The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens | Poundstock Bude | North Cornwall
Landscape + Visual Impact Assessment
PREPARED ON BEHALF OF: ATLANTIC VIEW CREMATORIUM CONSORTIUM | LL_354_LVIA_R002(-) MASTER PLANNING | ARCHITECTURE | URBAN DESIGN | LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
22 Lemon Street Truro Cornwall TR1 2LS www.lavignelonsdale.co.uk | tel: 01225 421539 | 01872 273118
Prepared on behalf of DOCUMENT: LL-277-R001 Contact: Martyn Lonsdale Prepared by: Ali Osborne--Brown
COPYRIGHT The contents of this document must not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of Lavigne Lonsdale
Revision : FINAL Date : 31.01.2021 Prepared: AOB Checked : ML Contents
1. Executive Summary 04 2. Introduction 08 3. Project Description 10 4. Methodology 26 5. Legislation, Planning Policy and Guidance 34 6. Landscape Baseline 46 7. Visual Baseline 62 8. Landscape + Visual Effects 66 1.0
1. Executive Summary
1.1. Background 1.3. Consultation
The site is 5.7ha (14.085 acres) in size, located off the A39, adjacent to the Pre-application consultation has been carried out with Cornwall Council the wider rural landscape, with a focus on enhancing the biodiversity hamlet of Coppathorne, approximately 1.3km south-east of Widemouth Bay (CC) with detailed advice and discussions carried out with the Planning and ecological value of the site. A peaceful memorial garden will also be and 5km due south of Bude, Cornwall. Case Officer Helen Blacklock who whilst on maternity leave was replaced created to offer people the opportunity for quiet contemplation in a place by James Hills. Lavigne Lonsdale tried to consult with Cornwall Council’s of tranquillity and support, with views of the Atlantic Ocean. The site comprises three fields laid to pasture, divided by hedgebanks with Landscape Officer to determine and agree the scope and methodology sparse vegetation. The A39 runs along the site’s eastern boundary linking of the LVIA and key landscape and visual receptors to be assessed. Landscape Character the site to Bude to the north and Camelford to the south. The Widemouth However the Planning Officer did not think that the Council would • Responding to the characteristics of the landscape character to Road runs along the southern boundary providing a connection to involve a dedicated landscape officer on the project so consultation was Widemouth Bay and a connection to Bude via the coastal route. enhance the areas local distinctiveness and reinforce the unique not possible. We have therefore used our professional judgement in characteristics of the Bude Basin Landscape Character Area CA38 The proposal is a full planning application for a new crematorium facility determining the visual receptors and confirm that our methodology is and the local landscape characteristics of the site and setting. and associated landscaping and infrastructure works. The proposal is thorough and fully compliant with GLVIA3. Topography and architectural language identified in Cornwall Council’s Pre Application Schedule as a Category ‘A’ - Two Design Reviews have taken place with the Cornwall Design Review major development. Panel (CDRP), the first on June 1st 2020, the second on November 18th • Responding to the natural contours of the site, sensitively siting the 2020. proposed facility at the low point on the site so that it is rooted in the 1.2. Guidance and purpose landscape. The CDRP fully endorses the scheme and the central ambition to avoid This LVIA has been carried out based upon the 3rd Edition guidelines, April the ‘municipal’ character of existing facilities elsewhere in Cornwall. Their • The architectural nature of the building takes its inspiration and 2013 for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA3). positive feedback was closely fed back into the design development. They form from the ancient long barrow burial sites, integrating ground applauded the aspirational design approach that integrates the project hugging bunds with a floating plane of the green roof structure that The purpose of this LVIA is to assess and evaluate the likely landscape closely with the landscape and ecology of the site and creates new open unifies the entrance, porte corchere, gathering space and ceremony effects and likely visual effects of the proposed development on the site spaces/gardens for reflection and for memorial use. They feel it provides spaces. and surrounding environment and those who use it. It is an important an elevated level of grace and dignity to funeral proceedings and offers the working tool which has been used to inform and guide the design of the opportunity to be a project of ‘national’ if not ‘international’ design quality. • A single entry/exit access at the low point of the southern boundary, development. Their view is that the project would be a fine addition to the public and offset from Widemouth Road to provide a welcome threshold civic architecture of Cornwall. and sense of arrival, minimises ground modeling and reduces the GLVIA3 emphasises the importance of a landscape-led and iterative visibility of the new access road and vehicles from the A39 approach to the design process, i.e. the process by which the design of the development is amended and improved by successive stages of refinement 1.4. Design Approach • The access road is set in cutting, employing the effective use of a in response to a growing understanding of environmental and baseline Ha-Ha on the southern side. This is a recessed landscape design issues. This document has been an important working tool in guiding the design element, notably a battered Cornish stone wall barrier which allows of the development to ensure that mitigation is embedded in an iterative for the ‘tilting’ of ground levels adjacent to the A39 and effectively It also helps to ensure that where necessary, appropriate and effective way. The LVIA has been supported by a hedgerow assessment, ecological screens views of the road ,vehicles and car parking from the A39 mitigation is embedded into the scheme from the outset (‘primary surveys, ground investigations, environmental health surveys (noise, odour, whilst preserving an uninterrupted view of the landscape beyond. mitigation’), as well as being considered and factored in as the scheme air quality) drainage / flood risk assessment and a transport assessment evolves (‘secondary mitigation’). which aided an early understanding of the site and its sensitivities and Creating a journey constraints. Opportunities for landscape and ecological enhancement have also been • The vision is to create a series of ‘places’ and ‘thresholds’ - a identified i.e. improving the landscape of the site beyond its baseline 1.4.1. Primary Mitigation Measures sequential journey with a beginning, a middle and an end - that condition. This is not a formal requirement but offers the opportunity to supports the events and emotions experienced by those sharing in bring about positive benefits i.e. land management; enhanced habitats Primary mitigation measures are those which have been designed into the the ceremony of goodbye. This is achieved by creating three main and other valued features; and the creation of new landscape, habitat and scheme as an iterative part of the design process. elements within a series of special spaces that are linked by a primary recreational areas. processional route. The overarching ambition of the scheme is to have minimal impact on its Recommendations for the various mitigation measures, and the surrounds, reflecting the sensitivity of the wider environment and proximity • The first part of the journey/ procession begins at the entrance opportunities identified for landscape and visual enhancements, are set out to the Pentire Point to Widemouth Bay Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - using a defined welcome threshold and moves into a serene, in this report. and the Week St. Mary Area of Great Landscape Value. meadow landscape; The second threshold, marked by the existing Cornish hedge and monolith standing stones, moves into an area of The proposal is a sensitively designed building which is integrated into informal parkland with a Memorial Garden for quiet contemplation 4 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 1.0
and framed views beyond to the destination space - the Ceremony incorporates a Memorial Landscape for quiet contemplation and Trees in hard landscape, or adjacent highways - Quercus petraea; - Building - the final threshold. Here there is a main visitor car park greatly enhances biodiversity. Quercus ilex (individual trees in hard paved areas); Prunus with a separate road for cortège vehicles which arrives at the formal padus ‘Waterei’ (for enclosed sunken courtyards - semi mature entrance to the building. The projecting roof creates a gathering • The landscape provides an integral structure to how the various multistem (3stems min) - 20-25 equivalent. space for mourners and provides shelter for the arrival of the hearse. spaces are used and establishes a cohesive and holistic landscape The processional route is concluded upon entering the Ceremony character that seamlessly knits together the development with its • Semi-ornamental grasses, shrubs and herbaceous to courtyards setting. building where visitors are greeted with an open view of the ocean. • Hedgebank: North Cornwall palette which includes all native tree • Equally the return journey has been sensitively considered after the • Working closely with the ecologists and sustainable drainage and scrub species found in the existing hedges; Quercus petraea service, with a reflective pool centred on views beyond to the sea, consultants has ensured a fully integrated SuDS and ecology strategy 20%; Corylus avellana 15%; Crataegus monogyna 15%; Sambucus formal gardens and a wreath garden. On leaving after the ceremony, embedded into the landscape, with existing features such as nigra 10%; Salix caprea 15%; Salix cinerea 15%; Prunus spinosa 10% drainage ditches providing enhanced ecologically-rich habitats and the journey graduates from the more formal setting of the Ceremony All as whips planted in two parallel rows at 5 stems per metre. Building, through the semi-informal contemplative Memorial new features such as standing water ponds providing multifunctional Gardens to the gentle, pastoral landscape on leaving the site. design, drainage and biodiversity benefits. • Pond / Wetland SuD’s Areas: planted in groups of 6-12 of the same species @ 500ctrs; Salix caprea 60-90cm transplant (20%); Salix • Monumental stones are used at the natural breaks in the Cornish • Defra Metric calculations show that the scheme achieves a biodiversity uplift of 31.95% for hedgerows and 116.57% biodiversity cinerea 60-90cm transplant (20%); Carex pendula 3L (15%); Caltha Hedges along the route of the road to define the transition between palustris 2L (15%); Butumus umbellatus 2L (10%); Iris pseudocorus 3L thresholds and act as wayfinding markers. gain (BG) for the habitats. These figures greatly exceed the 10% Biodiversity Gain requirement for both hedgerow units and habitat (10%); Juncus effusus 2L (10%). Existing views units and shows that the proposal would potentially create a • Principal seed mixes - All Emorsgate – or an equivalent. UK biodiversity hotspot in this area. • Protecting and retaining uninterrupted views out from the A39 and provenance ONLY. the site westwards to the coast. Planting Mixes EM8 – wet grassland for the main fields • Considering nearby views from users of the A39, nearby residents • Note: Full planting details are set out in the Landscape Design EW1 – woodland ground flora used in open glades where there and users of scenic roads to minimise views of the proposed Strategy section of the DAS. This summarises the main planting are scrub/oak woodland development. types and mixes. All plants are native species and UK provenance EP1 – used for extending the ditches and around the fringes of only. open water. • Considering views of the area from visitor destinations, dedicated viewpoints on the coast, the South West Coastal Path, public rights • Woodland Mix Planting Blocks: North Cornwall palette - UK • Green Roof: meadow grassroof - Emorsgate EM8 of way and the nearby Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. provenance. Substantial blocks of native woodland planting and 1.4.2. Secondary Mitigation Measures/Ecological Enhancements understorey with open glades. Trees and shrubs to be planted in Exemplar approach to landscape design, planting and biodiversity groups and under-planted with shade tolerant grass mix species (Emorsgate EW1 - shady ground flora mix). • Hedgerows in moderate to poor condition will benefit from • Retaining and re-establishing the existing hedge banks on site additional bolster planting and management to improve, species- which have been damaged, severed or isolated. These are typically • Tree & Shrub Mix: mixed age (60-90cm main block groups with light diversity, longevity and condition characteristic of the site and setting, provide shelter, help to define feathered / 8-10cm standard in groups throughout mix; spaces and provide a sense of place. They also provide wildlife • A Landscape and Ecological Management Plan to demonstrate how habitats /linear corridors and form an integral part of the landscape (60-90cm transplants at 1m centres in a random grid. Quercus light habitats and green spaces will be managed in the long-term and framework to the development. feathered / 8-10cm standards in groups through out mix). ensure the vision for the development is sustainably maintained
• Sensitively incorporate native trees and naturalised planting (Oak) Quercus petraea 20%; (Hawthorn) Cratagegus monogyna • The development offers an opportunity to improve the site for to enhance the landscape character and reflect the natural 15%; (Goat willow) Salix caprea 20%; (Grey willow) Salix cinerea wildlife and deliver a substantial biodiversity net gain, in line characteristics of the rural setting. 20%; (Hazel) Corylus avellana 5%; (Elder) Sambucus nigra with national and local planning guidance. Potential biodiversity 5%; (Holly) Ilex aquifolium 5%; (Field maple) Acer campestre 5%; enhancements, additional to the mitigation and compensation • The landscape design and planting has been sympathetically (Spindle) Euonymus europaeus 5%. measures, include native tree and shrub planting , species-rich designed to filter and screen views, provide a sensitive sense grassland and species-rich damp/wetland areas to SuDs features. of arrival and give orientation guidance to visitors. It effectively • Tree Planting to car park and individual trees in hard landscaped breaks up the distinction between the built and natural landscape, areas/courtyards: Selected Standard trees for parking areas (8-10, • Timing construction works to avoid disturbance to protected species 10-12, 12-14cm) 2x transplanted, RB. - planted as an Oak Grove. The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 5 1.0
• Lighting - The entrance to the development site will be lit to • Landscape Planning Designations - Public Rights of Way onto the site. Collectively, the development will have a Moderate Adverse adoptable standards with low-level lighting on the internal roadway • Landscape Planning Definition - Heritage Coast effect on land use, however the extensive mitigation that includes locating and an appropriate lighting plan for bats that includes ‘no light’ the building to the farthest and lowest corner of the site, together with areas along the commuting routes (existing foraging hedge lines) Moderate Beneficial integrated ground modeling and Ha-Ha to screen views of movement and and provision of green space foraging routes. • Topography use is beneficial. It is assessed overall that this will result in an permanent residual Neutral effect. • A Construction Environmental Management Plan to demonstrate Substantial Beneficial measures to protect the site, surrounding habitats and the nearby • Vegetation In terms of the landscape character the proposed development is Tintagel-Marshland-Clovelly Coast Special Area of Conservation predicted to have a negative effect in relation to the tranquility of the site (SAC) and Boscatle to Widemouth Site of Special Scientific Interest 1.5.3. Permanent Residual Effects After 15 Years due to the introduction of new movement and activity. However, this has (SSSI). Neutral been effectively mitigated through sensitive design as described above • Land Use and the significant enhancements to the sites landscape components, 1.5. Landscape Effects condition, aesthetic and perceptual qualities - with the creation of a semi- Slight Beneficial wild, naturalised and biodiverse setting. There have been 8 landscape receptors identified and their level/nature • Landscape Planning Designations - AONB Permanent residual Substantial Beneficial effects are predicted on the and duration of effect assessed. These included: vegetation, topography, • Landscape Planning Designations - Public Rights of Way land use, landscape character and landscape planning designations. components that contribute towards the landscape character of the site Slight/Moderate Beneficial and setting. Integral to the development is the matured, comprehensive Please note: We have identified the cultural heritage assets and nature • Landscape Planning Designations - AGLV green infrastructure /native planting framework that provides greatly conservation designation assets within the study area to inform our • Landscape Planning Definition - Heritage Coast enhanced and improved vegetation, biodiversity and visual amenity - all assessment of the value and sensitivity of the landscape and views/visual reflective of the local landscape character. receptors within or of these assets. For the assessment of effects on the Moderate Beneficial Ecology refer to the Ecological Assessment prepared by Code 7 Ecology. • Topography The topography has been sensitively considered, forming a critical element • Landscape Character of the design to subtly minimise views of the development. In addition, 1.5.1. Temporary Construction Effects the Crematorium has taken principals from the ancient barrow burial sites, None Very Substantial Beneficial in part formed from earth bunding with a floating grass roof to ensure it is • Landscape Planning Designations - AONB • Vegetation visually discrete and appears rooted in the landscape.
Neutral 1.5.4. Summary of Landscape Effects In terms of the nationally designated Pentire Point to Widemouth AONB, • Landscape Planning Designations - Public Rights of Way the site is nearly 1km distance from the nearest boundary of the AONB, The proposed development will result in a notable alteration to the however the development, will result in Slight Beneficial residual effects Slight Adverse baseline condition, changing from farmed agricultural crop grassland to a since it meets a number of the AONB Management Objectives, notably: • Vegetation sensitively designed Crematorium and Memorial Gardens exemplar. It does improving landscape integration of the A39 with the rural AONB setting not seek to alter the landscape components of hedge banks, hedgerows • Landscape Planning Designations - AGLV by improved planting design and management; supporting a landscape and grassland rather to significantly enhance their condition, visual amenity, scale approach to extending and connecting currently fragmented locally • Landscape Planning Definition - Heritage Coast character and biodiversity through design and long term ecological characteristic habitats, and proposing the planting of local provenance management. Moderate Adverse native tree species such as Sessile Oak, Hazel and Alder to act as a future • Landscape Character The changes during construction are predicted to have Moderate seed source for native woodland establishment where this is currently absent or sparse to assist subsequent natural regeneration. • Land Use Adverse effects on a number of receptors, notably landscape character, • Topography topography, land use and Slight Adverse effects on vegetation. Slight In terms of the locally designated Area of Great landscape Value, whilst the Adverse effects are also predicted for a localised area of the setting on site lies just outside the AGLV boundary, the proposed development will 1.5.2. Permanent Effects On Completion the AGLV and Heritage Coast to the southern end of the site only. These result in beneficial effects to its setting. The development is underpinned discordant effects are temporary and due to the nature of construction, not by the significant enhancement of the sites landscape quality and character, Neutral unexpected. • Land Use which supports the primary objective of the AGLV local designation. This is On completion the proposed development will result in a major alteration further enhanced by the substantial beneficial biodiversity net gains. These Negligible Beneficial to land use. This change will result in an intensification of use to part of beneficial effects are also predicted on the setting of the defined Heritage • Landscape Planning Designations - AONB the site, notably the northern section where the proposed Crematorium Coast. Slight Beneficial building and services are proposed, whereas the southern section of the Slight Beneficial effects are also predicted on Public Rights of Way. • National Regional and Local Landscape Character site will be retained predominantly as open meadow land with an access There is currently no public access into or through the site, however road. The development will also introduce regular activity and movement • Landscape Planning Designations - AGLV the development proposals include new open spaces and a naturalised 6 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 1.0
Memorial garden for the public to visit, reflect and remember loved ones. The predicted level of visual effect on completion on most receptors 2 neutral and 2 ‘No Change’ effects. After 15 Years, the vegetation will have is assessed as Neutral, where the proposals have neither a positive or grown and significantly matured, which, together with on-going management, 1.6. Visual Effects negative effect and the associated integrated mitigation represents an will provide a naturalised, green setting with a mosaic of natural and biodiverse indiscernible change to the quality of the view. woodland, Cornish Hedgebanks, pastoral meadowland and marginal habitats. The assessment identified 11 visual receptors. The visual effects were This will greatly enhance the site’s sense of place and local character, providing a assessed during construction, on completion and after a 15 year ‘No change’ is predicted to visual receptors 8 and 9 within the AONB and sensitive and beautiful setting to the Crematorium. establishment period. from the South West Coastal Path. Due to the exposed nature of the site it is expected that the native tree / scrub 1.6.1. During construction For visual receptors that are mid-to long distance views, the predicted planting will have reached a height of approximately 4.5-5m high by 15 years. changes to the view will be indiscernible when viewed in the context of Some of the trees will be wind blown, providing interesting and eye-catching Of the 11 visual receptors the predicted level and duration of effect during the wider panoramic extents. For nearer distance views, whilst there is natural features which will blend in with the adjacent low woodlands and provide construction has been assessed as follows: an acknowledged substantial change to the site’s land use and character some containment to the northern area of the site. It will also be effective in • 2 - None from agricultural open fields to a new Crematorium facility, the extensive integrating the exposed and elevated section of the A39 more effectively into the • 2 - Neutral landscape, design and ecological mitigation, integrated from the landscape. On-going management and the creation of woodland glades will not • 2 - Slight Adverse outset, provides a greatly enhanced sense of place, reintroducing local only ensure a greater diversity of ground flora but will also allow partial glimpsed • 2 - Slight/Moderate adverse characteristic features and habitats that strongly reflect and complement views of the Crematorium from the A39. • 1 - Moderate Adverse the local landscape. • 2 - Substantial Adverse The open grassland to the southern most part of the site will be well-established The use of subtle ground modeling rising up from along the A39, with and maintain an open, pastoral quality. The restored and new Cornish hedge Effects on the views during the construction period are deemed temporary native woodland planting mix and grass/wildflower glades atop restores banks will have matured to reinforce the unique local characteristics and qualities. over a 1-2 year period and are likely to include the following: isolated characteristic woodland elements along the A39. The architectural nature They will also provide visual filtering which, together with the use of the Ha-Ha, hedge removal for a new access road, excavation, material stock piles, site of the single-storey building takes its inspiration and form from the ancient will reinforce screened views of vehicles on the internal road. compound, construction and associated infrastructure works, construction long barrow burial sites, integrating ground hugging grass bunds with a of new building, movement of plant and machinery, ground re-modeling floating plane of a green roof structure. This combined with subtle bunding 1.7. Summary of Landscape + Visual Effects and drainage, low-level lighting and new bus stop and shelter installation and native scrub/tree planting around the proposed car park and the on Widemouth Road. wild flower grass roof to the Crematorium building provides a seamless It is assessed that the highly sensitive design, landscape and ecology -led transition from landscape to sky and is effective in concealing views of the approach to the development will result in predominantly long-term beneficial During construction, there is ‘No change’ predicted to the existing views internal road and car parking. effects on the majority of the landscape and visual receptors, with Neutral or from visual receptors 8 and 9 within the AONB and from the SWCP. There is No Change to a few receptors. Whilst there is an accepted major change and a ‘Neutral’ effect predicted on long distance views from visual receptors 10 Important views of the coastline and sea from the A39 are retained and intensification of land use on what is currently a green field site, the development and 11 by the coastline near Widemouth Bay - with no discernible positive enhanced. The southern most part of the site retains its open, grassland and inherent mitigation has been carried out in a sensitive manner. We accept or negative change to the quality or composition of the view. qualities and with the clever use of the Ha-Ha effectively screens views that there will be an effect upon the tranquility of the site, however this has been of vehicles on the internal road. The height of the earth bunding has extensively mitigated through sensitive design and enhancement measures. ‘Slight Adverse’ effects are predicted on near/mid-distance views (0.3- been carefully designed to provide effective concealment from day one 0.65km ) namely visual receptors 5 and 6. These are representative of users - appearing as a subtle and integral part of the land with the planting The development will result in significant enhancements to the sites landscape of a Public Right of Way by Widemouth Fields Holiday Park and road user intended to provide a ‘native green framework’ and greatly enhance components, character, condition, aesthetic and perceptual qualities - with the on an isolated high point on Widemouth Road. Slight/Moderate Adverse habitat diversity. At this stage however, the new planting will be in its creation of a semi-wild, naturalised and biodiverse setting. Combined with subtle effects are predicted on residential views from Higher Widemouth Farm. infancy and will require time to mature to make a greater positive and ground modeling to subtly minimise views of the development, the Crematorium A temporary ‘Moderate Adverse’ effect is predicted on visual receptor beneficial contribution to the views. itself takes its design principals from the ancient barrow burial sites, in part formed 4 - representative of the residential property and users of the bus stop from earth bunding, with a floating grass roof to ensure it is visually discrete and on Widemouth Road, directly opposite the site’s southern boundary. 1.6.3. Residual Effects After 15 Years appears rooted in the landscape. T Temporary ‘Substantial Adverse’ effects are predicted on visual receptors 2 and 3 - representative of users of the A39 traveling south and north The level and duration of effect on the 11 visual receptors has been The development also meets a number of the AONB Management Objectives, respectively. These effects are not unexpected since the receptors are assessed as follows: notably: improving landscape integration of the A39 with the rural AONB setting directly adjacent to and slightly elevated above the eastern length of the • 2 Moderate/Substantial Beneficial by improved planting design and management; supporting a landscape scale site and afforded direct and clear views into the site.. • 1 Moderate Beneficial approach to extending and connecting currently fragmented locally characteristic • 1 - Slight/Moderate Beneficial habitats, and proposing the planting of local provenance native tree species such 1.6.2. On Completion after 1 year residual • 3 - Slight Beneficial as Sessile Oak, Hazel and Alder to act as a future seed source for native woodland • 2 - Neutral establishment where this is currently absent or sparse to assist subsequent natural Of the 11 visual receptors, the predicted permanent level and duration of • 2 - None regeneration. This is underpinned by the Cornwall Design Review Panel who effect on completion 1 year after planting has been assessed as follows: The residual long term visual effects, after 15 years, are predicted to have endorsed the aspirational design approach which provides an elevated level • 9 - Neutral be Substantial to Slight Beneficial on 7 of the key visual receptors with of grace and dignity to funeral proceedings and offers the opportunity to be a • 2 - None The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 7 project of ‘national’ if not ‘international’ design quality. 2.0 2. Introduction
2.1. Background 2.4. Report Structure
Lavigne Lonsdale Ltd. was appointed by The Atlantic View Crematorium the development is amended and improved by successive stages of Chapter 1: Executive Summary Consortium, via The Bazeley Partnership in 2019 to prepare a full planning refinement in response to a growing understanding of environmental and Chapter 2: Introduction application at Land at Poundstock, Coppathorne, near Bude for a new baseline issues. It also helps to ensure that where necessary, appropriate Crematorium Facility. and effective mitigation is embedded into the scheme from the outset Chapter 3: Project Description - this sets out the context and nature of (‘primary mitigation’), as well as being considered and factored in as the The site is 5.7ha (14.085 acres) in size, located off the A39, adjacent to the the proposed development. It describes the site location and setting, the scheme evolves (‘secondary mitigation’). Opportunities for landscape hamlet of Coppathorne, approximately 1.3km south-east of Widemouth evolution of the scheme through dialogue with CC and HE, the final design enhancement have also been identified i.e. improving the landscape of Bay and 5km due south of Bude, Cornwall. and the mitigation measures that have provided the basis for the LVIA. the site beyond its baseline condition. This is not a formal requirement but The site comprises three fields laid to pasture, divided by hedge banks with offers the opportunity to bring about positive benefits ie. improved land Chapter 4: Methodology - this provides clear guidance on the approach sparse vegetation. The A39 runs along the site’s eastern boundary linking management; enhancement of habitats and other valued features; and the taken to assess the landscape and visual effects, specific terminology, the site to Bude to the north and Camelford to the south. The Widemouth creation of new landscape, habitat and recreational areas. methodology and criteria used. Road runs along the southern boundary providing a connection to Recommendations for the various mitigation measures, and the Chapter 5: Legislation, Policy and Guidance - this sets out the latest Widemouth Bay and a connection to Bude via the coastal route. opportunities identified for landscape and visual enhancements, are set out national, regional and local planning policy relevant to the site and in this report. surroundings. 2.2. Objectives 2.3. Pre-Application Advice Chapter 6: Landscape Baseline - this describes the existing landscape and The purpose of this LVIA is to assess and evaluate the likely landscape environmental resources of the site and surrounding area through desktop effects and likely visual effects of the proposed development on the site An initial Pre-Application meeting was carried out in March 2018 with studies and surveys in the field. It includes the landscape planning context and surrounding environment and those who use it. It is an important Cornwall Council’s (CC) Planning Case Officer, Helen Blacklock. This was for the site, with a review of the key designations and the current planning working tool which is used to inform and guide the design of the followed up with a formal written response from Cornwall Council which policies and guidance relevant to the proposed development. development. identified that there is no specific policy on new crematoriums. However It includes an evaluation of the baseline landscape character and condition This assessment is not intended to form part of an Environmental as it is deemed a large scale development it should be located within an of the site and surroundings including levels of quality, susceptibility to Statement (EIA process). It is intended to contribute to the appraisal of the accessible location which is well connected and related to the existing change and value. Judgements are made on the level of sensitivity of the development proposals to be submitted for a full planning application. built form of identified towns. It confirmed that as the site is not adjacent landscape resources as ‘receptors’ that are likely to experience change. to any settlement the application would need to be supported by a robust This LVIA has been carried out in accordance with published guidance, Business case which provides evidence of a need for such a facility within Chapter 7: Visual Baseline - this identifies, describes and assesses existing in particular Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment this area. Whilst the site lies outside any designated landscape, given the views and the visual amenity of the site and surrounding area. The extent of (commonly referred to as ‘GLVIA3’ – see also Chapter 2 Process and setting of the AONB, Heritage Coast and AGLV, the application would visibility of the site within the context of the wider landscape is determined, Method). need to be supported by a detailed and robust LVIA, the findings of which key viewpoints and visual receptors are described, and judgements about should be used to influence the layout and design process. levels of visual quality, receptor susceptibility to change, visual value and In paras. 4.5 – 4.10, GLVIA3 emphasises the importance of a landscape-led receptor sensitivity are also provided. and iterative approach to the design process. Para. 4.7 states: Lavigne Lonsdale tried to consult with Cornwall Council’s Landscape Officer to determine and agree the scope and methodology of the LVIA and key Chapter 8: Landscape + Visual Effects - Judgements are made on the ‘Landscape professionals should be involved as early as possible in this landscape and visual receptors to be assessed. However the replacement magnitude of effects arising from the proposed development on specific iterative approach to ensure that the likely landscape and visual effects of a Planning Officer, James Hills, did not think that the Council would involve a proposal play an important part in the evolution of a development proposal. landscape and visual receptors. An assessment of effects on landscape This is good practice, as it allows analysis of the landscape and visual dedicated landscape officer on the project. character and visual amenity which are likely to arise as a result of the character of a site and its context, and approaches to siting and design, to proposed development are explained, with judgements and conclusions We have therefore used our professional judgement in determining the minimise possible landscape and visual effects early in the process. set out. visual receptors and confirm that our methodology is thorough and fully Projects may otherwise progress to a stage where the opportunity to minimise compliant with GLVIA3. Mitigating measures and enhancements which form an integral part of the effects can no longer be realized by the time the landscape professional scheme are described, and recommendations for additional measures are becomes involved. It is better to get the siting and design right first than to provided. rely on costly mitigation measures. Early involvement also allows opportunities for landscape enhancement to be identified before the design has progressed The landscape effects and the visual effects are assessed separately to too far.’ reflect the distinction between the two components of a LVIA. An iterative design process is the process by which the design of
8 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 2.0
Bude
Marhamchurch
Bude Meadows Widemouth Widemouth Bay TouringPark Bay Holiday Village
The Site
Poundstock
Widemouth Bay Figure 2.1 : Site Location Plan Caravan Park Coppathorne
Week St. Mary
Camelford
Figure 2.1 : Strategic Site Location Plan (OS Map 1:25000) Figure 2.1 : Aerial Map and Red Line Boundary (1:5000)
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 9 3.0
3. Project Description
3.1. Site Location
The site is located immediately adjacent to the A39 Wadebridge to Bude main road, National Grid Reference SS 20941 00828. It covers an area of approximately 5.7ha (14.085 acres) in size.
This is a semi-rural area with the nearby coastal settlement of Widemouth Bay 1.3km to the north-west and the hamlet of Coppathorne immediately east of the A39 and the site. Poundstock lies 1.5km south, south west of the site. There are a number of villages and holiday parks /camp sites in the vicinity. The large town of Bude lies 5km to the north, Camelford lies 20km to the south west and Launceston lies 20km to the south-east. 3.2. Site Description
The site comprises three fields divided by two Cornish hedge banks bisecting the site east to west and Cornish hedge banks bounding the north and north west boundaries. These hedge banks vary in condition and have sparse vegetation. The mid-western boundary is a dense, tall species- rich hedgerow. The south-western and southern hedgerow is managed and species-poor. The eastern boundary is in cutting and embankment with hedge and post and rail fence - a likely result of the A39 road construction.
The A39 is predominantly elevated above the site which enables views across the site and the coastal areas beyond when travelling along the road.
The site is currently laid to grass and cut for silage.
There is a 20m fall from south to north across the site and 2-5m fall east to west. The lowest point of the site is in the north-western corner at a height of 58.00m AOD. The site in the south eastern corner is at 76.5m AOS+D and the junction of the A39 with Widemouth Road is set higher at 78m AOD.
Site boundary
Figure 3.1 : Site Location: The Wider Study Area
10 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
3.3. Wider Study Area
The Wider Study Area is the area within which possible views of the site and the proposed development are tested and is determined by the Existing Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI), desk top analysis of contour and vegetation data and field observation.
The scale of the Wider Study Area, as shown in Figure 3.2, is 1:25,000. This is such that it shows sufficient contextual information to provide a detailed understanding of the wider issues relevant to this assessment.
Figure 3.1 : Site Location: The Wider Study Area Figure 3.2 : Site Location: Wider Study Area Determined by ZVI The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 11 3.0
3.4. Active Study Area
Figure 3.3 shows the Active Study Area extents which have been defined by the Proposed Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI). This is at a scale of 1:12,500.
It takes in the area of high ground to the north of Widemouth Bay, extends approximately 1km east of the site and takes in the area of high ground by Penhale Farm south west of the site that lies within the AONB.
Figure 3.3 : Site Location: Active Study Area ZVI
12 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
3.5. Site and Surrounds
Figure 3.4 shows the extents of the Site and Surrounds that have been subject to a finer grain of study, with the extents defining the local context of the site and its relationship to Coppathorne and the immediate surroundings. This is at a scale of 1:5,000.
Figure 3.4 : Site Location: Site and Surrounds The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 13 3.0
3.6. Proposed Development
3.6.1. Access Widemouth Road Memorial Landscape Species-rich SuDS pond Access onto the site is proposed along the southern boundary of Access road cut as ‘Ha-Ha’ to screen views of Proposed hedge bank to Widemouth Road at a level of circa 73.00m AOD. vehicles from A39 enclose parking Hedge reinforcement and native mix Gravelled overflow /Memorial parking The threshold entry into the site has been set back from Widemouth Road planting to provide a welcome gateway, framed by a grove of trees, shrubs, species- Wildflower grassland Memorial Garden (flower and wreaths area) rich grassland and Cornish hedge bank to provide a sense of arrival and Recessed mark the start of the ‘Procession’ to the Crematorium. entrance Crematorium building with grass roof A new bus stop/shelter and localised junction works are proposed to Reflection pool provide safe egress and exit from the site. A footpath from the bus stop is Framed views down provided into the site at the main entrance. the valley There is currently no public access or Public Rights of Way on or adjacent to the site. 3.6.2. Built Form
The vision of the proposed design is to create a series of ‘places’ and ‘thresholds’ - a beginning, a middle and an end - that support the events Species-rich and emotions experienced by those sharing in ‘the ceremony of good bye’. SuDS pond
This has been realised by drawing upon principles established in ancient barrow burial sites to create a building that is rooted and set into the land - horizontal in form to reflect the horizontal north Cornish landscape - where the horizontal roof plane ‘floats’ above a contoured bunded landscape.
Staff/admin parking 3.6.3. Supporting Ancillary Facilities Provision of footpath and Bus Stop Meeting/gathering space The Crematorium is supported by the following ancillary facilities: A39 Large monolith stones • Memorial Gardens and Memorial Garden Visitor Car Park used as wayfinding features
• Crematorium Ceremony Spaces Potentially replace hedge with Cornish hedge bank Existing break in hedge bank • Crematorium Visitors Car Park demarked by monolith stones • Administrative Offices and Meeting Space Cortege route and service access Stone faced bank • WC’s for Crematorium visitors and staff Permeable parking connected to SuDs ponds (pending eng. advice) • Staff Welfare and Changing Spaces Native-mix planting and tree groups atop tilted Stone faced bank edge • Reception, Book of Remembrance, Ashes Storage and Collection ground plane to obscure views from the A39 Space Existing dense woodland to highway Subtle bunding and planting to screen • Service Yard and Staff Car Parking parking Figure 3.5 : Proposed Masterplan
14 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
Figure 3.6 : Bird’s Eye view/Axonometric of the Masterplan
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 15 3.0
The A39 is predominantly elevated above the site providing views across 3.6.4. Landscape Design and Planting site and beyond to the coast. The elevation of road varies along its Planting will be naturalistic incorporating native grass/wildflower grassland length from approximately 1-2m. to the ground and green roof of the Crematorium, together with native shrub and tree planting. One of the overriding aims has been to establish a landscape framework that integrates the sites natural features and E Cornish hedge banks that provide shelter, help to define spaces and The middle field (Field 2) is a naturally low plateau with views out along a F provide a sense of place. They also provide wildlife habitats /linear natural valley to the coast. The north G corridors and form part of the landscape framework to the development. field (Field 3) offers a low point with Field 3 potential for SUDS interventions. H The landscape design sensitively incorporate native trees and naturalised planting to enhance the landscape character and reflect the natural characteristics of the semi-rural setting. B B1 The landscape design and planting has been sympathetically designed to filter and screen views, provide a sensitive sense of arrival and give orientation guidance to visitors. It effectively breaks up the distinction between the built and natural landscape, incorporates a Memorial Field 2 D Landscape for quiet contemplation and greatly enhances biodiversity.
The landscape provides an integral structure to how the various spaces C are used and defined and establishes a cohesive and holistic landscape character that seamlessly knits together the development with its setting. B Key consideration has been given to: B1
• The semi-natural landscape character and natural topography of Field 1 the site A
• The existing Cornish hedge banks which are assets to the site and provide immediate maturity and wildlife habitats
• Key views of the coastline from the site
• Minimizing views of the proposed development from the elevated A39 whilst maintaining views across the site to the coast VP • Views from publicly accessible areas within the nearby AONB and AGLV
• Views from the South West Coastal Path, Key Viewpoints and Public Rights of Way Access is proposed off Widemouth Road at a level of circa 73.00AOD. 3.7. Iterative Design Process The site is elevated by around 1.5m and limited retention The development has been landscape-led from the outset and informed and grading will be required. by the findings of the LVIA. An iterative process has been taken in developing the proposals that has embedded mitigation measures and Stage 2: Initial Spatial Sequence designed out adverse effects. These measures are defined as Primary Stage 1: Access + Levels Mitigation Measures and are set out in 3.9.
The evolution of the design is illustrated in Figure 3.7. Figure 3.7 : Design Evolution: Stage 1 and 2
16 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
3.7.1. Initial Spatial Sequencing
Access onto the site will be from the south field. A view from the A39 across this field to the coast has been identified (VP) and the proposals will look to maintain this relationship and visual link. Field 1 (A) is seen as a ‘quiet’ transition space and lane or driveway leading visitors from roadside to the facility. This could be used sympathetically as a moment of calm readiness to provide a sensitive sense of arrival. Access could be dug into the field (a Ha-Ha) to help bed-in and screen the road from the A39 whilst maintaining uninterrupted, open views out to the wider coastal landscape.
The existing hedge banks which run east to west and divide the fields (B) provide a natural break /entry transition point which the design could utilise (B1).
Field 2 (C) has a low western boundary with a view out to the coast along a shallow valley. However intervening vegetation hampers the wider valley view and visual connections to the coast. This middle area offers space for a more public area of remembrance and could combine a memorial landscape with ecological habitat creation, pond (SUDS area (D) to help draw on life-cycle narratives. It is felt that Field 3 would be best suited to a form of development (E) being both away from existing dwellings and set within a natural dip in the landscape, in a central site location with a backdrop of existing vegetated hedge bank. This position provides a view down through the valley and open sky out to the coast. The field falls circa 4-5m east to west boundary. The built form will make use of natural levels sited in the lower plateau. The building will include landscape treatment, to envelope and soften built mass, grounding it into the landscape. Integration of building design and landscape will help reduce visual impact in the wider and immediate setting.
The facility will require a sense of arrival (F) and orientation for visitors whilst maintaining the landscape as an integral structure to how these spaces are defined and enveloped.
Parking and procession vehicles will need to be accommodated close to the facility (G) with level access for all. Parking could be formed and integrated into the landscape with the use of new hedge banks and planting to help screen views from the A39. These could link back to existing features. A planted boundary (H) would further help shelter and address these areas from the east and help introduce some shelter to the site for more comprehensive planting and ecological gain.
Stage 3: Existing Landscape Interventions / Spatial Definition
Figure 3.6 : Design Evolution: Stage 3
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 17 3.0
14 Existing Landscape Interventions / Spatial Definition
The site is enclosed by Cornish hedge banks to the north and west boundaries. These vary in condition and vegetation and are supported by 11 full Ecological surveys (refer to Code 7 Ecological Assessment).
There are two further remnant hedge banks which bisect the site east to 13 west. These are of low ecological interest and host little vegetation, but 10 offer natural boundaries with the potential for ecological improvement. It appears these were severed to the east to form the A39. There are existing 9 7 field access breaks along their length. 8 The east and south boundary comprise a hedge planted against a post and rail fence. Opening and breaks have been formed for access. The hedge is well maintained but some sections are missing or failed. The proposal 9 4 seeks to replace this with a Cornish hedge bank. 6 8 The site offers an opportunity to work with the existing hedge bank 13 network to re-establish hedge banks which have been damaged, severed or isolated. 12 The site has been used for pasture and agricultural uses which returns a fairly low ecological value and it is felt much can be done to improve the site’s biodiversity. Native and boundary reinforcement planting would contribute to this as part of an integral landscape/ecological enhancement 5 strategy.
Shelter created by existing and new hedge banks will enable more successful tree group, shrub and under storey planting and help define spaces. 3 A bund to the east boundary could offer further useful shelter and opportunity to play with levels and screen views. This also gives a useful back edge to the site that can be planted to create new habitats and increase the biodiversity of the site.
The lower section of Field 2 is considered a more gentle area which could form part of a memorial landscape. The lowest point of the site may be a 1 3 suitable location for a pond/ water body as part of the integrated SuDS 2 strategy. This could be used to create a new species-rich wetland habitat 15 and a destination / focus point.
The hedge leading up to the entry to site could be replaced with a Cornish hedgebank which offers greater ecological benefit and a more permanent boundary. It is proposed that the arrival point will include stonework and entrance that is in keeping with the character of the site and setting.
Stage 4: Landscape Strategy
Figure 3.7 : Design Evolution: Stage 4: Landscape Strategy 18 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
1 Main vehicular and pedestrian entrance to site 1 2 New Bus Stop and Shelter
2 3 Access Road and path gently meander through pasture
3 4 Memorial gardens with circular walk, pond and views of the ocean 4 5 Memorial gardens and visitor/over-flow ceremony car park
6 Main ceremony visitors car park 8 Processional route into crematorium with views to the ocean 5 7 8 Ceremony exit and wreath courtyard 7 9 9 Staff and servicing area 6
Figure 3.8 : Final Masterplan
Figure 3.7 : Design Evolution: Stage 4: Landscape Strategy Figure 3.9 : Long Section The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 19 3.0
3.7.2. Architectural Concept
Barrow concept: association with ancient burial traditions and low visual BARROW ARRANGEMENT DIAGRAM 2 BARROW ARRANGEMENT DIAGRAM 5 BARROW ARRANGEMENT DIAGRAM 3
recessed passages 1:500 @ A3 1:500 @ A3 1:500 @ A3 linking separated barrow formations. ROUTES ROUTES ROUTES
impact by integrating with the landscape. N N N mourners mourners mourners
cortege cortege cortege
hearse hearse hearse
administrative visitors administrative visitors administrative visitors
staff staff staff CAR PARK VIEWS 3 deliveries deliveries deliveries VIEWS BUILDINGS BUILDINGS BUILDINGS Site arrangement options: 4 2 1. waiting space 1. waiting space 4 VIEWS 1. waiting space 2. ceremony space 2. ceremony space 2. ceremony space GARDENS Barrow concept 3. cremator 1 3. cremator 3. cremator 4. admin 4. admin 5 4. admin 5. grounds 5. grounds 5. grounds 4 3 2 2 GARDEN 1
STAFF CAR PARK
CAR PARK 3 1 s c r e e n in g Architectural 5
s c r e e n in g BARROW ARRANGEMENT DIAGRAM 2 BARROW ARRANGEMENT DIAGRAM 5 BARROW ARRANGEMENT DIAGRAM 3 SK300 SERIES - BARROW CONCEPT ANALYSIS SK300 SERIES - BARROW CONCEPT ANALYSIS SK300 SERIES - BARROW CONCEPT ANALYSIS ROUTES NEW CREMATORIUM - POUNDSTOCK THE BAZELEY PARTNERSHIP THE BAZELEY PARTNERSHIP mourners THE BAZELEY PARTNERSHIP BARROW ARRANGEMENT 3 FLOOR PLAN [email protected] [email protected] coffin to be [email protected] down page 16 cortege into committal area below, page 23 page 19 cremator and associated spaces hearse SK304 al located beneath ceremony 1:100@ A1 concepts administrative visitors space.
staff VIEWS N deliveries
bunding Barrow Concept – low visual impact lectern catafalque bunding gardens
ceremony space - seating circa by integrating with landscape 170 persons on pews shown
staff room
kitchen Associations with prehistoric burial wc wc catafalque staff and administrative wc Architectural visitors car parking traditions staff offices lectern Architecturalconcepts bunding audio reception & Barrow Concept – low visual impact Preferred concept visual smaller ceremony space by integrating with landscape vestry book of remembrance SMALLER CEREMONY SPACE concepts ARRANGEMENT Associations with prehistoric burial traditions
porte Barrow Concept – low visualPreferred impact concept cochere
wc's by integrating with landscape bunding bunding
ceremonial walkway niches for private reflection Associations with prehistoric burial
crematoria mourners car parking SK304 - BARROW ARRANGEMENT 3 FLOOR PLAN CONCEPT SK300 SERIES - BARROW CONCEPT ANALYSIS THE BAZELEY PARTNERSHIP Precedent sketches: Barrow concept Initial section sketches: Barrow concept [email protected] sketch floor plan: Barrow concept traditions page 25
Preferred concept
Figure 3.09 : Architectural Concept (The Bazeley Partnership)
20 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
3.7.3. Building Layout
The main Crematorium area is contained within the peninsular shape of the site’s hedgerow (refer to broken orange line on the diagram to the right). This area is 1. The Lodge building which accommodates screened and contained from the rest of the site by a the administrative offices, WCs, cremators, curved bunded wall (please refer to solid orange line on book of remembrance staff welfare, etc. the diagram to the right). Where this curved wall over-laps with the hedg-rows it creates key access points for the 2. Wreath Courtyard contemplation service yard and post-ceremony visitor exit to the east and spaces and post ceremony WCs. 1 west respectively (please refer to the pink asterisks on the 3 diagram to the right). 3. The Ceremony Building which accommodates 2 ceremony spaces, This enables a carefully controlled threshold to be created vestry, AV room and viewing room. * by breaking the wall at the centre to provide the main pedestrian access to the Crematorium (please refer to the Further detail on how visitors access and move blue asterisk on the diagram to the right). through the main Crematorium is provided on the following page. The main Ceremony building is orientated (see pink arrow) to the north west, to align with a view of the Atlantic framed by the gently slopping landscape. Please see photo to the right. The hedgerow and curved wall embrace the main * Crematorium buildings which are formed by 3 principle 2 building masses (please refer to the blue shaded areas on the diagram to the right). These are described as follows: *
N
Proposed site plan of core facilities
Figure 3.10 : Building Layout (Bazeley Partnership)
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 21 N +56.25 m Goods yard
Lift Lobby
Goods In nel Pa itch Sw
sing ces pro Ash 0m 4m 8m 12m 16m 20m
Heat Exchanger +59.50 m VISUAL SCALE 1:200 @ A1 R Dust filter
Plant Cremator
AC Filter Charging Machine Cremation Hall Committal Room F Staff Ch
AC Filter DFW 6000 Automatic charging machine
D Staff Ch Dustfilter
Store Staff Room Heat M Staff Ch exchanger Ash processing Cremulator table
Switch Ash pan cabinet panel
Sunken Garden Sunken Garden
L. Coffin Rec
3.0 S. Coffin Rec.
Proposed Basement Floor Proposed L. Ground Floor 3.7.4. Building Scale 1 1 : 200 2 1 : 200 The proposed Lodge building contains the cremators and their flues. These flues are shown in the aerial 3D inset shown to the right and are set within a flue enclosure. +66.15 m Goods yard The design seeks to keep the flue height within the silhouette of the building to keep their visual impact to a minimum. The technical Air Quality
nel Cremator flues Pa itch report which accompanies this application has validated the height of Sthew +65.05 m g flues. ssin ce pro Ash TBP NOTES
Each cremator requires an individual set of flues which are as follows:Heat Exchanger THE DESIGNS AND ALL INFORMATION IN THE DRAWING ARE COPYRIGHT OF TBP AND MAY Staff Entrance NOT BE USED AMENDED COPIED OR REPRODUCED IN PART OR FULL FOR ANY PURPOSE Dust filter Coolers FROM ANY SOURCE WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN APPROVAL OF TBP Cremator THE DRAWING IS TO BE USED SOLELY FOR THE INTENDED PURPOSE. THE ARCHITECT - Cremator flues: Post-filtration emissions from the cremation process. ACCEPTS NO LIABILITY & RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS ARISING THROUGH MISUSE AC Filter Charging Machine Required to strictly comply with statutory emissions criteria. THE DRAWINGS ARE NOT BE USED FOR ANY THIRD PARTY AGREEMENTS / CONTRACTS Office Bypass flues WITHOUT EXPRESS CONSENT OF THE ARCHITECT Reception CONTRACTORS MUST CHECK ALL DIMENSIONS ON SITE. ONLY FIGURED DIMENSIONS ARE TO BE WORKED FROM. TAKE SITE DIMENSIONS FOR ALL FABRICATION WORK REFER ALL +61.50 m DISCREPANCIES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO THE ARCHITECT - Bypass flues: Used only in an emergency situation AC Filter Store FOR CLARIFICATION OR INSTRUCTION BEFORE PUTTING WORK IN HAND DFW 6000 Automatic charging machine Meeting F. WC Dustfilter - Coolers: No emissions, heat exchangers which release excess heat which REVISON is in excess to that which can be recycled into the building. D WC The Bazeley Partnership Chartered Architects Heat M WC F WC exchanger Viewing Room D WC Aerial 3D view showing flues Extract of roof plan showing flues labelled Ash processing Efford Farm Business Park Cremulator table Vicarage Road, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 Switch Bk of Rem Ash pan panel 8LT The two vents shown on the northern elevation are forcabinet air intake only. M WC T: 01288 355557 F: 01288 355826 E: [email protected] W: www.bazeley-architects.com
CLIENT
+66.55 m Atlantic View Crematorium Family Room +67.00 m Consortium PROJECT
Viewing Vestry AV Atlantic View Crematorium
Lobby DRAWING Proposed Floor and Roof L. Ceremony Plans Scale As noted Sheet
Date Oct '20 Drawn jc
DRAWING No.
F WC M WC Wreath Courtyard 18007 A-03-202 - P5
THE Proposed U. Ground Floor Proposed Roof Plan BAZELEY Proposed north west elevation3 showing1 : 200 flue enclosure to the left Proposed north elevation showing4 flue1 :enclosure 200 to the right with ceremony building in the background PARTNERSHIP SCALE 1:1 100mm This drawing is copyright
Figure 3.11 : Proposed Building Scale (Bazeley Architects)
22 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
3.7.5. Building Appearance
The appearance of the proposed buildings and how they sit within the landscape has been carefully considered.
The exterior elevations of the lodge and surrounding buildings are proposed to be clad in random sand-stone sourced from a local quarry. The walls will be made up of a range of stone sizes including very large stones set into the plane of the walls at their base which are gently angled back away from the vertical to firmly route them into the landscape. The landscape then wraps over these buildings to provide the green roof.
The proposal is that these externals walls are left deliberately rugged and un-worked. This will blend with the proposed green roofs and banks and make Proposed south west elevation soft lodge building Sketch of proposed large stones set into rubble wall the buildings ‘of the place’ and create ground-hugging bunds and screens.
The ground-hugging bunds of the support spaces surround and frame the Ceremony Building and act as the foil to enable it to be more formal and ‘man-made’ in contrast to the natural bunds.
This supports the metaphor of death as a natural process and cremation as an artificial one.
The battered stone walls of the Ceremony Building will be built of the same stone as used in the rest of the site, but geometrically cut as elongated stretchers with deep struck horizontal joints.
Local sand-stone Proposed south east elevation of Lodge and Ceremony Building
Figure 3.152 : Proposed Building Appearance (Bazeley Architects)
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 23 3.0
3.7.6. The Landscape Strategy 3.8. Supporting Assessments The landscape strategy draws upon the known design constraints and Other supporting assessments and surveys have informed the LVIA and • A single entry/exit access at the low point of the southern boundary, opportunities outlined in the previous diagrams and chapters. It is an development of the proposals. These include the following: offset from Widemouth Road to provide a welcome threshold informed starting point as a concept diagram to explore how the identified and sense of arrival, minimises ground modeling and reduces the development principles could be successfully integrated onto this site. • Topographical Survey visibility of the new access road and vehicles from the A39 It does not provide the built form or suggest how this can be designed but does form a structure which can be used to define and fully integrate • Hedgerow Assessment - carried out by Code 7 Ecology • The access road is set in cutting, employing the effective use of a architectural response with landscape and ecological interventions: Ha-Ha on the southern side. This is a recessed landscape design • Ecological Surveys - carried out by Code 7 Ecology element, notably a battered Cornish stone wall barrier which allows 1. Safe access onto site - provision of junction onto highway. • Flood Risk Assessment, Drainage/SuDS Strategy - carried out by for the ‘tilting’ of ground levels adjacent to the A39 and effectively 2. Provision of bus stop and footway into site. John Grimes Partnership Ltd. screens views of the road ,vehicles and car parking from the A39 whilst preserving an uninterrupted view of the landscape beyond. 3. Access cut into field as ‘Ha-Ha’ to maintain views over field to • Highways and Civils - carried out by Jim Holt Ltd. coast from A39. (see design section opposite). Creating a journey 3.9. Primary Mitigation Measures 4. Boundary reinforcement planting to existing hedge banks to • The vision is to create a series of ‘places’ and ‘thresholds’ - a sequential journey with a beginning, a middle and an end - that increase ecological habitat areas and provide shelter to The primary mitigation measures which have been designed into the supports the events and emotions experienced by those sharing in larger species planting. scheme as an iterative part of the design process. the ceremony of goodbye. This is achieved by creating three main 5. Gateway to facility via existing hedge bank. The overarching ambition of the scheme is to have minimal impact on its elements within a series of special spaces that are linked by a primary surrounds, reflecting the sensitivity of the wider environment and proximity processional route. 6. Bund planting to east to provide shelter to planting and filter to the Pentire Point to Widemouth Bay Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty views from A39. • The first part of the journey/ procession begins at the entrance and the Week St. Mary Area of Great Landscape Value. - using a defined welcome threshold and moves into a serene, 7. Parking to be enveloped by hedge banks and planting to define The proposal is a sensitively designed building which is integrated into meadow landscape; The second threshold, marked by the existing and enclose spaces. Hedge banks used to attach back and mend the wider rural landscape, with a focus on enhancing the biodiversity Cornish hedge and monolith standing stones, moves into an area of severed existing hedge banks. and ecological value of the site. A peaceful memorial garden will also be informal parkland with a Memorial Garden for quiet contemplation and framed views beyond to the destination space - the Ceremony 8. Parking hedge bank used to filter and screen views. created to offer people the opportunity for quiet contemplation in a place of tranquillity and support, with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Building - the final threshold. Here there is a main visitor car park 9. Surface areas to be SuDS features to deal with surface run off with a separate road for cortège vehicles which arrives at the formal on site (permeable surfaces and swales). Landscape Character entrance to the building. The projecting roof creates a gathering space for mourners and provides shelter for the arrival of the hearse. 10. Built form to incorporate sense of arrival and give orientation • Responding to the characteristics of the landscape character to The processional route is concluded upon entering the Ceremony guidance to visitors. enhance the areas local distinctiveness and reinforce the unique building where visitors are greeted with an open view of the ocean. characteristics of the Bude Basin Landscape Character Area CA38 11. Built form to take advantage at head of shallow valley and views and the local landscape characteristics of the site and setting. • Equally the return journey has been sensitively considered after the out to coast and low plateau to help with built form and massing service, with a reflective pool centred on views beyond to the sea, impact. Topography and architectural language formal gardens and a wreath garden. On leaving after the ceremony, the journey graduates from the more formal setting of the Ceremony 12. Memorial Landscape within middle field - possibility to play with • Responding to the natural contours of the site, sensitively siting the Building, through the semi-informal contemplative Memorial levels and mounding to provide interest and view points. proposed facility at the low point on the site so that it is rooted in the landscape. Gardens to the gentle, pastoral landscape on leaving the site. 13. Pond (SuDS) feature to offer valuable wetland habitat and • Monumental stones are used at the natural breaks in the Cornish focus. • The architectural nature of the single-storey building takes its inspiration and form from the ancient long barrow burial sites, Hedges along the route of the road to define the transition between 14. Potential under grounding of overhead lines. integrating ground hugging bunds with a floating plane of the green thresholds and act as wayfinding markers. roof structure that unifies the entrance, porte corchere, gathering Existing views 15. Potential improvements to wider footpath network. space and ceremony spaces. • Protecting and retaining uninterrupted views out from the A39 and • The flue has been integrated into the proposed building structure to the site westwards to the coast. avoid vertical projection above the roof line • Considering nearby views from users of the A39, nearby residents 24 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.0
3.9.1. Secondary Mitigation Measures/Ecological Enhancements
and users of scenic roads to minimise views of the proposed • Woodland Mix Planting Blocks: North Cornwall palette - UK • Hedgerows in moderate to poor condition will benefit from additional development. provenance. Substantial blocks of native woodland planting and bolster planting and management to improve, species-diversity, longevity understorey with open glades. Trees and shrubs to be planted in and condition • Considering views of the area from visitor destinations, dedicated groups and under-planted with shade tolerant grass mix species viewpoints on the coast, the South West Coastal Path, public rights (Emorsgate EW1 - shady ground flora mix). • A Landscape and Ecological Management Plan to demonstrate how of way and the nearby Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. habitats and green spaces will be managed in the long-term and ensure • Tree & Shrub Mix: mixed age (60-90cm main block groups with light the vision for the development is sustainably maintained Exemplar approach to landscape design, planting and biodiversity feathered / 8-10cm standard in groups throughout mix; • Retaining and re-establishing the existing hedge banks on site • The development offers an opportunity to improve the site for wildlife (60-90cm transplants at 1m centres in a random grid. Quercus light and deliver a biodiversity net gain, in line with national and local planning which have been damaged, severed or isolated. These are typically feathered / 8-10cm standards in groups through out mix). characteristic of the site and setting, provide shelter, help to define guidance. Potential biodiversity enhancements, additional to the mitigation spaces and provide a sense of place. They also provide wildlife (Oak) Quercus petraea 20%; (Hawthorn) Cratagegus monogyna and compensation measures, include native tree and shrub planting , habitats /linear corridors and form an integral part of the landscape 15%; (Goat willow) Salix caprea 20%; (Grey willow) Salix cinerea species-rich grassland and species-rich damp/wetland areas to SuDs framework to the development. 20%; (Hazel) Corylus avellana 5%; (Elder) Sambucus nigra features. 5%; (Holly) Ilex aquifolium 5%; (Field maple) Acer campestre 5%; • Timing construction works to avoid disturbance to protected species. • Sensitively incorporate native trees and naturalised planting (Spindle) Euonymus europaeus 5%. to enhance the landscape character and reflect the natural • A Construction Environmental Management Plan to demonstrate measures characteristics of the rural setting. • Tree Planting to car park and individual trees in hard landscaped to protect the site, surrounding habitats and the nearby Tintagel- areas/courtyards: Selected Standard trees for parking areas (8-10, Marshland-Clovelly Coast Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Boscatle • The landscape design and planting has been sympathetically 10-12, 12-14cm) 2x transplanted, RB. - planted as an Oak Grove. designed to filter and screen views, provide a sensitive sense to Widemouth Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). of arrival and give orientation guidance to visitors. It effectively Trees in hard landscape, or adjacent highways - Quercus petraea; - • Lighting - The entrance to the development site will be lit to adoptable breaks up the distinction between the built and natural landscape, Quercus ilex (individual trees in hard paved areas); Prunus standards with low-level lighting on the internal roadway and an incorporates a Memorial Landscape for quiet contemplation and padus ‘Waterei’ (for enclosed sunken courtyards - semi mature appropriate lighting plan for bats that includes ‘no light’ areas along the greatly enhances biodiversity. multistem (3stems min) - 20-25 equivalent. commuting routes (existing foraging hedge lines) and provision of green • The landscape provides an integral structure to how the various • Semi-ornamental grasses, shrubs and herbaceous to courtyards space foraging routes. spaces are used and establishes a cohesive and holistic landscape • Hedgebank: North Cornwall palette which includes all native tree • Timing site clearance to avoid disturbance to protected species and character that seamlessly knits together the development with its eradicating non-native invasive plants prior to site clearance. setting. and scrub species found in the existing hedges; Quercus petraea 20%; Corylus avellana 15%; Crataegus monogyna 15%; Sambucus 3.9.2. Standard Construction Practice Mitigation Measures • Working closely with the ecologists and sustainable drainage nigra 10%; Salix caprea 15%; Salix cinerea 15%; Prunus spinosa 10% consultants has ensured a fully integrated SuDS and ecology strategy embedded into the landscape, with existing features such as All as whips planted in two parallel rows at 5 stems per metre. The following mitigation measures will be implemented during construction: drainage ditches providing enhanced ecologically-rich habitats and • Pond / Wetland SuD’s Areas: planted in groups of 6-12 of the • A Construction Environmental Management Plan to demonstrate new features such as standing water ponds providing multifunctional same species @ 500ctrs; Salix caprea 60-90cm transplant (20%); Salix measures to protect the site and surrounding habitats: Refer to Ecology design, drainage and biodiversity benefits. cinerea 60-90cm transplant (20%); Carex pendula 3L (15%); Caltha Assessment. • Defra Metric calculations show that the scheme achieves a palustris 2L (15%); Butumus umbellatus 2L (10%); Iris pseudocorus 3L • The effects of construction activities on existing hedge banks, hedges biodiversity uplift of 31.95% for hedgerows and 116.57% biodiversity (10%); Juncus effusus 2L (10%). and vegetation: A Protection Strategy will be prepared and implemented gain (BG) for the habitats. These figures greatly exceed the 10% • Principal seed mixes - All Emorsgate – or an equivalent. UK in advance of construction commencing and enforced and monitored Biodiversity Gain requirement for both hedgerow units and habitat provenance ONLY. through a Construction and Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). units and shows that the proposal would potentially create a biodiversity hotspot in this area. EM8 – wet grassland for the main fields • The effect of construction activities on the existing soil resource: A EW1 – woodland ground flora used in open glades where there construction soil management plan will be implemented to direct soil Planting Mixes are scrub/oak woodland storage, to ensure that soil quality is conserved and direct reuse on • Note: Full planting details are set out in the Landscape Design EP1 – used for extending the ditches and around the fringes of reinstated areas. Access routes will be clearly defined, and tracked vehicles Strategy section of the DAS. This summarises the main planting open water. will be used to minimise ground compaction (and subsequent poor types and mixes. All plants are native species and UK provenance vegetation growth). only. • Green Roof: meadow grassroof - Emorsgate EM8 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 25 3.04.0 4. Methodology 4.1. Guidelines for Landscape + Visual Impact Assessment
This LVIA has been carried out in accordance with best practice as set out It is not only about landscapes that are recognised as being special and Landscape Areas of land identified as making a special contribution in the current, nationally recognised published guidance - regarded by the valuable, but also about the ordinary and everyday - the landscapes where Planning to the overall landscape character or visual quality of a landscape profession as the ‘industry standard’: people live and work, and spend their leisure time. Designations locality. Those of national importance are protected by • “Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment” (GLVIA), It is also clearly defined to include not only rural landscapes but also law and are known as statutory landscape designations. Landscape Institute/Institute of Environmental Management and seascapes and townscapes. Areas of regional or local importance are identified at Assessment, Third Edition, 2013. the local level (usually by the Planning Authority) and Landscape also includes ‘Green Infrastructure’ which includes networks are known as non-statutory landscape designations. • Consideration has also been given to: of green spaces, watercourses and water bodies that connect rural areas, Landscape The relative value or importance attached to a villages, towns and cities. Green Infrastructure is not separate from the Value landscape (often as a basis for designation or • “TGN 06/19 Visual Representations of development proposals”, landscape but part of it and LVIA will often need to address the effects recognition), which expresses national or local Landscape Institute, 2019. of development on green infrastructure as well as the potential the consensus about its quality. Special qualities may The GLVIA reflects current legislation and the professional experience development may offer to enhance it. include perceptual aspects such as scenic beauty, tranquillity, wildness or cultural/conservation gained by Chartered Landscape Architects over many years of undertaking The importance of the ELC definition is that it moves beyond the idea associations. landscape and visual assessments. that landscape is only a matter of aesthetics and visual amenity. Instead it Parameters A limit or boundary which defines the scope of a Professional judgement is a very important part of LVIA. Whilst there is encourages a focus on landscape as a resource in its own right. particular process or activity. some scope for quantitative measurement of objective matters i.e. number of trees lost, much of the assessment relies on qualitative judgements, for Perceptual A landscape may be valued for its perceptual qualities example - the effect of the introduction of a new development or land use aspects notably wildness and/or tranquillity. Impact The action being taken change may have on visual amenity, or the significance of change in the Photo- A visualisation which superimposes an image of a character of the landscape and whether it is positive or negative. Effect The result of the impact montage proposed development upon a photograph or series of Professional judgements are based upon training and experience and photographs. Landscape Individual components which make up the landscape such should be carried out by experienced landscape professionals. Ideally more Significance A measure of the importance or gravity of the than one person should be involved in the assessment to provide checks Elements as hills, valleys, woods, trees and hedges, ponds, buildings and roads. environmental effect, defined by significance criteria and balances, particularly in identifying the likely significant effects. It is specific to the environmental topic. essential that the methodology used is fully explained and transparent and Landscape A measure of the physical state of the landscape. the LVIA is carried out objectively. Condition Scenic quality A term to describe landscapes that appeal primarily to the senses (primarily but not wholly visual). Landscape These are distinct types of landscapes which are relatively 4.2. Definition of Terms Character homogeneous in character. They are generic in nature in Sensitivity A term applied to specific receptors, combining Types that they may occur in different areas in different parts of judgements of the susceptibility of the receptor to the LVIA is a tool used to identify and assess the significance of, and the the country, but, wherever they occur they share broadly specific type of change of the development proposed effects of change resulting from development on both the landscape as an similar combinations of geology, topography, drainage and the value related to that receptor. environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual patterns, vegetation and historical land use and settlement amenity. Susceptibility Ability of the receptor to accommodate the proposed pattern, and perceptual and aesthetic attributes. to change development without undue consequences for the The starting point is the recognition that ‘landscape’ is not some separate Landscape Effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right. maintenance of the baseline situation. topic from biodiversity or historic environment but is the collective term for Effects all the components that make up both countryside and built up areas. Landscape Particularly prominent or eye-catching elements, such as There are many terms used in a landscape assessment which are based on The European Landscape Convention (ELC) definition which is adopted Features geological features, built elements (for example church the word “visual”. in the GLVIA, 3rd edition 2013 guidance defines the inclusive nature of spires) or distinctive vegetation (tree groups, wooded landscape as: skylines). The individual terms that will be referred to throughout this assessment are set out overleaf: Landscape Defined aspect of the landscape resource that may have “an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action Receptor the potential to be affected by the proposal. and interaction of natural and /or human factors”.
26 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.04.0
4.3.2. Step-by-step process in assessing the Level of Effects TABLE A: Step-by-step process in assessing the Significance of Effects
A step-by-step process, as illustrated by Table A, shows the sequential approach taken to identifying both the level of landscape effects and visual Visual Effects on specific views and on the general visual amenity effects. The rationale for the overall judgement is intended to be clear and Effect experienced by people. For each transparent. effect/receptor
Sense of The essential character and ‘spirit’ of an area. identified Place Each effect is considered in terms of:
Sensitivity All visual receptors are people. Their sensitivity is assessed Sensitivity of the receptor based on judgments on: of Visual in terms of their susceptibility to a change in view/visual
Receptor amenity and also the value attached to the view. • Susceptibility of the receptor to type of change proposed and;
Visual The overall pleasantness of the views people enjoy of their Value attached to the receptor
Amenity surroundings, which provides an attractive visual setting Assess Assess Magnitude of the effect based on judgment on: Assess Assess Assess or backdrop for the enjoyment of activities of the people susceptibility value size/scale of durability of reversibility of receptor related to living, working, recreating, visiting or travelling through an • Size and scale of the effect effect effect of effect to specific receptor area. change • Geographical extent of the area affected Visual Tool to communicate the approximate areas where the site Envelope may be visible • Duration of the effect and its reversibility
Visual Individuals and/or defined groups of people who have the The next step is to combine the judgements on sensitivity and magnitude Receptors potential to be affected by a proposal. of change to determine the significance of effects. To ensure transparency the rationale is described as narrative and supported by the following
summary guidelines: Combine to assess Combine to assess 4.3. Assessment Stages sensitivity of magnitude of Landscape Effects - Table B: Guidelines for the Assessment of Landscape receptor effect
The initial step in an LVIA is to establish the baseline landscape and visual Sensitivity and Table C: Guidelines for the Assessment of Magnitude of conditions. The level of detail provided should be that which is reasonably Change. required to assess the likely significant effects. Visual Effects - Table D: Guidelines for the Assessment of Visual Receptor
It must clearly distinguish between the assessment of landscape effects Sensitivity and Table E: Guidelines for the Assessment of Magnitude of Combine to assess dealing with changes to the landscape as a resource, and the assessment of Visual Effects. significance of effect visual effects, dealing with changes to views and visual amenity. The rationale demonstrates:
Once the landscape baseline and visual baseline are established the significance of effects are assessed. The landscape effects and visual • how susceptibility to change and value together contribute to the Final statement of effects of the proposals are assessed separately at three stages of the sensitivity of the receptor; Significance of effects development: during construction, on completion and after 15 years. • how judgement about scale, extent and duration contribute to the magnitude of the effects; and 4.3.1. Determining the Study Area
• how the resulting judgements about sensitivity and magnitude are Assessing the Significance of Effects When establishing the study area the emphasis is on a reasonable combined to inform judgements about overall significance of effects. approach which is proportional to the scale and nature of the Proposed Development. The study area for the LVIA has been defined in accordance with GLVIA3 (Landscape Institute and institute of Environmental Management & Assessment, 2013). This advises that the study area should, “cover the site itself and its wider context, within which the Proposed Development may influence it in a significant manner”.
The extent of the study area for the assessment has been determined both through the site’s ‘theoretical visual envelope’, the ‘zone of visual influence/ visual envelope’ and the existing physical characteristics of the landscape. The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 27 3.04.0
4.4. Assessment Process 4.5.2. Sensitivity of Landscape Receptor TABLE B: Guidelines for the Assessment of Landscape Sensitivity
A detailed description of the methodology for evaluating the landscape The determination of landscape sensitivity (the nature of receptor likely to Sensitivity Description and visual effects is set out below. be affected) is an important part of the LVIA process. Sensitivity combined At the outset it is useful to reiterate the definition of the terms ‘landscape with magnitude of effect likely to occur, allows for an assessment the overall Very High Very highly valued with international and national level designated areas (e.g. World Heritage Sites, level of the landscape effects. National Parks, AONB’s, Registered Historic Parks and Gardens, Scheduled Monuments, Grade I or II* effects’ and ‘visual effects’: Listed Buildings, SSSI’s etc.) and is experienced by a high number of people where the quality of the landscape is likely to be the primary purpose of the visit. Exceptional aesthetic attributes with significant scenic quality and iconic views. • Landscape effects: Effects on the landscape as a resource in its own Determining the sensitivity of landscape receptors is based upon combining judgements of their susceptibility to the type of change or An important component of the country’s character with very rare and distinctive elements and features. right. Landscape condition is very good and maintained to a high standard. The landscape has elevated development proposed, and the value attached to the landscape. perceptual qualities and is highly valued for its wildness / remoteness and level of tranquility. No • Visual effects: Effects on specific views and on the general visual detracting features present. A landscape with a very low capacity to accommodate the type of Susceptibility to change development proposed, with components that cannot be replaced (e.g. ancient woodland, historic amenity experienced by people. parkland.
Susceptibility to change means the ability of the landscape receptor A landscape or component with a very high susceptibility/vulnerability to change. 4.5. Landscape Effects (whether it be the overall character or quality/condition of a particular High Highly valued with regional or county level designated areas (e.g. Areas of Great Landscape Value landscape type or area, or an individual element and /or feature, or a (AGLV), Green Belt, Country Parks, Grade II Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas etc.) and An assessment of Landscape Effects considers how the proposal will particular aesthetic and perceptual aspect) to accommodate the proposed experienced by many people where the quality of the landscape is likely to be one of the main reasons for the visit. affect the components that make up the landscape, often referred to as development without undue consequences for the maintenance of the landscape receptors. High aesthetic attributes with significant scenic quality and views. An important component of the region baseline situation and/or the achievement of landscape planning policies or county’s character with rare or distinctive elements and /or features. Landscape condition is good and and strategies. is generally well maintained. The landscape has very good perceptual qualities and a high level of 4.5.1. Landscape Receptor tranquility. A landscape with a low capacity to accommodate the type of development proposed, with components that are not easily replaced (e.g. ancient woodland, historic parkland. No detracting features Value present. The first step is to identify the components of the landscape that are likely The value of the landscape receptor will include: existing landscape A landscape or component with a high susceptibility/vulnerability to change. to be affected as part of the existing baseline situation: designations (international, national or local);presence of conservation, Medium Moderately valued but no designated landscapes present - may be valued locally (e.g. village greens, • The character of the landscape identifying the components that historical or cultural interest (international, national or local); scenic quality; allotments or public open spaces etc.). The landscape is unlikely to be one of the main reasons for the visit but makes a positive contribution to the experience. contribute to it i.e.. topography, land use, vegetation, settlement condition; recreational value and; associations i.e. some landscapes are associated with particular painters or writers or events in history. Commonplace elements / features present in good to fair condition, some of which could not be replaced patterns but are a good to fair representation of the landscape type, but common. Generally unremarkable character, albeit with some sense of place. The landscape has good to fair perceptual qualities and a • Any individual elements and aesthetic and perceptual aspects of Susceptibility to change + value = Sensitivity moderate level of tranquility. Some detracting features present. A landscape with a moderate capacity to the landscape that contribute to the distinctive character of the accommodate the type of development proposed with some resilience to, and tolerance of, change. The sensitivity of a landscape receptor is categorised as Very High, High, landscape. A landscape or component with a moderate susceptibility/vulnerability to change. Medium, Low or Very Low and is reliant on a written description and professional reasoning. A summary of the key attributes is shown below in Low Low value – of low importance, low quality and in fair to poor condition, with few features of value or • The condition or the physical state of the landscape, including the interest. The landscape has little or no amenity value – and is unlikely to be one of the main reasons for condition of elements or features such as buildings, hedgerows or Table B: Guidelines for the Assessment of Landscape Sensitivity. the visit woodland and any evidence of current pressures causing change. Rare or distinctive elements and / or features are not present. Several or many elements / features are 4.5.3. Magnitude of Effect discordant, derelict, in decline or lost, resulting in little or no positive contribution to landscape character and / or visual amenity. All landscape elements are easily replaceable. The landscape has few, if any, • The value placed upon the landscape. The factors that can help in perceptual qualities and is of low tranquility. Several detractors present. A landscape with a high capacity this include: existing landscape designations (international, national The magnitude of change in the landscape is influenced by a number of to accommodate the type of development proposed and relatively resilient to change. or local);presence of conservation, historical or cultural interest factors including the extent to which landscape features are lost and/or A landscape or component with a low susceptibility/vulnerability to change. (international, national or local); scenic quality; condition; recreational altered, the introduction of new features in the landscape, and the resulting value and; associations i.e. some landscapes are associated with Very Low Very low value – a degraded landscape, likely to be industrial or contaminated land, with no amenity change in the physical and/or perceptual characteristics of the landscape. value – and there is unlikely to be a reason to visit for recreational use. particular painters or writers or events in history. For each of the landscape receptors a clear approach is taken to assess the potential magnitude of impact. It is evaluated in terms of: A landscape of very low quality and in poor condition, with very low potential for biodiversity. The The second step is to identify interactions between the landscape receptors landscape has no perceptual qualities and is not considered to be tranquil. and different components of the development at all its different stages, • The size and scale of the impact Widespread detractors present. Most elements / features are discordant, derelict, in decline or lost altogether, resulting in negative effects on character with all intrinsic sense of place lost. Little prospect of including construction, on completion/operation and where relevant improvement. A landscape with a large capacity to accommodate the type of development proposed and decommissioning and restoration/reinstatement. • The geographical extent of the area which is likely to be affected very resilient to change.
A landscape or component with a very low susceptibility/vulnerability to change. • The duration or the impact and its reversibility.
28 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.04.0
TABLE C: Guidelines for the Assessment of Magnitude of Landscape 4.6. Visual Effects Effects An assessment of Visual Effects considers how the proposal will affect Magnitude of Effect Landscape Size or scale specific views and the general visual amenity experienced by people. The effect of both the loss and addition of new features is judged as either: Major Major alteration to, or complete loss of, key elements, Major; Moderate; Minor; Negligible; or None. 4.6.1. Mapping visibility - the Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) features and characteristics of the baseline condition. A professional judgement takes account of: The size and scale and/or geographical extents of change are The starting point for assessing potential visual effects is to identify the considered large due to the extent and proportion of loss of • Landscape function - the extent of existing elements lost, - the extent of area from which the site and proposed development is potentially existing landscape components and extent of alteration of aesthetic and perceptual qualities which are critical to the proportion this represents and the contribution that element makes visible from publicly accessible areas. landscape character. to the character of the landscape A Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) is mapped using a digital model (OS open The duration of effect would be considered long term and would • The degree to which aesthetic or perceptual aspects of the data ASCII/.xyz) . The presence of local screening features such as land either be irreversible or very difficult to reverse in practical terms. landscape are altered by removal of existing landscape components form/ridge lines, built form, woodland blocks and tree lines often reduce Moderate Notable alteration to, or significant loss of, key elements, features and addition of new ones (i.e. loss of hedgerows may change a the actual extent of visibility. Buildings are modelled at 8m above existing and characteristics of the baseline condition. small-scale intimate landscape into a large-scale open one) ground level and woodland blocks modelled at a height of 15m above existing ground level. The size and scale and/or geographical extents of change • Whether the effect changes key characteristics of the landscape are considered medium due to the extent and proportion of The ZVI, or Visual Envelope as it is sometimes referred to, provides an loss of existing landscape components and extent of which are critical to its distinctive character alteration to aesthetic and perceptual qualities and would immediate and easily understood indication of the area within which cause a noticeable difference to the landscape character or Geographical extent the proposed development may be visible and potential visual effects existing landscape components. experienced. The geographical area over which the landscape effects will be felt should The duration of effect would be considered medium term be considered. This is different to the size or scale i.e. a moderate loss The ZVI also shows where an object cannot be seen from, which is of great and / or potentially reversible, although it may not be of landscape elements over a large geographical area or a major loss of help when validating our assessment and carrying out fieldwork because practical to do so. landscape elements affecting a very localised area. Effects may have an the surveyor knows where there is no need for a “ground truth” check and Minor Minor alterations to key elements, features and influence at a variety of scales: can focus efforts where there are potential views. characteristics of the baseline condition. • Site level within the development site itself The size and scale and/or geographical extents of change are The ZVI helps at the scoping stage to establish the outer visual limit of land that may be visually connected to the site. When establishing the study considered low due to the extent and proportion of loss of • Immediate setting of the site existing landscape components and extent of alteration to area the emphasis is on a reasonable approach which is proportional to the aesthetic and perceptual qualities and would cause a very small • Scale of the landscape type or character area within which the scale and nature of the proposed development. The scope of assessment, change to the landscape character and/or existing landscape extent of the study area and potential viewpoints are agreed, preferably on components. proposal lies site with the local authorities landscape officer. The duration of effect would be considered short term • Larger scale influencing several landscape types or character areas and / or potentially reversible, and in practical terms All potential viewpoints identified during the desktop study and agreed would easily be achievable. Duration and reversibility during scoping are visited. This is a time consuming but rigorous approach where all public rights of way are walked, all roads driven along, all Negligible Barely discernible alterations to key elements, features and Duration is judged on a period of time: Temporary (during construction), characteristics of the baseline condition. recreational viewpoints checked and all representational residential short term (0-5 years), medium term (5-10 years) or long term (10-25 properties checked to establish whether the site can be seen or whether The proposed scheme would be barely perceptible or entirely years+). Reversibility is about whether the development is permanent or intervening tree cover, topography or built form provides screening. appropriate in its context and would cause no perceptible change if there are prospects of the effects being reversed( i.e. housing is viewed A photograph is taken to record the view. It should be noted that the to its landscape components, aesthetic and perceptual qualities as permanent but mineral workings may be partially reversible, in that the and character. fieldwork is conducted from publicly accessible areas only. landscape can be restored after use to something similar, but not the same, The duration of effect would be considered short term / as the original). Further consultation with the Local Planning Authorities Landscape Officer temporary and / or easily reversible, and in practical terms is undertaken to agree the principal viewpoints and those which are would very easily be achievable. The level of magnitude of landscape effect is recorded as major, moderate, representative of general visual amenity to be used in the assessment. None No change to the baseline condition. minor, negligible and none. The judgement made is reliant upon by a clear written rationale and professional judgement with reference to the guidelines in Table C.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 29 3.04.0
4.6.2. Visual Receptors 4.6.6. Sensitivity of Visual Receptors • The nature of the viewing experience ( i.e. static views and moving views from sequential points along a route/transport corridor Visual receptors are people and comprise individuals or groups of people Visual receptors are all people. Evaluating the sensitivity of each visual • The type of view i.e. panoramas, vistas, glimpses who are likely to be affected by the proposed development at specific receptor, (meaning the particular person or group of people likely to viewpoints or series of viewpoints. 4.6.3. Distance of the Receptor from the Site Boundary be affected at a specific viewpoint) considers both the visual receptors susceptibility to change arising from the proposal and also the value The principal visual receptors are generally determined based on the attached to the view. following criteria: The distance of the receptor is expressed in metres or kilometres and considers the following thresholds in relation to the site boundary: Susceptibility to change • Distance from the scheme to the receptor • Adjacent – next to or in very close proximity to the site The susceptibility of different visual receptors to changes in views and • High concentrations of viewers, such as settlements, local visual amenity is mainly a function of: recreational facilities etc. • Near distance – up to 500m • The occupation or activity of people experiencing the view at • Views illustrating the visual character of the surrounding area • Middle distance – between 500m and 2km particular locations • Areas identified as having a high potential for visual impact • Long distance –2km and beyond • The extent to which the attention or interest may be focused on the A photograph from each agreed viewpoint (visual receptor) is taken to views and visual amenity they experience record the existing view using a high quality Digital Single Lens Reflex 4.6.4. Nature of the View (SLR) camera with the equivalent of a fixed 50mm Focal Length lens, on Value attached to a view manual setting typically with three frames per view with a 20° overlap. This This describes the nature and relative amount of time over which views of visual representation aids a clear understanding of the view and context. the site/proposed development are likely to be experienced. Views are This should take account of: Refer to the Landscape Institute Technical Guidance Note 09/19, Visual described as being: • Recognition of the value attached to a view through planning Representation of Development Proposals. Photographs are taken at eye designations or in relation to heritage assets level, approximately 1.70m above ground level, from public viewpoints. • Full – Views are relatively open / unscreened and of a duration sufficient to appreciate the scale of the proposed development; • Indicators of the value attached to views by visitors i.e. appearance in Viewpoints selected for inclusion in the assessment and to illustrate the guidebooks or on tourist maps visual effects fall broadly into three groups : • Partial – Views are partially screened or filtered and/or of a limited duration that would not allow the full scale of the proposed • Provision of facilities for their enjoyment i.e. parking places, and Representative viewpoints - selected to represent the experience of development to be fully appreciated; interpretive boards different types of visual receptor, where larger numbers of viewpoints cannot all be included individually and where the significant effects are • Glimpsed – Views are largely screened and/or the duration of views • References to them in literature or art i.e. ‘Ruskin’s View’ over unlikely to differ – eg. certain points may be chosen to represent the would be so limited that the scale of the development cannot be Lunedale views of users of particular public footpaths and bridleways. appreciated by the receptor. Susceptibility to change + value = Sensitivity Specific viewpoints – chosen because they are key and sometimes 4.6.5. Private Viewpoints promoted viewpoints within the landscape e.g. specific local visitor Sensitivity is recorded as Very High, High, Medium, Low or Very Low. The judgement made is supported by a clear written rationale and attractions; viewpoints in areas of particularly noteworthy visual and/ In some instances it may be appropriate to consider private viewpoints the guidelines in Table D. These guidelines will vary depending on or recreational amenity such as landscapes with statutory landscape from residential properties or representing a community group of residents. susceptibility to the proposed change and are not generic. designations or viewpoints with particular cultural landscape associations. These are frequently dealt with through ‘Residential Amenity Assessments’ and are normally separate from an LVIA. Illustrative viewpoints – chosen specifically to demonstrate a particular 4.6.7. Magnitude of Visual Effects effect or specific issues, which might, for example, be the restricted It should be noted that in English law, no individual has the private right to visibility at certain locations. a particular view and it is not the role of planning to protect private interest. The magnitude of change on visual receptors is influenced by a number of The main issue with regard to private residents is that of amenity and this is The selection of the final viewpoints takes account of a range of factors, factors including; the extent to which the view and visual amenity of people normally addressed through standard separation distances. including; arising as a result of the proposed development is lost and/or altered, the introduction of new features in the view, and the resulting change in the However, a judgement on the visual component of residential amenity is • Accessibility to the public view. For each of the visual receptors a clear approach is taken to assess often needed. Not withstanding the above, views from private residencies the potential magnitude of impact. It is evaluated in terms of: • Potential number and sensitivity of viewers who may be affected can be tested and should be representative of rooms normally occupied • The viewing direction distance (i.e. short, medium and long distance in waking or daylight hours i.e. the ground floor. It is accepted that it is • The size and scale of the impact views) impractical to visit all residential properties affected and a representative viewpoint can be taken. • The geographical extent of the area which is likely to be affected 30 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.04.0
TABLE D: Guidelines for the Assessment of Visual Receptor Sensitivity • The duration or the impact and its reversibility. TABLE E: Guidelines for the Assessment of Magnitude of Visual Effect
Size or scale Sensitivity Description • The scale of the change in the view with respect to the loss or Very High A viewer with a very high susceptibility/vulnerability to change; with a specific interest in the view, addition of features in the view and changes in its composition, prolonged viewing opportunities and a very high value placed upon the view. Examples include: including the proportion of the view occupied by the proposed Visitors to very high value landscapes and townscapes Receptors in Internationally or Nationally designated sites such as World Heritage Sites, National development Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Special Landscape Areas, National Trails, Registered Parks and Gardens, Scheduled Monuments, Grade I and II* listed buildings; • The degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes Recognised scenic travel routes and other places where the views are the major contributor to the visit. in the landscape with the existing or remaining landscape elements Internationally / Nationally important visual function (context, setting, gateway, gap, screen, buffer, and characteristics in terms of form, scale, height, mass, line, colour transition zone, skyline, panorama, vista, focal point, cultural association etc.). and texture Highly visible in the wider area.
High A viewer with a high susceptibility/vulnerability to change; with a particular interest in the view, • The nature of the view of the proposed development, in terms of prolonged viewing opportunities and a high value placed upon the view. Examples include: the relative amount of time over which it will be experienced and Receptors in landscapes of Regional or County importance (e.g. Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLV), country parks, long distance trails, Grade II listed buildings, Conservation Areas etc.). whether views will be full, partial or glimpses. Views from other important /valued/well-used visitor destinations and recreation areas, including long distance / themed trails, touring routes, cycle paths, canals, rights of way used by many people Geographical extent where the view is an important reason for the visit; People in high value landscapes and townscapes where views contribute to the high value The geographical extent of a view varies with different viewpoints and is landscape setting; Residents at home using rooms normally occupied during daytime hours and are likely to experience likely to reflect: prolonged views. Important wider visual function. Visible in the wider area. • The angle of view in relation to the main activity of the receptor
Medium A viewer with a moderate susceptibility/vulnerability to change; with some interest in their • The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development surroundings, a medium period of exposure to the view and a moderate value placed upon the view. Examples include: People whose attention is not solely focused on the view or for short periods of time while passing • The extent of the area over which the changes would be visible through the landscape / townscape People in involved in outdoor recreational facilities where landscape appreciation is unlikely to be a Duration and reversibility of visual effects primary motive i.e. fishing or golf Users of scenic road, rail or waterway corridors not used by many people and where the view is only part of the reason for the visit; The same categories are used as the landscape effects i.e. Temporary Residents with limited view of the development; (during construction), short term (0-5 years), medium term (5-10 years) People at their place of work/educational institutions where visual amenity is an important contributor or long term (10-25 years+). and the same considerations with regard • the nature of the view of the development (i.e. full or partial view) to the setting and quality of working life. to reversibility apply. Reversibility is about whether the development is Important local visual function. Locally visible but limited influence. • the proportion of the development or particular features that would permanent or if there are prospects of the effects being reversed( i.e. be visible ( such as full, most, small art or none) Low A viewer with a low susceptibility/vulnerability to change; with little or no interest in their housing is viewed as permanent but mineral workings may be partially surroundings, attention not focused on the landscape and a low value placed on the view. Examples include: reversible, in that the landscape can be restored after use to something • the distance of the viewpoint from the development and whether People using busy main roads where their view is focused on the road; similar, but not the same, as the original). the viewer would focus on the development due to its scale or People at their place of work where the appreciation of the setting is of limited importance to the proximity or whether the development would be only a small, minor quality of working life; The level of magnitude of visual effect is recorded as major, moderate, People engaged in outdoor recreation or sport which does not involve or depend upon an element in a panoramic view appreciation of views; minor, negligible and none. The judgement made is reliant upon by a People using infrequently used / inaccessible public rights of way and likely to be travelling for a clear written rationale and professional judgement with reference to the • whether the view is static or transient, or one of a sequence of views, purpose other than to enjoy the view. Usually in landscapes / townscapes of low to moderate value. guidelines in Table E. Not important visual function. Limited local visibility. as from a footpath or moving vehicle • the nature of the changes which may include, for example, changes Very Low A viewer with a very low susceptibility/vulnerability to change; with no interest in their surroundings, 4.6.8. Predicting and Describing Visual Effects attention not focused on the landscape and a very low value placed on the view. Examples include: in the existing skyline profile, creation of a new visual focus in the
People moving past the view often at high speed (e.g. motorways and main line railways); People in view, introduction of new man-made objects, changes in visual degraded landscapes / townscapes of low value. In order to assist in description and comparison of the effects on views it simplicity or complexity, alteration of visual scale, and change to the No visual function and no visibility. can be helpful to consider a range of issues, which might include, but are degree of visual enclosure. not restricted to: An informed professional judgement should be made as to whether the
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 31 3.04.0
TABLE F: Level of Landscape and Visual Effects TABLE G: Criteria for Determining the Level of Landscape and Visual Effects
Sensitivity of Receptor Very High High Medium Low Very Low
Very Substantial Major
Substantial
Moderate Moderate
Slight Negligible Magnitude of Effect Minor/Slight Neutral Negligible None
visual effects can be described as positive or negative (or in some cases neutral) in their consequences for views and visual amenity. This will need to be based on a judgement about whether the changes will affect the quality of the visual experience for those groups of people who will see the changes, given the nature of the existing views. 4.7. Determining the Level of Landscape and Visual Effects Table G Criteria for Determining the Level of Landscape and Visual Effects 4.8.1. Limitations Judging the overall significance of landscape and visual effects for each provides an overall profile of each identified effect. receptor is carried out through a sequential combination: The principal limitations for this assessment are as follows: Tables F and G are a guide and not an absolute scoring system. They are Assessment for Sensitivity + Assessment for Magnitude = Level/ reliant on clear ,written rational and professional judgement. It specifically • Every effort has been made to ensure that the photographs and Nature/Duration of Effect. avoids fixed determination of significance through the sensitivity and their locations are “representative” of the site and its surroundings. Table F - Matrix for determining the Level of Landscape and Visual Effects magnitude of effects entries. Weather conditions and seasonal factors may influenced the visual illustrates how the effect is determined by a combination of the level of assessment and photographic record of the site. sensitivity of a receptor and the level of magnitude of effect arising from 4.8. Limitations and Assumptions • Access to assess the predicted visual effects from the front of private the development. individual properties has not been possible for all the residential 32 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.04.0
TABLE H: Taking Panoramas for Visualisation Types 3 - 4 (LI TGN-06-19 dwellings surrounding the application site and the assessment The photographs taken from representative viewpoints have been taken as Visual Representations) of likely visual effects has been made from vantage points and a series of panoramic photographs. They have been taken using a rigorous representative views taken from the nearest available public procedure to eradicate as many inaccuracies in the image as possible to Figure A3-1: Example of taking a panorama of 4 shots with 20°overlap viewpoint. gain a true representation of the eye of the visual receptor (person).
4.8.2. Assumptions The photos have been taken with a Nikon D590 digital single lens reflex camera with a AF-S Nikkor 35mm fixed lens. The camera has a focal length The following assumptions have been made: multiplier of 1.5, making the 33mm focal length equivalent to a standard fixed 50mm focal length lens on a standard 35mm SLR film camera. The • The establishment and growth rates for the landscape design and horizontal field of view in landscape format from a single frame shot is mitigation proposals are based on established forestry (Forestry approximately 40 degrees. The camera was set on a level tripod at 1.70m, Commission) methods. It is assumed that new planting of the to represent eye level. The camera was rotated in a clockwise direction at proposed trees (planted at 3-4m high) will achieve a height of 5.5- 20 degree increments with a 50% overlap of photographs to create a join 7.5m for oak species and 7.5-10.00m for Pine species after 10-15 that was as accurate as possible. years. The coordinates at which the camera is set was marked using a JUNO GPS • The implementation of the landscape design and mitigation tracker and later this position accurately plotted onto a plan of the site. measures will be carried out at the end of construction works. A series of overlapping photos were taken to record the 90 degree field of view, then later digitally stitched together in Adobe Photoshop using • During the construction period, existing trees, hedges and other the command “Automate > Photomerge > Reposition (not blended)”. landscape elements to be retained will be protected with the The frames were then digitally aligned and blended. Exposure and levels implementation of a Construction Environment Management Plan were adjusted to ensure a smooth transition between the photographs (CEMP). This will include a Tree/Hedgerow Protection Strategy and dependant on the conditions when the photographs were taken. the Root Protection Zones of trees that are close to construction TABLE I: Visualisation Types 1 - 4 (LI TGN-06-19 Visual Representations) activities will be protected in accordance with the latest relevant Each panoramic photograph in this assessment has been produced using British Standards. The CEMP will be implemented in advance of this procedure and all represent a 90° field of view as the human eye sees. construction commencing and enforced and monitored throughout It should be pointed out that photography can only represent the view and the construction period by a qualified arboriculturalist or Chartered the human eye can capture much more than a camera. The human head Landscape Architect. moves, the eye focuses in and out, humans also vary in height and eyesight can differ with age and health meaning some may see more or less than • When operational, the existing and new landscape features will be others. maintained and managed in the long term by way of a Landscape Management Strategy. Any such strategy should be a flexible 4.9.2. Photo-montages document which can be updated if conditions or proposals for the site change. The proposed photo-montage panoramic views were produced by modelling the proposal in Revit or SketchUP 3D software. The model 4.9. Mitigation Measures included existing context for triangulation and alignment. The model was imported to Auto-desk 3ds Max software to accurately position Primary Mitigation Measures cameras that replicate those used on site and the model aligned to baseline photographs using LiDAR survey data. In some close views the The primary mitigation measures which have been designed into the model was aligned to site specific topographical survey data. Rendered scheme as an iterative part of the design process and the standard frames of the model were exported as .png and placed over the baseline construction and operational management practices are described in detail photographs. Where the model is split over multiple frames (middle distant in Section 3. and close views) the rendered frames were stitched together using the Adobe Photoshop command “Automate > Photomerge > Reposition (not 4.9.1. Panoramic Photograph Methodology blended)” and the frames then digitally aligned and blended.
Refer to Landscape Institute Technical Note TGN 06/19 Visual Type 3 photo-montages have been produced for certain visual receptors. Representation of development proposals, published on 17 September (refer to TABLE G).These are shown in summer: on completion at year 1 2019. after planting, and; at year 15 - to demonstrate the long term effects of the development once the mitigation planting has established some maturity. The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 33 5.0 5. Legislation, Planning Policy + Guidance
5.1. Planning Policy Framework
Aspects of planning guidance and policy relevant to landscape and visual Achieving well-designed places versatile agricultural land, and of trees and woodland; amenity that have informed the design process are contained within the • c) maintaining the character of the undeveloped coast, while following documents: With regards to the exemplar, sensitive approach to the design of the development; improving public access to it where appropriate; • National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) • d) minimising impacts on and providing net gains for biodiversity, Para 28 states - “Design quality should be considered throughout the including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more • Cornwall Council Local Plan 2016 - 2030. evolution and assessment of individual proposals” resilient to current and future pressures: • Emerging Poundstock Neighbourhood Development Plan Para 124 states - “The creation of high quality buildings and places is • f) remediating and mitigating despoiled, degraded, derelict, fundamental to what the planning and development process should contaminated and unstable land, where appropriate.’ 5.2. National Planning Policy Framework achieve. Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development, creates better places in which to live and work and helps make development Para 171 states - “Plans should: distinguish between the hierarchy of The NPPF sets out the Government’s planning policies for England and acceptable to communities.” international, national and locally designated sites; allocate land with how these are expected to be applied, with a strong presumption in favour the least environmental or amenity value, where consistent with other of sustainable development. It was revised in July 2018. Para 127 states - Planning policies and decisions should ensure that policies in this Framework; take a strategic approach to maintaining and developments: enhancing networks of habitats and green infrastructure; and plan for the The NPPF has three interdependent objectives: • will function well and add to the overall quality of the area enhancement of natural capital at a catchment or landscape scale across local authority boundaries”. • Economic objective - to build a strong, responsive and competitive • are visually attractive as a result of good architecture, layout and economy to support growth, innovation and productivity appropriate and effective landscaping Para 172 states - “Great weight should be given to conserving and • Social objective - to support strong, vibrant and healthy enhancing landscape and scenic beauty in National Parks, the Broads • are sympathetic to local character and history, including the built communities, by ensuring a sufficient number and range of homes and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which have the highest status environment and landscape setting are provided to meet the needs of present and future generations; of protection in relation to these issues. Planning permission should be and by fostering a well-designed and safe built environment • establish or maintain a strong sense of place, using the arrangement refused for major development55 other than in exceptional circumstances, of streets, spaces, building types and materials to create attractive, and where it can be demonstrated that the development is in the public • Environmental objective - to contribute to protecting and welcoming and distinctive places to live, work and visit interest. enhancing our natural, built and historic environment including making effective use of land, improving biodiversity, minimising • optimise the potential of the Site to accommodate and sustain an Para 173 states - “Within areas defined as Heritage Coast (and that do not waste and pollution, and mitigating and adapting to climate change. appropriate amount and mix of development (including green and already fall within one of the designated areas mentioned in paragraph other public space 172), planning policies and decisions should be consistent with the special Planning law requires that applications for planning permission be character of the area and the importance of its conservation. Major determined in accordance with the development plan, unless material • create places that are safe, inclusive and accessible and which development within a Heritage Coast is unlikely to be appropriate, unless it considerations indicate otherwise. The National Planning Policy Framework promote health and well-being, with high standards of amenity for is compatible with its special character. must be taken into account in preparing the development plan, and is existing and future users. a material consideration in planning decisions. Planning policies and Para 131 states - “In determining applications, great weight should be decisions must also reflect relevant international obligations and statutory given to outstanding or innovative designs which promote high levels requirements. of sustainability, or help raise the standard of design more generally in 5.2.1. Relevant NPPF policies to this proposal an area, so long as they fit in with the overall form and layout of their surroundings”.
Sustainable Development Conserving and enhancing the natural environment
Para 9 states - “Planning policies and decisions should play an active role in Para. 170 states - “Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and guiding development towards sustainable solutions, but in doing so should enhance the natural and local environment by: take local circumstances into account, to reflect the character, needs and • a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, sites of biodiversity opportunities of each area”. or geological value and soils; Para. 11 states - “Plans and decisions should apply a presumption in favour • b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside, of sustainable development”. and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services – including the economic and other benefits of the best and most 34 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.05.0
5.3.4. Application scheme proposals compliance with the NPPF
Paragraph Application Scheme Proposals Compliance with the NPPF
The design has been fundamentally informed by the LVIA from the very outset to and to embed mitigation in an iterative way.
Paras 28, 124, 127: Commitment to good design The landscape design, ecological strategy and planting reflects the local landscape character, facilitates screening, breaks up the distinction between the built and natural landscape and greatly enhances the site’s biodiversity. It establishes a cohesive, sensitive and naturalised landscape / habitats that seamlessly knits the development with its setting to ensure it is in keeping with the local landscape character and setting. Within this framework, reflective and contemplative memorial garden areas are provided. These are designed to be ‘wild’ rather than manicured, to reflect the beauty and aesthetic of the wider landscape.
The proposals have undergone two Design Reviews with the Cornwall Design Review Panel (CDRP) who fully endorse the scheme and the central ambition to avoid the ‘municipal’ character of existing facilities elsewhere in Cornwall. Their positive feedback was closely fed back into the design development. They applauded the Para 131: Innovative and outstanding design aspirational design approach that integrates the project closely with the landscape and ecology of the site, with extensive proposals to set the new development into the landscape and create new open spaces/gardens for reflection and for memorial use. They felt it provides an elevated level of grace and dignity to funeral proceedings and offers the opportunity to be a project of ‘national’ if not ‘international’ design quality. Their view is that the project would be a fine addition to the public and civic architecture of Cornwall.
The innovative response to the Crematorium building takes its inspiration and form from the ancient long barrow burial sites, integrating ground hugging bunds with a floating plane of the green roof structure that unifies the entrance, porte corchere, gathering space and ceremony spaces. Further ground modeling employs the use of a Ha-Ha which allows for the ‘tilting’ of ground levels adjacent to the A39 to effectively screen views of the access road, vehicles and car parking from the A39 whilst preserving an uninterrupted view of the landscape beyond.
The proposals include a comprehensive landscape/ecology strategy to create a holistic and naturalistic landscape framework that greatly enhances the character, Paras 170 + 171: Conserving and enhancing the natural setting and biodiversity value - with a biodiversity net gain of 31.95% for hedgerows and 116.57% for habitats. This is far in excess of the 10% Biodiversity Gain environment requirement. New habitats include new and enhanced Cornish Hedge banks, bolstered hedgerows, new native woodland planting, hedgerow margins, species-rich grassland, new wetland habitats and wetland margins.
Whilst the site does not lie within an AONB it is within approximately 1km of the Pentire Point to Widemouth AONB and therefore “great weight” has been given to conserving and enhancing the landscape and scenic beauty to its setting. The proposals have been fundamentally landscape/ecology/design-led by a process Para 172: AONB of detailed site appraisal to reflect a sensitive ceremonial facility that focusses upon the protection and enhancement of the landscape qualities, views, landscape features and natural habitats on the site and the wider setting of the AONB. It also meets a number of the AONB Management Objectives, notably: improving landscape integration of the A39 with the rural AONB setting; supporting a landscape scale approach to extending and connecting currently fragmented locally characteristic habitats, and proposing the planting of local provenance native tree species to act as a future seed source for native woodland establishment where this is currently absent or sparse to assist subsequent natural regeneration.
Whilst the site does not lie within the Heritage Coast it is in close proximity as it lies to the south of Widemouth Road. The special character of the area has fundamentally underpinned and influenced the landscape-led response to the development proposals to ensure it is wholly in-keeping and enhances its setting. Para 173: Heritage Coast
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 35 5.0
5.3. Local Planning Policy and Guidance 5.3.5. Application scheme proposals compliance with Cornwall Council Local Plan 5.3.1. The Determining Authority
The Local Planning Authority for the area within which the site lies is Cornwall Council (CC). Paragraph Application Scheme Proposals Compliance with Cornwall Local Plan The Council’s Local Plan was formally adopted on 22 November 2016 and covers the plan period until 2030. Policy 1 provides the basis for the Council ‘to secure development that improves the economic, social 5.3.2. Relevant Polices from the Local Plan and environmental conditions in the area’ stating that, ‘When considering whether a development Policy 1: Presumption in favour of proposal is sustainable or not, account will be taken of its location, layout, design and use against The following policies in relation to Landscape and Visual amenity sustainable development the three pillars of economic development, social development and environmental protection and and design issues that may be considered relevant to the proposed improvement’. development are: The proposals provide a new crematoria facility to serve an area that is currently outside of the catchment Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies areas of existing facilities. The nearest facilities are currently located in Barnstable and Bodmin which are 37 and 27 miles away, respectively. This can often result in funeral journey times of over an hour, often • Policy 1: Presumption in favour of sustainable development more, for people travelling to services. The experience of local funeral directors has shown there is a firm • Policy 5: Business and Tourism desire for people who live in North Cornwall to have their cremation service in the locality. Due to the distance to the nearest facilities, this is not often possible. • Policy 12: Design The proposals provide a facility and service in a sustainable location, readily accessible by car and public • Policy 23: Natural Environment transport, to an area that is currently under-provided for, which will reduce funeral journey times to • Policy 25: Green Infrastructure residents in North Cornwall. From an environmental perspective, the proposals have been very sensitively Development Guidance Documents designed to respond to the local landscape character and quality and character of the nearby AONB and AGLV, to provide a facility that is integrated into its setting and greatly enhances biodiversity and Green • A Green Infrastructure Strategy for Cornwall Infrastructure.
• Cornwall Planning for Biodiversity Guide Policy 5 seeks to provide a positive policy framework, which supports jobs, business and investment with Supplementary Planning Documents a focus on sustaining a range of local businesses with a flexible approach that ensures sufficient sites and Policy 5: Business and Tourism • Cornwall Design Guide a range of premises of the right type are available in the right places at the right time to meet business needs of the economy. The emphasis will be on supporting a range of targets, one being; ‘The quality of 5.3.3. Relevant Polices from the Poundstock Neighbourhood Cornwall’s environment, through protection and enhancement, as an economic driver’. Development Plan The proposals have been fundamentally landscape-led by a process of detailed site appraisal and the findings of the LVIA to reflect a sensitive ceremonial facility that focusses upon the protection and The Poundstock Neighbourhood Development Plan is still in development enhancement of the landscape qualities, views, Cornish Hedgerows and natural habitats, sits quietly in and a draft plan is, according to their website, currently being prepared. As the landscape and respects the wider setting. such there is nothing to comment upon at this stage.
The Council is committed to achieving high quality, safe, sustainable and inclusive design in all developments. New developments should recognise Cornwall’s distinctive natural and historic character Policy 12: Design and demonstrate a design process that has clearly considered the existing context.
See above.
36 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.05.0
Paragraph Application Scheme Proposals Compliance with Cornwall Local Plan
Policy 23 states that: 1) development proposals will need to sustain local distinctiveness and character and protect and where possible enhance Cornwall’s natural environment and assets according to their international, national and local significance, and; 2) be of an appropriate scale, mass and design that recognises and respects landscape character of both designated Policy 23: Natural Environment and un-designated landscapes and take into account and respect the sensitivity and capacity of the landscape asset, considering cumulative impact.
23.2(a) The Cornwall AONB. Great weight will be given to conserving the landscape and scenic beauty within or affecting the setting of the AONB. Proposals should be informed by and assist the delivery of the objectives of the Cornwall AONB Management Plans.
23.4 Avoidance or mitigation of landscape impacts would be required for any new development. Development should avoid adverse impacts on existing features as a first principle and enable net gains by designing in landscape features and enhancements. Where adverse impacts are unavoidable they should be adequately and proportionately mitigated.
The proposals sensitively respond to: the character and design elements of the existing historic and natural environment; protect and enhance the quality, biodiversity value and number of Cornish Hedgerows; protect views across the site to the coast; and position subterranean elements of built form sensitively into the land, incorporating the principles of ancient barrow burial sites (stone and compacted earth forming many of its walls and roofs) - all within a cohesive landscape framework, that retains a largely ‘green and natural’ setting.
Policy 25 states that ‘Development proposals should contribute to an enhanced connected and functional network of habitat, open spaces and waterscapes by: 1. Retaining and enhancing the most important environmental infrastructure assets and connections that contribute to the functionality of networks of ecosystems ... 3. Providing appropriate buffers to Policy 25: Green Infrastructure natural spaces that have community, biodiversity and heritage significance; and 4. Restoring or enhancing connectivity for nature and people through the site and linking to adjacent sites or green routes, helping to provide better links between urban and rural landscapes and coastal areas, creating accessible and attractive places for communities to make regular contact with the natural environment, 6. Providing clear arrangements for the long-term maintenance and management and/or enhancement of the green infrastructure assets.
The proposals are supported by detailed hedgerows surveys, ecology surveys and a holistic landscape and ecology strategy incorporating subterranean ancient barrow burial elements, a green roof and native planting to facilitate screening, break up the distinction between the built and natural landscape and enhance biodiversity. The overall aim is to seamlessly knit together the facility with its setting to ensure it is in keeping with the character of the local landscape.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 37 5.0
5.4. Landscape Planning Designations 5.4.2. Non-statutory Landscape Planning Designations
An assessment of all baseline information was carried out for the site including better integration of existing holiday sites, visitor infrastructure, Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) and surroundings, within the full extents of the active study area. This car parks and signage. Pay particular attention to the increase in scale, extent is sufficient to cover the likely zone of influence of the proposed massing, associated development and respecting local character in AGLV’s are locally designated landscapes with a high landscape quality and development. external works,landscaping, site design and layout at Polzeath, Tintagel, strong and distinctive characteristics. Bossiney, Trewethett, and near Widemouth”. 5.4.1. Statutory Landscape Planning Designations The site does not lie within an AGLV however the Week St Mary AGLV South West Coastal Path (SWCP) boundary runs along the south side of Widemouth Road, extends down to Poundstock, and takes in an extensive area to the east. Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) The South West Coastal Path is England’s longest way-marked long-distance footpath and National Trail. It stretches for 630 miles from Minehead, The Bude Coast AGLV lies adjacent to the north western edge of the The Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty covers 958 km2 (27% ) Somerset, along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, to Poole Harbour, Dorset. of the total area of the county. It comprises 12 separate areas, designated Week St Mary AGLV and runs northwards, west of Marine Drive, taking in Widemouth Bay. under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 for special The route of the SWCP within the study area runs along the north coast landscape protection. coastline, within the AONB, past Widemouth Bay and continues north past Recommendations: The site, and in particular it’s southern boundary Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or AONB’s, have the highest status of Lower Northbeak car park and on to Bude. It is over 1.2km from the site. and entrance way, needs to be sensitively designed to respect the close protection in relation to landscape and scenic beauty. AONB’s, along with proximity of the AGLV local designation. National Parks, are considered to be the most special landscapes in the Sensitivity - Very High. National Trails are very highly valued and very country and belong to an international family of protected areas. susceptible to certain types of change. Heritage Coast (HC)
The Pentire Point to Widemouth AONB lies west and south of the site, Recommendations: Consider any potential views of the proposed Heritage coasts are ‘defined’ rather than designated, so there isn’t a statutory covering land between the A39 and the coastline. It is the largest section development from the SWCP and ensure there are no detrimental visual designation process like that associated with national parks and areas of of the Cornwall AONB on the north coast, approximately 30km long and effects on users of this National Trail. outstanding natural beauty (AONB). They were established to conserve the varying in width from 5km near Boscastle to 0.5km at Pentire Point. best stretches of undeveloped coast in England. A heritage coast is defined Public Rights of Way (PRoW) by agreement between the relevant maritime local authorities and Natural The site lies outside this AONB but is within approximately 0.9km of its England. Heritage coasts are protected through development control with the Public Rights of Way include footpaths, bridleways, national cycle-ways and planning system. nearest boundary west of Widemouth Bay Caravan Park. trail, and some canal tow paths. These are rights of way on which the public have a legally protected right to pass. Heritage coasts were established to: Sensitivity - Very High. AONB’s are very highly valued and very • conserve, protect and enhance: susceptible to certain types of change. There is currently no public right of access through the site. • the natural beauty of the coastline Recommendations: Given the proximity to the AONB and its nationally The nearest Public Right’s of Way are: • their terrestrial, coastal and marine flora and fauna important designation, it is an important consideration in the development • their heritage features of the site. Local policies within the AONB Management Plan (2016 - 2021) • PRoW no. 533/28/1 - a bridleway - which runs from Widemouth Road, • encourage and help the public to enjoy, understand and appreciate these state: between Higher Widemouth Farm, along a hedgerow enclosed track areas down to Widemouth Bay, approximately 0.65km west of the site; PPW2.02: “Seek better landscape integration of the A39, B3314, B3263, • maintain and improve the health of inshore waters affecting heritage and other major roads with their rural AONB setting by improved planting • PRoW 533/23/1 - a footpath - which runs alongside Widemouth Fields coasts and their beaches through appropriate environmental design and management, reducing the impact of signage and lighting, use Caravan Park, approximately 0.29km east of the A39 and the site; management measures of non-intrusive methods of traffic calming and characteristic use of local • take account of the needs of agriculture, forestry and fishing and the materials and hedging styles in highways work”. • PRoW 533/22/2 - a footpath - which runs from Coppathorne down to economic and social needs of the small communities on these coasts Poundstock, on the eastern side of the A39. PPW2.05: “Support a landscape scale approach to extending and The site does not lie within a defined heritage coast area. connecting currently fragmented locally characteristic habitats. These Sensitivity = High. Public Rights of Way are highly valued and susceptible to certain types of change. The HC boundary broadly follows the AONB boundary but extends to include maritime cliffs and slopes, lowland heathland, lowland meadows, cover land immediately south of Widemouth Road. coastal native woodland, as at Dizzard, and native valley broadleaved Recommendations: Consider views and visual effects from these public woodland found for example in the Valency Valley, Millook Woods, rights of way. Sensitivity = High. Heritage Coasts are highly valued and susceptible Crackington Haven and St Nectan’s Glen. Consider small scale planting of to certain types of change. local provenance native tree species such as Sessile Oak, Hazel and Alder There is the opportunity to provide new physical access into the to act as a future seed source for native woodland establishment where this Crematorium’s Memorial Gardens for quiet contemplation and to Recommendations: The site’s southern boundary and entrance way needs is currently absent or sparse to assist subsequent natural regeneration”. experience the outstanding views westwards towards the coast. to be sensitively designed to respect the close proximity of the Heritage Coast defined area. PPW2.10: “Seek a reduction of landscape and visual impacts of tourism
38 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 5.0
Figure 5.1: Landscape Planning Designations: Wider Study Area
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 39 5.0
5.6. Nature Conservation Designations
We have identified the nature conservation designations within the study Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI’s) area to inform our assessment of the value and sensitivity of the landscape. For the assessment of the level of effects on the designated nature A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is one of the country’s very best wildlife and/or geological sites. SSSI’s include some of the most spectacular conservation assets refer to the Ecological Statement prepared by Code 7 and beautiful habitats: wetlands teeming with wading birds, flower-rich Consultants. meadows, windswept shingle beaches and remote upland peat bogs.
The site is not subject to any nature conservation designations. There are no Site’s of Scientific Interest (SSSI) within 1km of the site.
There is a European designation within 2km. The nearest SSSI is Boscastle to Widemouth SSSI, approximately 1.2km 5.6.1. European Designations distance from the site. This is a large 639ha coastal SSSI, stretching from Boscastle to Widemouth Bay. It is noted for its biological and geological characteristics. The Dizzard dwarf oak woodland is unique and In the UK, European sites are protected by the Conservation of Habitats and of international importance for its lichen communities, with 131 species Species Regulations 2017. Under this legislation, plans or projects which are recorded. capable of affecting the designated interest features of European sites require a Habitats Regulations Assessment to determine whether they cause any likely Sensitivity - Very High. SSSI’s are very highly valued and very significant adverse effects (either alone or in combination with other projects susceptible to certain types of change. in the surrounding area). Recommendations: Refer to the Ecology Assessment. Special Area of Conservation (SAC) 5.6.3. Non-statutory Designations The site is over 1.2km distance from the Bristol Channel Approaches / Dynesfeydd Môr Hafren (SAC). This spans the Bristol Channel between the northern coast of Cornwall into Carmathen Bay in Wales. This SAC covers County Wildlife Site (CWS) an area of 5,850 km2, and supports a diversity of habitat types, from reefs to mudflats. Harbour porpoise presence varies seasonally within this site. These are of at least county importance for wildlife/geology in Cornwall and are all recognised and given weight through the planning process. Recommendations: Refer to the Ecology Assessment. There are no CWS’s within 1km of the site. Sensitivity - Very High. SAC’s are very highly valued and very The nearest CWS is at Widemouth Bay, 1.2km distance. susceptible to certain types of change. Recommendations: Impacts are considered unlikely. Refer to the Ecology 5.6.2. Statutory Designations Assessment. Priority Habitats (PH) Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ). These are habitats which are considered of conservation significance either Marine Conservation Zones are areas that protect a range of nationally locally or nationally. important, rare or threatened habitats and species. There are 91 MCZs in waters around England. There are no priority habitats on the site.
The site is over 1.2km distance from the Hartland Point to Tintagel Marine There are two Deciduous Woodland PH’s within 0.27km of the site. One lies Conservation Zone. This is an inshore site on the north coast of Devon and to the west of the site, the other lies to the north, by Quinceborough Farm Cornwall. The site covers 304 km² and follows the coastline along the mean Cottages. high water mark from Tintagel Head to Hartland Point. Sensitivity - High. PH’s are highly valued and susceptible to certain Sensitivity - Very High. MCZ’s are very highly valued and very types of change. susceptible to certain types of change. Recommendations: Look to greatly improve and enhance the biodiversity Recommendations: Refer to the Ecology Assessment. of the site to encourage habitat connectivity. Refer to the Ecology Assessment.
40 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 5.0
0 500m
1:25,000 Scale
Site Boundary SSSI SAC Priority County Wildlife Habitat Site
Figure 5.2: Nature Conservation Designations: Wider Study Area The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 41 5.0
5.7. Cultural Heritage Designations
We have identified the cultural heritage assets within the study area to inform our assessment of the value and sensitivity of the landscape and views/visual receptors within or of these assets. 5.7.1. Statutory and Non-Statutory Heritage Designations
There are no Scheduled Monuments or Conservation Areas within 2.5km of the site.
Listed Buildings
Listed building status is a statutory designation, where a building has been deemed to be of a ‘special architectural or historic interest’.
There are no listed buildings within or immediately adjacent to the site and only a sparse coverage of listed assets within 2.5km.
The nearest listed building is Coppathorne Cottage, Grade II, 95m from the site’s south eastern boundary. The frontage of the colour washed thatched C18th cottage is orientated south, away from the site. However there is clear inter-visibility from the rear of the property of the site.
There is a cluster of Grade II listed buildings/structures at Poundstock centred around the Church of St. Neot (Grade I) and The Guildhouse (Grade I). These are enclosed by mature tree cover and lie 1.3km south of the site. There is no inter-visibility with the site.
At Penfound Manor, 1.4km south east of the site, the Manor is a Grade II*, C15 manor house, with a large footprint of Grade II listed Farm buildings around the farm yard. Whilst this is in a slightly elevated situation there is no inter-visibility with the site.
These Listed buildings are shown on Figure 5.4 which is at a larger scale.
Sensitivity = Very High/High. Grade I and II* listed buildings and their setting are very highly valued and very highly susceptible to certain types of change. Grade II listed buildings may potentially be slightly less valuable and sensitive.
Recommendations: Consider the inter-visibility, from publicly accessible locations, from the listed buildings.
0 500m
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Site Boundary Conservation Scheduled Areas Monuments
Figure 5.3: Cultural and Heritage Designations: Wider Study Area 42 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 5.0
Grade I Grade II Grade II*
Figure 5.4: Cultural and Heritage Designations - Listed Buildings : Study Area The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 43 5.0
5.8. Summary of Landscape, Nature Conservation and Cultural Heritage Designations to the Site + Surrounds
Figure 5.5 highlights the local planning constraints within the study area of the site.
The site does not have any landscape, nature conservation or cultural heritage designations attached to it.
The site is in close proximity to the non-statutory designated Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) and the defined Heritage Coast which runs to the south of Widemouth Road.
The site is 0.9km from The Pentire Point to Widemouth AONB, the nearest boundary being west of Widemouth Bay Caravan Park.
There is no public access in the site.
The South West Coastal Path, that follows the coastline, is approximately 1.2km distance from the site.
The site lies over 1.2km from the Bristol Channel Approaches / Dynesfeydd Môr Hafren Special Area of Conservation (SAC); the Hartland Point to Tintagel Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ), and; the Boscastle to Widemouth coastal SSSI.
There are two Priority Habitats - both Deciduous Woodland - within 0.27km of the site. One lies to the west of the site, the other lies to the north, by Quinceborough Farm Cottages.
There is a Grade II listed building, Coppathorne Cottage, 95m south-east of the site. There is no inter-visibility with the site from the building frontage (and publicly accessible area) but clear inter-visibility with the site from the rear of the building.
The relative proximity to the nationally designated AONB and SWCP, the immediate proximity to the locally designated AGLV and the nearby Priority Habitats are important considerations in the development of the site.
Figure 5.5: Landscape Planning, Nature Conservation + Cultural and Heritage Designations: Study Area
44 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 5.0
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The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 45 6.0 6. Landscape Baseline
6.1. Baseline Components 6.3. Supporting surveys and assessments
The landscape baseline is identified and described within this chapter on In addition, the baseline information contains the findings of the various Reserve forms a focus for the wealth of biodiversity found across the area. the following pages. The components that make up the landscape baseline studies and assessments commissioned by the client to accompany the Similarly, this rich resource is reflected in the designation of four Special comprise: planning application. These studies include: Areas of Conservation (SAC) within the area: the Tintagel–Marsland– Clovelly Coast SAC and the Culm Grasslands SAC. • The landscape character of the site and surroundings • Topographical Survey The area is a popular visitor destination, providing many leisure and • The landscape components i.e. topography, land use, vegetation, • Hedgerow Assessment - carried out by Code 7 recreation opportunities. The South-West Coast Path National Trail settlement patterns and the individual elements and aesthetic and • Ecological Surveys - carried out by Code 7 provides access to dramatic cliffs and remote coves. Inland, a more perceptual aspects of the landscape that contribute to the character tranquil, pastoral landscape provides for quiet leisure and recreation, • The value placed upon the landscape - factors that help in the • FRA and Drainage/SuDS Strategy - carried out by John Grimes walking, cycling and riding. understanding of this include: existing landscape designations Partnership Key Characteristics of the ‘The Culm’ NCA present in the site and (international, national or local); presence of conservation, historical surroundings: or cultural interest (international, national or local); scenic quality; 6.4. Landscape Character recreational value and; associations i.e. some landscapes are • Rolling, open plateaux – in places steeply undulating – with many associated with particular painters or writers or events in history. Landscape character is what makes an area unique. It is defined as “a small but deep valleys, fast-flowing rivers and streams that drain distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements, be it natural (soil, • The condition or the physical state of the landscape - including the the area (principally to the west and south), and wide views across a landform) and/or human (for example, settlement and development) in the remote landscape. condition of elements or features such as buildings, hedgerows or landscape that makes one landscape different another, rather than better woodland and any evidence of current pressures causing change. or worse”. The site is covered by a number of assessments from a national • A consistent geology, underlain by the dramatically folded This assessment of baseline takes into account national and / or local to local scale as described in the following paragraphs. mudstones and sandstones of the Culm group landscape related designations; the landscape’s cultural heritage; the • Heavy, poorly-drained soil, which supports a pastoral landscape of landscape’s nature conservation value; its character; settlement patterns; 6.4.1. National and Regional Character Areas low agricultural quality but high nature conservation interest. public rights of way; topography and significant vegetation in order to establish its value. Natural England is responsible for the National Character Area (NCA) • Little tree cover on the plateau, except for occasional wind-sculpted profiles which divide England into 159 distinct natural areas. Each is defined hedgerow and farmstead trees, and conifer blocks. Woodland is 6.2. Standard Data Sources and Desk Study by a unique combination of landscape, biodiversity, geodiversity and more frequent in the shelter of valleys and combes running to the cultural and economic activity. Their boundaries follow natural boundaries sea, and where associated with estates. The baseline information has been obtained from a number of sources: rather than administrative ones, making them a good decision making framework for the natural environment. • Mosaic of field patterns reflecting the historic land use of the Culm, • Topographical and Pathfinder OS Maps surrounded by characteristic hedgebanks. Nationally, the site lies within NCA profile 149 ‘The Culm’. • Natural England’s database of Landscape Character Assessments in • Diverse mosaic of field patterns: long, narrow, former common England The rolling ridges and plateaux of the Culm extend across north-west fields around hamlets; irregular, older fields on the valley sides; Devon and north-east Cornwall, reaching from the foot of Dartmoor in the and rectilinear enclosures on the high ridges and wet valley • National Character Area Profile southwest and the edge of the Cornish Killas in the west, to the spectacular bottoms. Hedgerows vary from over-managed to neatly trimmed to • Cornwall Council website sources Atlantic coast of cliffs and sandy beaches in the north. North-eastwards overgrown, but, where they are low, the openness of the landscape they meet the Exmoor landscape and stand high above the Devon is emphasised: there can be long views punctuated only by power • Cornwall Council’s Landscape Character Assessment Redlands. The open, often treeless, ridges are separated by an intricate lines, wind turbines and occasional industrial buildings at the pattern of small valleys forming the catchments of the Rivers Taw, Torridge settlement edges. There are scattered copses and hedgerow trees of • MAGIC (DEFRA) interactive GIS dataset and Mole. This is largely a remote and sparsely populated landscape. oak, ash and beech, especially in the north-west.
• Historic England (various sources) The geodiversity of the area is of national importance. Dramatically folded • Spectacular coastline of high cliffs and estuarine features, nationally rocks allow access to and interpretation of the geodiversity, and create important geological features and narrow wooded combes. a distinctive coastline. The exceptional beauty, tranquility and wildness of the coast are reflected in its designation as both the North Devon The LVIA takes into account the key characteristics of the NCA and are Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a Cornwall AONB, and taken into account when making judgments about levels of value and recognition as Heritage Coast. The UNESCO North Devon Biosphere effects.
46 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
Sensitivity - High. NCA 149 The Culm is highly valued and highly susceptible to certain types of change.
Recommendations: Site Location (apx) The Culm • Maintain levels of important scrub habitat to benefit a range of bird species and scarce invertebrates such as the dingy mocha moth.
• Protect and reinforce the pattern and network of hedgerows and hedgebanks, the often ancient and defining character of the ridges and hills. This will provide opportunities for the movement and migration of flora and fauna, regulate water flow and reduce soil erosion.
• Realise opportunities to make further connections between arable and pastoral land use through features such as hedgebanks, streams, sunken lanes and woodlands.
Site Location (apx) Figure 6.2: Landscape Character Map : Cornwall & Isles of Scilly
Figure 6.1: National Character Area : 149 The Culm extract from NCA Profile:149 The Culm The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/6654414139949056 47 6.0
6.4.2. Landscape Character Type 6.4.3. Landscape Description Unit
At a county level, the 2007 Cornwall Landscape Character Assessment • Modern building associated with Bude and Stratton has a strong Landscape Description Units (LDUs) are a representation of a Landscape forms the evidence base for future landscape policy and landscape visual influence. Type in a specific location. LDUs are the building blocks of the Landscape strategies n Cornwall. Character Assessment and are determined by analysing maps of geology, • The network of Cornish hedges form important ecological corridors topography, soils, tree cover character, land use and settlement pattern. Landscape Types are a generic classification for landscape character and many have mature trees. and may occur anywhere in the country where the same combinations The site and its setting lies in Landscape Description Unit (LDU) 320. This • Land use is predominantly agricultural with improved grassland and of physical and cultural landscape attributes are found. These are is a hardrock lowland with shallow brown soils over hard rock. Its cultural pasture a significant amount of which is permanent pasture on valley sometimes broken down into Landscape Description Units (LDU’s) that pattern is typified as dispersed with small farms. Land cover is described as floors, and some arable. are a representation of a Landscape Type in a specific location. LDU’s Settled Pastures. are the building blocks of the Landscape Character Assessment and are • On the coast and along the A39, agricultural diversification and determined by analysing maps of geology, topography, soils, tree cover tourism pressures have resulted in a proliferation of holiday camp 6.4.4. Character Of The Site And Immediate Setting character, land use and settlement pattern. sites and caravan parks on formerly agricultural land. The site is characterised by three irregular grass fields divided by poor The site and its immediate setting lie within the Bude Basin Landscape • This landscape is dominated by medieval derived Anciently Enclosed quality hedgebanks, with hedgerows to the boundaries and a marked Character Type LCA38. Land which forms a medium scale field pattern with sinuous, often lack of tree cover. A few windblown hedgerow trees are on the northern irregular boundaries. Dispersed through the area, there has been Bude Basin Landscape Character Type. boundary. a gradual alteration to this medieval field pattern with 20th century This Landscape Character Type is a basin underlain by sandstone and removal of field boundaries. A number of the hedgerows to the western boundary and the northern shales surrounded by the Culm plateau on three sides, and the sea on boundary are species-rich. The hedgerows to the south-western and • Major settlement in this area is focused around Bude, formerly a the fourth with a relatively straight coastline of low cliffs and long sandy southern boundaries are managed and species poor. minor port and canal town, which has grown with the development beaches. The basin is undulating and is cut by streams running towards the of the tourist industry since the late nineteenth century and is now The hedgerow to the eastern boundary is at the base of the A39 coast, the largest of which is the River Neet. dominated by tourism including modern chalet developments, comprising hedge and post and rail fence - and falls within highway The coast is the focus for significant tourism and related development hotels and caravan and camping sites as well as extensive modern ownership. centred on Bude but extending along the coast. The coastal strip of housing estates. The modern coastal development at Widemouth The site is currently laid to grass and cut for silage. maritime cliff, neutral grassland, scrub and bracken with some heath forms Bay is clearly visible from higher land within this area. part of a SSSI, most of which is also in the Tintagel-Marsland-Clovelly Coast • The area is settled coastal lowland and parts have been spoilt by This is an exposed open site that lies directly adjacent to the visual SAC. tourism development and by expansion of Bude. The A39 provides a and audible detraction of the heavily trafficked A39 and provides an undistinguished, pastoral foreground to wider reaching views beyond, The inland area is a landscape characterised by medium sized fields of busy corridor through the area with associated development. Inland of the coastline. The A39 is predominantly elevated above the site which improved ley/pasture with arable and Cornish hedges . Woodland is there still remains some very attractive rural countryside. enables views across the site and the coastal areas beyond when travelling associated with the valley bottoms but becomes more extensive on the Visions and objectives along the road. steeper and narrower valley sides to the south and north. While much of the area is tranquil, the coast and A39 are busy, particularly in the summer An area of two distinct land uses with the busy coastal strip and the town of There are nearby farm buildings, individual dwellings and the small hamlet months. Bude under pressure from recreation and the tourist trade, and the inland of Coppathorne. The overriding presence however, is that of nearby areas of farmland with tranquil intricate valleys. caravan parks to the south west and north east of the site. Key Characteristics of Bude Basin LCT represented on the site and immediate setting: Preservation of the tranquillity would appear to be a major objective Sensitivity - Moderate. A landscape with moderate value and moderate together with keeping the visual impact of the holiday development to a susceptibility to change. • Major tourism centre on the coast centred on Bude with minimum. commercialised beaches and caravan/camp sites. Sensitivity - High. LCT Bude Basin is highly valued and highly • Inland areas of improved grassland and pasture and arable occurring susceptible to certain types of change. within a medium scale field pattern.
• Woodland generally restricted to small stream valleys.
48 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
Bude Basin LCT Western Culm Plateau LCT Kellan Head to Millook Haven Coast Landscape Description Unit (LDU)
Figure 6.3: Landscape Character and Landscape Description Units Map: Cornwall & Isles of Scilly: Study Area
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 49 6.0
The Site looking from the south eastern corner northwards: An open, gently sloping site, with hedgerows to the boundaries and long distance views beyond to the coastline and sea. Widemouth Farm, on an elevated land rise is a notable feature.
The Site looking from the north eastern corner southwards: The internal Cornish hedge banks break up the rather featureless fields. The telegraph poles are prominent in this open landscape.
The Site looking westwards: The native hedgerows to the western boundary are approx 2m high and species-rich. Visually they link up to the nearby woodland in the valley directing the eye towards the sea. This view is framed by the land rise at Widemouth Farm to the south and land rise near Quinceborough Farm Cottages.
50 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
6.4.5. Land Use
Study Area
The broad land use character in the study area can be divided into five main categories:
• Rural Farmland
• Woodland (+ Natural Habitat) - To the coastline and along valleys
• Tourism and Leisure - Holiday Caravan Parks and Camp Sites
• Seascape and water activities - the Atlantic Coast
• Urban - Widemouth Bay and the associated commercial, residential, tourist uses
Site and Surrounds
The site and immediate surroundings comprises rural farmland. There are localised blocks of woodland in the valleys and natural habitat comprising grassland, scrub and bracken on the coastal edge.
There are four holiday parks within close proximity to the site and many of the dispersed dwellings and farms provide holiday accommodation.
Widemouth Bay is the nearest, and largest urban area which caters extensively to tourist use.
Recommendations:
The context of the nearby woodland (also Priority Habitats) to the site is a sensitive constraint with the opportunity to provide compatible and enhanced biodiversity on the site.
Consideration also needs to be given to the visual effect of the proposed development on the nearby holiday parks.
Woodland Seascape and Urban / Scattered Rural Farmland Tourism and Leisure (and Natural Scrub Water Activities Settlements Habitat)
Figure 6.4: Landscape Character: Site and Surrounds
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 51 6.0
6.4.6. Topography
Study Area
The wider landscape is characterised by open elevated plateau to the south with lowland to the north.
The high land Culm plateau to the south is characterised by a series of high points ranging from 182mAOD at the Beacon in the south west and 165m AOD at Week St. Mary in the south east. These are incised by steep folds, providing intimate steep wooded valleys with narrow steams and convoluted rock formations and headland structures to the coastline with dark cliffs of folded, inter-bedded shales and mudstone wave cut platforms. At the coast the streams often form cliff waterfalls.
The elevated Culm plateau transitions at Treskinick Cross (111m AOD) to a gentler, undulating plateau to the north with a bowl around Widemouth Bay. This lower basin is underlain by sandstones and shales surrounded by the Culm plateau on three sides and the sea on the fourth, with a relatively straight coastline of low, unstable cliffs and long sandy beaches. The basin stretches inland almost to the B3254 with the land form rising gently to 140m AOD.
Figure 6.5: Topography: Wider Study Area
52 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
Site and Surrounds
There is a 20m fall from south to north across the site and 2-5m fall east to west. The lowest point of the site is in the north-western corner at a height of 58.00m AOD. The site in the south eastern corner is at 76.5m AOS+D and the junction of the A39 with Widemouth Road is set higher at 78m AOD.
The A39 is predominantly elevated above the site which enables views across the site and the coastal areas beyond when travelling along the road.
The surrounding land is undulating, with higher land to the east, falling down towards the shallow basin at Widemouth Bay. Two localised high points at Widemouth Farms and Quinceborough Farm Cottages (both at 66m AOD) that lie west of the site, frame views from the site out towards the sea.
Sensitivity of Topography = High. This plays an important role in the landscape character. It is highly valued and highly susceptible to certain types of change.
Recommendations:
Respect the site contours and look to reduce views of the internal road and car parking within the site by creating a ha-ha running north to south to direct views across a subtlety reconfigured terrain planted with native scrub.
Figure 6.6: Topography: Site and Surrounds
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 53 6.0
6.4.7. Access: Vehicular
Study Area A39 The main vehicular route serving the study area is the A39 which also Atlantic Highway follows the eastern boundary of the site.
A series of B roads run from the A39 west and east to the coast and inland respectively.
There are a number of tertiary routes which follow the coastline and inland to the rural areas and farmsteads/camp sites.
The dismantled railway, east of Helscott, is an important feature, with associated hump back bridges and at Woolstone a viaduct forms a local landmark.
A39 Atlantic Highway
0 250m
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Site Boundary Primary Secondary Tertiary Note: route route route Smaller lanes, residential and private access shown on OS Explorer base map
Figure 6.7: Access - Vehicular: Study Area
54 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
A39 Site and Surrounds Atlantic Highway
The site is accessed off Widemouth Road which runs adjacent to the southern boundary of the site. This runs from the A39 to Marine Drive which is the main coastal road to Widemouth Bay and continues north to Bude.
The secondary road, Castle Drive, that runs around the Pendennis Headland is a very popular scenic drive, as too is Cliff Road that runs along the seafront to Falmouth Bay.
There is an existing vehicular access into the site off Widemouth Road.
The site is in a sustainable location in relation to Bus services. Service 95 operated by Transport for Cornwall runs between Truro, St. Columb Major and Bude and its route runs down Widemouth Road to take in Widemouth Bay as part of its service. There is a bus stop on the south side of Widemouth Drive opposite the site.
Recommendations/Opportunities:
In consultation with County Highways, our proposals will include the provision of a pull in bus stop and shelter on the site side of the site. This will be within highways ownership and will need to comply to their design standards. Discussion should be sought to see whether a more bespoke shelter could be provided - one that is more in keeping with the sensitive design approach to the development.
A39 Atlantic Highway
0 100m
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Site Boundary Primary Secondary Tertiary route Potential Note: route route / residential Site Access Smaller farm tracks and holiday park circulation / private shown on OS Mastermap base
Figure 6.8: Access - Vehicular: Site and Surrounds
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 55 6.0
6.4.8. Access: Pedestrian, Cycle and Horse
Study Area
There are a number of public rights of way in the vicinity.
The route of the South West Coastal Path (SWCP) runs along the length of the North Cornwall Coastline. Within the study area it runs atop the cliffs at Millook to Widemouth Bay and continues to Bude.
0 250m
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Site Boundary South West Promoted Routes for walking, PRoW includes Coast Path cycling and horse riding (Cornwall Council) footpaths, byways and bridleways
Figure 6.9: Access - Pedestrian, Cycle and Horse (Public Rights of Way): Study Area
56 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
Site and Surrounds
There is no public right of access through the site.
The nearest Public Right’s of Way are:
• PRoW no. 533/28/1 - a bridleway - which runs from Widemouth Road, between Higher Widemouth Farm, along a hedgerow enclosed track down to Widemouth Bay, approximately 0.65km west of the site;
• PRoW 533/23/1 - a footpath - which runs alongside Widemouth Fields Caravan Park, approximately 0.29km east of the A39 and the site;
• PRoW 533/22/2 - a footpath - which runs from Coppathorne down to Poundstock, on the eastern side of the A39.
The South West Coastal Path (SWCP) runs along the north coast coastline, within the AONB, past Widemouth Bay and continues north past Lower Northbeak car park and on to Bude.
Recommendations:
Consider where potential views towards the site are possible from the public rights of way.
There is the opportunity to provide public access into the site to access the Memorial Gardens and to experience and appreciate the views from the site towards the sea.
0 100m
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Site Boundary PRoW includes footpaths, byways and bridleways
Figure 6.10: Access - Pedestrian, Cycle and Horse (Public Rights Of Way): Site and Surrounds
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 57 6.0
6.4.9. Vegetation Cover
Study Area
The Study area is predominantly agricultural comprising pasture grassland or arable, mainly in medium sized fields with low hedgerow boundaries. Linear woodlands follow the valley bottoms and along the inland water courses. Throughout the study area, the many narrow lanes are mostly enclosed by hedgerows and occasional trees.
There is a noticeable lack of tree cover to the exposed open farmland. The network of Cornish hedges form important ecological corridors and many support mature, windswept trees.
Scrub, maritime cliff neutral grassland and bracken provides a natural edge to the coastline.
Site and Surrounds
The site comprises hedgerows and pasture land with two internal Cornish Hedgebanks.
There is limited tree cover to the area.
Sensitivity of Vegetation = High. The native hedgerows and Cornish hedges play an important role in the local character of the site and surroundings. It is highly valued and highly susceptible to certain types of change.
Recommendations
Retain and protect all hedgerows and Cornish hedges. Look to provide greater ecological connectivity and significantly enhance hedgerow structure, biodiversity and woodland/ tree cover on site.
Agriculture Scrub / Rough Grassland Woodland Grassed Areas and Hard Standing to Campsites and Caravan Parks
Figure 6.11: Vegetation cover: Study Area
58 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
6.4.10. Vegetation Surveys
Assessment under the Hedgerow Regulations The nature and condition of existing vegetation within the site is of The criterion for ecologically important hedges under the ‘wildlife and considerable importance to both the landscape character, the potential landscape’ section of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997, are as follow: visual impact of any development and also the successful integration of mitigation measures. It is important therefore to understand its S6 - The hedgerow contains certain categories of species of birds, composition, condition and future potential. animals or plants listed in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (HM Government, 1981) or the British Red Data Books (Braften et Vegetation Surveys al., 1990; Bratton, 1991; Shirt, 1987; Wiggington,1999).
The vegetation has been subject to a number of surveys: S7 - The hedgerow includes: • Field survey - to assess the vegetation in terms of its quality and • at least 7 schedule 3 woody species, on average in a 30 metre length value to the landscape character, as a design feature or visual • at least 6 schedule 3 woody species, on average in a 30 metre length constraint i.e. screening benefit, containment, definition of space, and has at least 3 associated features (see below) horizon feature - to be retained to the benefit of the site and • at least 6 schedule 3 woody species, on average in a 30 metre length, development. including a black poplar tree, or large-leaved lime, or small-leaved lime or wild service tree • Hedgerow Survey - Hedgerows have been assessed in accordance • at least 5 schedule 3 woody species, on average in a 30 metre length with the methodology outlined in the Hedgerow Survey Handbook and has at least 4 associated features. (DEFRA, 2007) and also assessed for their ‘ecological importance’ under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997 and against criteria for UK The associated features are: Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority habitat, by Code 7 Consulting. • a bank or wall which supports the hedgerow along at least one half of its length • Habitats - Ecological Surveys have been carried out by Code 7 • gaps which in aggregate do not exceed 10% of the length of the Consulting. hedgerow • on average, at least one tree per 50 metres Field Survey • at least 3 schedule 2 woodland species within one metre, in any direction, of the outermost edges of the hedgerow Vegetation within the application site consists of species-rich and species- • a ditch along at least one half of the length of the hedgerow poor hedgerows and Cornish Hedgebanks. A few hedgerow trees are • connections with other hedges, woods or ponds scoring 4 points located in the northern boundary hedgerow. or more (where a connection to another hedge scores 1 and a The boundary hedgerows are important as low screening and containment connection to a broadleaf wood or pond scores 2 features. The internal Cornish Hedgebanks, whilst some are partially • a parallel hedge within 15 metres of the hedgerow defunct, all provide a time depth and sense of place and also provide S8 - The hedgerow is adjacent to a bridleway or footpath, a road used effective spatial subdivision within the site. as a public road or a byway open to all traffic and includes at least 4 Hedgerow Survey woody species, on average, in a 30 metre length and has at least 2 of the associated features listed above. Species Richness Each hedgerow was surveyed on both sides (access permitting) Findings and mapped according to their species richness (Map 1). Using this Hedge 1 - Species-poor. Priority Habitat. methodology a species-rich hedge is classed as one with five or more native woody species present along a 30m length, not including climbers Hedge 2 - Species-rich topped by trees (grey willow, oak and elm); Ditch (other than roses) or bramble. It does not include archeophytes (plants present along length of hedge; Associated ground flora; (9 woody species naturalised before AD1500) and sycamore. 4, woodland herbs); Ecologically Important. Priority Habitat.
Priority Hedgerow habitat Hedge 3 - Mixed with sections of Species-rich; Ditch at base; (4-6 woody Figure 6.12: Phase 1 Habitat /Hedgerow Survey - Code 7 Ecology Priority Hedgerow Habitat is defined as habitat consisting of 80% or more species, 2-3 woodland herbs); Ecologically Important. Priority Habitat. cover, of a least one woody native species. Hedge 4 - Earth bank supporting short section of species-rich hedge; (6
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 59 6.0
6.4.11. Habitat Surveys woody species, 3 woodland species) ditch at base; Rest of bank does not support The site has undergone full Phase 2 ecology surveys for badger, bats, birds, woody species and does not meet criteria as hedge. Priority Habitat hedge dormice, and reptiles, along with a Phase 1 and hedgerow assessment. All section only. surveys were conducted to the appropriate national standard during May – November 2019. Hedge 5 - Species rich hedge on bank and associated ditch at base; (6 woody species, 2 woodland species); Ecologically Important. Priority Habitat. Findings
Hedge 6 - Earth bank does not meet criteria as a hedge; ditch at base both sides (i) Bats – Bats are European protected species. No bat roost was found of bank. within the proposed red line area.
Hedge 7 - Species-poor hedge on bank and associated ditch at base; (3 woody Some limited bat commuting and feeding was identified along the existing species, 1 woodland species); Priority Habitat. hedgerows and account will need to be made to retain these commuting routes and manage any additional lighting within any development Hedge 8 - Species-poor roadside hedge dominated by hawthorn; (3 woody masterplan. species); Priority Habitat. (ii) Birds – small numbers of common breeding birds were found within The hedgerows on the site are a mixture of very species poor hedges which tend the development red line. Any nesting was exclusively within the existing to be located along the road margins together with much more species diverse hedges. Account should be made within the masterplan to provide suitable some of which have a small number of trees. Most of the hedges meet criteria nesting and foraging opportunities within the development masterplan and for Priority Hedgerow Habitat a small number of which are also categorised as greenspace. ‘ecologically important’ under the Hedgerows Regulations. (iii) Reptiles – are protected species under UK Law. They are known to be Account will need to be made to ensure that any Priority Habitat hedges are present on nearby sites and suitable habitat exists on site. However, the Figure 6.12: Bat Survey - Code 7 retained within the greenspace masterplan as Local Plan Policy dictates that 2019 survey did not reveal the presence of any reptiles within the proposed there should be no net loss of this resource. In effect, hedges could be removed, red line. Ecology if it aids the design, but new hedges must be created to ensure that there is no overall loss. (iv) Phase 1 – with the exception of hedges, the Phase 1 survey did not identify any notable priority habitats on site. Account should also be made to ensure that any retained hedges can be managed and a verge of 2-3 metres wide should be retained along the base of Sensitivity of Habitats = High. These are highly valued and any retained hedge. susceptible to certain types of change.
Sensitivity of Ecologically Important and Priority Habitats = Very High value Recommendations: with a very high susceptibility to certain types of change. No significant ecological constraints have been found on site that would Recommendations: prevent potential development. Account must be made to retain the overall quality and quantity of hedges, along with commuting routes for Opportunities to enhance the network of hedgerows for nesting birds and other bats and nesting/foraging opportunities for birds. In practice this will mean fauna can be achieved through the following measures: retaining a viable hedge network along with an adjacent verge.
• Overall retention of the hedgerow network As the site lies within the impact zone of a European Designated Site (a nearby Special Area of Conservation – SAC), Habitats Regulations • Supplementary planting of locally appropriate native trees and shrubs to Assessments to be further investigated with the LPA and Natural England. enhance the range of woody species present Ecology should plays an appropriate role within the design process, so • Introduction of an improved hedge management programme to encourage that meaningful biodiversity net gain is identified within the development a wider range of locally appropriate flowering and fruiting trees and shrubs masterplan, in line with Local Plan Policy i.e. additional hedges, including • Provision of hedgerow buffer zones and wider verges of grassland habitat Cornish hedges, a bat- friendly lighting scheme, the creation of appropriate that is managed for ecological diversity, including the provision of habitat native wildflower grassland, the use of native tree planting and adopting a for reptiles, invertebrates, etc. wildlife-friendly approach to any building design, such as the inclusion of bird nesting and bat roosting opportunities. • Reduction of nutrient inputs to encourage species diversity. Figure 6.13: Bird Nesting - Code 7 Ecology 60 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.06.0
Habitat Metric 6.4.12. Ecological Mitigation, Enhancement and Net Gain Objective Habitat Baseline Habitat Loss Creation & Net Gain Habitat and species mitigation proposals are set out in detail in the Enhancement (Baseline – loss + gain) Ecology Restoration Plan, prepared by Code 7 Consulting. This sets out the detailed aspects of habitat and species mitigation and enhancement Objective 1 : 1,495 metres 537 metres temporary loss. 949 metres retained habitat 494 metres overall habitat gain over baseline that will lead to an overall substantial net gain for biodiversity compared to enhanced the existing baseline. Native hedges 9 metres permanent loss. 949 metres retained habitat enhanced 1,040 metres new habitat The biodiversity net gain metrics for the proposed scheme are set out in created Total 1,989 metres of hedge habitat upon the adjacent table as simple area (ha / sq.m or linear m) measures. Each completion measure shows the: baseline, losses, enhancements and new habitat net (949 meters retained + 1,040 new habitat) gain for each type.
A summary of key mitigation and enhancement outcomes are shown on the Objective 2 : table adjacent. Wildflower NIL NIL 21,490 sq. metres 21,490 sq. metres of new habitat Analysis confirms that there are no overall losses to existing biodiversity grassland value. The retention, enhancement and creation of 1,989 m of existing and Green Roofs NIL NIL 1,280 sq. metres 1,280 sq. metres of new habitat new hedges is notable, and to this will be added, through a programme of habitat creation, 2.15 ha of wildflower grassland, 1.98 ha of native broadleaf woodland and glades, 2,420 sq.m of wetland and 2 new ponds covering Objective 3 : NIL NIL 1,090 sq. metres of existing Net gain of new habitat 1,330 sq. metres 1,190 sq.m. enhanced Broadleaf woodland In combination, these measures will deliver significant biodiversity net gains with glades 1,330 sq. metres of new 1,090 sq. metres of existing habitat enhanced over the existing baseline amounting to an increase of 122.49% habitat habitat created units and 121.84% hedgerow units under the Defra biodiversity metric – significantly in excess of the planning policy target of 10%. Objective 4 : 1,109 sq. metres NIL 1,090 sq. metres of existing Net gain of new habitat 1,330 sq. metres enhanced This will create a combination of habitats that will be a functional Wetland biodiversity reservoir and ‘Hot Spot’ that complements the wider landscape 1,330 sq. metres of new 1,090 sq. metres of existing habitat enhanced and connects directly to it through the network of hedges. habitat created
Objective 5 : NIL NONE 2 New Ponds 1,190 sq. 2 Ponds 1,190 sq. metres metres Ponds/open water
Objective 6 : Phase 1 baseline. NIL 1 Bat House 1 bat house and
Species 2 on-building roosting 2 on-building roosting opportunities enhancements opportunities
1 Bat lighting plan 1 Bat lighting plan
3 Bird nesting opportunities 3 bird nesting opportunities
Objective 7 : NONE N/A 1 Management Plan 1 Management Plan
Aftercare + 1 Condition Monitoring Plan 1 Condition Monitoring Plan condition monitoring
Figure 6.14: Biodiversity Net Gain Metrics - Code 7 Ecology
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 61 7.0 7. Visual Baseline 7.1. Views and Visibility
7.1.1. Visual Baseline
A visual assessment of the site and surroundings was carried out to understand the visual context of the site and establish its visibility within the wider landscape and identify key visual receptors that could be potentially affected by the development.
The assessment of visibility was undertaken on two site visits to inform the selection of the Key Visual Receptors and to take both summer and winter views:
• 14th September 2020 – Sunny. Visibility -16km;
• 30th November 2020 - Overcast. Visibility - 10km. 7.1.2. Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI)
The starting point for assessing potential visual effects from publicly accessible areas is to identify the extent of area from which the Site and proposed development is potentially visible. The Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI), or Visual Envelope as it is sometimes referred to, provides an immediate and easily understood indication of the area within which the proposed development may be visible and potential visual effects experienced.
The Zone of Visual Influence is mapped using a digital model (OS open data ASCII/.xyz). The presence of local screening features such as land form/ridge lines, built form, woodland blocks and tree lines often reduce the actual extent of visibility. Buildings are modelled at 8m above existing ground level and woodland blocks modelled at a height of 15m above existing ground level. (See Figures 7.1). 7.1.3. Existing Zone of Visual Influence
In order to determine the likely Zone of Visual Influence of the proposed re-development of the site we carried out a two-stage, digital mapping exercise. We firstly mapped the existing baseline ZVI of the Site by placing target points on the entire site (refer to Figure 7.1). The Pentire Point AONB was mapped to understand what publicly accessible views are available from this nationally designated area.
The ZVI shows that visibility of the existing site is concentrated to three main areas: locally within the immediate vicinity of the site; a localised elevated area south west of the site within the AONB, and; a localised elevated area north of Widemouth Bay. Due to intervening topography and vegetation visibility from the east is isolated and dispersed.
Figure 7.1 : Existing Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI)
62 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 7.0
7.1.4. Proposed Zone of Visual Influence
We then mapped the proposed ZVI of the proposed development by placing target points on the Site and proposed buildings (refer to Figure 7.2). This demonstrates that there is very little change to the baseline situation, where the extent of visibility of the proposed development is relatively comparable to the extent of visibility of the existing sit with a few localised areas of greater visibility to the east. 7.1.5. Establishing the Key Visual Receptors
Visual receptors are people and comprise individuals or groups of people who are likely to be affected by the proposed development at specific public viewpoints i.e. public rights of way; scenic viewpoints; roads; communal recreation areas and heritage assets where people visit and in some instances it may be appropriate to consider representative private viewpoints from a group of residential properties.
Publicly accessible areas with potential viewpoints of the development were visited - footpaths are walked, roads driven along, recreational viewpoints and representative viewpoints from residential properties reviewed, in order to establish whether the site can be seen, or whether intervening tree cover, topography and / or built form provide screening. Panoramic photographs were taken for each potential viewpoint to record the existing views and notes made.
The key visual receptors were determined based on the following criteria: Distance from the scheme to the receptor; High concentrations of viewers, such as settlements, local recreational facilities; Views illustrating the visual character of the surrounding area; Areas identified as having a high potential for visual impact.
The selected Key Visual Receptors are shown on Figure 7.3 overleaf.
Figure 7.2 : Proposed Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 63 7.0
7.1.6. Key Visual Receptors (KVR’s)
11 KVR’s were identified. These are listed below with their assessed sensitivity:
• KVR 1 - Representative view of road users on A39 travelling south - Medium Sensitivity
• KVR 2 - Representative view of road users on A39 travelling south- Medium Sensitivity
• KVR 3 - Representative view of road users on A39 travelling north- Medium/High Sensitivity
• KVR 4 - Representative view of resident and users of the local bus stop located near the proposed site entrance - High Sensitivity
• KVR 5 - Representative view of users of Public Right of Way and users of Widemouth Fields Holiday Park dog walking field -High Sensitivity
• KVR 6 - Representative view of scenic road user on Widemouth Road - Medium/High Sensitivity
• KVR 7 - Representative view of residents from Higher Widemouth Farm - High Sensitivity
• KVR 8 - Representative view of users of the South West Coastal Path (SWCP) and visitors to the AONB - Very High Sensitivity
• KVR 9 - Representative view of users of the South West Coastal Path (SWCP) and visitors to the AONB - Very High Sensitivity
• KVR 10 - Representative view of visitors at the elevated viewpoint and car park, Lower Longbeak north of Widemouth Bay - High Sensitivity
• KVR 11 - Representative view of users of PRoW 525/2/1 that See Inset Plan 7.4 connects the Atlantic coast /Widemouth Bay with the Bude Canal Trail - High Sensitivity
In order to prevent repetition, the photographic viewpoints of these 11 visual receptors are located in Chapter 8.
An assessment of potential effects for each KVR with a representative photographic viewpoint is in Chapter 8 - Landscape and Visual Effects.
Figure 7.3 : ZVI and Key Visual Receptors plan
64 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 7.0
Figure 7.4 : Key Visual Receptors Inset plan The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 65 8.0 8. Landscape + Visual Effects
8.1. Assessment of Predicted Effects
The landscape and visual baseline has been established within the previous Winter and summer panoramic photographs have been taken of the Key • Introduction of a Ha-Ha and associated ground modeling chapters and the landscape and visual receptors identified for assessment. Visual receptors. This chapter assesses the likely effects of the development upon those • Introduction of SuDS water bodies and widened fields ditches receptors and considers them at three stages: Each photograph shows the visible extents of the proposed development. An associated table for each viewpoint identifies its OS grid location, • Introduction of extensive native tree and scrub planting • During Construction elevation height, distance from the site (to the nearest site boundary), when • Bolstered and enhanced Cornish Hedges the photographs were taken and the weather and visibility conditions. • On completion • Enhanced hedgerow margins The assessment of predicted visual effects of the development during • After 15 years. construction, on completion and after 15 years is set out in a table • Creation of species-rich grassland, species-rich wetland areas and adjacent to the photographic viewpoints to enable ease of reference. The magnitude of effect of a development is measured in terms of its size ditches or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced, its duration and It is accepted that the landscape framework makes a significant After 15 years, the planting and natural habitats will have matured and the reversibility. contribution to the development and this will be subject to seasonal development will have generated permanent changes to the landscape variation, with full leaf cover to all deciduous vegetation from spring to Direct effects may include the loss of, or changes to, landscape elements and visual amenity. The sensitive landscape will provide highly effective autumn and no leaf cover during the winter months. Bearing this in mind and features, for example, and / or key characteristics of the landscape that screening and filtering of views from the wider landscape. the assessment of effects takes a median position and identifies where are critical to its distinctive character and / or to cultural heritage. This also there are significant changes to the nature and exposure of the site. affects visual amenity and perception, and views themselves may also be 8.3. Predicted Landscape Effects lost, or change. 8.1.3. Photomontages 8no. landscape receptors were identified and assessed. These included: The extent of the effects is assessed in terms of the area influenced, usually vegetation, topography, land use, landscape character and landscape considered at different scales (site, local, character area, regional, etc.), The following visual receptors have had Type 3 representational planning designations. Please refer to the tables overleaf for the duration of the effects (for example seasonally as well as the ‘lifetime’ of the photomontages prepared (refer to Methodology for details) to illustrate assessment of effects. development) and their reversibility. what the proposed development will look like on completion and after 15 years: 8.1.1. Assessment of Predicted Landscape Effects • KVR 2 - A39 travelling south
Landscape effects are a consequence of change in the fabric, character and • KVR 3 - A39 travelling north quality of the landscape as a result of development. • KVR 7 - Residents at Widemouth Farms The landscape baseline has been established within the previous chapters and the sensitivity of the receptors identified for assessment. This chapter • KVR 8 - Users of the SWCP and within the AONB assesses the likely effects of the development upon those receptors and considers them during construction, on completion and after 15 years. 8.2. Nature of Effects - Operational
The predicted landscape effects have been tabulated for consistency of On completion the development will generate a number of permanent assessment and to present the results in a clear and concise manner. These landscape changes. The principle activities that could have an effect upon are shown in Section 8.5. the fabric, quality and character of the landscape are as follows:
Please refer to the Ecological Assessment for the assessment of predicted • Introduction of a new Crematorium facility and associated access effects upon nature conservation assets. road and car parking
8.1.2. Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects • Introduction of a new entrance, off-set from Widemouth Road with associated Cornish Hedges, grove of native trees, planting and Visual effects relate to the change in views and the effects on the general species-rich grassland visual amenity experienced by people. The visual baseline has been • Introduction of a new Cornish hedge wall to the perimeter of the established in the previous chapter and 11no. visual receptors have been eastern and southern boundaries identified for assessment.
66 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Predicted Landscape Effects
Level of Effect
Landscape Receptor + Magnitude of Effect During Construction On Completion After 15 Years Sensitivity Moderate during construction, on Moderate Adverse Moderate Beneficial Moderate Beneficial completion/After 15 years Topography Construction works are assessed to have a On completion the predicted effects on After 15 years the predicted effects on topography Size and Scale: Local predicted moderate adverse temporary effect. topography is assessed to be Moderately is assessed to be Moderately Beneficial. Sensitivity - High. Beneficial. Geographical extent: Site level. The topography is an important Ground modelling has been sensitively considered element of the local landscape Duration and reversibility: Temporary forming a critical element of the design to subtly character. during construction/permanent from minimise views of the development. In addition, completion onwards. the Crematorium has taken principals from the ancient barrow burial sites, in part formed from earth bunding with a floating grass roof to ensure it is visually discrete and appears rooted in the landscape.
Minor during construction, Major on Slight Adverse Substantial Beneficial Very Substantial Beneficial completion and After 15 years Vegetation Construction works are assessed to have a On completion the predicted effects on vegetation After 15 years the predicted effects on vegetation Sensitivity - High Size and Scale: Local predicted localised Slight Adverse temporary effect is assessed to be Substantial Beneficial. Integral is assessed to be Very Substantial Beneficial. to a section of existing hedgerow to the southern to the development is a comprehensive green The hedgerow vegetation within the site Geographical extent: Site level. boundary that will be removed to enable access. infrastructure /native planting framework to provide The matured, naturalised mosaic of species- forms an important element of the local greatly enhanced and improved vegetation, rich planting and the effects of the long-term Duration and reversibility: Temporary character. Most hedgerows comprise A Construction Environmental Management biodiversity and visual amenity that is in keeping management and maintenance will provide during construction/permanent from hedge bank. There are very few trees on Plan (CEMP) that includes Tree/Hedgerow with the local landscape character. significant enhanced habitats, biodiversity, visual completion onwards. site, all located within hedgerow. Protection Measures and a Ecology Mitigation and amenity and greatly enhance the landscape Enhancement Plan will be implemented throughout This includes species-rich grass roof, native scrub/ character of the site. A number of the hedgerows are the construction period to ensure protection of tree planting, species-rich grassland, hedgerow species-rich Priority habitats and a few the Root Protection Area (RPA) and canopies of all margins, wetland habitats and bolstered/ enhanced classified as ‘Important’ in Hedgerow hedgerows/trees within and adjacent to the site. existing and new Cornish hedges. A detailed Regulation terms. Some of the Landscape and Ecological Management Plan will hedgerows, particularly those alongside be implemented to ensure planting habitats and the A39 are in unfavourable condition green spaces are managed in the long-term. due to lack of or inappropriate management resulting in gaps in the basal canopy The pasture land is species-poor. agricultural crop.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 67 8.0
Predicted Landscape Effects
Level of Effect
Landscape Receptor + Magnitude of Effect During Construction On Completion After 15 Years Sensitivity Moderate during construction, on Moderate Adverse Neutral Neutral Land Use completion and After 15 years Construction works are assessed to have a On completion the proposed development After 15 years the predicted effects on land use is The proposed development site is Size and Scale: Local predicted Moderate Adverse temporary effect. will result in a major alteration to the baseline assessed as Neutral. currently species-poor, agricultural condition. This change will result in an crop grassland. This is not a UK Geographical extent: Localised. intensification of use to part of the site, notably the priority habitat. It does not lie within a northern section where the proposed Crematorium designated landscape, but contributes Duration and reversibility: Temporary building and services are proposed, whereas the to the predominantly rural agricultural during construction/permanent from southern section of the site will be retained as open landscape of the surrounding area. This completion onwards. meadow land. The development will also introduce however is influenced by the tourism regular activity and movement onto the site. presence/proliferation of holiday Collectively, the development will have a Moderate caravan parks nearby. Adverse effect on land use, however the extensive mitigation that includes locating the building to the Sensitivity - Medium farthest and lowest corner of the site, together with integrated ground modelling and Ha-Ha to screen
views of movement and use is beneficial. It is assessed overall that this will result in an permanent residual Neutral effect. The development does not seek to alter the landscape components of hedge banks, hedgerows and grassland rather to significantly enhance their condition, visual amenity, character and biodiversity through design and long term ecological management. Moderate Moderate Adverse Slight Beneficial Moderate Beneficial
Landscape Character Size and scale: Local Construction works are assessed to have a On completion the proposed development is After 15 years the predicted effects on landscape predicted Moderate Adverse temporary effect. predicted to have a negative effect in relation to character is assessed to be Moderate Beneficial. The Culm NCA/ Bude Basin,Landscape Geographical extent: Very small, it the tranquillity of the site due to the introduction Character Type makes up a very small proportion of the of new movement and activity. However, this has The matured, naturalised mosaic of species-rich national, regional and local landscape native scrub and tree planting, Cornish hedge Sensitivity - High. been effectively mitigated through sensitive design character e.g. the use of a Ha-Ha and ground modelling banks, pasture land and wetland habitats and the to effectively hide the road, car movement and effects of the long-term management will have Duration and reversibility: Temporary parking and setting the Crematorium building into noticeable beneficial effects to the landscape during construction/ permanent the land. In addition, the significant enhancements character bringing greater visual and aesthetic thereafter. to the sites landscape components, condition, diversity to the sites tapestry. aesthetic and perceptual qualities - with the creation of a semi-wild, naturalised and biodiverse setting will all contribute to enhancing the landscape character. It is assessed therefore that on completion there will be a Slight Beneficial change to the national, regional and local landscape character.
Planting/habitats however will be their its infancy and require time to mature.
68 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Predicted Landscape Effects
Level of Effect
Landscape Receptor + Magnitude of Effect During Construction On Completion After 15 Years Sensitivity Landscape Planning Designation: None during Construction, Minor on None Negligible Beneficial Slight Beneficial completion and After 15 years. AONB Construction works are assessed to result in no It is assessed that on completion there will be a It is assessed that After 15 Years there will be Sensitivity - Very High Size and Scale: Local predicted change to the existing AONB. Negligible Beneficial change to the AONB setting. a Slight Beneficial change to the setting of the AONB, notably the improved and matured The Pentire Point to Widemouth AONB Geographical extent: Localised. The development meets a number of the AONB landscape integration of the A39 and greatly lies west and south of the site, covering Management Objectives, notably: improves enhanced landscape framework and habitats. land between the A39 and the coastline. Duration and reversibility: Temporary landscape integration of the A39, B3314, B3263, It is the largest section of the Cornwall during construction/permanent from and other major roads with the rural AONB setting AONB on the north coast. completion onwards. by improved planting design and management; supports a landscape scale approach to extending The site lies outside the AONB but and connecting currently fragmented locally is within approximately 0.9km of its characteristic habitats, and proposes the planting nearest boundary west of Widemouth of local provenance native tree species such as Bay Caravan Park. Sessile Oak, Hazel and Alder to act as a future seed source for native woodland establishment Given the proximity to the AONB and where this is currently absent or sparse to assist its nationally important designation, it subsequent natural regeneration. has been an important consideration in the development of the site. The planting/habitats will however be in their infancy and require time to mature.
Minor during Construction, on Slight Adverse Slight Beneficial Slight/Moderate Beneficial completion and After 15 Years AGLV Construction works to the southern boundary of It is assessed that on completion there will be a It is assessed that After 15 Years there will be a Sensitivity - High Size and Scale: Local the site are assessed to have a predicted localised Slight Beneficial change to the AGLV setting. Slight/Moderate Beneficial change to the setting of Slight Adverse temporary effect to the nearby the AGLV with the matured and greatly enhanced The Week St Mary AGLV is locally Geographical extent: Localised. setting of the AGLV. The development is underpinned by the significant quality of the landscape framework and mosaic designated - identified as an area of enhancement of the sites landscape quality and of ecological habitats that contribute to an Duration and reversibility: Temporary high landscape quality with strong and character, which supports the primary objective of enhancement of the landscape character. distinctive characteristics. The primary during construction/permanent from the AGLV local designation. objective of AGLV’s is conservation and completion onwards. enhancement of their landscape quality and character.
The site lies outside the AGLV but is close to its boundary which runs to the south of Widemouth Road. Given the proximity it has been an important consideration in the development of the site.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 69 8.0
Predicted Landscape Effects
Level of Effect
Landscape Receptor + Magnitude of Effect During Construction On Completion After 15 Years Sensitivity Landscape Planning Designation: None during construction, Minor on Neutral Slight Beneficial Slight Beneficial completion and After 15 years Public Rights of Way (PRoW) Construction works are assessed to have no It is assessed that on completion there will be After 15 years the predicted effects on public rights Sensitivity - High Size and Scale: Local temporary effect on the baseline condition of an enhanced beneficial change to the baseline of way is assessed to be Slight Beneficial. existing PRoW’s. situation. There is currently no public right of Geographical extent: Localised. access through the site. There is currently no public access, however the Duration and reversibility: Temporary development proposals includes new open spaces The nearest Public Right’s of Way are: during construction/permanent from and a naturalised Memorial garden for the public completion onwards. to visit, reflect and remember loved ones. PRoW no. 533/28/1 - a bridleway from Widemouth Road, between Higher Widemouth Farm to Widemouth Bay, approximately 0.65km west of the site;
PRoW 533/23/1 - a footpath alongside Widemouth Fields Caravan Park, approximately 0.29km east of the site;
PRoW 533/22/2 - a footpath from Coppathorne down to Poundstock, on the eastern side of the A39.
Minor during Construction, on Slight Adverse Slight Beneficial Slight/Moderate Beneficial completion and After 15 Years Heritage Coast Construction works to the southern boundary of It is assessed that on completion there will be a It is assessed that After 15 years there will be a Sensitivity - High Size and Scale: Local the site are assessed to have a predicted localised Slight Beneficial change to the Heritage Coast Slight /Moderate Beneficial change to the Heritage Slight Adverse temporary effect to the nearby setting. Coast setting. Heritage coasts were established Geographical extent: Localised. setting of the Heritage Coast. to conserve the best stretches of The special character of the area has fundamentally The landscape framework and habitats will have undeveloped coast in England. They are Duration and reversibility: Temporary underpinned and influenced the landscape-led matured to greatly enhance the special character ‘defined’ rather than designated. during construction/permanent from response to the development proposals to ensure of the site which lies within close proximity to the completion onwards. it is wholly in-keeping and enhances its setting. The setting of the Heritage Coast. The site lies outside the Heritage Coast planting however is in its infancy and will require but is close to its boundary which runs time to mature. to the south of Widemouth Road. Given the proximity it has been an important consideration in the development of the site.
70 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
8.4. Summary of Landscape Effects
There have been 8 landscape receptors identified and their level/nature Slight/Moderate Beneficial Permanent residual Substantial Beneficial effects are predicted on the and duration of effect assessed. • Landscape Planning Designations - AGLV components that contribute towards the landscape character of the site • Landscape Planning Definition - Heritage Coast and setting. Integral to the development is the matured, comprehensive 8.4.1. Temporary Construction Effects green infrastructure /native planting framework that provides greatly Moderate Beneficial enhanced and improved vegetation, biodiversity and visual amenity - all None • Topography reflective of the local landscape character. • Landscape Planning Designations - AONB • Landscape Character The topography has been sensitively considered, forming a critical element Neutral Very Substantial Beneficial of the design to subtly minimise views of the development. In addition, • Landscape Planning Designations - Public Rights of Way • Vegetation the Crematorium has taken principals from the ancient barrow burial sites, in part formed from earth bunding with a floating grass roof to ensure it is Slight Adverse 8.4.4. Summary of Landscape Effects visually discrete and appears rooted in the landscape. • Vegetation • Landscape Planning Designations - AGLV The proposed development will result in a notable alteration to the In terms of the nationally designated Pentire Point to Widemouth AONB, • Landscape Planning Definition - Heritage Coast baseline condition, changing from farmed agricultural crop grassland to a the site is nearly 1km distance from the nearest boundary of the AONB, sensitively designed Crematorium and Memorial Gardens exemplar. It does however the development, will result in Slight Beneficial residual effects Moderate Adverse not seek to alter the landscape components of hedge banks, hedgerows since it meets a number of the AONB Management Objectives, notably: • Landscape Character and grassland rather to significantly enhance their condition, visual amenity, improving landscape integration of the A39 with the rural AONB setting • Land Use character and biodiversity through design and long term ecological by improved planting design and management; supporting a landscape management. scale approach to extending and connecting currently fragmented locally • Topography characteristic habitats, and proposing the planting of local provenance The changes during construction are predicted to have Moderate 8.4.2. Permanent Effects On Completion native tree species such as Sessile Oak, Hazel and Alder to act as a future Adverse effects on a number of receptors, notably landscape character, seed source for native woodland establishment where this is currently topography, land use and Slight Adverse effects on vegetation. Slight Neutral absent or sparse to assist subsequent natural regeneration. Adverse effects are also predicted for a localised area of the setting on • Land Use the AGLV and Heritage Coast to the southern end of the site only. These In terms of the locally designated Area of Great landscape Value, whilst Negligible Beneficial discordant effects are temporary and due to the nature of construction, not the site lies just outside the AGLV boundary, the proposed development • Landscape Planning Designations - AONB unexpected. will result in beneficial effects to its setting. The development is underpinned by the significant enhancement of the sites landscape Slight Beneficial On completion the proposed development will result in a major alteration quality and character, which supports the primary objective of the AGLV • National Regional and Local Landscape Character to land use. This change will result in an intensification of use to part of local designation. This is further enhanced by the substantial beneficial the site, notably the northern section where the proposed Crematorium • Landscape Planning Designations - AGLV biodiversity net gains. These beneficial effects are also predicted on the building and services are proposed, whereas the southern section of the setting of the defined Heritage Coast. • Landscape Planning Designations - Public Rights of Way site will be retained predominantly as open meadow land with an access • Landscape Planning Definition - Heritage Coast road. The development will also introduce regular activity and movement Slight Beneficial effects are also predicted on Public Rights of Way. onto the site. Collectively, the development will have a Moderate Adverse There is currently no public access into or through the site, however Moderate Beneficial effect on land use, however the extensive mitigation that includes locating the development proposals include new open spaces and a naturalised • Topography the building to the farthest and lowest corner of the site, together with Memorial garden for the public to visit, reflect and remember loved ones. Substantial Beneficial integrated ground modelling and Ha-Ha to screen views of movement and • Vegetation use is beneficial. It is assessed overall that this will result in an permanent 8.5. Predicted Visual Effects residual Neutral effect. 8.4.3. Permanent Residual Effects After 15 Years 8.5.1. Key Visual Receptors In terms of the landscape character the proposed development is Neutral predicted to have a negative effect in relation to the tranquility of the site The assessment of predicted visual effects for the 11 receptors is set out in • Land Use due to the introduction of new movement and activity. However, this has sections 8.8 to 8.18 overleaf. been effectively mitigated through sensitive design as described above Slight Beneficial and the significant enhancements to the sites landscape components, • Landscape Planning Designations - AONB condition, aesthetic and perceptual qualities - with the creation of a semi- • Landscape Planning Designations - Public Rights of Way wild, naturalised and biodiverse setting. The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 71 8.0 8.6. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 1 I A39 south Summer View
Visible extent of proposed development
Description of Existing Viewpoint 1 - Looking south on the A39 Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of road users on the A39. Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 71.676m (accuracy +/- 2.212m) Open and expansive views of the surrounding rolling countryside. The central section of the Site is clearly visible in the direct line of view, lying directly adjacent to the road, sitting below the skyline. Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 0.26km (to nearest site boundary) Whilst road users are travelling at speed, this is a busy, primary road and well-used visitor route, where views of the landscape contribute to the value of the setting. Road users attention is not Time: 10:30am Time: 10:40am Easting: 221271.543 solely focused on the view whilst passing through the landscape.
Sensitivity: Medium/High Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 101157.020
Winter View Visible extent of proposed development
72 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Moderate- Noticeable change to the Size and Scale of change: Moderate - Noticeable change to the Size and Scale of change: Major - Noticeable change to the composition and composition of the view. composition of the view. quality of the view.
Geographical extent: Moderate - It forms a small proportion of the existing Geographical extent influenced: Moderate - It forms a small proportion of Geographical extent influenced: Moderate - It forms a small proportion of the view, but is within the direct sight line, 260m from the receptor. the existing view, but is within the direct sight line, 260m from the receptor. existing view, but is within the direct sight line, 260m from the receptor.
Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Duration and reversibility: Permanent Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Slight/Moderate Adverse Neutral (permanent) Moderate Beneficial (residual) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of permanent visual effect on completion is assessed The predicted level of residual visual effect after 15 years is assessed as assessed as Slight/Moderate Adverse. as Neutral where the proposals have neither a positive or negative effect Moderate Beneficial. and the associated fully integrated mitigation represents an indiscernible Construction activity related to the ground modelling and access road / change to the quality of the view. The woodland, hedgerow and native scrub will have significantly grown and car park and planting will introduce a number of temporary discordant matured, together with on-going management, to provide a leafy, naturalised elements into a framed proportion of the view. Expansive views beyond of Whilst there is a substantial change to the site’s land use and character treed setting to the boundary with the A39. The primary tree species planted the coastal headland will remain uninterrupted. from agricultural open fields to a new Crematorium facility, the extensive are Quercus petraea (Sessile oak), the same species currently growing to the landscape, design and ecological integration provides a greatly enhanced southern boundary of the site and on the eastern side of the A39. This will These views will be transitional, viewed by vehicle users on the A39, as they sense of place, reintroducing local characteristic features and habitats that frame and contain the view and provide an enhanced continuity of character. are driving. strongly reflect and complement the local landscape. Due to the exposure of the site these will be limited in height and the expansive views beyond of the coastal headland will remain uninterrupted. The existing Cornish hedges within the site are retained and enhanced with subtle ground modelling rising up from along the A39, with native woodland planting mix and grass/wildflower glades atop. This, combined
Level of Effect Level of Effect with subtle bunding and native scrub and tree planting around the Level of Effect proposed car parks will effectively conceal views of the internal road and car parking.
The southern most part of the site that is partially in view will retain its open, grassland qualities and with the use of the Ha-Ha will effectively screen views of vehicles on the internal road.
The planting to the scheme however will be in its infancy and will require time to mature.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 73 8.0 8.7. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 2 I A39 south
Visible extent of proposed development site Summer View
Description of Existing Viewpoint 2 - Looking south on the A39 Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of road users on the A39. Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 67.123m (accuracy +/- 5.0m) Open and expansive views with direct views into the Site, lying directly adjacent to the road. Higher Widemouth Farm on the skyline looking out towards the coast is a landmark feature. The rolling Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 23m (to nearest site topography to the coastline is a noticeable feature of the landscape. boundary)
The hedgerow to the site’s eastern boundary is at the base of the road embankment and does not provide Time: 10:40am Time: 10:50am Easting: 221108.879 an effective screen.
Whilst road users are travelling at speed, this is a busy, primary road and well-used visitor route, Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 100958.440 where views of the landscape contribute to the value of the setting. Road users attention is not solely focused on the view whilst passing through the landscape. Sensitivity: Medium/High
Winter View Visible extent of proposed development site
74 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Major - Substantial change to the composition of Size and Scale of change: Major - Substantial change to the composition of Size and Scale of change: Major - Substantial change to the composition of the the view. the view. view.
Geographical extent: Major - It forms a large proportion of the existing Geographical extent influenced: Major - It forms a large proportion of the Geographical extent influenced: Major - It forms a large proportion of the view, 23m from the receptor. existing view, 23m from the receptor. existing view, 23m from the receptor.
Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Duration and reversibility: Permanent Residual Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Substantial Adverse Neutral (permanent) Moderate/Substantial Beneficial (permanent residual) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral, The predicted level of permanent residual visual effect after 15 years is assessed assessed as Substantial Adverse. where the proposals have neither a positive or negative effect and the as Moderate/Substantial Beneficial, where the proposals greatly enhance the associated fully integrated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to sense of place and result in a major improvement to the view. Construction activity related to the development, including ground the quality of the view. modelling,access road, car park, Crematorium building and planting will, The vegetation will have significantly grown and matured, together with on- not unexpectedly, be directly visible at this point, and be experienced Whilst there is a substantial change to the site’s land use and character going management, to provide a naturalised, green setting. along the stretch of the A39 running adjacent to the site. from agricultural open fields to a new Crematorium facility, the extensive landscape, design and ecological integration provides a greatly enhanced It is expected, after 15 years, that the native tree / scrub planting will have The views beyond of the coastal headland will still be visible. sense of place, reintroducing local characteristic features and habitats that reached a height of approximately 4.5-5m high. This is due to the exposed strongly reflect and complement the local landscape. nature of the site and will be very much in character with the local landscape These views will be transitional, viewed by vehicle users on the A39, as they character. Some of the trees will be wind blown, providing interesting and eye- are driving. The use of subtle ground modelling rising up from along the A39, with catching natural features and the overriding effect will be a naturalised, bio- native woodland planting mix and grass/wildflower glades atop restores diverse, treed setting to the A39. With the small woodland opposite the site, characteristic woodland elements along the A39. The architectural nature this will provide a sense of containment to this stretch of the road. of the single-storey building takes its inspiration and form from the ancient long barrow burial sites, integrating ground hugging grass bunds with a The open grassland to the southern most part of the site will be well-established floating plane of a green roof structure. and maintain an open, pastoral quality. The restored and new Cornish hedge banks will have matured to reinforce the unique local characteristics and This combined with subtle bunding and native scrub/tree planting around qualities. They will also provide visual filtering which, together with the use of
Level of Effect Level of Effect the proposed car park and the wild flower grass roof to the Crematorium Level of Effect the Ha-Ha, will reinforce screened views of vehicles on the internal road. building provides a seamless transition from landscape to sky. This will effectively conceal views of the internal road, car parking and single storey facility and directs the eye beyond to Higher Widcombe Farms on the skyline and the wider coastal landscape beyond.
The southern most part of the site will retain its open, grassland qualities and with the use of the Ha-Ha will effectively screen views of vehicles on the internal road.
The height of the earth bunding has been carefully designed to provide effective concealment from day one - appearing as a subtle and integral part of the land with the planting intended to provide a ‘native green framework’ and greatly enhance habitat diversity.
At this stage, the vegetation will be in its infancy and will require time to mature.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 75 8.0
Viewpoint (KVR) 2 I A39 south - Photomontage of proposed development: On Completion
Viewpoint (KVR) 2 I A39 south - Photomontage of proposed development: After 15 Years
76 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
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The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 77 8.0 8.8. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 3 I A39 north Summer View
Visible extent of proposed development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 3 - Looking north on the A39 Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of road users travelling north on the A39. Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 74.339m (accuracy +/- 1.380m) Direct and slightly elevated view along the full extent of the site. Higher Widemouth Farm on the skyline looking out towards the coast is a landmark feature. The rolling topography along the coastline is a Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 3.5m (to nearest site noticeable feature of the landscape and there are long-distance views to the distinctive and prominent boundary) large white satellites of Bude GCHQ on the horizon. Large blocks of woodland within an open and Time: 11:10am Time: 11:30am Easting: 220954.902 relatively exposed landscape, with little hedgerow tree cover is a noticeable feature of the landscape.
The hedgerow to the site’s eastern boundary lies at the base of the road embankment and does not Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 100713.404 provide effective screening of the site.
Whilst road users are travelling at speed, this is a busy, primary road and well-used visitor route, where views of the landscape contribute to the value of the setting. Road users attention is not solely focused on the view whilst passing through the landscape. Sensitivity: Medium/High
Winter View Visible extent of proposed development site
78 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Moderate - Substantial change to the Size and Scale of change: Major - Substantial change to the composition Size and Scale of change: Major - Substantial change to the composition and composition of the view. and quality of the view. quality of the view.
Geographical extent: Major - It forms a large proportion of the existing Geographical extent influenced: Major - It forms a large proportion of the Geographical extent influenced: Major - It forms a large proportion of the view, 3.5m from the receptor. existing view, 3.5m from the receptor. existing view, 23m from the receptor.
Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Duration and reversibility: Permanent Residual Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Substantial Adverse Neutral (permanent) Moderate/Substantial Beneficial (permanent residual) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral, The predicted level of permanent residual visual effect after 15 years is assessed assessed as Substantial Adverse. where the proposals have neither a positive or negative effect and the as Moderate/Substantial Beneficial, where the proposals result in the restoration associated fully integrated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to of local characteristic features and habitats, greatly enhances the sense of place Construction activity related to the development, including ground the quality of the view. and results in a significant improvement to the view. modelling,access road, car park, Crematorium building and planting will, not unexpectedly, be directly visible at this point, and be experienced along Whilst there is a substantial change to the site’s land use and character The vegetation will have significantly grown and matured, together with on- the stretch of the A39 running adjacent to and elevated, above the site. from agricultural open fields to a new Crematorium facility, the extensive going management, to provide a naturalised, diverse tapestry of habitats and landscape, design and ecological integration provides a greatly enhanced green setting. The views beyond of the coastal headland will still be visible. sense of place, reintroducing local characteristic features and habitats that strongly reflect and complement the local landscape. It is expected, after 15 years, that the native tree / scrub planting will have These views will be transitional, viewed by vehicle users on the A39 as they reached a height of approximately 4.5-5m high. This is due to the exposed are driving northbound. These visual receptors are assessed as having a Elevated, distant views across the site of the coastline will be retained, with nature of the site and will be very much in character with the local landscape Medium/High Sensitivity, where views of the landscape contribute to the the south-eastern boundary bound only by a native hedge/Cornish hedge character. Some of the trees will be wind blown, providing interesting and eye- setting, however the road users view, on such a busy road, is primarily bank to maintain this sense of openness. The open, grassland qualities of catching natural features and the overriding effect will be a naturalised, bio- focused on the road. the wild flower grassland together with the Ha-Ha will effectively screen diverse, treed setting to the A39 with open uninterrupted views of the coastline views of vehicles on the internal road. and sea retained. The extensive naturalised woodland glade planting will have matured to provide an extended wooded setting to the northern section of the The use of subtle ground modelling along the eastern boundary with site, that will blend into to the surrounding woodland areas. native woodland planting and grass/wild flower glades atop will restore characteristic woodland elements along the A39 and draw the eye slightly The open grassland to the southern end of the site will be well-established upwards. Combined with the restoration, enhancement and new internal providing an open, pastoral quality and maintain open views beyond the sit to
Level of Effect Level of Effect Cornish hedge banks, and the subtle bunding and native scrub/tree Level of Effect the sea and coastal landscape. planting around the proposed car parks, this will effectively conceal views of the internal road and car parking and direct the eye beyond to the wider The restored and new Cornish hedge banks will have matured to reinforce coastal landscape and sea beyond. the unique local characteristics and qualities. They will also provide visual filtering which, together with the framework of native woodland /scrub planting The Crematorium building, bedded into ground hugging grass bunds and and grassland / wetland habitats will provide a greatly enhanced bio-diverse stone walls, with a floating wildflower grassland roof structure sits low in the landscape tapestry and sense of place. landscape, with partial views of the upper structure and green roof, which is effective in providing a subtle transition from landscape to sky.
The height of the earth bunding has been carefully designed to provide effective concealment from day one - appearing as a subtle and integral part of the land with the planting intended to provide a ‘native green framework’ and greatly enhance habitat diversity.
At this stage, the new planting will be in its infancy and will require time to mature to make a greater positive and beneficial contribution to the view.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 79 8.0
Viewpoint (KVR) 3 I A39 north - Photomontage of proposed development: On Completion
Viewpoint (KVR) 3 I A39 north - Photomontage of proposed development: After 15 Years
80 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
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The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 81 8.0 8.9. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 4 I Widemouth Road
Summer View
Description of Existing Viewpoint 4 - Widemouth Road Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of resident and users of the local bus stop located near the proposed site entrance. Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 76.843m (accuracy +/- 1.865 ) A managed, species-poor hedge atop an embankment provides screening into the site and provides rural qualities to Widemouth Road. There is a noticeable lack of tree cover. Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 12.5m (to nearest site boundary) Regular fast traffic on the A39 is very visible to the periphery and the noise is highly audible. Time: 11:20am Time: 12:00pm Easting: 220848.592
Sensitivity: High Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 100562.515
Winter View
82 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Minor - Noticeable change to the composition of Size and Scale of change: Minor - Noticeable change to the composition of the Size and Scale of change: Moderate - Noticeable change to the the view. view. composition of the view. Geographical extent: Major - It forms a major proportion of the existing Geographical extent: Major - It forms a major proportion of the existing view, Geographical extent: Major - It forms a major proportion of the existing view, 12.5m from the receptor. 12.5m from the receptor. view, only 12.5m from the receptor. Duration and reversibility: Permanent Duration and reversibility: Permanent Residual Duration and reversibility: Temporary Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Moderate Adverse Neutral (permanent) Slight Beneficial (permanent residual) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of permanent residual visual effect after 15 years is assessed assessed as Moderate Adverse. The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral, as Slight Beneficial with a slight improvement to the quality of the view. where the proposals have neither a positive or negative effect and the asso- During the construction period, construction activity will introduce ciated fully integrated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to the The hedgerow vegetation to the Cornish Banks will have significantly grown and temporary moderate discordant elements into this elevated, direct view quality of the view. matured, together with on-going management, to provide an enhanced sense close to the entrance of the site. Visible construction works likely to be of place. visible will include the new road access threshold, the Bus Stop and The existing species-poor hedge that is the predominant feature in view shelter and new Cornish Hedgebanks to the southern and south eastern will be replaced by a Cornish Hedgebank - supporting a diverse native It is expected, after 15 years, that the native tree / scrub planting to the boundaries. hedgerow and species-rich grassland margins - introducing an intrinsic and threshold entrance will have reached a height of approximately 4.5-5m high. enhanced feature of the local landscape. The entrance threshold will intro- This is due to the exposed nature of the site and will be very much in character duce an oblique view of a copse of native feature trees and native scrub, with the local landscape character. Some of the trees will be wind blown, which will enhance this currently treeless and uniform hedge boundary. The providing interesting and eye-catching natural features. These will all contribute planting will be its infancy and will require time to mature. to a more diverse, textural setting. Level of Effect Level of Effect Level of Effect
The required Bus Stop/shelter will be visible, and whilst introducing a urbanising element, is a small and generally accepted feature to be seen on the roadside.
Weighed up in the round, the proposals will represent a change to the features in view but these represent no indiscernible change to the quality of the view.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 83 8.0 8.10. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 5 I PRoW 533/23/1 by Widemouth Fields Holiday Park
Visible extent of proposed Summer View development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 5 - Looking south-west from PRoW 533/23/1 Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of users of Public Right of Way and users of Widemouth Fields Holiday Park dog Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 70.205m (accuracy walking field. +/- 1.295m)
Partial views of the more elevated southern end of the site are possible from this location. Intervening Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 0.29km (to nearest site hedgerow and tree vegetation effectively screens the northern section of the site. boundary)
The traffic and noise on the A39 is both clearly visible and audible. There are long distance views of the Time: 10:55am Time: 10:00am Easting: 221384.996 indented coastline on the skyline.
Sensitivity: High Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 101012.231
Visible extent of proposed development site Winter View
84 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Minor - Minor changes to the composition of the Size and Scale of change: Minor - Minor changes to the composition of the Size and Scale of change: Minor/Moderate - Minor/Moderate changes to the view. view. composition of the view.
Geographical extent influenced: Moderate - It forms a moderate Geographical extent influenced: Moderate - It forms a moderate Geographical extent influenced: Moderate proportion of the existing panoramic view, 0.29km distance from the proportion of the existing panoramic view, 0.29km distance from the receptor. receptor. Duration and reversibility: Permanent Residual
Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Slight Adverse Neutral (permanent) Slight Beneficial (permanent residual) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral, The predicted level of permanent residual visual effect after 15 years is assessed assessed as Slight Adverse. where the proposals have neither a positive or negative effect and the as Slight Beneficial where the proposals will slightly enhance the sense of place associated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to the quality of and result in a slight improvement to the view. During the construction period, construction activity will introduce very the view. partial and limited temporary, discordant elements into the view. The traffic The vegetation will have significantly grown and matured, together with on- on the A39 in front of the site however is the greatest visual detractor. Views within the site are very limited and of the southern section only. going management, to provide a naturalised, green setting. The use of the Ha-Ha, subtle ground modelling and native woodland planting will effectively screen the internal road and vehicles from view. The It is expected, after 15 years, that the native tree / scrub planting will have proposed Crematorium building will be screened by existing intervening reached a height of approximately 4.5-5m high. This is due to the exposed
Level of Effect Level of Effect vegetation. Level of Effect nature of the site and will be very much in character with the local landscape character. Some of the trees will be wind blown, providing interesting and eye- The proposed planting will provide a ‘native green framework’ and greatly catching natural features and the overriding effect will be a naturalised, bio- enhance habitat diversity. However, at this stage, it will be in its infancy and diverse, treed setting to the A39 with open uninterrupted views retained of the will require time to mature. coastline landscape beyond.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 85 8.0 8.11. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 6 I Widemouth Road (east)
Summer View
Visible extent of proposed development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 6 - Looking east from Widemouth Road Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of road users of Widemouth Road, that links Widemouth Bay with the A39. This is a Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 68.366m (accuracy narrow, winding lane, well-used by locals and visitors. There is an isolated, glimpsed partial view of the +/- 7.271m) southern end of the site from this location. Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 0.48km (to nearest site Sensitivity: Medium - Representative of people whose attention is not solely focused on the view, boundary) or with a fleeting period of exposure to the view. A viewer with a moderate susceptibility to change Time: 11:30am Time: 12:50pm Easting: 220401.136 with some interest in their surroundings and a moderate value placed upon the view.
Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 100851.262
Winter View Visible extent of proposed development site
86 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Minor - Moderate changes to the composition of Size and Scale of change: Minor - Barely perceptible changes to the Size and Scale: Minor the view. composition of the view. Geographical extent: Minor Geographical extent: Minor - It forms a moderate proportion of the Geographical extent: Minor - It forms a very small proportion of the existing framed view, 0.48km distance from the receptor. existing view, 0.48km from the receptor. Duration and reversibility: Permanent
Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Slight Adverse Neutral (permanent) Slight Beneficial (permanent) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral, It is assessed that the level of effect to this receptor after 15 years will be Slight assessed as Slight Adverse. where the proposals will have neither a positive or negative effect and the Beneficial. associated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to the quality of Construction activity related to the ground modelling and access road, Ha- the view. The extensive native planting, bolstered hedgerows and habitats will have Ha, car park and planting will introduce a number of temporary discordant matured to provide a bio-diverse planting tapestry. This will provide an elements into a proportion of the view. The southern section of the site in view will be retained as open, pastoral enhanced vegetated boundary to the southern section of the site that is in view grassland. The vertical walled element of the Ha-Ha is predicted to be and will also effectively filter views of the intermittent vehicles within the site. These views will be transitional and fleeting, viewed by vehicle users on the partially visible, however as a local stone wall this will be in-keeping and rural, winding Widemouth Road, where their main focus will be on the road. blend in with the local landscape character. Partial and fleeting views of vehicles within the site may be possible, however, since there are existing Level of Effect Level of Effect Level of Effect views of vehicles on the much heavier trafficked A39, this will not be out of character.
There is significant bolstered tree and shrub planting to the western hedgerow boundary but this will be in its infancy and require time to mature.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 87 8.0 8.12. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 7 I Higher Widemouth Farms Summer View Visible extent of proposed development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 7 - Looking north from Higher Widemouth Farms Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of residents from Higher Widemouth Farm. An elevated and expansive view looking Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 67.727m (accuracy eastward with the mid and southern extents of the Site visible below the skyline. The well treed woodland +/- 2.581m) blocks to the north west of the site effectively screen the northern section of the site. Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 0.63km (to nearest site There are clear views of traffic on the A39 and the noise is audible. boundary)
The nearby PRoW which runs to the rear of Widemouth Farm was tested but no views of the site are Time: 11:55am Time: 1:10pm Easting: 220297.566 possible from this PRoW due to both the farm buildings and tall and enclosed Cornish hedgerows screening the view. Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 101055.652 Sensitivity: High. Resident at home with prolonged viewing opportunities.
Winter View
Visible extent of proposed development site
88 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Moderate - Noticeable change to the Size and Scale of change: Minor - Noticeable changes to the composition Size and Scale: Minor composition and quality of a long but narrow section of the site in view. The of the view. site sits below the skyline. Geographical extent: Minor Geographical extent: Minor - It forms a proportion of the existing view, Geographical extent: Minor - It forms a proportion of the existing view, 0.63km from the receptor. Duration and reversibility: Permanent 0.63km from the receptor. Duration and reversibility: Permanent
Magnitude of effect Duration and reversibility: Temporary Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Slight /Moderate Adverse Neutral (permanent) Slight/Moderate Beneficial (permanent) It is assessed that the level of effects during construction will be Slight/ The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral, It is assessed that the level of effect to this receptor after 15 years will be Slight/ Moderate Adverse and would cause a limited deterioration to a propor- where the proposals will have neither a positive or negative effect and the Moderate Beneficial. tion of the quality of the wide panoramic view, which extends beyond that associated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to the quality of shown on the panoramic photograph. the view. The extensive naturalised planting and habitats will have matured to provide an extended low wooded setting to the northern section of the site, that will ap- The visible construction activity will be most noticeable to the southern and The access road set at the base of a Ha-Ha will be difficult to discern in such pear as a seamless extension to the surrounding woodland areas. The natural- mid section of the site which will include ground modelling, internal road a narrow field of view of the site. Intermittent traffic movement on the inter- ised green roof to the building will visually assimilate any partial winter views of construction and the localised planting of native trees and scrub. nal road will be partially visible, however since there are existing views of the building into the surrounding landscape. Additional and bolstered hedge- vehicles on the much heavier trafficked A39, this will not be out of character rows and habitats will have matured to provide an enhanced planting tapestry Due to intervening woodland, construction activity associated with the from the baseline existing view. that will filter and screen views of the western side of the site that is in view from proposed building to the northern section of the site is predicted to be this location. relatively well-screened from view. Due to intervening woodland, the proposed Crematorium building is pre- dicted to be predominantly screened from view, with only heavily filtered, partial views of the roof possible in the winter. When in leaf, it is predict- ed that the intervening woodland will fully screen the building. The two Level of Effect Level of Effect internal car parks are predicted to be fully screened by a combination of Level of Effect intervening vegetation and the sensitively designed ground modelling and native woodland planting.
The proposed Memorial Gardens will be visible, however, designed as greatly enhanced native habitats that includes bolstered hedgerows, trees, scrub, species-rich meadowland and wetland margins this will sit quietly in the landscape. Some new hedgebanks will be partially visible however, they are wholly characteristic of the local Cornish landscape. The new planting will be in its infancy and will require time to mature to make a positive / beneficial contribution to the view.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 89 8.0
Viewpoint (KVR) 7 I Higher Widemouth Farms - Photomontage of proposed development: On Completion
Viewpoint (KVR) 7 I Higher Widemouth Farms - Photomontage of proposed development: After 15 Years
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The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 91 8.0 8.13. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 8 I SWCP + AONB
Visible extent of proposed Summer View development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 8 - Looking north and east from the SWCP + AONB Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of users of the South West Coastal Path (SWCP) and AONB following Bude Bay Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 60.303m (accuracy coastline providing spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and inland countryside. This is a complex, +/- 2.030m) widely panoramic view, where the eye is primarily focussed on the sea but is also drawn to the folding, Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 1.45km (to nearest site well-treed, small scale, intimate landscape. Built form forms a part of this expansive view and includes boundary) the extents of Widemouth Bay settlement, Marhamchurch and Bude. There are near distance views of individual properties and Widemouth Bay Caravan Park which is very visible off Widemouth Road. Time: 12:10pm Time: 3:10pm Easting: 219378.003 There is a partial, mid-distant, view of the southern end of the proposed development site. This is difficult to distinguish, forms a very small proportion of the view and is below the skyline. Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 100796.192 Sensitivity: Very High
Winter View
Visible extent of proposed development site
92 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: None - There will be no perceptible changes to Size and Scale of change: None - There will be no perceptible changes to Size and Scale of change: None - There will be no perceptible changes to the the view. the view. view.
Geographical extent influenced: Negligible - It forms a very small Geographical extent influenced: Negligible - It forms a very small Geographical extent influenced: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of proportion of the existing panoramic view, 1.45km distance from the proportion of the existing panoramic view, 1.45km distance from the the existing panoramic view, 1.45km distance from the receptor. receptor. receptor. Duration and reversibility: Permanent Residual Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
None None None (permanent residual) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as None. The predicted level of permanent residual visual effect after 15 years is assessed assessed as None. as none. Level of Effect Level of Effect Level of Effect
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 93 8.0
Viewpoint (KVR) 8 I SWCP + AONB - Photomontage of proposed development: On Completion
Viewpoint (KVR) 8 I SWCP + AONBs - Photomontage of proposed development: After 15 Years
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The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 95 8.0 8.14. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 9 I SWCP + AONB
Summer View
Visible extent of proposed development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 9 - Looking north and east from the SWCP and AONB Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view from the South West Coastal Path (SWCP) and AONB following Bude Bay coastline Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 64.673m (accuracy providing spectacular views of the inland countryside. This is a widely panoramic view, where the eye is +/- 1.463m) drawn to the folding, small scale and quite intimate, agricultural landscape. Built form forms a part of Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 1.58km (to nearest site this view and includes individual properties on the skyline, properties along the A39 and Widemouth Bay boundary) Caravan Park which is very visible off Widemouth Road. Time: 12:20pm Time: 3:30pm Easting: 219225.325 There is a partial, mid-distant, view of the southern end of the proposed development site. This is difficult to distinguish, forms a very small proportion of the view and is below the skyline. Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 100687.749 Sensitivity: Very High
Visible extent of proposed Winter View development site
96 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: None - There will be no perceptible changes to Size and Scale of change: None - There will be no perceptible changes to Size and Scale of change: None - There will be no perceptible changes to the the view. the view. view.
Geographical extent: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of the Geographical extent: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of the Geographical extent: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of the existing panoramic view, 1.58km distance from the receptor. panoramic view, 1.58km distance from the receptor. existing panoramic view, 1.58km distance from the receptor.
Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Duration and reversibility: Permanent Residual Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
None None None (permanent residual) The predicted level of temporary visual effect during construction is The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as None. The predicted level of permanent residual visual effect after 15 years is assessed assessed as None. as None.
Level of Effect Level of Effect Level of Effect
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 97 8.0 8.15. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 10 I From car park at Lower Longbeak
Summer View
Visible extent of proposed development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 10 - Looking south from car park at Lower Longbeak Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of visitors at the elevated viewpoint and car park at Lower Longbeak just north of Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 42.001m (accuracy Widemouth Bay providing a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean, Widemouth Bay and the inland +/- 1.678m) countryside. This is a complex, hugely panoramic view, where the eye is primarily focussed on the sea Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 2.42km (to nearest site and coastline. Built form forms a part of this expansive view and includes the extents of Widemouth Bay boundary) settlement in the foreground, farmsteads and properties along the A39 and Widemouth Bay Holiday Village. The vertical telephone mast at Treskinnick Cross is a very visible landmark on the skyline. Time: 12:40pm Time: 2:00pm Easting: 219919.554 There is a partial, mid-distant, view of the southern most end of the proposed development site - below the skyline - the mid and northern section are screened by intervening land form. As a thin sliver of land the Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16 km Northing: 103238.737 site is very difficult to distinguish. It forms a very small proportion of the extensive view and sits below the skyline.
Sensitivity: High
Winter View Visible extent of proposed development site
98 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Negligible - Barely perceptible changes to Size and Scale of change: Negligible - Barely perceptible changes to the Size and Scale: Minor the composition of the view - limited to the southern section of the composition/quality of the view - limited to the southern section of the development site only. development site only. Geographical extent: Negligible
Geographical extent: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of the Geographical extent: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of the Duration and reversibility: Permanent existing view, 2.42km from the receptor. existing view, 2.42km from the receptor. Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent
Neutral Neutral (permanent) Neutral (permanent) It is assessed that the level of effects during construction will be Neutral. The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral. It is assessed that the level of effect to this receptor after 15 years will be Neu- At over 2.4km distance, with only a very small proportion of the southern At over 2.4km distance, with only a very small proportion of the southern tral. Whilst the planting will have significantly matured, at over 2.4km there will section of the site partially visible and where the main focus of the view is section of the site partially visible and where the main focus of the view be no discernible change to the quality and composition of the panoramic view. on the Atlantic sea and coastline, it is predicted to have an indiscernible is on the Atlantic sea and coastline,it is assessed that the proposals will change to the quality and composition of the panoramic view. have neither a positive or negative effect and the associated mitigation will represent an indiscernible change to the quality and composition of the
Level of Effect Level of Effect panoramic view. Level of Effect
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 99 8.0 8.16. Assessment of Visual Effects - Viewpoint (KVR) 11 I PRoW north of Widemouth Bay (525/2/1) Summer View
Visible extent of proposed development site
Description of Existing Viewpoint 11 - Looking south from PRoW 525/2/1 Condition Winter Condition Summer Location
Representative view of users of PRoW 525/2/1 that connects the Atlantic coast and Widemouth Bay with Date: 30/11/20 Date: 14/09/20 Height (m) AOD: 46.774m (accuracy the 3.6 mile loop Bude Canal Trail (PRoW 506/56/1) following Bude’s historic canal and River Neet through +/- 2.394m) Bude Marshes Local Nature Reserve into Bude. This elevated route through arable fields provides a Weather: Overcast Weather: Sunny Distance from Site: 2.2km (to nearest site spectacular elevated view of the Atlantic Ocean, Widemouth Bay and the inland countryside. This is boundary) a complex, hugely panoramic view, where the eye is primarily focussed on the sea and coastline. Built form forms a part of this expansive view and includes the extents of Widemouth Bay settlement in the Time: 1:20pm Time: 2:30pm Easting: 220518.329 foreground, farmsteads and properties along the A39 and Widemouth Bay Holiday Village. The vertical telephone mast at Treskinnick Cross is a very visible landmark on the skyline. Visibility: 10km Visibility: 16km Northing: 103202.668 There is a partial, mid-distant, view of the southern and mid section of the proposed development site - below the skyline - the northern section is screened by Quinceborough Farm Cottages north of the site. As a thin sliver of land the site is very difficult to distinguish. It forms a very small proportion of the extensive view and sits below the skyline.
Sensitivity: High Winter View
Visible extent of proposed development site
100 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
Assessment of Predicted Visual Effects During construction ( 1 - 2 years) On completion after 1 year residual After 15 years
Size and Scale of change: Minor - Barely perceptible changes to the quality Size and Scale of change: Negligible - Barely perceptible changes to the Size and Scale: Neutral of the view. The nature of the view is very limited. composition of the view. The nature of the view is very limited. Geographical extent: Neutral Geographical extent: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of the Geographical extent: Negligible - It forms a very small proportion of the existing view, over 4km from the receptor. existing view, 4km from the receptor. Duration and reversibility: Permanent
Duration and reversibility: Temporary Duration and reversibility: Permanent Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect Magnitude of effect
Neutral Neutral (permanent) Neutral (permanent) At over 4km distance and only a very small upper section of the site partial- The predicted level of visual effect on completion is assessed as Neutral, It is assessed that the level of effect to this receptor after 15 years will be Neu- ly visible it is assessed that the level of effects during construction will be where the proposals has neither a positive or negative effect and the asso- tral. Whilst the planting will have significantly matured, at over 4km there will be Neutral. The construction will have neither a positive or negative effect and ciated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to the quality of the no discernible change to the quality of the view. represents an indiscernible change to the quality of the view. view. Level of Effect Level of Effect Level of Effect
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 101 8.0
8.17. Visual Effects respectively. These are directly adjacent and slightly elevated above the framework’ and greatly enhance habitat diversity. At this stage however, the eastern length of the site and afforded direct and clear views into the site, new planting will be in its infancy and will require time to mature to make a The assessment identified 11 visual receptors. The visual effects were which is not unexpected. greater positive and beneficial contribution to the view. assessed during construction, on completion and after a 15 year establishment period. 8.17.2. On Completion after 1 year residual 8.17.3. Residual Effects After 15 Years
8.17.1. During construction Of the 11 visual receptors, the predicted permanent level and duration of The level and duration of effect on the 16 visual receptors has been effect on completion 1 year after planting has been assessed as follows: assessed as follows: Of the 11 visual receptors the predicted level and duration of effect during • 9 - Neutral • 2 Moderate/Substantial Beneficial construction has been assessed as follows: • 2 - None • 1 Moderate Beneficial • 2 - None The predicted level of visual effect on completion on most receptors • 1 - Slight/Moderate Beneficial • 2 - Neutral is assessed as Neutral, where the proposals have neither a positive or • 3 - Slight Beneficial • 2 - Slight Adverse negative effect and the associated fully integrated mitigation represents an indiscernible change to the quality of the view. • 2 - Neutral • 2 - Slight/Moderate adverse ‘No change’ is predicted to visual receptors 8 and 9 within the AONB and • 2 - None • 1 - Moderate Adverse from the South West Coastal Path. The residual long term visual effects, after 15 years, are predicted to be • 2 - Substantial Adverse For visual receptors that are mid-to long distance views, the predicted Substantial to Slight Beneficial on 7 of the key visual receptors with 2 changes to the view will be indiscernible when viewed in the context of neutral and 2 ‘No Change’ effects. Effects on the views during the construction period are deemed temporary the wider panoramic extents. For nearer distance views, whilst there is over a 1-2 year period and are likely to include the following: isolated an acknowledged substantial change to the site’s land use and character After 15 Years, the vegetation will have grown and significantly matured, hedge removal for a new access road, excavation, material stock piles, site from agricultural open fields to a new Crematorium facility, the extensive which, together with on-going management, will provide a naturalised, compound, construction and associated infrastructure works, construction landscape, design and ecological mitigation, that has been fully integrated green setting with a mosaic of natural and biodiverse woodland, Cornish of new building, movement of plant and machinery, ground re-modeling from the outset, provides a greatly enhanced sense of place, reintroducing Hedgebanks, pastoral meadowland and marginal habitats. This will greatly and drainage, low-level lighting and new bus stop and shelter installation local characteristic features and habitats that strongly reflect and enhance the site’s sense of place and local character, providing a sensitive on Widemouth Road. complement the local landscape. and beautiful setting to the Crematorium. During construction, there is ‘No change’ predicted to the existing views The use of subtle ground modeling rising up from along the A39, with Due to the exposed nature of the site it is expected that the native tree from visual receptors 8 and 9 within the AONB and from the SWCP . native woodland planting mix and grass/wildflower glades atop restores / scrub planting will have reached a height of approximately 4.5-5m high There is a ‘Neutral’ effect predicted on long distance views from visual characteristic woodland elements along the A39. The architectural nature by 15 years. Some of the trees will be wind blown, providing interesting receptors 10 and 11 by the coastline near Widemouth Bay - with no of the single-storey building takes its inspiration and form from the ancient and eye-catching natural features which will blend in with the adjacent low discernible positive or negative change to the quality or composition of the long barrow burial sites, integrating ground hugging grass bunds with a woodlands and provide some containment to the northern area of the site. view. floating plane of a green roof structure. This combined with subtle bunding It will also be effective in integrating the exposed and elevated section of and native scrub/tree planting around the proposed car park and the the A39 more effectively into the landscape. ‘Slight Adverse’ effects are predicted on near/mid-distance views (0.3- wild flower grass roof to the Crematorium building provides a seamless 0.65km ) namely visual receptors 5 and 6. These are representative of users transition from landscape to sky and is effective in concealing views of the On-going management and the creation of woodland glades will not of a Public Right of Way by Widemouth Fields Holiday Park and road user internal road and car parking. only ensure a greater diversity of ground flora but will also allow partial on an isolated high point on Widemouth Road. Slight/Moderate Adverse glimpsed views of the Crematorium from the A39. effects are predicted for visual receptor 7 representative of residents at Important views of the coastline and sea from the A39 are retained and The open grassland to the southern most part of the site will be well- Higher Widemouth Farm. enhanced. established and maintain an open, pastoral quality. The restored and A temporary ‘Moderate Adverse’ effect is predicted on visual receptor The southern most part of the site retains its open, grassland qualities and new Cornish hedge banks will have matured to reinforce the unique local 4 - representative of the residential property and users of the bus stop on with the clever use of the Ha-Ha effectively screens views of vehicles on the characteristics and qualities. They will also provide visual filtering which, Widemouth Road, directly opposite the site’s southern boundary. internal road. together with the use of the Ha-Ha, will reinforce screened views of vehicles on the internal road. Temporary ‘Substantial Adverse’ effects are predicted on visual receptors The height of the earth bunding has been carefully designed to provide 2 and 3 - representative of users of the A39 traveling south and north effective concealment from day one - appearing as a subtle and integral part of the land with the planting intended to provide a ‘native green 102 The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 3.08.0
8.18. Summary of Landscape and Visual Effects
It is assessed that the highly sensitive design, landscape and ecology -led approach to the development will result in predominantly long-term beneficial effects on the majority of the landscape and visual receptors, with Neutral or No Change to a few receptors.
Whilst there is an accepted major change and intensification of land use on what is currently a green field site, the development and inherent mitigation has been carried out in a sensitive manner. We accept that there will be an effect upon the tranquility of the site, however this has been extensively mitigated through sensitive design and enhancement measures.
The development will result in significant enhancements to the sites landscape components, character, condition, aesthetic and perceptual qualities - with the creation of a semi-wild, naturalised and biodiverse setting. Combined with subtle ground modeling to subtly minimise views of the development, the Crematorium itself takes its design principals from the ancient barrow burial sites, in part formed from earth bunding, with a floating grass roof to ensure it is visually discrete and appears rooted in the landscape.
The development also meets a number of the AONB Management Objectives, notably: improving landscape integration of the A39 with the rural AONB setting by improved planting design and management; supporting a landscape scale approach to extending and connecting currently fragmented locally characteristic habitats, and proposing the planting of local provenance native tree species such as Sessile Oak, Hazel and Alder to act as a future seed source for native woodland establishment where this is currently absent or sparse to assist subsequent natural regeneration.
This is underpinned by the Cornwall Design Review Panel who have endorsed the aspirational design approach which provides an elevated level of grace and dignity to funeral proceedings and offers the opportunity to be a project of ‘national’ if not ‘international’ design quality.
The Atlantic View Crematorium and Memorial Gardens, Poundstock, Bude, North Cornwall I LVIA 103 MASTER PLANNING | ARCHITECTURE | URBAN DESIGN | LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
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