the Broads to climate change and the interdependence adjacent to the coast, through clear signposting and interpretation between the wetlands of the Upper Thurne and the Winterton– for both local people and visitors, that improve health, wellbeing and Horsey dune system, identifying local concerns and aspirations to enjoyment of the environment. inform adaptation planning, and encouraging and promoting local ■■Facilitating the Broads Flood Alleviation Project to adapt to coastal volunteering opportunities for people to become engaged with the change and sea level rise and seeking new opportunities for access natural environment. enhancements to the flood plain and river systems. ■■Promoting and delivering climate change adaptation measures, such as ■■Working in partnership, in line with the north-east Norfolk (Kelling to the Connecting Wetlands project, using the ecosystem services approach Lowestoft Ness) Shoreline Management Plan, to ensure that dynamic to develop wider understanding of the operation of natural processes. coastal processes continue and conserve the range of estuarine, coastal ■■Ensuring that the coastal dunes are conserved and protected from and wetland habitats that contribute to landscape character and damage resulting from recreational pressure, through the development of support the wide range of wildlife. a strategy for coastal public access management, so that they continue to function as a natural coastal flood defence of the low-lying hinterland. ■■Raising awareness of the important sensitive habitats and the wildlife that the coastal environment supports, through clear signposting and interpretation, to improve the quality of understanding and enjoyment of the coastal environments and associated habitats and species (such as coastal dunes, little tern, golden plover, and common and grey seals). ■■Working in partnership with landowners and farmers to achieve Coastal dune heath and wet dune slacks provide a habitat for natterjack toads and great crested newts. mutually satisfactory objectives, managing and promoting

22 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

SEO 3: Maintain a sustainable and productive agricultural landscape while expanding and connecting semi-natural habitats to benefit biodiversity, and improve soil and water quality by promoting sustainable farming practices that are able to adapt to changing agricultural economics and the considerable challenge of climate change, and comply with regulations on nitrate vulnerable zones.

For example, by: ■■Encouraging sustainable farming practices and the diversification of improvements in order to prevent deterioration of water quality caused cropping and livestock to support the continued production of food by soil erosion and nutrient leaching (which will also have negative supplied to local and national markets and the financial security of rural effects on the semi-natural habitats of the Broads). businesses. ■■Continuing to bring derelict reedbeds and sedgebeds into regular ■■Encouraging increased uptake of agri-environment schemes and management and promote use of fen litter for biomass and new options that facilitate re-wetting the flood plain, to reactivate peat commercial uses for hay and reed such as reed faggots. formation and promote carbon sequestration, and are targeted at ■■Reconnecting rivers and their flood plains and the restoration of marginal expanding and connecting ecological networks to benefit biodiversity reedswamp and salt marsh, where appropriate, to increase the use of river such as increasing farmland bird populations. valleys for the storage of floodwaters, aquifer recharge, and restoring and ■■Ensure that advice is provided to support and enable sustainable farming creating new wetland habitats where not at risk from saline incursion and practices to be carried out efficiently, including follow-up monitoring and where this will not compromise water quality in the ditch systems. advice, to help inform future land management decisions. ■■Facilitating the ability of viable agricultural businesses to undertake ■■Working in partnership with farmers to encourage the uptake of more tailored agricultural and conservation management to support the agri-environment options that harvest and conserve water, protect range of drier habitats and landscapes of the hinterland, incorporating watercourses and prevent water quality deterioration by reducing uncultivated margins to arable fields in order to support rare arable diffuse pollution and ensuring compliance with regulations on nitrate weeds and farmland bird species. vulnerable zones to manage fertiliser inputs. ■■Encouraging the management and, where necessary, the replanting of ■■Working in partnership with farmers to encourage the appropriate damaged field boundary hedgerows on the valley sides, upper valleys design and sensitive siting of new on-farm water storage, which will help and tops to strengthen the traditional pastoral landscape character of to reduce the impact of water abstraction and enhance biodiversity and this area of the Broads, which is known for its thick, mature hedgerows landscape character. with dense rows of trees, and assisting the linking of semi-natural ■■Working in partnership with farmers to encourage soil management habitats to benefit biodiversity and improve water quality.

Continued on next page

23 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

SEO3 continued

■■Encouraging the creation of new woodland to expand and connect communities to increase appropriate-scale generation of heat, utilising semi-natural habitats benefiting biodiversity and water quality, where woody biomass for woodchip boilers where it is sustainable to do so. this does not compromise other, more ecologically valuable, habitat or This will in turn bring further opportunities for improved woodland result in the loss of valley flood plain transitions. management, while being mindful of locally valued landscape ■■Encouraging local farm businesses, isolated properties and small characteristics and sensitive landscapes, habitats and associated species.

SEO 4: Improve opportunities to enhance people’s enjoyment of the area while protecting high levels of tranquillity by conserving intimate Broadland valleys and extensive coast and marshland views, which contribute to sense of place, and conserve and promote the geodiversity, archaeology and historical evidence of past human settlement and landscape change.

For example, by: ■■ Working in partnership with landowners, farmers, local businesses and the character of the area, through appropriate measures and seeking to reduce Broads Authority to promote the NCA as an area of natural beauty and one conflicting or unsympathetic management regimes while recognising the that affords opportunities for open-air recreation, focusing on ecotourism high potential in this landscape for undiscovered remains. as a mechanism to reduce environmental damage caused by tourism ■■ Managing visitor pressures at popular and sensitive sites by investing in pressure to ensure that the Broads is maintained as a unique and inspiring high-quality infrastructure and interpretation that is designed to provide landscape with its own sense of place and historical significance. equality of opportunity, meeting the different needs and levels of use of ■■ Strengthening opportunities to sustainably manage recreation in order to a range of visitors, including local communities, recreational day visitors meet the demand of visitors wishing to enjoy water-based interest; which and tourists, and enhancing the experience without being the cause of contribute significantly to the character and local economy of the area. damage or degradation of the Broads’ natural assets and tranquillity. ■■ Strengthening opportunities for visitors to enjoy natural and cultural ■■ Working in partnership with the holiday and leisure businesses to heritage by providing them with a wide range of opportunities to encourage best practice to ensure that measures are taken to control light experience, enjoy and understand the special natural environment and and noise pollution to reduce disturbance, enhancing people’s enjoyment heritage of the Broads. of the area by protecting high levels of tranquillity where appropriate. ■■ Managing and conserving heritage assets as an integral part of the historic

Continued on next page

24 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

SEO4 continued

■■ Managing and promoting public rights of way by linking existing public footpaths, settlements and long-distance paths (for example, Weavers’ Way, Wherryman’s Way and the Bure Valley Path) as well as supporting improvements for cycling in the NCA in order to enhance sustainable tourism and recreational opportunities and ensure a high-quality experience for all users. ■■ Maintaining and promoting the key physical, historical and cultural elements that provide local identity, amenity and aesthetic value to the area’s historic landscape character (for example, traditional farmsteads and buildings, wind pumps, staithes and boatsheds), ensuring that these are retained and actively managed while allowing the landscape to continue to evolve and reflect the interactions between people and the environment. ■■ Promoting the links between the geological landscape evidence, the historical evidence of human activity and the biological interest of the area to achieve a wider understanding of the formation and the importance of the Broads landscape. ■■ Conserving features distinctive to the Broads that are highly rare and distinctive in a national context, including early brickwork, reed thatch, round church towers, windmills and the traditional riverside buildings, boatyards and other waterfront industry (and views to them) that often have a strong visual impact in the landscape.

The golden sand shoreline at Waxham with coastal defence structures and backed by dunes.

25 National Character 80. The Broads Area profile: Supporting documents

Additional opportunity

1: Encourage measures that lead to the enhancement of existing settlements and new developments providing more widely associated social and cultural benefits through the provision and management of high-quality green infrastructure networks.

For example, by: ■■Conserving and appropriately managing the area’s sense of place ■■Establishing a planning and design approach that enables appropriate within the built environment and using this understanding, and the sustainable development within the Broads flood plain, including area’s distinct patterns of settlement, to plan for and inspire new use of experimental and innovative techniques (for example, floating development. buildings) while maintaining the high levels of tranquillity associated ■■Ensuring that high-quality green infrastructure is considered in all new with much of the area, especially where there is currently little building projects, encouraging developers and planners to consider this settlement or infrastructure intrusion. aspect at the outset of scheme design with the aim of promoting space ■■Investigating ways of securing better management of heritage assets for wildlife and outdoor recreation. that contribute to the character of the area, particularly those that have ■■Promoting the use of traditional building materials such as flint, pebble and been identified as ‘heritage at risk’. brick, and reed thatch in building restoration or new development, where this would be appropriate, to enhance the character of the local area. ■■Supporting the use of historic and landscape characterisations to inform change, and encouraging their use in community-based planning to help to identify locally valued townscapes, rural landscapes and heritage assets.

26 BROADLAND DISTRICT COUNCIL LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Landscape Character Assessment Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

September 2013 98

Summary of Visual Character

3.9.3 This Landscape Character Type forms the transition zone between the elevated plateau edge and marshes which line the Broads river valleys. This is a gently and subtly sloping landscape, which slopes from the low-lying Broads landscapes up to the 10m contours. The underlying geology of sands and gravels are often visible at the surface of this landscape, which has a patchwork land cover of arable farmland, interspersed with small copses of woodland, which are dotted along the slopes.

3.9.4 As a result of the gently sloping landform, open views can be gained across the slopes and also across adjacent marshes lining the Broads River Valleys. Settlement pattern is strong, with a series of small, often historic settlements linked with exploitation of the adjacent marshes or Broads. Pockets of Alder Carr woodland contribute to overall woodland cover and sense of enclosure. Field boundaries often consist of low ditches or banks.

3.9.5 A network of minor roads cross the landscape, providing access to the small villages and connecting with adjacent Landscape Character Types. There is a strong rural character throughout.

Historic Environment Character

3.9.6 During early Roman times, the marsh fringe settlements marked the shoreline of the Halvergate estuary. As the estuary gradually silted, the marshes were drained and exploited, as is demonstrated by the present day marsh fringe parish boundaries that extend into the adjacent marshes. Today, the field pattern is dominated by 10th century agriculture.

3.9.7 Settlement pattern consists of a series of dispersed, small to large, nucleated, often historic settlements with a strong vernacular character, which sit on the edge of the higher plateau land, at the edges of the slopes. The settlement pattern was established early and certainly by the Medieval period. Within settlements, traditional buildings cluster together around a strong historic core. Some settlements contain groups of modern houses and bungalows, located on infill sites within the settlement core. Settlements often have a closely linked historical relationship with exploitation of the adjacent marshes and Broads. Traditional buildings in villages are generally made of red brick and flint.

Ecological Character

3.9.8 The ecological character of this landscape character type is dominated by the following habitats:

 Unreclaimed wetland  Unreclaimed marshland  Open water  Carr woodland  Species-rich fen  Marsh dyke

Landscape Character Assessment SPD 99  Unimproved meadows  Grazing marsh

3.9.9 The Nature conservation value of these habitats is recognised by the following designations:

 Bure Marshes National Nature Reserve (NNR), Bure Broads and Marshes Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) are also part of (a) the Broads SAC, (b) Broadland Special Protection Area (SPA) and (c) Broadland Ramsar Site recognising the international importance of the area.  Upton Broads and Marshes Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI)  South Walsham Fen Local Nature Reserve (LNR)  Brundall Church Fen Local Nature Reserve (LNR)

Key Forces for Change

3.9.10 The following Key Forces for Change have been identified for the Marshes Fringe Landscape Character Type

 Potential interruption of views to adjacent Broads marshland landscapes as a result of the introduction of small-scale new development;  Decline in the management of hedgerows and clumps of mature woodland;  Potential farm diversification, resulting in conversion of agricultural buildings to houses and recreational facilities;  Increased pressure on rural roads and lanes associated with increased tourism;  Small-scale or incremental development within villages, which may be inconsistent with local built character and materials;  Changes in woodland cover because of changes in management;  Potential loss of small pits, ponds and extraction sites due to infill.

Evaluation

Landscape Condition and Strength of Character

3.9.11 This Landscape Character Type has a generally strong and distinctly recognisable sense of place throughout, even though built structures are discrete, other than small villages which nestle on the edges of the marshes. Overall condition of elements within the types is considered to be good, with evidence of gappy hedgerows confined to a few, discrete locations.

Management Strategies and Objectives

3.9.12 The overall strategy for the Marshes Fringe Landscape Character Type should be to conserve the mature woodland copses and open views across adjacent marshland landscapes from several locations. Specific management objectives are to:

 Seek to conserve and enhance the landscape structure within the area, including blocks and belts of woodland, copses of mature trees, mature parkland trees and intact hedgerows;

Landscape Character Assessment SPD 100  Seek opportunities for catchment sensitive farming to help protect the River Yare;  Seek creation of semi-natural habitats along the edge of the Broads European Sites to buffer and enhance adjacent habitats;  Seek to conserver small pits, ponds and extraction sites;  Seek to conserve and enhance viewpoints over the adjacent marshes, broads and rivers.

3.9.13 Within this Landscape Character Type, the following Landscape Character Areas have been defined:

F1: Wroxham to Ranworth F2: South Walsham to Reedham F3: Reedham to Thorpe

3.9.14 A summary of each area’s visual character, inherent landscape sensitivities and landscape planning guidelines are set out below.

F1: WROXHAM TO RANWORTH

Summary of visual character

3.9.15 Following the wooded slopes of the lower reaches of the River Bure, this character area encompasses a linear strip of land, defined by the 10m contour, forming a fringe to the lower-lying flat landscapes of the Broads. Within this area, land gently descends from the 10m contour towards the Broads. Land becomes increasingly undulating where minor tributaries incise the area, forming shallow valleys.

3.9.16 Land use within the area is strongly influenced by adjacent agricultural land to the south and the Broads. The land is almost exclusively in arable cultivation, interspersed with pockets of pasture in places, forming a continuation of farmland for the south. Carr woodland that often defines the Broads landscape is an important feature, enclosing views and evoking a sense of intimacy by the strong wooded horizon. Copses and belts of woodland (coniferous and deciduous) and mature trees further enclose the area, adding interest and contribute to a gradual transition between farmland and woodland.

3.9.17 Settlements that fall within this area are generally linear in form. Today the settlement pattern reflects a long history of development, scattered with historic halls, villages and isolated farmsteads. The settlements have many historic buildings and features and a strong local vernacular. As many of the settlements have not been influenced by modern development growth, the historic core holds a fairly intact rural setting, allowing distinctive views across farmland to vernacular buildings such as St Helen's Church, Ranworth. An exception is Wroxam, whose nucleated settlement form and transport routes have outweighed the extent of the historic core. This is largely due to its connections across the Bure valley, to Northern parts of Norfolk. The architecture and landscape of the large houses and halls on the edge of the Broads, such as Woodbastwick Hall, are important historic features within the area, and strongly contribute to the area’s rich and distinctive character.

Landscape Character Assessment SPD 106  Ensure that any new development responds to historic settlement pattern and is well integrated into the surrounding landscape;  Seek to ensure the sensitive location of development involving tall structures (such as steel pylons and telecommunication masts) in relation to prominent skyline locations both within the character area and within adjacent character areas;  Seek to ensure that potential new small-scale development within villages is consistent with the existing settlement pattern, density and traditional built form;  Conserve the landscape setting of small villages (such as South Walsham and Upton);  Seek to conserve the landscape setting of market towns and villages, and seek to screen (where possible) harsh settlement edges and existing visual detractors;  Seek to conserve the landscape setting of historic houses, halls and churches;  Seek to promote use of local vernacular buildings materials, including red brick and pantiles;  Seek to ensure new development does not reduce the vertical significance of important historical and architectural features within the landscape, such as church towers;  Seek to conserve blocks of carr woodland at the edge of Halvergate Marshes.

F3: REEDHAM TO THORPE

Summary of visual character

3.9.27 Following the partly wooded slopes of the lower reaches of the River Yare, this character area encompasses a linear strip of land, defined by the 10m contour, forming a fringe to the lower-lying flat landscapes of the Broads. Within this area, land gently descends in a southerly direction from the 10m contour towards the Broads. Land becomes increasingly undulating where minor tributaries incise the area, forming shallow valleys.

3.9.28 Land use within the area is strongly influenced by adjacent agricultural land to the north and the Broads. The land is almost exclusively in arable cultivation, interspersed with pockets of pasture in places, forming a continuation of plateau and tributary farmland for the west. The hedgerow structure within the area has been substantially fragmented. Remnant hedge boundaries and mature isolated hedgerow trees assume greater significant in views across arable fields. Large blocks of carr woodland that often define the Broads landscape enclose northerly and easterly views, often evoking a sense of intimacy by the strong wooded horizon. Copses and belts of woodland (coniferous and deciduous) and mature trees further enclose the area, adding interest and contribute to a gradual transition between farmland and woodland. Pockets of carr woodland are also interesting landscape features.

Landscape Character Assessment SPD 112 A2 D3

E2F1 Wroxham F1

E4 F2

E3 D4 Acle

C2 Brundall F3

KEY LCA F3

Study Area Boundary

0 500 1,000 m Broads Authority Area This map is based on Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. OS Licence Number 100018156 - 2007 within Broadland District S:\projects\11107301 Broadland LCA\GIS\Projects\11107301_LCAs\11107301_LCA_F3.mxd Landscape Character Area F3: CHRIS BLANDFORD ASSOCIATES BROADLAND DISTRICT LANDSCAPE www.cba.uk.net Reedham to Thorpe Marshes CHARACTER ASSESSMENT MARCH 2008 Fringe 108

3.9.29 The settlement pattern reflects a long history of development, scattered with historic halls, villages and isolated farmsteads. Settlements within this area have generally evolved from a linear settlement core, forming a series of small and large nucleated villages at the edge of the Broads. The settlements have many historic buildings and features and a strong local vernacular. Many of the settlements have been influenced by modern development growth, such as Brundall, who’s nucleated settlement form following transport routes alongside the Yare Valley have outweighed the extent of the historic core. This is largely due to its connections across the Broads landscape, to Norwich and eastern parts of Norfolk. Cantly has also experience recent growth, mainly associated with the establishment of a sugar beet factory between the River Yare and Norwich to Great Yarmouth/Lowestoft railway. Its chimneys and large holding tanks form prominent features in views from the local and wider landscape.

3.9.30 The linear historic core of some villages still hold a fairly intact rural setting, allowing distinctive views across farmland to vernacular buildings such as St Mary’s church. The architecture and rural landscape setting isolated churches on the edge of the Broads, are important historic features within the area, and strongly contribute to the area’s rich and distinctive character.

3.9.31 The area comprises a fairly complex road network, with lanes and narrow roads lining field boundaries and offering connections to the Broads. The Norwich to Great Yarmouth/Lowestoft railway passes through the area at Postwick, and follows the edge of the Broads. The railway splits at Reedham; offering services to Great Yarmouth or Lowestoft. Enclosure from landform, blocks of woodland and urban massing, reduce its influence to a large extent. There are several marine and pedestrian access points to the Broads within the area, including Wherryman’s Way National Trail, which links to the Broads at Reedham. Traditional industries such as boatyards, and more recently riverside marina estates, further highlight the area’s strong association with the Broads. Collectively, the area has a strong sense of place, and there are few visual detractors to its character. The strong, low wooded horizons produced by large blocks of carr at the edge of the Yare Valley Marshes are a particular feature.

Evaluation

Inherent Landscape Sensitivities

3.9.32 The following landscape sensitivities have been identified:

 Mosaic of arable fields, pockets of pasture and woodland, providing a diverse and interesting landscape character;  Mature landscape structure including substantial blocks and belts of carr woodland, copses of mature trees and intact hedgerows, providing an interesting visual mosaic;  Subtle features of the historic landscape, such as remnant hedgerows, which are not protected, and are vulnerable to change and loss;  Landscape setting of historic houses, halls and churches;

Landscape Character Assessment SPD 109  Sparse settlement in the form of ancient linear hamlets and isolated farmsteads. Their landscape setting and cohesive building materials is vulnerable to unsympathetic additions or extensions, which would disrupt the largely intact built character;  Nucleated market towns with a strong historic core;  Distinctive low wooded horizons;  Strong sense of place;  Characteristic views across the farmland to landmark churches, often isolated and amid woodland;  Potential loss of small pits and extraction sites due to infilling.

Landscape Planning Guidelines

3.9.33 The following Landscape Planning Guidelines apply to Reedham to Thorpe Marshes Fringe Landscape Character Area:

 Seek to conserve the diverse and interesting landscape pattern and character.  Seek to conserve the wildlife habitats characteristic of the Marshes Fringe and adjacent Broads landscape including watercourses and broads, fens, carr woodland and grazing marshes.  Seek to conserve distinctive, historic architectural and landscape features including historic halls and their setting, which contribute to the area’s rich historic character and strong sense of place.  Ensure that any new development responds to historic settlement pattern and is well integrated into the surrounding landscape.  Seek to ensure the sensitive location of development involving further tall structures (such as factories, steel pylons and telecommunication masts) in relation to prominent skyline locations both within the character area and within adjacent character areas.  Seek to ensure that potential new small-scale development within villages is consistent with the existing settlement pattern, density and traditional built form.  Conserve the landscape setting of small villages (such as Limpenhoe).  Seek to conserve the landscape setting of market towns and villages, and seek to screen (where possible) harsh settlement edges and existing visual detractors.  Seek to conserve the landscape setting of historic houses, halls and churches.  Seek to promote use of local vernacular buildings materials, including red brick and pantiles.  Seek to ensure new development does not reduce the vertical significance of important historical and architectural features within the landscape, such as church towers;  Seek to conserve small pits and extraction sites.

Landscape Character Assessment SPD Stansted: Bristol: Nottingham: Unit 1, The Exchange, 1 Host Street, Suite 201, 9 Station Road, Bristol, BS1 5BU 20 Fletcher Gate, Stansted, CM24 8BE Nottingham NG1 2FZ

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