Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
6. LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL
Introduction
6.1 This chapter of the ES assesses the likely significant effects of the Development on the environment in respect of landscape and visual effects.
6.2 This chapter has been prepared by McQuitty Landscape Design (MLD). The lead author is David McQuitty CMLI, Dip. LA, BA(Hons), Chartered Landscape Architect, principal of MLD. He has extensive experience of working throughout the UK and has been involved in a wide range of projects, including strategic landscape advice for major urban and rural design projects and environmental impact assessments. He has lectured on Landscape Design and Practice at the Architectural Association, Sheffield University and Oxford Brookes University. He has been a member of the Environment Committee of the Landscape Institute.
6.3 He has been supported in the preparation of this chapter by John Campion, CMLI, a Chartered Landscape Architect who has contributed to the appraisal in both fieldwork and document review. John has been involved in a wide range of commissions, including major infrastructure and building projects within designated landscapes. He has provided strategic landscape advice for major rural design projects and worked on preparing and reviewing environmental impact assessments, particularly for Natural Resources Wales (and its predecessor, the Countryside Council for Wales). He has lectured on Landscape Design, Management and Professional Practice at the University of Manchester, Edinburgh College of Art (Heriot-Watt University), Sheffield University and Bristol University. For over twenty years, he was an examiner for the final professional practice examinations of the Landscape Institute.
6.4 Both David McQuitty and John Campion have provided landscape and visual consultancy advice to Bryn Quarry over many years and have visited the Site on numerous occasions in the course of carrying out this assessment. They both have extensive experience of working at the Bryn Quarry site and a detailed working knowledge of the receiving landscape.
Policy Context Planning Policy Wales (December 2018) Edition 10 i
6.5 Published in December 2018, Planning Policy Wales (PPW) Edition 10 sets out the land use planning policies of the Welsh Government. It is supplemented by a series of Technical Advice Notes (TANs), Welsh Government Circulars, and policy clarification letters which together with
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PPW provide the national planning policy framework for Wales.
6.6 Section 6 of PPW refers to distinctive and natural places (pages 118 -163). Paragraph 6.3.11, within section 6.3: Landscape, sets out that landscape policy is guided by the European Landscape Convention which underpins all landscape guidance in the UK.
6.7 LANDMAP is an important information resource, methodology and baseline for the landscapes of Wales. LANDMAP describes and evaluates the physical, ecological, visual, cultu ral and historic aspects of the landscapes of Wales, and provides the basis of a consistent, quality assured national approach to landscape assessment.
Planning Practice Guidance
6.8 This section of the assessment highlights those aspects of current planning policy which are considered to be most relevant to the assessment of landscape and visual effects predicted to arise from the Development. There are also short commentaries on how the Development relates to the identified policies. The main planning context is presented within the Planning Statement (prepared by Barton Willmore, reference: Document 2) submitted in support of the planning application. The primary national planning guidance is provided by Minerals Planning Policy Wales, supplemented by Minerals Technical Advice Note (MTAN) Wales 1: Aggregates.
Relevant sections from Minerals Planning Policy Wales include:
• “Other Environmentally Important Areas (e.g. Special Landscape Areas, Areas of Nature Conservation Value or protected species); • Proposals which fall within locally designated areas will need to be given careful consideration, and the degree of protection should be commensurate with their relevant importance to the biodiversity and/or landscape of the area concerned.”
MLD commentary: The proposed landscape and ecological mitigation strategies have been developed in close collaboration from a full understanding of the specific characteristics of the local landscape and its biodiversity. It is our view that the combination of appropriate landscape and ecological mitigation measures will enable the earth bunds to fit sensitively into the local and wider landscape.
• “D. To achieve a high standard of restoration and aftercare and provide for beneficial after-uses when mineral working has ceased. • Restoration and Aftercare ………. Restoration and aftercare should provide the means
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to at least maintain, and preferably enhance, the long-term quality of landscapes taken for mineral extraction. This will be to the benefit of local communities and ensure that a valuable natural asset will be passed on to future generations.”
MLD commentary: A restoration plan, integrating landscape and ecological proposals, has been submitted as part of this planning application.
6.9 The supplementary advice provided by MTAN1 includes sections on visual impact and on restoration and after use. Relevant abstracts from these sections are set out below:
• “Visual Impact: Proposals for new aggregates extraction or significant extensions to existing operations should be assessed carefully to determine the potential impact on the landscape character of the setting. This assessment will enable a comprehensive understanding of the visual impact of the proposed development from various locations to determine the acceptability of the development, the phasing and layout of the development, and, the most appropriate restoration strategy”.
MLD commentary: A full ‘best practice‘ Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) has been carried out as part of this planning application, prepared by two highly experienced Chartered Landscape Architects with a detailed knowledge of the local and wider landscape obtained over a protracted period of working on various development projects at the Bryn Quarry site and waste recycling facility. This assessment has made full use of the current published LANDMAP Landscape Character data and LANDMAP methodology, in accordance with current guidance published by Natural Resources Wales (NRW).
• “D. To achieve a high standard of restoration and aftercare, and provide for a beneficial after-use • ……” It is the responsibility of the mineral operator to design and implement a high quality restoration and aftercare scheme that must be an integral part of any mineral extraction application”.
MLD commentary: The Development includes a full restoration scheme which will have significant landscape and ecological benefits.
6.10 National planning policies are interpreted at a more local level within the current Caerphilly County Borough Council Local Development Plan (LDP), which was adopted for development control purposes in November 2010. There are various general policies for the Countryside within the LDP relevant to the Site which include:
“SP10 The Council will protect, conserve, enhance and manage the natural heritage of the
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County Borough in the consideration of all development proposals within both the rural and built environment.
Paragraph 1.72 The term Natural Heritage covers the geology, geomorphology, biodiversity, and landscape and amenity value of the County Borough. It embraces the relationships between landform and landscape, habitats and wildlife and the natural and built environment. It also includes natural features such as trees, woodlands, hedgerows and rivers. The natural heritage is not confined to the countryside or designated sites and is just as prevalent and important in our urban areas. The natural heritage is a positive asset that enriches people’s quality of life and promotes the regeneration of areas.”
MLD commentary on Policy SP10: The scheme has been developed with the protection, conservation and management of the natural heritage as integral objectives. Great care has been taken in the landscape design to minimise the resulting landscape and visual effects and, indeed, to ensure that, wherever possible, the Development makes significant long-term positive contributions to the landscape character of the area.
6.11 “NH1 Special Landscape Areas are identified and will be protected at the following locations:
• NH1.2 Gelligaer Common; NH1.3 Mynydd Eglwysilan.
Paragraph 3.100 Special Landscape Areas (SLAs) are local non-statutory designations that seek to protect areas that exhibit distinctive landscape, historical, cultural, biodiversity and geological features and characteristics within the County Borough. They are locally important elements of the natural heritage of the rural and urban environments and provide a living history of the evolution of the area’s landscape as well as cultural backdrop and visual setting. The designation of SLAs highlights the holistic consideration of the landscape, with emphasis placed on the ‘special’ nature of the distinctive landscape features and characteristics in these areas.
Paragraph 3.101 Two Special Landscape Areas have been identified in the NCC 1 area. These areas will be protected from any development that would harm their distinctive features or characteristics. The policy is not designed to preclude development. However, an applicant will need to demonstrate that any development proposal will not have an unacceptable impact on the specific distinctive features or characteristics associated with the SLA. ”
6.12 “CW4 Development proposals that affect locally designated natural heritage features, will
1 The Northern Connections Corridor (NCC) CCC LDP Adopted 2010 20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
only be permitted:
• A Where they conserve and where appropriate enhance the distinctive or characteristic features of the Special Landscape Area (SLA) or Visually Important Local Landscape (VILL). • B Within, or in close proximity to sites designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), Local Nature Reserves (LNR), Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS), Green Corridors, or Local Priority Habitats and Species, where proposals either • i Conserve and where appropriate enhance the ecological or geological importance of the designation, or • ii Are such that the need for the development outweighs the ecological importance of the site, and where harm is minimised by mitigation measures and offset as far as practicable by compensation measures designed to ensure that there is no reduction in the overall value of the area or feature.”
MLD comments on Policies NH1 and CW4: The Site does not lie within an area designated as Visually Important Local Landscape. Whilst the Site is located within a non-statutory SLA designation, it is important to note that the designation of a Special Landscape Area does not preclude development, but rather seeks to ensure that any development does not have an unacceptable impact on the specific distinctive or ‘special’ features or characteristics of the area. The Site lies at the extreme northern end of the large Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.1). The Site lies within the lowlands part of the SLA, in an area which is visually influenced by the adjacent poor-quality urban edges of Gelligaer and Penybryn. It does not form a part of the more ‘attractive rolling farmland’, as referred to in the SLA description; this lies beyond the Site to the south and west and is visually separate from the quarry locality. Prior to any extraction taking place in the proposed quarry extension, gently-profiled perimeter landscape bunds will be formed to contain and screen the workings. During the next available planting season, naturalistic planting will take place on the bunds which will not only have additional screening value, but will contribute positively to local landscape character. Upon completion of the restoration scheme (which will be undertaken progressively in tandem with the extraction process), the quarry extension will be comfortably assimilated into the wider rural landscape.
6.13 The Gelligaer Common SLA lies to the north side of the B4254 Gelligaer Road and, although relatively close to the Site, is effectively visually separated from it by the strong vegetation structure neighbouring the main road.
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6.14 Ecological aspects of this policy are fully dealt within the ecology reports (reference: Appendices 7.1 – 7.5) prepared as part of the planning application and the Biodiversity Chapter of this ES (Chapter 7). However, we would note that a fully integrated landscape and ecological mitigation scheme has been prepared for the Development, based upon close collaboration between the landscape and ecological advisors for the project.
6.15 “CW2 Development proposals must have regard for all relevant material planning considerations in order to satisfy the following requirements:
• A There is no unacceptable impact on the amenity of adjacent properties or land………………… .
MLD comments on Policy CW2: The Development pays full attention to the amenity of adjacent properties. The separation distances between the Development and residential properties are beyond the minimum required by current minerals guidance and, when combined with mitigation perimeter mounding and associated naturalistic planting, will ensure that there are no resulting unacceptable adverse effects on the amenity of local residents or land. Views to the horizon over the finished perimeter mounds will still be obtainable, whilst visually intrusive built elements at the Bryn Group waste recycling facility and the Gelliargwellt dairy farm will be screened from nearby residential areas.
6.16 “CW6 Development proposals on sites containing trees, woodlands and hedgerows, or which are bordered by one of more such trees or hedgerows, will only be permitted provided that:
• A: Where arboricultural surveys are required, they are submitted and approved, including any mitigation, compensation or management requirements, as part of the planning application. • B: Root systems will be retained and adequately protected for the duration of all development activity on site. • C: Development proposals have made all reasonable efforts to retain, protect and integrate trees, woodlands or hedgerows within the development site.
MLD comments on Policy CW6: There is limited existing tree and hedgerow vegetation on Site, but what is present has been assessed and will be very largely retained, protected and enhanced within the proposed works. Furthermore, the planting mitigation will add considerable new stands of native trees and shrubs, as well as hedgerows, amounting to a substantial overall net increase in vegetation cover within and around the Site.
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Assessment Methodology
Best Practice Guidance
6.17 This assessment has been based on current best practice, as set out in the following documents:
• “Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact assessment” (3rd Edition, 2013), published by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Assessment ;
• “Making Sense of Place – Landscape Character Assessment Guidance,” (2002) published by the Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage.
• “Topic Paper 6: Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity” (Scottish Natural Heritage and the Countryside Agency, 2004) .
• LANDMAP Guidance Note 3: Guidance for Wales .
• LANDMAP Information Guidance Note 1: Special Landscape Areas .
Study Area
6.18 The study area for the assessment has been defined in accordance with the guidance provided in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GVLIA) 3rd edition, 2013, which advises that the study area for a LVIA needs to cover “the site itself and the full extent of the wider landscape context around it, which the proposed development may influence in a significant manner”.2
6.19 The Development consists of mineral extraction, below present ground levels, set within a series of visually low-key, gently shaped perimeter earth bunds with a naturalistic landscape treatment of native tree copses, hedgerows and grassland. Existing woodland cover and topography will also contribute to screening the Site from many directions. For these reasons, no significant effects are anticipated beyond 3km.
6.20 Wherever possible, the analysis has been objective, the residual effects quantified, and any subjective judgements have been described in clearly defined terms. Both objective analysis and subjective professional judgements are required for effective, high quality landscape and
2 ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’; Third Edition; Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment; 2013; paragraph 5.2, p.70
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visual analysis.
Surveys
6.21 Detailed desktop surveys were carried out of published material on the landscape of the Site and its wider context. Material included maps, photographic evidence, historic landscape and cultural data. Fieldwork enabled the detailed recording of various landscape elements, such as topography, land use and vegetation. The fieldwork was undertaken by two chartered landscape architects, each with more than 25 years’ experience of the preparation of LVIAs and both of whom are very familiar with the landscape of the Site’s immediate environment and the wider locality. From the analysis of this combination of material, it was possible to carry out an evaluation of landscape character and assess the predicted effect of the Development.
Viewpoint Selection
6.22 There has been a consultation dialogue with the CCBC about the viewpoints which should be used in the visual effects assessment. The LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.6, Viewpoint Location Plan, shows the locations of these.
6.23 The LVIA has utilised a computer-generated Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) to assist in the selection of viewpoints and prediction of visual effects arising from the Development. This specialist work was commissioned from a leading expert in this field, Gordon Citrine, and is based upon a Digital Terrain Model. This is in accordance with the provisions set out in GLVIA3. The ZTV has used the Site boundary and the final restoration landform as its basis for analysis and assessment. The extent of the ZTV is shown Figures 6.4 (Bare Earth) and 6.5 (Existing Screening Features) in the LVIA Illustrations Appendix.
6.24 A series of potential viewpoints was identified, based on desktop analysis of the computer - generated ZTV, other mapped information and a detailed prior working knowledge of the wider receiving landscape. The viewpoints were selected to be representative of the various groups of visual receptors identified, the views of which may be affected by the Development. The emphasis, when selecting viewpoints, was on those from which viewers could experience ‘likely significant effects’ and taking ‘an approach that is proportional to the scale of the project that is being assessed’, in line with GLVIA3 as current best practice guidance. This approach involves using professional judgement and, for this appraisal, we have identified potential locations from where possible significant effects could occur. These candidate viewpoints were then reviewed in the field and refined as necessary. The locations of the confirmed visual assessment viewpoints are shown in the LVIA Illustrations Appendix, at
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Figure 6.6, Viewpoint Location Plan.
Landscape Sensitivity
6.25 The term 'landscape receptor' means an element or a group of elements which will be directly or indirectly affected by the proposals. Landscape receptors are physical elements or attributes of the landscape that could be affected by the Development, such as landscape character, landform, water courses, woodland, groups of trees or hedgerows, land uses and field boundaries.
6.26 Prior to the advent of the landscape character assessment procedure now used by local authorities, the sensitivity of a given landscape receptor was often defined in terms of landscape value, which took the form of national planning designations - such as National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) - or local designations, such as Areas of Great Landscape Value or Special Landscape Areas. Recent assessment guidance has placed greater emphasis on those landscapes which do not benefit from national or local designations, but which may be valued locally for particular reasons. In assessing the value of a given landscape, we have used the range of factors which can be taken into consideration as listed in Box 5.1 of GLVIA3 (p.84), insofar as they relate to the particular landscape context.
6.27 The sensitivity of landscape receptors is assessed by combining judgements on the susceptibility to the type of change proposed and the value attached to the landscape, in accordance with GLVIA3, and defined in accordance with the criteria set out in Table 6.1, below:
6.28 Table 6.1: Sensitivity of Landscape Receptors
Sensitivity Landscape type or feature
An area possessing a particularly distinctive sense of place, in good condition, or highly valued for its scenic quality and/or landscape character, for example World Heritage Sites, National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Heritage High Coasts, Grade 1 Listed Buildings and historic parks; or an intact feature of high intrinsic value; [such as prominent trees or tree groups, forming a critical part of the landscape pattern or historic landscape pattern]; landscapes or features with a low tolerance to change of the type identified.
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An area with a well-defined sense of place and/or character in moderate condition; or an area valued by designation at a local or regional level; or a partly damaged feature of high intrinsic value; or an intact feature of moderate intrinsic value [such Medium as prominent trees or tree groups which contribute to the character of the site, screening of views, landscape or historic landscape pattern]; a landscape or feature which is partially tolerant of change of the type identified.
An area with a poorly defined sense of place, and/or landscape character in poor condition, often not valued for its scenic quality; or a feature of low intrinsic value Low [such as trees and species poor hedges of no special quality or function]; or a landscape or feature that is tolerant of change of the type identified.
Magnitude of Landscape Effect
6.29 The criteria used to assess the magnitude of landscape effects (including those on landscape character and historical landscape character and setting) are based upon the predicted amount of physical change, the geographic extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility, that will occur as a result of the proposals, as described in Table 6.2, below. These are based on best practice examples and experience:
Table 6.2: Magnitude of Landscape Effect
Category Description
The Development will be at complete variance with the scale, landform, Major adverse effect pattern or character of the landscape, and/or would diminish or destroy the integrity of characteristic features and their settings.
The Development will be at odds with the scale, landform, pattern or Moderate adverse effect character of the landscape and/or would cause a noticeable diminution of the integrity of characteristic features and their settings. Minor adverse effect The Development will not quite fit into the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape and/or would cause a perceptible diminution of the integrity of characteristic features and their settings. Negligible adverse The Development will create a barely perceptible diminution of the integrity
effect of characteristic features and their settings.
No change The Development will not cause any change to the scale, landform, pattern or character of the landscape.
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Negligible beneficial The Development will provide a barely perceptible enhancement of the effect integrity of characteristic features and their settings.
Minor beneficial The Development will achieve a degree of fit with the scale, landform, pattern benefit or character of the landscape and make a minor contribution to enhancing the character, sense of place or integrity of the landscape.
Moderate beneficial The Development will fit well with the scale, landform, pattern or character effect of the landscape and would noticeably enhance the character, sense of place or integrity of the landscape.
Major beneficial The Development will fit very well with the scale, landform, pattern or effect character of the landscape and would restore the character, sense of place or scale of the landscape.
Sensitivity of Visual Receptors (Susceptibility to Change)
6.30 The term 'visual receptor' means people - individuals and/or defined groups of people who have the potential to be directly or indirectly affected by the proposals. Visual receptors are at publicly accessible viewpoints, the sensitivity of which would be dependent on the location, the activity of the viewer and the importance of the view. These would include viewpoints available to the users of outdoor facilities, sporting activities and users of public rights of way; viewpoints from landscape features and beauty spots; viewpoints outside local properties (which would represent the view for local residents); and viewpoints available to people travelling through the landscape. Views may be glimpsed and fleeting, or open and sustained.
6.31 The determination of the sensitivity of the visual receptors is a matter of professional judgement. The GLVIA 3rd edition, 2013, recommend that the assessment of sensitivity will be dependent on:
• the location and context of a viewpoint;
• the expectations and occupation or activity of the viewer;
• the importance of the view (which may be determined with respect to its popularity or the numbers of people affected, its appearance in guidebooks, on tourist maps, and in the facilities provided for its enjoyment and references to it in literature or art); and
• the scale of the view and the extent of visibility.
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Table 6.3: Sensitivity of Visual Receptors (Susceptibility to Change)
Sensitivity Visual Receptor
Viewers with a particular interest in their visual environment and/or prolonged High viewing opportunities, for example residents, or visitors to National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Heritage Coasts or walkers on National Trails.
Viewers with a general interest in their visual environment; for example, visitors to regionally or locally valued countryside - including Access Land not within a Medium designated landscape - and users of local open space facilities, and walkers or horse riders on locally-promoted public rights of way which are not specifically identified for their visual interest.
Low Viewers with a passing or momentary interest in their everyday surroundings, for example motorists or people at their place of work, whose attention is focused on other activities and who are therefore less susceptible to change.
6.32 The magnitude of visual effects depends on factors such as distance, the time of day, the prevailing weather conditions, elevation and aspect, as well as the context of the view. The predicted level of effect has been assessed during good visibility and light conditions, therefore with the best possible view of the proposals. Allowance has also been made for the likely visibility of the Development during the winter aspect; that is, without the presence of leaves on deciduous vegetation and its consequential contribution to screening effects
6.33 The following scale has been adopted for assessing the magnitude of visual effect, based on the degree of change to the view, or to the composition - see Table 6.4, below. This is based on best practice examples and previous experience.
6.34 Table 6.4: Magnitude of Visual Effect
Visual Effect Magnitude Description
Major adverse or beneficial effect The Development will cause a dominant or complete change to the composition of the view, the appreciation of the landscape character, or the ability to take in or enjoy the view.
The Development will cause a clearly noticeable change to the Moderate adverse or view, which would affect the composition, the appreciation of beneficial effect landscape character or the ability to take in or enjoy the view.
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The Development will cause a perceptible change to the view, but Minor adverse or beneficial effect which would not materially affect the composition, the appreciation of landscape character or the ability to take in or enjoy the view. The Development will cause a barely perceptible change to the Negligible adverse or view, which would not affect the composition, the appreciation beneficial effect of landscape character, or the ability to take in or enjoy the view. No change The Development will cause no change to the view.
Assessment of Overall Level of Effect
6.35 The scale shown in Table 6.5, below, has been adopted to assess the overall level of both landscape and visual effects and whether they are considered to be adverse, beneficial or neutral. (Neutral effects would be those where there may be a landscape or visual change, but the overall weighting of positive and negative effects is very finely balanced). The basis of this scale is derived from professional experience. In accordance with good practice, the main aim in the reporting of the identified effects is to describe the key landscape and visual issues which are relevant to determining this planning application; for the purposes of this assessment, such effects are referred to as being significant - which we would define as being of material consideration. In terms of Table 6.5 below, it is assumed that moderate and greater landscape and visual effects are likely to be significant. It should be noted that the term 'residual effects' used in this assessment refers to those effects which are predicted, having taken into account the proposed mitigation measures.
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Table 6.5: Assessment of Overall Landscape or Visual Level of Effect
(It should be noted that some of assessment values below, e.g. moderate-minor, are expressed as a continuum. In these instances, the professional judgement is that the assessment of the level of effect is not sufficiently weighted as to be defined by a single value of say moderate or minor. This approach follows GLVIA 3 guidance on the importance of professional judgement in landscape and visual assessment 3)
Magnitude Sensitivity
High Moderate Low
Major Major Major - Moderate Moderate - Minor Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial
Moderate Major - Moderate Moderate – Minor Minor Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial
Minor Moderate - Minor Minor Minor Adverse/Beneficial - Negligible Adverse/Beneficial Adverse/Beneficial
Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible
Limitations and Assumptions
6.36 Reference to “the Site” should be interpreted as the area contained within the red line drawn to identify the boundary for the planning application.
6.37 All visual assessment field survey work has been undertaken from within publicly accessible areas only: views from private properties and commercial buildings, where considered, are approximate and have been estimated, with reference to the nearest publicly accessible location from which assessment could reasonably take place.
6.38 The ‘worst-case’ scenario used for the visual assessment has assumed maximum levels of winter visibility due to the absence of leaves on deciduous vegetation (N.B. All the viewpoint photographs incorporated into the LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figures 6.8 to 6.18, inclusive, were taken on 29th November 2019). With regard to the worst-case scenario for landscape
3 The sections of Table 6.5 shaded grey are where effects which are considered to be ‘significant’. In a few particular receptor situations, some of the effects at the ‘moderate’ end of the ’moderate to minor’ continuum are considered as ‘potentially significant’; these are identified in the assessment text.
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change, this would be evident during the later stages of bund construction. However, such bunds would have been a conspicuous local feature during the reclamation of the Penallta Colliery spoil heaps now forming the nearby Penallta Country Park.
6.39 Mitigation measures used in this assessment have been confined to primary and secondary mitigation measures: that is, primary measures that intrinsically comprise part of the development design, evolved through an iterative process; and secondary measures designed to specifically address the remaining (residual) negative (adverse) impacts of the final development proposals.
6.40 The LANDMAP Visual and Sensory information for the underlying Aspect Areas was last updated some considerable time ago (January 2013). Since these updates there have been a number of changes which have affected the landscape quality of these Aspect Areas , one of the most significant of these being the extent of single wind turbines, telecommunication masts and solar photovoltaic installations which have been constructed and so reduced the sensitivity of the receiving landscape to further built development. LVIA Appendix 6.2 contains a schedule, which contains the summary results of a preliminary examination of planning applications across the Caerphilly, Rhondda Cynon Taff and Merthyr Tydfil administrative areas constructed within a 6 km radius of the site. The list should not be taken as being exhaustive, but it does clearly indicate the considerable spatial extent of recent wind and telecommunication development in the wider landscape.
Baseline Conditions
6.41 The baseline condition information is built up by a process which combines the results of desktop research with those of detailed field observation and analysis.
Location and Land Use
6.42 The Site at Gelliargwellt Uchaf is located approximately 1km to the south-west of the settlement of Gelligaer. It is accessed off the B4254 road between Gelligaer and Nelson, which runs east-west just north of the Site, via the existing access track. Bryn Quarry Ltd is part of the Bryn Group which operates the Materials Recycling Facility (MRF), an In -Vessel Composting Facility (IVC), an active sandstone quarry, a Green Waste Facility and a large dairy farm, at the Site and on land in the surrounding area.
6.43 The Site is currently a mixture of grassland grazed by cattle – bounded and demarcated by some sections of mature field boundary hedgerow or drainage ditches, some with post and
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wire fences - farm access tracks and disturbed or cultivated ground, including where the initial stages of perimeter screening mounds have been constructed.
Topography
6.44 The Site of the active sandstone quarry is south-east of Gelliargwellt Uchaf farmstead, situated on relatively flat land forming a small plateau above a valley side. This relatively flat land extends northwards all the way to the southern edges of Gelligaer, with only a 2-metre change of level occurring over nearly a kilometre. The valley slopes below the quarry are locally steep and well-clothed with, primarily, mature broadleaved woodland, interspersed with patches of scrub and stands of bracken. The land begins to rise to the north west of the Site, eventually climbing to over 350m Above Ordnance Datum (AOD) on Gelligaer Common well to the north of Gelligaer.
6.45 Natural elevations around the present quarry vary from approximately 223m AOD to the north - west and approximately 219m AOD to the south-east. The elevation of the quarry floor is typically around 203m AOD. Quarry sides are near-vertical cut rock faces, some overlaid with a shallow layer of overburden. Low screening bunds, approximately 2.5 – 3 metres high, enclose some parts of the northern and south-eastern boundaries of the active quarry.
6.46 The land where the Development is proposed is on this flatter ground, although there is a gentle rise just beyond the Site to the east to 223m AOD.
Existing Site Vegetation and Site Boundaries
6.47 The areas of ground required to accommodate the Development and the accompanying mitigation screening bunds, are a combination of disturbed land – where the construction of the earth bund which is the subject of planning application ref17/0973/FULL has begun, with temporary grass seeding - and mostly improved pasture, periodically grazed by the Gelliargwellt Uchaf farm dairy herd. These grasslands are also cropped annually for silage for dairy cattle feed. Much of the undisturbed part of the Site is on shallow soils overlying the sandstone bedrock, but the northern edges are overlaid by a substantial thickness of sub - surface peat, resulting in areas of locally-impeded drainage. There are several localised ponding/wet flushes occurring in places.
6.48 The north-western field boundary is demarcated by a mature hedgerow with occasional trees. This hedgerow is not continuous and flanks the outer bank of a deep drainage ditch w hich
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runs from north-east to south-west. To the north, a line of broadleaved scrub along the outside of the field boundary fence defines the Site boundary to the north of the farm access track. The north-eastern boundary of the land required to accommodate the proposed perimeter screening mounds is largely open, with sporadic willow and hawthorn bushes growing along the line of a substantial drainage ditch which has a post and wire fence flanking it. To the south-eastern side, field boundaries are a mixture of remnant sandstone walls, drainage ditches with patches of scrub vegetation and then a number of mature field boundary hedgerows with significant tree cover.
Existing Structures
6.49 The existing operational quarry has no permanent structures, but a variable number of items of mobile plant used for extracting, crushing, grading and loading the sandstone material are sited on the floor of the excavations, which is typically around 15 metres below surrounding ground level.
6.50 An overhead 33kV electricity transmission line carried on wooden poles has previously been diverted on an alignment which takes the line to the west of the existing quarry, running across pastureland between the western edge of the quarry workings and the eastern side of the dairy farm building complex. A higher voltage overhead line, carried on steel lattice towers, runs on a north-east to south-west alignment to the south east of the quarry. These line towers and conductors will remain in situ, with safety margins to be retained around them – as required by the electricity supply District Network Operator - which determine the spatial extent of the adjacent areas of extraction.
6.51 The buildings and associated structures of the general Bryn Quarry waste management and recycling facilities lie to the west of the existing quarry, focussed around the southern and south-western sides of the original farmstead of Gelliargwellt Uchaf.
Public Rights of Way, Access Land and Public Open Space
6.52 There are no public rights of way (PRoW) within the Site. A local public footpath runs relatively close to the western edge of the Site, on an alignment which is roughly north-east to south- west. This footpath links the nearby residential area of western Gelligaer with a branch of the Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk which links to the heritage site at Llancaiach Fawr at the edge of Nelson to the west. This branch passes along the upper valley edge, following the farm track running south-east from the farmstead at Gelliargwellt Uchaf towards Penallta.
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The Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk is a promoted long-distance footpath following a 43- kilometre circuitous route, which starts and finishes at the Penallta Country Park, located some 0.75kms to the south-east of the Bryn Quarry site. 4 Here, one arm of the route of the Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk runs north-eastwards, crossing the farmland to the east of the proposed quarry extension and screening mounds, and then along the outer edge of the Penybryn residential area south-east of Gelligaer, eventually to meet Gelligaer Road near the church. Another arm runs south-westwards down the valley side to cross the Caerphilly Road, before climbing the slopes to the south of Nelson and onto the open common land on the high ground to the west of Mynydd Eglwysilan.
6.53 Penallta Country Park is an extensive area of designed public open space located around 0.3kms to the south-east of the Site, on the upper valley slopes to the west of Penallta village; it is owned and managed by Caerphilly County Borough Council, having been reclaimed from an extensive area of waste tips created by the former Penallta Colliery. The Country Park has a number of car parks, extensive areas of young planted woodland and a large open space for outdoor events, as well as footpaths and other routes for both active and passive recreation. It has a notable very large earth sculpture – ‘Sultan’, the Pit Pony - and there are extensive views out over the surrounding area from the country park’s highest points, which are at an elevation of around 225m AOD.
6.54 There is no designated Access Land in the vicinity of the Site. However, the extensive tract of open Common Land at Mynydd Eglwysilan - some 2.25kms distant to the south at its nearest point - rises to 355m AOD, from which there are extensive views out, including towards the Bryn Quarry vicinity. This Common Land has been designated as Access Land under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000.
6.55 A section of National Cycle Route 47 (Newport to Fishguard) 5 runs along the axis of the valley immediately to the north of - and parallel to - the mineral railway line between Nelson and Tredomen to the south west of the Site, at around 0.8kms at its closest point, but considerably lower in elevation than the land at the existing southern edge of the Site.
Public Roads
4 Long Distance Walkers’ Association website, interrogated 14th Feb 2017 5 SUSTRANS website entry at 15 th February 2017
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6.56 There are several public roads in the vicinity of the Site. The B4254 running between Gelligaer and Nelson is around 0.59kms to the north-west from the nearest section of the proposed screening mounds. To the north and north-east, local residential access roads within Gelligaer and Penybryn are around 0.3 to 0.35kms distant. The A472 main road between Nelson and Ystrad Mynach is around 1km distant to the south west. A minor road (Heol Fawr) leading south-east from the edge of Nelson rises up the valley side to reach the Common Land on Mynydd Eglwysilan, reaching an elevation of 302m AOD at its highest point, from which there are extensive open views, including to the north towards the Site.
Landscape Character Assessment
6.57 'Landscape character' is defined as a distinct and recognisable pattern of elements that occur consistently in a particular type of landscape and how people perceive it. It reflects particular combinations of geology, landform, soils, vegetation and land-use, and human settlement. It creates the particular ‘sense of place’ of different areas of the landscape.
6.58 The LANDMAP system has been developed specifically for the assessment of character in the landscape of Wales. Landscape characteristics, qualities and influences on the landscape are recorded and evaluated in a consistent way against a standard set of criteria, and this data base is used by planning authorities in their decision-making process when determining planning applications. The LANDMAP classification consistently uses the terms ‘Outstanding’, ‘High’, ‘Moderate’ and ‘Low’ when assessing the value of all five Aspects of the landscape. The following interpretations are given 6: • Outstanding: the importance of the qualities within the Aspect Area are of international or national importance to the Aspect; • High: the importance of the qualities within the Aspect Area are of regional or county importance to the Aspect; • Moderate: the importance of the qualities within the Aspect Area are of local importance to the Aspect; • Low: the importance of the qualities within the Aspect Area are of little or no importance to the Aspect.
6.59 LANDMAP consists of five spatial data sets: Geological Landscape, Landscape Habitats, Visual & Sensory, Historic Landscape, Cultural Landscape. The boundaries and descriptions
6 LANDMAP Methodology: Guidance for Wales, Visual & Sensory, 2013; Natural Resources Wales; p.24
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contained within the LANDMAP Collector data for the Site and its environs are shown in the Appendix. The following descriptions are taken direct from the published LANDMAP Collector data.
6.60 LANDMAP places the Site within the ‘Llanfabon’ Visual & Sensory Aspect Area, Cynon VS143. The summary description of this is quoted below:
“A pleasant landscape, with some attractive rolling farmland away from the built form urban edges of Nelson, Blackwood and Treforest. This incongruous mix of combination of elements of rural field patterns, isolated settlements/farmsteads and built form urban edge and pylons/masts leads to a complex overall character, essentially rural with upland feel, broad views across valleys, and up to upland hills/outliers of Mynydd Eglwysilan and Meio that dominate inward views.”
LANDMAP classifies this Aspect Area as being of ‘Moderate’ value.7
6.61 A Visual & Sensory Aspect Area of ‘Low’ value adjoins the Llanfabon area to the south. This is the ‘Nelson Urban Area’, Cynon VS384, which is described as an
“Urban area in valley setting of mainly housing, with the oldest housing (terraced) along the B4254 and more modern housing estates being set back from the road. Views of any great distance are limited due to more raised areas surrounding Nelson. The most attractive views are to the east with broadleaved woodland on valley slopes being dominant. Pylons are visual detractors in views to the south. The main road through Nelson (B4254) is not particularly busy but will provide some noise detraction from the peacefulness of the centre of the village”.
6.62 The ‘Blackwood’ Visual & Sensory Aspect Area, Cynon VS114, adjoins the Llanfabon Aspect Area to the east. Gelligaer lies just within the western edges of the Blackwood Aspect Area. The overall quality of this urban landscape character zone has not been fully assessed, but the summary description states that it is
“… a conglomeration of many settlements which all coalesce, an odd environment with the scale of a large town but with some areas of fields and open/vegetated areas within the built form. Rolling topography with north south trending valleys loses some of its distinctiveness
7 LANDMAP information indicates the most recent monitoring date as being 01-01-2013, based upon 2011/12 change detection information – LANDMAP website entry, interrogated on 15 th Feb 2017
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as a result of being swathed in layer of built form - however the marked differences in elevation between valley floor (e.g. 100mAOD) and hilltops (e.g. 229mAOD) are still apparent and contribute to its sense of place”.
6.63 With regards to the other LANDMAP Aspects, the Site lies within the Cynon CLO56 Cultural Landscape Area. This geographically large area is rated as being of ‘High’ value, based upon the observation that there are examples of policy determination to protect the natural and visual aspects of large areas of landscape from being overrun by development; although neither the “condition” nor the “trend” criteria have been assessed. The summary description appears to mostly refer to higher land areas to the north of Bryn Quarry. It states that
“Large expanses of (mostly) upland and moorland landscape that are present throughout the [LANDMAP] Study Area. They have been variously designated statutorily as Sites of Special Scientific Interest by the Countryside Council for Wales, or by Unitary Authorities as Speci al Landscape Areas, Sites of Interest for Nature Conservation or as part of the Coalfield Plateaux”.
6.64 The Site lies within the ‘Gelligaer-Blackwood’ Geological Aspect Area, Cynon GL009. This is rated as being of ‘Moderate’ value with “significant industrial/urban development having modified much of the river valleys”.
6.65 The Site lies primarily within the edges of the ‘Nelson Corridor’ Historic Landscape Aspect Area, Cynon HL695. This is also evaluated as ‘moderate’, noting that
“… the rapid expansion of industrial activity and associated settlement in this area during the late 19th-early 20th century has removed substantial traces of earlier patterns of landscape and settlement in this area; however, there is significant evidence for Roman and medieval occupation in this area”.
6.66 The north western extremity of the land required for the construction of the perimeter mounds encroaches just into the southern edge of the adjacent Historic Landscape Aspect Area, ‘Gelligaer and Llancaiach’, Cynon HL634, which is classified as being of ‘Outstanding’ value. This extensive Aspect Area is described as being
‘An area of regular fieldscape with the UA boundary to the west, and distinct from the built- up and industrialised areas of Gelligaer to the south and east... The northern edge of this
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character area is denoted by the unenclosed upland of Gelligaer common (Cynon HL831)….’ 8The justification for that its ‘Outstanding’ level of evaluation stated as follows:
‘This area has been assessed as outstanding, due to the fact that it represents a remarkably coherent, rich multi-period landscape with significant remains of Roman military occupation represented by the auxiliary fort at Gelligaer and its associated civilian settlement.’ 9
6.67 The Site is placed within the (un-named) Cynon LH133 Landscape Habitats Aspect Area, which is evaluated as ‘High’. The description, however, notes that it was “difficult to assess as much of area is improved grassland which is relatively low value. There are many hedgerows and a large variety of other valuable habitats present in small patches which greatly enhance value of area”. Neither the “condition” nor the “trends” criteria were assessed. It is noted that this information was monitored and updated in 2012, taking into account recent urban expansion.10 The area of marshy grassland within the field at the edge of the nearby Gelligaer residential area to the north-east of the proposed perimeter mounds location has been designated by CCBC as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) – SINC 54, Waun Rydd, and was re-surveyed as part of CCBC’s Review of Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation11 during 2007. This Site was also subject to detailed botanical survey on behalf of Bryn Group during July 2019, as part of the preparation of a Planning Obligation directly related to the planning consent for the perimeter mounds, which is intended to make provision for the subsequent management of the Site.
Special Landscape Areas (SLAs)
6.68 The extensive Gelligaer Common SLA lies to the north side of the B4254 Gelligaer Road and, although relatively close to the Site, is effectively visually separated from it by the strong vegetation structure neighbouring this main road.
6.69 The Site lies at the extreme northern end of the large Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA. As the name suggests, the focus of this SLA lies around the extensive upland area of Mynydd Eglwysilan itself, located some 3km distant to the south. The relevant SLA data incorporated in the Caerphilly Local Plan Appendix states that this SLA consists of two distinct landscape types –
8 LANDMAP website entry, interrogated on 8 th March 2017 9 Ibid. 10 LANDMAP website entry, interrogated on 15 th February 2017 11 Review of Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation; Hyder Consulting (UK) Ltd for CCBC; September 2009
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open uplands and lowlands. The Site lies within the lowlands landscape type, in an area which is influenced by the adjacent visually poor-quality urban edges of Gelligaer and Penybryn. It does not form a part of the more ‘attractive rolling farmland’, as referred to in the SLA description; this farmland lies beyond the Site some way to the south and west. LANDMAP Visual & Sensory Aspect values, a key determinant in the SLA designation process, are substantially lower for the area around the Site when compared with the core area of the Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA on the upland areas to the south. There is no mention in the supporting SLA data of the existing quarrying and other commercial activities a t Bryn Quarry which are relevant to present baseline landscape character. There is also no mention here of the prominent landscape element of single wind turbines, which are readily seen in most aspects from the open land on Mynydd Eglwysilan.
Cadw Registered Landscapes of Historic Interest
6.70 There are areas of this non statutory designation in the vicinity of the Site. In particular , the following are noted: “Gelligaer Historic Settlement Historic Landscape Characteristics The area is characterised by the nucleated and ancient settlement of Gelligaer, which has been an important military centre and community since the Roman period. The historic core, which is a conservation area, contains nationally important monuments that demonstrate a long and diverse continuity of occupation. The ancient core of Gelligaer, as distinct from the modern urban conurbation extending to the south and west, is a recognisable, distinct and important character area. It represents a historic settlement of considerable importance, time- depth, variety and rarity in the uplands of south-east Wales.
Western Enclosed Common Historic Landscape Characteristics The area is characterised by its enclosed pastureland, which had formerly been open upland common, and small loosely dispersed farm settlement. The field boundaries are of the clawdd type though chronological progression to large dry-stone walling in the northern part of the area is discernible. Prior to the enclosure, which had occurred by the late 18th century, the area had been organised into a field pattern probably associated with the known medieval dispersed settlements in the area.”
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The Conservation Areas of Nelson and Gelligaer
6.71 These lie within the Study Area but neither appears to have any inter-visibility with the Site (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.1). There will be no effect on the visual setting of either of these Conservation Areas.
Llancaiach Fawr
6.72 The Listed Building (Grade I) of Llancaiach Fawr lies around 1.3km to the south-west of the Development. This important heritage asset has an active museum which attracts substantial numbers of visitors all year round. There will be no effect on the visual setting of either of this Listed Building.
Green Wedge
6.73 Part of the north-eastern section of the Site lies within the designated Gelligaer, Penybryn and Penpedairheol Green Wedge. The stated primary purposes of Green Wedge planning policies are to prevent coalescence between settlements and maintain openness.
Landscape Receptor Sensitivity
6.74 Landscape sensitivity is defined by a number of factors, and it does not necessarily follow that a highly valued landscape or landscape feature will always be defined by a high sensitivity. Landscape designation is thus only one of a number of criteria that are considered in identifying the relative ‘sensitivity’ of the landscape to a particular type of proposed development. It should not be used in isolation. We have assessed the overall sensitivity of the existing landscape resource to the type of development proposed, based on the following representative criteria: • Existing land use; • Landscape scale and pattern; • Landscape value12 and quality (condition)13; • Nature of views and degree of visual enclosure and openness;
12 Landscape Value - defined by GLVIA3 as being: ‘The relative value that is attached to different landscapes by society. A landscape may be valued by different stakeholders for a whole variety of reasons.’ 13 Landscape quality (condition) – defined by GLVIA3 as being: ‘A measure of the physical state of the landscape. It may include the extent to which typical character is represented in individual areas, the intactness of the landscape and the condition of individual elements.’
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• Landscape designations present; and • Scope for mitigation.
6.75 The overall sensitivity of a landscape is categorised as high, medium or low for the purposes of this assessment. Table 6.6 below provides information relating to the various criteria affecting landscape sensitivity, so as to identify a final overall level of sensitivity for the local landscape to be ascribed.
6.76 Table 6.6: Sensitivity of the Site and Local Landscape to the Development
LANDSCAPE DESCRIPTION ELEMENT
The Site lies within a formerly agricultural area dominated by pastoral agriculture, bounded on two sides by established high-density residential development at the edges of Gelligaer. To the west and south-west of the Land use Gelliargwellt-Uchaf farmstead, land use is dominated by waste treatment facilities and associated infrastructure. The active sandstone quarry workings lie to the south, at the edge of the shallow valley between Nelson and Penallta.
This is a medium scale landscape. The original irregular field pattern has been locally modified by boundary treatment changes as part of agricultural management, and the changes in land use to accommodate quarrying and Scale and Pattern waste management operations. Small stands of broadleaved woodland and scrub intersperse grassland fields, of varying sizes, which are bounded by a mixture of mature hedgerows with occasional trees, drystone walls and post and wire fences, some flanking drainage ditches.
Although lying within a designated SLA, the Site and its vicinity do not noticeably exhibit the main attributes which the SLA was designated to protect and conserve. The quality of the local landscape is heavily influenced by the degraded appearance of the harsh outer edges of the urban area of Value and Quality Gelligaer, together with the quarrying and waste management activities, and the significant presence of overhead high-voltage electricity transmission lines. Part of the area to the north-east of the proposed Site for the perimeter mounds has been designated by Caerphilly CBC as a Green Wedge, intended to prevent the coalescence of local settlements.
Views out towards the west, south-west and south from the edges of the nearby residential area of Gelligaer are across a relatively flat landscape towards the high ground of the southern and south-western horizons, above Nature of Views the existing quarry workings and the farmstead at Gelliargwellt-Uchaf. These views are marred by the frequent presence of overhead high-voltage electricity lines, carried on steel lattice towers or on wood poles. Open views towards the Site are generally only from medium to long range, with the
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nearest area of high ground with open views being the extensive area of common land on Mynydd Eglwysilan, which is designated Access Land.
The Site lies within the Mynydd Eglwysilan Special Landscape Area identified and designated by Caerphilly CBC. It does not form part of the more Landscape attractive rolling farmland component of this landscape, as referred to in the Designations SLA description; this lies beyond the Site and its immediate environs, to the south and west.
During the construction phase, perimeter screening mounds will be formed in locations which fit within the existing structure and pattern of the local landscape. The outer faces towards Gelligaer and Penybryn will be of gentler gradients. During the operational phase a strong, naturalistic structure of small woodland shrub blocks, together with hedgerows will be planted on and adjacent to the perimeter mounds. There is an opportunity to re-create Scope for Mitigation the main drainage ditch along the north and north-western Site boundaries, so as to maintain effective land drainage for the retained farmland beyond the perimeter mounds, including the Waun Rydd SINC immediately adjacent to the north. The mounding and associated planting would screen the quarry workings and parts of the farmstead and waste management infrastructure in views from the nearby urban edges.
Overall Landscape Moderate: Sensitivity of Site in relation to ability Reasoning: to accommodate development of the The Site lies within the lowlands landscape type identified in the description scale, nature and of the Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA. The Site and its vicinity do not exhibit the extent proposed identified attractive rolling farmland characteristics used to justify the SLA designation; these areas are located further away, to the south and south- west. Although lying partly within an area of land designated as Green Wedge in the adopted Local Development Plan, the Site and its vicinity is not an inherently attractive landscape; and this planning designation is intended to prevent the coalescence of settlements and conserve openness, not to conserve an area of inherently high-value landscape. Although there are views out over the land to the south and south-west, these are substantially marred by the nearby presence of frequent overhead high-voltage electricity lines and their supporting steel lattice towers and wood poles.
Visual Receptors
6.77 The ZVI has identified various potential views within the study area. These views were subsequently assessed in the field, photographically recorded and included in the LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figures 6.6 to 6.18, inclusive, as providing a range of representative views of the Development. These include:
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• A number of potential views of the Site are from the southern edges of Gelligaer and from the western edges of Penybryn. • Desk-top research has identified that there may be effects on other settlements, including Nelson, Taff Merthyr Garden Village and parts of the western edges of Blackwood. • There may be views from a number of isolated rural properties located mostly on higher ground to the north and south of the Site. • There will be views of the Site from sections of the promoted Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Footpath, particularly where this passes quite close to the eastern boundary. • There will be more distant views from local PROW’s and areas of designated Access Land on the high ground of the Mynydd Eglwysilan several kilometres to the south of the Site • Penallta Country Park is an extensive area of designed public open space located around 0.3kms to the south-east of the active quarry Site. It has a notable very large earth sculpture – ‘Sultan’, the Pit Pony – and there are views out from this feature in the direction of the Site. • A section of National Cycle Route 47 runs to the south west of the Site, at around 0.8kms at its closest point. However, it is unlikely there are any views of the Site due to intervening topography and vegetation. • In terms of surrounding public roads, there are several in the vicinity of the Site. The B4254 running between Gelligaer and Nelson is around 0.59kms to the north-west from the nearest section of the proposed screening mounds. To the north and north - east, local residential access roads within Gelligaer and Penybryn are around 0.3 to 0.35kms distant. The A472 main road between Nelson and Ystrad Mynach is around 1km distant to the south west. A minor road (Heol Fawr) leading south-east from the edge of Nelson rises the valley side to reach the Common Land on Mynydd Eglwysilan, reaching an elevation of 302m AOD at its highest point, from which there are extensive open views to the north towards the Bryn Quarry Site. • Potential effects on the visual setting of 2 areas on the Cadw Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest (001 Gelligaer Historic Settlement and 003 Western Enclosed Common). However, it is unlikely there are any views of the Site due to intervening topography and vegetation. • Potential effects on the visual setting of the Conservation Areas of Nelson and Gelligaer. However, there is no inter-visibility with the Site due to intervening topography and vegetation. • Potential effects on the visual setting of the Listed Buildings at Llancaiach Fawr 1.3 kms to the west of the Site. However, it is unlikely that there would be any adverse
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visual effects on the visual setting of Llancaiach Fawr, due to intervening topography and vegetation.
The assessment of Viewpoint Receptor Sensitivities at these viewpoints has been established in accordance with the rationale set out in paragraphs 6.32 to 6.33 inclusive, above, and the criteria set out in Table 6.3.
Table 6.7 Viewpoint Locations and Sensitivities
No Location Grid reference Approxim Designations Receptors Sensitivity and ate approximate distance height (Above to Site Ordnance boundary Datum)
1 From high point at ST12602 93747 2.3kms Special Landscape Area, Recreational High northern end of Publicly Accessible Land users 291m AOD Mynydd Eglwysilan
2 From PRoW east ST12121 94841 1.4kms Special Landscape Area, Recreational High
of Nelson on track Rhymney Valley Ridgeway to Ton-teilwr 213m AOD Walk Promoted PRoW
3 From PRoW south ST11342 94397 2.3kms Special Landscape Area, Recreational High
of Gilwern Rhymney Valley Ridgeway 207m AOD Walk Promoted PRoW
4 From Nelson ST11040 95800 1.7kms None Recreational High Rugby Club access Road users road 161m AOD Residential
5 From Llanchaiach ST11398 96441 1.3kms Special Landscape Area, Visitors to High fawr southern Listed Buildings Heritage parking area 167m AOD Asset
6 Footpath just west ST12340 97821 1.4kms Special Landscape Area, Recreational High
of Llwyn Goleu PRoW 279m AOD
7 From the ‘Sultan’ ST13149 95484 550m Special Landscape Area, Recreational High
Pit Pony sculpture Country Park in Penallta Country 209m AOD
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Park
8 From PRoW in field ST13228 96024 70m Special Landscape Area, Recreational High
immediately to Rhymney Valley Ridgeway south east of 211m AOD Walk Promoted PRoW proposed extension
9 From high point ST13441 96258 120m Special Landscape Area, Recreational High on PRoW in field Rhymney Valley Ridgeway immediately west 223m AOD Walk Promoted PRoW, Green of Penybryn Wedge
10 From Penallta ST13589 96529 250m Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Motorists Low Road where PRoW Walk Promoted PRoW crosses between 212m AOD Recreational Gelligaer and Penybryn
11 PRoW at entry ST13114 96699 190m Special Landscape Area, Recreational High point to Waun PRoW, Green Wedge, SINC
Rydd at western 226M AOD Residential end
Likely Significant Effects
Assessment of Effects on the Landscape Resource
6.78 The LVIA has followed the guidance set out in the current GLVIA3 in respect of differentiating between ‘impacts’ and ‘effects’. This guidance generally distinguishes between the ‘impact’, defined as the action being taken, and the ‘effect’, defined as ‘the change resulting from that action’, and recommends that the terms are used consistently in this way (paragraph 1.15).
6.79 Landscape effects are defined as changes in the elements, characteristics, and qualities of the landscape as a result of development. These effects can be positive, negative or neutral. When identifying and assessing landscape change, it is important to take into account the existing trends for change within the landscape, which may be due to natural processes or human activities.
Construction Phase
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General description of landscape elements
6.80 A detailed description of the development activities is provided in Chapter 5 (Development Methodology and Phasing) of the ES and this forms the basis for the following assessment.
6.81 The Development will be located in excess of 200m from sensitive land uses as its closest point. In addition, a landscape perimeter bund will be constructed around the Site to provide screening to the east and south eastern boundary. (The earth bund on the northern boundary has been granted planning permission (17/0973/FULL) and is currently under construction , and will be completed prior to extraction taking place. Therefore, the landscape and visual baseline for this assessment assumes that this bund has been completed as designed.
6.82 Topsoil will be stripped from areas where bunds will be sited and stored in temporary stockpiles to be re-used on the final surfaces of the bunds (with any excess being used for the future wider restoration of the quarry workings).
6.83 The bunds will be constructed using a combination of overburden to be stripped from areas of future excavation, and a percentage of the waste blast material (dust) which is already stockpiled on Site as part of current quarry operations.
6.84 No fixed permanent structures or buildings are proposed as part of this Development. The Development will utilise the existing access arrangements to the Site, with the retention of the existing green waste facility in the floor of the existing quarry. The existing surface water attenuation management system will be upgraded with new settling lagoons before connecting into the adjacent watercourse. The Biodiversity Chapter and Water Resources Chapter in this ES deal with the predicted effects of the Development on the local hydrology and related habitats.
6.85 There will be effects on the landscape fabric of the Site itself and its immediate vicinity during the construction phase, as a result of ground disturbance, temporary site works, movement of machinery such as earthmovers, the creation of temporary access tracks, and the temporary storage in stockpiles of overburden or topsoil. Disturbance will be temporary and all affected surfaces not forming part of the finished scheme following restoration of the Site will be reinstated. It should be noted that there is already a high degree of disturbance caused by the existing operational quarry activities.
6.86 For the purposes of the assessment of landscape and visual impacts during construction, it is assumed that all the soft landscape works which form part of the Landscape Strategy would
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follow the construction phase and therefore form part of the site’s restoration. The following assessment therefore represents the ‘worst-case’ scenario during construction.
Effects on Landscape Character
6.87 As has been previously noted, LANDMAP places the Site within the geographically extensive Llanfabon Visual and Sensory Aspect Area, evaluated as ‘Moderate’ (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.2). The summary description comments that within this area there is an
‘… incongruous mix of combination of elements of rural field patterns, isolated settlements/farmsteads and built form urban edge and pylons/masts [which] leads to a complex overall character, essentially rural with upland feel. broad views across valleys, and up to upland hills/outliers of Mynydd Eglwysilan and Meio that dominate inward views.’ Management guidelines for this Aspect Area include an objective of softening hard urban edges.
6.88 The area for the approved quarry extension is broadly typical of this character description, being part of the rural field pattern system and, at the same time, much influenced by the close presence of the built edges of Gelligaer and Penybryn. Overhead high-voltage electricity transmission lines, carried on both wooden poles and steel lattice towers, cross the Site or its immediate surrounds and are a long- established and significant influence on the local landscape character. The Development will obviously change the Site area from fields to quarry workings with screening perimeter mounds, but this construction forms part of an extension to an existing facility, rather than a completely new intervention in the countryside. We have noted that 19th century plans also show the presence of quarrying immediately adjacent to the Site, so there is a degree of historic continuity of land use.
6.89 It is our view therefore that the overburden stripping and formation of the proposed screening mounds will have a moderate adverse magnitude of change during construction on the landscape character of the Llanfabon Visual & Sensory Aspect Area.
6.90 The visual character of the neighbouring urban Visual & Sensory Aspect Area of Blackwood (covering the Gelligaer and Penybryn urban areas), evaluated as ‘Low’, would be substantially unaffected by the Development (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.2). The proposed screen mound will not impinge on the ‘distinctive combination of strong north/south trending valleys and prominent hills swathed beneath built form ……’ which are defining elements of this Aspect Area. Likewise, the character of the urban Nelson Visual & Sensory Aspect Area, also evaluated as ‘Low’, is very largely unaffected by the Development. This Aspect Area lies on the valley bottom to the south of the quarry, with no visual relationship to the proposed quarry screening mound, due to the nature of the local
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topography and intervening woodland. The resultant effect on these urban Visual & Sensory Aspect Areas is therefore no change.
6.91 It is our view that the Development will have no effect on the LANDMAP Cynon CLO56 Cultural Aspect Area within which it lies. Evaluated as ‘High’, the character area is seen as ‘green lungs to supplement urban areas’. While there will be a permanent loss of several open fields following the screening mound construction, no public access is affected. The mounds will form part of the final restoration of the Site to agricultural use. The resultant effect on this Cultural Aspect Area is no change.
6.92 The Site lies within the Gelligaer – Blackwood Geological Aspect Area, which is evaluated as being of LANDMAP ‘Moderate’ value. At the construction phase, only parts of the overburden layers will be removed and used to form the screening bunds and there will be no hard rock quarrying. There is also no evidence that the Site area has any specific geological features of value or significance. Therefore, there is likely to be a negligible adverse magnitude of effect to the Geological Aspect Area.
6.93 The Site lies within the Nelson Corridor Historic Aspect Area evaluated as ‘Moderate’. Given that the dominant characteristic of this area is defined as a ‘20th century industrial settlement and transport corridor’, the screening mounds associated with continuing sandstone quarrying activities would fit within this character with a magnitude of effect, which is assessed as being negligible neutral.
6.94 The Site lies within the (un-named) Landscape Habitats Cynon Aspect Area LH133 which is of ‘High’ value. However, much of this value is attributed to rich habitats in the valley bottom - which are unaffected by this Development. The Ecological Impact Assessment Chapter of the ES deals with the predicted effects of the Development at the local and site level of analysis. A number of existing hedgerows – some with hedgerow trees - on the south-eastern boundaries of the proposed extension Site are to be retained, protected and enhanced during the construction works and subsequent mitigation planting works.
6.95 In overall terms, the magnitude of effect of the construction phase on this Landscape Habitats Aspect Area as a whole is evaluated as being negligible adverse.
Special Landscape Areas (SLAs)
6.96 The extensive Gelligaer Common SLA lies to the north side of the B4254 and, although relatively close to the Site, is effectively visually separated from it by the strong vegetation structure neighbouring this main road. There will be no effect at any stage of the Development on this SLA.
6.97 The Site lies at the extreme northern end of the large Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA. The Site lies within the lowlands landscape type, in an area which is visually influenced by the adjacent poor-quality urban
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edges of Gelligaer and Penybryn. It does not form a part of the more ‘attractive rolling farmland’, as referred to in the SLA description; this lies beyond the Site to the south and west and is visually separate from the quarry environs.
6.98 The Development will be visible from the extensive upland area of Mynydd Eglwysilan, some 3km distant to the south. At this range, the extension works are a very small component of the wide panoramic views from the hillside which take in a number of valley settlements and intervening farmland and woodland as well as distant upland horizons. It is the settlements, such as Gelligaer and Penybryn which tend to draw the eye because of their light-coloured buildings and their frequently awkward relationship with topography, as well as single wind turbines which are now a recurrent and influential component of the wider landscape, often viewed with at least a partial land backdrop, thus making them more conspicuous.
6.99 It is our conclusion, therefore, that during the construction phase the proposed works will have a minor adverse magnitude of effect on the landscape character of the Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA which would not be significant.
Cadw Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest
6.100 There appear to be no areas covered by this non-statutory designation which have more than negligible inter-visibility with the Site and Development. There will therefore be a negligible adverse magnitude of effect on such designated areas which would not be significant; Gelligaer 001 Gelligaer Historic Settlement and 003 Western Enclosed Common.
Green Wedge
6.101 Part of the north-eastern section of the Site lies within the designated Gelligaer, Penybryn and Penpedairheol Green Wedge. Green Wedges are planning designations intended to prevent coalescence between settlements and maintain openness. The construction of mounds as permanent landscape features would not be development contrary to the Green Wedge because there is no built development eroding any sense of ‘openness’. Given, therefore, that the proposed earth bunds have been designed to be respectful of the landscape character of their surroundings, there will be no effects which would result in erosion of the sense of openness and coalescence of built form.
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Massing and Scale in the Surrounding Landscape
6.102 The proposed screening mounds are designed in such a way as to be in scale with the surrounding landscape. This medium scale landscape can comfortably assimilate earth modelling to the proposed heights and the profiles are visually sympathetic, with the asymmetrical form allowing for gentler outer slopes, so that the new landform will appear to arise more naturally out of the existing ground than would be the case with mounds constructed with straight lines and harsh, geometric profiles. The location on the edge of an area of relatively flat plateau land, perched as it is above the edge of the broad valley between Nelson and Penallta, means that the new landform will often be screened from lower elevations by a combination of intervening landform and woodland or trees. At close range to the north and north-east, the height of the proposed screening mounds will not obscure views of the higher ground to the south and south-west. For these reasons, the magnitude of effects of the changes of massing and scale on the surrounding landscape arising from the excavation construction phases as envisaged are assessed as minor adverse.
Physical Landscape Effects on Topography
6.103 The construction of the proposed perimeter screening mounds will involve changes to the existing site topography, a topography already substantially altered in detail by successive iterations of previous sandstone extraction and earthwork mitigation. The essential topographic relationship between quarry edge, open relatively flat, and to the east of the Site gently rising, agricultural land and urban edge will, however, not be significantly changed. The magnitude of change to site topography arising from the construction phase as envisaged are therefore assessed as being moderate adverse and significant.
Vegetation
6.104 Some areas of improved agricultural grassland will be removed as part of the construction phase but a number of existing hedgerows, including hedgerow trees, on the south western boundaries of the proposed extension Site will be retained and protected during the construction works. The magnitude of change to site vegetation from a landscape perspective is therefore assessed as being minor adverse and not significant.
Public Rights of Way , Access Land and Public Open Space
6.105 There are no PRsoW at present across and no new links are proposed during the construction phase. Therefore, there will be no direct landscape effects on the local rights of way network or on the route of the promoted Rhymney Valley Ridgeway.
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Significance of Overall Landscape Effects
Overall Landscape Sensitivity
6.106 The Site and the local landscape are assessed as being of moderate landscape sensitivity.
Overall Magnitude of Change
6.107 The Development is an extension to an operational sandstone quarry which is long-established and an area with only limited existing landscape features of value which, in any event, will be substantially retained. The construction of the screening mounds will involve a major magnitude of change on the Site. However, in the surrounding areas the magnitude of change would be much less. The scale and nature of this urban edge landscape can accommodate effectively the Development as envisaged, and the magnitude of change beyond the immediate surrounds of the Site would be generally minor and only locally moderate.
Overall Magnitude and Significance of Landscape Effects
6.108 Given the moderate sensitivity of the landscape receptor and the major landscape magnitude of change, the predicted resultant effect on the landscape of the Site is considered to be major-moderate adverse and significant. However, the level of effect of the completed scheme on the landscape beyond the immediate surrounds to the Site would generally be minor adverse and therefore not significant.
Visual Effects on the Principal Groups of Visual Receptors
Residential Receptors
6.109 Residential receptors are amongst the most sensitive to visual effects. In accordance with GLVIA 3rd Edition, the assessment of visual effects is based on the likely view(s) from ground floor rooms and the garden curtilage that are normally occupied during daylight hours.
Settlements of Gelligaer and Penybryn
6.110 Several properties will have views towards the Site particularly on the southern edges of Gelligaer and on the extreme western edges of Penybryn. The land between Gelligaer and the quarry site is substantially flat, peaty and with intermittent woody vegetation, mostly scrub (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.18). Mynydd Eglwysilan is prominent in the far distance. The consented, partly-constructed earth bund is visible in the middle ground. Even when bunds are fully constructed, some of the views to the hills beyond will be substantially maintained and the bunds will have a gently contoured appearance. The bunding will effectively screen the great majority of the
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proposed quarry extension extraction works. For properties on the southern edge of Gelligaer with a view of the Site, the magnitude of visual effect during the construction phase is anticipated as moderate adverse. This would result in a major-moderate resultant level of effect on these high sensitivity residential receptors which would be significant.
6.111 A few properties on the western edge of Penybryn will experience similar levels of effect to those properties affected in Gelligaer, but the belt of allotments along the rear of the great majority of these residential properties between them and the Site markedly reduces the degree of inter-visibility.
Settlement of Nelson
6.112 While a range of properties have views towards the Site, there would appear to be negligible views of the earth bund or associated works, as they mostly lie over the substantially wooded skyline (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.11). Therefore, the magnitude of effect effects on residential receptors in Nelson is likely to be - at most - negligible adverse during construction and most properties in the settlement will be unaffected.
Taff Merthyr Garden Village
6.113 This small settlement lies to the north of Trelewis and approximately 2.5 kms to the north west of the Site. Some of the properties have oblique views towards the Site, but any construction works are likely to be mostly screened by existing intervening tree and hedgerow cover. Therefore, the magnitude of effect on residential receptors during construction is likely to be negligible adverse at most.
Valued Settings and Views
6.114 The Grade I Listed Building of Llancaiach Fawr lies to the south-west of the Development. This important Caerphilly heritage asset has an active museum attracting substantial numbers of visitors all year round. However, the proposed earth bunds and associated works are completely screened by topography, intervening woodland and hedgerows and there will be no visual effect (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.12).
6.115 The Listed Grade II Gelliargwellt Uchaf Farmhouse and the Grade II listed bee boles located in a wall near the farmhouse are heritage settings located very close to the present operational recycling facilities and the existing quarry is only slightly further away. However, existing mature tree cover does limit the degree of visual inter-visibility. The proposed perimeter screen mounding and overburden stripping works are considerably further away, beyond the existing quarry and approved extension, and therefore
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the magnitude of visual effect during construction is anticipated as negligible adverse at all stages of the Development.
6.116 The Conservation Areas of Nelson and Gelligaer lie within the Study Area but neither appear to have any inter-visibility with the proposed extension Site (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.1). There will be no effect on the visual setting of these Conservation Areas.
6.117 The Site lies within the Special Landscape Area, Mynydd Eglwysilan. For discussion of the effects on this designation, please refer to paragraphs 6.97 to 6.99, inclusive, above.
6.118 Most of Penalta Community Park will be unaffected by the Development, due to topography and the substantial intervening stands of established young mature woody vegetation within the Park. However, there will be some glimpsed views, particularly in winter, of the southern end of the earth bund from a few locations, including from the ‘Sultan’ pit pony sculpture (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.14). Such views will become even more limited as a result of the continuing growth to maturity of the tree canopy in the extensive woodland areas within the country park between even the highest viewpoints and the Site. The magnitude of effect on park users would be a maximum of minor adverse during construction, resulting in a level of effect of moderate-minor adverse on this high sensitivity receptor and not significant.
Public Footpaths, Access Land
6.119 Several public footpaths are in the vicinity of the Site. A section of the promoted Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk runs on a north-east to south-west alignment along the edge of the Penybryn residential area to the south-east of the Site. The removal of one of the high-voltage overhead transmission lines which crossed the line of the footpath has provided a minor improvement in views from the route to the west and south-west. Although the screen bunding will be visible from this footpath, the outer gentle gradients and comparatively low and variable height of the bunding, will assist in its visual assimilation into the wider landscape (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figures 6.15, 6.16 and 6.17). Users of a promoted footpath within a SLA are classified as high sensitivity receptors and the magnitude of visual effect is assessed as moderate adverse during construction, resulting in a level of effect of major-moderate adverse and significant.
6.120 Another footpath, to the west of the Site, runs from the southern edges of Gelligaer in a south westerly direction. Existing tree and hedgerow vegetation will screen much of the earth bunds. The magnitude of effect on footpath users – assessed as moderate sensitivity receptors - would be a maximum of moderate adverse during construction with a resultant level of effect of moderate-minor adverse and not significant.
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6.121 There are extensive areas of designated Access Land on the high ground of Mynydd Eglwysilan. At this range, the construction phase works will be visible but difficult to distinguish because of their muted colours. The light-coloured buildings of the adjacent settlements will be much more visible, drawing the eye. The magnitude of effect on users of the designated Access Land – assessed as of high sensitivity - will be minor adverse at the construction phase of the Development. The resultant level of effect would be moderate-minor adverse and not significant.
6.122 It is likely that there will be no effects on users of the nearby section of National Cycle Route 47, running along the valley floor to the south of the Site, because of the screening effects of intervening landform and mature woodland and scrub vegetation.
Roads
6.123 There appear to be no views from the B4254 running east-west some way to the north of the Site, or from the A472 Caerphilly Road to the south.
6.124 There is likely to be a brief glimpsed view of part of the perimeter screening bunds from a short section of Penallta Road where the high voltage transmission line crosses between Gelligaer and Penybryn (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.17). The magnitude of effect on road users – assessed as of low sensitivity - would be a maximum of minor adverse during construction. The resultant level of effect would be minor-negligible adverse and not significant.
6.125 There would be distant glimpses of the Development from a minor road crossing Mynydd Eglwysilan (At this range, the proposed works will be difficult to discern, and the magnitude of effect will be a maximum of minor adverse during construction). The resultant level of effect would be minor - negligible adverse and not significant.
6.126 There would be some glimpses of the earth bunds from a few sections of the local residential access road network within Gelligaer and Penybryn. The magnitude of effect on road users – assessed as being of low sensitivity - would be a maximum of minor adverse, during construction. The resultant level of effect would be minor - negligible adverse and not significant.
Operational Phase
General description of landscape elements
6.127 The existing quarry will be excavated progressively in a north-easterly direction behind previously constructed associated screening bunds. The resource will be worked in a series
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of ‘cuts’, progressing in a northerly and then westerly direction, beginning at the southern boundary of the Site and extending northwards throughout the proposed working period and subsequently westwards
6.128 The restoration of the Site will be progressed sequentially throughout the life of the mineral operations. The final scheme seeks to restore the land to a combination of broadly agricultural use, together with the incorporation of substantial areas of land which are primarily intended to meet nature conservation objectives. The restoration works will be completed some 7 years following completion of the mineral extraction.
6.129 While the basis of the landscape and ecological principles of the restoration strategy is presented with the planning application, it is proposed that the actual details of the strategy and how it will be realised will be subject to agreement nearer the time that quarrying is du e to be completed.
6.130 The outer sections of the bunds will be constructed first and the outer faces spread with topsoil and seeded at the earliest opportunity, consistent with good horticultural practice and dependent upon suitable weather and ground conditions. Tree, shrub and hedgerow planting of finished restored profiles will be undertaken in the first available planting season.
6.131 Planting will consist of blocks of trees and hedgerows with a rough grassland strip along the edge of the planting to provide ecological connectivity and woodland buffering. Within the transmission line wayleave, where there are height restrictions on planting, native shrub thickets will be established.
6.132 To allow for placement of extracted peat overburden from the consented quarry operations, it is intended to create permanent additional peat relocation areas on, and adjacent to, the quarry bunds. Details of the proposals for the design and establishment of these peat relocation areas are included in the EcIA Chapter of the ES. An area of marshy grassland is linked to the peatland habitat and will be managed for breeding lapwing.
6.133 The incorporation of the constructed peat deposition areas has been integrated into the proposed landscape treatment and at a distance, these areas will appear, in colour and texture, like low heath or scrub cover in winter and as small outliers of the Waun Rydd SINC, blending comfortably into the wider landscape. Eventually, these areas will colonise wit h adapted species of native grasses and broadleaved herbaceous plants and will consequently assume similar colours and textures to those of the wetter and more open parts of the Waun Rydd Site of Importance for Nature Conservation.
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Assessment of Effects on the Landscape Resource
Effects on Landscape Character
6.134 LANDMAP places the Site within the Llanfabon Visual and Sensory Aspect Area, a rural area which, at the same time, is much influenced by the close presence of the prominent built edges of Gelligaer and Penybryn. Overhead high-voltage electricity transmission lines, carried on both wooden poles and steel lattice towers, are long-established and recurrent detractors in the local landscape.
6.135 The perimeter screening mounds will have been constructed during the construction phase. During the operational phase, they will be seeded where there are to be areas of permanent grassland.
6.136 Substantial tree, shrub and hedgerow planting of finished mound profiles will take place using native plant species to add to local landscape character.
6.137 As well as planting on sections of the screening mounds, some off-site planting is proposed on nearby areas, all within the wider landholding of the applicant. This consists of hedgerows with trees, which will combine to improve the wider setting of the proposed quarry. They will also help fulfil part of the wider LANDMAP management objective for this Aspect Area, that of softening the appearance of the nearby urban edges of Gelligaer. When the proposed planting becomes established, users of the public footpath network in the vicinity of the quarry, will be able to experience an improved appreciation of rural landscape.
6.138 It is our view that the proposed screening mound will have a minor adverse effect during the operational phase when grass seeding has taken place and planting is in the process of becoming established.
6.139 The visual character of the neighbouring urban Visual & Sensory Aspect Area of Blackwood (incorporating the Gelligaer and Penybryn residential areas) would be unaffected by the operational phase of the Development.
6.140 There will be no further effect on the on the LANDMAP Cynon CLO56 Cultural Landscape Area.
6.141 The operational phase will involve the extraction and removal of the hard rock resource in the quarry. As such, this will mean geological exposure of rock faces until backfilling and restoration takes place. Although no geological features of note are identified in the general Site vicinity in the LANDMAP entry for Geological Aspect Area ‘Gelligaer-Blackwood’ Cynon GL009, there will be an overall negligible adverse magnitude of effect due to the quarrying operations.
6.142 The operational phase would have no further effects on the Nelson Corridor Historic Aspect Area.
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6.143 The Site lies within the (un-named) Landscape Habitats Cynon Aspect Area LH133. There are areas of disturbed ground on the Site but much of the Site area is improved grassland of relatively low habitat value. The details of the ecological mitigation measures proposed are set out within the Ecological Impact Assessment Chapter of the ES. The landscape mitigation measures will include extensive new lengths of hedgebanks, copses and woodland blocks, all planted with native species trees and shrubs appropriate to the area. The construction of realigned main drainage ditches along some sections of the outer edges of the perimeter screening mounds will create additional wetland habitat and help to secure the favourable management of the marshy grassland areas within the Waun Rydd SINC, located close- by to the north-east. Where peat has to be stripped, it will be directly placed in peat habitat areas on the bunds and restored quarry areas. The EcIA Chapter of the ES deals with the ecological effects on the Site and its immediate locality in detail. However, at the landscape scale of consideration, the overall magnitude of effect on the Landscape Habitats Cynon Aspect Area LH133 of the operational phase of the Development is assessed as minor beneficial but not significant. Special Landscape Areas (SLAs)
6.144 There will be no effects on the Gelligaer Common SLA, which lies to the north side of the B4254, due to the lack of inter-visibility.
6.145 The seeding and planting works which will be carried out in a rolling programme of restoration as the Site is quarried and restored will further assimilate the screening bunds into the surrounding landscape areas of the geographically extensive Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA (that part of the SLA in close vicinity of the Site, as already noted, is in an area which is visually influenced by the adjacent poor-quality urban edges of Gelligaer and Penybryn).
6.146 The upper parts of some quarry faces will be visible at various points during the operational phase from the upland area of Mynydd Eglwysilan, some 3km distant to the south. However, at this range, the extension works are a very small component of the wide panoramic views obtainable from the hillside (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.8). The valley settlements, such as Gelligaer and Penybryn, tend to draw the eye much more than the muted tones of the quarrying operations because of the former’s light-coloured buildings and frequently awkward relationship with topography. In addition, the significant number of single wind turbines, frequently moving elements which are now a recurrent and influential component of the wider landscape, also draw the eye. We therefore conclude that the operational phase of the Development will have a negligible adverse magnitude of effect on the landscape character of the Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA.
Cadw Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest
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6.147 There will be no effects during the operational phase on, Gelligaer 001 Gelligaer Historic Settlement and 003 Western Enclosed Common.
Green Wedge
6.148 There will be no further effects during the operational phase on the designated Gelligaer, Penybryn and Penpedairheol Green Wedge.
Massing and Scale in the Surrounding Landscape
6.149 During the operational phase, the screening mounds will be vegetated with a mixture of stands of woodland, scrub hedgerows and pasture grassland. Behind these screening features, the stone extraction process will take place in combination with a sequential rolling programme of restoration. The magnitude of change to the landscape as a result of the operational phase of the Development will result in minor adverse effects which would not be significant.
Physical Landscape Effects on Topography
6.150 The Development will cause substantial changes to the topography within the Site itself, although the majority of this change will be screened from view from the wider surroundings by the perimeter bunds. Where the excavations are visible from more elevated ground to the south on Mynydd Egwlsylian, then the separation distance, the horizontal and vertical angles of view, and the muted colours of the workings, will combine to minimise the appearance of the topographic changes. The magnitude of effect on Site topography during the operational phase will be medium adverse during construction. The essential topographic relationship between quarry edge, open relatively flat agricultural land and urban edge will, however, not be significantly changed. Physical changes to site topography arising from the completed Development as envisaged are therefore assessed as being minor adverse and not significant.
Vegetation
6.151 A strong planting framework for the proposed screening mounds and areas of adjoining land will be created, combining the retention and enhancement of some existing landscape features on the fringes of the Site with extensive new tree and shrub planting on the completed mounds. The proposed landscape framework, encompassing the completed mounds and some adjoining areas of land and connecting hedgerows, will serve to assimilate the Development into its wider surroundings. The overall magnitude of effects on vegetation arising from the operational phase of the Development are therefore assessed moderate beneficial but not significant.
Public Rights of Way, Access Land and Public Open Space
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6.152 There are no PRoW present across the Site and no new links are proposed as part of the operational phase of the Development. Therefore, there will be no direct landscape effects on the local rights of way network.
Significance of Overall Landscape Effects
Overall Landscape Sensitivity
6.153 The Site and the local landscape are assessed as being of moderate landscape sensitivity.
Overall Magnitude of Change
6.154 The bunds will have already been formed during the construction phase and during the operational phase planting and seeding will take place which, when established, will soften and help assimilate the new landform into the surrounding landscape. Within the area enclosed by the perimeter screening bunds, in the extension area, there will be a sequential rolling programme of extraction followed by restoration, so that at any one time only a part of the extension is open and being worked. The construction of the perimeter screening mounds will involve a moderate magnitude of change on the Site. The magnitude of change beyond the immediate surrounds of the Site would be generally minor and only locally moderate during the operational phase and not significant.
Overall Magnitude and Significance of Landscape Effects
6.155 Given the moderate sensitivity of the landscape receptor and the moderate landscape magnitude of change, the predicted resultant level of effect on the landscape of the Site during the operational phase is considered to be moderate – minor adverse and likely to be significant. However, the level of effect of the completed scheme on the landscape beyond the immediate surrounds to the Site would generally be minor adverse and therefore not significant.
Visual Effects on the Principal Groups of Visual Receptors
Residential Receptors
Settlements of Gelligaer and Penybryn
6.156 The perimeter screening bunds will be planted - and areas of pasture established - during the operational phase. These soft landscape mitigation measures will combine with the gently-contoured bund profiles to visually assimilate the earthwork features into the surrounding landscape.
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6.157 While the earthwork shaping of the bunds will very largely screen the quarry working from view from properties in these settlements, the proposed planting will provide additional screening.
6.158 Some upper parts of the quarry faces will be visible at some stages of the operational phase , but these will be limited and the muted colours of the workings will further reduce visual effects.
6.159 For properties on the southern edge of Gelligaer with a view of the Site, the magnitude of visual effect is anticipated as minor adverse, and locally moderate adverse during the operational phase. The resultant level of effect on these high sensitivity receptors would therefore be moderate- minor adverse, locally major-moderate adverse and therefore potentially significant.
6.160 A few residential properties on the western edge of Penybryn will experience similar levels of effect to those properties affected on the southern edges of Gelligaer, the effects being muted by the intervening belt of allotments to the rear of the majority of these houses.
Settlement of Nelson
6.161 While a range of properties have views towards the Site, there would appear to be little or no views of the earth bunds, as they mostly lie over the skyline. The quarry extraction works will not be visible. Therefore, there are unlikely to be any visual effects on residential receptors in Nelson during the operational phase.
Taff Merthyr Garden Village
6.162 The magnitude of visual effects on residential receptors during the operational phase are likely to negligible adverse at most.
Valued Settings and Views
6.163 The Site of the proposed operational workings will not be visible from the Listed Building of Llancaiach Fawr or its curtilage (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.12).
6.164 The Listed Grade II Gelliargwellt Uchaf Farmhouse and the Grade II listed bee boles located in a wall near the farmhouse. With the proposed quarry extension works beyond the current and consented quarry extension, there will be little effect on the visual setting of these listed structures from the operational phase of the Development. Therefore the magnitude of visual effect is anticipated as negligible adverse.
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6.165 The Conservation Areas of Nelson and Gelligaer appear to have no inter-visibility with the proposed extension Site and the extraction works. There will be no effect on the visual setting of these Conservation Areas.
6.166 The Site lies within the Special Landscape Area, Mynydd Eglwysilan. For discussion of the effects on this designation, please refer to paragraphs 6.144 to 6.146 inclusive, above.
6.167 Most of Penallta Community Park will be unaffected by the Development, but there will be some glimpsed views, particularly in winter, of the southern end of the earth bund from a few locations, including from the viewpoint located at the head of the pit pony sculpture (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figure 6.14). The magnitude of effect on park users would be a maximum of negligible adverse during the operational phase of the development. The resultant level of effect on these high sensitivity receptors would be negligible adverse.
Public Footpaths, Designated Access Land
6.168 The section of the promoted Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk running on a north-east to south-west alignment along the edge of the Penybryn residential area to the south-east of the Site will have views of the previously constructed screen bunding, which with its outer gentle gradients and comparatively low and variable height, combined with mitigation planting, will allow it to be comfortably assimilated into the wider landscape (refer to LVIA Illustrations Appendix, Figures 6.15 & 6.16). Users of a promoted footpath within a SLA would be high sensitivity receptors and the magnitude of visual effect on these is assessed as minor adverse, and locally moderate adverse during the operational phase. The resultant level of effect on these high sensitivity receptors would therefore be moderate-minor adverse, locally major-moderate adverse and so potentially significant in the latter instance. Another local public footpath, to the west of the Site, runs from the southern edges of Gelligaer in a south westerly direction. The existing screen bunds will largely screen the quarry extension extraction works. The magnitude of effect on footpath users – assessed as moderate sensitivity receptors - would be a maximum of moderate adverse during the operational phase. The resultant level of effect on these moderate sensitivity receptors would therefore be moderate-minor adverse and not significant.
6.169 There will be some views of the upper faces of the quarry extraction works from the extensive areas of designated Access Land on the high ground of Mynydd Eglwysilan. At this range, the works will be visible but difficult to distinguish because of their muted colours. The light-coloured buildings of the adjacent settlements will be much more visible, drawing the eye. The magnitude of effect on users of the designated Access Land – assessed as of high sensitivity - will be minor adverse at the operational phase of the Development. The resultant level of effect would therefore be moderate-minor adverse, and not significant.
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6.170 It is likely that there will be no effects on users of the section of National Cycle Route 47 running along the floor of the valley to the south of the Site.
Public Roads
6.171 There are no views from the B4254 running east-west some way to the north of the Site, or from the A472 Caerphilly Road to the south.
6.172 There is likely to be a brief glimpsed view of part of the screening bunds from a short section of Penallta Road where the high voltage transmission line crosses between Gelligaer and Penybryn. The proposed mitigation planting on the bunds will become visible as it is established during the operational phase of the Development. The magnitude of effect on road users – assessed as being of low sensitivity - would be a maximum of minor adverse. The resultant level of effect on these low sensitivity receptors would therefore be minor-negligible adverse.
6.173 There would be distant glimpses of the Development from a minor road crossing Mynydd Eglwysilan (At this range, the proposed quarry extraction works will be difficult to discern, and the magnitude of effect will be a maximum of minor adverse during the operational phase). The resultant level of effect on these low sensitivity receptors would therefore be minor- negligible adverse.
6.174 There may be some brief glimpses of small sections of the upper quarry extraction faces from a few sections of the local road system within Gelligaer and Penybryn. The magnitude of effect on road users – assessed as being of low sensitivity - would be a maximum of minor adverse, during the operational phase. The resultant level of effect would therefore be minor-negligible adverse and not significant.
Mitigation Measures
6.175 The Landscape Institute Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment states: “The purpose of mitigation is to avoid, reduce and where possible remedy or offset any significant negative (adverse) effects on the environment arising from the proposed Development”.
6.176 The proposed landscape mitigation measures have been developed as an iterative process in the development of the scheme proposals. They take account of proposed ecological mitigation measures detailed in the Chapter 7 of the ES. The mitigation proposals are designed to minimise adverse effects and improve the beneficial effect of the proposed scheme on the landscape and visual context of the Site. The degree to which they are adequate and the
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extent of residual landscape and visual impacts taking mitigation into account is considered in the following assessment.
6.177 There are essentially two categories of mitigation measures: • Primary measures that intrinsically comprise part of the development design, evolved through an iterative process; • Secondary measures designed to specifically address the remaining (residual) negative (adverse) impacts of the final development proposals.
6.178 Primary Measures for the Development include:
• Integration of the Site with the Main Site to ensure direct placement of overburden;
• A number of existing hedgerows - including hedgerow trees - on the south western boundaries of the proposed extension Site are to be retained, and protected during the construction works, and reinforced where necessary with additional planting.
• Rolling restoration across the Site to minimise exposure and extent of excavation surfaces;
• The siting and design of the proposed perimeter screening mounds in locations which fit within the existing structure and pattern of the local landscape, wherever practicable. The outer faces towards Gelligaer will be of gentler gradients, for improved visual appearance and to permit subsequent livestock grazing. Some of the outer faces towards Penybryn will be steeper, due to the restrictions imposed by the wayleave requirements for the proper and safe functioning of the overhead transmission line.
• All of the perimeter bunding is to be completed in advance of the commencement of extraction works on the proposed quarry extension.
The re-location of the main drainage ditch to the north and north-west of the new mounds, so as to replace lost sections of ditch and to maintain effective land drainage in the wider site locality, as well as extend the amount of wetland habitat present in the locality, subject to the detailed mitigation measures set out in the Ecological Impact Assessment Chapter of the ES.
6.179 Secondary measures include:
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• New naturalistic tree and shrub planting, on and adjacent to the perimeter mounds, to supplement the screening of the quarry workings and contribute to the landscape of the Special Landscape and Green Wedge land.
• The outer sections of the bunds will be constructed first and the outer faces spread with topsoil and seeded at the earliest opportunity, consistent with good horticultural practice and when suitable ground and weather conditions permit. Tree, shrub and hedgerow planting will be undertaken in the first available planting season. These measures will reduce the visual impact of the bund construction, and also help reduce noise arising from the construction of the inner sections of each bund. This factor has been addressed within the ES Chapter on Noise Assessment.
• Planting will consist of blocks of trees and hedgerows with some areas of grassland and on steeper sections and, native species shrub blocks, within the high voltage transmission live wayleave where there are height restrictions on planting.
• The planting of adjoining hedgerows with trees to re-establish field boundaries and reinforce the local landscape pattern.
• There will be a net increase in Site biodiversity through the establishment of new habitats including species rich hedgerows, hedgerow trees, rough grassland on the fringes of the woodland planting and peatland habitat areas with associated marshy grassland managed for breeding lapwing (refer to the EcIA Chapter of the ES for details).
• Long term sustainable management for all the existing and proposed landscape features, including watercourses and lagoons.
• The landscape proposals have been carefully considered to take account of the high-voltage overhead cables and will be designed in detail to be in accordance with the publication ‘Design Guidelines for Development near High Voltage Overhead Lines’, Appendix 3 published by National Grid.
Residual Effects
Construction
6.188 The proposed construction works will involve topsoil being stripped from areas where bunds will be sited and reused on the final surfaces of the bunds (with any excess being used for the future wider restoration of the quarry workings). The bunds will be formed during the construction period from a combination of overburden to be stripped from areas of future
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excavation, and a percentage of the waste blast material (dust) which is already stockpiled on Site as part of current quarry operations. The bunds will have gentle outer profiles of which will allow them to be well assimilated into the wider landscape. Mitigation will be by the detailed design and positioning of the bunds, as well as by working method including ensuring the retention of as much as possible of boundary vegetation. Residual effec ts will be temporary and are assessed as moderate adverse and significant.
Operational Phase
6.189 During the operational phase, the working method of rolling sequential extraction and restoration will minimise the potential landscape and visual effects. The perimeter bunds will very largely screen the quarry extraction works and further screening and visual assimilation will take effect as the planting becomes established and its density increases.
6.190 The Site will be restored to gentle naturalistic contours and the land to a broadly agricultural use with the incorporation of land intended to meet nature conservation objectives. Residual effects are minor adverse and not significant.
Cumulative Effects
6.191 Best practice Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment guidance contained in the 3rd Edition GLVIA, Page 133, states that the baseline for assessing cumulative and visual effects should include those schemes - and additional potential schemes - that are not yet present in the landscape, but are at various stages in the Development and consenting process, including schemes with planning consent and schemes that are the subject of a valid planning application that has yet to be determined. Schemes that are at a pre-planning or scoping stage are not generally considered in the assessment of cumulative effects.
6.192 In a real sense, the main elements of cumulative assessment are the additional effects of the proposed extension seen in the landscape context of the quarry works which are already consented. However, the additional effects of the proposed extension Site also need to be seen in the context of other relevant projects.
6.193 While, as Para 7.10 of GLVIA states, ‘the focus of the cumulative assessment will be on the additional effect of the project in conjunction with other developments of the same type’ , there will be cases where ‘development of another type or types will be relevant and may help to give a more complete picture of the likely significant cumulative effects’.
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6.194 Potential schemes to be considered for cumulative effects are identified in Chapter 2 (Methodology) of the ES. However, given the different nature of these developments - a residential development in Hengoed and a Lawful Development Certificate for a building at Bryn for the treatment, storage and removal of dust- it is unlikely that there would be any significant cumulative landscape and visual effects when the Site is read in conjunction with them.
Potential Cumulative Landscape Effects
6.195 The history of quarrying and industrial activity in the area has the effect of reducing the effects the Development would have on the existing landscape, particularly given its size relative to the already consented and operational quarry works.
6.196 Therefore the anticipated cumulative landscape effects of the Site are assessed as minor adverse and not significant.
Potential Cumulative Visual Effects
6.197 The Site will be seen in the context of the much larger consented Main Site. The Development consists of mineral extraction, below present ground levels, set within a series of visually low - key, gently-shaped earth bunds with a naturalistic landscape treatment of native tree copses, hedgerows and grassland. Existing woodland and scrub cover and topography will further screen the Site from many directions.
6.198 Given these factors, it is not considered that any of the receptors previously mentioned in this ES Chapter will experience a significant cumulative visual effect. Cumulative visual effects will be negligible adverse and not significant.
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Summary
6.199 This assessment has been prepared by two very experienced Chartered Landscape Architects, each with a detailed knowledge of both the local environment and the wider landscape context, gained over many years of involvement with development schemes at the Site and elsewhere within Caerphilly County Borough. It has used an appropriate methodology and followed the current published best practice guidance for the assessment of landscape and visual impacts (GLVIA 3rd Edition). Current published information on landscape character has been reviewed in accordance with this guidance, informed by detailed field survey work carried out both during the summer and winter seasons.
6.200 The assessment of the existing (baseline) condition of the landscape has taken account of the current published landscape character information and provided appropriate commentary on the evolving state of the receiving landscape, where such information has not kept pace with the changes in both the local and the wider landscape since that information was l ast reviewed by its providers.
6.201 The Site lies within a formerly agricultural area dominated by livestock farming, bounded on two sides by established high-density residential development at the edges of Gelligaer. To the west and south- west of the Gelliargwellt Farm, the land use is dominated by waste treatment facilities and associated infrastructure. The active sandstone quarry workings lie to the south, at the edge of the shallow valley between Nelson and Penallta.
6.202 This is a medium scale landscape. The original irregular field pattern has been locally modified by boundary treatment changes as part of agricultural management, and the changes in land use to accommodate quarrying and waste management operations. Small stands of broadleaved woodland and scrub intersperse grassland fields, of varying sizes, which are bounded by a mixture of mature hedgerows with occasional trees, drystone walls and post and wire fences, some flanking drainage ditches. The Site lies within the lowlands landscape type identified by CCBC in the description of the Mynydd Eglwysilan Special Landscape Area (SLA), but the Site and its vicinity are not representative of the characteristics used to justify the SLA designation.
6.203 Even though there are views out over the land to the south and south-west, these are substantially marred by the nearby presence of frequent overhead high-voltage electricity lines and their supporting steel lattice towers and wood poles. Although lying partly within an area of land designated as Green Wedge in the adopted Local Development Plan, the Site and its vicinity is not an inherently attractive landscape; and, in any event, this planning designation is intended to prevent the coalescence of
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settlements and conserve openness, not to conserve an area of inherently high-value landscape. It is a landscape which is moderately sensitive to the type of Development proposed.
6.204 The assessment of landscape and visual effects arising from the proposed quarry extension has been based upon information provided by particular specialist disciplines within the project team, notably engineering and ecology. The nature and extent of the proposed extension to the stone quarrying operations is such that there will be a relatively concentrated period which will experience a high degree of local change. This change will result from the extensive preparatory works involved – such as the stripping of topsoil and removal of the upper ground layers (overburden) which lie above the stone deposits, and the completion of perimeter screening mounds, which all effectively comprise the construction phase of the works. This phase is followed by a protracted period of effects experienced during the duration of the stone extraction process (the operational phase). However, these effects will be much more restricted, in both nature and extent, arising from a sequence of worked areas which are followed closely by related phased restoration works. The great majority of these works will be entirely contained within the perimeter screening mounds on which planting will also be establishing. This assessment of landscape and visual effects has addressed in detail both the construction and operational phases of the proposed quarry working.
6.205 The findings of the landscape and visual assessment conclude that the few significant effects arising are confined to within a radius of 3kms from the edge of the site, and mostly at much closer range. These effects are mostly predicted to arise from the construction phase of the works when the greatest amount of perceived change is expected to occur. The mitigation of landscape and visual effects arising from the proposed quarry extension has been achieved through the creation of extensive perimeter earth mounds. These enclosing features will be constructed from materials won from stripping the site to expose the sandstone, as well as incorporating inert by-products arising from the current quarrying and stone processing operations. Following the completion of the earthworks, extensive areas of these mounds will be planted with native species of trees and shrub which are appropriate to the wider locality. Other landscape features to be created will include extensive areas of excavated peat, which form part of the overburden materials overlying the sandstone, to be conserved by being carefully deposited in defined specially prepared areas (cells). Here, they will be allowed to develop their own vegetation, both by natural regeneration and by some introduction of wetland plants. Large areas of marshy grassland will also be created and managed as habitat for breeding lapwing, as well as agricultural grassland to be used for cattle grazing by the dairy herd at Gelliargwellt Farm.
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6.206 The implementation of this range of extensive mitigation measures means that the effects remaining after all such measures are taken into account (residual effects) are as set out below.
Construction Phase - Landscape Effects
Landscape Character
6.207 Given the moderate sensitivity of the receiving landscape and the major magnitude of change likely to occur, the predicted resultant effect on the landscape of the Site itself is considered to be major- moderate adverse and significant. However, the level of effect of the completed scheme on the landscape beyond the immediate environs of the Site would generally be minor adverse and therefore not significant.
6.208 The effects on the landscape character of the wider landscape, the identified Llanfabon Visual & Sensory Aspect Area, would be moderate adverse but not significant. The Site and its environs lie within a geographically very extensive Special Landscape Area (SLA) identified and demarcated by Caerphilly CBC as Mynydd Eglwysilan. The Development would have a minor adverse effect on the landscape character of this very large SLA which would not be significant.
6.209 There would be negligible adverse effects upon the nearby areas of the Gelligaer Common Registered Landscape of Special Historic Interest and so these would not be significant.
Green Wedge
6.210 Part of the north-eastern section of the Site lies within the designated Gelligaer, Penybryn and Penpedairheol Green Wedge - intended to prevent coalescence between settlements and maintain openness. The construction of mounds as permanent landscape features would not be development contrary to the Green Wedge policy because there is no built development eroding any sense of ‘openness’. Given, therefore, that the proposed earth bunds have been designed to be respectful of the landscape character of their surroundings, there will be no effects which would result in erosion of the sense of openness and coalescence of built form.
Construction Phase - Visual Effects
Views from Local Residential Areas
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6.211 Several local properties will have views towards the Site, particularly on the southern edges of Gelligaer and on the extreme western edges of Penybryn. The perimeter mounds will effectively screen the great majority of the proposed quarry extension extraction works. For properties on the southern edge of Gelligaer with a direct view of the Site, the magnitude of change in the views would result in a major- moderate resultant level of effect on these high sensitivity residential receptors which would be significant. A few properties on the western edge of Penybryn will experience similar levels of effect to those properties affected in Gelligaer, but the belt of allotments along the rear of the great majority of these residential properties between them and the Site markedly reduces the degree of inter-visibility.
6.212 The magnitude of effect on views from some residential properties in Nelson is likely to be - at most - negligible adverse during construction and most properties in the settlement will be unaffected. From Taff Merthyr Garden Village, around 2.5kms north-west of the Site, some of the properties have oblique views towards the Site, but any construction works are likely to be m ostly screened by existing intervening tree and hedgerow cover, so the level of effect on views from such residential properties during construction is likely to be at most negligible adverse.
Valued Settings and Views
6.213 There would be no effects upon the visual setting of the Gelligaer Conservation Area and the Nelson Conservation Area. There will be no effects upon the visual setting of Llancaiach Fawr, a Grade-I Listed Building heritage attraction. There will be negligible adverse effects on the visual setting of the Grade II-Listed Buildings at Gelliargwellt farmhouse.
6.214 Most views from the nearby Penallta Community Park will be unaffected by the Development, due to intervening topography and dense woodland within the Park. However, there will be some glimpsed views, particularly in winter, of the southern end of the perimeter mound from a few locations, including from the ‘Sultan’ pit pony sculpture. With time, such views will become progressively more limited, as a result of the continuing expansion of the intervening tree cover between even the highest viewpoints and the Site. The magnitude of change in views obtainable by park users would be, at most, minor adverse during construction, resulting in a moderate-minor level of effect which would not be significant.
Views from Public Footpaths, Cycle Routes and Designated Access Land
6.215 Several public footpaths are in the vicinity of the Site. A section of the Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk runs along the edge of the Penybryn residential area to the south-east of the Site. Users of this promoted footpath here are classified as high sensitivity receptors. The predicted level of change in their views is assessed as being moderate adverse, locally major adverse, during construction, resulting in a major-
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moderate adverse, locally major adverse, level of effect which would be significant. From another footpath to the west of the Site, existing tree and hedgerow vegetation will screen much of the perimeter mounds. The magnitude of change in views for these local footpath users would be a maximum of moderate adverse during construction, with a resultant moderate-minor adverse level of effect which would not be significant.
6.216 There are extensive areas of designated Access Land on the high ground of Mynydd Eglwysilan, at around 3kms to the south. At this range, the construction phase works will be visible but difficult to distinguish, because of their muted colours. The light- coloured buildings of the adjacent settlements will be much more visible, drawing the eye. The magnitude of effect on views obtainable by users of the designated Access Land and the minor roads crossing it – assessed as being of high sensitivity - will be minor adverse at the construction phase of the Development. The resultant level of effect would be moderate-minor adverse and not significant.
6.217 It is likely that there will be no effects on users of the nearby section of National Cycle Route 47, running along the valley floor to the south of the Site, because of the screening effects of intervening landform and mature woodland and scrub vegetation.
Views from Public Roads
6.218 There appear to be no views from the B4254 running east-west some way to the north of the Site, or from the A472 Caerphilly Road to the south. There is likely to be a brief glimpsed view of part of the perimeter screening mounds from a short section of Penallta Road, where the high-voltage transmission line crosses between Gelligaer and Penybryn. The magnitude of change in the view obtainable by road users would be a maximum of minor adverse during construction. The resultant level of effect would be minor-negligible adverse and not significant. There would be some glimpses of the perimeter screening mounds from a few sections of the local residential access road network within nearby areas of Gelligaer and Penybryn. The magnitude of change in views obtainable by these road users would be a maximum of minor adverse, during construction. The resultant level of effect would be minor - negligible adverse and not significant.
Operational Phase - Landscape Effects
6.219 The existing quarry will be excavated progressively in a north-easterly direction behind previously constructed perimeter mounds. The resource will be worked in a series of ‘cuts’, progressing in a northerly and then westerly direction, beginning at the southern boundary of the Site. The restoration of the Site will be progressed sequentially throughout the life of
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the quarry operations and be completed some 7 years following completion of the mineral extraction. The completed scheme seeks to restore the land to a combination of broadly agricultural use, together with the incorporation of substantial areas of land which are primarily intended to meet nature conservation objectives.
Landscape Character
6.220 The perimeter screening mounds will have been formed during the construction phase. However, the essential physical relationship between the quarry edge, relatively flat open agricultural land and urban edge will not be significantly changed. During the operational phase, the mounds will be seeded where laid to permanent grassland and, on some steeper sections, stands of woodland and hedgerows will be planted. The overall magnitude of effects on vegetation arising from the operational phase of the Development are therefore assessed moderate and beneficial but not significant. These features, together with further planting on nearby areas of land in the applicant’s ownership, will contribute positively to local landscape character. The proposed landscape framework, encompassing the completed mounds and some adjoining areas of land and connecting hedgerows, will serve to assimilate the Development into its wider surroundings. Consequently, we anticipate that the proposed screening mounds will have only a minor adverse effect during the operational phase. Neighbouring urban landscape character areas would be unaffected.
Public Rights of Way Network
6.221 There are no PRoW present across the Site and no new links are proposed as part of the operational phase of the Development. Therefore, there will be no direct landscape effects on the local rights of way network.
Special Landscape Areas
6.222 There will be no effects on the Gelligaer Common Special Landscape Area, which lies to the north side of the B4254, due to the lack of inter-visibility. The seeding and planting works which will be carried out in a rolling programme of restoration as the Site is quarried and restored will further assimilate the screening bunds into the surrounding landscape areas forming a small part of the very large Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA. The upper parts of some quarry faces will be visible at various points during the operational phase from the upland area of Mynydd Eglwysilan, around 3km to the south. However, at this range, the extension works are a very small component of the very wide panoramic views obtainable from the hillside, views dominated by the pale-coloured buildings of the valley settlements, such as Gelligaer and Penybryn, and the significant number of wind turbines, frequently moving elements. Therefore, the operational phase of the Development will have a negligible adverse magnitude of effect on the landscape character of the Mynydd Eglwysilan SLA.
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Green Wedge
6.223 There will be no further effects during the operational phase on the designated Gelligaer, Penybryn and Penpedairheol Green Wedge.
Registered Historic Landscapes
6.224 There will be no effects during the operational phase on the Gelligaer Common Registered Historic Landscape.
Overall Significance of Landscape Effects
6.225 Given the moderate sensitivity of the local landscape and the moderate landscape magnitude of change, the predicted resultant level of effect on the landscape of the Site during the operational phase is considered to be moderate – minor adverse and significant. However, the level of effect of the completed scheme on the landscape beyond the immediate surrounds to the Site would generally be minor adverse and therefore not significant.
Operational Phase - Visual Effects
Views from Local Residential Areas
6.226 Several local properties will have views towards the Site, particularly on the southern edges of Gelligaer and on the extreme western edges of Penybryn. The perimeter mounds will effectively screen the great majority of the proposed quarry extension extraction works and the planting and seeding will further assimilate these features into the local landscape. Some upper parts of the quarry faces will be visible at some stages of the operational phase, but these will be limited as the colours will be muted. For properties on the southern edge of Gelligaer with a direct view of the Site, the magnitude of change in the views would be mostly minor adverse, but locally moderate adverse during the operational phase. This would result in a maximum major-moderate level of effect on these high sensitivity residential receptors which would be at worst potentially significant. A few properties on the western edge of Penybryn will experience similar levels of effect to those properties affected in Gelligaer, but the belt of allotments along the rear of the great majority of these residential properties between them and the Site would markedly reduce the visual effects.
6.227 While a range of properties have views towards the Site, there would appear to be little or no views of the earth bunds, as they mostly lie over the skyline. The quarry extraction works will not be visible. Therefore, there are unlikely to be any visual effects on residents’ views from Nelson during the operational phase.
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6.228 From Taff Merthyr Garden Village, the magnitude of visual effects on residents’ views during the operational phase are likely to negligible adverse at most.
Valued Settings and Views
6.229 There would be no effects upon views from the Gelligaer Conservation Area and the Nelson Conservation Area. There will be no effects upon views obtainable from Llancaiach Fawr, or its visual setting. There will be negligible adverse effects on the visual setting of the Grade II-Listed Buildings at Gelliargwellt farmhouse.
6.230 Most views from the nearby Penallta Community Park will be unaffected by the Development, due to intervening topography and dense woodland within the Park. However, there will be some glimpsed views, particularly in winter, of the southern end of the perimeter mound from a few locations, including from the head of the pit pony sculpture. The magnitude of effect on park users’ views would be, at most, negligible adverse during the operational phase of the development. The resultant level of effect on these high sensitivity receptors would be negligible adverse and not significant.
Views from Public Footpaths, Cycle Routes and Designated Access Land
6.231 The section of the promoted Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk running on a north-east to south-west alignment along the edge of the Penybryn residential area to the south-east of the Site will have views of the previously constructed screen bunding, which with its outer gentle gradients and comparatively low and variable height, combined with mitigation planting, will allow it to be comfortably assimilated into the wider landscape. Users of a promoted footpath within a SLA would be high sensitivity receptors and the magnitude of visual effect on these is assessed as minor adverse, and locally moderate adverse during the operational phase. The resultant level of effect on these high sensitivity receptors would therefore be moderate-minor adverse, locally major-moderate adverse and so potentially significant in the latter instance.
6.232 Another local public footpath, to the west of the Site, runs from the southern edges of Gelligaer in a south westerly direction. The existing screen bunds will largely screen the quarry extension extraction works. The magnitude of effect on the views obtainable by local footpath users – assessed here as moderate sensitivity receptors - would be a maximum of moderate adverse during the operational phase. The resultant level of effect on these moderate sensitivity receptors would therefore be moderate-minor adverse and not significant.
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6.233 There will be some views of the upper faces of the quarry extraction works from the extensive areas of designated Access Land on the high ground of Mynydd Eglwysilan. At this range, the works will be visible but difficult to distinguish because of their muted colours. The light-coloured buildings of the adjacent settlements will be much more visible, drawing the eye. The magnitude of effect on views obtainable by users of the designated Access Land – assessed as being of high sensitivity - will be minor adverse at the operational phase of the Development. The resultant level of effect would therefore be moderate- minor adverse, and not significant.
6.234 There will be no effects on users of the nearby section of National Cycle Route 47, running along the valley floor to the south of the Site, because of the screening effects of intervening landform and mature woodland and scrub vegetation.
Views from Public Roads
6.235 There appear to be no views from the B4254 running east-west some way to the north of the Site, or from the A472 Caerphilly Road to the south. There is likely to be a brief glimpsed view of part of the perimeter screening mounds from a short section of Penallta Road, where the high-voltage transmission line crosses between Gelligaer and Penybryn. The proposed mitigation planting on the bunds will become visible as it is established during the operational phase of the Development. The magnitude of effect on road users – assessed as being of low sensitivity - would be a maximum of minor adverse. The resultant level of effect on these low sensitivity receptors would therefore be minor- negligible adverse and not significant.
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Table 6.8: Table of Significance – Landscape and Visual Effects
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Construction Phase (including enabling works and extraction phases): Landscape Effects
Mynydd Eglwysilan Special Landscape Temporary Minor Adverse By Design X Minor Adverse Area Not Significant Cadw Registered Historic Landscapes Temporary Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse Not Significant Green Wedge None None None
Massing and Scale in Surrounding Temporary Minor Adverse By Design: X Minor Adverse Landscape sequential Not Significant extraction and progressive restoration Physical Landscape Effects on Temporary Moderate Adverse By Design: X Moderate Adverse Topography sequential Significant extraction and progressive restoration
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Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Vegetation Temporary Minor Adverse By Design: X Minor Adverse sequential Not Significant extraction and progressive restoration Public Rights of Way, Access Land and None None None Public Open Space
Construction Phase (including enabling works and extraction): Visual Effects
Settlements: Gelligaer Temporary Moderate Adverse By Design: prior X Major-Moderate construction of Adverse screen bunds Significant Settlements: Penybryn Temporary Moderate Adverse By Design: prior X Major-Moderate construction of Adverse screen bunds Significant Settlements: Nelson Temporary Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse Not Significant
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Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Settlements: Temporary Negligible Adverse By Design: prior X Negligible Adverse Taff Merthyr Garden Village construction of Not Significant screen bunds Valued Settings and Views: None None None Llancaiach Fawr (Grade I Listed Building) Valued Settings and Views: Temporary Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse Gelliargwellt Uchaf Farmhouse and Not Significant Bee Boles (Grade II Listed Buildings)
Valued Settings and Views: None None None Conservation Areas at Gelligaer and Nelson Penallta Community Park Temporary Minor Adverse By Design: prior X Moderate-Minor construction of Adverse screen bunds Not Significant Public Rights of Way: Temporary Moderate Adverse, By Design: prior X Major-Moderate Footpath west of Penybryn (part of (locally Major construction of Adverse, (locally Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk) Adverse) screen bunds Major Adverse) Significant
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Public Rights of Way: Temporary Moderate Adverse By Design: prior X Moderate-Minor Local footpath North-west of construction of Adverse Gelliargwellt Uchaf Farm screen bunds Not Significant Designated Access Land at Mynydd Temporary Minor Adverse By Design: prior X Moderate-Minor Eglwysilan construction of Adverse screen bunds Not Significant National Cycle Route 47 None None None
Public Road: None None None A472 Caerphilly Road and B4254 Gelligaer Road Public Road: Penallta Road (minor Temporary Minor Adverse By Design X Minor-Negligible road) Adverse Not Significant Public Roads: Gelligaer and Penybryn Temporary Minor Adverse By Design X Minor-Negligible residential access road network Adverse Not Significant Public Road: Minor road on Mynydd Temporary Minor Adverse By Design X Minor-Negligible Eglwysilan (Access Land) Adverse Not Significant
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Completed Development (with all restoration and mitigation in place): Landscape Effects
Landscape Character: Permanent Minor Adverse Planting X Negligible Adverse Perimeter Screening Mound following grass Not Significant seeding Landscape Character: Permanent Minor Beneficial Planting design X Minor Beneficial Landscape Habitats and habitat Not Significant creation Mynydd Eglwysilan Special Landscape Permanent Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse Area Not Significant
Cadw Registered Historic Landscapes None None None
Green Wedge None None None
Massing and Scale in Surrounding Permanent Minor Adverse By Design X Minor Adverse Landscape Not Significant
Physical Landscape Effects on Permanent Minor Adverse By Design X Minor Adverse Topography Not Significant
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Vegetation Permanent Moderate By Design X Moderate Beneficial Beneficial Not Significant Public Rights of Way, Access Land None None None and Public Open Space Completed Development (with all restoration and mitigation in place): Visual Effects
Settlements: southern edge of Permanent Minor Adverse to By Design X Moderate-Minor Gelligaer with a view of the Site (locally) Moderate Adverse Adverse) Not Significant (Locally, Major- Moderate Adverse and so Potentially Significant) Settlements: western edge of Permanent Minor Adverse to By Design X Moderate-Minor Penybryn with a view of the Site (locally) Moderate Adverse Adverse Not Significant (Locally, Major- Moderate Adverse and so Potentially Significant)
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Settlements: None None None Nelson Settlements; Permanent Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse Taff Merthyr Village Not Significant
Valued Settings and Views: None None None Llancaiach Fawr (Grade I Listed Building) Valued Settings and Views: Permanent Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse Gelliargwellt Uchaf Farm Not Significant (Grade II Listed Buildings) Gelligaer and Nelson Conservation None None None Areas Penallta Community Park Permanent Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse Not Significant
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk, west Permanent Minor Adverse to By Design X Moderate-Minor of Penybryn (locally) Moderate Adverse Adverse Not Significant Locally, Major- Moderate Adverse and so Potentially Significant Local Public Right of Way footpath Permanent Moderate Adverse By Design X Moderate-Minor north-west of Gelliargwellt Uchaf Adverse Farm Not Significant Mynydd Eglwysilan – Designated Permanent Minor Adverse By Design X Moderate-Minor Access Land in Special Landscape Adverse Area Not Significant National Cycle Route 47, south of the None None None Site Public Roads: None None None A472 Caerphilly Road and B4254 Gelligaer Road
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
Public Roads: Permanent Minor Adverse By Design X Minor-Negligible Penallta Road minor road Adverse Not Significant Public Roads: Permanent Minor Adverse By Design X Minor-Negligible Minor road on Mynydd Eglwysilan Adverse Not Significant Public Roads: Permanent Minor Adverse By Design X Minor-Negligible Residential access road network in Adverse Gelligaer and Penybryn Not Significant Cumulative Effects
Construction Phase and Completed Development: Landscape Effects
Combined effects with existing Permanent Minor Adverse By Design X Minor Adverse quarrying operations in the locality Not Significant Construction Phase and Completed Development: Visual Effects
Combined effects with existing Permanent Negligible Adverse By Design X Negligible Adverse quarrying operations in the locality Not Significant
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
Geographical Level of Residual Nature of Level of Effect Importance* Effects & Effect Significance Mitigation/ Potential Effect (Major/Moderate/ Enhancement (Permanent/ Minor) (Major/Moderate/ Measures Temporary) (Beneficial/Adverse I UK W R C B L Minor) /Negligible) (Beneficial/Adverse/ Negligible)
* Geographical Level of Importance
I = International; UK = United Kingdom; W = Wales; R = Regional; C = County; B = Borough; L = Local
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020 Bryn Quarry Extension, Gelligaer Landscape and Visual
REFERENCES
i Welsh Government (December 2018) Planning Policy Wales Edition 10
20635/A5/ES2020 July 2020