Landscape Architecture Masterplanning Ecology

Farnham Landscape Character Assessment

August 2018

Issue 03

hankinson duckett associates telephone: 01491 838175 email: [email protected] website: www.hda-enviro.co.uk post: The Stables, Howbery Park, Benson Lane, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8BA Hankinson Duckett Associates Limited Registered in & Wales 3462810 Registered Office: The Stables, Howbery Park, Benson Lane, Wallingford, OX10 8BA CONTENTS PAGE NUMBER

1 Introduction 1

2 Methodology 2

3 Designations and Policy Context 4

4 Landscape Structural Analysis 6

5 Landscape Character Areas 13

6 Summary 34

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This Landscape Character Assessment was prepared by Hankinson Duckett Associates (HDA). The study was commissioned and funded by Farnham Town Council. 1. Introduction 1.1 This Landscape Character Assessment has been commissioned by Farnham Town Council to inform an update to the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan. The brief for the assessment seeks to assess the landscape character within Farnham Town Council boundary (the study area) and to determine its local landscape value and sensitivity.

1.2 This Landscape Character Assessment is based on current good practice and recognised methodology. It identifies character areas within Farnham Town Council boundary (the study area), which have been assessed so as to define the character of the landscape and setting to the town.

1.3 Natural England describes landscape character as the landscape features which make an area unique. It is defined as “a distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements, be it natural (soil, landform) and/or human (for example settlement and development) in the landscape that makes one landscape different from another“ (An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment, 2014).

1.4 The report divides the landscape into areas of common landscape character, listing the key landscape characteristics, landscape sensitivity and value of each area. This analysis will highlight areas of the Parish which are sensitive, have a high value and where future development would be inappropriate. Landscape sensitivity and value may not be completely uniform across an entire Character Area and, where relevant, this has been referred to in the Key Characteristics of the character area.

Figure 1: Farnham Town Council boundary

1 2. METHOD STATEMENT 2.1 Introduction ▪▪ The nature of the settlement edge and relationship to existing built form; 2.1.1 The approach to this study followed best practice promoted by Natural ▪▪ Settlement morphology (including form and setting); England, as set out in the Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for ▪▪ Settlement visual envelope and intervisibility; England and Scotland (2002) and Topic Paper 6, and reaffirmed by Natural ▪▪ Setting of the outstanding assets; England’s 2014 ‘An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment’. ▪▪ The location/extent of major constraints to future development.

2.2 Baseline 2.3 Field Assessment 2.2.1 Baseline data has been be collated and analysed and mapped in zones to 2.4 Field survey work was undertaken in May and June 2018 to confirm and refine cover all the sites to the considered, in order to identify existing landscape the baseline desk study, recording characteristics that cannot be recorded via features, views and the main elements which contribute to the character, the desk study alone, and informing the analysis and assessment set out structure and setting of each site. in Stage 4. Findings were recorded onto survey sheets, OS mapping and Mapping has included: annotated copies of the structural analysis overlays. Subsequent visits to the ▪▪ Geology and soils; Parish were undertaken, to test/confirm initial assessment work. ▪▪ Topography; ▪▪ Land use and landscape features (based initially on aerial photography and 2.4 Identification of Character Areas OS mapping); 2.4.1 Drawing on the baseline work, field assessment and landscape structure ▪▪ Regional and county landscape character types and areas, and associated analysis, the study area is then divided into Parish-scale Landscape Character guidelines; Areas, which possess consistent characteristics. Character Area boundaries ▪▪ Local and Neighbourhood Plan designations including local landscape, are defined by recognisable landscape features. nature conservation, and heritage designation; ▪▪ Extent of existing built development (settlement); 2.4.2 Summary descriptions of each Character Area were compiled in accordance ▪▪ Listed buildings, Conservation Areas, registered parks/gardens, Scheduled with the guidelines. Monuments; ▪▪ Public rights of way (including long distance footpaths etc) and notable 2.5 Analysis and Assessment view points; 2.5.1 Drawing together the desk studies and field assessment, and taking ▪▪ Areas at risk of flooding; into account the guidance set out in Natural England’s Topic Paper 6, ▪▪ Outstanding assets, which for the purposes of this report are: Farnham the Landscape sensitivity and value of each of the Character Areas were Castle, Farnham Park, Waverley and the North Downs Way; and assessed. Landscape sensitivity and landscape value are defined within ▪▪ Any known cultural associations. the glossary of Natural England’s ‘An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment’(October 2014). 2.2.2 Data was overlaid to create a baseline structural analysis for the study area, Landscape Sensitivity: ‘The extent to which a landscape can accept change providing a context for field work and the detailed analysis and assessment of a particular type and scale without unacceptable adverse effects on its to follow, helping to identify: character.’ 2 Landscape value: ‘The relative value or importance attached to a landscape 3 Moderate (often as a basis for designation or recognition), which expresses national or 4: Substantial local consensus, because of it’s quality, special qualities including perceptual 5: Major aspects such as scenic beauty, tranquility or wildness, cultural associations or other conservation issues.’ 2.5.6 As a final stage, the overall sensitivity and value ratings were reviewed to assess whether a specific or overriding aspect of sensitivity or value has 2.5.2 Landscape sensitivity was then assessed, for each Character Area taking been under or over weighted in the consolidation of the profile into a single into account the following elements in tabulated form: overall rating. If necessary, ratings could then be adjusted up or down to reflect individual situations, ensuring that professional judgement is the final Inherent Contribution arbiter in the assessment process rather than relying solely on an arithmetic landscape Inconsistency Contribution to the setting Overall quality with existing to separation Visual Potential for system. Sensitivity and value ratings for each Character Area are provided of surrounding sensitivity (intactness settlement between sensitivity mitigation landscape/ judgement and form/pattern settlements within Appendix 2 settlement condition) 2.5.7 In order to be able to correlate this character assessment with the Waverley 2.5.3 Landscape value was then assessed, for each Character Area taking into Character Assessment carried out by AMEC, the five point scale will be account the following elements in tabulated form: consolidated into a three point scale as follows: ▪▪ High - Substantial and Major

Perceptual ▪▪ Medium - Moderate Ecological Recreation aspects (eg. and other Any historic/ Contribution and public ▪▪ Low - Slight and Negligible scenic Overall Landscape designations Local cultural/ to setting of access/ quality, value designations (eg heritage, distinctiveness literary ‘outstanding locally tranquility, judgement flood zone associations assests’ valued and 2.5.8 Each character area is described within the document, containing information etc) spaces remoteness) on: ▪▪ Designations and policy; ▪▪ Key characteristics; 2.5.4 For each area, the elements within the landscape sensitivity and landscape ▪▪ Landscape sensitivity (including the corresponding High / Medium / Low value tables were graded on their degree of sensitivity or value, ranging from judgement); and 1 (negligible) to 5 (major). The sensitivity and value assessment criteria used ▪▪ Landscape value (including the corresponding High / Medium / Low to make these judgements are provided in Appendix 1. judgement); Maps and photographs illustrating the character area are also provided. 2.5.5 The scores for each element within the landscape sensitivity and landscape value tables are summed to give overall sensitivity and value scores for each 2.5.9 The character of the landscape surrounding Farnham will then be summarised Character Area. These are rated on a five point scale as follows: and recommendations for the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan will be made. 1: Negligible 2: Slight 3 3. DESIGNATIONS AND POLICY CONTEXT Ecological designations 3.1 The landscape within Farnham Town Council boundary contains designated 3.6 The study area is rich in ecological interest, which is reflected in the breadth areas and features, which are protected by legislation and / or National and and frequency of designations surrounding the town. Key designations Local planning policy. The map opposite (Figure 2) identifies designations include: and other restrictions affecting the potential for development (e.g. floodplain) ▪▪ Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA), an internationally within the land surrounding Farnham. important designation, which covers the woodland to the north of the study area. Landscape designations ▪▪ Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) 3.2 Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) lies to the south-east ▪▪ Ancient Woodland of Farnham and is a nationally protected landscape. Much of the remaining ▪▪ Sites of Nature Conservation Interest, a local designation protected by land to the south and west of the town lies within an Area of Great Landscape local planning policy. Value (AGLV), which is protected by local planning policy. Heritage 3.3 The adopted Neighbourhood Plan has policies, which recognise some of the 3.7 Farnham contains a large number of heritage assets including Farnham special qualities of Farnham. This includes: Castle Scheduled Monument, five Conservation Areas and numerous listed ▪▪ South Farnham Arcadian Areas - areas of the town where landscape is ‘the buildings. Farnham Park is on the register of Parks and Gardens. Within the dominant visual element’ (Policy FNP8); remainder of the study area there are other Scheduled Monuments (notably ▪▪ Old Park - The location of the original Deer Park for , which at Caeser’s Camp to the north and . has reverted to agricultural use, but retains some landscape characteristics, which link to it’s historic use (Policy FNP10); and ▪▪ Areas of High Landscape Value and Sensitivity (Policy FNP10).

Spatial planning Figure 2: Copy of Map D from the 3.4 Land to the south-east of the study area is protected by Green Belt, which Farnham Neighbourhood Plan, is covered by national planning policy and local policy. Waverley Borough showing potential extensions to the Council have a Strategic Gap policy, which covers land to the north east of AONB within the Neighbourhood the study area, to protect the separation between Farnham and . Plan Area. Waverley Borough have another policy in place to protect Areas of Strategic Visual Importance (ASVI), which are designated for their role in ‘preventing the coalescence of settlements or because they are areas of open land that stretch into the urban area’ (Waverley Local Plan Part 1, para 13.44).

3.5 Areas of flood risk are identified as they are restrictive to development.

4 Figure 3: Designations

5 4 FARNHAM LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE ANALYSIS 4.1 Introduction 4.1.1 The aim of landscape structure analysis is to identify the main elements which contribute to the character, structure and setting of settlement and the AONB. This section includes an evaluation of the existing Landscape Character Context and the local landscape context of the Parish, which looks at the study area in detail and sets out our initial analysis of the area.

4.2 Landscape Character Context 4.2.1 There are national, regional and district scale landscape character assessments that cover the landscape within and around Farnham Town Council boundary. The national scale assessment has not been analysed for this assessment, as more detailed data is available.

4.2.2 The two relevant character assessment for this study are: 1) Surrey Landscape Character Assessment, which covers the whole county; and 2) Waverley Borough Council - Landscape Study – Part 1: Farnham & .

Figure 4: Surrey Landscape Character Areas

6 4.2.3 The Surrey Landscape Character Assessment breaks up the study area into 7 Character Types and 10 Surrey Character Areas. These are:

Landscape Type Landscape Character Area Key characteristics Chalk Ridge (CR) CR1 - Hog’s Back Chalk Ridge A narrow east-west chalk ridge with a south facing scarp and north facing dip slope. Predominantly pastoral, with large-scale geometric fields on the north slope and smaller fields on the steeper southern slopes. Fields are bound by low hedgerows, some of which are gappy. Open Greensand Hills (GO) GO1 - Open An undulating mixed use landscape, which is predominantly pastoral but includes arable farmland, Greensand Hills woodland, heathland, golf courses, parkland, nurseries and quarry workings. Fields are generally regular, medium to large scale and bound by hedgerows or fences. Settlement includes historic villages, traditional farmsteads and some more modern linear development along roads near . GO3 - West Farnham Open Undulating greensand hills located to either side of the , to the west of Farnham. Land use is Greensand Hills mixed and includes irregular fields (both arable and pasture), occasional woodland blocks, tree belts and quarries. Watercourses are present in local valley features. Aside from the relationship with the edge of Farnham, the Character Area consists of scattered farmsteads and large houses. GO4 - to Millbridge A rural and undulating landscape of mixed farmland and small woodland blocks. Farmland consists Open Greensand Hills of medium scale rectilinear arable fields and smaller, irregular fields in pasture. Settlement consists of villages and occasional farmsteads. Wooded Greensand Hills (GW) GW4 - to An undulating landscape located between Farnham and the Upper Wey River, dominated by large blocks Wooded Greensand Hills of woodland, including coniferous plantations, mixed woodland and common land. Small scale fields in pasture and paddocks are also present. Settlement is scattered and includes small hamlets and isolated farmsteads. A peaceful and remote area of high enclosure. Rolling Clay Farmland (LF) LF6 - North Farnham Rolling Clay Undulating clay farmland located to the north of Farnham. Farmland consists of medium scale arable Farmland fields, smaller pastoral fields, blocks of woodland and tree belts. Tree cover frames views and screens much of the adjacent settlement. There is little settlement within the Character Area. Farnham Park covers a large portion of the character area. River Floodplain (RF) RF6 - Blackwater River Floodplain The flat, low lying floodplain of the Blackwater Valley. Contains a number of lakes formed of gravel pits. Views are contained by tree cover and surrounding settlement. The Character Area itself is unsettled. RF8 - Upper Wey River Floodplain The River Wey and associated flat, pastoral landscape enclosed by hedgerows and willow lined ditches. Settlement is largely absent and the Character Area has a peaceful, rural ambiance. River Valley Floor (RV) RV8 - Badshot River Valley Floor A level area between the Blackwater floodplain to the north and the chalk dip slope to the south. Land uses include a large lake formed of a former quarry workings, sports facilities, paddocks and horticulture. Woodland is absent however tree lines and hedgerows at boundaries are common. The area has a relationship with adjacent settlement. The A31 lies to the south of the character area and the Alton railway passes through it. Sandy Woodland (SW) SW8 - Bricksbury Hill to Rowhill Extensive areas of woodland define the Character Area, which is mainly unsettled and has very limited Copse Sandy Woodland road access. The character area is covered by various ecological designations, including the Thames Basin Heath SPA. The area is relatively tranquil and the woodland provides a degree of remoteness.

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8 4.2.4 Waverley Borough Council Landscape Study, produced by AMEC, is a district-wide landscape sensitivity and capacity study produced to inform the Local Plan. The study brief was to assess ‘the ability of the landscape to accommodate future residential development in areas of the Borough’. The study is therefore focussed on landscape capacity rather than landscape character. This is reflected in the choice of terminology relating to assessment ‘segments’, rather than Landscape Character Areas.

4.2.5 The methodology for the breakdown of the landscape into ‘segments’ was as follows: ▪▪ Create a 0.5km offset from the edge of settlement. This was done as the brief was to focus new development adjacent to existing settlement. ▪▪ Identify existing landscape elements - defined as roads, linear development and vegetation, to subdivide the landscape into segments. ▪▪ Sub division was also informed by ‘consideration of the general character of each area, for example the sense of ‘openness’ or ‘enclosure’, experienced within the landscape’.

4.2.6 Landscape character is the focus of this report and the differences in methodology, particularly the inclusion of the whole Neighbourhood Plan Area, may result in some differentiation between the segments identified as part of the AMEC study and the Landscape Character Areas of this report.

4.2.7 The AMEC landscape study split the land at Farnham into 12 different segments. Segments 1, 10 and 11 were subdivided within the report. Each segment has a location description, a summary evaluation table, which provides judgements on landscape sensitivity and value, followed by an analysis of capacity. The AMEC judgements for Landscape sensitivity and value, for each segment are summarised in Appendix 3.

Figure 5: AMEC Landscape Study Segments

9 4.3 Farnham and the local landscape context within the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan) have been proposed as candidate 4.3.1 Farnham Town Council boundary (the study area) is located in Waverley AONB. This includes the river valley at Moor Park and two small areas to the Borough in Surrey. Farnham is the main settlement within the study area and south-west of the plan area, south-east of Rowledge. covers a large portion of the study area. The historic core of Farnham centres on the River Wey. Approximately one third of the town’s area is located to 4.3.5 The study area contains a number of heritage assets including scheduled the north of the river and the remainder is located to the south of the river. monuments, Conservation Areas, Listed buildings and two parks which are The northern edge of the town is densely settled and is separated from Hale on the Register of Parks and Gardens, including: and Heath End (to the north), by a green wedge, which includes the historic ▪▪ Farnham Castle - a Sheduled Monument within a Conservation Area on the landscape of Farnham Park and Old Park. northern edge of Farnham; ▪▪ Farnham Park - a large public park on the Register of Parks and Gardens, 4.3.2 The southern edge of Farnham is very low density and merges with the which lies to the north-east of Farnham Castle, between Farnham and Hale; rural, wooded landscape to the south. Many of the low density dwellings ▪▪ Waverley Abbey - a Scheduled Monument within a Conservation Area, are associated with large gardens and woodland. These dominate within located to the south-east of the study area; and the two ‘Arcadian Areas’ that the town council has recognised within the ▪▪ Caeser’s Camp - a Scheduled Monument to the north of the study area, Neighbourhood Plan. A third Arcadian Area, Moor Park, is located to the east north of Hale. of Farnham and is separated from the main settlement by the River Wey and ▪▪ The garden at Moor Park is also on the register of Parks and Gardens. it’s associated valley. 4.3.6 The landscape to the north and south of Farnham is undulating and has a 4.3.3 Hale and Heath End are located approximately 600m to the north of Farnham complex topography, incised by steep valleys with small streams. To the east at its nearest point. The area of is located approximately of the town, around Badshot Lea, the land is much flatter. To the far east of 250m to the north-east of Farnham and approximately 150m to the east of the study area, the land starts to rise again, forming the westernmost part Weybourne. Aldershot is located to the north-east of Hale and Heath End, of the Hogs Back chalk escarpment. The land to the north of the study area Weybourne, and Badshot Lea, with little intervening landscape. (north-west of Upper Hale) is associated with a plateau of high land, which falls away to the south and east. The landform and drainage of the study area 4.3.4 The Surrey Hills AONB lies to the south-east of the study area. This is a are an integral part of the local landscape character and provide a unique national designation with policies set out in the National Planning Policy sense of place. Framework that protects the landscape within the AONB for its landscape and scenic beauty. Any development within the AONB would need to 4.3.7 Watercourses and landscape features contribute substantially to the local demonstrate that it is in the public interest and would conserve and enhance landscape character. The River Wey and its associated valley winds around the character or natural beauty of the landscape or its setting. Farnham is the eastern edge of Farnham and through the centre of the town. The small also surrounded by three Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLV), which are valley associated with the Blackwater River, and man made water features protected through local planning policy. These are located to the north-west, (associated with old quarry works), form the separation between Aldershot south-west and east of the town. There is little land surrounding Farnham that and Badshot Lea, to the north-east of the study area. Further minerals sites is not designated as AONB or AGLV. Three areas of AGLV (Shown on Map D are located to the east and west of Farnham, adjacent to the river valleys. The 10 Figure 6: Landscape structure analysis settlement at Farnham is located on the valley side slopes of the River Wey and the Bourne Stream, which flows from west to east through the southern part of the town. Two local ridges run through the town to the north and south of the Bourne Stream.

4.3.8 The land use within the study area is predominantly pastoral, with some arable agriculture to the west of the study area. Fields are generally small scale, with some larger scale fields associated with the arable fields to the west of the study area. Large blocks of woodland are located to the north and south of the study area, with smaller woodland blocks forming a frequent landscape feature within the remainder of the area. The woodland, hedgerows and hedgerow trees within the study area contribute to an enclosed or semi enclosed landscape, which is often intimate with framed views.

4.3.9 Numerous public rights of way cross the study area, allowing public access and enjoyment of the countryside. The North Downs Way National Trail crosses the eastern part of the site and St Swithun’s Way is a popular long distance route, which passes through the north-western part of the study area. Farnham Park is accessible to the public. The woodland to the north of the study area is MOD land which allows public access and Bourne Wood, a Forestry Commission woodland to the south-east of Farnham, is publicly accessible. Public rights of way located on the high ground to the north-west of the study area afford some long views over the surrounding countryside, however many routes are enclosed by hedgerows or woodland, which contains views to the immediate surroundings.

4.3.10 Sports facilities within the study area are either located within settlement areas, or are located within the flat land located between Farnham, Hale and Badshot Lea. This area also contains a number of allotment sites. Some additional sports facilities are located within Farnham Park, along with equipped play areas and informal open space.

11 Figure 7 : HDA Landscape Character Areas

12 5. PARISH LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS 5.2.2 For each character area there will be a description of landscape character 5.1 Landscape characterization and a breakdown of landscape and visual sensitivity and the landscape value 5.1.1 Drawing on the initial desk study, landscape structure analysis and the field of the area. assessment, the study divides the landscape into Parish scale Landscape Character Areas. Farnham study area has been divided into 19 Local Landscape Character Areas (see figure 6 opposite).

5.1.2 The following is a list of the Parish landscape character areas identified: 1 Upper Hale Sandy Woodland 2 Old Park - west 3 Old Park - east 4 Castle Paddocks 5 Farnham Park 6 Cemetery fields 7 West Farnham Open Greensand Hills 8 Alton Road River Floodplain 9 Holt Hillside 10 Rowledge Wooded Greensand Hills 1 1 Wooded Slopes 12 Bourne Wood 13 Compton Wooded Slopes 14 Moor Park Valley 15 Runfold Open Greensand Hills 16 Badshot Leas Paddocks 17 East Farnham Mosaic 18 Badshot Lea Valley Floor 19 Hogs Back Ridge

5.2 Analysis of Parish scale Landscape Character Areas 5.2.1 The characteristics of each Landscape Character Area is analysed against criteria identified in Topic Paper 6 of the Countryside Agency’s Landscape Character Assessment Guidance, along with identification of any designations, and consideration of the historic landscape characterisation of the area. This information forms the basis for the landscape sensitivity and landscape value assessments. 13 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

Part of the Thames The Character Area is dominated by mixed This is an intact and high quality landscape, The Character Area is not subject to any 1 Heaths SPA woodland, with areas of heathland. The eastern which contains key features associated with landscape designations, however it is covered by (Policy NE3) and part of the character area comprises Ancient the character type. It has a high contribution to both international, national and local ecological also covered by Woodland. the rurality of the surrounding landscape. designations, as well as containing a notable a SSSI, SNCI Upper Hale heritage asset. Caesar’s Camp is a Scheduled and Local Nature The woodland provides a very rural and natural There is a strong edge to adjacent settlement, Monument and has strong historic associations reserve. Caesars Sandy setting to the north of the town and forms a defined by local roads. The edge of the for the local area. Camp Scheduled Woodland Monument is located strong separating feature between Upper Hale character area is well treed, which reinforces to the north of the and Aldershot. The area is unsettled and has the edge of the character area. Development The woodland and heathland within the character character area. no internal road access. within the Character Area would break up this is unique within the study area. Remaining definition. The eastern part of the character woodland has a different underlying geology and The area forms part The Character Area is accessible and is well area forms the separation between Upper Hale consequently supports different species. of the Farnham / used by local residents. The woodland is and Aldershot. Aldershot Strategic natural and peaceful, although the traffic from The woodland to the west is owned by the MOD Gap (Policy RE3/ C5) nearby roads adversely affects the tranquility of The woodland at the boundary of the character and is accessible to the public for the majority and is designated the area. area are a strong containing feature and limit of the time. The eastern woodland is a nature as an Area of High intervisibility within the Character Area. There reserve and is also open to the public. The area Landscape Value The wooded character is consistent across the are open views of the area from the permissive is natural rather than obviously managed and and Sensitivity area and is a unifying feature. The area sits on routes within it. It would be difficult to mitigate the intimacy created by the woodland makes the (Policy FNP 10). a plateau of high ground and, for the most part, for the feature loss that development within the character area secluded and peaceful. A small part of the is relatively flat. character area would cause. Character Area is in the Flood Zone. Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

1b

1a

14 Plans not to scale. Photograph 1a Photograph 1b Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

Southern part of Located on an undulating clay landscape This is an intact and well managed landscape, The southern part of the Character Area lies the Character area associated with the historic Old Park. The with features in good condition. The area is within the AGLV and contains 3 listed buildings. 2 is within the AGLV links to the historic deer park are evidenced by wholly rural, with no relationship to settlement Part of the area is designated SNCI and the area (Policy RE3). mature tree lines, Ancient Woodland and place and contributes to the separation between contains Ancient Woodland. names. Upper Hale and Ewshot. Contains 3 listed The undulating topography and open fields Old Park - buildings. Part of The Character Area is a medium-to-large Views are generally framed and contained by framed and contained by woodland are attractive West the area is a Site of Nature Conservation scale agricultural landscape, with tree belts woodland blocks and the hedgerows lining and locally distinctive. The Character Area is Importance (SNCI - and woodland containing and framing views. rural lanes and footpaths. There area some part of Old Park, which forms part of an Area of Policy NE1). Fields are irregularly shaped and often sinuous. open views of the character area from the High Landscape Sensitivity and Historic Value in Hedgerows and tree belts are common footpaths that pass through it and from local the adopted Neighbourhood Plan and has local The character area boundary features. These are intact and in residences. Where views are possible they are historic associations with Farnham Castle. The contains multiple good condition. often expansive and framed by woodland. Character Area has a limited contribution to the blocks of Ancient setting of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding Assets’. Woodland. The area is wholly rural and contains no The Character Area is divorced from settlement, with the exception of isolated settlement, new development would be The Character Area is reasonably well served The northern farmsteads. Access to the Character Area is incongruous within the landscape despite the by public rights of way and St Swithun’s Way is part of the area limited to rural lanes and public rights of way. presence of features that are likely to assist in a popular walking route. It is a semi enclosed, is designated as St Swithun’s Way passes through the character screening new development. and tranquil landscape with some attractive long an Area of High area. distance views framed by woodland. Landscape Sensitivity and Historic Value in the adopted Neighbourhood Plan. Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = Medium

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

2

Plans not to scale. Photograph 2. 15 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

Southern and Forming the eastern part of Old Park and the A high quality landscape with mature and Approximately half the Character Area is eastern part of the setting to Farnham Park, Old Park - East is well managed landscape features, which are covered by AGLV and contains some Ancient 3 Character area is a picturesque pastoral landscape, framed by in good condition. The Character Area has a Woodland. The area provides the wider rural within the AGLV mature trees. The Character Area is broken limited relationship with existing settlement. setting to Farnham Castle and Farnham Park. (Policy RE3). up by blocks of woodland, some of which is The housing to the north is low density and The Character Area forms the eastern part of Old Old Park - designated Ancient Woodland. has a soft edge to settlement, which has little Park. The northern part of the area is designated Forms part of the influence on the rurality of the Character Area. as an Area of High Landscape Sensitivity and East rural setting to Historic Value. Farnham Park Fields are generally small scale, geometric and The Character Area forms part of the (Policy HA1). bound by hedgerows. Lines of mature parkland separation between Farnham and Hale. It trees and hedgerow trees provide visual links is visible from Folly Hill and from many of The undulating topography and landscape feature The character area to the areas historic land use. Streams and the rights of way passing through it. Views links to the original deer park, combine to create contains blocks of ditches are a common landscape feature. are generally contained by hedgerows and a distinctive landscape, which can be appreciated Ancient Woodland. trees, however field gates and changes in on the approach to Farnham from Upper Hale. The Character Area sits within an undulating topography afford some long views across The northern landscape, which allows intermittent long views, the area. The Character Area has a high The Character Area contains a number of well part of the area particularly from the high ground to the north. contribution to the rurality of the surrounding used public rights of way, including St Swithun’s is designated landscape. Way. These allow local residents to enjoy the as an Area of The settlement at Upper Old Park encroaches peace and tranquility of the rural landscape. High Landscape into the Character Area from the north-east. New development would be likely to harm local Much of the landscape is intimate and enclosed, Sensitivity and character despite the presence of features that The southern boundary of the Character Area is however the undulating topography affords some Historic Value are likely to assist in screening. picturesque views over the landscape. in the adopted formed of a line of mature trees, which formed Neighbourhood Plan. the southern boundary to Old Park. Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

3a 3b

16 Plans not to scale. Photograph 3a Photograph 3b Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The northern part of The Character Area comprises small, The landscape is of moderate quality, with The northern half of the Character Area is the Character Area is rectilinear, fields in pasture, located on many intact features, but some feature loss covered by AGLV, with the southern half 4 within AGLV (Policy undulating landform. There is a general south- associated with agricultural intensification. designated as ASVI. RE3). The southern facing slope towards the town. The Character Area forms a small part of the Part lies within an separation between Farnham and Upper Hale. The south-eastern corner abuts Farnham Castle Castle Area of Strategic Farnham is located to the south of the Scheduled Monument and a conservation area. Visual Importance Character Area, however there is a soft edge Numerous rights of way cross the Character A number of the properties on Old Park Lane Paddocks (ASVI - Policy RE3) to the settlement, which filters views of the Area, affording open views over the landscape are Listed Buildings. The eastern part of the town and maintains the rural character of the within. There are partial and glimpsed views of Character Area contributes to the setting of Forms part of the landscape. the area from Folly Hill, to the north-east and Farnham Castle and Farnham Park. rural setting to from the car parks within Farnham Park. Farnham Castle Farnham Castle is located to the south-east The rights of way crossing the Character Area and Farnham Park of the Character Area and Farnham Park is The Character Area abuts existing settlement provide opportunities for informal recreation and (Policy HA1). located to the east, beyond the A287, which to the south and west, but is open to the good access to the countryside. The landscape is forms the eastern boundary. The northern countryside to the north and contributes to small scale and peaceful, with few detractors. The Character boundary is defined by a tree line associated the rurality of the landscape. The Character Area lies adjacent with the historic southern boundary of Old Park. Area contains some existing features, which to a Conservation could be built upon to mitigate development, Area and there are The Character Area abuts settlement to the particularly to the west of the area. a number of listed south, however the only settlement within the buildings on Old Park Character Area are the low density houses on Road. Old Park Lane. Landscape Sensitivity = Medium Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

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4b

Plans not to scale. Photograph 4a. Photograph 4b. 17 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

Farnham Park is on Farnham Park is a unique and valuable Farnham Park is a high quality landscape The Character Area is designated AGLV and the register of Parks landscape resource located to the north of that is well managed and contains intact and SNCI. It is also on the Register of Parks and and Gardens (Policy Farnham and south of Hale. The park contains historic landscape features. Gardens. Part of the Park is a SANG (Suitable 5 HA1), is within AGLV formal parkland to the south, consisting of Area of Alternative Greenspace). (Policy RE3) and sports pitches, a golf course, surfaced routes, The Park forms the separation between is designated as a equipped play and formal tree planting in mown Farnham and Hale, with settlement located The design intent of the park is clear and creates Farnham SNCI (Policy NE1). grass, with frequent avenues. to the north and south of the park, however a unique landscape character. The Park has well Park The Castle complex comprises a number there are strong treed edges to the park, which documented historic links and makes a significant of Grade 1 and 2 The northern part of the park consists of provides definition between the settlement and contribution to the setting of Farnham Castle. listed buildings and informal parkland and is reminiscent of a adjacent parkland. the Rangers House country park. This part of the Character Area The Park is publicly accessible and offers a is also listed. contains areas of woodland and scrub, with While the park is clearly designed, the northern wide range of formal and informal recreational rough grassland and meadow in place of part is rural in character. The park provides opportunities. The park is attractive and is a The park forms amenity grassland. Part of the park has been a green setting to both Farnham and Upper popular destination for visitors. Some areas of the a key part of the subdivided into pasture for grazing. This part Hale. The public access throughout the park park are open, neat and active, whilst others are setting to Farnham of the park contains a network of formal and affords open views of the park from within semi enclosed or enclosed, rural and peaceful. Castle Scheduled informal paths. the Character Area. There are also partial Monument. and glimpsed views into the park from Folly The park has a semi-enclosed character, with Hill and the housing to the north and south. Designated as tree planting and woodland framing views and Development within the park would harm the an Area of High Landscape Value screening settlement to the north and south. character of the landscape. and Sensitivity (Policy FNP 10). Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

5a

5b

18 Plans not to scale. Photograph 5a. Photograph 5b. Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The whole area is Located on a south-east facing slope, with long The Character Area is generally in good The Character Area lies within the AGLV and an 6 covered by AGLV views available from the high ground to the condition, although some areas appear Area of High Landscape Value and Sensitivity. (Policy RE3). north-west. unmanaged. New and characteristic hedgerow It is a peaceful and attractive rural landscape planting has been undertaken. and is small scale and enclosed. Parts of the Cemetery The Character Area The Character Area consists of small fields area contribute towards the setting to Listed contains two Listed in pasture bound by hedgerows of varying The Character Area forms a critical part of Buildings, in particular the Church of St John the Fields the separation between Farnham and Hale. Buildings, including ages. Established hedgerows contain mature Evangelist and the cottages which constituted the There is a strong treed edge to the southern the Church of St hedgerow trees. A thick belt of mature trees boundary, which provides definition between original hamlet of Hale. There are historic links John the Evangelist, abuts the western boundary of the area and the settlement and adjacent countryside. in ownership between the Character Area and and has a number other mature tree belts are located to the south Farnham Park and the area forms the eastern of additional Listed and south-east of the area. The north-eastern part of the site has a rural setting to the park, linking it to its historic Buildings adjacent strong visual connection with the wider rural rural surroundings. to the north-eastern The cemetery for the Church of St John the landscape and the Character Area forms boundary (Policy Evangelist forms part of the Character Area. a rural setting to adjacent settlement. The The Character Area forms part of the distinctive HA1). The Character Area is bound by settlement Character Area contains some existing rolling clay farmland, which forms a green wedge to the north and south and by the A325 to the features, which could be built upon to mitigate between Farnham and Hale. The cemetery has Designated as east. Settlement within the Character Area development, however new development public access and a public right of way runs along an Area of High is limited to the occasional large, detached would be likely to harm local character. There the southern boundary of the area, connecting Landscape Value dwelling. The settlement does not affect the are open views from the cemetery. There are to Farnham Park. The churchyard is well used glimpsed views from Farnham Park. and Sensitivity perception of rurality within the Character Area. by the public and is actively managed for wildlife (Policy FNP 10). conservation.

Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

6a

6b

Plans not to scale. Photograph 5b. Photograph 6a. Photograph 6b. 19 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The whole area is The Character Area consists of undulating The condition of the landscape is generally The Character Area is designated AGLV and 7 covered by AGLV greensand hills located to the north of the River good, although there is some feature loss. The contains Listed Buildings and blocks of Ancient (Policy RE3). Wey, to the west of Farnham. Tree belts and eastern boundary of the Character Area abuts Woodland. The area is typical of the Character woodland are generally located within valleys or the settlement edge of Farnham, however the Type. West The Character Area side slopes, with a lack of landscape structure two are separated by a stream and associated contains a number on the ridgetops, leading to some long views narrow valley. The landscape is part of the The Character Area has no known literary / Farnham across the Character Area. wider countryside and forms a rural outlook for of Listed Buildings cultural associations and has no relationship with Open settlement. The area has little contribution to (Policy HA1). Land use is predominantly pasture and includes the separation between settlements. any of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding assets’. The area Greensand irregular fields which vary in size and enclosure. contains public rights of way, which contribute to Hills There are a number Fields are often bound by hedgerows, although There are open views of the Character Area informal recreation. of blocks of Ancient some feature loss has occured. There are from the footpaths within it, particularly those Woodland within the occasional woodland blocks and tree belts. located on the open high ground. There is The long ranging views available from the high Character Area and Watercourses are present in local valley features some intervisibility with adjacent settlement, ground are panoramic and add to the scenic a small area on the within the Character Area, at and but views into the Character Area from local beauty of the Character Area. Within the valley eastern edge, falls to the west of Farnham, which separates the roads are limited, due to the hedgerows lining features, the landscape is more enclosed and within floodplain Character Area from the main settlement. the rural lanes. intimate. (Policy CC4). Settlement within the Character Area consists New development would be likely to harm of scattered farmsteads and large houses, with the rural character of this area despite the a small business park located to the south-east presence of features that are likely to assist in of the area. screening.

Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = Medium

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

7a 7b

20 Plans not to scale. Photograph 7a. Photograph 7b. Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

Almost the entire The Character Area is defined by the valley and The landscape is generally intact and in good A pleasant rural landscape within the AGLV. Character Area lies associated floodplain of the River Wey. The condition. It’s location within the floodplain The valley feature is distinct from much of the 8 within the floodplain topography is generally flat with a shallow slope means that development within the area landscape surrounding Farnham. The area lies (Policy CC4), and towards the river, which runs through the centre would be wholly inconsistent with the existing almost entirely within floodplain and the river Alton Road the whole area is of the area. The Character Area is bound to the settlement pattern, despite existing settlement corridor is an SNCI. Listed buildings are located covered by AGLV north by the busy A31 and to the south by the to the north-east and south-east. It has to the north of the Character Area. River (policy RE3). railway line. a strong contribution to the rurality of the Floodplain surrounding landscape. The Character Area has no known literary / The Character Area Land use is dominated by sinuous, medium- cultural associations and has no relationship with contains two Listed sized fields in pasture or water meadows. The Character Area has a limited contribution any of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding assets’. The area Buildings (Policy Fields are bound by hedgerows and riparian to the separation between settlements. contains public rights of way, which contribute to HA1). vegetation, which provides a semi-enclosed informal recreation. landscape. There are open views into the Character Area The river corridor is from rights of way, however views from roads The tranquility of the Character Area is affected designated as SNCI Settlement is limited to the northern edge of and properties are limited - largely due to their by the noise associated with the road to the (Policy NE1). the Character Area and consists of isolated absence within the Character Area. The lack north and railway to the south. Otherwise the dwellings. Only one road crosses the Character of settlement within the area would result in area is peaceful and pleasant, with little urban Area, although there is a vehicular access new development being incongruous within the influence. The meadows within the Character to the quarry located within the adjacent landscape, despite the presence of features Area, along with the willow trees, provide texture Character Area, to the south of the railway line. that are likely to assist in screening it. and movement.

Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = Medium

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

8a 8b

Plans not to scale. Photograph 8a. Photograph 8b. 21 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The northern half of The Character Area is formed of a greensand The landscape is generally intact, with some The northern part of the area is AGLV, lies 9 the Character Area ridge and associated valley sides located to the disturbance from the quarry workings. Some adjacent to a Conservation Area and some is is covered by AGLV west of Farnham. The settlement edge protrudes of the areas associated with the quarry are safeguarded for minerals. The southern part is (Policy RE3) and into the centre of the Character Area along the unmanaged. The recreation ground is in good designated ASVI. Ancient Woodland is present Holt Hillside the southern half ridge to either side of the A325. Settlement also condition. across the Character Area. is covered by ASVI enclosed the southern edge of the Character (Policy C5). Area, while the northern boundary is formed by The landscape lies adjacent to settlement, The landscape is generally attractive and is the railway line and the western edge extends There are a number to the parish boundary. however the edges to settlement are generally consistent with the Landscape Type. of blocks of Ancient soft and low density, with a well defined edge. Woodland within The land to the north of the ridge consists of an The Character Area has no known literary / the Character Area active quarry, woodland, small fields in pasture, The Character Area is generally rural in cultural associations and has no relationship with and a small area on and a recreation ground. The southern part character and contributes to the local any of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding assets’. the southern edge, of the area consists of small, rectilinear fields separation between and falls within floodplain in pasture, woodland blocks and tree belts. A Rowledge. The landscape contains public rights of way (Policy CC4). stream is located on the southern edge of the along with a recreation ground, which provides Character Area. The landscape is contained by woodland, tree opportunities for formal recreation (sports) and The northern part of belts and hedgerows, which provides a sense play. the Character Area Aside from the relationship with the edge of enclosure and limits views into and across is safeguarded for of Farnham, the Character Area consists of the area. This strong landscape structure A semi-enclosed / enclosed landscape with views mineral extraction occasional farmsteads and large houses. a provides some potential for mitigation, should framed by trees and woodland. The area is small through County nursery and small commercial site are located Council minerals along the A325. development within the area come forward. scale and often intimate in character. plans. Landscape Sensitivity = Medium Landscape Value = Medium

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

9b 9a

22 Plans not to scale. Photograph 9a. Photograph 9b. Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The southern half of An enclosed and well wooded landscape with The landscape is generally intact and in good The land south of The Long Road is covered the Character Area an undulating topography. Woodland forms the condition. Some woodland areas require by AGLV. Two small areas to the south-west of 10 is covered by AGLV dominant landscape feature, with some small rhododendron removal. The south-western part the Character Area are candidate AONB. These (Policy RE3). Two fields in pasture, large gardens associated with of the Character Area is in better condition, areas have a higher landscape value than the Rowledge small areas to the the edge of settlement and the playing fields of which is reflected in the two small areas put remainder of the Character Area Wooded south-west of the . forward as candidate AONB. Character Area are The Character Area contains Ancient Woodland Greensand candidate AONB. The Rowledge and Baunstone areas of The area abuts the settlement edge of and one Listed Building. Hills Farnham form the northern edge to the Farnham to the north, but this has a soft There are a number Character Area, with some low density edge and settlement within the character It is an attractive, peaceful and intimate wooded of blocks of Ancient settlement located along The Long Road, which area is low density. The landscape structure landscape, which is consistent with it’s character Woodland within the runs through the Character Area. provides potential for mitigation for potential Type. Character Area. development, providing that the development The landscape is enclosed and intimate with would not include high feature loss, which The Character Area has no known literary / The Character Area views contained by woodland. Footpaths could not be mitigated for. cultural associations and has no relationship with contains one listed are peaceful. Woodland areas contain any of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding assets’. building. Rhododendron, which detract from the The Character Area contributes to the local naturalistic character but add colour. separation between Rowledge and Baunstone. The Character Area contains public rights of This area is predominantly rural in character. way and playing fields associated with the The high enclosure provided by the woodland school, although it is unknown whether these are limits visibility across the Character Area. available for public use.

Landscape Sensitivity = Medium Landscape Value = Medium

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

10a 10b

Plans not to scale. Photograph 10a. Photograph 10b. 23 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The southern edge This is a small scale Character Area containing The Character Area is intact and is well There are no landscape designations covering of the Character Area isolated dwellings set within extensive land maintained. Features are generally well the area. Floodplain covers the southern part 11 falls within floodplain holdings. These include areas of woodland, managed and in good condition. Formal of the Character Area and one of Farnham’s (Policy CC4). small scale paddocks or meadows and landscaped gardens bleed out into the more ‘Arcadian Areas’ lies to the north. Frensham landscaped gardens. Woodland is the dominant rural paddocks and woodland. Wooded The northern edge land cover. The area displays some of the key characteristics lies adjacent to on of The Character Area has associations of the landscape Type. Slopes Farnham’s ‘Arcadian The Character Area has a relatively rural with settlement to the north, however Areas’. character and is well contained. There are few this settlement is very low density and is The Character Area has no known literary / views of or into the Character Area. Access is dominated by landscape features. The area is cultural associations and has no relationship with limited to one rural lane. The area is located on a transitionary landscape between Farnham any of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding assets’. There are a south-facing slope, with a small watercourse and the wider rural landscape. The area has a no public rights of way or recreational facilities located adjacent to the southern boundary. limited contribution to the separation between within the Character Area. settlement. The area is quiet, with a high degree of enclosure Views of the Character Area are extremely and the woodland obscures most urban limited. The landscape structure provides influences. potential for mitigation for potential development, providing that the development would not include high feature loss, which could not be mitigated for.

Landscape Sensitivity = Medium Landscape Value = Low

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

11a 11b

24 Plans not to scale. Photograph 11a. Photograph 11b. Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The Character Area This is a landscape dominated by woodland, The Woodland is well managed and intact The Character Area is covered by both AONB is covered by AONB the majority of which lies within Bourne Wood, and provides a sylvan landscape setting to and Green Belt. Bourne Wood also contains two 12 (Policy RE3) and which is owned by the Forestry Commission Farnham. The Character Area lies adjacent Scheduled Monuments, which are bowl barrows, Green Belt (Policy and is publicly accessible. to settlement, however the woodland forms a located 100m from each other. Bourne RE3). strong definition to the edge of settlement. The Wood The Character Area has an undulating woods have a high contribution to the rurality The woodland is very distinctive, particularly There are two landform, which is generally masked by tree of the landscape. Bourne Wood. The accessibility of Bourne Wood Scheduled cover. The area is extremely enclosed and the makes it an important recreational resource. It Monuments to the woodland provides a strong edge to settlement. The Character Area is well contained and is well used and car parking provides access for north-east of the views are limited, however the accessibility of visitors. Character Area. The woodland is a mixture of conifer plantation Bourne Wood provides some open views of and broadleaf woodland. this part of the Character Area. The woodland is attractive and tranquil and The northern the enclosure provides a sense of remoteness. boundary of the Development within this area is likely to The Character Area has no relationship with Character Area abuts have adverse effects on the landscape due Farnham’s ‘Outstanding Assets’, but is an asset in the floodplain and to the transition from a natural landscape to it’s own right. the northern and development and the potential for significant western boundaries feature loss. lie adjacent to two Arcadian Areas.

Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

Plans not to scale. Photograph 12. 25 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The majority of the An undulating landscape located between An intact landscape in good condition, with The southern half of the Character Area lies Character Area is Farnham and the Upper Wey River. A stream a large number of landscape features. The within the AONB and Green Belt. Some of the 13 covered by AONB crosses the Character Area, set within a narrow northern and western edges of the Character northern areas lie within AGLV and is designatied and Green Belt. The valley. Black Lake is located to the south of the Area are formed by the settlement of Farnham, an Area of High Landscape Value and Sensitivity. northern part of the Character Area. Compton however these edges are generally low density Ancient Woodland is present across the Character Area lies with soft, landscaped edges. Character Area and the stream has a narrow area within AGLV and is Land use includes small fields in pasture Wooded of associated floodplain. designated an Area interspersed with blocks of woodland and tree Slopes of High Landscape belts. Hedgerows line the lanes that run through The southern and eastern edges of the Value and Sensitivity and adjacent to the Character Area. The tree Character Area are open to the wider The eastern corner of the Character Area, (Policy FNP10). and vegetation cover provides a strong sense countryside. The whole area feels rural in contains Waverley Abbey House, which is of enclosure and intimacy. character. The Character Area forms the associated with Waverley Abbey Scheduled There are a number landscape setting to one of Farnham’s Monument and is within the same Conservation of blocks of Ancient While the Character Area is bound to the north Arcadian Areas. Area. Woodland within the and west by Farnham, settlement within the Character Area. area is restricted to farms and large houses set The high enclosure provided by the woodland It is an attractive, tranquil and intimate wooded within substantial formal gardens. limits visibility across the Character Area. Any landscape, which is consistent with it’s character The south-eastern new development would be likely to harm local Type. The Character Area contains public rights corner is within a character despite the presence of features that of way, including a stretch of the North Downs Conservation Area are likely to assist in screening. Way, within the northern part of the area. (Policy HA1). The southern boundary of the Character Area abuts the floodplain (Policy CC4). Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

13a

13b

26 Plans not to scale. Photograph 13a. Photograph 13b. Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The southern part of The Character Area is defined by the valley and This is a high quality landscape with intact The Character Area is covered by AONB, AGLV the Character Area associated floodplain of the River Wey. The features and a consistently good condition. and is one of the candidate AONB areas under 14 is covered by AONB topography is generally flat. The Character Area is generally unsettled consideration by Natural England. The northern (Policy RE3) and and has no associations with the built up area part is an Area of High Landscape Value and Green Belt (Policy Moor Park Land use is dominated by sinuous, medium- of Farnham. It has some contribution to the Sensitivity. The majority of the area is covered RE3). The northern sized fields in pasture or meadows. Fields are separation between Farnham and Moor Park by floodplain and the river corridor is designated part lies within AGLV Valley bound by hedgerows and riparian vegetation, Arcadian Area. It has a high contribution to the as an SNCI. The area also contains a number and is an Area of High Landscape which provides a semi-enclosed landscape. rurality of the surrounding landscape. of Heritage Assets including listed buildings, Value and Sensitivity. There are small blocks of woodland associated a Conservation Area, registered park and with the Character Area. The character area is open to view from the Scheduled Monument. The Character Area forms The Character footpaths associated with it and from the the setting to Waverley Abbey, one of Farnham’s Area contains Settlement is limited to isolated dwellings, publicly accessible land at Waverley Abbey. outstanding assets. a Conservation which are frequently Listed Buildings, with There are also views from the road and bridge Area (Policy associated formal gardens or parkland. Only crossings. There are some long and attractive The character of the river corridor stands out HA1), Scheduled two roads cross the Character Area. views along the river corridor. within the local landscape and forms a distinctive Monument, Historic part of the countryside surrounding Farnham. Park and Garden and The Character Area is wholly rural and has a New development would be likely to harm four listed buildings. picturesque and peaceful ambiance. the character of the river valley, despite the The area is accessible to the public and contains presence of features that are likely to assist in a stretch of the Greensand Hills long distance The river corridor screening. walking route, in additional to informal access at lies within floodplain (Policy CC4) and is the Abbey and within SANG land. designated as SNCI (Policy NE1). Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

14a

14b

Plans not to scale. Photograph 14a. Photograph 14b. 27 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The eastern part of A mosaic of arable and pastoral landscape The landscape is generally intact, with some The Character Area is covered by a number of the Character Area with blocks of woodland. There is currently a disturbance from the quarry workings. The designations including AONB, AGLV, the northern 15 is covered by AONB large amount of quarrying activity within the unaffected countryside is in good condition. an Area of High Landscape Value and Sensitivity, and Green Belt. Character Area, which is likely to result in a Green Belt and Strategic Gap. The western part is changing landscape in the short term. The area Runfold The landscape has little relationship with covered by AGLV contains a number of lakes. settlement. It has some association with Moor The landscape is in a state of change, but is and the northern Open Park Arcadian Area, however this is a low likely to improve once the quarry workings part is designated The Character Area is located on a gentle north- density form of settlement, with a dominance have been restored. The landscape forms the Greensand an Area of High facing slope on the edge of the greensand hills. immediate setting to the North Downs Way, one Hills Landscape Value It is bound to the north by the A31, which is a of landscape features, which limit the intrusion and Sensitivity source of noise. The activity of the quarry sites of the development into the surrounding rural of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding Assets’. Other rights (Policy FNP10). is also locally disruptive at present. Moor Park landscape. of way cross the area, providing a link from Arcadian Area lies to the south of the area. Farnham to the wider AONB. The land to the The Character Area has some contribution to north of Guildford Settlement within the area consists of ribbon the separation between Moor Park Arcadian The Character Area is generally peaceful and Road lies within the development along local roads and occasional Area and Farnham. scenic (reflected by the landscape designations), Farnham / Aldershot farmsteads. however the areas currently being quarried are Strategic Gap (Policy The landscape is framed by woodland, tree disturbed and have a higher level of activity. C4 / RE3). The area is crossed by the North Downs Way belts and hedgerows, which provides a sense National Route. of enclosure, however there are some long There are two Listed views from the higher ground to the south of Buildings in the north-west corner of the Character Area. the Character Area. Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = High

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

15b 15a

28 Plans not to scale. Photograph 15a. Photograph 15b. Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The whole Character The area is typified by small fields in pasture, The Character Area displays some feature The Character Area contains no landscape Area falls within the which have been subdivided with fencing to loss and the assortment of fencing types designations. The whole area is currently 16 Farnham / Aldershot form paddocks grazed by horses. Fields are subdividing the paddocks, detracts from the designated Strategic Gap. The area contains a Strategic Gap (Policy rectilinear and consistent in shape and size. overall landscape quality of the area. The number of Listed buildings, located at the centre Badshot C4 / RE3). The area contains linear landscape features northern edge of the Character Area abuts and south-east of the Character Area. including hedgerows and tree lines and there Badshot Lea and additional development Lea The Character Area are areas of scrub and woodland at the edges within this area would be consistent with the The Character Area is an ordinary landscape Paddocks contains a number of the Character Area. The northern part of the existing settlement pattern. with no known literary / cultural associations of Listed Buildings Character Area is a plant nursery. and has no relationship with any of Farnham’s (Policy HA1). The western part of the Character Area ‘Outstanding assets’. The topography of the Character Area is makes a significant contribution towards relatively flat with a local high point to the north- the separation between Badshot Lea and The area is well served by public rights of way, west of the area. Farnham. The area makes some contribution which provide informal recreation. The riding towards the rurality of Badshot Lea. The stables within the character area also provides The area is bound by the settlement of Badshot Character Area is visible from the footpaths recreational opportunities. Lea to the north, by the railway to the west and that run through it, however intervening by the busy A31 to the south. The noise from vegetations screens views from the A31, The Character Area consists of average the road affects the tranquility of the character railway. The existing landscape structure countryside, however the feature loss and noise area. There is some settlement within the could be built upon to mitigate a proposed from adjacent busy transport routes, adversely centre of the site, off Badshot Farm, and low development. effects the perceptual aspects of the area. density ribbon development along Runfold St George. Landscape Sensitivity = Medium Landscape Value = Low

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

16a 16b

Plans not to scale. Photograph 16a. Photograph 16b. 29 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

Approximately half This Character Area is notable for it’s The condition of the Character Area varies with The Character Area contains no landscape of Character Area abundance of sports facilities and playing fields land use. The sports facilities are generally designations. The northern part of the area is 17 falls within Strategic which cover approximately half of the area. The in very good condition, whereas some of designated Strategic Gap and the southern part is Gap (Policy C4 / remainder of the Character Area is a mosaic the fields in pasture and areas of scrub are an ASVI. The area contains one Listed Building. RE3). Much of the of small fields in pasture, blocks of woodland, unmanaged and a little unkempt. The sports facilities are protected through East remaining area lies areas of scrub, allotments and urban edge planning policy LRC1. Farnham within ASVI (Policy land uses including a substation and sewage The area is surrounded by settlement and Mosaic C5). treatment works. forms the critical separation between Farnham, The Character Area has no known literary / Aldershot, Weybourne and Badshot Lea. New cultural associations and has no relationship with The Character Area The landscape is generally small / medium development is likely to be consistent with the any of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding assets’. contains one Listed scale and is rectilinear in pattern. Trees, existing settlement pattern,but is also likely to Building (Policy hedgerows and scrub provide containment impact ont he separation between settlement. The Character Area contains numerous HA1). The north- within the area and prevent long views. The The Character Area has a limited contribution opportunities for recreation including formal eastern corner falls land is relatively flat. to the rurality of the surrounding landscape. sports, informal recreation on rights of way within floodplain and through use of the allotments. One of the (Policy CC4). There is little settlement within the Character The area is visible from footpaths which run woodland areas to the north has permissive Area, however it is surrounded by settlement through it and from the publicly accessible access. The Character Area and contains some large buildings associated sports pitches, however the landscape contains a number with the sports facilities. structure of trees and hedgerows limits visibility The perceptual aspects of the area vary with land of formal sports and provides a potential basis for mitigation use and proximity to settlement. facilities, which are planting. protected through policy LRC1. Landscape Sensitivity = Medium Landscape Value = Medium

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

17b 17a

30 Plans not to scale. Photograph 17a. Photograph 17b. Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The Character The Character Area consists of the flat, low Both restored landscapes are established The Character Area contains no landscape 18 Area falls within the lying floodplain of the Blackwater Valley. and in good condition. Both are in active designations. The whole area is currently Farnham / Aldershot management and the lakes are high quality designated Strategic Gap and the majority of the Strategic Gap (Policy The area contains two lakes formed through the landscape features. area is also within floodplain. Part of the area is a Badshot C4 / RE3). restoration of gravel pits. The Blackwater River nature reserve. is located to the north of the lakes and is also The Character Area abuts settlement, but Lea Valley within the Character Area. One lake is now a The majority of the is very distinct. New settlement within the The lakes are a distinctive and attractive Floor private fishing lake and the other is now part of Character Area lies a nature reserve, with routes accessible to the area would be inconsistent with the existing local feature. The eastern lake in particular is within floodplain. public. settlement pattern. The area also forms the naturalistic and is complemented by the adjacent critical separation between Aldershot and woodland and Blackwater River. One of the lakes is The area is bound to the north by the settlement Badshot Lea. now a local nature edge of Aldershot and to the south by Badshot The Character Area has no known literary / reserve. Lea and the A31. Views into and across the The watercourse and lakes make a high cultural associations and has no relationship with Character Area are contained by tree cover and contribution to the setting of adjacent any of Farnham’s ‘Outstanding assets’. surrounding settlement. The Character Area settlement and contribute to the rurality of itself is unsettled. the local landscape. Both lakes are used for The Character Area contains a number of informal recreation. The lakes are attractive opportunities for informal recreation. The character area is rural and attractive. landscape features, set within a strong landscape framework. There is a mixture of openness and enclosure.

Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = Medium

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

18

Plans not to scale. Photograph 18. 31 Character Designations and Key Characteristics Landscape sensitivity Landscape value Area policy

The Character The western end of a narrow chalk ridge that The landscape is attractive, but is showing The Character Area contains no landscape Area falls within the runs east, aligned with the A31, along Hogs some signs of hedgerow deterioration. It designations. The whole area is designated 19 Farnham / Aldershot Back. The ridge has a south-facing escarpment is divorced from large settlement and only Strategic Gap. The area contains a number Strategic Gap (Policy and a north-facing dip slope. The area is bound isolated dwellings are associated with the of Listed Buildings, located at the centre and to the north by the A31 and extends east to the Hogs Back C4 / RE3). area. south-east of the Character Area. The western Parish boundary. boundary lies adjacent to floodplain. Ridge The Character Area The area forms part of the separation between Land use is predominantly fields in pasture, contains a number Aldershot and the villages to the south The Character Area is an ordinary landscape, which are small scale and geometric. There are of Listed Buildings and east of the Character Area. The area has no known literary / cultural associations some larger-scale arable fields to the east of (Policy HA1). contributes to the rurality of the surrounding and has no relationship with any of Farnham’s the area. landscape. ‘Outstanding assets’. Recreational opportunities within the area are limited. The area contains linear landscape features The high ground of the northern slopes are including hedgerows and tree lines and a small open to view from the A31 and is likely to be The high ground within the Character Area affords copse of woodland. Some of the hedgerow visible in long views from the north. Views some long views across the countryside and the features are gappy or in decline. from local footpaths are limited. The landscape area is rural in character. There is little influence The noise from the busy A31 affects the structure affords some potential for mitigation from settlement, however the noise from adjacent tranquility of the area. Settlement is limited on the lower slopes of the Character Area. busy transport routes, adversely effects the to occasional dwellings / farmsteads and a Development on the high ground would harm tranquility of the area. caravan site at The Willows. The area also local character, would be visually sensitive and contains a pub and some small businesses. would be difficult to mitigate.

Landscape Sensitivity = High Landscape Value = Low

Parish character area Designations Photograph/s showing key characteristics

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32 Plans not to scale. This page has been left intentionally blank

33 6. SUMMARY Summary table of landscape sensitivity and landscape value 6.1 Sensitivity and value ratings for each Character Area are provided within Appendix 2. In order to be able to correlate this character assessment with No. Landscape Character Area Landscape Landscape the Waverley Character Assessment carried out by AMEC, the five point scale Sensitivity Value used by HDA has been consolidated into a three point scale of High, Medium 01 Upper Hale Sandy Woodland High High and Low ratings, which is used in the individual tables for each Character 02 Old Park - west High Medium Area. 03 Old Park - east High High 6.2 A summary table of landscape sensitivity and landscape value is provided 04 Castle paddocks Medium High opposite. 05 Farnham Park High High 6.3 The findings of this Character Assessment highlight the quality ofthe 06 Cemetery Fields High High landscape surrounding Farnham and the contribution that the landscape 07 West Farnham Open Greensand Hills High Medium makes to the Parish. This is reflected in the AONB, AGLV and Areas of High Landscape Value and Sensitivity designations, which cover a large portion of 08 Alton Road River Floodplain High Medium the countryside within the Parish. 09 Holt Hillside Medium Medium 10 Rowledge Wooded Greensand Hills Medium Medium 6.4 The Character Areas with the highest landscape sensitivity and value are: ▪▪ 1 Upper Hale Sandy Woodland 11 Frensham Wooded Slopes Medium Low ▪▪ 3 Old Park - east; 12 Bourne Wood High High ▪▪ 5 Farnham Park; ▪▪ 6 Cemetery Fields; 13 Compton wooded slopes High High ▪▪ 12 Bourne Wood; 14 Moor Park Valley High High ▪▪ 13 Compton Wooded Slopes; 15 Runfold Open Greensand Hills High High ▪▪ 14 Moor Park Valley; and ▪▪ 15 Runfold Open Greensand Hills. 16 Badshot Lea Paddocks Medium Low 17 East Farnham Mosaic Medium Medium 6.5 Other Character Areas that would be sensitive to inappropriate development 18 Badshot Lea Valley Floor High Medium due to their High landscape sensitivity or value include: ▪▪ 2 Old Park west; 19 Hogs Back Ridge High Low ▪▪ 4 Castle Paddocks; ▪▪ 7 West Farnham Greensand Hills; ▪▪ 8 Alton River Floodplain; ▪▪ 18 Badshot Lea Valley Floor; and ▪▪ 19 Hogs Back Ridge.

34 6.6 HDA recommends that Character Areas with a High Landscape Sensitivity Area 18, links to area 1, which form another green corridor of open space on or Value should be protected from inappropriate development. Character the southern edge of Aldershot. Areas with High value and sensitivity have the potential to be incorporated into the Areas of High Landscape Value and sensitivity shown in Map E of 6.12 Character Areas 12-15 form a distinctive and highly attractive landscape the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan. to the south-east of Farnham, which is reflected in the AONB and AGLV designations that cover them. Area 19 links into this rural landscape and 6.7 Character Area 1 represents an intact landscape with a high ecological abuts the AONB. sensitivity and a high contribution to settlement separation. Character Areas 2-6 represent a high quality landscape which forms an important green 6.13 Character Areas assessed as having a Medium landscape sensitivity and wedge between Farnham and Hale / Heath End. This landscape forms the value include 9 Holt Hillside, 10 Rowledge Wooded Greensand Hills and setting to both settlements and has a number of important historical links. 17 East Farnham Mosaic. There are no Character Areas that have been This green wedge is met to the east, by the lowland character areas 16-18, assessed as having a Low landscape sensitivity, however areas 11 Frensham which maintain the separation between Farnham, Aldershot and Hale; and Wooded Slopes and 16 Badshot Lea Paddocks have been assessed as Farnham, Badshot Lea and Weybourne. having a Medium sensitivity and Low value.

6.8 The Character Areas which have a particularly high contribution towards the 6.14 The assessments of landscape sensitivity and value are given for each separation to settlement within the parish include: Character Area, however it is noted that there may be minor variations ▪▪ 1 Upper Hale Sandy Woodland; within a Character Area. These variations have been addressed within the ▪▪ 5 Farnham Park; accompanying text for each Character Area. ▪▪ 6 Cemetery Fields; ▪▪ 16 Badshot Lea Paddocks; ▪▪ 17 East Farnham Mosaic; and ▪▪ 18 Badshot Lea Valley Floor.

6.9 Two further Character Areas (9 and 10), have some contribution to local separation as defined by Neighbourhood Plan Policy FNP 11.

6.10 The eastern and western sections of Old Park (Character Areas 2 and 3) have many consistent characteristics, however differences in scale, land use and field pattern have led to the differentiation of the two Character Areas. Both Character Areas are sensitive to development.

6.11 Character Area 7 is another high sensitivity rural landscape, with strong links to the countryside to the west. Areas 8 and 14 are associated with the floodplain of the River Wey, which runs through the centre of Farnham and creates and important green corridor across the whole parish. Character 35 Appendix 1

LANDSCAPE SENSITIVITY AND VALUE CRITERIA FOR FARNHAM LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT Character areas are assessed against a number of criteria in order to gauge their overall landscape sensitivity and value. Each element within the assessment is graded on its degree of sensitivity or value, based on a 5 point scale ranging from negligible to major. Each element which makes up the sensitivity and value assessments is set out below with descriptions of example scenarios of negligible and major grading.

Landscape sensitivity criteria:

Inherent Landscape quality (intactness and condition)

1 5 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity A degraded An intact landscape landscape with high with low boundary boundary loss loss and significant resulting in a larger landscape features scale field pattern, characteristic of the and/or limited intact landscape type. landscape features along boundaries or Areas with a high within the character agricultural land area. classification grade.

Areas with low agricultural land classification grade.

Inconsistency with existing settlement Contribution to separation between settlements form/pattern

1 5 1 5 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity The character area The character area is The character area is The character area is lies adjacent to detached and distant distant from any the entire, or existing settlement from any significant settlement or forms significant portion of, and development settlement or conflicts an insignificant part of the separation within the character with a major the wider landscape between two or more area would be in constraint such as in between separate settlements. keeping with how the floodplain. settlements. If the settlement has character area was developed in relation developed there

to landscape would be no loss of structure, and the individual settlement local topography. identity.

The adjacent settlement may lack a well-defined existing edge, and have limited vegetation.

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Contribution to the setting of surrounding Views landscape/settlement (visual sensitivity)

1 5 1 5 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity The character area is The character area is The character area is The character area is inward looking, it a prominent part of visible from a very open and forms the forms a very small the wider landscape limited number of dominant part of part of a wider continuum, it provides locations and is many views, including landscape. the immediate open difficult to perceive views from sensitive It is distant from any aspect to a from publicly viewpoint locations significant settlement. settlement. accessible viewpoints such as the AONB or or from a nearby an Outstanding settlement. Asset*.

Overall Potential for mitigation sensitivity judgement (inverse score i.e. 01-07 = Negligible high potential for mitigation 08-14 = Slight = low sensitivity, 15-21 = Moderate therefore low score) 22-28 = Substantial 29-35 = Major

1 5 1 35 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity The character area Character areas The scores for each element within the sensitivity has a good existing where development assessment are summed to give an overall landscape landscape structure would have effects sensitivity score for the character area. which could be which cannot be enhanced to eliminate mitigated against, This is followed by a final review to consider whether a or significantly reduce such as the loss of specific or overriding aspect of sensitivity has been under the effects of separation between or over weighted in the consolidation of the profile into a development, or settlements. single overall rating. features characteristic of the area could be If necessary, ratings can then be adjusted up or down to introduced to mitigate reflect individual situations, ensuring that professional for a proposed judgement is the final arbiter in the assessment process development, within a rather than relying solely on an arithmetic system. reasonable timescale.

*For the purposes of this assessment the Outstanding Assets of Farnham are: Farnham Castle, Farnham Park, Waverley Abbey and the North Downs Way

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Landscape value criteria:

Landscape Ecological and other designations designations (eg. heritage, flood zone etc)

1 5 1 5 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity The character area is The majority of the There are no other The character area is not within or near an character area is designations within or entirely within another area containing a within the AONB or near the character designation, such as landscape Candidate AONB area. flood zone, or is designation. area and exhibits the partially within a qualities for which the number of area is designated. designations such as SPA, SSSI, conservation area and/or flood zone.

Local Any historic/cultural/ distinctiveness literary associations

1 5 1 5 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity An unremarkable A character area A character area The character area character area, which exhibiting qualities where no historical or has an important may be consistent which are rare to the cultural associations association with a with the local local area, or provides pertaining to the significant historical landscape character an outstanding character area have event or is associated but has few example of the local been identified, and with a number of less distinguishing landscape character the character area well known historical features or landscape containing distinctive has limited time depth or cultural events or structure, such as features or landscape recorded by the features. The landform and/or tree structure, such as Surrey Historic character area has cover. landform and/or tree Landscape significant time depth cover, which make Characterisation and has been the area memorable. study. identified as an intact example of historical landscape by the Surrey Historic Landscape Characterisation study.

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Contribution to setting Recreation and public access/ of ‘outstanding assets’* locally valued spaces

1 5 1 5 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity There are no The character area is The character area is The character area outstanding assets* prominent in views to private land not used has significant well near the character or from an for recreational used unimpeded area, or the character outstanding asset, purposes and has no public access, such area is imperceivable such that it forms the locally recognisable as common land or a from the outstanding entire, or a significant visual amenity. network of public asset due to its size part of, the setting rights of way, and/or or containment. (either open or is used specifically for enclosed) to an recreation. outstanding asset.

Overall value judgement Perceptual aspects 01-07 = Negligible (eg. scenic quality, tranquillity, and 08-14 = Slight remoteness) 15-21 = Moderate 22-28 = Substantial 29-35 = Major

1 5 1 35 Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity Negligible sensitivity → Major sensitivity The character area is The character area The scores for each element within the value assessment disturbed by has limited signs of are summed to give an overall landscape value score for significant urban human influence the character area. influence such as either through its development and/or existence as a This is followed by a final review to consider whether a road/aircraft noise. relatively undisturbed specific or overriding aspect of value has been under or landscape, or as a over weighted in the consolidation of the profile into a result of surrounding single overall rating. enclosure, such as woodland, which If necessary, ratings can then be adjusted up or down to obscures urban reflect individual situations, ensuring that professional influence. judgement is the final arbiter in the assessment process rather than relying solely on an arithmetic system.

*For the purposes of this assessment the Outstanding Assets of Farnham are: Farnham Castle, Farnham Park, Waverley Abbey and the North Downs Way

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Appendix 2 Landscape Sensitivity and Value – summary tables Analysis of Parish scale Landscape Character Areas The characteristics of each Parish scale landscape character area is analysed against criteria identified in Topic Paper 6 of the Countryside Agency’s landscape Character Assessment Guidance, along with identification of any designations, gap policy, and consideration of the historic landscape characterisation of the area. This information is then fed into the landscape sensitivity and landscape value assessments.

Landscape Sensitivity LCA Inherent Inconsistency Contribution to Contribution to Views Potential for Sensitivity Final landscape with existing separation rurality of (visual mitigation Assessment qualities settlement between surrounding sensitivity) (inverse score) 1-6 Negligible Landscape (intactness form / pattern settlements landscape / 7-12 Slight Sensitivity and settlement 13-18 Moderate condition) 19-24 Substantial 25-30 Major

low high 6 12 18 24 30

Landscape Value LCA Landscape Ecological Local Any historic/ Contribution Recreation Perceptual Landscape Value Final Designation and other distinctiveness cultural/ to the setting and public aspects (eg. Assessment (quality Designation (rarity and literary of access / scenic 1-7 Negligible Landscape landscapes) (nature representativen associations ‘Outstanding locally beauty, 8-14 Slight Value conservation ess) assets’ valued views, 15-21 Moderate , heritage, spaces. tranquillity, 22-28 Substantial flooding, wildness) 29-35 Major amenity) low high 7 14 21 28 35

Sensitivity and value ratings range from Major, Substantial, Moderate, Slight and Negligible. Areas judged to have Major or Substantial sensitivity or value indicates that development would have significant detrimental effect on the character of the landscape. Development in these character areas should only be on a very small scale and proposals would need to demonstrate no adverse impacts on the setting to settlement or the wider landscape. Table 1 Landscape Sensitivity

Inherent Inconsistency Contribution to Contribution to Views (visual Potential for Sensitivity Final Landscape with existing separation rurality of sensitivity) mitigation Assessment Qualities village / between surrounding (inverse score) 1-6 Negligible Landscape (intactness settlement form settlements landscape / 7-12 Slight Sensitivity No Landscape Character Area 13-18 Moderate and / pattern settlement 19-24 Substantial condition) 25-30 Major

low high 6 12 18 24 30 1 Upper Hale Sandy Woodland X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 22 Substantial 2 Old Park - west X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 23 Substantial 3 Old Park - east X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 23 Substantial 4 Castle paddocks X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 17 Moderate 5 Farnham Park X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 24 Substantial 6 Cemetery Fields X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 19 Substantial 7 West Farnham Open X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 20 Substantial Greensand Hills 8 Alton Road River Floodplain X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 19 Substantial 9 Holt Hillside X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 15 Moderate 10 Rowledge Wooded X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 17 Moderate Greensand Hills 11 Frensham Wooded Slopes X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 15 Moderate 12 Bourne Wood X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 19 Substantial 13 Compton wooded slopes X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 19 Substantial 14 Moor Park Valley X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 25 Major 15 Runfold Open Greensand X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 19 Substantial Hills 16 Badshot Lea Paddocks X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 16 Moderate 17 East Farnham Mosaic X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 18 Moderate 18 Badshot Lea Valley Floor X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 22 Substantial 19 Hogs Back Ridge X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 19 Substantial

Table 2 Landscape Value

Landscape Ecological and Local Any historic/ Contribution to Recreation and Perceptual Landscape Final Designation other distinctiveness cultural/ the setting of public access / aspects (eg. Value Assessment Designation literary ‘Outstanding locally valued scenic beauty, Landscape (nature associations assets’ spaces. views, 1-7 Negligible Value Landscape Character No conservation, tranquillity, 8-14 Slight Area 15-21 Moderate heritage, wildness) 22-28 Substantial flooding, 29-35 Major amenity) low high 7 14 21 28 35 Upper Hale Sandy X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 1 23 Substantial Woodland

2 Old Park - west X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 20 Moderate 3 Old Park - east X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 22 Substantial 4 Castle paddocks X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 22 Substantial 5 Farnham Park X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 33 Major 6 Cemetery Fields X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 22 Substantial West Farnham Open X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 7 18 Moderate Greensand Hills Alton Road River X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 8 20 Moderate Floodplain

9 Holt Hillside X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 18 Moderate Rowledge Wooded X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 10 17 Moderate Greensand Hills Frensham Wooded X X X X X X X X X X X X X 11 12 Slight Slopes

12 Bourne Wood X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 25 Substantial Compton wooded X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 13 23 Substantial slopes Landscape Ecological and Local Any historic/ Contribution to Recreation and Perceptual Landscape Final Designation other distinctiveness cultural/ the setting of public access / aspects (eg. Value Assessment Designation literary ‘Outstanding locally valued scenic beauty, Landscape (nature associations assets’ spaces. views, 1-7 Negligible Value Landscape Character No conservation, tranquillity, 8-14 Slight Area 15-21 Moderate heritage, wildness) 22-28 Substantial flooding, 29-35 Major amenity) low high 7 14 21 28 35 14 Moor Park Valley X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 31 Major Runfold Open X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 15 22 Substantial Greensand Hills Badshot Lea X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 16 14 Slight Paddocks

17 East Farnham Mosaic X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 16 Moderate Badshot Lea Valley X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 18 20 Moderate Floor

19 Hogs Back Ridge X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 14 Slight The landscape sensitivity and value assessments of each Parish scale character area are summarised in tabulated form in Table 3 below. Landscape sensitivity and value may not be completely uniform across an entire character area.

Table 3 Landscape Sensitivity and Value Summary

Landscape Landscape No Landscape Character Area Sensitivity Value

01 Upper Hale Sandy Woodland 22 Substantial 23 Substantial 23 Substantial 02 Old Park - west 20 Moderate 23 Substantial 03 Old Park - east 22 Substantial 17 Moderate 04 Castle paddocks 22 Substantial 24 Substantial 05 Farnham Park 33 Major 19 Substantial 06 Cemetery Fields 22 Substantial 20 Substantial 07 West Farnham Open Greensand Hills 18 Moderate 19 Substantial 08 Alton Road River Floodplain 20 Moderate 14 Moderate 09 Holt Hillside 18 Moderate 16 Moderate 10 Rowledge Wooded Greensand Hills 17 Moderate 15 Moderate 11 Frensham Wooded Slopes 12 Slight 19 Substantial 12 Bourne Wood 25 Substantial 19 Substantial 13 Compton wooded slopes 23 Substantial 25 Major 14 Moor Park Valley 31 Major 19 Substantial 15 Runfold Open Greensand Hills 22 Substantial 16 Moderate 16 Badshot Lea Paddocks 14 Slight Landscape Landscape No Landscape Character Area Sensitivity Value 18 Moderate 17 East Farnham Mosaic 16 Moderate 22 Substantial 18 Badshot Lea Valley Floor 20 Moderate 19 Substantial 19 Hogs Back Ridge 14 Slight

APPENDIX 3: AMEC Judgements for Landscape Sensitivity and Value

4.2.8 The AMEC judgements for landscape sensitivity and value, for each segment are summarised in the table below:

Segment reference Sensitivity Value FN 1a High High FN 1b High High FN 1c Moderate Medium FN 2 High High FN 3 Moderate Medium FN 4 High Medium FN 5 Moderate Medium FN 6 High Medium FN 7 High Medium FN 8 High High FN 9 Moderate Medium FN 10a Low Low FN 10b Low Low FN 10c Low Medium FN 10d Low Low FN 11a Low Low FN 11b Low Low FN 11c Low Low AMEC Landscape Study Segments FN 12 High High