Planning, Taxi Licensing and Rights of Way Committee Report

Application No: P/2015/0668 Grid Ref: 293366.42 286362.65

Community Valid Date: Officer: Council: 07/08/2015 Dunya Fourie

Applicant: Mr Tudor Jones, Glyn Farm Van Llanidloes sy18 6ne

Location: Glyn Farm, Van, Llanidloes, , SY18 6NE

Proposal: Full: Installation of 1no Wind Turbine (36.6m to tip and 24.8m to hub) equipment cabinet and ancillary development.(grid ref 293366 286362)

Application Application for Full Planning Permission Type:

Reason for Committee Report

The proposed turbine exceeds 24 metres in height.

Site Location and Description

The propose site is approximately 2.4km north west of Llanidloes, the ground comprises semi improved agricultural land and is accessed off the B4518 heading towards .

The is approximately 2.6km north west of the site and Afon Clywedog runs along the valley bottom south west of the sites. The site is within the Clywedog landscape of special historic interest, this area extends to the north and north west of the site too. Glyndwrs way, at its closest point, is approximately 330m north of the site.

This application seeks full planning consent for the erection of a single wind turbine. The turbine is 36.6m to blade tip height and is a three blade construction mounted on a single tower, the blade radius is 23.5, the output of the turbine is 85kW. The application also seeks consent for a 225m2 hardstanding area and electrical cabinet.

Consultee Response

Llanidloes Town Council E mail of 15 September 2015

6 Councillors had No Objection, 2 Councillors Objected and 2 Councillors abstained

Llanidloes without Community Council E mail of 3 September 2015

This application was supported as this development will help sustain the viability of the Farm now and in the future.

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Llandinam Community Council E mail of 28 August 2015

Please be advised that Llandinam Community Council made no comments regarding the above planning application as this development is out of the area

Natural Resource Letter of 17 September 2015

Natural Resources Wales brings together the work of the Countryside Council for Wales, Environment Agency Wales and Forestry Commission Wales, as well as some functions of Welsh Government. Our purpose is to ensure that the natural resources of Wales are sustainably maintained, used and enhanced, now and in the future.

Natural Resources Wales does not object to the propose development.

Landscape:

The proposal is located within the Clywedog Valley Landscape of Historic Interest. While this is not a statutory designation, chapter 6 (section 6.5.25) of Planning Policy Wales (PPW) states that information in the Register of Landscapes of Historic interest should be taken into account by local planning authorities in considering the implications of developments which are of such a scale that they would have a more than local impact on an area in the Register.

Based on the Landscape and Visual Assessment prepared by Lingard Styles, we consider that there would be the following effects:  The siting of the proposed turbine close to the B4518 and within direct views from Glyndwr’s Way would make it a prominent feature of the landscape.  Within westerly journeys along the B4518 woodland enclosure gives way to the open field context and site of the proposed wind turbine. The turbine is likely to appear suddenly within views heightening the sense of impact of the development.  Landscape integrity and tranquillity would be locally affected.  The effect would be experienced by visitors to destinations such as the Clywedog dam and reservoir and those following Glyndwr’s Way national trail.  Wind development with such prominence in this location frequented by visitors exploring the area would therefore have a bearing on people’s perceptions of the Clywedog Valley.

We consider that these are local effects on the landscape and perceptions of the Clywedog Valley Landscape of Historic Interest.

We have considered the proposal in the context of other single wind turbines are present along the edges of the Clywedog Valley, but they are located at some distance from public viewpoints making them a minor component of the landscape, moderating their visual presence and impact.

European Protected Species – Bats:

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The applicant has submitted a preliminary ecological survey and assessment for the purposes of informing the public decision making process (Reference Langton, S. (2015) Ecological Appraisal for a Single Wind Turbine Planning Application: Land at Glyn Farm, Van, Llanidloes, Powys, SY18 7NE. One Planet Works RA-003-210515). We note that the ecological report identifies the habitat suitability for bats as being of ‘medium interest’ and recommends that further surveys are carried out for bats.

However, in this case, we consider the proposal is unlikely to be detrimental to the maintenance of the Favourable Conservation Status of any bat populations present in the environs of the application site due to the following;

The turbine is to be located over 50m from bat habitats including hedgerows/other linear features and woodland; (2) NRW has no records of high risk species in the vicinity of the application site; and (3) The ecological submission identifies that the habitat within the vicinity of the turbine is of medium interest for bats

We are therefore satisfied in this instance that no further surveys are required to inform the decision making process.

Should the location of the proposed survey be revised, NRW would wish to be re-consulted.

Biosecurity:

NRW consider biosecurity to be a material consideration in respect of this proposal. In this case, biosecurity issues concern invasive non-native species (INNS) and diseases.

We therefore advise that any consent includes the imposition of a condition requiring the submission and implementation of a Biosecurity Risk Assessment to the satisfaction of the LPA. We consider that this assessment must include the following detail;

(i) Identification of appropriate measures to control any INNS on site; and

Identification of measures or actions that aim to prevent INNS being introduced to the site for the duration of development and restoration.

The Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2006):

Please note that we have not considered possible effects on all species and habitats listed in section 42 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006, or on the Local Biodiversity Action Plan or other local natural heritage interests. To comply with your authority's duty under section 40 of the NERC Act, to have regard to conserving biodiversity, your decision should take account of possible adverse effects on such interests.

We recommend that you seek further advice from your authority's internal ecological adviser and/or nature conservation organisations such as the local Wildlife Trust, RSPB, etc. The Wales Biodiversity Partnership's web site has guidance for assessing proposals that have implications for section 42 habitats and species (www.biodiversitywales.org.uk).

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To conclude, in our opinion, the development as proposed in its current form is not likely to have an adverse effect on the interests listed above and therefore NRW does not object to the proposal.

Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust E mail of 19 August 2015

We note the included archaeological assessment report and the conclusion that there are no direct or indirect impacts arising from this scheme.

We would therefore have no objection to the proposed turbine at this location.

CADW Letter of 4 September 2015

Cadw’s role in the planning process is to provide the local planning authority with an assessment concerned with the likely impact that the proposal will have on scheduled monuments or registered historic parks and gardens. It is a matter for the local planning authority to then weigh Cadw’s assessment against all the other material considerations in determining whether to approve planning permission, including issues concerned with listed buildings and conservation areas.

The proposed development is located within the vicinity of the following historic assets:

Scheduled Ancient Monuments: MG020 Dinas Camp MG031 Pen y Clun Camp MG082 Pen y Castell MG085 Pen-y-Gaer Camp MG159 Bryntail Lead Mine MG235 Dolgwden Enclosure MG246 Penyclun Lead Mine

MG020 Dinas Camp, MG031 Pen y Clun Camp, MG082 Pen y Castel, MG085 Pen-y-Gaer Camp and MG235 Dolgwden Enclosure are all Iron Age hillforts. In general their location on prominent high hills gives 360 degree views and they were positioned to control the surrounding area, especially valleys and trade routes. Intervisibility between hillforts may have been a factor in their location although due to a lack of systematic investigation it is difficult to know if hill forts were contemporarily occupied.

MG020 Dinas Camp is located on a high spur jutting into the Afon Clywedog Valley some 3.6km to the northwest of the proposed wind turbine. It was located to control the upper part of the, now flooded Afon Clywedog valley. In views to the southeast along the valley and towards MG031 the turbine will be visible in background but this will have a very low impact on the setting of this designated monument.

MG031 Pen y Clun Camp is located on a ridge between the source of the Afon Cerist and the Afon Clywedog valley some 1.2 km to the northwest of the proposed wind turbine. The significant views are therefore eastwards along the Afon Cerist Valley and south towards the Afon Clywedog Valley. The proposed turbine will not be in any of these views, but it will be

4 visible in views to the southeast; however the topography will block the view to the turbine column leaving only the hub and upper blade sweep visible, as such in Cadw’s opinion this will have a low very impact on the setting of this designated monument.

MG082 Pen y Castel is located to on a ridge between the Afon Cerist Valley and its tributary Afon Gwden Valley some 1.8km to the north east of the proposed turbine location. The significant views from the hillfort are therefore, to the southwest, south, south east towards, and along the Afon Cerist Valley and northeast along the Afon Gwden Valley. All of the proposed turbine will be visible in the background in the view to the southwest across Llyn Y Van and the Afon Cerist Valley. In my opinion this will have a low impact on the setting of this designated monument

MG085 Pen-y-Gaer Camp is located on a hill to the west and overlooking the Afon Clywedog Valley some 2.5 km to the west- north-west of the proposed wind turbine. It was located to control the upper part of the Afon Clywedog valley. In views to the southeast along the valley the turbine will be visible to the north of the valley but with high hills behind it. In my opinion, given the size of the turbine and the distance from the hillfort this will be a moderate adverse impact on the setting of this designated monument.

MG235 Dolgwden Enclosure located to on a ridge between the Afon Gwden Valley and the Nant y Bachws Valley some 3.5km to the north east of the proposed turbine location. The significant views from the hillfort are therefore to the north and to the south and south east towards the confluence of the Afon Gwden with the Afon Cerist. The turbine will not be in any of these views but the blades may be visible in the background of the view between this hillfort and MG082 Pen y Castel as such it is my opinion that there would be, at most, a negligible impact on the setting of this monument.

MG159 Bryntail Lead Mine and MG246 Penyclun Lead Mine are the designated remains of the significant lead industry in this area. The position of the mines was dictated by the topography of the area allowing access to the seams of lead. In general the setting of the mines is localised being confined to the buildings of the mines, the spoilt tips, watercourses us for the mine working and the transport routes.

There are three areas of MG159 Bryntail Lead Mine with the closest being located some 1.6km. The designated areas are in the valley bottom and intervening topography and vegetation will limit views to the turbine, therefore in my opinion the impact on the setting of this designated monument will be negligible.

MG246 Penyclun Lead Mine is located 940m to the northwest of the proposed turbine location. The intervening topography and vegetation makes it unlikely that the turbine will be visible from this position and therefore there will be no impact on the setting of this monument.

Historic Landscape: HLW (P) 6 Clywedog Valley

The application area is inside the registered Clywedog Valley Landscape of Special Historic Interest and more specifically inside the Manledd historic landscape character area. The topography and extant vegetation will limit the areas of the registered historic landscape in which the turbine will be visible.

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Conclusion:

The proposed turbine will have a moderate adverse impact on the setting of MG085 Pen-y- Gaer Camp and low adverse impact on MG031 Pen y Clun Camp and MG082 Pen y Castel; a very low adverse impact on MG020 Dinas Camp and a negligible impact on MG159 Bryntail Lead Mine MG235 Dolgwden Enclosure. In my opinion none of these impacts will be significant. The turbine will only have a local impact on the historic landscape.

Environmental Health E mail of 28 August 2015 I have given consideration to the noise impact assessment undertaken and also the cumulative noise impact assessment undertaken. Subject to the applicant having assessed all relevant turbines within a 1km radius of the application site I have no objection to this application providing the standard noise condition within the developers guide is attached to any consent given.

Highway Authority E mail 4 September 2015

No objection

Countryside Services Letter of 25 August 2015

From the information made available at this time, it would appear that public rights of way are not going to be affected by the application. It is noted that part of the access track will run along bridleway 67, therefore, please could you make the applicant aware that at no time should any public right of way be obstructed during the development process and that no materials are to be placed or stored on the line of any public right of way. Any damage caused to the surface of any public right of way must be made good to at least its current condition or better.

The applicant should be made aware that all public rights of way must be unobstructed, safe and available for use at all times.

Countryside Services has no objection to the application based on the information supplied.

Wales and West Utilities Letter of 20 August 2015

According to our mains records Wales & West Utilities has no apparatus in the area of your enquiry. However Gas pipes owned by other GT’s and also privately owned may be present in this area. Information with regard to such pipes should be obtained from the owners.

Safe digging practices, in accordance with HS(G)47, must be used to verify and establish the actual position of mains, pipes, services and other apparatus on site before any mechanical plant is used. It is your responsibility to ensure that this information is provided to all persons (either direct labour or contractors) working for you on or near gas apparatus.

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Please not that the plans are only valid for 28 days from the date and updated plans must be requested before any works commences on site if this period has expired.

Public Response

A site notice was erected on the public right of way sign opposite the site and surrounding properties were notified in writing of the proposed development.

A total of three letters have been received in objection to the proposed development:  Adverse noise impact on neighbouring properties within 1km and down wind of the turbine site  Adverse visual impact  Adverse impact on the character of surrounding listed buildings and scheduled ancient monuments  Adverse impact on birds and other wildlife  Adverse impact on the Clywedog conservation area  Adverse impact on the local landscape

Planning History

P/2013/1082: Installation of a single wind turbine (18.5m to hub height, 22.96m to blade tip and 8.5m rotor diameter). Withdrawn P/2013/0626: Installation of 50 kw micro generation wind turbine 24.6 m to hub and 34.2 m to blade tip with control box and all associated works. Conditional consent granted 10/01/2013 P/2012/0945: Erection of single wind turbine 50kW (36.7m to hub) and associated works. Conditional consent granted 31/01/2013

Principal Planning Policies

National Planning Policy

- Planning Policy Wales (2014)

- Technical Advice Note 5 – Nature Conservation and Planning (2009)

- Technical Advice Note 6 – Planning for Sustainable Rural Communities (2006)

- Technical Advice Note 8 – Renewable Energy (2005)

- Technical Advice Note 11 – Noise (1997)

- Technical Advice Note 13 – Tourism (1997)

- Technical Advice Note 16 – Sport, Recreation and Open Space (2009)

- Technical Advice Note 18 – Transport (2007)

- Techncial Advice Note 23 – Economic Development (2014)

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-Welsh Officer Circular 61/96: Planning and the Historic Environment: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas

- Welsh Office Circular 60/96: Planning and the Historic Environment: Archaeology

Local Planning Policy-Unitary Development Plan for Powys (UDP, March 2010)

UDP SP1: Social, Community and Cultural Sustainability UDP SP3: Natural, Historic and Built Heritage UDP SP6: Development and Transport UDP SP8: Tourism Developments UDP GP1: Development Control UDP GP4: Highway and Parking Requirements UDP ENV1: Agricultural Land UDP ENV2: Safeguarding the Landscape UDP ENV3: Safeguarding Biodiversity and Natural Habitats UDP ENV7: Protected Species UDP ENV 14: Listed Buildings UDP ENV17: Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites UDP EC9: Agricultural Development UDP T2: Traffic Management UDP TR2: Tourist Attractions and Development Areas UDP RL6: Rights of Way and Access to the Countryside UDP E3: Wind power UDP DC9: Protection of Water Resources UDP DC12: Overhead Lines and Pipelines UDP DC13: Surface Water Drainage

Other:

- The University of Edinburgh, Tourism Impact of Wind Farms (April 2012)

- Wales Tourist Board (2003) Investigation into the Potential Impact of Wind Farms on Tourism in Wales, Cardiff: Wales Tourist Board.

- The Economic Impact of Wind Farms on Tourism – Study into the potential economic impact of wind farms and associated infrastructure on the Welsh Tourism Sector (2014)

RDG=Powys Residential Design Guide NAW=National Assembly for Wales TAN= Technical Advice Note UDP=Powys Unitary Development Plan, MIPPS=Ministerial Interim Planning Policy Statement

Officer Appraisal

Section 38 (6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004

Members are advised to consider this application in accordance with Section 38 (6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, which requires that, if regard is to be had to the development plan for the purpose of any determination to be made under the Planning

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Acts, the determination must be made in accordance with the plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise

Principle of Development

Guidance contained within TAN 8 and UDP policy E3 is broadly supportive of onshore wind turbine development.

TAN 8 recognises the role of the local planning authority in balancing renewable energy development and protection of the local environment and its occupants. The policy states “The Planning system has an important role to play in achieving the Assembly Government’s commitment to enabling the deployment of all forms of renewable energy technologies in Wales”. The policy continues, stating “Outside of the onshore windfarm strategic Search Areas, a balance needs to be struck between the desirability of renewable energy and landscape protection. Whilst that balance should not result in severe restriction on the development of wind power capacity, there is a case for avoiding a situation where wind turbines are spread across the whole of a county”.

UDP policy E3 states within the reasoned justification “It is clearly recognised that international, European and national (UK and Welsh) policies and imperatives dictate that there is an obligation to promote renewable energy developments where they are environmentally acceptable”. The justification goes on to state “A careful balance needs to be struck between the pressing need to combat climate change and the need to protect a valued and attractive landscape”.

Paragraph 1.5 and 1.6 of the Design and Access statement confirms the applicant is a livestock farmer, it is stated the turbine would provide electricity to the holding and provide additional income.

The proposed turbine is acceptable in principle, subject to meeting all the detailed considerations.

Landscape Impact

Criterion 1 of UDP policy E3 states “they do not unacceptably adversely affect the environmental and landscape quality of Powys, either on an individual basis or in combination with other proposed or existing similar developments. Where the cumulative impact of proposals in combination with other approved or existing windfarms would be significantly detrimental to overall environmental quality they will be refused”.

This policy context indicates that proposals for wind turbines will only be permitted where they do not unacceptably adversely affect the environmental and landscape quality of Powys.

The site is within the Clwyedog Historic Landscape. Chapter 6 of Planning Policy Wales states “historic landscapes in the second part of the Register should be taken into account by local planning authorities in considering the implications of developments which are of such a scale that they would have a more than local impact on an area on the Register”. Landmap gives the site a landscape value of moderate and a cultural value of outstanding. The landscape surrounding the site is described as small improved grass fields within a rolling

9 landscape. Landmap considers the presence of the Clywedog Reservoir to be the dominant contemporary cultural essence in the area.

Zones of theoretical visibility (ZTV) maps, photomontages, wireframes and a Landscape and Visual Impact Report comprise the applicants assessment of the landscape and visual impact of the proposed turbine, individually and cumulatively with other proposed and operational turbine development in the surrounding area.

The individual ZTV shows the turbine blade tip would be visible within short range views, including within the Clwyedoc Historic Landscape, nearby listed buildings and Llanidloes. The cumulative ZTV shows between 20-64 turbines would be visible from the turbine site, these figures largely include turbines within windfarms which would appear within long range views from the site.

At approximately 36.6m to blade tip height and a rotor radius of 23, the turbine would be viewed as a new vertical, moving and man-made element within the landscape. The proposed turbine would be significantly taller than existing features in proximity to the site. The turbine would undoubtedly constitute a substantial feature on the local skyline.

NRW’s consultation response raises 5 points regarding the landscape impact of the proposed turbine. Public consultation responses received raise concern regarding the impact of turbine development on the surrounding landscape.

CADW confirm in their response the turbine is inside the registered Clywedog Valley Landscape of Special Historic Interest and more specifically inside the Manledd historic landscape character area. CADW state in their response “the topography and extant vegetation will limit the areas of the registered historic landscape in which the turbine will be visible”, the photomontages provided contradict this statement, all the viewpoints are taken within the Clywedog Valley Landscape and show the turbine mast and blade radius would be visible without screening from the existing surrounding topography.

Based on the information submitted and the sensitive nature and open nature of the surrounding landscape, the turbine, primarily due to height of the turbine and prominent siting, would result in it appearing unduly dominant and harmful to the landscape’s character. It is therefore concluded the turbine would have and unacceptably adversely affect the landscape quality of the area, contrary to policies GP1, ENV2, and E3.

Visual Impact

Landmap gives the site a visual and sensory a value of ‘high’, the justification notes the valuation is based on the panoramic views available and distinctive minded landscape adjacent to the Dylife.

A total of 6 individual turbine photomontages and wireframes have been submitted, the viewpoints include the viewpoint from B road at Cefngoleugoed, Llanidloes, viewpoint close to the Old Lead Mine SAM, trip point on Byrn y Fan and Glyndwrs Way. Based on the photomontages provided, the blade radius and the mast would be visible from all the viewpoints selected. These view points are all mid and short range.

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Whilst only one viewpoint (VP6) has been provided from Llanidloes, it shows the turbine would be visible from the entrance of Parc Derwen Fawr, based on the ZTV it is likely the turbine would be visible from other locations within the town, although some of these views may be of only part of the development. Whilst the turbine viewed from VP6 occupies a prominent location and is clearly visible the turbine is sufficiently distanced so as not to dominate views out of the town.

The turbine would be visible from various roads within the local area. However it is the visual impact on receptors travelling westerly on the B4518 who would experience the greatest visual impact (VP1). The scale of the turbine and the siting of the turbine close to the summit of the hill, result in the turbine dominating views and would impact visually on those receptors using the B4518. Indeed, NRW note in their response “Within westerly journeys along the B4518 woodland enclosure gives way to the open field context and site of the proposed wind turbine. The turbine is likely to appear suddenly within views heightening the sense of impact of the development”. An additional viewpoint (VP2) is taken from minor road south of the site near Bronheulwen, the elevation of this road allows views across the rolling hills in a north easterly direction, the turbine would be dominant within receptors views at short range and set against the panoramic backdrop its dominance is emphasised.

The Clywedog Historic Landscape is recognised as an area with outgoing panoramic views, there is a viewing platform close to the Dam at the Old Lead Mine which is also a SAM. The turbine is clearly visible from this viewpoint, however the mid range view, intervening view of the scattered farm complex of Biddfald and the backdrop of the Llandinam windfarm reduce the visual impact of the turbine within this view. The photomontage shows the turbine finished in white, where the turbine is viewed with a landscape backdrop, the impact of the turbine could be lessen through a darker finish such as ‘RAL700-squirrel grey, an alternative finish could be achieved through a condition. The viewpoint (VP4) from Bryn y Fan trig point demonstrates the full turbine would be visible and is viewed in combination with the operational turbine (P/2012/0945). The mid range views together with a darker turbine finish, reduces the individual impact of the turbine from this viewpoint.

Residential receptors:

The Landscape and Visual Report states “all residential receptors are considered to by High Sensitive receptors, given the likelihood that views out may be highly valued and that views may have the potential to be highly susceptible to change”. However, no viewpoints have been provided from the nearest un-associated properties; Dyffryn, Coed Y Glyn and Biddfald. Viewpoint 1 is the closest to un-associated residential property; Cefngoleugod and Ty Llwyd.

Dyffryn is approximately 350m west of the turbine site. The Landscape and Visual Report confirm the upper sweep of the blade sweep would be visible from this property and this is confirmed by the ZTV. In the absence of a viewpoint from these properties it is not possible to assess the turbines visual impact on this property. Coed Y Glyn is approximately 380m from the turbine site, this receptor is separated from the turbine site by intervening existing woodland and the ZTV shows the turbine would not be visible from this receptor due to topography. Biddfald is at a lower ground level than the turbine and would benefit from screening from the intervening deciduous woodland. The ZTV does confirm the turbine would be visible from this dwelling, however as the ZTV is based on blade tip height it may be that only part of the turbine would be visible. In the absence of a viewpoint the extent of visibility is difficult to confirm. It is important to note the dynamic sweep of turbine blades

11 through the skyline can be visually distracting especially when the turbine is at short range such as this one. As such a viewpoint from this location would be necessary to assess the extent of the visual impact of the turbine on this dwelling.

Ty Llwyd and The Glyn complex are the closest listed buildings. VP1 is taken 200m to the south of Ty Llwyd and shows the turbine mast and blade to be prominent on the hill within short range views, directly west of the site. Based on the ZTV the turbine would be visible from The Glyn farm complex. In the absence of viewpoints from these features it is difficult to ascertain whether or not the turbine would have and unacceptable adverse impact on the designated features. A response the Built Heritage Officer shall be included within the update report to Members.

Impact on receptors of the public right of way network:

The view of the turbine from Glyndwrs Way as it travels to the north of the site would be short range, Glyndwrs Way and was granted National Trail status in 2000 and is the third National Trail in Wales, the Trail is approximately 135miles which comprises an extended loop through Powys.

NRW state in their response “The siting of the proposed turbine close to the B4518 and within direct views from Glyndwr’s Way would make it a prominent feature of the landscape” and “The effect would be experienced by visitors to destinations such as the Clywedog dam and reservoir and those following Glyndwr’s Way national trail”.

The view of the turbine from Glyndwrs Way is shown in VP5 and VP3, approximately 2.1km to the east and 2km to the north west respectively from the turbine site. It is disappointing a viewpoint is not provided from Glyndwrs Way at its closest point to the site, approximately 330m to the north. In consideration of the dominant view of the turbine from VP1 and the proximity of the National Trail to this viewpoint, the viewpoints submitted are not considered representative of the visual prominence of the turbine from this section of Glyndwrs Way. It is accepted that on sections of Glyndwrs Way the views of the turbine would be intermittent and appear in long range views and the attention of the visual receptors could be distracted by other landscape features in directions other than toward the turbine. However based on the information provided, the turbine would be visually dominant within short range views (VP1) and Glyndwrs Way passes within 350m of the turbine. It is accepted the development would not have an adverse effect on the form of the Trail itself, nevertheless the effect of the turbine on the amenity of visual receptors using the sections of Glyndwrs Way would be significant. Indeed NRW state “Wind development with such prominence in this location frequented by visitors exploring the area would therefore have a bearing on people’s perceptions of the Clywedog Valley”.

The Severn Way and Sustrains cycle routes are to the south of the turbine site, VP2 and VP5 are relatively close to these routes and demonstrate that while the turbine would be visible, it would not appear dominant at mid-range.

Cumulative impact:

Other turbines relevant to the cumulative effect include the operational single turbine (P/2012/0945), Llandinam windfarm, Bryn Titli and Cefn Croes. However, due to the

12 separation distance between the site and these developments it is accepted that there would be no unacceptable cumulative effect.

Conclusion There is no dispute that the turbine would be visible within the landscape but the issue to be determined is whether the development would be likely to have an unacceptable adverse effect on visual amenity. It is concluded the turbine would highly visible within some mid and short range views and would dominate locally in the context of the wider landscape. In conclusion, the proposed development would cause the degradation of views enjoyed by local residents and visitors to the area resulting in a unacceptable level of harm to visual amenity and as such is contrary to policies ENV2 and E3.

Historic Impact

Policies ENV14 and ENV17 seek to protect the character and setting of listed buildings, ancient monuments and archaeological sites. The surrounding area, within 1km, there is an abundance of features designated for their historic value.

Landmap gives the area a historic value of high, the justification for this valuation is based on the dominance by medieval and scattered farms and houses, but also a number of earlier prehistoric burial and ritual monuments and later prehistoric hillforts and enclosures.

CADW list in their response 7 SAMs as historic assets within 4km of the turbine site. A number of the SAMs comprise camps located on high ground and the closest SAM is Penyclun Lead Mine 940m to the north west of the site and V3 demonstrates the turbine visibility from this feature.

A Historic Environmental Assessment carried out by Tyrsor was submitted with the application, the report appraised the historic assets (including SAMs and listed buildings) within 2km radius of the site. The findings of the report concluded that there would be no direct, physical impact on any historic assets, and there would not be a significant indirect, visual impact on the historic environment, or on individual historic assets from the proposed development within a 2km radius.

The closest listed building is the applicant’s own property; The Glyn, the dwelling and outbuildings are Grade II Listed, no viewpoint is provided from this feature. Grade II Listed Building, Ty llwyd is approximately 940m from the site, the turbine would be visible from this property however no viewpoint is provided.

CADW and CPAT note number and proximity of SAMs in the area, however both Authorities concur with the Historic Environment Assessment in that there would not be an unacceptable adverse impact on the character or setting of these features.

Based on the relevant Authority’s consultation responses and with the benefit of VP2 close to the nearest SAM, it is considered that the proposed turbine development would not have a unacceptable adverse impact on the character or setting of the surrounding SAMs.

The designated listed buildings sited much closer to the proposed development, while it is accepted the development would not alter the form of these features, it is important to consider whether the proposed development would have an unacceptable adverse effect on

13 their character or setting. A response from the built heritage officer shall be provided within the update report.

Neighbour amenity impact

Wind turbines have the potential to create noise from the mechanics of the turbine itself and the movement of the rotor blades through the air.

The nearest unassociated residential properties are Dyffryn and Coed Y Glyn are within 400m of the turbine. These distances are not in excess of the 500m separation distance generally used as a guide to avoid unacceptable noise impacts, however the dwellings are cited at substantially lower ground level.

The submitted noise assessment states that noise at all sensitive receptor properties would be below the limits set out in ETSU-R-97 and conditions can be used to ensure that recommendations on noise levels would not be exceeded in practice. It is on this basis it is considered that the living conditions of occupiers of the nearest uninvolved properties would not be unacceptably affected by noise. This is supported by the Environmental Health department who raise no objection on noise amenity grounds.

With regard to shadow flicker it is generally accepted that significant shadow effects will not occur beyond a distance of 10 times rotor diameter. The blade diameter is 23.5, as such shadow flicker effects will not occur beyond 230m, the un-associated dwellings are over 350m from the turbine. Given these separation distances, I am satisfied that local residents would not be affected by shadow flicker.

Impact on Ecology and Biodiversity

Turbine development has the potential to impact on ecology, impacts include habitat changes at the site and collision of bats and birds with the dynamic turbine blades. Policy ENV3 seeks to protect biodiversity and natural habitats from adverse forms of development. Policy ENV7 reinforces the protection afforded to European protected species.

The application is supported by an ecological appraisal carried out by One Planet Works. The findings of the Assessments concluded the development would not have a detrimental impact on protected species. The appraisal does recognise the potential for red kites to nest in Birthdir Wood some 300m from the site, it also recognises the surrounding landscape has potential for supporting bats and suggest further survey work be carried out.

NRW note the findings of the Assessment, however note the turbine is located over 50m from the nearest hedgerow, they go on to note that other more favourable linear features and woodland surround the site and the site habitat is of medium interest for bats with no high risk bat species within the area. Therefore NRW consider the turbine would not have a detrimental impact on the favourable conservation status of any bat population present and as such are satisfied no further survey work is required.

Should Members be minded to grant consent, it is recommended that conditions restricting the construction timeframe and biosecurity should be included in order to safeguard biodiversity.

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Impact on the Highway Network

Access to the site would be via the existing single track access road off the B4518 and through the applicant’s farm complex and Glyn farm. The turbine would need to cover a short distance across agricultural land between the highway and turbine site. The turbine components to be transported would not require transportation of abnormal indivisible loads.

The Highway Authority are satisfied the turbine could be transported to site without undue disruption of the highway network or harm to highway safety, in accordance with Policy GP4 and E3 of the UDP.

Impact the Public Rights of Way Network

Policy RL6 concerns rights of way within Powys and access to the countryside, this policy seeks to safeguard the existing public right of way network. The immediate area surrounding the turbine is host to a public right of way network, including footpaths, bridleways and National walking and cycle trails.

The site is approximately 360m from the nearest bridleway; bridleway 67, the turbine siting complies with the British Horse Society separation distance and as such Members are advised it is considered the turbine development would not curtail the local bridleway route available to riders or other users and as such no objection is raised under policy RL6.

Countryside Services support this view provided the route is not obstructed during construction or operation of the turbine.

Impact on Social Economics

The Mid Wales Tourism Strategy (TPMW, 2011) recognises the natural environment as Powys’ key visitor asset. Wind turbine development mainly through its landscape and visual impact has the potential to alter the natural environment by changing the landscape character. The proposed turbine is located within proximity of recreational and tourism assets including public rights of way (including bridleways), cultural heritage assets and open access land.

Policy TR2 of the Unitary Development Plan states that development of any kind which would have an unacceptable adverse effect upon the environmental setting of established tourist attractions will be opposed.

Having researched the subject of the socio-economic impact of wind turbine development; it is considered that there is limited information available. Notwithstanding this, there are two relatively recent Inspector’s Reports that may help Members address this issue which are detailed below. Members however need to ensure that they determine this application on its own merits.

Fullabrook Down Wind Farm (2007): Inspector’s Report (page 48):

“The question of impacts on tourism is extremely nebulous and vulnerable to assessment by assumption rather than by evidence; it is an area where it is easy to hold opinions but harder to back them up with firm data. There is also the fact that in15 or so years of wind farm

15 development no evidence has ever emerged from developed sites that tourism has suffered as a result”.

Middlemoor Wind Farm: Inspector’s Report (2008): (page 89):

“There appears to be no evidence from other parts of the country or abroad to suggest that the presence of wind farms in open countryside has harmed the tourism industry. Both Cumbria and Cornwall have experienced a rise in tourist numbers since the first wind farms were installed. According to the presentation prepared by the British Wind Energy Association to the All-party Parliamentary Group on Tourism, 24 May 2006, surveys and reports investigating wind energy and tourism demonstrate that the effect on tourism is negligible at worst, with many respondents taking a positive view of wind farms.

The presentation argues that the judgement of acceptability based on landscape protection will provide ample protection from tourism since, in general, landscape is more vulnerable to wind farm development than is tourism. Therefore, if there is deemed to be no damage to landscape at the planning stage, there is unlikely to be damage to tourism”

Research has been carried out in the United Kingdom to establish whether wind farms are seen as having a negative impact on tourism. A study carried out by the University of Edinburgh as a submission to the Renewables Inquiry of the Scottish Government entitled “Tourism impact on wind farms”1 provided the following conclusion:

“In conclusion, the findings from both primary and secondary research relating to the actual and potential tourism impact of wind farms indicate that there will be neither an overall decline in the number of tourists visiting an area nor any overall financial loss in tourism- related earnings as a result of a wind farm development.”

It is advised that consideration is also given to the “Study into the Potential Economic Impact of Wind Farms and Associated Grid Infrastructure on the Welsh Tourism Sector” by Regeneris Consulting Ltd (February 2014) for the Welsh Government. This is an up to date piece of research and is Welsh specific. It is an extensive report (145 pages long), takes in a wide variety of literature and uses case studies to look at the impact of wind farm development. The study is complex, but it is considered reasonable to state that it emphasises the need to look at each case and situation on its own merits. The study offers the following advice in relation to the scale of development and potential considerations:

“5.54 The authors of this study argue that it is the degree to which a development changes the character of the landscape rather than its absolute size that is the driving factor. While there is clearly a relationship between turbine size and number of turbines and the impact on landscape character these findings suggest that landscape context is as important as the characteristics of the development itself in determining impact. That is, a large wind farm in a landscape with lots of other man-made structures could have less of an impact than a single turbine in an area of particularly high landscape value.

5.55 This suggests that the context for the development is a critical factor in determining potential tourism impacts. The findings of relevant studies suggest that the context for the development influences three inter-related factors: the nature of the landscape, the importance of landscape in an area’s tourism offer and the characteristics and interests of visitors to a particular tourism area.”

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The report tends to focus on the large scale wind farm development where there is significant landscape change. Paragraphs 5.54 and 5.55 do it is considered highlight the potential for harm to tourism from a single turbine in an inappropriate location. The suggested considerations in 5.55 are considered helpful in assessing this issue e.g. the need to consider the nature of the landscape (and the nature of the change from the turbine), the importance of the landscape in an area’s tourism offer and the characteristics and interests of visitors to a particular tourism area.

The report also identifies that there may be higher sensitivity to wind farms for certain visitor markets in close proximity to wind farms, stating:

9.17 While most of the evidence points toward limited impacts on tourism from wind farms, there are examples of certain locations which are, on balance, more sensitive to wind farm development. This is on account of their landscapes, types of visitor, limited product diversity and proximity to wind farms. This is particularly the case where the key visitor markets are older people visiting for the tranquillity, remoteness and natural scenery offered in some parts of Wales. Remoter parts of Powys are the most notable examples of where this may be the case.

9.18 In these locations, the study has concluded that the potential negative effect on visitor numbers may still be low overall, but in some circumstances could be moderate. The case studies have revealed that there is clearly a great deal of uncertainty around the potential impact which may arise in practice. Greatest concern exists amongst areas and businesses closest to wind farms and appealing to visitor markets most sensitive to changes in landscape quality. The case studies did highlight some businesses reporting negative reaction from visitors and also holding back investment on account of the uncertain impact, although a majority were not affected negatively at all.

9.19 Although these areas account for a small proportion of tourism employment in Wales as a whole, the narrow economic base in these areas means the sector is an important source of local employment and income. The businesses in these locations may be sensitive even to small changes in visitor numbers as a result of wind farm development. They may have a particular challenge for businesses replacing those visitors which are deterred in areas where there may be limited appeal for other visitor markets.

The research is not considered to be a categorical statement on the positive or negative impact of wind turbines on tourism. There is also likely to be other research available, but as a Local Planning Authority we are not aware of robust evidence of a detrimental impact. To paraphrase the Inspector’s decision notice above the whole issue of detrimental tourism impacts is a nebulous issue vulnerable to assessment by assumption rather than by evidence. There is little general evidence to support the assertion that the development of wind turbines will always have a detrimental economic impact on tourism.

Whilst the above considers the general situation and identifies some points raised by relevant research; the important consideration to take into account is the impact of this specific proposal on tourism. The area has a scenic value and there are a number of recreational assets as highlighted previously within the report, all of which are likely to be appreciated by tourists, including horse riders and ramblers.

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Advising on the impact on tourism is difficult and the Local Planning Authority must be wary of straying into areas of un-evidenced assumption. While it may seem reasonable to consider that some visitors or that particular types of tourists such as horse riders could be put off by wind farm development in this general area, this is not well evidenced. Given the lack of evidence, Members are advised that a recommendation for refusal on the grounds of an adverse impact on tourism is considered difficult to sustain.

Recommendation

Whilst noting the potential farm diversification benefits, it is not considered that this outweighs the landscape and visual impact of the proposed development. The recommendation is therefore one of refusal.

Reason for refusal

1. The turbine would have a detrimental visual impact within short range views from within the Clywedog Historic Landscape and Glyndwrs Way, as such the proposed development fails to accord with Powys Unitary Development Plan (2010) policies GP1, ENV2 and E3.

2. A turbine of the proposed height and scale in the proposed location would appear unduly dominant within the landscape and as such it would have an unacceptable adverse effect on the landscape quality of the area. The proposed development fails to accord with Powys Unitary Development Plan (2010) policies GP1, ENV2 and E3.

3. Insufficient information has been submitted to assess the visual amenity impact on nearby residential properties. The proposed development fails to accord with Powys Unitary Development Plan (2010) policies GP1 and E3.

______Case Officer: Dunya Fourie- Planning Officer Tel: 01597 82 7230 E-mail:[email protected]

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