Ringstead Grange, near Ringstead, Northamptonshire
Proposed Development of a Quarry
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
Report Reference: CE-RS-0397-RP01a - FINAL March 2012
Produced by Crestwood Environmental Ltd.
Ringstead Grange Farm Quarry Mick George Limited
CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION ...... 3 1.1 Background ...... 3 1.2 Appointment and Scope of Work ...... 3 1.3 LVIA Structure ...... 3 1.4 General Terminology...... 4 1.5 Summary of Proposals ...... 4 2 METHODOLOGY ...... 6 2.1 General ...... 6 2.2 Baseline Situation – General ...... 7 2.3 Baseline Situation – Landscape Aspects...... 7 2.4 Baseline Situation – Visual Aspects ...... 10 2.5 Assessment of Landscape Effects ...... 11 2.6 Assessment of Visual Effects ...... 16 2.7 Assessment of Cumulative Effects ...... 21 3 THE BASELINE SITUATION ...... 23 3.1 Introduction...... 23 3.2 Site Location ...... 23 3.3 Landscape Character ...... 23 3.4 Landscape Characteristics ...... 32 3.5 Historical Land-use and Cover...... 37 3.6 Landscape Quality ...... 38 3.7 Landscape Policies and Designations ...... 39 3.8 Landscape Value ...... 45 3.9 Visual Baseline ...... 46 4 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 48 4.1 Assumptions ...... 48 4.2 Predicted Sources of Impact ...... 48 4.3 Mitigation Measures ...... 48 4.4 Landscape Impact Assessment ...... 50 4.5 Visual Impact Assessment ...... 53 4.6 Comment and Conclusions ...... 72 5 GLOSSARY ...... 74
APPENDICES:
Appendix 1 Figures L1 to L12
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LIST OF TABLES:
Table 1 Duration for Proposed Development ...... 3 Table 2 Categorisation Guidance for Landscape Quality ...... 9 Table 3 Categorisation Guidance for Landscape Value ...... 10 Table 4 Sensitivity of Landscape Receptors ...... 13 Table 5 Magnitude of Landscape Effects ...... 14 Table 6 Significance of Landscape Effects ...... 15 Table 7 Sensitivity of Visual Receptors ...... 17 Table 8 Magnitude of Visual Effects ...... 19 Table 9 Significance of Visual Effects ...... 20 Table 10 Categorisation of Cumulative Effects ...... 22 Table 11 Predicted Sources of Impact ...... 48 Table 12 Mitigation Measures Incorporated into the Proposals ...... 49 Table 13 Principal Representative Viewpoints ...... 53
LIST OF DRAWINGS:
Figure L1 Site Setting
Figure L2 Landscape Setting Plan
Figure L3 Visual Analysis Plan
Figure L4 Photograph for Viewpoint 1
Figure L5 Photograph for Viewpoint 2
Figure L6 Photograph for Viewpoint 3
Figure L7 Photograph for Viewpoint 4
Figure L8 Photograph for Viewpoint 5
Figure L9 Photograph for Viewpoint 6
Figure L10 Photograph for Viewpoint 7
Figure L11 Photograph for Viewpoint 8
Figure L12 Photograph for Viewpoint 9
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1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background 1.1.1 The Site, located on land at Ringstead Grange Farm, is around 520m south of the village of Ringstead (at its closest point) in Northamptonshire and covers an area of 64.3 ha. The market town of Raunds lies around 530m south-southeast of the Site Boundary at its nearest point. The Site lies on an area of relatively flat land at the top of the eastern and southern slopes of the River Nene Valley. 1.1.2 The Site will be operated by Mick George Ltd, who is „the Applicant‟. 1.1.3 The Applicant is seeking planning permission from Northamptonshire County Council to establish a limestone quarry with the restoration of the Site, via infilling with inert material to a landform and afteruse typical of the locality with agricultural fields, delineated with species rich hedgerows, with areas of calcareous grassland, ponds and broadleaf woodland, which will be established with appropriate aftercare measures (the Proposed Development). 1.1.4 The Proposed Development of a limestone quarrying will be developed with the anticipated timeline as illustrated in Table 1:
Table 1 Duration for Proposed Development
Operation Duration
Establishment 6 months
Mineral extraction 14 years
Importation of fill material and restoration Up to17 years
Aftercare Period 5 years
1.1.5 The Site‟s location and main areas relating to the Proposed Development are indicated on Figure L1.
1.2 Appointment and Scope of Work 1.2.1 Crestwood Environmental Ltd. is an environmental consultancy employing two landscape architects, including a chartered landscape architect with extensive experience in the minerals and waste management industry and of undertaking Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIAs). 1.2.2 The Company has been instructed by Mick George Limited, to undertake a LVIA, and to produce a restoration masterplan and details for the Proposed Development to accompany the planning application(s). This report describes the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment which has been undertaken.
1.3 LVIA Structure 1.3.1 This report is divided into the following sections as described below.
Section 2 (Methodology) describes the terminology used to define the status of views and the landscape around the Site and the procedure used to assess the impacts.
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Section 3 (The Baseline Situation) provides a description of the existing features within the Site, elements that affect the visibility of the development and the character of the landscape at the Site and locality. It provides an analysis of landscape quality and value and summarises the landscape designations and landscape planning policies relevant to the Proposed Development.
Section 4 (Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment) presents the results of the landscape and visual assessments, illustrating discrete and cumulative impacts on specific visual and landscape receptors and the significance of these impacts.
Section 5 (Glossary) provides a description of the intended use/meaning of the terms used in this assessment.
1.3.2 A list of references is provided and the drawings referred to in the assessment are located in the Appendices.
1.4 General Terminology 1.4.1 The following terms and associated definitions are used in this report (see Figure L1 also):
„the Site‟ – The land within the Application Boundary, as shown on Figure L1;
„the Proposed Development‟ – Establishment and operation of a limestone quarry at the Site with the restoration, via infilling with inert material, to a landform and afteruse typical of the locality with agricultural fields, delineated with species rich hedgerows, with areas of calcareous grassland, agricultural grassland, ponds and broadleaf woodland, which will be established with appropriate aftercare measures;
„the Initial Landscaping Zone‟ – The northwestern area of the Site, where advanced landscaping and restoration works will be undertaken. Works will include raising the landform in line with the proposed restoration contours for the Site with restoration to calcareous grassland, to provide landscape and visual mitigation;
„the Applicant‟ is Mick George Limited; and
„the Planning Authority‟ is Northamptonshire County Council (or NCC).
1.5 Summary of Proposals 1.5.1 Establishment and operation of a new limestone quarry with mineral extraction taking place for a period of up to 14 years. In year 1, advance planting and landscaping works will be undertaken to help mitigate adverse landscape and visual effects. 1.5.2 Soils and overburden will be stripped and put in to topsoil and subsoil storage mounds, for re-use in restoration, ensuring the soils from the best and most versatile land are restored to the proposed agricultural areas. 1.5.3 Extraction operations will be coupled with the progressive restoration of the Site, undertaken via the infilling of the void space with imported inert material and retained soils (previously stripped from the Site) such that the Site is restored in accordance with the proposed restoration contours.
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1.5.4 The Site will be progressively restored to an afteruse typical of the local landscape including agricultural fields delineated with species rich hedgerow, calcareous grassland, open water and native broadleaf woodland throughout the operational lifespan of the Site. 1.5.5 Upon completion of operations at the Site, the final outstanding aspects of the restoration scheme (see Drawing no. R15/04) will be implemented. Upon cessation of all extraction and restoration operations an aftercare programme will be enacted for a period of 5 years.
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2 METHODOLOGY
2.1 General 2.1.1 This assessment has been undertaken, in parallel with the evolving development proposals, in accordance with:
The Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (second edition), published April 2002 by the Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment;
Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual impact assessment (LI Advice Note 01/11); and
Landscape Character Assessment, Guidance for England and Scotland, published April 2002 by the Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage.
2.1.2 The assessment considers two separate (but inter-related) components:
Effects on the Landscape; and
Effects on Views.
2.1.3 As the two components are inter-related, the assessment of one has been undertaken alongside the other and this resultant document referred to as the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA). 2.1.4 The assessment process aims to:
Establish the baseline situation;
Identify potential sources of direct and indirect impact;
Identify impact receptors and estimate their sensitivity;
Estimate the magnitude and nature of effects;
Appraise alternatives and indicate additional/alternative measures of impact avoidance, mitigation or offset, where possible;
Re-estimate the magnitude and nature of effects; and
Provide an assessment of the significance of the mitigated effects and relate this back to the relevant Landscape Planning Policies.
2.1.5 In the presentation of this assessment, the full iterative appraisal of alternative options has been summarised only, in the interests of conciseness, i.e. the assessment of alternativeness is not presented in detail within this Chapter. 2.1.6 The assessment includes a combination of objective and subjective judgements. Subjective judgements are avoided where possible, focussing on what is experienced rather than making assumptions regarding people‟s expected responses.
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2.1.7 The assessment allows for worst-case scenarios, although indications are given as to the effects under „normal conditions‟ also, e.g. seasonal effects of vegetation. 2.1.8 No specific assessment has been made of impacts on the historic landscape character of the area. 2.1.9 The detailed assessment process and terminology used is specific to this is assessment. This is further described below with the intended meaning of some specific terms explained in the glossary provided in Section 5.
2.2 Baseline Situation – General 2.2.1 Both the landscape and visual assessment components have been undertaken against a set of Baseline Conditions (the Baseline Situation), which has been established during the first stage of the assessment process, using a combination of desk study and field survey work. This provides a transparent basis from which assessment results have been determined and against which professional judgements have been made. 2.2.2 The baseline used may be different for the landscape and visual impact assessment of specific development proposals assessed:
In isolation (i.e. where development is assessed on its own effects); and
In combination with other developments creating a similar effect (i.e. the cumulative landscape and visual effects of a number of similar developments).
2.2.3 The baseline used has been detailed in the assessment assumptions in the relevant section. 2.2.4 The study of the Baseline Situation includes a review of available document sources (e.g. published Landscape Character Assessments, Biodiversity Action Plans and landscape policy guidance), Ordnance Survey map data, historical maps, aerial photographs and the undertaking of a field survey. 2.2.5 During the field survey, the principal landscape elements and features are recorded, which, depending on their prominence and importance, contribute to the overall character of the area. Typical elements may include landform, land use, watercourses, vegetation and built development/infrastructure. 2.2.6 A check of the likely visibility of the Proposed Development is also made during the field survey, with a photographic record made and visual receptor information noted. 2.2.7 Information pertinent to the cumulative assessments is also recorded.
2.3 Baseline Situation – Landscape Aspects 2.3.1 A description of the landscape characteristics is provided in relation to the Site itself and the surrounding landscape. Further analysis of the existing landscape is also made to determine aspects such as Landscape Quality, Landscape Value (non-monetary) and site visibility (see Glossary) to assist in the determination of landscape sensitivity.
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Historic Landscape Aspects 2.3.2 Research of historic aspects of the landscape in this document is limited to sites designated for historic-related reasons and changes observed between older maps and aerial photographs. Landscape Quality 2.3.3 Landscape Quality refers to the strength of expression of landscape character and condition (intactness) of constituent characteristic elements from visual, functional, ecological and cultural perspectives. This is not the same as Scenic Beauty (see Glossary). 2.3.4 An outline evaluation of the landscape quality of the Site and surrounding landscape is provided based on the basic categories provided in Table 2 (see below).
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Table 2 Categorisation Guidance for Landscape Quality
Landscape Criteria Quality
Very strong representation of characteristics with very few (if any) minor incongruous elements present. Landscape elements are all in a strong functional and visual condition. Exceptional Cultural patterns are clear and well preserved over a wide area. In rural landscapes, the semi-natural vegetation characteristics of the character area are well established over large areas.
Characteristic elements well represented but a number of minor incongruous elements present. Landscape elements are mostly in a strong functional and visual condition. Good There is a pattern of historic components sufficient to suggest a common pattern of development. In rural landscapes, the semi-natural habitats are fairly large, closely clustered and frequent allowing relatively easy cross-interaction.
Characteristic pattern of elements but sometimes masked or disrupted by incongruous elements. Visual and functional condition of characteristic elements generally (but not necessarily entirely) ok. Ordinary Cultural pattern fairly undisturbed but lack of consistent pattern prevents categorisation as a significant example of an historic landscape type. In rural landscapes, the semi-natural habitats are in relatively discrete but medium-sized units with some opportunity for cross-interaction.
Weak or degraded landscape character with a small number of characteristic elements present and at least as many incongruous elements present. Poor Visual and functional condition of landscape elements generally poor. In rural landscapes, the semi natural habitats are of limited area and patchy, providing limited opportunity for cross-interaction.
Heavily degraded landscape character dominated by incongruous elements. Land has been subject to extensive alteration of distinctive landscape components removing its Very poor historical and cultural significance. In rural areas, there are only fragments of semi-natural vegetation present, too isolated to allow natural repopulation.
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Landscape Value 2.3.5 Judgements on the value or importance of the affected landscape are provided together with the basis of this judgement in relation to the scale of importance (e.g. local, regional or national), to whom the landscape is valued and to the particular aspects that are valued. Landscape designations provide an indication of areas where the landscape is considered to be of higher value to the community (locally, regionally or nationally). Descriptions of landscape value would be based on the category guidelines in the Table 3.
Table 3 Categorisation Guidance for Landscape Value
Importance Local County Regional National Criteria
Rare & very limited scope to High Very High Very High Exceptional mitigate
Rare but some scope to mitigate Medium High High Very high
Infrequent but scope to mitigate Low Medium Medium High
Fairly common with scope to Very Low Low Low Medium mitigate
Very common and easy to mitigate Very Low Very Low Very Low Low
2.4 Baseline Situation – Visual Aspects Zones of Visual Influence (ZVIs) 2.4.1 The visual baseline includes Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) calculations, cross-section analyses and the use of photographic records from field studies, limited to an area within which there lies the potential for significant visual effects to be caused. The initial study area for this assessment covered an area up to a distance of approximately 4.5 kilometres from the Site boundary. 2.4.2 ZVI calculations have been determined using computer-aided ground modelling software and 3D Next Map 5m contour data (at the Site itself) and Ordnance Survey Panorama data (for the wider area) and allows for both:
Curvature of the earth; and
Atmospheric refraction.
2.4.3 The ZVI map was produced using source points from which sightlines are sent out across the modelled landscape (digital terrain model or DTM) and assumes a 1.7m high eye level for the visual receptor. Major woodland shown on the OS map and aerial photographs has been assumed to provide a visual screen up to 10m in height and industrial buildings as a 6m high barrier (although in many cases both the trees and buildings were significantly higher).
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2.4.4 The ZVI does not allow for prevalent weather conditions (i.e. assumes „clear visibility‟) and unless stated on the illustrated ZVI map, does not account for localised screening effects of hedges or buildings. The calculated ZVI does not specifically illustrate visibility from upper floors of buildings. Representative Viewpoints 2.4.5 During the field study, a photographic record was made to represent the full range of potential views towards the Site, from available viewpoints within the study area. These locations are mapped, the visual receptor types recorded and viewpoint context described. No access to private locations has been obtained during the field study; the majority of photographs have been taken from as close to the properties as possible, from public locations. Where estimates of visibility have been made (using cross-section analyses, for example), this is noted. 2.4.6 The photographs have been taken using a Samsung GX-10 SLR camera using a focal length of approximately 50mm (35mm format equivalent). 2.4.7 From the record of identified visual receptors and general visibility, principal representative viewpoints have been selected. These have been included to reflect the locations most likely to incur significant visual effects within the ZVI and also to represent the typical views in the vicinity of the viewpoint and the range of visual receptor types affected. Where and if stated, specific and illustrative viewpoints have also been included for their importance as key viewpoints within the landscape. 2.4.8 The photographs used to illustrate the assessment have been „stitched‟ together using digital imaging software to provide a „panorama image‟, thus providing a visual context to the focus of the centre photograph. The photographs have been corrected for lens distortion (based on the EXIF data (Exchangeable Image File data) recorded with the image) and to correct changes of scale across the photograph and a spherical projection used to ensure consistency of scale across the panorama, vertically and horizontally. 2.4.9 When viewing the panorama, the image should be kept flat and viewed face-on. The viewing distance (i.e. the distance between the eye and the illustrated panorama for each viewpoint) that should be used to view the image is marked against each photograph included in the figures. Using this viewing distance helps to more accurately replicate the scale of the elements in the view to that which would be seen in the field, such that a more representative impression of potential effects can be gained by the reader.
2.5 Assessment of Landscape Effects General 2.5.1 Landscape effects derive from changes in the physical landscape (landscape elements), which may give rise to change in how the landscape is experienced (together with landscape elements these are termed „landscape characteristics’). Areas with similar landscape characteristics can be described as having a certain landscape character or of being a particular landscape character type. These can be described and categorised at different scales depending on criteria used.
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2.5.2 The context of a location, in its wider setting, can influence the experience of the landscape and therefore its landscape character. Therefore, changes in the landscape character at one location can potentially affect the context of another landscape character type. In certain situations this can have an effect on the setting of valued or important landscape elements (e.g. registered parks and gardens or listed buildings). 2.5.3 The landscape impact assessment describes the likely nature and scale of changes to individual landscape elements and characteristics and the consequential effect on the landscape character in relation to the development site itself and on the wider landscape. Due to the inherently dynamic nature of the landscape, it can be accepted that change arising from a development may not necessarily be significant. 2.5.4 A „significant‟ landscape impact results when a landscape capacity „threshold‟ is exceeded, resulting in a change to the landscape character (either in a positive or negative direction). The landscape capacity is related to landscape sensitivity. Landscape Sensitivity 2.5.5 Landscape sensitivity primarily relates to the sensitivity of the landscape elements to change (i.e. the condition and value of the landscape elements together with the strength/importance of contribution they make towards the landscape character and how resilient to change or replicable they are individually). 2.5.6 Landscape sensitivity also relates, in a more holistic sense, to the sensitivity of the landscape character to change (landscape character sensitivity) – i.e. the landscape value of the landscape character and the degree to which the combination of landscape characteristics (including landscape structure and quality) present can resist or recover from change or be replicated. Some indication of this can be gained from local landscape policy guidance. 2.5.7 Landscape sensitivity ratings have been categorised as described in Table 4.
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Table 4 Sensitivity of Landscape Receptors
Sensitivity Landscape Landscape Character
A large number of key elements are susceptible to Typically internationally recognised landscape with Very High change and are very difficult to replace without strong landscape structure and many distinct affecting the existing character features worthy of conservation
Typically of national or regional recognition with A number of key elements/characteristics are recognisable landscape structure and some High susceptible to change and fairly difficult to replace features worthy of conservation; may contain without affecting the existing character occasional detracting features
Typically of county or district recognition or non- A number of elements/characteristics are designated, but value expressed through susceptible to change but there is scope to consensus, demonstrable use or non-official Medium replace these elements without adversely affecting publications. Distinguishable landscape structure, the character few or no features of conservation; some detracting features
Typically of local recognition, non-designated A small number of elements/characteristics are areas with no features worthy of conservation. Low potentially susceptible to change but are easily Weak landscape structure or transitional in nature; replaced and potentially enhanced some evidence of degradation and frequent detracting features
Remaining elements/characteristics are not Typically areas identified for recovery. Damaged susceptible to change. High probability to mitigate landscape structure, evidence of severe Very Low or replace the lost elements and to enhance the disturbance or dereliction; detracting features existing landscape dominate
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Magnitude of Landscape Effects 2.5.8 The Magnitude of change (in the landscape) is concerned with the number of changes and scale of change to the landscape characteristics and their duration. The magnitude of landscape effects has been categorised as follows in the 5.
Table 5 Magnitude of Landscape Effects
Magnitude of Landscape Criteria Landscape Effect
Typically, large scale changes and/or numerous changes to important Very Large landscape characteristics
Typically, large scale changes to some landscape characteristics, or Large a high number of medium scale changes to the landscape characteristics
Medium Typically, some medium scale changes to some landscape characteristics
Typically, a low number of medium scale changes to landscape Small characteristics, or a number of small scale changes to landscape characteristics
Typically, occasional, small scale changes to unimportant landscape Very Small characteristics
2.5.9 In general, the duration weighting applied to magnitude is as follows:
Very Long term effect: 20+ years
Long term effect: 10-20 years
Medium term effect: 3-10 years
Short term effect: 1-3 years
Temporary effect: Less than 1 year
2.5.10 Where variations between relevant criteria, duration etc. occur, reasoned professional judgement is applied and described in the assessment to determine the magnitude of effect. Nature of Landscape Effect 2.5.11 Changes to landscape characteristics can be of a positive, negative or neutral nature. The determination of the nature of effect on landscape receptors is related to the Baseline Situation and what is recognised to be either a desirable or an undesirable change (e.g. from assessments of landscape quality, landscape policy guidance and biodiversity action plans). A neutral effect may occur, for example, if a characteristic element is replaced with a different but equally characteristic element. Therefore, it is possible for there to be a large magnitude of change but with a neutral effect overall.
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Significance of Landscape Effects 2.5.12 The significance of a landscape effect (impact) is a function of the sensitivity of the affected landscape receptor, the magnitude of change and the nature of effect. While the methodology is designed to be robust and transparent, professional judgement is ultimately applied to determine the significance of each effect. 2.5.13 The degree of landscape significance is defined in Table 6. These are different for beneficial and adverse effects. Generally, an effect, which is of „Major‟ significance or above, is likely to be a pertinent „material consideration‟ in the decision-making process. 2.5.14 Neutral effects are considered to be of „Negligible‟ significance.
Table 6 Significance of Landscape Effects
Significance Adverse Landscape Effects Beneficial Landscape Effects
Overall, typically, there may be some Small Overall, typically, there may be some Small scale Negligible scale, Short-term impacts but virtually no lasting Short-term positive impacts but virtually no lasting adverse effect on existing landscape character. beneficial effect on existing landscape character
Overall, typically, landscape character and quality Typically: is slightly improved via strengthening of some Some Small-Medium scale effects on existing valued characteristic landscape elements for a poor landscape character and quality. Long-term duration, in high and Very High Minor Very Small or Temporary changes to Medium sensitivity landscapes where limited scope to sensitivity landscape. provide improvement exists, or Minimal effect on landscape character. Some shorter duration improvements to landscapes of lower sensitivity
Overall, typically, landscape character and quality Typically: is improved via the introduction of characteristic Large scale and Long term changes to landscape elements and the removal of landscapes of low sensitivity. incongruous landscape elements: Some Medium scale changes to Medium Permanently and greatly in highly sensitive areas; Moderate sensitivity landscape. For a number of characteristics for a Medium- Very Small or Temporary changes to highly Long-term duration in areas of Medium sensitive landscape. landscape sensitivity; Noticeable effect on the landscape without For a small number of characteristics for a Short- exceeding the landscape capacity threshold. Medium-term duration in lower sensitivity landscapes
Typically: Overall, typically, landscape character and quality Numerous Long-term effects on Medium is significantly improved via removal of some sensitivity landscape. existing incongruous landscape elements and Major Small permanent effects on highly sensitivity introduction/restoration of some valued landscape. characteristic landscape elements in lower and Medium sensitivity landscapes where much Landscape character and quality is affected to a scope to provide improvement exists significant degree.
Proposals would remove substantial numbers of Proposals are at complete variance with many existing incongruous landscape elements and key characteristics of a highly valued and high introduce a number of highly desirable landscape Massive quality landscape and affect the landscape for a elements to substantially restore an area of significant period. landscape character of high potential landscape value and quality for a Very Long-term period
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2.6 Assessment of Visual Effects General 2.6.1 Visual effects relate to the changes that arise in the composition of available views due to changes in a landscape scene, to people‟s responses to the changes and to the overall effects with respect to visual amenity. They are defined as the relationship between the visual sensitivity, the magnitude of visual effect and the nature of visual effect. Visual Sensitivity 2.6.2 The sensitivity of the visual receptor will be influenced by the following factors:
Location and context of the viewpoint and the significance of the view in relation to valued landscapes or features;
Characteristics of the view, e.g. whether it is continuous or intermittent and static or transient;
The importance of the view and the activity or expectations of the receptor at the viewpoint;
Numbers of people affected and whether the viewpoint is publicly accessible (viewpoints at public locations are normally considered more sensitive than those at private locations although where many private residential locations are affected, a community may be affected); and
The „popularity‟ or value of the view (e.g. as noted in guidebooks).
2.6.3 Locations (rooms) used in daylight hours are normally considered more sensitive than locations used during night hours. 2.6.4 The terminology in Table 7 was used to describe sensitivity with regard to visual receptors:
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Table 7 Sensitivity of Visual Receptors
Visual Relevant Criteria Typical Receptor Types/Locations Sensitivity
Nationally well recognised and advertised location for high visual amenity. National Trail users. Prominent location or vista with high visual Visitors to nationally recognised, well known and Very High amenity. used attractions (e.g. important National Trust sites) where visual amenity is very important to Very high expectations of visual amenity. its enjoyment. May affect many receptors.
Well-known area locally/regionally for high visual Users of widely advertised circular or well-used amenity. footpath routes (e.g. recreational routes) where primary enjoyment is from the landscape and Open areas of recognised public access where visual amenity and there are few route options. High primary enjoyment is of the views of the landscape. Locations where direct views from daytime residential rooms/gardens can be gained. High expectations of visual amenity. Public houses, restaurants etc. with direct views May affect a number of visual receptors. towards the development
General recognised public access routes with some landscape interest although there is some choice of route. Locations provide visual amenity and some open views, but amenity not well recognised beyond Views from recreational sports areas where amenity is gained from the landscape setting but Medium locality. is not essential to the activity. Moderate expectations of visual amenity. Residential rooms used primarily during night Moderate numbers of people may be affected. hours but with direct views towards the development, or residential properties with indirect views
People travelling from one place to another (e.g. general road) Viewpoint context and location does not provide many open views. Other recognised public access routes where Low little landscape or visual amenity present. Fairly low numbers of people may be affected. Places of work where some enjoyment from Low expectations of visual amenity landscape context and relevant to type of work undertaken
Viewpoint context is such that current visual amenity is lacking People at their place of work where visual amenity currently lacking. Expectations of visual amenity are very low. Very Low People travelling along direct fast routes where Numbers of people affected may be low. context and view changes rapidly (e.g. train, Activity at viewpoint is largely incidental to the motorway) view.
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Magnitude of Visual Effects 2.6.5 The magnitude or scale of visual change is described by reference to elements such as:
The extent/proportion of change within the view;
The duration of the effect;
The angle of view and backdrop (e.g. skyline);
The distance of receptor (viewpoint) from the development; and
The area where changes will be visible.
2.6.6 The extent of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape scene with the existing or remaining landscape elements and characteristics in terms of form, scale and mass, line, height, colour and texture is also considered. 2.6.7 Viewpoint proximity to the source of impact was classed as follows:
Close-range: Within 250m
Medium-range: Between 250m and 1,000m
Long-range: Between 1,000m and 2,500m
Very Long-range Over 2,500m
2.6.8 In general, the duration weighting applied to magnitude is as follows:
Very Long term effect: 20+ years
Long term effect: 10-20 years
Medium term effect: 3-10 years
Short term effect: 1-3 years
Temporary effect: Less than 1 year
The terminology in 8 was adopted for the definition of magnitude for visual effects:
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Table 8 Magnitude of Visual Effects
Magnitude of Visual Criteria Visual Effect
Where the proposals become the only dominant feature in the scene and to which all other elements Very Large become subordinate.
Where the proposals would form a significant and immediately apparent element of the scene and Large would affect the overall impression of the view.
Where proposals would form a visible and recognisable new development which may have an effect Medium on visual amenity but is not intrusive within the overall view.
Where proposals constitute only a minor component of the wider view, which the casual observer Small could miss or where awareness only slightly affects the overall visual amenity afforded.
Where only a very small part of the development is discernible or that it is at such a distance that the Very Small effects are scarcely appreciated.
2.6.9 Where variations between relevant criteria, duration etc. occur, reasoned professional judgement is applied and described in the assessment to determine the magnitude of effect. Nature of Visual Effect 2.6.10 Changes to view can be of a positive, negative or neutral nature. The determination of the nature of effect on view is related to the Baseline Situation and what is considered to be either a desirable or an undesirable change. The assessment of the nature of visual effect focuses on what is experienced, although some professional judgement has (by necessity) been applied to consider the subjective matter of whether the change could generally be received by the visual receptors as positive, negative or neutral. The assumptions and judgements made are reasoned in the text. 2.6.11 A neutral effect may occur, for example, if a large number of elements in the landscape scene, forming a large proportion of the view, are changed but the resultant change in the composition, character and make-up of the view is small. Therefore, it is possible for there to be a large magnitude of change but with a neutral effect overall. Significance of Visual Effects 2.6.12 The significance of visual effects (impact) is a function of the sensitivity of the affected visual receptor, the magnitude of change and the nature of effect. While the methodology is designed to be robust and transparent, professional judgement is ultimately applied to determine the significance of each effect. 2.6.13 The results of the assessment have been presented by providing a brief description of the existing view from each principal representative viewpoint, followed by a description of changes to the view and the landscape scene and an analysis of the magnitude and nature of the effects. 2.6.14 The significance of visual effects is defined in the table given below. These are different for beneficial and adverse effects. Generally, an effect which is of „Major‟ significance, or above, is likely to be a pertinent „material consideration‟ in the decision-making process. 2.6.15 Neutral effects are considered to be of „Negligible‟ significance.
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See Table 9:
Table 9 Significance of Visual Effects
Significance Adverse Visual Effects Beneficial Visual Effects
Adverse effect has minimal significance due to Beneficial effect has minimal significance due to low visual amenity even from otherwise sensitive limited scope to improve existing view even from Negligible viewpoints. sensitive viewpoints. Produces only very slight deterioration to views. Provides only very slight improvement to views.
Typically: Typically: Large-very large scale deterioration to low Medium scale improvements to existing views sensitivity views of low quality. with high visual amenity and Medium sensitivity. Small scale deterioration to lower and Medium Minor Small scale improvements to views of low visual sensitivity views of high quality. amenity from low sensitivity viewpoints. Very Small-Medium scale deterioration to higher Very Small scale improvements to low quality sensitivity receptors with low existing visual high sensitivity views amenity.
Typically: Typically: Noticeable large-scale improvement in Noticeable Long-term or Large scale deterioration unimportant views with low existing visual in low sensitivity but high quality views. amenity and visual sensitivity. Medium scale deterioration to Medium sensitivity Small to Medium scale improvements to views Moderate high quality views and Very Large changes to low from Medium and High sensitivity viewpoints with quality views. low existing visual amenity. Small scale and Temporary deterioration in Very Small scale improvements in existing low Highly sensitive and high amenity value views visual amenity from Very High sensitivity and larger scale deterioration in low quality views. viewpoints.
Typically: Medium scale deterioration in High sensitivity, Typically: high quality views, or larger scale deterioration in Large to Very Large scale improvements at High sensitivity but lower quality views. Medium to High sensitivity locations. Major Small scale deterioration to higher sensitivity Medium to Large scale improvements to High views of high quality. sensitivity viewpoints with low existing visual Considerable Long-term deterioration in Medium amenity sensitivity views of high amenity value.
Clear and obvious Very Large-scale adverse Clear and obvious very large scale changes changes resulting in considerable and Long-term resulting in considerable and Long-term Massive deterioration in Highly sensitive and important improvement in existing poor view for large views for large numbers of receptors numbers of High sensitivity receptors
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2.7 Assessment of Cumulative Effects General 2.7.1 The cumulative landscape and visual effects of two or more developments may be more or less than the sum of the individual effects and therefore may need to be assessed in addition to the assessment of effects of a proposed development undertaken in isolation of other similar developments. 2.7.2 The assessment of cumulative effects may require different baseline assumptions to be made, to allow the assessment to differentiate between isolated and cumulative effects. For example, the assessment of an extension to a quarry would normally assume the existing permitted quarry development and its associated approved scheme of working and restoration to be part of the Baseline Situation. In this example situation the assessment of the proposed extension may result in effects of lower significance than if the original quarry and the extension had been assessed together at the same time. The test of cumulative effects is to determine whether this cumulative effect is significant, or significantly different to the isolated assessment. 2.7.3 Justification of the assumed Baseline Situation is provided to allow a transparent assessment process, as the permutations of possible baseline situations are potentially numerous. For example, an extension to a quarry which has been in place for many decades may not be considered in the same way as a quarry which has only been in place for a couple of years – the baseline situation for each in terms of cumulative assessment therefore needs to be adjusted to reflect the individual situation. Consideration may need to be given to results of previous assessments, e.g. to find out if a proposal was given permission despite there being significant landscape/visual effects. 2.7.4 Cumulative effects may take into account:
Other existing (built or partially built) developments;
Other approved developments that have not yet been built; and
Other proposed developments awaiting determination of approval.
This assessment takes into account existing developments creating potential cumulative effects of a similar nature (i.e. quarrying and infilling) only. The existing developments that are likely to occur at the same time as the Proposed Development only have been considered. 2.7.5 As only the Baseline Situation may be changed for the cumulative assessment, the assessment process remains the same and so the same terminology is applied. Cumulative Visual Effects 2.7.6 Cumulative visual effects can be gained in combination (i.e. where two or more similar developments are visible from one viewpoint) and sequentially (i.e. when two or more similar developments are visible from different viewpoints along a route (e.g. a railway line, recognised tourist route or recreational footpath). Cumulative visual effects can be further categorised as follows in Table 10:
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Table 10 Categorisation of Cumulative Effects
Cumulative Sub-type of Description Visual Effect Effect
Two or more developments visible from one viewpoint in field of view gained Simultaneous from looking in one direction Combined Effect Two or more developments visible from one viewpoint only by changing Successive orientation of viewing direction (i.e. by turning round)
Where similar visual effects are experienced along a route, from different Frequently viewpoints separated by short distances or short time gaps (e.g. along a sequential motorway) Sequential Effect Where similar visual effects are experienced along a route, from different Occasionally viewpoints separated by large distances or long time gaps (e.g. along a long sequential distance footpath)
2.7.7 A cumulative perceived effect may occur due to a receptors‟ knowledge of developments‟ proximity to one another, even though they may not be visible. Cumulative Landscape Effects 2.7.8 Cumulative landscape effects can occur in relation to landscape elements individually and also in combination (landscape character). For example, a quarry development may have resulted in the partial loss of a particular habitat, but in such a way that the habitat‟s contribution to the landscape character is not significantly affected. The change would still create a new Baseline Situation for a proposed extension to the quarry than if the quarry and extension had been proposed together as one development. I.e. in the example, the landscape effects of the extension may not be significant but the combined landscape effects of the quarry and extension may be significant (due to differing Baseline Situations). 2.7.9 The cumulative effects on landscape elements of the Proposed Development have been assessed (in this assessment) in relation to the baseline development at the Site only, i.e. not in relation to the effects of other developments in the area. 2.7.10 The cumulative effects on landscape character take into account the wider area and the effects of developments within.
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3 THE BASELINE SITUATION
3.1 Introduction 3.1.1 The Baseline Situation represents the existing situation both within the Site and within the locality. The description is confined to those elements that could affect, or be affected by, the visibility and landscape character of the Proposed Development. 3.1.2 Figure L1 illustrates the principal features within the local landscape for which a description has been provided below. 3.1.3 Relevant Landscape Character Assessments are described first followed by more specific field observations and analysis of the characteristics of the local landscape. An outline analysis of the landscape quality and value is provided, referencing landscape designations where applicable. 3.1.4 Relevant Biodiversity Action Plan targets, planning policies and guidance from the Development Plan and the findings of the other relevant environmental impact assessments undertaken have been used to provide the framework for the restoration proposals and to identify common objectives in relation to the Proposed Development.
3.2 Site Location 3.2.1 The Site is located on land forming Ringstead Grange Farm. The centre of the village of Ringstead is situated approximately 800m northeast of the Site at its closest point, with the market town of Raunds around 530m south-southeast of the Site access point at its nearest point. The villages of Little Addington and Great Addington are around 1.5km from the Site, to the west and northwest of the Site respectively. 3.2.2 The Site is north of the A45 as it passes to the north of Raunds. The Site is located in Ringstead Parish, part of East Northamptonshire Borough Council.
3.3 Landscape Character 3.3.1 A number of published landscape character assessments will be used as references to inform the design and assessment of the Proposed Development, particularly in relation to the landscape and visual impact assessment process and the formation of the restoration proposals. Relevant references are:
Countryside Agency (1999), Countryside Character - Volume 4: East Midlands;
Natural England (April 2010), East Midlands Regional Landscape Character Assessment;
Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Current Landscape Character Assessment;
Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Historic Landscape Character Assessment;
Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Biodiversity Character Assessment;
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Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Environmental Character Assessment; and
English Nature (Sept 1997), West Anglian Plain Natural Area Profile.
3.3.2 The Site falls within the:
„Northamptonshire Vales‟ National Landscape Character Area;
„Northamptonshire Vales‟ Regional Landscape Character Area;
„Floodplain Valley‟ Regional Landscape Character Type;
„Limestone Valley Slopes‟ County Landscape Character Type;
„Higham Ferrers to Thrapston‟ County Landscape Character Area;
„Cropped Claylands‟ and „Limestone Slopes‟ County Biodiversity Character Type;
„Hargrave and Chelveston‟ and „Highham Ferrers to Titchmarsh Limestone Slopes‟ County Biodiversity Character Areas;
„West Anglian Plain‟ English Nature Natural Area;
„Large Modern Fields‟ County Historic Landscape Character Type;
„Nene Valley: Little Addington to Ringstead‟ County Historic Landscape Character Area; and
„Middle Nene (Northampton - Aldwincle)‟ Countryside and County Environmental Character Area.
National Character Area: 3.3.3 The Site is situated in the eastern part of the ‘Northamptonshire Vales’ National Character Area (LCA 89). In summary, the Northamptonshire Vales area comprises:
Large, complex and heterogeneous area comprising of low lying clay vales and river valleys between wold landscapes and other areas of higher ground;
Gentle clay ridges and valleys with little woodland and strong patterns of Tudor and parliamentary enclosure often with low, but well maintained, hedges and variable densities of hedgerow trees;
Woodlands are small mainly confined to valley sides and to copses and spinney on the ridges;
Distinctive river valleys of Soar, Welland and Nene with flat floodplains and gravel terraces;
Large towns of Leicester and Northampton dominate much of the landscape; Frequent small towns and large villages, prominent parks and country houses;
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Great diversity of landscape and settlement pattern with many sub units, e.g. Nene Valley and Welland Valley;
Much of the floodplain is now dominated by either active gravel working of the lakes formed on former workings and is crossed by willow lined causeway roads;
North of Ringstead village, the landscape is unaffected by the gravel industry and the flood plain has meadows of high nature conservation. The land is in both arable and pastoral use and the landscape is dominated by a rectilinear field pattern; and
Frequent imposing, spired churches like at Fotheringley within older village centres with attractive stone buildings.
Regional Landscape Character Area and Type: 3.3.4 The Site is situated in the eastern part of the „Northamptonshire Vales‟ Regional Landscape Character Area and the ‘Floodplain Valley’ (Group 3a) Regional Landscape Character Type1. This landscape character type is found throughout the region along the broad river valleys with a predominance of permanent pasture on riverside meadows and arable fields on drier gravel terrace. The description for this area is summarised as follows:
Deep alluvium and gravel deposits mask underlying bedrock geology to create wide, flat alluvial floodplains surrounded by rising landform of adjacent Landscape Character Types;
River channels, often along managed courses, bordered by riparian habitat;
Predominance of pastoral land use, with cereal growing increasing in some areas. „Warping‟ areas subject to more intensive cereal growing;
Limited woodland cover; however, steep riverside bluffs and areas close to settlement or on former gravel extraction sites notable for a higher level of woodland cover;
Regular pattern of medium to large fields defined by hedgerows or post and wire fencing, breaking down and becoming open in some areas;
Hedgerow and riverside trees important component of landscape. Alder, Willow and Poplar are typical riverside trees;
Limited settlement and development in rural areas;
Sewage Treatment Works and power stations common close to larger settlements that fringe the floodplains;
Roads and communication routes often define the outer edges of the floodplain; and
Restoration of sand and gravel extraction sites to open water creates new character across many areas.
1 Natural England (April 2010), East Midlands Regional Landscape Character Assessment
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County Landscape Character Type 3.3.5 The Site falls wholly within the ‘Limestone Valley Slopes’ County Landscape Character Type2. The key characteristics are listed as:
Transitional landscape displaying characteristics of surrounding landscape character types;
Gently undulating farmed slopes bordering the Nene and its principal tributaries;
Expansive long distance views and wide panoramas across the valley to neighbouring landscapes;
Predominance of arable land with isolated areas of improved and semi improved pasture and seaside land;
Very sparse woodland cover comprising small deciduous and occasionally coniferous shelterbelts limiting the sense of exposure locally, fields predominantly large, and medium to large;
Larger, sub regular rectangular fields enclose arable fields, with smaller small to medium sized regular pasture fields surround villages or where improved pasture is more frequent ;
Fields generally enclosed by hedgerows with intermittent mature hedgerow trees, often showing signs of decline leading to a landscape of open character;
Communication routes principally limited to direct roads parallel to the course of the main river channel, minor roads connecting small settlements; and
Previously large areas had been cleared for farming, and today there are few sizeable or noteworthy areas of woodland; wooded areas are generally small broadleaved copses or moderate sized mixed plantations; and
Poplar shelterbelts are sometimes within the landscape.
3.3.6 The character assessment‟s comments on ‘Aesthetic and Perceptual Qualities’ of the landscape character type are: “The landscape is characterised by gently undulating, productive farmland. Land shelves gently to the Nene. From elevated areas, wide views are possible over the landscape to the course of the valley, and beyond into neighbouring landscape types. Here, the landscape is perceived as relatively open and elevated, an absence of woodland and hedgerow trees increasing the frequency of long distance viewing opportunities. By contrast, on the lower slopes of the valley towards the Nene and along stretches of the more significant tributaries to the west of the Nene, views are more limited and a more intimate and human scale character is experienced.”
2 Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Current Landscape Character Assessment
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3.3.7 The character assessment‟s comments on „Local Distinctiveness, Landscape Condition and Landscape Change‟ are: “The landscape marks the transition between the flat riverine landscapes of the Broad River Valley Floodplain and contrasting agricultural and wooded landscapes, comprising the Farmed Claylands, the Wooded Clay Plateau and the Clay Plateau beyond the valley. As a result, the Limestone Valley Slopes display characteristics of each and are distinctive for this reason. The predominance of arable farming has resulted in the reduced need for well- maintained boundaries and consequently hedgerows are showing signs of decline. In many areas, however, low, neat and well maintained hedges are in evidence and give the landscape a productive and managed character. The absence of woodlands indicates that widespread clearance for agriculture has taken place, and indeed the proximity to the heart of Rockingham Forest to the west of the Nene suggests that prior to intensive agriculture practices, the landscape would have been more heavily wooded. The expansion of urban areas in recent years has resulted in the despoiling of some areas of the landscape on the urban fringes of settlements, although the impact is relatively localised. Elsewhere, attractive villages, such as Fotheringhay, have retained their historic character. They make a significant contribution to local landscape character and distinctiveness.” County Landscape Character Area 3.3.8 The Site lies in the „Higham Ferrers to Thrapston (Area 12b)‟ County Landscape Character Area3 which is described as: “Extending from Higham Ferrers to Thrapston, this area of the Limestone Valley Slopes is the most southern of the sequence of character areas. It is bordered by the River Nene Broad River Valley Floodplain to the west, and Chelveston and Caldecott Farmed Claylands to the east. The area rises gently from the broad, flat floodplain of the River Nene to the surrounding Farmed Claylands. The Higham Ferrers to Thrapston Character Area is characterised by a predominance of arable cereals interspersed with fields of arable horticulture, generally large, and medium to large in size, and regular in shape, emphasising the subtle undulations of the area. Small pockets of improved pastures and calcareous grassland are evident, however, around settlements, including Denford, Ringstead, Stanwick, the northeastern edge of Higham Ferrers, and on the western edge of the character area adjacent to the site of the medieval village of Mallows Cotton. Fields in close proximity to settlements are also generally smaller in size. As is typical of the type, woodland cover is limited to scattered broadleaved copses and areas of young tree planting in the northern section of the character area, north of Denford, and scattered hedgerow trees, including ash and stag headed ash. Distant views towards scattered woodlands within the Farmed Claylands create a greater sense of cover, however, despite the overall lack of woodland. The landscape is relatively well settled, with the village of Stanwick descending the slopes, and Ringstead and Denford villages located immediately adjacent to the
3 Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Current Landscape Character Assessment
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floodplain. The village of Stanwick, although set back from the River Nene, is located along a small tributary flowing into the main river. The villages are compact having developed around a church, central to each of the villages. Stanwick is the largest of the settlements having developed up the valley slopes, in a predominantly west and east direction; Denford, smaller in size, has developed below the valley slopes, adjacent to the river. Beyond the villages lies a rural landscape of scattered farms and dwellings set back from the roadside. Silage bales stacked adjacent to farms and outbuildings can frequently be seen within the landscape. The urban centres of Higham Ferrers, Raunds and Thrapston also border the character area, resulting in a strong urban influence in places. Pylons passing through the area, along with noise intrusion from the A45(T), contribute further to urbanising elements within the landscape.” County Biodiversity Character Type 3.3.9 The eastern part of the Site lies in the „Cropped Clayland‟ County Biodiversity Character Type4 with the western parts of the Site falling in the „Limestone Slopes’ County Biodiversity Character Type. 3.3.10 Key characteristics of the Cropped Claylands are:
Boulder Clay forms the predominant surface geology, with variable amounts of Glacial
Sand and Gravel;
heavy, stony, slowly permeable clay soils overlie the thicker boulder clay deposits;
more permeable, deeper soils overlie thinner Boulder Clay and Glacial Sands and Gravel;
poor retention of unimproved semi-natural habitats;
some retention of typical ash - field maple woodland;
many woodlands of ancient origin have been converted to mixed plantations;
limited areas of unimproved mesotrophic ridge and furrow grasslands comprising both knapweed - crested dog’s-tail and Yorkshire fog - tufted hair-grass grassland communities;
few watercourses and springs; and
some small farm ponds.
3.3.11 Key characteristics of the Limestone Slopes are:
A range of limestone formations of the Great and Upper Inferior Oolite Group;
easily worked, well-drained, slightly to moderately stony, calcareous clay loam soils;
arable cropping is the principal land use;
4 Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Biodiversity Character Assessment
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woodland retention is low, mainly comprising plantations associated with quarrying and game coverts;
calcareous grasslands are typical of former ironstone quarries and disused railway lines; and
scrub and ponds are features of many former quarries.
County Biodiversity Character Area 3.3.12 The eastern parts of the Site primarily lie in the „Hargrave and Chelveston‟ County Biodiversity Character Area5 with western parts of the Site falling in the „Highham Ferrers to Titchmarsh Limestone Slopes‟ County Biodiversity Character Area. 3.3.13 The ‘Hargrave and Chelveston’ County Biodiversity Character Area is described as an: “area of 53km2 lying between the Nene Valley and the county boundary with Cambridgeshire. Thrapston is at the north-eastern corner and Higham Ferrers is immediately to the southwest. It is a formerly wooded area, part of the forest of bromswold, with the village of Newton Bromswold providing a reminder. There are isolated woodlands of ancient origin to the east in Cambridgeshire, but none remain in this part of Northamptonshire. The land is now predominantly arable farmland with occasional and fragmentary retention of poor quality semi-natural habitat on road verges, disused railways and in recently managed woodlands. The wildlife value of the majority of these sites is declining. Denford old ash is apparently a small patch of former ancient woodland, although not included in the ancient woodland inventory. Despite clearance and the subsequent development of dense scrub, some bluebell hyacinthoides non-scripta remains, along with scattered oak quercus robur, ash fraxinus excelsior and hazel corylus avellana coppice stools. Areas of woodland at old meadow and Stanwick Pastures have also been cleared, but they have been subsequently replanted with broadleaved species. Had these sites been located in a more heavily wooded area the value of the habitat would have been minimal, however in this area they provide important refuges for common local species. Dry grasslands are represented by two road verges, both of which have deteriorated in recent years. The Caldecott verges comprises mainly coarse grasses except for a broad patch where species typical of mesotrophic grassland include red fescue festuca rubra meadow vetchling lathyrus pratensis, common knapweed centaurea nigra, wild carrot daucus carota and cat’s-ear hypochaeris radicata. The Hargrave verges include field scabious centaurea scabiosa, bird’s-foot trefoil lotus corniculatus and meadow vetchling lathyrus pratensis, all of which are indicative of a more calcareous influence. Disused railway lines also provide valuable wildlife corridors. Raunds disused railway cutting is a wildlife site that has been colonised by dense and varied scrub and young trees, offering valuable cover for birds and mammals amongst otherwise intensively managed farmland. However, its value as a wildlife corridor is reduced as it is severed by the a45 and used as a farm access to the south. Similarly beggar’s lane near Stanwick pastures is also a useful wildlife corridor through arable farmland. The green
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lane comprises rank grassland with occasional patches of more species-rich vegetation, including red fescue festuca rubra, common knapweed centaurea nigra and yarrow achillea millefolium.” 3.3.14 The „Highham Ferrers to Titchmarsh Limestone Slopes‟ County Biodiversity Character Area is described as: “24km2 of land predominantly over Blisworth Limestone Formation and Whitby Mudstone Formation on the eastern side of the middle nene valley. The only remaining unimproved semi natural habitats are grasslands, although the disused railway at Titchmarsh is principally of value as a wildlife corridor. Woodland cover is very low and land use is mainly arable. The Stanwick verges mainly overlie Blisworth Limestone Formation and comprise species-rich tall neutral grassland with a calcareous influence in places. The dominant grasses include false oatgrass arrhenatherum elatius, timothy phleum pratense, creeping bent agrostis stolonifera, common bent a. capillaris, red fescue festuca rubra and rough meadow-grass poa trivialis. Herb species are very frequent, and include common knapweed centaurea nigra, greater knapweed c. scabiosa, field scabious knautia arvensis, knapweed broomrape orobanche elatior, sorrel rumex acetosa, yarrow achillea millefolium, cow parsley anthriscus sylvestris, pepper saxifrage silaum silaus, burnet saxifrage pimpinella saxifraga and abundant ribwort plantain plantago lanceolata. Rushden Field has a fairly homogeneous stand of tall grasses interspersed with shorter, finer grasses and neutral grassland vegetation on Whitby mudstone formation. species present include false oat-grass arrhenatherum elatius, red fescue festuca rubra, yorkshire fog holcus lanatus, meadow foxtail alopecurus pratensis, smooth meadow grass poa pratensis, timothy phleum pratense, perennial rye grass lolium perenne and locally frequent common bent agrostis capillaris, crested dog’s tail cynosurus cristatus and yellow oat-grass trisetum flavescens. Herb species include lady’s bedstraw galium verum, bird’s-foot-trefoil lotus corniculatus, ribwort plantain plantago lanceolata, meadow buttercup ranunculus acris, and localised patches of yellow rattle rhinanthus minor. Titchmarsh Disused Railway is a shallow disused railway cutting with a small amount of neutral grassland along the track, but mostly overgrown with scrub, including hawthorn crataegus monogyna, blackthorn prunus spinosa, buckthorn rhamnus cathartica, dog rose rosa canina and crab apple malus sylvestris. Its main value is as a wildlife corridor”. Natural Area Profile 3.3.15 Natural Areas have been formally defined as “biogeographic zones that reflect the geological foundation, the natural systems and processes and the wildlife in different parts of England, and provide a framework for setting objectives for nature conservation” (Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report, HMSO, 1995). 3.3.16 Natural Areas provide a regional scale at which to view the wildlife resource, from both a national and local perspective and they are used by Natural England as an ecologically coherent framework for setting objectives for nature conservation.
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3.3.17 The Site falls within the „West Anglian Plain‟ Natural Area6. The vision for this Natural Area is that “river floodplains would be restored so that wet grassland is again a characteristic feature. Woodland and grassland would be managed and isolated habitats linked where possible. The surrounding matrix of farmland would be managed to support a diverse range of typical farmland wildlife”. 3.3.18 The profile details the habitats and species that characterise the area (and assist in guiding the Proposed Development towards a suitable restoration goal) and include:
Open waters; Ancient semi-natural broadleaved woodland; Swamps; Valley mires; and Reedbeds; Arable land. Marshes and flood meadows;
Neutral unimproved grassland;
Historic Character 3.3.19 The Northamptonshire Historic Landscape Character Assessment7 (dated 2005) “outlines the main human elements and processes that have influenced the physical character of the (Northamptonshire) county and is intended to serve as a background to the accompanying descriptions of the Historic Landscape Character Areas (HCLA)”. 3.3.20 The Site lies in the „Large Modern Fields‟ Historic Landscape Character Type and in the „Nene Valley: Little Addington to Ringstead (7f)‟ Historic Landscape Character Area. The main characteristics of the historic landscape character type are:
Clay geologies;
Large irregular fieldscapes;
Small settlements and scattered isolated farmsteads;
Few deserted medieval village or ridge and furrow earthworks; and
Few Conservation areas
3.3.21 The „Nene Valley: Little Addington to Ringstead (7f)‟ Historic Landscape Character Area is described as: “The area is located on the northern and southern sides of the Nene valley, at the northwest of Raunds. The slopes of the valley side display a variety of geologies principally comprising bands of limestone and clay. Tributary streams cut through the area draining down into the Nene. With the exception of some small areas around the deserted medieval villages of West and Mallows Cotton, the area prior to 20th century agricultural improvements was one of
6 English Nature (Sept 1997), West Anglian Plain Natural Area Profile 7 Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Historic Landscape Character Assessment
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Parliamentary enclosure. Raunds was enclosed at the turn of the 19th Century and Great Addington in 1804. Both little Addington and Ringstead were enclosed a generation later in the 1830s. The fieldscapes today generally comprise large straight-hedged fields connected by parliamentary roads. Many of the farmsteads out in the fields are contemporary with the original enclosure layout. Settlement is confined to the northwest bank of the Nene where the small villages of Great and Little Addington have expanded slightly out from their historic cores. The two principal upstanding monuments are the earthworks of the deserted medieval villages of Mallows Cotton and West Cotton. The latter of which was subject to extensive archaeological excavation during the 1980s. Apart from these there are few other upstanding earthworks in the area. Aside from the enclosure roads running between the villages, the modern A45 Nene Valley Way is the only other major routeway through the area. However, the line of the roman road between Lowick and Irchester is thought to run through the parishes of Great and Little Addington.” 3.3.22 The Historic Landscape Character Assessment works in conjunction with the Current Landscape Character Assessment and Biodiversity Character Assessment to form the Northamptonshire Environmental Character Assessment. This works alongside and informs Northamptonshire County‟s Green Infrastructure Guidance.
3.4 Landscape Characteristics 3.4.1 The Site is currently accessed from the existing entrance to Ringstead Grange Farm, located off Station Road, 500m to the north-northwest of the Site, at approximately 35mAOD. The entrance to the Site leads past Ringstead Grange Farm with a collection of two storey farm dwellings and outbuildings including enclosed and open barns, sheds and workshops. The farmstead is situated at approximately 40mAOD, around 320m to the north-northwest of the Site. Landform 3.4.2 The Site forms a relatively high point in the immediate landscape. The central and eastern areas of the Site have a high point of around 65mAOD, with the land gently falling away to the north, west and southwest. The northern, western and southern boundaries of the Site lie at around 55mAOD. 3.4.3 Beyond the Site boundary, the landform falls away to the north and west to the base of the River Nene Valley (around 600m north of the Site), which lies at around 35mAOD. To the west and northwest of the valley, the land gently rises to around 65 – 70mAOD near to the villages of Little Addington and Great Addington, with a slightly higher landform further northwest at 80 – 85mAOD. 3.4.4 In contrast to the valley landform, broadly to the west of the Site, to the east of the Site, the land is relatively flat with a slight incline up to around 80mAOD. To the south of the Site, the landform is again relatively flat, averaging around 75mAOD. Around 900m south of the Site, the landform drops to approximately 40mAOD before rising up quite quickly to 60mAOD. 3.4.5 The landform is primarily dictated by the presence of the River Nene and associated tributaries and drainage channels, with the lowest landforms experienced adjacent to
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watercourses, forming valleys and transitional slopes. These undulations occur in an otherwise relatively flat landscape. Land Use 3.4.6 The Site forms part of a larger farm estate. The Site is currently a mixture of (mainly arable and permanent pasture) agricultural fields. 3.4.7 Fields are mostly of medium to large scale and rectilinear, often bounded by hedgerows with occasional trees. The existing hedgerows are degraded in places. 3.4.8 The surrounding landscape is a mixture of (mainly arable and permanent pasture) agricultural fields. Fields are mostly medium to large scale between the Site and Ringstead village, to the north of Ringstead village, the fields are small and rectilinear. To the east and south of the Site, fields are large and rectangular, to the west of the Site around the village of Little Addington are larger and more open. 3.4.9 Fields are enclosed by (largely hawthorn) hedges with occasional hedgerow trees, some of the hedges are degraded and gappy, especially to fields which are edged by roadways. 3.4.10 There are two broadleaved woodlands situated on the wider farm estate situated on the northern and northeastern application boundary. Surrounding the Site, woodland is restricted to a number of copses and shelter belt type planting. 3.4.11 Woodland and tree planting blocks are discreet in nature, confined to a series of fragmented small areas, with additional tree cover found along hedgerows, watercourses and adjacent to water bodies. 3.4.12 The River Nene meanders from the north to the west (within approximately 580m of the Site at its closest point) connecting with Kinewell Lake and Stanwick Lake in the wider landscape. Along the River Nene, there is a series of large lakes and water bodies mainly created from previous gravel extraction operations. 3.4.13 The largest lake is Kinewell Lake (Local Nature Reserve) which is situated approximately 600m north of the Site. There are additional lakes to the northwest and southwest of the Site along the valley of the River Nene, as it flows southwest towards the Stanwick Lakes (SSSI); a group of lakes which are situated approximately 2km southwest of the Site. The various water bodies between Stanwick Lakes and Kinewell Lake also form the Upper Nene Gravel Pits SSSI, broadly west of the Site in the Nene Valley. The gravel pits and Stanwick Lakes also form part of the Nene Valley SPA and are also designated as a wetland of international importance under the RAMSAR Convention. 3.4.14 At Stanwick Lakes there is a visitor and outdoor activities centre which offers water sports and boat hire, bird watching opportunities, adventure trails and cycle hire to explore the extensive cycle routes found locally. In addition, south of Stanwick Lakes is a carp and trout angling facility (Stanwick Lakes Fishery) with six angling lakes situated approximately 3.4km southwest of the Site. 3.4.15 The River Nene is a navigational river with a series of locks, used for leisure activities. Blackthorne Marina is situated approximately 800m to the north-northwest of the Site and comprises of 60 moorings for cruisers and canal barges on a privately owned sheltered lake with good access to the River Nene and further on to the Northampton waterways and beyond.
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3.4.16 Within the landscape surrounding the Site, there a number of small brooks and watercourses with occasional ponds and drainage dykes which flow through the surrounding agricultural fields connecting with the River Nene. The nearest dyke is „Hog Dyke‟ which flows northwestwards from a sewage treatment works situated west of Raunds (approximately 900m south-southwest of the Site). Settlement and Infrastructure 3.4.17 The Site is not immediately adjacent to any settlement or current dwelling properties. The residence at Ringstead Grange Farm is around 500m north-northwest of the Site. Top Lodge is near to the western boundary of the Site accessed via a private road from Station Road to the north of the Site and is currently derelict. On Station Road is a private dwelling (Cotton Tree Farmhouse) situated around 475m north-northwest of the Site boundary at its closest point and a nearby property (previously a chapel) used by funeral directors (The Old Chapel). 3.4.18 There a number of settlements within the vicinity of the Site; the centre of Ringstead village is situated approximately 800m northeast of the Site at its closest point. The market town of Raunds lies around 530m south-southeast of the Site access point at its nearest point. The villages of Little Addington and Great Addington are around 1.5km from the Site, to the west and northwest of the Site respectively. 3.4.19 The centre of Stanwick village is 1.8km due south of the Site, with Irthlingborough lying 3.2km southwest of the Site at its nearest point. Denford village is 2.1km to the north- northeast, with Woodford village 2.6km to the northwest. Thrapston town is 3.6km to the north-northeast at its closest point to the Site. 3.4.20 The A45 main vehicular route through the area is situated close to the southern boundary, running broadly on a southwest to northeast alignment, connecting Thrapston and Irthlingborough. The route is often delineated by the presence of native hedgerows, tree planting and shelter belt woodland. Other vehicle routes are primarily local minor roads. The B663 leads south from the A45 to Raunds. To the north of this junction a local minor road runs north to Ringstead, passing the proposed Site access point. Station Road is 500m north of the Site at its closest point, on an east-northeast to west- southwest alignment leading from Ringstead. 3.4.21 The Woodford/Irthlingborough Road runs broadly on a north-northeast to south- southwest alignment between Woodford and Irthlingborough, around 1.3km west of the Site at its closest point. 3.4.22 Running on a broadly south-southwest to north-northeast alignment, through the landscape is a disused and dismantled railway line which forms part of the local public footpath and cycle route network affording access to Stanwick Lakes. The route of the disused rail line is around 430m west of the Site at its closest point. 3.4.23 Another disused and dismantled railway line runs on a broadly northwest to southeast alignment from Thrapston, around 2.5km east-northeast of the Site at its closest point. 3.4.24 Mallows Cottons is the site of an abandoned medieval village. These ruins are situated approximately 210m southwest of the Site boundary at its closest point. Mallows Cotton medieval village ruins, part of which lies within the Ringstead Parish boundary, originated in the 12th century and was well established by 1274. Mallows Cotton is included on the National Heritage List for England as a monument of national importance.
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3.4.25 The A45 is the nearest major road, running along a northeast to southwest alignment between Thrapston and Irthlingborough. It is a main carriageway (non-dual carriageway), which is situated near to the southern boundary to the Site. The junction of the A14 and A6116 is 3.4km to the north of the Site. 3.4.26 There are no active railway lines within 5km of the Site. 3.4.27 There are three radio telecommunication masts situated to the southeast and south of the A45 road, approximately 0.3km from the Site‟s southern boundary. 3.4.28 There are also a number of electricity and telegraph overhead cables crossing the landscape, with associated pylons and poles. The nearest pylons to the Site are situated south of the A45 roadway within 0.25 km of the Site. 3.4.29 To the southeast, within 0.5km of the Site, there is a series of large modern industrial units. These units are accessed from the B663 on the northwestern outskirts of Raunds, situated at the Warth Park industrial/commercial area. 3.4.30 To the west of the Site is a further industrial estate situated off Irthlingborough Road, south of Little Addington, which is approximately 1.7km west-southwest of the Site boundary at its nearest point. 3.4.31 A sewage works is situated within 860m south-southwest of the Site boundary at its nearest point, with a further sewage works to the northeast of Little Addington, around 1.1km from the Site. 3.4.32 Blackthorne Lake marina is situated approximately 800m northwest of the Site boundary which is also accessed from Station Road. The site comprises of up to 60 overnight and medium term length moorings for cruising boats and narrow boats. 3.4.33 A number of wind turbines at Burton Wold Wind Farm, near Burton Latimer, are situated around 5.2km west-northwest of the Site at their closest point. 3.4.34 No caravan or camping sites were located within a 5km radius of the Site. Permitted Future Developments 3.4.35 There are two major developments that have recently been received planning permission, but have not been built yet. The areas of Warth Park Phase 2 and West End Raunds, are shown on Figure L2. 3.4.36 Warth Park Phase 2 is an 80 acre extension to the west of the Warth Park estate, immediately south of the A45, situated on greenfield land. The development to the north of the existing commercial / industrial buildings at Warth Park, known as Zones 1 and 2 (covering a 10 acre area), are available for leisure developments such as restaurants, hotels, health and fitness facilities as well as small scale industrial/commercial units. 3.4.37 These will be immediately adjacent to the A45, on the junction with the B663. Zone 3 which is immediately west of the existing commercial/industrial buildings, will cover a 70 acre area comprising three plots planned to accommodate buildings from 150,000 sq. ft. to 350,000 sq. ft. The masterplan for the development shows the northwestern extent and western part of the site primarily consisting of tree planting, green space and a large water body.
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3.4.38 The West End development, immediately north of Raunds, will be around 0.3km southeast the proposed access to Ringstead Quarry, with the A45 lying between. The development has outline planning permission. The masterplan for the development shows that the northern third of the development area consists of medium sized commercial and industrial buildings, with the southern parts of the development being primarily residential in nature. Tree planting is proposed adjacent to the A45, with the development also appearing to incorporate some large water bodies / wetland areas. Public Rights of Way and Permitted Access 3.4.39 Public Rights of Way near the Site are indicated on Figure L1. There is access across part of the Site along public footpath (Definitive Map no. NR3) along a north-northeastern to south-southwestern alignment. This footpath links with Public Bridleway (Definitive Map public bridleway no. NR7) which runs from Station Road, to the northwest of the Site, on a southeast-northwest alignment adjacent to the western boundary of the Site, before linking with public bridleway UG40 and subsequently other public rights of way in the wider landscape accessing the village of Raunds and the Nene Valley. 3.4.40 A public footpath, Definitive Map public footpath no.UG39, runs broadly westwards from Raunds town, through Warth Park, before heading broadly southwestwards links up with public bridleway UG40, around 530m southwest of the Site on the northern side of the A45. Public footpath UG39 is around 250m southeast of the Site at its nearest point. 3.4.41 Public bridleway (Definitive Map public bridleway no. UG29) lies on a northwest to southeast alignment from within the Nene Valley, passing to the west of Mallows Cotton medieval ruins. Upon reaching the A45, the bridleway splits in to two bridleways. UG29 leading southwards, adjacent to the A45 and bridleway UG38, leading eastwards towards Raunds. Bridleway UG38 is around 500m south of the Site at its nearest point. 3.4.42 The wider landscape consists of a number of interconnected Public Rights of Way linking Ringstead, Raunds and the smaller villages of Great Addington and Little Addington, primarily through the Nene Valley and surrounding agricultural land, as well as providing public access to Stanwick Lakes and Kinewell Lake (pocket park). 3.4.43 The Nene Way is a recreational footpath route promoted by Northamptonshire County Council along the route of the River Nene through Northamptonshire and is approximately 90km in overall length. The „Irthlingborough to Barnwell‟ section (Leaflet #4) is the longest section at 29km, running part of the way along Station Road, around 560m for the Site boundary at its closest point. The recreation route also follows the line of other public rights way near to the Site including:
Public footpath (Definitive map footpath PE10) is situated around 1.1km north of the Site boundary at its nearest point;
Public bridleway (Definitive map public bridleway NR6) is situated around 685m northwest of the Site boundary at its nearest point;
Public footpath (Definitive map public footpath MB3) is situated around 1 km northwest of the Site boundary at its nearest point; and
Public footpath (Definitive map public footpath MB1) is situated around 1.5km southwest of the Site boundary at its nearest point.
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3.4.44 Within the River Nene Valley, there are two locally promoted walks (promoted by Ringstead Parish Council). The Kinewell Local Nature Reserve Walk is a circular walk around Kinewell Lake, around 530m north of the Site boundary. Northamptonshire County Council also recognises that there is a “pleasant” 1.5 mile long walk around Kinewell Lake Pocket Park. A longer locally promoted route is the Ham Lane and Old Railway Walk, which in part follows the western end of Station Road, around 550m north of the Site at its closest point. A village green (The Recreation Ground) is shown as being present on Station Road, near Kinewell Lake on www.magic.gov.uk. 3.4.45 Ringstead Parish Council locally promotes a third walk called the Mallows Cotton Walk. This walk passes directly adjacent to the western boundary of the Site, passing along bridleway NR7. 3.4.46 No cycle routes pass through the Site. Sustrans Regional Route 71 is a regional cycle route signposted along country lanes between Oundle and Thrapston, from where a section of new railway path continues to Irthlingborough. Sustrans Regional Route 71 passes within 0.5km to the west of the Site boundary at its nearest point. 3.4.47 Other cycle routes in the vicinity of the Site are promoted including:
Woodford to Sudborough Loop Cycle Route which passes along Station Road to the north of the Site and within 0.4km of the northern Site boundary at its nearest point;
Raunds via Eyebrook Loop Cycle Route which passes directly past the proposed entrance to the Site along the Ringstead to Raunds road and also passes along Station Road to the north of the Site, within 0.4km of the northern Site boundary at its nearest point; and
Thrapston Circular Route which passes within 4.3km of the Site to the northeast near to Thrapston village.
3.5 Historical Land-use and Cover 3.5.1 The Site is wholly within the „Large Modern Fields‟ County Landscape Character Type. The Site owes its current form to agricultural intensification during the 20th Century, leading to the current larger field sizes and weaker hedgerow structure than that of areas over 500m to the east of the Site, that have an agricultural landscape more in keeping with Parliamentary Enclosure. 3.5.2 Historic maps show that the Site has been in agriculture at least since the late 19th Century. The field pattern has not changed significantly in the last century. 3.5.3 In 1945 the Site was been utilised as arable and pasture agricultural fields in a similar field pattern delineated with hedges and occasional hedgerow trees (Google Earth 2012). Within the surrounding landscape, tree and woodland planting is quite minimal with occasional shelterbelts north of Ringstead and between Raunds and Stanwick to the south of the Site. 3.5.4 In the post war era the existing field structure of rectangular fields of medium to large scale delineated with hedgerow has remained intact. Outside of the Site Boundary, the development of mineral extraction along the River Nene with consequent wetland restoration has taken place since the year 2000.
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3.5.5 Since the 1960‟s the urbanised outskirts of Raunds have expanded with house building and infilling developments, with the development of the industrial estate south of the Site Boundary from the year 2000 onwards. 3.5.6 The adjacent Kinewell Lake was restored after previous quarrying for gravel extraction and has been restored since 1979. The landscape along the Mid-Nene Valley has been shaped by such gravel extraction with the restoration of many former sites (e.g. Kinewell Lake). 3.5.7 The Site does not lie within a Conservation Area and there are no Listed Buildings or Scheduled Ancient Monuments within the Site. There are a number of Scheduled Monuments within 4km of the Site; See Figure L2.
3.6 Landscape Quality 3.6.1 The Site has a number of existing characteristic landscape elements that are both in a reasonably functional and visual condition. The Site primarily consists of medium to large sized arable and pastoral agricultural fields which are generally delineated by native hedges with occasional broadleaf trees. The quality of individual hedgerow elements is variable, with a mix of mature species-rich hedgerows and those recently planted, establishing hedgerows and more degraded elements, with obvious gaps. Whilst the individual hedgerow elements offer connectivity across the Site, this connectivity is fragmented by the weaker, degraded elements and those hedgerows still establishing, especially around the Site boundary, limiting opportunities for habitat cross-interaction. 3.6.2 There are very few semi-natural habitats within the Site boundary, due to the heavy influence of agriculture. There is no woodland cover within the Site boundary. The Site has a gentle undulation typical of the Northamptonshire Vale landscape character area. The Site is typical of the Large Modern Fields historic landscape character type, with large fields and variable hedgerow delineation, in comparison to the wider landscape area. The Site is visually in keeping with the prevalent landscape character of the surrounding area. 3.6.3 The agricultural land quality (agricultural land classification) of the Site is generally classified as Grade 3a, with individual Grade 3b areas located throughout the Site. Some isolated Grade 2 areas are located in the northeastern and southwestern parts of the Site. 3.6.4 The landscape quality at the Site can be described as Ordinary overall. 3.6.5 The wider landscape consists of a number of characteristic landscape elements that appear in both a strong functional and visual condition. There is uniformity across the landscape of arable and pastoral agricultural fields of medium to large scale fields creating an open landscape. Views are semi-enclosed by native hedges and occasional tree planting which delineate the agricultural fields. Woodland planting is not dominant in the wider landscape, often fragmented to individual stands or blocks trees. Other tree cover is present along hedgerows and watercourse and in conjunction with small woodland stands, gives the impression of a landscape where tree cover is more prevalent than is necessarily the case. A number of individual woodland elements lie in close proximity to the northern, western and southern boundaries of the Site
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3.6.6 The valley and its associated watercourses and water bodies are well tree-lined with a number of „wooded‟ elements. With a generally well established hedgerow delineated field system, there are good opportunities for cross-interaction between individual habitats. 3.6.7 There are a number of SSSI‟s and Local Nature Reserves (LNR) within 2 kilometres of the Site, including Stanwick Lakes and the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits (SSSI, SPA, RAMSAR) and Kinewell Lake LNR. Twywell Gullet SSSI is situated 4km northwest of the Site. 3.6.8 The settlement pattern in the wider landscape consists of a number of small to medium sized settlements dispersed through the landscape, with each settlement being recognisably separate and confined in terms of area. Individual farmsteads are frequent across the landscape. There is obvious development in the wider landscape, such as large commercial/industrial building at Warth Park, near Raunds, south of the Site and Burton Wold Wind Farm, Burton Latimer, to the far northwest of the Site, visible at distance. The A45 is also a major road passing through the landscape with a number of telegraph pylons crossing the landscape. These more incongruous elements disrupt the time-depth continuity in the landscape with limited development. In terms of landscape quality, the wider landscape can be described as Ordinary to Good overall.
3.7 Landscape Policies and Designations 3.7.1 The current policy framework for planning control is provided by the following development plan documents:
Northamptonshire Minerals and Waste Development Framework: Core Strategy (Adopted 20th May 2010);
The North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy (Adopted June 2008) – part of the developing North Northamptonshire Local Development Framework;
The East Northamptonshire Borough Local Plan (1996) – Saved Policies; and
Raunds Area Plan Preferred Options Document (unadopted)
3.7.2 East Northamptonshire Borough Council is currently reviewing its planning policies as part of its Local Development Framework and the formation of Local Development Documents. Most of the policies in the 1996 Adopted Local Plan have been superseded by the North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy and the recently adopted Rural North, Oundle and Thrapston Plan (adopted 18 July 2011), with only the saved policies remaining. 3.7.3 East Northamptonshire is in the process of developing the Four Towns Plan DPD, the area for which the Site falls within. The Four Towns Plan DPD is in its early stages of development and is not due to be adopted until 2014. Part of the plan will consist of work undertaken for the Raunds Area Plan Preferred Options Document. 3.7.4 The policies of the Minerals and Waste Local Plans of Northamptonshire have been superseded by the Northamptonshire Minerals and Waste Development Framework (MWDF).
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3.7.5 The Northamptonshire Structure Plan 1996 – 2016 was superseded by The East Midlands Regional Plan (Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS)), which was revoked on 6th July 2010. Where no emerging policies have been sufficiently developed to replace the Structure Plan and RSS, national policy has been used in deference. 3.7.6 In addition to the Development Plans above, the Northamptonshire Environmental Character Strategy and Green Infrastructure Strategy also provides landscape strategic policies and guidance for Northamptonshire. These have been developed based on the Northamptonshire Environmental Character Assessment comprising the Northamptonshire Current Landscape Assessment, Historic Landscape Character Assessment and Biodiversity Character Assessment. 3.7.7 Natural Area Profiles also provide additional objectives in relation to the key habitats present, alongside objectives and recommendations from National Landscape Character Assessments. 3.7.8 The Northamptonshire Biodiversity Partnership has also produced a number of species and habitat action plans (local Biodiversity Action Plans (or BAPs)) with targets for their conservation8. The Northamptonshire Minerals and Waste Development Framework 2010 3.7.9 The Minerals and Waste Development Framework (MWDF) portfolio contains a number of documents, the most relevant being:
Core Strategy Development Plan Document (DPD) (adopted May 2010);
Control and Management of Development DPD (adopted 30th June 2011);
Location for Minerals Development DPD (Adopted 17th March 2011); and
The Proposals Map.
3.7.10 There are no landscape designations cited in the Core Strategy DPD for the Site. The northeast part of the Site lies within a „Sand and Gravel Safeguarding Area‟. Relevant policies include:
Policy CS13 – Restoration and After-use of Minerals and Waste Developments; and
Policy CS14 – Addressing the Impact of Proposed Minerals and Waste Development.
3.7.11 There are also two relevant key objectives in the Core Strategy: Objective 10: Conserving and enhancing Northamptonshire’s built and natural environment - Recognise Northamptonshire’s environmental systems and landscape linkages in order to conserve and enhance the built and natural environment through ensuring sensitive working, and where necessary high standards of mitigation of potentially adverse impacts of minerals and waste development; and Objective 11: Responsible stewardship through restoration - Ensure an appropriate and beneficial after-use from mineral, and where appropriate waste development, through restoration that maximises enhancement opportunities, delivers a net gain in
8 Northamptonshire Biodiversity Partnership (2008) - Northamptonshire Biodiversity Action Plan 2nd Edition
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environmental capital, and fosters responsible stewardship. 3.7.12 The Control and Management of Development (CMD) DPD also sets out polices in relation to development expanding on those from the Core Strategy DPD. Relevant policies include:
Policy CMD4 – Development Criteria for Mineral Extraction;
Policy CMD7 – Natural Assets and Resources;
Policy CMD8 – Landscape Character;
Policy CMD9 – Historic Environment;
Policy CMD10 – Layout and Design Quality;
Policy CMD11 – Mineral Safeguarding Areas – Requirements for Non-Mineral Related Development;
Policy CMD12 – Preventing Land Use Conflict; and
Policy CMD13 – Restoration and After-use.
3.7.13 As with the Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy, the county MWDF cites the Northamptonshire Environmental Character Assessment and Green Infrastructure Strategy as the basis for the environmental and landscape response to development. 3.7.14 There is also the revised Development and Implementation Principles Supplementary Planning Document (adopted September 2011) that provides best guidance for Minerals and Waste development. 3.7.15 The Locations for Minerals Development DPD, shows that the Site is around the same size and covers a similar area to the Ringstead Allocated and Committed Site for Minerals-Related Development. The Site is largely covered by: Policy M2: Sites for the provision of crushed rock - A supply of crushed rock to contribute to meeting the provision of crushed rock (limestone) will be provided for by: production since 1 January 2006, sites with planning permission as at 1 January 2009, and by the following allocated sites… MA9: Ringstead 2.1 million tonnes (approximately) 3.7.16 The Inspector‟s Report in to the Site allocation, dated 19th December 2010, found that “the soundness of the Ringstead allocation has not been seriously undermined by the objections raised in the representations and it should not be removed from the DPD”. 3.7.17 From a landscape and environmental perspective, the inspector also found that “the Sustainability Appraisal (SA) assessed, amongst other matters, the landscape, environmental and heritage/archaeological implications of developing this site... Potential impacts were identified but none was seen to be so significant as to justify ruling out this site; design of the scheme together with appropriate mitigation was seen to be sufficient to allow a quarry to operate within acceptable environmental limits.”
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3.7.18 The Ringstead site allocation had been proposed for a number of years and would have been a material consideration in the granting of planning permission at Warth Park and the „West End‟ town extension north of Raunds (refer to Figure L2). North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy 3.7.19 The strategy does not cite any landscape designation for the area and Local Development Framework Documents are awaited for Kettering Borough. Relevant policies, in terms of landscape issues, from the core strategy include:
Policy 5 – Green Infrastructure; and
Policy 13 – General Sustainable Development Principles.
3.7.20 Policy 13 states that development should seek to protect assets and that it should “Conserve and enhance the landscape character, historic landscape designated built environmental assets and their settings, and biodiversity of the environment making reference to the Environmental Character Assessment and Green Infrastructure Strategy” 9 East Northamptonshire Borough Local Plan 3.7.21 Only the saved policies (specific to the Four Towns Area) remain active from the East Northamptonshire Borough Local Plan with the most relevant policies being:
EN8 - Protection of SSSI's, NNR's and LNR's; and
EN9 - Safeguarding sites of local conservation interest.
3.7.22 The Site is not designated within the Local Plan for any special landscape or ecological protection. The Site is not designated as Important Open Land under policy EN20. 3.7.23 There are no national or local nature conservation designations within the Site boundary, and no Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty within 4km of the Site boundary. There are a number of SSSI‟s and Local Nature Reserves (LNR) within 2 kilometres of the Site, including Stanwick Lakes and the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits (SSSI, SPA, RAMSAR) and Kinewell Lake LNR. Twywell Gullet SSSI is situated 4km northwest of the Site. 3.7.24 Until such time as the Local Plan is entirely superseded, relevant comment is also made in Appendix 8 of the plan: Guidelines for Landscaping in Development. 3.7.25 The Raunds Area Plan Preferred Options Document provides relevant comment on the vision and objectives for Raunds and other settlements within the plan area. The preferred options document does not infer any specific land allocation or policy designation on the Site. The document recognises the importance of the Green Infrastructure Network and the Nene Valley Strategic Green Corridor.
9 North Northamptonshire Joint Planning Unit (June 2008), North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy
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Northamptonshire Environmental Character and Green Infrastructure Suite 3.7.26 In Northamptonshire, the “Environmental Character and Green Infrastructure Suite was developed to …provide technical guidance for the environmental policies in the Core Spatial Strategies for North and West Northamptonshire.” 10 3.7.27 The Environmental Character Assessment combines the findings of the Current Landscape Character Assessment, Biodiversity Character Assessment and Historic Landscape Character Assessment. Key issues are identified for each character area and are intended to guide planning authorities and guide the Proposed Development. The Site falls within the Middle Nene (Northampton - Aldwincle) Environmental Character Area with relevant issues being summarised as: “Large tracts of the river valley landscape retain something of their historic, rural character. New development and land management should seek to protect areas that retain their rural, undeveloped character, and also enhance degraded urban fringes in order to create attractive and vibrant urban fringe landscapes. Around Wellingborough and Irthlingborough new development and land management should seek to create a sensitive transitional landscape between settlement and river. Enhance the nature conservation value of riverside farmland. Restoration of pasture to seasonally wet meadow should be encouraged and in particular within areas that link to existing areas of high biodiversity value; Although woodlands appear incongruous in the context of the floodplain, they do provide valuable habitats and a context for areas of open water, and in particular wet willow carr woodland when found in conjunction with reed beds and open water areas. Appropriate management of the wet woodlands should be encouraged and habitat increased to provide functioning linear habitat links. Hedgerow removal and the creation of modern fieldscapes are evident across much of the valley. Hedgerow planting to recreate parliamentary enclosures is not appropriate in these areas, and as such opportunities exist for the creation of new landscape character. Elsewhere, where the impact of modern development is less pronounced, enhancement of the field patterns through reinstatement and repair of hedgerows is more appropriate.” Northamptonshire Biodiversity Action Plan 3.7.28 This document11 provides the local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) priorities and targets for Northamptonshire, in terms of the conservation of priority habitats and species in the county. These are further developed in to Habitat and Species Action Plans based on areas or boroughs throughout the county. It also sets General Action Plans in terms of promoting biodiversity at a policy and strategic level. Priority Habitats in the area of the Site are:
Eutrophic standing waters;
Floodplain grazing marsh;
10 Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Environmental Character and Green Infrastructure Suite – Policy and Context 11 Northamptonshire Biodiversity Partnership (2008) - Northamptonshire Biodiversity Action Plan 2nd Edition
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Hedgerows;
Lowland Calcareous Grassland;
Lowland Fens;
Lowland Meadows;
Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland;
Ponds;
Reedbeds;
Rivers;
Traditional orchards;
Wet Woodland; and
Wood Pasture and Parkland.
National Character Area Recommendations 3.7.29 Recommendations are given in the National Countryside Character Assessment document12 to „shape the future‟ of this area and can be summarised by:
The Nene Valley offers scope to address a full range of broad environmental matters, including the conflict between gravel extraction, development, wildlife conservation and recreation;
There are many opportunities for the improved management of restored sand and gravel workings and for future restoration to take account of current best practice for nature conservation and the landscape (including characteristic elements and features);
Large scale nature of recent developments should be addressed through equally large-scale landscaping measures;
Many villages would benefit from local design initiatives to ensure that the future change is appropriate to local character;
The loss of hedgerow trees and ageing present stock indicate the need for substantial new planting; and
The establishment of „pocket parks‟, many associated with former gravel extraction sites in the Nene Valley, have been established in Northamptonshire in partial compensation for lack of accessible common land.
12 Countryside Agency (1999), Countryside Character - Volume 4: East Midlands
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Natural Area Profile Key Objectives 3.7.30 In this document, the relevant key objectives listed against the West Anglian Plain Natural Area include:
The sustainable management of characteristic wildlife habitats and species in order to maintain the character of the Natural Area;
The restoration of characteristic wildlife habitats and species where these have been lost, in order to enhance the essential character of the Natural Area; and
The consolidation of rare species populations to a point where they are felt to be sustainable, with re-establishment of extinct species where suitable habitat exists and the reasons for original loss have been understood and overcome; and
The maintenance of the diversity of geological and geomorphological interest found within the Natural Area.
3.8 Landscape Value 3.8.1 The Site has no statutory or local landscape designations or Tree Preservation Orders attached to the land. There are no areas of ancient woodland or veteran trees within the Site. 3.8.2 The habitats within the Site are not highly valued beyond a local scale and are easily replicated or improved. 3.8.3 The three SSSI‟s lie over 500m northeast of the Site in the River Nene valley, with Kinewell Lake Pocket Park and Local Nature Reserve lying over 500m north of the Site in the River Nene valley. Stanwick Lakes Country Park is over 300m to the southwest of the Site, in the Nene Valley, promoted regionally for recreation and nature conservation activities. 3.8.4 A number of Public Rights of Way run relative to the Site; including, permissive access to the Site along public footpath (Definitive Map public footpath no. NR3). Public bridleway (Definitive Map public bridleway no. NR7) passes along the western Site boundary, and public footpath (Definitive Map public footpath no. UG38) passes within 0.2km south of the Site boundary at its nearest point. 3.8.5 The Nene Way Long Distance Path runs for approximately 90km in proximity to the River Nene Valley. The route is promoted by Northamptonshire County Council (supported by the Countryside Commission), lying over 500m north of the Site along Station Road, at its closest point. . 3.8.6 No nationally promoted cycle routes pass through or adjacent to the Site, with Sustrans Regional Route 71 passing the Site around 0.4km west of the Site boundary at its nearest point. The more locally promoted cycle route of the Raunds via Eyebrook Loop Cycle Route passes adjacent to the proposed Site access point along the local minor road, between Raunds and Ringstead. The Woodford to Sudborough Loop Cycle Route is around 500m north of the Site at its closest point, running along Station Road. 3.8.7 There are no ancient monuments or other features protected for their historical or cultural heritage at the Site. The cultural heritage value at the Site has been adversely affected
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by historic mineral working and by current and past agricultural operations (including 20th Century intensification) and is not considered highly valued. 3.8.8 The landscape elements within the Site are fairly common and not highly valued beyond the local to county level. The scope to mitigate the lost landscape elements through restoration is very good. The landscape value of the Site, in this overall context can be described as being of a Low level.
3.9 Visual Baseline 3.9.1 The central and eastern areas of the Site, form the visual edge of the high point, with gentle slopes falling away to the south, west and north of the Site and with flatter land primarily to the east. The visibility of the land at the Site is primarily limited by the landform, where in close proximity; the whole Site is not visible in its entirety from any one location. The visibility of the Site is further limited by hedgerows and a number of woodland components at the periphery of the Site. Views from further afield are also limited by a series of hedgerows, woodlands and other vegetative components 3.9.2 The theoretical ZVI, with source levels taken to be the existing ground levels at three points within the Site, has been illustrated separately on Figure L3. This assumes that woodland shown on the OS map form visual barriers 10m high, that large buildings form visual barriers 6m high and that the visual receptor is 1.7m above ground level (using a combination of NextMap 5m contour data for the immediate site area and OS Panorama data for the digital terrain model). This does not illustrate the actual visibility of the Site, as localised elements in the landscape can prevent views from being obtained and location close to the viewpoint (in particular) are more likely to have views of parts of the Proposed Development which are potentially visible from specific locations (e.g. of screening bunds).It does, however, give a general impression of where the Site is most likely to be visible from. 3.9.3 Views from the south towards the Site are largely restricted to the central higher areas and southern areas of the Site, with the northern parts of the Site falling away and being at a lower level and so are generally not visible from the south. Views are also limited by woodland on the southernmost part of the boundary of the Site, along part of the A45, by hedgerows on the periphery of the Site and along the A45. 3.9.4 Views are not achieved around 1km south of the Site due to levels falling to around 15- 20m below the existing Site levels. The land rises again to provide potential long-range views from further south, near Stanwick, with such views severely limited by a interlying landscape elements including trees and woodland. Views from the south and southeast, near to the Site, also take in distant views of the Burton Wold Wind Farm to the northwest. 3.9.5 Views from the southeast, such as from the northern edge of Raunds, are severely limited by the presence of large industrial/commercial buildings at Warth Park. Any potential views are filtered by interlying vegetation and limited to central and southern higher parts of the Site. Warth Park Phase 2 may further restrict views and may provide opportunities for views to be gained (e.g. from upper floor windows that face towards the Site) although no details are yet available for this development. The development approved for West End at Raunds is not likely to obtain any views of the Proposed Development.
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3.9.6 Views of the Site from the immediate north are limited, to very close range views, by the existing landform. As land falls away from the Site to the north, in to the River Nene Valley (where the land lies at around 35mAOD). Views from within these lower levels are generally not available due to the low lying land at potential viewpoints and hedgerows present at the edge of the Site. This is the case for locations along Station Road and the Ringsted Parish Council promoted walks around Kinewell Lake and the Ham Lane and Old Railway Walk. No views are likely to be gained from Ringstead village. To the north of Ringstead the land rises and views would be theoretically possible; having checked publicly accessible locations within this area, views were found to be extremely restricted.
3.9.7 Views of the Site from the east are restricted to specific close to medium-range views from along the Raunds to Ringstead local minor road and a small number of specific locations along the A45 as it leads northeastwards away from the vicinity of the Site. Views are further limited by interlying hedgerows and primarily restricted to the higher levels of the Site, with northern, western and southern areas falling away from the central and eastern parts of the Site. Views from further afield to the east are severely limited by the interlying, relatively flat landform, cuttings associated with the A45 and various vegetative landscape elements. 3.9.8 Views from within the River Nene Valley to the west of the Site, generally will not take in any views of the Site, due to the relatively low-lying nature of the land. 3.9.9 Generally, many close and mid-range views are not obtainable due to the potential viewpoints being lower or at the same levels as the Site, with no significantly higher potential viewpoint locations providing opportunity for views down in to the Site. 3.9.10 The ZVI shows that the most potential for views of the Site will be from slightly higher land to the west and northwest of the Site (on the western side of the Nene Valley) from long-range locations. In the field it was found that there are numerous interlying landscape elements that severely limit the potential viewpoints in this part of the theoretical ZVI and much of the land covered by the ZVI in this area is inaccessible. 3.9.11 Views towards the Site from Little Addington and Great Addington are generally severely restricted to westernmost locations.
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4 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
4.1 Assumptions 4.1.1 The assessment is made against a baseline situation that the „do nothing scenario‟ would effectively result in no change to the existing landscape. 4.1.2 It is assumed that the areas of woodland close to the Site will not be felled during the life of the Proposed Development and nearby hedgerows will be retained (unless otherwise managed as part of the Proposed Development). 4.1.3 It is also assumed that Warth Park Phase 2 and the sustainable town extension north of Raunds („West End‟) will be constructed during the lifetime of these proposals. The extraction operations are anticipated to last up to 14 years (a Long-term duration) with progressive landfilling with inert waste and restoration also lasting up to 14 years, but starting and finishing circa 3 years after extraction starts and finishes, with a subsequent aftercare thereafter.
4.2 Predicted Sources of Impact 4.2.1 The potential sources of impact include those outlined in the table below:
Table 11 Predicted Sources of Impact
Source of Impact Visual Landscape
Change of land cover and landscape elements
Excavation and engineering of quarry phases
Quarry and infilling/restoration operations and vehicle movements
Temporary landform changes during landfill operations and from screening features e.g. temporary soil mounds stored on undisturbed land or restored land.
Permanent landform changes upon restoration
Installation of temporary operational buildings (e.g. site offices, weighbridge, etc.) and access tracks within the existing Site
Effects of lighting
Effects of new junction and access road
4.3 Mitigation Measures Alternatives Considered and Incorporated Mitigation 4.3.1 The Proposed Development is located on land allocated for the extraction of mineral in accordance with the Northamptonshire Minerals and Waste development Framework. As such, mineral extraction is deemed an appropriate development in this landscape at the Site. It is also universally agreed that mineral can only be extracted where it is found. 4.3.2 The Proposed Development allows for the use, retention and management of important screening features, such as hedgerows, and with extraction operations progressing below existing ground levels over a gently undulating landscape, the existing topography does not allow for extensive views in to the Site, such that adverse visual effects are generally restricted.
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4.3.3 The Phased operation of the Site and progressive restoration has been devised to help minimise land-take for quarrying/infilling activity and promotes early establishment of characteristic landscape features and habitats. 4.3.4 Where additional (secondary) visual screening is required beyond that already incorporated into the operational development scheme, an assessment of alternatives has been undertaken to help ensure that adverse effects of the screening options available are minimised whilst achieving the required level of screening. 4.3.5 The main screening options considered were temporary soil mounds, hedgerows and woodland planting belts and management of existing vegetation to promote improved screening. This has been undertaken on the basis of trying to retain or promote desirable visual character at a viewpoint (e.g. openness, or long-range views into the distance). 4.3.6 Screening mounds have an instant screening effect, but their height generally needs to be limited to prevent these features from creating adverse visual impacts in their own right. Woodlands take time to become effective and can screen views from higher viewpoints, but can limit desirable long-range views once the trees grow beyond the necessary height. Professional judgement has been applied to determine the most appropriate mitigation technique. 4.3.7 Hedgerows and woodland features will be planted using native species to mimic local hedgerow and woodland characteristics, providing positive landscape and ecological effects. Further evidence in respect of alternatives is fully explored within the planning application. Mitigation measures, used to limit the identified adverse impacts are summarised in Table 12 , with reference to the visual or landscape basis, or both:
Table 12 Mitigation Measures Incorporated into the Proposals
Mitigation Visual Landscape
Early planting of woodland and hedgerows adjacent to key boundaries to help screen views.
Retention, gapping up and enhancement of existing hedgerows on key boundaries to help screen views, with hedgerows allowed to grow up to and managed to 3m height.
Creation of an Initial Landscaping Zone with a raised landform, at the start of the development Proposed Development to provide landscape and ecological enhancement at an early stage and to help screen the development from the west and northwest.
Limit the duration and extent of the Proposed Development as much as possible (e.g. limiting the duration of operations to a phase by phase basis).
Use the existing landform to screen as much of the Proposed Development as possible.
Utilise retained woodlands to limit visibility of the Proposed Development.
Retain key hedgerows within the Site for as long as possible, in order to act as screening and to retain characteristic landscape elements for as long as possible.
Minimise heights of soil storage mounds and, where visible, grade to reduce slope angles and sharp changes in direction, where possible, ensuring the mounds are not dominant over existing landform features (e.g. in overall height). Soil mounds to be grassed in first available season upon creation.
Locate mineral and other stockpiled material at the base of each extraction phase, limiting the height, such that the material is not visible from outside of the Site.
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Table 12 cont‟d…
Mitigation Visual Landscape
Ensure that working of the Site is coupled to progressive restoration to limit land take and to allow early establishment of restoration features (undertaking woodland screening, habitat mitigation in advance where possible)
Ensure that night-lighting is as low as possible and is directed downwards and generally away from potential visual receptors
Re-use stockpiled soil forming materials, removed during extraction, in the restoration of surface levels, such that soils from Grade 2 and Grade 3a are restored in the main agricultural field areas in order to retain the best and most versatile land.
Incorporate biodiversity improvements into the restoration scheme to provide landscape benefit and habitat corridors across the area
4.3.8 The restoration landform has been designed to comply with current guidance on slopes for mineral and landfill restoration, to integrate effectively with the surrounding topography and to complement the landscape character of the adjacent and surrounding landscape. It has also been devised to ensure that there are no restrictions to the intended land use and that the potential to restore agricultural land is not compromised by slope gradient or poor soil handling. 4.3.9 The restoration features on the Concept Restoration Masterplan (R15/04) have been devised primarily using the information provided in the character assessments for the area, the Development Plan, the Biodiversity Action Plan and the findings of the ecology assessments undertaken at the Site to ensure that the landscape features provide (where possible) positive ecological and landscape benefits.
4.4 Landscape Impact Assessment Assessment of Effects on Landscape Elements 4.4.1 The new affected areas within the Site do not contain sensitive land cover elements, consisting of agricultural fields, delineated by hedgerows of various age and quality.. Vegetation across the Site is a mix of arable and grassland. These elements are not sensitive in the context of the surrounding landscape, are readily replicable and there is much scope for potential improvements from a landscape and ecological perspective. 4.4.2 The landscape value of the Site has been described as being of a Low level. The landscape quality of the Site has been described as being Ordinary. The landscape sensitivity is „Low‟. 4.4.3 The extraction operations will result in the loss of the fields and hedgerows within the Site boundary, with peripheral features along the boundary of the Site retained and improved. The landscape elements to be lost during operations, will be progressively worked such that they are lost is a series of Short-term phases over a Long-term duration (overall). The extraction operations will temporarily change the landform, creating a series of voids (over time) with markedly steeper slopes than the prevalent landform, , before returning it to a similar form to that present now.
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4.4.4 Upon the completion of each extraction phase, the landform will be progressively restored in a series of Short-term phases, with characteristic landscape elements incorporated at the earliest opportunities. Levels in the northwestern part of the Site (the Initial Landscaping Zone) will be higher than exiting in the northwestern corner of the Site to enhance screening potential and will be restored to calcareous grassland in the early stages of the Proposed Development. Upon completion of extraction operations in close proximity to the Initial Landscaping Zone, the landform will progressively be restored such that the final landform upon restoration will be up to 8m above existing levels, with increased slope gradients in the northwest area of the Site. The remainder of the Site will be restored to levels and slopes of similar character to the existing situation. 4.4.5 The final resultant landform will remain for a Very Long-term duration. The interim landform (during the operational stages) can be considered to have an adverse effect and the final restoration landform can be considered to be neutral in effect. 4.4.6 The progressive extraction and infilling (restoration) activities will create an adverse effect, in stages, due to the removal of a number of characteristic elements (primarily agricultural fields and hedgerows) and replacement with quarrying operations (void spaces) and landfilling through the use of imported materials and stockpiled materials, with subsequent restoration features, over a Long-term duration overall. The progressive nature of the working, infilling and restoration of the phases limits the adverse effects in terms of duration and land-take. 4.4.7 Operations at the Site will also result in a number of smaller scale uncharacteristic elements in the landscape such as soil storage mounds and site infrastructure. 4.4.8 The scope to mitigate for lost landscape elements and improve the situation through progressive restoration is very good. The restoration scheme will restore and improve a number of desirable characteristic habitats and features at the Site and, over time, with targeted management, will provide nature conservation and visual improvements. 4.4.9 The magnitude of adverse effects on landscape elements during the operational period is Medium. 4.4.10 The magnitude of beneficial effects on landscape elements brought by the Very Long term duration effects of the restoration scheme (introducing new characteristic elements) is Small - Medium. 4.4.11 The significance of adverse effects from the proposed operational development is Minor - Moderate. The significance of beneficial effects from the proposed restoration over the existing situation is also Minor- Moderate, through the addition of a number desirable landscape and ecologically beneficial elements, improving structure and connectivity across the Site. Assessment of Effects on Landscape Character 4.4.12 The landscape character in the immediate area is primarily agricultural in nature. The experienced effect of the Site on the landscape character is severely limited by the restricted visibility of the Site and Proposed Development, and thus exerts an effect on a limited area of the landscape character area only.
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4.4.13 The character across the wider area is influenced by a number of other man-made elements including the A45 major road, telegraph cables and the large modern industrial/commercial buildings present to the northwest of Raunds, which is in contrast to the more tranquil gently undulating agricultural landscape that lies between these areas. This will be further adversely affected upon construction of Warth Park Phase 2 and the sustainable town extension to the north of Raunds. The area could generally be said to be dynamic in terms of changes made over the last few decades and is continuing to change. 4.4.14 The sensitivity of the Landscape Character to the Proposed Development in this context is Low - Medium. In relation to landscape character, the adverse landscape effects during the operational period are, overall, typically of Medium magnitude, occurring for a Long-term duration whereby a number of detracting characteristics will be added during this time, with progressive restoration of characteristic landscape elements helping to minimise the duration of adverse effects on the landscape character. Beneficial effects (over a very long-term duration) are of Small - Medium magnitude, providing environmental enhancement consistent with the characteristics and objectives of the character area. 4.4.15 The capacity of the landscape is sufficient to accept the Proposed Development without incurring significant effects on landscape character during the operational period, due to the phased nature of the Proposed Development, leading to a progressively restored Site, with the operational period not lasting beyond the Long term duration. 4.4.16 The adverse effects on the prevalent landscape character during the operational period are of Minor - Moderate significance. The Very-Long term beneficial effects on landscape character upon restoration will also be of Minor - Moderate significance. Cumulative Landscape Effects 4.4.17 There are no known similar developments likely to be present close to the Site during the lifetime of the Proposed Development the and no cumulative effects of a similar nature are likely to occur. 4.4.18 A large industrial development (Warth Park Phase 2) will occur on the south side of the A45 and a sustainable town extension has been granted planning permission to the north of Raunds („West End‟). These developments will remove similar characteristic landscape elements, permanently, as opposed to the temporary nature of the Proposed Development. In the context of the wider landscape, the other nearby developments will lead to the addition of potentially uncharacteristic elements (large industrial/commercial buildings) to the landscape permanently. 4.4.19 With the Proposed Development being temporary in nature and the beneficial landscape effects lasting for a Very-long term duration upon restoration, this ensures that disruption to the landscape and the associated cumulative landscape impact is not significantly different to the stand-alone landscape impact, as ecological and landscape mitigation will occur during the operational period. The main difference, assuming other developments occur at the same time as the Proposed Development, will be a larger overall number of characteristic elements being removed over a Long-Term duration in the vicinity of Raunds, with progressive restoration across the Site, limiting the time over which characteristic landscape elements will be absent from the landscape of the Site.
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4.5 Visual Impact Assessment Introduction 4.5.1 The presentation of the assessment of visual effects has focused on representative principal viewpoints which represent sensitive locations with the potential to be affected to a significant level and the range of potentially sensitive views available across the area. A number of illustrative views have also been presented to demonstrate the visual effect from these locations. 4.5.2 Views from beyond approximately 1.5 kilometres distance of the Site boundary were generally found to be secondary to the effects on locations within this distance, or more readily represented as a worse case situation by alternative locations. 4.5.3 Nine principal representative and specific illustrative viewpoints have been selected to best represent the sensitive viewpoint locations and main effects within the ZVI and the situation observed during fieldwork and are illustrated using photographs in Figures L3 to L11. 4.5.4 The representative viewpoints are shown on Figure L2 and listed in Table 13 below:
Table 13 Principal Representative Viewpoints
Viewpoint Receptors Location Description Sensitivity No. Represented
1 A45, 121m east of the Site boundary Local road users Low
Local road users Low 2 Local minor road, 50m north of the Site boundary Local cycle route users Medium - High
3 Public bridleway NR7, adjacent to the Site boundary Bridleway users Medium - High
4 Public footpath NR3, on the Site boundary Footpath users Medium
Local road users Low
Warth Park Way (Warth Park Raunds), 590m east Residents (first floor) Medium 5 of the Site boundary Future hotel/restaurant High users
Public footpath UG39, near Scalley Farm, 275m Footpath users Medium 6 southeast of the Site boundary. Residents (first floor) Medium
Footpath users High Nene Way Long Distance Recreation Route, 1.6km 7 Local road users Low west-southwest of the Site Residents (first floor) Medium
Footpath users High Nene Way Long Distance Recreation Route, 1.3km 8 west-northwest of the Site Local road users Low
Footpath users Medium - High Public footpath PE13, 2.1km north-northwest of the 8 Site Local road users Low
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Note: All distances above are from the location of where the photograph was taken to the Site, not from the façade of the nearest dwelling house for example. Assessment from Viewpoint 1 4.5.5 Viewpoint 1 is from the A45, 121m east of the Site boundary, i.e. Close-range, (see Figure L4). The photograph represents glimpsed, transient views obtainable by local road users of the A45 main road. The visual sensitivity is Low for local road users. 4.5.6 The existing view takes in an existing road side verge and hedgerow (including a double- leafed field access gate and timber rail fencing) on the northern side of the A45. Further west from the viewpoint, the roadside verge becomes more wooded, with broadleaf woodland adjacent to the southern boundary. Beyond the hedgerow and woodland, the existing agricultural fields dominate the view, gently sloping up to the apparent horizon from the viewpoint, forming most of the skyline. A hedgerow, with individual trees, leads from the foreground on the left-hand side of the view, to the top of the slope and continues along the horizon line in the right-hand half of the view, with the hedgerows following forming their respective boundaries of the Site. The background in the left hand portion of the view also has some distant woodland with views of Burton Wold Wind Farm visible, well beyond the Site. 4.5.7 Views of the Site are currently transient and glimpsed over the existing hedgerows, primarily for southwest-bound users of the A45. The views are currently restricted to the southwestern parts of the Site, with central and northern areas of the Site not visible over the horizon. Views from the A45 adjacent to the southernmost boundary of the Site are obscured by existing woodland. 4.5.8 The initial operational phases of the development will be located in the northern half of the Site, and will not be visible from the viewpoint, as excavations will be behind the horizon. Advanced broadleaf woodland planting and the gapping up of the hedgerow along the boundary of the Site will progressively screen views in to the southwestern parts of the Site. 4.5.9 The only recognisable element of the operations visible in the initial phases of work will be the introduction of soil mounds inside the central southern boundary of the Site, with the top of the mounds just visible over the existing hedgerow which will be allowed to grow up to 3m high. The soil storage mounds will also be grassed and graded such that they can be actively farmed by the land owner, limiting visual impact. The soil mounds will be progressively added to and removed in accordance with the phasing of operations, with some temporary duration vehicle movements potentially visible above the hedgerow at sporadic times during the operational lifetime of the quarry associated with movement of soils. Only a very small proportion of the view will be taken up by a series of temporary duration activities over a Long term duration, with the mounds farmed in the intervening years between any related operations. 4.5.10 The advanced woodland planting in the southern area of the Site is anticipated to be around 7m high within 10 years of planting. By the time operations progress in to southwestern parts of the Site, or the slightly elevated landform is restored in the northwestern area of the Site, the advanced woodland planting will effectively screen such operations from view, with only very filtered, glimpsed views of near surface operations potentially achieved when the trees are not in leaf during winter.
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4.5.11 Overall, the various operational elements within the Site will only take up a very-small to small proportion of the view, with individual elements only visible for varying time periods within the overall Long Term duration of the development. Any views will only be glimpsed by local road users. 4.5.12 The magnitude of adverse visual impact is considered to be Very Small - Small, accounting for the varying time periods and seasonal (winter) periods operational elements may be visible. With the visual sensitivity of local road users considered to be Low, the significance of the adverse visual impacts is considered to be Negligible. 4.5.13 The mitigation measures employed along the boundaries in view (such as gapping up of hedgerows, allowing them to grow to 3m high and advanced woodland planting) will lead to characteristic landscape elements being improved and added to at an early stage of the development. The beneficial visual effects afforded upon restoration of the Site will be very limited due to the screening and mitigation measures undertaken. Overall, the magnitude of beneficial visual effects is considered to be Very Small last for a Very- Long Term duration, with the significance of the beneficial visual effects considered to be Negligible. Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 1 4.5.14 No other views mineral extraction sites will be visible from the viewpoint. 4.5.15 The development of Warth Park Phase 2 will be viewable in combination with the Proposed Development, primarily for southwest bound users of the A45, with successional views of the individual developments either side of the road. The construction period at Warth Park Phase 2 will likely be shorter than the overall operational period at the Site, albeit adding permanent built elements to the landscape as opposed to the temporary nature of the Proposed Development. 4.5.16 Views along the A45 will also sequentially take in the developments in Warth Park and the town extension north of Raunds („West End‟), as well as the Proposed Development, over a short distance. 4.5.17 With views of operations within the Site being largely filtered and glimpsed at worst, and being temporary in nature in comparison to the other developments, the cumulative adverse visual effects are not considered significantly higher than the individual effects and will only be of a Very Small magnitude of effect over and above the permitted situation at other nearby developments. Assessment from Viewpoint 2 4.5.18 Viewpoint 2 is on the local minor road between Raunds and Ringstead, around 45m north of the Site boundary, i.e. Close-range (see Figure L5). The viewpoint is taken from a gap in an otherwise 2-3 metre high hedgerow adjacent to the road, near to where the proposed Site access will be. The photograph is taken from a similar level to the existing highpoint of the Site, with a relatively flat field dominating the foreground. The mid- ground of the viewpoint consists of the existing hedgerow currently on Site, which is on a northwest-southeast alignment through the eastern area of the Site. The southern third of this hedgerow will also form the boundary of the Site. The hedgerow on the left-hand side of the view is a field boundary leading to the Site boundary on a northeast- southwest alignment and the hedgerow on the right-hand side of the view forms the northeastern boundary of the Site.
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4.5.19 The background of the view consists of the higher land, which forms the skyline, to the west and northwest of the River Nene Valley, at least 1km west of the Site. The background mostly consists of agricultural land and woodland components with the village of Little Addington visible in the central portion of the view. Distant views of the Burton Wold Wind Farm are also achieved on the higher ground northwest of Little Addington. Interlying land between the mid-ground and background of the photograph is all at a lower level in the River Nene Valley, with the western two thirds of the Site not visible. 4.5.20 Views from the road itself are not open, being heavily restricted by the roadside hedgerow. The photograph is representative of glimpsed, transient views for local road users and cyclists using the promoted Raunds via Eyebrook Circuit Cycle Route. The visual sensitivity of local road users is considered to be Low and the visual sensitivity of cycle route users is considered to be Medium - High. 4.5.21 At the earliest stage of development, an access road will be constructed diagonally across the field in the foreground of the view. This will be the main haul route in and out of the Site and as such regular vehicle movements will be observable through gaps in the hedgerow (and where the new Site access is proposed) for a Long term duration. The junction will also be subject to highway improvements, with the construction period anticipated to be temporary in nature. 4.5.22 Topsoil mound T1 will be stored, and grass seeded, on the eastern edge of the main development area where the access road enters the quarry. At around 3m high, the topsoil mound will effectively screen much of the site infrastructure, i.e. site offices, weighbridge etc., to be located on the northern side of the soil storage mound. Topsoil mound T3 and subsoil mound S1 will be stored adjacent to the central southern boundary of the Site, behind the existing retained hedgerow. The soil storage mounds will be present for a Long term duration. The topsoil storage mounds will be graded to have 1 in 8 slopes and will be actively farmed for as long as the soils are in store, such that the prevalent land cover will be in keeping with the existing landscape situation. 4.5.23 The combination of the retained hedgerows along the eastern boundary of the Site and the soil mounds will severely restrict views of the mineral operations. Due to the relatively flat nature of the interlying land between the viewpoint and the Site, with land falling away in the western parts of the Site, and that all excavation will be downwards below existing levels it is not anticipated that prolonged views of any mineral extraction or restoration processes will be obtained. 4.5.24 The progressive restoration of the northwestern part of the Site will raise levels to around 68mAOD, higher than the land in the foreground of the view. The very top of this landform may just be visible over the retained and restored hedgerows in the eastern half of the Site. The landform will not become visible until topsoil mounds T1 and subsoil mound S1 are removed, as such it will not be visible until the latter phase of development, beyond the Medium term. 4.5.25 The soil mounds will further obscure distant views towards Little Addington slightly, for a Long term duration. The skyline will be unaffected by operations at the Site.
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4.5.26 Overall, only specific, transient, glimpsed views obtained through gaps in the hedgerow, restricted primarily to the access road (and associated vehicle movements) and soil mounds, with views available for a Long term duration. The magnitude of adverse visual effect in considered to be Small. The significance of the adverse visual effects is considered to be Negligible for local road users, and Minor - Moderate for users of the promoted cycle route. 4.5.27 Upon restoration, the access road may be retained as a farm access track. Views into the Site will be limited by the retained and restored hedgerows on the boundaries of the Site and those delineating the new field boundaries within the Site. Restoration woodland in the eastern parts of the Site will form new characteristic landscape elements. Overall the magnitude of beneficial visual effects is considered to be Very Small to Small, and to be of Negligible significance. Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 2 4.5.28 No other views mineral extraction sites will be visible from the viewpoint. 4.5.29 Southbound local road users and cycle route users may achieve simultaneous combined views of Warth Park Phase 2 and the „West End‟ development north of Raunds, along with successive combined views of the Proposed Development, where views through adjacent hedgerows allow and due to the size of buildings associated with the other developments. The transient, glimpsed nature of the views obtained in to the Site mean views are likely to be secondary in nature to the addition of permanent large building to the landscape associated with the other two developments as permitted. With the Proposed Development being temporary, the adverse cumulative effects brought about by the operations at the Site are not considered significantly higher than the individual effects. Assessment from Viewpoint 3 4.5.30 Viewpoint 3 (Figure L6) is adjacent to the western boundary of the Site, along bridleway NR7 i.e. Close-range. The viewpoint is representative of specific, glimpsed views obtained by local public right of way users, through gaps in an otherwise 2-3m high hedgerow adjacent to the western boundary. The bridleway also forms part of the locally promoted Mallows Cotton Walk. The visual sensitivity of bridleway users is considered to be Medium - High. 4.5.31 The view takes in that of the existing agricultural field in the northwestern part of the Site, with hedgerows along the fields‟ eastern and southern boundary. The derelict Top Lodge is also visible in the right-hand portion of the view, with some nearby mature trees. 4.5.32 The field slopes gently upwards where the western boundary of the field forms the horizon with little visible beyond the hedgerows. For horse riders using the bridleway, their view will be slightly elevated and views over the top of the hedgerow may just be available. The hedgerow will be maintained to help minimise such opportunities for views into the Site. 4.5.33 In the earliest stages of operations, the northwestern part of the Site will be stripped of soils (with any remaining limestone mineral resource removed), with soils put in to store on the northwestern boundaries of the Site, in the form of topsoil mound T4 and subsoil mound S2. The initial stripping works and establishment of soil mounds will take several weeks, with the soil mound being formed up to 3m high effectively screening views in to
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the Site. The soil mounds will be in place for up to 12 months (a Temporary duration). 4.5.34 Beyond the subsoil mound S2, the land will be raised in accordance with the proposed restoration contours. These operations will generally not be visible, aside from elevated views for horse riders, who may have glimpsed views over the top of the subsoil storage mound of some elevated operations on the new landform. 4.5.35 The soils stored along the boundary will be reused to restore the new landform. In total the soil storage mound will be in place for a temporary term duration taking up a large proportion of the view. 4.5.36 Upon removal of the subsoil storage mound, views will take in the new raised landform in the foreground of the view, which will be 2-3m higher directly east of the viewpoint and around 5m higher northeast of the viewpoint. This will create a raised apparent skyline. For a Temporary duration period, the new landform will be bare earth, quickly being restored to calcareous grassland. The new landform will take up a large proportion of the view for a Very long term duration. 4.5.37 The extraction operations beyond the new landform, will not be visible, with only very glimpsed views of surface level extraction operations for horse riders over the top of the new landform. Any such views will also be further screened by the translocation of the hedgerow from the east of the field currently in view, to the top of the new landform. The translocated hedgerow, will run across the restored levels diagonally in front of the viewpoint from Top Lodge to the northern boundary, and will primarily form the new skyline. 4.5.38 Upon completion of extraction operations in Phases 12 and 13, further infilling will occur in order to achieve the proposed restoration landform for the Site. The very top of the new landform may be visible and break the new skyline, with only filtered views of near surface infilling / soil placement activities, through the translocated hedgerow. 4.5.39 North-bound users of the bridleway may achieve views in to the Site from south of Top Lodge, when looking northeast. To mitigate for this, a 2m high straw bale screen will be erected when extraction phases and restoration operations occur in the northwestern part of the Site. The screen will be in place for a Medium to Long term duration, until operations have ceased in the area. As the land falls away the further south along the bridleway users are, views over the top of the straw bale screen will not be achieved. Views of operational working from further north along the bridleway will be screened from view by the advanced woodland planting in the Initial Landscaping Zone. 4.5.40 Overall, the operational elements of the Proposed Development visible from the viewpoint will consist of the establishment and removal of a subsoil storage mound, taking up a large proportion of the view for a temporary time period and soil placement operations on the raised landform. Extraction operations will not be visible from the viewpoint. Operational elements in view, will consist of a number of Temporary to Short duration soil movement operations undertaken over a Medium term duration. The raised landform will take up a large proportion of the view, raising the skyline, with the land restored to calcareous grassland lasting for a Very long term duration. 4.5.41 The view is representative of a very specific viewpoint along the bridleway, where breaks in the hedgerow allow views in to the Site. The magnitude of adverse visual effects is considered to be Small, accounting for the fact views are only glimpsed or filtered
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through gaps in the existing boundary hedgerow and will only consist of the various soil movement operations, with the new landform being permanently restored to calcareous grassland within a short term duration from the beginning of operations at the Site. The significance of adverse visual effects is considered to be Minor - Moderate. 4.5.42 The viewpoint will take in views of a slightly steeper landform, restored to calcareous grassland during the earliest operational period at the Site, lasting a Very long term duration. This will form a dominant part of the view, restoring the Site to a characteristic open field with added floristic and nature conservation interest added by the calcareous grassland. The magnitude of beneficial visual effects is considered to be Small accounting for glimpsed, filtered views only obtained through gaps in the hedgerow. Views in to the Site will diminish over time with hedgerow development and management. The significance of beneficial visual effects is considered to be Minor. Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 3 4.5.43 No additional mineral extraction or development sites will be visible in combination with the Proposed Development from this viewpoint location. 4.5.44 Further south along the bridleway, sequential views may be achieved of the Warth Park Phase 2 development. Warth Park Phase 2 will introduce permanent large buildings in to the landscape, as opposed to the limited views obtained in to the Site, which will be a temporary characteristic. As such, the adverse cumulative visual effects are not considered to be significantly greater than individual adverse visual effects. Assessment from Viewpoint 4 4.5.45 Viewpoint 4 is from where footpath NR3 enters the Site, on the site boundary, i.e. Close- range, (see Figure L7). The view is of an agricultural field with the land rising gently away from the viewpoint. Footpath NR3 enters the Site through a gap in a 2-3m high hedgerow along the northern boundary of the Site. The view is representative of specific views obtained by local footpath users, considered to be of a Medium visual sensitivity. 4.5.46 The field in view is bounded on all side by hedgerows, with the hedgerows in the southwestern extent of the field disappearing from view behind the existing landform. The skyline is formed by a combination of the hedgerows and landform. There is gap in the hedgerow in the right-hand portion of the view which hedgerow NR3 passes through. 4.5.47 Footpath NR3 will be diverted on the outside of the northern boundary of the Site, so it joins with bridleway NR7 at the northwest corner of the Site. Adjacent to the diverted footpath along the northern boundary of the Site, a new hedgerow will be planted, with the hedgerow gapped up where footpath NR3 entered the Site. 4.5.48 From the viewpoint, the new hedgerow planting will establish at around 2-3m high, around 7 years after planting. In the Short term, the initial operational extraction phases will not be visible beyond the eastern edge of the field (the horizon), due to the interlying topography and retention of the hedgerow for as long as possible. 4.5.49 Initially, vehicle movements potentially across the horizon of the view, associated with the land raising operations in the Initial Landscaping Zone and the establishment and removal of the soil storage mounds along the northwestern boundaries, will be visible for a Temporary term duration. The physical works being undertaken in the landscaping zone will be predominantly screened from view by the hedgerow along the western
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boundary of the field. 4.5.50 Further along where the footpath has been diverted, a 2-3m high topsoil storage mound T4 will be established for a temporary term duration adjacent to the northern boundary of the Site. This will effectively screen views of land raising operations in the Initial Landscaping Zone. Upon the soil mounds removal, there will be a new slightly steeper landform present, restored to calcareous grassland within a Short term duration, with the continued establishment of advanced hedgerow planting along the northern boundary. 4.5.51 From the viewpoint, glimpsed oblique views of the temporary face of the raised landform, beyond the hedgerow on the right hand edge of the field, will be achieved for a Medium- term duration until such time as the gapped up hedgerow has established screening views. No subsequent operations will be due near to the Initial Landscaping Zone for a Medium term duration. 4.5.52 Within a Short term duration, the hedgerow on the eastern side of the field will have been removed and surface level extraction operations will become apparent on the horizon in the left hand portion of the view. Views of a narrow band of activity at surface level and subsequent slight reduction in height of the landform (prior to restoration of the landform) will be visible over the hedgerow species beginning to establish where the hedgerow along the northern boundary has been gapped up. Extraction operations below around 3m depth will not be visible. 4.5.53 Unfiltered views of the extraction and subsequent landfilling/restoration activities in the eastern parts of the Site will last for a Short to Medium term duration at most, confined to near surface operations, taking up a small proportion of the view, with the majority of the field in the foreground appearing undisturbed. 4.5.54 As extraction phases progressively approach the viewpoint, the hedgerow will have sufficiently developed to effectively screen operations from view, with only very filtered views obtained during winter and excavator operations visible over the tops of the hedgerow when excavation is in close proximity to the northern boundary of the Site. 4.5.55 No extraction or landfilling/restoration operations are expected to be visible from the viewpoint, beyond the Medium-term duration. No extraction phases in the southern half of the Site will be visible from the viewpoint. 4.5.56 Due to the close proximity of the footpath to the northern boundary and advanced hedgerow planting, views of landfilling and restoration activities will be screened from view where the restoration landform will be up to 8m above the existing landform. 4.5.57 Overall, operational activities, including traffic movements, will take up a small to medium proportion of the view, becoming progressively screened and lasting for a Medium term duration. The magnitude of adverse visual effects is considered to be Small-Medium, with the significance considered to be Minor. 4.5.58 Upon restoration of the northern half of the Site, footpath NR3 will be diverted back inside the Site boundary at the same point as where the footpath enters the Site now. NR3 will be diverted along the edge of the Initial Landscaping Zone, towards Top Lodge, or along the definitive route. 4.5.59 From the viewpoint, the view upon restoration will be of a large agricultural field / grassland, with small copses at junctions between hedgerows, with additional hedgerow
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trees. The raised restored landform in the right-hand half of the view forming the new skyline, at the centre of a large field. The view will take in restored and improved landscape elements such as the fields and hedgerows, with additional characteristic landscape elements such as copses also visible. The magnitude of beneficial visual effects upon restoration is considered to be Small to Medium, lasting for a Very-Long term duration. The significance of the beneficial visual effects is considered to be Minor to Moderate. Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 4 4.5.60 No additional sites will be visible in combination or sequentially past this viewpoint location. No adverse cumulative visual effects are anticipated from this location. Assessment from Viewpoint 5 4.5.61 Viewpoint 5 is from Warth Park Way, a local minor road leading in to Warth Park (a commercial / industrial business park). The viewpoint is around 590m east of the Site boundary, i.e. Medium-range views. The view is representative of transient views obtained by local road users. It also represents potential first floor views obtained from a couple of residences on the northwest edge of Raunds adjacent to the B663. 4.5.62 It is assumed that Warth Park Phase 2 will be constructed during the lifetime of the Proposed Development. The zones of the Warth Park Phase 2 development immediately adjacent to the viewpoint are available for hotel and restaurant use, with the viewpoint potentially representing views obtained by hotel users towards the Site. 4.5.63 The visual sensitivity of local road users is considered to be Low, with the visual sensitivity of local residents considered to be Medium. Potential views obtained by future hotel and restaurant users will be of a High visual sensitivity. Due to the presence of Warth Park and the A45, the visual amenity afforded from the viewpoint is not considered to be particularly high. 4.5.64 The foreground of the view takes in the existing pavement along Warth Park Way, the existing roadside verge and an open area of agricultural land. In the middle ground of the view there is a slight bank up to the A45, with some trees and hedgerow distributed along the top of the bank. The view also takes in the existing large commercial / industrial buildings at Wrath Park in the left-hand side of the view. The view beyond the A45 takes in agricultural fields and the associated hedgerows near to the southeast of the Site and the southwest area of the Proposed Development. The background of the view takes in the elevated land northwest of the River Nene Valley, which consists of a series of fields and woodland components, with Burton Wold Wind Farm visible in the central part of the view. 4.5.65 The interlying land is relatively flat, and in combination with existing interlying hedgerow and vegetative features, views of the extraction area in the northern part of the Site are not achieved. 4.5.66 The only extraction areas potentially visible from the viewpoint are in the southwestern area of the Site and due to the phasing of operations, will not be visible until the quarry has been in operation for a Long term duration. Advanced woodland planting along the southeastern boundary will progressively screen this area of the Site and in conjunction with other interlying vegetation, views of the extraction area will be predominantly screened, very filtered and limited to surface level extraction and restoration operations
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(i.e. the quarry pavement will not be visible), such that extraction and restoration operations will only take up a very-small to small proportion of the view for a Medium- term duration. 4.5.67 Views of the top of grassed (and farmed) soil storage mounds on the southern boundary of the Site may just be visible over the tops of hedgerows, but will only take up a Very- small proportion of the view for a Long term duration. Occasional vehicle movements will also be visible across the highest parts of the Site, associated with works to soil mounds or surface level operations in the latter phases of development (i.e. Phase 20 – 23). 4.5.68 The raising of the landform upon restoration in the northwestern part of the Site will be predominantly screened from view by the advanced woodland planting, with only very filtered views potentially achieved during winter. None of the operations will break the skyline, with all works set against the backdrop of the surrounding landscape. 4.5.69 For local road users the magnitude of adverse visual effect is considered to be Very Small. The significance of adverse visual impacts is considered to be Negligible. 4.5.70 First floor elevated views for local residents, will render the interlying screening features along the A45 and those incorporated along the Site boundary, slightly less effective at obscuring views. Filtered views, particularly during winter, over the top of interlying features may be achieved in to part of surface areas of the Site in the southwestern areas. Views will be limited to near surface level extraction and subsequent restoration activities. Views may also take in a slightly larger proportion of the soil mounds located near the southern boundary of the Site. Generally, extraction operations in the northern parts of the Site will not be visible due to the topography and interlying features. Any views will be restricted to very small areas of surface level operations. 4.5.71 Filtered views of the top of the restored landform in the northeast part of the Site may be achieved, with the visible operations associated with creating the new landform lasting a short-term duration, taking up a small proportion of the view. The landform upon completion of restoration will be progressively screened by new interlying woodland features within the restored Site. Views may also take in glimpsed views of regular vehicle movements along the Site access road and at high points on the Site. 4.5.72 The views for residents at Raunds are entirely in the context of existing large commercial/industrial buildings at Warth Park, with views of the A45 main road. As such views of the temporary quarry operations will be secondary in nature and will only take up a small proportion of the view at any one time, lasting a series of short-term phases within the overall Long-term duration of the Proposed Development. The magnitude of adverse visual effect is considered to be Small and to be of a Minor significance. 4.5.73 In reality the above is the worse-case scenario, where the Warth Park Phase 2 development does not take place for a Long-term duration, allowing views towards the Site. In reality, it is likely a number of interlying buildings and facilities will be built between the viewpoint and the Site, severely restricting views towards the Site, making only very specific, glimpsed views possible. In this situation the significance of adverse visual effects is considered to be no higher than Negligible for local road users and local residents, with the Warth Park Phase 2 development becoming the dominant feature from the viewpoint.
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4.5.74 It is unknown, what height the buildings at Warth Park Phase 2 will be (between the viewpoint and the Site), and it is unknown what views from any hotel and or restaurant will be achieved based on orientation. It is assumed any hotel and / or restaurant may allow views towards the Site and the wind turbines beyond. Due to the location of the hotels / restaurants at an existing commercial / industrial park, adjacent to the A45, the visual amenity afforded to views is not considered to be particularly high. 4.5.75 Ground floor views will be similar in nature to those experienced by local road users, with interlying features and topography restricting views to a very small proportion of the Site. The Warth Park Phase 2 Masterplan also indicates tree planting between the development and the A45 which will further screen and obscure any views. 4.5.76 First floor views will have slightly less filtered views through the tops of interlying vegetative features with a slightly larger area of surface level operations potentially visible along with soil mounds and vehicle movements. Views in to the extraction areas will be limited to near surface excavations and infilling operations. 4.5.77 Second floor views, will achieve less restricted views, where interlying vegetation is not mature enough to filter views. This may allow views further north in to the Site. As such, views will take in a narrow band of surface level excavation and restoration operations, that will form a series of short-duration phases initially progressing westwards in the northern half of the Site, before progressing eastwards in the southern half of the Site. Due to the topography (i.e. the Site falls away to the south), views of the back wall of extraction may be discernible for southern extraction areas. Such views will again be restricted to near surface operations. Views will also take in grassed (and farmed) soil mounds and vehicle movements along the Site access and across the Site. 4.5.78 Second floor views may have greater opportunities to see the phased operations of at the Site and will also take in a much wider view of the landscape, such that operations only take up a small proportion of the view at any one time. Views from the second floor will not break the skyline, with operations set against the backdrop of the existing and surrounding landscape. Views will also take in the busy main road (A45), south of the Site, forming a prominent part of the view. 4.5.79 Depending on when the hotels / restaurants come in to being, views will be available for a Medium to Long duration period. The worst case scenario is a series of Short-term duration phases consisting of a narrow band of near surface extraction and restoration operations being partially visible as progressive working and restoration of the Site occurs, forming an overall small proportion of the view at any one time. Views will also take in vehicle movements (within the Site and along the access road) and soil storage mound operations. 4.5.80 The magnitude of adverse visual effects is considered to be Small - Medium, with the significance considered to be Minor – Moderate, for second floor hotel users. The overall magnitude and significance of adverse visual effects will be diminished for views from lower levels. 4.5.81 Upon restoration, the Site will be restored to a series of large agricultural fields, with species-rich hedgerows and a number of small woodland elements. Views towards the Site upon restoration will last for a Very long term duration, with the Site being progressively screened by interlying woodland elements between Warth Park and the
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Site. Second floor views from a hotel or restaurant, will potentially take in a wide area of the restoration, forming an overall small - medium proportion of the view. The magnitude of beneficial visual effects is considered to be Small – Medium (accounting for progressive screening upon full maturity of woodland elements), with the significance considered to be Minor-Moderate. The magnitude and significance will be lower the nearer the view is to ground level, with the Site forming a smaller proportion of the view and being predominantly screened from view. 4.5.82 Due to the development of Warth Park Phase 2, views of the restored Site will likely not be achieved by local road users and from first floor rooms for local residents on the northwest edge of Raunds. There are not considered to be any significant beneficial visual effects upon restoration of the Site for these receptors Cumulative Combined Effects on Viewpoint 5 4.5.83 No other mineral extraction sites will be visible from the viewpoint. From the viewpoint, the only cumulative impact will be from the development of Warth Park Phase 2. During the time of its construction it will progressively screen views from the viewpoint of the Site, and will become the dominant development in view, forming a permanent part of the landscape. As such no significant adverse cumulative effects are anticipated, with Warth Park Phase 2 becoming the primary view for local road users and residents, as is the permitted situation. For hotel and restaurant users, where views are orientated towards the Site, it is not anticipated for the users to be subject to any significant adverse cumulative effects from other known developments in the area. Assessment from Viewpoint 6 4.5.84 Viewpoint 6 is from footpath UG39, near to Scalley Farm and adjacent bungalow, 275m southeast of the Site, i.e. is a Close-range viewpoint (see figure L9). The view is representative of local footpath users, who are considered to be of a Medium visual sensitivity. The residence at Scalley Farm and the adjacent bungalow has no direct views towards the Site, with only very oblique first floor views potentially available where adjacent trees and farm buildings do not screen views. Oblique first floor views will be of Medium sensitivity. 4.5.85 The view shows a large arable field in the foreground with a block of evergreen trees adjacent to Scalley Farm, a farmstead consisting of tradition stone buildings and modern, metal cladded buildings. The horizon is not visible beyond Scalley Farm from the viewpoint. 4.5.86 In the mid-ground there is a belt of trees extending from the left hand side of the view, originating from below the existing ground levels at the viewpoint (i.e. woodland/tree cover adjacent to the A45). The right hand central part of the view has relatively lower and less dense tree cover. Beyond the interlying vegetation, there is a large agricultural field which slopes gently upwards with hedgerows at the top of the field (this is the field to the southeast of the Site adjacent to the A45). Views of the western parts of the Site and the Nene Valley, are primarily screened by the interlying trees in the left-hand part of the view. 4.5.87 The background to the view, and skyline, is formed by slightly higher land to the north of the Nene Valley, with land cover consisting of a series of hedgerow delineated fields with intermittent woodlands and tree cover.
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4.5.88 From the viewpoint, only partial, filtered views through interlying vegetation are possible of high points in the central areas of the Site. In the early phases of development, grassed soil storage mounds will be established (S1 and T3) near to the Southern boundary of the Site. The tops of these may just be visible over the hedgerow (which will be allowed to grow up to 3m high). The mounds will be graded to allow farming and will have land cover consistent with the surrounding landscape, thus limiting the visual impact. 4.5.89 Extraction operations in the northern part of the Site will not be visible from the viewpoint, due to the interlying topography of the Site. Only central southern areas of the Site will be visible, primarily filtered through interlying vegetation. 4.5.90 Filtered views (less evident in summer when the trees are in leaf) will be restricted to near surface level extraction and restoration operations, such that the landform in the mid-ground will be made visibly lower for a Short – Medium term duration, prior to restoration, according to the phasing of operations. As extraction and subsequent restoration operations will only enter in to view in the Medium term, interlying woodland and vegetation will have continued to develop further screening views, such that operations will only take up a very small proportion of the view at any one time. 4.5.91 No operations are set against the skyline. Prior to extraction operations on the visible parts of the Site from the viewpoint the soil mounds will be removed. Other extraction operations are below ground level and not visible from the viewpoint. 4.5.92 Overall, a small proportion of the view will be taken up by operations for a short to medium term duration, at the latter stages of the long term duration proposals, with views often filtered and restricted to near surface operations. Overall, the magnitude of adverse visual effect is considered to be Very Small, with the significance considered to be Negligible - Minor, for both local footpath users and residents at Scalley Farm. 4.5.93 It is likely that prior to works at the Site progressing in to view from the viewpoint, Scalley Farm will be vacated and/or demolished to accommodate the Warth Park Phase 2 development, as such no views will be obtained by residents from the viewpoint. 4.5.94 As part of the Warth Park Phase 2 development, footpath UG38 will be slightly realigned. The realignment is unlikely to significantly change the adverse visual effects assessed above. The area west and north of realigned footpath also appears to be subject to substantial landscaping and tree planting, which will further screen views and diminishing the adverse visual effects experienced along the footpath further. 4.5.95 Upon completion of restoration, views in to the Site will be primarily screened by the continued development of interlying vegetation, including new tree cover at Warth Park Phase 2. As such only partial, generally filtered views of a very small proportion of the Site will be visible. The magnitude of beneficial visual effects upon restoration will be Very Small, with the significance considered to be Negligible. Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 6 4.5.96 No additional mineral sites will be visible in combination or sequentially past this viewpoint location. Cumulative successive views will take in both the partial views of Site and the Warth Park Phase 2 development. Warth Park Phase 2 will permanently add very large commercial / industrial buildings in close proximity to the (realigned) footpath, in comparison to the very small proportion of the view taken up by the temporary
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operations at the Site. As such, the Warth Park development will become the prominent development in view, with the minor adverse visual effects of the Proposed Development becoming secondary in nature and less appreciable. The cumulative effects from the viewpoint are considered to have an additional Very Small magnitude impact over and above the individual effects and the permitted situation with regard to Warth Park. The significance of the cumulative adverse effect is considered to be Negligible. Assessment from Viewpoint 7 4.5.97 Viewpoint 7 (see figure L10) is from Nene Way Long Distance Recreational Route, near to Irthlingborough Road (Little Addington), around 1.6km from the Proposed Development i.e. a Long-range view. The long distance path is locally promoted by Northamptonshire Country Council as the Irthlingborough to Barnwell section of the Nene Way County Path. The viewpoint is representative of views obtained by users of the Nene Way, who are considered to be of a High visual sensitivity and glimpsed views obtained by local road users, who are considered to be of a Low visual sensitivity. 4.5.98 The views for users of the long distance path are transient, primarily achieved by users travelling southeast along the path as opposed to northwards where views are directed away from the Site. Very specific views for local road users are glimpsed through gaps in hedgerows. 4.5.99 Views from properties at Little Addington, close to the viewpoint, are generally not obtained due to interlying screening features in close proximity to the properties, with few properties having windows directly facing towards the Proposed Development. Only very specific, first floor views may potentially be achieved, with the visual sensitivity of residents considered to be Medium. 4.5.100 The foreground of the view takes in a large open field gently sloping down in to Nene Valley. In the far left hand side of the view are 3 properties with adjacent trees, with maturing woodland to the far right-hand side of the view. A large stack or industrial tower is visible over this woodland. The middle ground takes in the tops of the various woodland components in the Nene Valley will the land gently rising back up on the east side of the valley consisting of large fields with boundary hedgerows. The Site forms a thin band in the central part of the view at the crest of the slope. The background to the view consists of a mix of distant fields and woodland components. To the south of the Site, the commercial/industrial buildings at Warth Park are visible. 4.5.101 For a temporary duration time period from the beginning of operations, the main element of works visible from the viewpoint will be in the northwestern part of the Site associated with the Initial Landscaping Zone. Soil storage mounds will be established on the northwestern boundaries of the Site, with the landform raised in the northwest corner of the Site in line with the proposed restoration landform. Upon completion of the initial landform raising, it will be restored to calcareous grassland. 4.5.102 Views of operations in the eastern half of the site will be severely limited, with only surface level operations visible, and not discernible due to flat nature of the land and the majority of the operations occurring below ground level. Vehicle movements will be visible across the top of the Site, associated with the operations. For the initial temporary to short duration time period at the beginning of development, operations will take up a very small to small proportion of the view.
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4.5.103 Views of extraction and progressive restoration operations as the phasing progresses westwards, will be limited to near-surface level operations such as topsoil and overburden removal / replacement. The northwestern most extraction phases will be predominantly screened from view by the new permanent landform. As extraction progresses southwards, only the western most extraction phases will be discernible, with operations consisting of topsoil and overburden removal and infilling, restricted to surface level operations. Any operations 3m below ground level will not generally be visible from the viewpoint. 4.5.104 The extraction and restoration phases will form a series of very narrow bands across the Site, each lasting a short-term duration, leading to the progressive removal of existing landscape elements, such as hedgerows and the agricultural fields. Each phase of operations with only take up very small proportion of the view, including adjacent restoration activities. 4.5.105 As the remainder of the northwestern parts of the Site are landfilled and restored to achieve the proposed restoration landform, associated operations will be visible above the level of the already restored land in the Initial Landscaping Zone, taking up a very small proportion of the view, set against the backdrop of the existing and restored landscape, lasting a short-term duration. 4.5.106 Overall, the operations visible from the viewpoint will take up a series of very small to small areas of the view, lasting for a series of short term durations. At the distance involved, detailed views of the operations are not discernible. The proposals will not affect the skyline formed by the various agricultural land and woodland components in the background of the view. 4.5.107 The magnitude of adverse visual effects from the proposals is considered to be Small, with views also taking in existing buildings at Warth Park and the industrial estate southeast of Little Addington. The significance of adverse visual effects is considered to be Minor - Moderate for users of the Nene Way Long Distance Recreational Route. For local road users, with only transient, glimpsed views obtainable, the magnitude is considered to be Very Small (accounting for the fact views are transient and glimpsed) and the significance of adverse visual effects is considered to be Negligible. 4.5.108 For any specific view obtained by specific local residents, the significance of adverse visual effects of Small magnitude is considered to be of Minor significance at worst. 4.5.109 The beneficial visual effects upon restoration will last a Very Long term duration, reinstating the land to a series of large fields, with hedgerows, with additional small woodland components. Overall, the magnitude of beneficial visual effect is considered to be Small. The significance of the effects are considered to be Negligible for users of the Nene Way and Minor for local road users and residents at Little Addington. Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 7 4.5.110 No additional mineral extraction sites will be visible in combination or sequentially past this viewpoint location. The permitted Warth Park Phase 2 development is anticipated to become visible during the lifetime of the proposals, adding large permanent building to the landscape, with the construction period anticipated to last a short to medium term duration.
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4.5.111 Overall, the combined operations at the two sites will take up a small to medium proportion of the view for a Short to Medium term duration, with Warth Park Phase 2 becoming a permanent landscape feature and the Site, being progressively restored to complement the landscape character of the area. The magnitude of adverse visual effects is considered to be Small over and above the individual effects of the proposals and the permitted situation. The significance is considered to be Minor - Moderate for users of the Nene Way, with the significance lower for local road users and residents (where views are afforded). Assessment from Viewpoint 8 4.5.112 Viewpoint 8 is from the Nene Way Long Distance Path around 1.3km west-northwest of the Site, i.e. Long range (refer Figure L11). The view is representative of views obtained by users of the long distance footpath who will be of a High visual sensitivity and glimpsed views obtained through gaps in hedgerows for local road users of Woodford Road, who are of a Low visual sensitivity. 4.5.113 The foreground of the view is dominated large agricultural fields gently sloping down in to the Nene Valley with low hedgerows broadly heading away from the viewpoint. The mid- ground of the view is taken up by views in to the Nene Valley and the various woodland components and water bodies present. The background of the view is primarily woodland in the left-hand side of the view with the central and right-hand side of the view consisting of eastern slopes of the River Nene Valley, with land cover consisting of large fields and hedgerows. Distant, filtered views through woodland are available of the buildings at Warth Park. 4.5.114 The Site is visible as a narrow strip across the skyline in the central portion of the view. Views in to the Site are partially filtered by interlying vegetation. Views are primarily restricted to the northwestern part of the Site with all eastern areas of the Site not visible. 4.5.115 Temporary duration works in the initial stages of development, will result in soil mounds being placed on the northwestern boundaries of the site, with adjacent land being slightly raised in accordance with the proposed restoration landform and a hedgerow planted along the northern boundary. These works will only take up a very small proportion of the view and will not be discernible in detail at the distance involved. 4.5.116 The raised landform in the northwestern part of the Site will restrict views of excavation and landfilling operations as they progress westwards across the northern part of the Site, with only surface level operations visible. The restoration of northwestern parts of the Site to calcareous grassland at the earliest opportunity, will also give the visual appearance of much of the Site being in agriculture in keeping with the surrounding landscape. 4.5.117 Views of operations in the southwestern part of the Site are limited to the top of the existing levels, with excavation downwards meaning views of operation on the quarry pavement are not achieved. At the distance the viewpoint is taken from, the operations will not be discernible in detail. 4.5.118 Upon restoration of the northwestern part of the Site to levels slightly higher than the existing situation, the landform may marginally break the skyline, only taking up a very small proportion of the view with associated landfilling operation being in view for a Short term duration.
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4.5.119 Overall the Proposed Development will take up a very small proportion of the view, lasting a series of short duration operational periods over the Medium to Long term duration of operations in the western areas of the Site. The magnitude of adverse visual effect is considered to be Small for users of the Nene Way and Very Small for local road users. The significance of the adverse visual effects is considered to be Minor - Moderate for users of the Nene Way and Negligible for local road users. 4.5.120 The residual views upon restoration will result in the western parts of the Site being returned to a series of large fields, with hedgerows and some small wooded elements. Eastern parts of the Site will generally not be visible. The magnitude of beneficial visual effects is considered to be Small. The significance of the adverse visual effects is considered to be Negligible for users of the Nene Way and for local road users. Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 8 4.5.121 No additional mineral extraction sites will be visible in combination or sequentially past this viewpoint location. The Warth Park Phase 2 development will be visible on the horizon in the right hand portion of the view at the same time as the Proposed Development. The Warth Park development will take up a small to medium proportion of the view for a very long term duration, adding permanent features to the landscape and potentially altering the skyline marginally. The comparably temporary operations at the Site will not form a dominant part of the view, with the magnitude of adverse cumulative visual effects considered to be Very Small over and above the individual effects and permitted situation at Warth Park, lasting only during the operational lifespan at the quarry. The significance of the combined effects are considered to be Minor – Moderate for users of the Nene Way and Negligible - Minor for local road users. Assessment from Viewpoint 9 4.5.122 Viewpoint 9 (Figure L12) is from a Public Right of Way (footpath) – footpath number PE13 leading south from Woodford Road, 2.1km north-northwest of the Site, i.e. Long range distance. The viewpoint is also adjacent to a Permissive Access path leading to Glebe Farm, promoted by Defra/Natural England to “provide extra access to the countryside” and to link existing footpaths. The view is representative for local footpath users, who are of a Medium – High visual sensitivity and glimpsed views for local road users, who are of a Low visual sensitivity. 4.5.123 The view takes in an agricultural field in the foreground, sloping gently downwards to the east, with telegraph pylons crossing the fields and a farmstead (Glebe Farm) at a lower level in the left hand side of the photograph. The mid-ground takes views in to the River Nene Valley with various woodland components and large water bodies visible. 4.5.124 The Site is visible as a long narrow strip at the crest of the southern slopes of the River Nene Valley in the central part of the view. The land cover on the slopes up to the Site consists of agricultural fields with hedgerows. The background of the view takes in distant views of slightly higher land south-southeast of the Site, with land cover consisting of agricultural fields and woodland blocks. The skyline is formed by this slightly higher land, with the industrial/commercial buildings at Warth Park marginally breaking the skyline directly beyond the Site.
4.5.125 Views in to the Site will be isolated to the northern-most area of the proposals, with southern areas falling away from the viewpoint and not visible. The initial phasing of
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operations will be located in the northeastern area of the Site, forming the left-hand part of the Site from the viewpoint. Views of surface level operations will be obtained for a Medium term duration, taking up a series of short duration phases taking up a series of very small areas of the view, progressing westwards (to the right on the photograph). The completion of extraction operations will be followed by progressive restoration of the landform and the addition of characteristic landscape elements. 4.5.126 Upon restoration of levels in the northeast corner of the Site, soil storage mounds (T2 and S3) will be established and grassed. These will take up a very small proportion of the view for a Long term duration, with subsoil storage mound S3 graded such that the northeastern areas of the site can be returned to agriculture at the earliest opportunity throughout the lifetime of the development. 4.5.127 As operations progress westwards, operations become increasingly screened and filtered by interlying woodlands and its continued development, making the loss of individual landscape elements and introduction of operational elements less discernible. 4.5.128 At the beginning of operations, filtered views (through interlying vegetation) of works in the Initial Landscaping Zone may be achieved lasting for a temporary duration, taking up a very small proportion of the view. Views of site infrastructure (e.g. site offices) may just be visible at the high point of the site, with topsoil mound T1 directly behind. These elements will not be discernible in any detail taking up a very small proportion of the view for a long term duration. None of the proposals for the Site will break or alter the skyline. 4.5.129 Progressive restoration of the eastern parts of the Site will also introduce some characteristic woodland components near to the northeast boundary of the Site at an early stage of the Proposed Development, establishing from the Medium term onwards. 4.5.130 Overall, the operations will be visible as a series of short-term phases, progressing westwards across the site. Only a very small proportion of the view will be taken up by operations at any one time, with views becoming progressively filtered and screened beyond Phase 9. Views of extraction operations will be visible for Medium term duration, coupled with progressive restoration activities lasting for a Medium to Long term duration in total. 4.5.131 Users of the permissive footpath leading towards Glebe Farm will have diminishing views of the Site due to the fall in topography and lower levels to the northeast. 4.5.132 The magnitude of adverse visual effect is considered to be Very Small. The significance of the adverse visual effects is considered to be Minor for public footpath users and Negligible for local road users, with only transient, glimpsed views achieved. 4.5.133 The residual views upon restoration will result in a number of woodland components being added to the Site, with agricultural fields restored. These views will take up a very small proportion of the view for eastern parts of the Site. Western parts of the Site will be progressively screened by interlying woodland, such that views of the restoration will not be discernible. The magnitude of beneficial visual effects is considered to be Very Small. The significance of the adverse visual effects is considered to be Negligible for local footpath users and for local road users.
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Cumulative Effects on Viewpoint 9 4.5.134 No additional mineral extraction sites will be visible in combination or sequentially past this viewpoint location. In combination with the proposed Development the permitted Warth Park Phase 2 will be constructed during the operational lifespan of the Site, adding a number of large buildings to the landscape beyond the Site for a permanent duration. Views of the buildings (and construction period) at Warth Park will be primarily filtered by interlying woodland set against the backdrop of the existing background to the view. 4.5.135 The temporary operations at the Site will not form a dominant part of the view, with the magnitude of adverse cumulative visual effects considered to be Very Small over and above the individual effects, lasting only during the operational lifespan at the quarry. The significance of the combined effects are considered to be Minor for local footpath users and Negligible for local road users.
Table 14 Visual Impact Significance – Summary of Effects (Operational Period)
Magnitude Significance: View Highest Receptor Types (operational point Sensitivity period) Individual Effects Cumulative Effects
1 Local road users Low Small Negligible Negligible
Local road users Low Small Negligible Negligible 2 Medium - Cycle route users Small Minor - Moderate Negligible High
Medium - 3 Local bridleway users Small Minor - Moderate Negligible High
4 Local footpath users Medium Small - Medium Minor -
Local road users Low Very Small Negligible Negligible
5 Residents (first floor) Medium Small Minor Negligible
Future hotel users High Small - Medium Minor - Moderate -
Local footpath users Medium Very Small Negligible - Minor Negligible 6 Residents (first floor) Medium Very Small Negligible - Minor -
Nene Way users High Small Minor - Moderate Minor - Moderate
7 Local road users Low Very Small Negligible Negligible
Residents (first floor) Medium Small Minor Negligible - Minor
Nene Way users High Small Minor - Moderate Minor - Moderate 8 Local road users Low Very Small Negligible Negligible
Medium - Local footpath users Very Small Minor Minor High 9 Local road users Low Very Small Negligible Negligible
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4.6 Comment and Conclusions Landscape Impacts 4.6.1 The Site does not lie within an area of statutory landscape designation or local landscape designation. The landscape value of the Site has been described as being of a Low level. The landscape quality of the Site has been described as Ordinary. The sensitivity of the landscape character and landscape characteristics of the Site is Medium. 4.6.2 The Proposed Development has been devised to reflect the landscape policies in the various development plan documents and the specific management and planning guidelines provided in the various landscape character assessment and landscape policy documents and biodiversity plans relating to the Site. The proposed restoration scheme will secure a suitable and characteristic Very Long-term afteruse for the Site, in terms of improved landscape character and as a biodiversity resource aiding connectivity across the area. 4.6.3 In relation to landscape character, the adverse landscape effects during the operational period are typically of Medium magnitude, occurring for a Long-term duration and in absolute terms will remove a number characteristic landscape elements from the landscape during this time. Only low sensitivity elements are being removed from the landscape and the Site will be progressively restored throughout the operational period. The adverse effects on the prevalent landscape character during the operational period are of Minor-Moderate significance. 4.6.4 The beneficial effects (of Very Long-term duration) upon restoration will provide environmental enhancement consistent with the characteristics and objectives of the character area and are of Medium magnitude over the baseline situation at the Site. The Very-Long term beneficial effects on landscape character upon restoration will be of Moderate significance. 4.6.5 The capacity of the landscape is sufficient to accept the Proposed Development without incurring significant effects on landscape character during the operational period, due to the phased nature of the Proposed Development (operation and restoration) limiting the operational land take, with operations not lasting beyond the Long term duration. Visual Impacts 4.6.6 The visibility of the Site is currently limited primarily by the existing landform, hedgerows and woodland components at various points in the landscape (both near and far features). The Proposed Development is generally well-screened with views limited to areas to the south of the Site and from higher ground to the far west and northwest. 4.6.7 Mitigation measures have been devised to limit the adverse visual effects of the Proposed Development including advance woodland planting, temporary soil storage mounds used for screening, working direction (making use of the screening effects of the existing landform) and subsequent progressive restoration to limit the duration of impact as much as possible. The proposals will also lead to the entire Site being worked and subsequently restored within a Long term duration.
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4.6.8 A number of representative viewpoints have been assessed and the significance of adverse visual effects (taking mitigation into account) was found to be restricted to a Minor - Moderate level, with the impact at the majority of viewpoints Minor or less. 4.6.9 Cumulative impacts relate to combined or sequential views of the operations at the Site and the potential future developments of Warth Park Phase 2 and West End, Raunds. The cumulative effects will only be present for a temporary duration whilst the quarry is in operation, compared to the permanent features other developments will introduce to the landscape. The significance of combined adverse visual effects was found to be restricted to a Minor - Moderate level (for a two viewpoints), with the impact at the majority of viewpoints Negligible - Minor or less 4.6.10 The conclusion born from this LVIA is that the Proposed Development would not result in overall significant adverse visual effects (individual or cumulative), during the lifetime of the proposals.
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5 GLOSSARY 5.1.1 For the avoidance of confusion, the terms used in this report follow the definitions given below:
An area, as perceived by people (in relation to past experiences, education etc.), whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human Landscape factors. Landscape may comprise areas of rural land, urban fringe, urban land (townscape), coastal land, the sea (seascape) etc.
Landscape A component part of the landscape (e.g. landform, roads, hedges, woods). Element
Landscape A prominent eye-catching element (e.g. wooded hilltop or church spire). Feature
Landscape Combinations of elements and experiential characteristics (e.g. noise, smell) that Characteristics make a particular contribution to a Landscape Character Type.
The landscape characteristics discernible from a given viewpoint/location. The Landscape visual aspects of this can be illustrated in a static two-dimensional manner in Scene photographs to represent a sample view of the landscape scene.
Landscape The distinct recognisable pattern of elements that occurs consistently in a particular Character landscape and how people perceive this, creating a particular sense of place.
Landscape s refer to multiple areas of the same character. Character Types LCT
Landscape LCAs refer to specific geographical locations of a particular character type. These Character Areas can be described and categorised at different scales depending on criteria used.
The desirability of landscape characteristics (including scenic beauty, tranquillity, wildness, cultural associations, conservation interests etc.) and the acceptability of Landscape Value their loss to different stakeholders (i.e. valued for different reasons by different people and on different scales, e.g. local, national).
The strength of expression of landscape character and condition (intactness) of Landscape constituent characteristic elements from visual, functional, ecological and cultural Quality perspectives. This is not the same as Scenic Beauty.
Landscape The threshold at which change to the landscape resource results in significant Capacity change to its landscape character. This is directly related to landscape sensitivity.
Landscape The level of stability, robustness and resilience of the landscape elements present Sensitivity and their ability to be replicated based on their quality, condition and value.
Landscape The landscape value of the landscape character and the degree to which the Character combination of landscape characteristics (including landscape structure and quality) Sensitivity present can resist or recover from change or be replicated.
Landscape Landscape element, characteristic or character that would potentially Receptor receive/experience an effect.
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Individuals, special interest groups, a community or population that would potentially Visual Receptor experience an effect on their view. Subjective value attributed to the emotional response of an individual to a landscape scene, which, although heavily influenced by intrinsic quality, is Scenic Beauty conditioned by an individual's perception (memories, associations, cultural influences and preference). The subjective value attributed to the degree of pleasure gained from what is seen Visual Amenity in a given view (quality of view).
The estimated level of susceptibility or likely viewer‟s response to a change in view Visual Sensitivity from a given viewpoint in relation to its context, the existing visual amenity, the activity and expectations of the viewer and the number of viewers affected.
Subjective experience from being at a location that provides individuals with the space and conditions to relax, achieve mental balance and a sense of distance from Tranquillity stress. Tranquil areas are often associated with quiet, remote (or appearing remote), natural, non-developed (non-built) and non-busy areas.
A landscape or visual impact that is likely to be a pertinent „material consideration‟ Significant (i.e. an important matter that should be taken into account in deciding a planning Impact application) due to the context and intensity of the effect. This is directly related to set criteria and terminology as set out within the assessment process.
The areas within which the subject site can be seen, the amount of site visible and Site visibility the numbers able to see the subject site.
Also known as a Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV), Visual Envelope Map (VEM) and Viewshed. This represents the area over which a development can theoretically Zone of Visual be seen, based on a DTM. The ZTV usually presents a „bare ground‟ scenario - that Influence (ZVI) is, a landscape without screening structures or vegetation. This information is usually presented upon a map base.
Also known as a digital elevation model (DEM). This is a digital representation of Digital Terrain the ground surface (landform or terrain) created by linking co-ordinate points of Model (DTM) surveyed elevation values to create a 3D „model‟ which computers can use to undertake calculations relating to slope angles, point visibility, flood risk etc.
Term used to describe the height and width of a view as represented by an image. These constitute the horizontal field of view and vertical field of view and are Field of View expressed as angles in degrees. Humans have an extreme horizontal field of view (FOV) of about 200°, but only 6-10° will be in focus at any one time. Thus a viewer moves their eyes and head around to see a view over a wide area.
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REFERENCES:
1. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Second Edition) - The Landscape Institute and IEMA (2002)
2. Landscape Character Assessment – Guidance for England and Scotland - Carys Swanwick and Land Use Consultants (2002)
3. Countryside Character Network workshop proceedings: Landscape Capacity and Sensitivity - Jan 2004
4. Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual impact assessment - Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/11 (2011)
5. Countryside Agency (1999), Countryside Character - Volume 4: East Midlands
6. Natural England (April 2010), East Midlands Regional Landscape Character Assessment
7. Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Current Landscape Character Assessment
8. Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Biodiversity Character Assessment
9. English Nature (Sept 1997), West Anglian Plains - Natural Area Profile
10. Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Northamptonshire Historic Landscape Character Assessment
11. Countryside Books (May 2008), Pocket Pub Walks in Northamptonshire
12. Northamptonshire Biodiversity Partnership (2008) - Northamptonshire Biodiversity Action Plan 2nd Edition
13. North Northamptonshire Joint Planning Unit (June 2008), North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy
14. Northamptonshire County Council (2005), Environmental Character and Green Infrastructure Suite – Policy and Context
15. www.old-maps.co.uk (last accessed Jan 2012)
16. www.ukbap-reporting.org.uk (last accessed Jan 2012)
17. Google Earth (last accessed Jan 2012)
18. www.magic.gov.uk (last accessed Jan 2012)
19. http://www.ringsteadpc.org.uk/page.php?article=730&name=Mallows+Cotton+Walk (last accessed Feb 2012)
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APPENDICES:
Appendix 1 Figures L1 to L12