LLANMOOR HOMES

LAND AT ELMS FARM

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

July 2014

4 Stangate House, Stanwell Road, , Vale of , . CF64 2AA

Telephone:- 029 2040 8476 Facsimile:- 029 2040 8482 e-mail:- [email protected] Web Site:- www.soltysbrewster.com

LLANMOOR HOMES LAND AT ELMS FARM LLANHARRY LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

DOCUMENT REF: 1348102/PL/R01 /July 2014

Issue Revision Stage Date Approved by Signed

1 * DRAFT 14 May 2014 Simon Brewster

2 A FINAL ISSUE 10-06-14 Simon Brewster

3 B FINAL ISSUE 11-06-14 Simon Brewster

4 C FINAL ISSUE 03-07-14 Simon Brewster

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction

2.0 The Site

3.0 The Wider Landscape and Study Area

4.0 Landscape Policy and Designations

5.0 Existing Landscape Character

6.0 Assessment of Effects on Landscape Character

7.0 Visual Assessment Baseline

8.0 Visual Assessment

9.0 Conclusions

References

FIGURES: Figure 01 Site Location and Designations Plan Figure 02 Estimated Visual Envelope and Viewpoint Locations Figure 03 LANDMAP Cultural Landscapes Group and Rarity Evaluation Criteria Filtering Figure 04 LANDMAP Cultural Landscapes Level 3 Classification Figure 05 LANDMAP Geological Landscapes Overall Evaluation Filtering Figure 06 LANDMAP Geological Landscapes Level 3 Classification Figure 07 LANDMAP Historic Landscapes Overall Evaluation Filtering Figure 08 LANDMAP Historic Landscape Level 3 Classification Figure 09 LANDMAP Landscape Habitats Overall Evaluation Filtering Figure 10 LANDMAP Landscape Habitats Level 3 Classification Figure 11 LANDMAP Visual and Sensory Overall Evaluation Filtering Figure 12 LANDMAP Visual and Sensory Level 3 Classification Figure 13 LANDMAP Landscape Character Areas Figure 14 Viewpoint 1: Strawberry Lane flyover Figure 15 Viewpoint 2: Minor road nr Trecastell Farm Figure 16 Viewpoint 3: Llanharry Road nr Torgelli Farm Figure 17 Viewpoint 4: PRoW South of Coed Cae Farm

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1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Soltys Brewster Consulting were commissioned by Llanmoor Homes to undertake a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment in support of a candidate site submission and an outline planning application for residential development on land at Elms Farm Llanharry. Appropriate to the nature and scale of the development, the study area within which effects on landscape character and visual amenity are judged and assessed, extends to 3km from the centre of the site. Beyond 3km changes in landscape character and visual amenity brought about by the proposed development are unlikely to be of significance.

1.2 The study area encompasses lands within two local authority boundaries – Cynon Taff and the of which the proposal site falls wholly within the county boundary of .

1.3 The proposed development is centred at OS grid reference 301971,180413 (See Figure 01), and covers an area of approximately 2.3 hectares.

1.4 This assessment is informed by the access and land use parameter plan prepared by Hammond Architectural Services. It is understood that the outline proposal is for up to 80 residential units with a maximum 2.5 storey height. The point of access will be on Stryd Silurian, which in turn is accessed from Llanharry Road. An area of public open space is located centrally and to the south of the proposed development site abutting the M4 embankment. It is understood that proposed ground works on the site will be fairly limited given the site’s reasonably flat topography.

1.5 Llanmoor Homes intends to implement an advanced planting scheme on site in autumn 2014 to reduce any visible impact that may occur as a result of the development. This includes planting to the south east corner, eastern boundary and north east corner.

1.6 This Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment includes the following approach:  Desk top study and review of available information including Rhonnda Cynon Taf Council (RCTCBC), Vale of Glamorgan County Borough Council, Natural Resources LANDMAP GIS data and other current and relevant available information that pertains to the site and its surrounds.  Site inspection and assessment carried out in April/May 2014.

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1.7 The report represents the findings of an appraisal of the site and its landscape and visual context. The purpose of the study is to assess the landscape and visual characteristics and potential suitability of the proposed site to support residential development. This appraisal pays particular regard to the relationship of the site to its context with Llanharry, as well as to the wider landscape and potential effects upon landscape character and visual amenity. The assessment is based the access and land use parameter plan available at the time of writing.

1.8 The report aims to present concise assessment conclusions, without each stage of the methodology assessment being exhaustively described, focusing reporting on the key issues and assessment conclusions. The assessment methodology is contained within Appendix A.

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2.0 THE SITE 2.1 The proposed site is located on the eastern extents of the settlement of Llanharry and comprises of an L shaped single field on the edge of a pre-existing residential estate of modern development just south of Llanharry Road (See Figure 01). The site is generally gently southward sloping, towards the lowest point which meets the motorway embankment and has an AOD height range of between 55-62m. A small rise occurs to the south east corner. The point of access in to the site is via a farm access gate on Stryd Silurian. The site is currently used for grazing and includes stock proof fencing around much of the perimeter. There is evidence of fly tipping in the north east corner.

2.2 The M4 corridor forms the southern boundary separated by a steep vegetated embankment of broadleaved woodland. The M4 whilst sufficiently screened from the proposed development site constitutes a significantly dominant landscape feature and has a significant aural presence. Beyond the M4 to the south, land use is typically agricultural/pastoral but also includes extraction at Forest Wood Quarry, approximately 400m south east of the proposal site. To the east the site is bounded by Strawberry Lane which provides access over the M4 and connecting Llanharry with lands to the south. Strawberry Lane also makes up a section of the Valeways Heritage Millennium Long Distance Trail. Beyond Strawberry Lane, land use includes agricultural/pastoral fields, which separate Llanharry with the smaller settlement of but interspersed with a small number of residential properties and commercial units. To the north the site is bounded by Stryd Silurian and beyond is further properties set within the estate and south of Llanharry Road. North of Llanharry Road land use is agricultural/pastoral but includes the site of the former Llanharry Iron Works which closed in 1976, and now set within a wooded landscape at a distance of 500m. Three properties are located immediately adjacent to the site in the north east corner separated by typical garden timber boundary fencing one of which is a recently constructed large scale property which is a key visual marker in the landscape. To the south west corner the site is bounded by an area of dense scrub and to the north west corner the curtilage of a detached house which is currently under construction. Beyond are further residential properties, the site of a former quarry works and the village core, all of which are located on land which rises to the west. Further properties are currently being constructed within the estate west of the proposal site on the site of the former quarry. Existing properties within the immediate vicinity of the site include both east west and north south orientation dwellings.

2.3 The site falls within land designated by Rhondda Cynon Taf as Green Wedge land between Llanharry, to the north west and to the north east, although markedly different in character to the

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open landscape associated with this designation. The site is more enclosed and closely associated to the existing built form that surrounds the site.

2.4 The Llanharry Surrounds Special Landscape Area as designated within the Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Development Plan is located immediately adjacent to the site to the east. It is understood that the LDP Inspector specifically excluded the site from the SLA. The site is the only area of land surrounding Llanharry that does not fall within land classified as SLA. Talygarn Special Landscape Area is located immediately south of the site, south of the M4 corridor.

3.0 THE WIDER LANDSCAPE AND STUDY AREA 3.1 For the assessment of individual effects on landscape character and visual amenity, the study area boundary extends from the centre of the site to a radius of 3km (see Figure 01) and partially includes lands within the unitary authorities of both Rhondda Cynon Taf and the Vale of Glamorgan. The proposal site falls wholly within the authority boundary of Rhondda Cynon Taf and is located adjacent to the county boundary to the south of the borough.

Overview 3.2 The wider landscape consists of a diverse land use mix of key settlement, commercial development and industry, road and rail transportation routes, extraction, sites of historic interest, forestry and

agricultural/pastoral land. Field sizes include both irregular ancient field enclosures and larger rectilinear 18th

and 19th century enclosure. There is increased urban development to the north east of the study area which includes both residential development and significant areas of commercial development and industry around the intersection between the A473 and A4119 at Pontyclun and . Further west land use is typically pastoral, less populated and interspersed only with individual properties and small settlement. To the south of the study area land use is also principally pastoral/agricultural, with the key settlement being . The topography of the study area is gently undulating as it forms the transition from upland valley landscapes to the low lying Vale. The lower slopes of Mynydd Garthmaelwg ( Forest) constitute the highest point within the study area to the north. Llanharry’s historic role in iron extraction is evident in the form of the Llanharry Iron Mine, a culturally and historically significant site, which at one time was the only iron extraction mine in Wales. OS mapping shows further evidence of extraction both north and south of the settlement of Llanharry marking a number of disused tips though most appear to the north of the settlement. Extraction still occurs (Limestone) at Forest Wood Quarry, south west of the site at an approximate distance of 400m and beyond the M4 to the south. The quarry buildings are a prominent visual

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marker in the landscape. Apart from the various public rights of ways that are located throughout the study area including the forested walks through Coed Trecastell and Mynydd Garthmaelwg, recreational facilities are available at the Vale of Glamorgan Golf Club at Hensol Castle and the Llantrisant Golf Club at Talbot Green.

Settlement Pattern 3.3 As well as Llanharry, the other key settlements within the study area include Pontyclun, Hendy, Brynsadler and Talbot Green which are located to the north east of the study area and Brynsadler. These settlements in combination with Llantrisant (just outside the study area) form an almost continuous band of urban development, to the north east. To the north west is the smaller settlement of Dolau on the edge of the study area and the larger settlement of Llanharan just outside the study area. The settlements and industry to the north east increase the urban quality and character to this portion of the study area in direct contrast to the western and southern portions which lends themselves to a much more rural characterisation. The remaining settlement pattern consists of individual farmsteads or small hamlets which are evenly distributed through.

Transport Routes 3.4 Transport routes include the M4 corridor which cuts through the centre of the study area in an east west direction. Junction 34 of the M4 provides the connecting route into the settlement of Llanharry via Pontyclun. Two secondary A roads also transect the study area including the A4222 to the east which roughly transects the study area in a north east-south west direction, connecting Talbot Green and Pontyclun with in the south and the A473, an east west orientated transport route connecting the settlement of to the north east and Pencoed to the south west, both outside the study area. A network of secondary B roads and minor roads form the remainder of the transport network servicing the towns and settlements located in outlying areas north and south of the M4. Both secondary and minor roads provide access over the M4 from Pontyclun and Llanharry. A rail link also transects the site to the north of the study area providing a connecting link between the cities of Swansea and Cardiff.

Topography 3.5 The topography of the central and southern portions of the study area consists of a gently undulating low lying landscape with small areas of high ground occurring to an approximate height of no more than 130m AOD. To the north of the study area the landscape becomes more elevated around Mynydd Garthmaelwg, although only Mynydd Garthmaelwg’s lower slopes fall within the study area. Mynydd Garthmaelwg is part of a band of ridges that mark the transition into the upland valley landscapes.

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Hydrology 3.6 The hydrology of the study area includes a number of springs and small feeder streams and the brooks of Nant Felin-Fach and Nant Rhydalog and Nant Dyfrgi. The Ely River is located to the east of the study area meandering through the settlements of Talbot Green and Pontyclun. Larger water bodies exist at Hensol Castle and Talygarn in the form of lakes and reservoir.

Woodland Cover 3.7 Woodland cover includes both coniferous plantation and deciduous woodland, throughout the study area. The most significant area of plantation woodland is at Coed Trecastell. This open access woodland is located on the northern flanks of this locally prominent area of higher ground. Smaller pockets of plantation exist further north close to the Registered Park and Garden of Llanharan House and to the south west around Hensol Castle. Small pockets of deciduous woodland occur throughout, principally along the stream valleys with larger areas also occurring around Hensol Castle and Talygarn to the south east and Dolau to the north west.

Public Rights of Way 3.8 There is an extensive network of Public Rights of Way within the study area, transecting both open land, plantation and deciduous woodland and includes a number close to the proposed site.

4.0 LANDSCAPE POLICY AND DESIGNATIONS Policy 4.1 A review of relevant policy and statutory and non-statutory landscape planning policy designations has been carried out as part of this assessment. Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Development Plan 2006-2021 was adopted in March 2011 and sets out how the County Borough will be developed over 15 years.

4.2 Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council Local Development Plan (LDP) includes Core (CS) and Area Wide (AW) policies. The LDP also splits the county borough into two distinct areas (north and south) of which further specific policies relate, recognising the distinct qualities and different planning objectives between the two geographic areas:  Northern Strategy Area (NSA)  Southern Strategy Area (SSA)

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The proposal site falls within the Southern Strategy Area. Collectively the Core, Area Wide and Strategy Area policies form the basis for the determination of planning applications relating to the development and use of land and buildings.

4.3 A review of the Core, Area Wide and Southern Area Strategy policies within Rhondda Cynon Taf Local

Development Plan (LDP), as adopted 2nd March 2011 that are of relevance to landscape character and visual amenity are outlined below: Policy CS2: Development in the south states that in the Southern Strategy Area the emphasis will be on sustainable growth that benefits Rhondda Cynon Taf as a whole. This will be achieved by: 1. Promoting residential development with a sense of place which respects the character and context of the Principle Towns and Key Settlements and the Southern Strategy Area; 2. Protecting the culture and identity of communities by focusing development within refined settlement boundaries and promoting the reuse of under used and previously developed land and buildings; 3. Promoting large scale regeneration schemes in the Principle Town of and Key Settlement of ; 4. Realising the importance of the Principle Town of Llantrisant/Talbot Green as an area of social and economic growth; 5. Providing opportunities for significant inward investment, in sustainable locations, that will benefit the economy of Rhondda Cynon Taf and Capital Region; 6. Reducing daily out commuting by car and promoting sustainable forms of transport; 7. Protecting the cultural identity of the Strategy Area by protecting historic built heritage and the natural environment, and 8. Promoting and enhancing transport infrastructure services to support growth and investment.

Policy AW5: New Development supports development proposals where;- Amenity a) The scale, form and design of the development would have no unacceptable effect on the character and appearance of the site and the surrounding area; b) Where appropriate, existing site features of built and natural environment value would be retained; c) There would be no significant impact upon the amenities of neighbouring occupiers; d) The development would be compatible with other uses in the locality; e) The development would include the use of multi-functional buildings where appropriate;

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f) The development designs out the opportunity for crime and anti-social behaviour. Accessibility a) The development would be accessible to the local and wider by a range of sustainable modes of transport; b) The site layout and mix of uses maximises opportunities to reduce dependence on cars; c) The development would have safe access to the highway network and would not cause traffic congestion or exacerbate existing traffic congestion; d) Car parking would be provided in accordance with the Council’s Supplementary Planning Guidance on delivering Design and Placemaking: Access, Circulation and Parking Requirements.

Policy AW6: Design and Placemaking supports development proposals where:- 1. They are of a high standard of design, which reinforces attractive qualities and local distinctiveness and improves areas of poor design and layout; 2. They are appropriate to the local context in terms of siting, appearance, scale, height, massing, elevational treatment, and materials and detailing. 3. In the case of extensions to the buildings, they reflect, complement or enhance the form, siting, materials, details and character of the original buildings, its curtilage and the wider area; 4. In the case of proposals for new and replacement shop fronts and signage, they make a positive contribution to the streetscape; 5. In the public realm and key locations such as town centres, major routes, junctions and public space, the character and quality of the built form is to a high standard of design; 6. They include public art; 7. Landscaping and planting are integral to the scheme and enhance the site and the wider context; 8. They include an integrated mixture of uses appropriate to the scale of the development; 9. They include the efficient use of land, especially higher density residential development on sites in proximity to local amenities and public transport; 10. Open space is provided in accordance with the Fields in Trust Standards; 11. A high level of connectivity and accessibility to existing centres by a wide range of modes of sustainable transport; 12. Schemes incorporate a flexibility in design to allow changes in use of buildings and spaces as requirements and circumstances change; 13. The development reflects and enhances the cultural heritage of Rhondda Cynon Taff; 14. The design protects and enhances the landscape and biodiversity;

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15. The development promotes energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy; and 16. The development promotes good water management including rainwater storage Sustainable urban drainage, porous paving etc.

Policy AW7: Protection and Enhancement of the Built Environment states that “development proposals which impact upon sites of architectural and/or historical merit and sites of archaeological importance will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the proposal would preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the site. Development proposals which affect areas of public open space, allotments, public rights of way, bridleways and cycle tracks will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that:- 1. There is a surplus of such facilities in the locality, or; 2. The loss can be replaced with an equivalent or greater provision in the immediate locality; or 3. The development enhances the existing facility

Policy AW8: Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Environment states that Rhondda Cynon Taf’s distinctive natural heritage will be preserved and enhanced by protecting it from inappropriate development. Development proposals will only be permitted where:- 1. They would not cause harm to the features of the Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) or Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIG) or other locally designated site, unless it can be demonstrated that:- a) The proposal is directly necessary for the positive management of the site; or b) The proposal would not unacceptably impact on the features of the site for which it has been designated; or c) The development could not reasonably be located elsewhere and the benefits of the proposed development clearly outweigh the nature conservation value of the site. 2. There would be no unacceptable impact upon features of importance to landscape and nature conservation, including ecological networks, the quality of natural resources such as air, water and soil, and the natural drainage of surface water. All development proposals, including those in built up areas, that may affect protected and priority species will be required to demonstrate what measures are in proposed for the protection and management of the species and the mitigation and compensation of potential impacts. Development proposals must be accompanied by appropriate ecological surveys and appraisals as requested by the Council. Development proposals that contribute to the management or development of Ecological Networks will be supported.

Policy SSA 13: Housing Development within Settlement Boundaries Development will be permitted within the defined settlement boundaries where it can be demonstrated that;-

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1. The proposed development does not adversely effect the provision of open space; 2. The proposed development is accessible to local services by a range of modes of sustainable transport, on foot or by cycle; 3. The proposed development does not adversely effect the provision of car parking in the surrounding areas; 4. The site is not contaminated or subject to land instability or is capable of being inappropriately remediated.

Development proposals within the defined settlement boundaries will only be permitted where they will not prejudice the development of the Strategic Sites.

Designations 4.4 A review of the relevant key statutory and non-statutory landscape classifications has been carried out as part of the assessment. Landscape designations provide an indication to the value that national and local government, plus other agencies attach to various landscape types. Landscapes can be designated by statute, in order to conserve and enhance their natural beauty and are included in policies within Development Plans.

4.5 Within the study area there are a range of national, regional and local designations that are relevant to the landscape and visual character of this study area. These are described below and are illustrated in Figure 01.

Conservation Areas  Llanharry Conservation Area – Located to the north west of the settlement and approximately 1.5km north west of the site.  Talygarn House – Located to the south west of the site at an approximate distance of 730m.  Conservation Area – Located to the east of the study area at an approximate distance of 3km

Green Wedge 4.6 The site falls within land classified as Green Wedge which comprises land between Llanharry, Llanharan and Pontyclun. The green wedge is expansive in area, extending northwards from the M4, which marks its southern boundary, to the A473 and Dolau in the north and Pontyclun, Brynsadler and Talbot Green in the east. As defined under Policy SSA 22: Green Wedges “it is considered necessary to provide additional protection to areas of important and vulnerable open land by restricting development on the urban fringe and between settlements. In the Southern Strategy Area Green Wedges have been designated specifically to prevent the coalescence between and within settlements, protect vulnerable and undeveloped land and urban form”.

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Special Landscape Areas 4.7 As part of the LDP, Rhondda Cynon Taff commissioned a review of the Special Landscape Areas (SLA) within the borough (Proposals for Designation of Special Landscape Areas in Rhondda Cynon Taf: February 2008)

in response to new quality assurance and refinements to LANDMAP data.1 There are now 20 revised SLAs designated by the authority which are said to be those areas which it considers to be the most important areas of high quality landscape within the plan area.

4.8 As defined by Policy SSA23: Special Landscape Areas “in the Southern Strategy Area SLAs have been identified to protect the distinctive landscape of the area. Particular consideration has been given to the protection of the unspoilt low lying farmland, common land and gentle valley slopes which form a visual backdrop to the settlements of the area”. “In order to protect the visual qualities of each SLA, the development proposals within these areas will be required to conform to the highest possible design standards.”

4.9 The site does not fall within any land designated as Special Landscape Area. Of the 20 identified within the borough 5 lie entirely or partially within the 3km study area, which are listed and described within the review as follows:-

Llanharry Surrounds Special Landscape Area In the south west corner of RCT, bounded by the M4 and the edge of Llanharry to the south. This area stretches from Felindre in the west to development at Trecastell in the east. To the north there is Llanharan and the adjacent major development site on reclaimed land. The southern edge of Coed Trecastell forestry defines the north eastern Boundary. Primary Landscape Qualities/Features  Part of Border Vale, with rolling lowland farmland with irregular shaped fields, bounded by hedges.  Seen from the M4, it appears as pleasant small scale rural character despite growing number of large scale developments nearby.  Mainly improved grassland, but also containing mosaic of primary habitats – purple moorgrass, unimproved grassland, small areas of native broadleaf woodland, large mixed hedges with spindle and dogwood.  Includes the remains of the last iron ore mine in Wales at Llanharry, of geological, historic and cultural interest.  Ringwork and adjacent church at of historic interest.

1 Proposals for Designation of Special Landscape Areas in Rhondda Cynon Taf Bronwen Thomas February 2007

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Talygarn Special Landscape Area In the extreme south of RCT with the M4 to the north and the county boundary to the south. It stretches from near Junction 34 in the east to Forest Wood Quarry in the west. Primary Landscape Qualities/Features  Part of Border Vale, with lowland farmland with irregular shaped fields, bounded by hedges.  Seen from M4 as part of Vale of Glamorgan.  Generally south facing, falling away to small stream that forms county boundary.  Small areas of native broadleaf woodland, large mixed hedges with spindle and dogwood.  Southern part is significant fen, wet woodland and purple moorgrass habitats.  Talygarn mansion, now converted to housing, with its woodland and Parkland are central to the area.

Coed-y-Hendy and Mwyndy Special Landscape Area In the south of RCT, to both west and east of A4119 and south of A473 Talbot Green bypass. Bounded by and industry to west and recent development at Miskin to south west. Primary Landscape Qualities/Features.  Small –scale flat valley bottom, and north facing slopes of River Clun.  Areas of dry and wet woodland, including Coed-y-Hendy.  Immediately adjacent to areas of housing and busy roads, retail developments and industry.  The area forms an attractive setting for Pontyclun and Talbot Green.  Coed-y-Hendy is important part of views south from Llantrisant.  Includes cemetery and green- winged orchid habitat.  River adds biodiversity value, plus rhos pasture habitats on valley floor.

Mynydd Hugh & Llantrisant Forest Special Landscape Area On the western edge of RCT, north of Llanharan and the A473, extending eastwards to the lower slopes of the Ely valley between Talbot Green and Tonyrefail. The northern boundary is the edge of development land in the valley south of . Primary Landscape Qualities/Features  Prominent ridge of hills with extensive rounded tops, with forestry to the east, forming part of the east/west ridge that marks the border between the Vale and Valleys.  Series of small more enclosed valleys to the north and south.  Historic features of Beacons and ruined church on ridge top.

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 The wind farm is a prominent feature on the skyline feature from the M4, and the Vale of Glamorgan.  Ridgeway walk passes west/east through area.  There are extensive and varied views from the ridge, over the Vale of Glamorgan and Bristol Channel to the south and over the coalfield plateau to the north.  Llantrisant Forest of historic interest as first Forestry Commission forest in Wales with attractive age/species structure, popular for biking and walking.  Most of remainder of area is fields with hedges, with improved grassland on upper slopes and some rhos pasture on the northern slopes and valleys.  No roads through.  Primary habitats relating to un-improved marshy grassland and rhos pasture, mainly in northern slopes and basins.  Series of tips and reclaimed land to the southern small valleys, becoming wooded.  Llanharan House and grounds in the south are part of attractive lower slopes.

4.10 Vale of Glamorgan County Council commissioned a review of the Special Landscape Area designations within

their administrative area in 2007.2 Within the Vale of Glamorgan Deposit Local Development Plan 2011- 2026 as defined under Policy MG17 six SLA’s are recognised. These are areas considered to be important for their geological, natural, visual, historic or cultural significance. Of the SLA’s that have been designated by the Vale of Glamorgan two lay entirely or partially within the 3km study area.

Ely Valley & Ridge Slopes Special Landscape Area This SLA is defined as the Ely Valley and Ridge Slopes stretching from the M4 in the north to the A48 in the south, the western extents of Cardiff to the east and Welsh to the west. Primary Landscape Qualities/Features “The SLA is predominantly a lowland rolling landscape with the Ely River valley running through it from north to south-east. The majority of the lowland valley floor is flood plain, with a sense of openness that contrasts with the rising valley sides. A rectilinear pattern of drainage ditches, creating much improved pasture runs into the . Towards the east, enclosing the Ely floodplain, the landscape has an intact pastoral field pattern and traditional settlement pattern. Hillsides contain headwaters that feed the River Ely, and the slopes support improved grassland, arable and some neutral grassland. There are areas of severely fragmented woodland. The M4 and A4232 are significant detractors but character is generally consistent with few areas affected by urban fringe and industry.

2 Review of Special Landscape Areas Designation Within the Vale of Glamorgan TACP Consultants July 2007

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Pylons in Ely Valley North detract from otherwise attractive views in and out of this area. Inappropriate development of farms into dwellings and poor land management are threatening the character integrity here, and drainage and agricultural improvement threatens habitats. To the north-west, the landscape is one of lowland valleys and hills, forming the upper reaches of various tributaries that flow into the Thaw and Ely valleys. It is a well maintained landscape with a tranquil feeling. With strong hedgerow and woodland cover, it has high scenic value, but low habitat value. The southern boundary includes a ridge crest, prominent in the landscape and providing views across the Vale. The A48 bisects this ridge and linear settlements dominate. The landscape includes semi-natural broadleaf woodland, improved grassland, arable and amenity grassland. The southwest corner is more intensively farmed, with inappropriate grazing, chemical improvement, drainage, and infrastructure development all creating pressure on habits. The boundary has been extended to the west to include Hensol Forest. The forest is largely planted coniferous, with some semi-natural woodland, and is on a hilltop so is visible from the surrounding landscape. Confined to watercourses and steep slopes, it creates a landscape of uniform diversity with a sheltering, tranquil and safe feeling. Hensol Lake has a secluded and distinct sense of place. The area is popular with visitors for recreation and the infrastructure is showing signs of wear. Hensol Castle is a substantial mock-gothic building and there are plans for the rehabilitation of the castle and its grounds as a conference facility, giving it a viable future and hopefully matching the careful management evident in the Vale Hotel, Golf and Spa Resort under the same ownership.”

Upper and Lower Thaw Valley Special Landscape Area This SLA is defined as the Upper and Lower Thaw Valley stretching from the M4 in the north to in the south, to the east and to the west, excluding the town of Cowbridge. Primary Landscape Qualities/Features “The SLA is dissected by the Thaw River valley. To the north, the area is sparsely settled with small villages and several farms. The generally open landscape has intervisibility and overlooks Bridgend, bordering the M4 and colouring the perception of the area. Mynydd Maendy wind farm to the north also has a visual impact on the sense of place. There are a number of pleasant views to well-managed fields and wooded areas, but these are affected in places by gappy hedgerows and housing development. Trees and hedgerows are declining in the area but introducing blocks of broadleaf woodland would help integrate settlement, whilst in the future development should be restricted in widely visible areas. The dramatic valley form has distinctive steep wooded slopes and a strong sense of place and is relatively uncommon. It is enclosed by a plateau landscape and has a strong relationship to Cowbridge. The SLA boundary

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excludes Cowbridge, the suburbs of which are eroding the rural character. The town centre areas of historic and aesthetic value are protected by Conservation Area status. The valley to the south is a confined, sinuous lowland valley with steep wooded sides and hedgerowed field valley floor with streams and wet ditches contributing to biodiversity. The strong valley, semi-natural and planted broadleaf woodland, and juxtaposition with valley settlements is very attractive and one of the best examples of this landscape in the Vale. Woodland is fragmented in places and linkages should be created by pursuing the Forestry Commission’s Woodland Grant Scheme and Native Woodland Plans. Elsewhere the landscape is rolling with some views out to the coast.”

Registered Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest 4.11 The register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales has been established by CADW/ICOMOS UK to identify those sites that can be considered of importance within Wales based upon a clear set of criteria. There are a total of three Registered Parks and Gardens within the study area and their locations are shown on Figure 01.  Talygarn: Grade II* located 750m to the south east (Rhondda Cynon Taf). Not open to the public.  Llanharan House: Grade II* located 2.7km to the north west (Rhondda Cynon Taf). Not open to the public.  Hensol Castle: Grade I and Grade II listings located 2.4km to the south east (Vale of Glamorgan). Not open to the public.

Scheduled Ancient Monuments 4.12 Cadw compiles a Schedule of Ancient Monuments in Wales, which lists monuments of national importance, covering a range of archaeological sites as illustrated in Figure 01. There are five Scheduled Ancient Monuments within the study area, the closest being the remains of a ruined chapel within the ground of St Anne’s Church, Talygarn located 600m to the south west.

National Trails/Long Distance Routes 4.13 The Valeways Heritage Millennium Trail is located immediately adjacent to the site on Strawberry Lane connecting Llanharry with lands within the Vale. Whilst this 14 mile long distance circular route principally runs through the Vale of Glamorgan it does briefly enter Rhondda Cynon Taf County boundary at the eastern extents of Llanharry.

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5.0 EXISTING LANDSCAPE CHARACTER 5.1 In Wales an established and acknowledged framework of landscape classification and landscape character is provided by Natural Resources Wales LANDMAP landscape assessment programme. Quality assured LANDMAP GIS data is provided within a series of Aspect Area maps (covering the landscape aspects of Cultural, Geological, Historic, Landscape Habitats and Visual and Sensory) The main framework for landscape character is provided by the Visual and Sensory Aspect Layer of mapping, although other aspects layers of mapping and database information will inform the assessment of character and landscape sensitivity to a greater of lesser degree, depending on the specific study area.

5.2 Analysis included detailed examination of available LANDMAP data to Level 3 classification, involving evaluation for all five Aspect Layers.

5.3 The site falls wholly within the Visual and Sensory Aspect Area Llanharry (CynonVS198), classified as Development/Built Land/Village and has an overall evaluation of Low. This aspect area is described as follows:- “Village area in lowland area of mainly housing. Glimpsed views northerly to uplands. Located very close to the M4 (north of the road.) Wind farm located to the north. Traffic noise from the M4 is likely to be constant detracting sensory feature throughout the village, particularly on those areas on top of the M4 embankment.”

5.4 The site is located within the LANDMAP Cultural Landscapes Aspect Area Designated Landscape Areas CynonCL056, classified as Associations/Notional Expressions/Institutions/Other Institutions and has an overall evaluation of High and is described as follows:- “Large expanses of (mostly) upland and moorland landscape are present throughout the 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 Special Landscape Areas, Sites of Interest for Nature Conservation or as part of the Coalfield

plateaux. Such designations are a reflection of the 20th/21st century perceptions of the value of protecting both natural habitats and of rural areas of lesser importance though possessing much aesthetic and sensory value. They contain variously historic and contemporary evidence of human occupation and exploitation in the form of prehistoric monuments, redundant industrial workings and transport systems, and of forestry. As such they are a commodity for leisure enjoyment as well as providing very extensive “green lungs” to supplement those identified in urban landscapes that they surround.”

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5.5 The site is located within the LANDMAP Historic Aspect Area Llanharri and Meisgyn (CynonHL295), classified as Rural Environment/Agricultural/Regular Fieldscapes and has an overall evaluation as Outstanding and is described as follows:- “This aspect represents an extensive and rural irregular fieldscape with intermittent small settlements distributed throughout. Bounded by the Unitary Authority boundary to the south and west, the aspect stretches from Pencoed, to the west, to Coedcaerau-bach (CynonHL187) in the east. The aspect is limited to the north by Mynydd Hywel Deio (Cynon HL187) and Llanharan (CynonHL762), the Cwm Ely settlement corridor (CynonHL785) and Garthfawr (CynonHL187). The aspect area exhibits an extensive history of occupation from the time of the first farmers through into the modern period. The Neolithic is represented by the polished greenstone axe found at Talygarn. Bronze Age activity is even more prolific with multiple examples of funerary burial mounds, and a few bronze axes, broadly distributed across the aspect area. Occupation during the Iron Age is possibly represented by Caergwanaf-isaf- enclosure. The Roman presence is strong within the aspect, recently a previously unknown timber fort and annex was discovered during a geophysical survey of Caergwanafuchaf, to the north of the Iron Age enclosure. Local tradition holds that Llechau was an area of Roman iron workings. Although shards of Roman pot have been found in the general vicinity, the area is now modern opencast with no evidence of antiquity. More conclusive proof of Roman industrial workings has materialised from fields immediately to the east of Caergwanafuchaf, identified from a magnetic gradiometer survey, revealing a slag dump of around 10,000 tonnes, an incredibly significant discovery for this area. Settlement continued into the Medieval period with many high status dwellings and ecclesiastical centres. The church of St Illtyd, Llanharri is the first mentioned in 1173 as a dependency of Ystradowen, in the possession of Tewksbury Abbey. It was later rebuilt in 1868 by David Vaughn.”

5.6 The site is located within the LANDMAP Geological Landscape Aspect Area Llanharry-Pontyclun (CynonGL049), classified as Undulating Lowland Hill Terrain and has an overall value of Outstanding and is described as follows:- “Mosaic of settlement and rural landscapes with nationally important site for Lower Carboniferous stratigraphy (Brofiscin Quarry SSSI) and six RIGS sites including for minerology).

The site is located within the LANDMAP Landscape Habits Aspect Area CynonLH101, classified as Improved Grassland with an overall value of Moderate and is described as follows:- “Improved grassland of low ecological value, there are however areas of broadleaved woodland, marshy grassland and hedgerows that give the area some value”

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Table 1: Summary of LANDMAP (Level 3) Data Aspect Unique ID Aspect Area Name Overall Evaluation Layer Visual and CynonVS198 Village Low Sensory

Cultural CynonCL056 Designated Landscape Areas High Landscapes Historic CynonHL295 Llanharri and Meisgyn Outstanding Landscapes Geological CynonGL049 Llanharry and Pontyclun Outstanding Landscapes Landscape CynonLH101 None Moderate Habitats

Identification of Landscape Character Areas 5.7 The boundaries to Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) are identified through physical features that may include interactions between different elements such as geology, soils, vegetation and current human influences, plus non-physical features such as historical and cultural associations and references. Information contained within NRW LANDMAP 2011 data for all 5 Aspect Layers (Cultural, Geological, Historic Landscapes, Landscape Habitats and Visual and Sensory) provides the basis for defining Landscape Character Areas to aid the assessment. Data within the five Aspect Layers is combined with field work assessment to

define Landscape Character Areas, in accordance with LANDMAP Information Guidance Note 33. The indicative methodology set out in Guidance Note 3 establishes an approach to refining an informed list of Aspect Areas to be analysed in detail in baseline assessment.

5.8 For the purposes of this assessment, a 3km radius geographic study area has been defined for all five Aspect Layers. The first stage of the assessment is to map all aspect areas within the study area boundary.

5.9 Aspect Areas with theoretical visibility of the proposed development are assessed further using current LANDMAP evaluation data to determine their sensitivity to potential effects. Aspect Areas attributed lower

3 Natural Resources Wales LANDMAP Guidance Note 3 Final Version May 2013

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evaluation classifications are eliminated from further analysis, retaining those Aspect Areas with higher evaluations for detailed assessment. Aspect Areas that are immediately adjacent to and contained within the proposed site boundary are most likely to undergo significant change as a result of the proposed development. Therefore these aspect areas are included within the assessment irrespective of their evaluation. It should be noted that Geological Landscape and Landscape Habitats Aspect Areas beyond the site boundary and the immediate adjacent areas are excluded from further consideration. This is accordance with LANDMAP Information Guidance Note 3.

5.10 Following this filtering, those Aspect Areas identified for detailed assessment are overlayed and combined to create LCAs. The process of combining Aspect Areas involves the amalgamation and division of Aspect Areas to create distinct LCA boundaries, which reflect the interaction between the five LANDMAP Aspect Layers. In combining Aspect Areas, Visual and Sensory Aspect Area boundaries are regarded as the starting point for defining the LCAs, further refined by the four Aspect Layers as appropriate. Precedence is given to those Aspect Layers/Areas with outstanding evaluations.

5.11 6 LCAs within the study area have been identified using this method (See Figure 13). The proposed development is located with LCA B: Llanharry Village. Existing baseline conditions within the 6 LCAs identified are described below and Table 7 summaries their judged value.

Table 1: LCA A: Hendre/Ystradown Mosaic Lowland LCA A: Hendre/Ystradowen Mosaic Lowland Description: A large and expansive LCA of mainly pastoral fields and a gently undulating landscape. Field enclosures are typically formed by hedgerows containing mature trees. Settlement includes Ystradowen to the south along with scattered farmsteads and individual residential dwellings. The LCA contains Forest Wood Quarry of which its works buildings are a key visual landscape feature. Contains the open access plantation at Coed Trecastell and swathe of woodland around the former Llanharry mine. Contains Special landscape Area designation. Visual and This LCA comprises parts of the Hendre, Ystradowen and Northern Vale Lias Slopes Sensory Aspect Areas. The LCA is a large expansive area of mosaic lowland of medium scale. An open and settled landscape defined by small/medium sized fields defined by hedgerows with scattered blocks of broadleaved and mixed woodland and lowland valleys and hills. Tranquillity is affected by the M4 in some parts. An attractive rural landscape. Some detracting features occur such as pylons and sharply defined urban edges. Scenic quality,

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often with a backdrop of wooded ridgelines. The landscape is not considered rare. Sense of place is considered moderate with moderate scenic quality. Moderate overall evaluation. Historic This linear LCA comprises part of the Llanharri and Meisgyn Aspect Area. An extensive Landscape rural preserved irregular fieldscape with intermittent small settlement exhibiting an extensive history of occupation. An outstanding overall evaluation given that it represents a rich multi-period landscape, with archaeological evidence of continuous human activity including the substantial Romano-British ironworking centre at Caergwanaf –uchaf. The LCA also contains a small part of and Pennyllyn Moors Aspect Area. A considerable tract of well-preserved elevated reclaimed wetland dissected by ditches and reens with overall high value. Cultural This LCA comprises part of the Mynydd Maendy Windfarm Aspect Area, Windfarm Landscape Aspect Area and Vale of Glamorgan Rural Landscape Aspect Area Designated Landscape Areas Aspect Area, the M4 corridor Aspect Area and Rural Village Conservation Area Aspect Area all of which have been assessed as being of high or outstanding value. Together forming a diverse cultural landscape of evolved agriculture, settlement and power generation and distribution. Geological This LCA forms part of the Geological Aspect Area Llanharri-Pontyclun. A lowland Landscape undulating hill terrain of Devonian Carboniferous sandstone and limestone and includes active upland river/stream systems. A nationally important site for Lower Carboniferous stratigraphy (Brofiscin Quarry SSSI) and six RIGS sites are within the wider Aspect Area. This is a high value landscape with an overall evaluation of outstanding. It also contains the Morfa Ystradowen and Aspect Areas both of which have high evaluation Landscape Much of this LCA contains landscape habitats of moderate value however a small area is Habitats considered high (CynonLH093) defined by significant amounts of a valuable much declined priority habitat. (Purple moor grass dominated marshy grassland). Value: High

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Table 2: LCA B: Llanharry Village LCA B: Llanharry Village Description: A medium scale and enclosed landscape with high numbers of sensitive receptors although limited availability of views. This LCA has substantial human interaction resulting in a lack of remoteness of tranquillity. Part of the village is designated as a Conservation Area.

Visual and This LCA and Aspect Area: Llanharry is a gently rolling/undulating lowland area with Sensory glimpsed views north to uplands and limited views of adjacent LCAs. This LCA is a medium scale and enclosed landscape of mainly housing adjacent to the Llanharry Surrounds Special Landscape Area, although with little visual relationship. Traffic noise from the M4 is a constant detracting sensory feature. It is classified as having low scenic quality and has an overall evaluation of low.

Historic This LCA forms part of the Historic Landscape Aspect Area Llanharri and Meisgyn, an Landscape extensive intact rural irregular fieldscape with intermittent small settlement. It demonstrates an extensive history of occupation from the prehistoric to present. This multi period landscape with a wealth of archaeological evidence has an overall evaluation of outstanding. Cultural This LCA forms part of the Cultural Landscape Aspect Area Llanharan and Llanharri. A Landscape mix of rural and industrial/urban landscapes influenced by mining and extraction with a strong sense of place and cultural identity including the medieval villages of Llanharan and Llanharri. Contains the once-important landed estates of Llanelay and Llanharan House whose importance declined as mining activity increased. The aspect area is said to be vulnerable to open cast mining and modern housing development. This aspect area is given an overall classification of low as little distinctiveness is left. Geological This LCA forms part of the Geological Aspect Area Llanharri-Pontyclun. A lowland Landscape undulating hill terrain of Devonian Carboniferous sandstone and limestone and includes active upland river/stream systems. A nationally important site for Lower Carboniferous stratigraphy (Brofiscin Quarry SSSI) and six RIGS sites are within the wider Aspect Area. This is a high value landscape with an overall evaluation of outstanding. Landscape This LCA forms part of the wider Landscape Habitats Aspect Area Cynon LH101. A Habitats predominantly improved grassland area with some semi-natural broadleaved woodland and marshy grassland. An overall evaluation of moderate is given as there are some valuable habitats that support some key species.

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Value: Low /Medium

Table 3: LCA C: Mynydd Gaer Mynydd Garthmaelwg LCA C: Mynydd Gaer Mynydd Garthmaelwg Description: Mynydd Gaer and Mynydd Garthmaelwg form a prominent ridgeline to the north of the study area. Defined by steep mountain slopes and a mixed landscape of mosaic pastoral fields of open aspect and enclosed plantation. Minimal settlement. A strong sense of place which is tranquil with far reaching views south across the Vale. Visual and Mynydd Gaer Aspect area is attributed outstanding overall value by virtue of high scenic Sensory quality and strong sense of place. A wind farm is present which is a vertical dominant element and key visual marker in the landscape. Some visual detractors exist in the form of pylons, traffic noise and movement from A473. Historic This LCA comprises a small part of the extensive Mynyddau Hugh and Maendy Aspect Landscape Area. A complex area of irregular and regular fieldscapes. The aspect area exhibits an extensive settlement history. The Aspect Area has an overall evaluation of outstanding representing an exceptionally rich, diverse multi-period upland landscape with continuous evidence of human activity from prehistory to the present day. Cultural This LCA forms part of the Designated Landscape Aspect Area. A large expanse of Landscape (mostly) upland and moorland landscape. Designations exist such as SSSI and Special Landscape Areas. The area includes various monuments, redundant industrial workings, transport systems and forestry which are a commodity for leisure enjoyment as well as providing “green lungs” to immediate urban landscapes. Overall evaluation of high. Geological N/A* Landscape Landscape N/A* Habitats Value: High

5.12 *N/A denotes that no Aspect Areas are considered to be relevant for further analysis as a result of filtering in accordance with paragraphs 5.6-5.10.

Table 4: LCA D: M4 Corridor

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LCA D: M4 Corridor Description:

Visual and This LCA and Aspect Area is a medium scale and enclosed landscape. The motorway is 3- Sensory 3 lane with a series of embankments and cuttings with dense structure planting. Over bridges punctuate the dominant linearity of the motorway as it cuts through the wider landscape. There are glimpsed attractive views out to higher ground and some detractive views both in and out. It has a distinctive motorway character but with no immediate sense of place to a specific location. Considered low scenic quality and low overall evaluation. Historic This linear LCA comprises part of the Llanharri and Meisgyn Aspect Area. An extensive Landscapes rural preserved irregular fieldscape with intermittent small settlement exhibiting an extensive history of occupation. An outstanding overall evaluation given that it represents a rich multi-period landscape, with archaeological evidence of continuous human activity including the substantial Romano-British ironworking centre at Caergwanaf –uchaf. Cultural This linear LCA forms part of the Aspect Area. Recorded as having a very Landscapes strong sense of place and local distinctiveness. A widely recognised industrial, commercial,

economic and tourist route. An outstanding overall evaluation as a 20th/21st century manifestation and response to the need for rapid, efficient transport with social and economic benefits. Geological Forming part of the Llanharry-Pontyclun Aspect Area. An undulating lowland hill terrain. Landscapes Mosaic of settlements and rural landscapes with nationally important sites for Lower Carboniferous stratigraphy (Brofiscin Quarry SSSI) and six RIGS sites for mineralogy. An outstanding overall evaluation. Landscape N/A* Habitats Value: Low

5.13 N/A* denotes that no Aspect Areas are considered to be relevant for further analysis, as a result of filtering in accordance with paragraphs 5.6-5.10.

Table 5: LCA E: Historic Landscapes

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LCA E: Historic Landscapes Description: This LCA comprises of the 3 separate historic landscapes parks and gardens of Llanharan House, Talygarn and Hensol Castle. Visual and Sensory Hensol Castle N/A* Talygarn N/A* Part of the landscape of Llanharan House falls within the Mynydd Gaer Aspect Area with an overall evaluation of outstanding. Historic Landscapes This LCA and Nucleated Settlement Aspect Area of Hensol Castle comprise a substantial mock gothic stone mansion in rolling countryside. Set within an important mid-eighteenth century landscape park including large lake, serpentine

pond and folly. Parts of site include a private hospital and complex of 20th century housing. High overall evaluation. This LCA and Designed Aspect area of Talygarn comprises a substantial stone mansion situated on elevated ground. Built in Tudor Gothic style, this Victorian mansion and associated contemporary landscape gardens and woodland grounds. The visual coherence of the house and its surrounding designed landscape has remained largely intact. Now converted to luxury apartments. Outstanding overall evaluation.

The Designed Aspect Area of Llanharan House comprises of a large classical 18th century gentry house with many well preserved external and internal features set within a well preserved landscape park. Much of its layout and planting survives intact. Outstanding overall evaluation. Cultural Landscapes Hensol Castle and its designed landscape is considered an imaginative re-use of an estate landscape to meet the contemporary leisure and business demands with an overall evaluation of high. Talygarn falls within the Designated Landscape Areas Aspect Area which includes large expanses of mostly upland moorland landscapes. Designations exist such as SSSI and Special Landscape Areas. The area includes various monuments, redundant industrial workings, transport systems and forestry which are a commodity for leisure enjoyment as well as providing “green lungs” to immediate urban landscapes. Overall evaluation of high. Llanharan House falls within the Mynydd Maendy Windfarm Aspect Area. The windfarm represents a visual addition to the topography of the Mynydd Maendy

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ridge and its presence changes the cultural essence of the immediate surroundings. Overall evaluation is assessed as high. Geological Landscapes Hensol Castle forms part of the wider Pendoylan Aspect Area. A relatively high and very irregular terrain, even hummocky in places. The area includes potentially regionally important sites. Overall evaluation is assessed as high. Talygarn falls within the wider Llanharri –Pontyclun Aspect Area with an overall evaluation of outstanding. A mosaic of settlements and rural landscapes with nationally important sites for Lower Carboniferous stratigraphy (Brofiscin Quarry SSSI and six RIGS sites including for mineralogy)

Landscape Habitats Hensol Castle N/A* Talygarn N/A* Llanharan House N/A* Value: High

5.14 *N/A denotes that no Aspect Areas are considered to be relevant for further analysis, as a result of filtering in accordance with paragraphs 5.6-5.10.

Table 6: LCA F: Urban Pontyclun LCA F: Urban Pontyclun Description: This LCA comprises of the urban areas of Pontyclun (including Hendy) and forms the commercial and urban areas to the north east. Visual and Sensory N/A* Historic Landscapes N/A* Cultural Landscapes High Geological Landscapes N/A* Landscape Habitats N/A* Value: Low-Medium

5.15 *N/A denotes that no Aspect Areas are considered to be relevant for further analysis, as a result of filtering in accordance with paragraphs 5.6-5.10.

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Table 7: Summary of Landscape Character Area Values Landscape Character Area Landscape Value LCA A Hendre/Ystradown Mosaic Lowland High LCA B Llanharry Village Low Medium LCA C Mynydd Gaer Mynydd Garthmaelwg High LCA D M4 Corridor Low LCA E Historic Landscapes High LCA F Urban Pontyclun Low Medium

6.0 ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS OF LANDSCAPE CHARACTER Landscape Character Area A: Hendre/Ystradowen Mosaic Lowland Susceptibility of Landscape Receptors to Change: Whilst this expansive LCA is typically rural with some far reaching and pleasant views, and includes Special Landscape Areas, human influence is strong resulting in a diverse landscape including power distribution, extraction and settlement which all contribute to reduce susceptibility. On balance it is considered that there is a medium susceptibility of landscape receptors to change.

Landscape Sensitivity: Landscape value is considered to be high and susceptibility of landscape receptors to change is considered medium. In this instance landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium.

Magnitude of Landscape Effect: Magnitude of effect across this LCA is likely to be low. The gently undulating topography and visual enclosure afforded by the intervening and local vegetation results in limited land having a visual relationship to the site. The defining elements that make up this LCA which includes both open rolling landscapes with detracting man-made features would remain. Areas within this LCA where visibility is available is limited and locations few.

Significance of Landscape Effect: The landscape is considered medium sensitivity and the magnitude of effect low. The presence of the development within the landscape setting of the LCA will have little effects on the essential landscape features that make up this diverse landscape as described above. The lack of visibility of the site from within much of this LCA is beneficial. Effects are considered minor and not significant.

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Landscape Character Area B: Llanharry Village Susceptibility of Landscape Receptors to Change: This is a small scale urban landscape character area.

Townscape condition is mixed including a Conservation Area and large areas of modern 20th century development. Available views are limited as a result of the built form and views of the site are limited from much of the remaining LCA and visual and sensory value is low. The presence of existing urban development defines this LCA. Susceptibility to landscape change is therefore assessed as low.

Landscape Sensitivity: Landscape value is considered low medium and the susceptibility to change of landscape receptors is low. As such landscape sensitivity is considered low.

Magnitude of Landscape Effect: The proposal site lies entirely within this LCA, where direct effects on landscape character will occur. The addition of the development within this LCA however would result in an alteration to landscape character only in some parts and is considered fairly localised to the eastern extents. The nature of the existing built form within the remainder of the LCA aids to screen and obscure views. Overall it is considered that there would be a medium magnitude of effects on this landscape character area.

Significance of Landscape Effect: The landscape is considered to be of low sensitivity and the magnitude of effect medium. Given the restricted visibility of the site from much of the LCA, the integrity of the settlement would be maintained. On balance it is considered that the significance of landscape effect is minor and not significant.

Landscape Character Area C: Mynydd Gaer/Mynydd Garthmaelwg Susceptibility of Landscape Receptors to Change: This is a landscape of local significance, as a result of Special Landscape Area designation and recreational community value which generally afford long ranging views south across the Vale and towards the site although large areas of plantation within this LCA screen and obscure views out from some parts. Whilst open elevated views afford greater visibility of the site, these also result in wide, expansive views within which the proposed development has the potential to be absorbed without affecting overall character. This added to the distance of the site from the LCA and the pre-existing detracting elements such as the large number of pylons that transect the landscape in the view. On balance, susceptibility to change of landscape receptors is assessed as low.

Landscape Sensitivity: Landscape value is considered to be high and the susceptibility to change of landscape receptors is considered to be low. Therefore on balance landscape sensitivity is considered to be medium.

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Magnitude of Landscape Effect: This landscape area forms the prominent ridge to the north of the study area. Whilst the visual envelope shows that there will be some visibility of the site from this LCA, in reality given the distance and the screening effects of local vegetation and topography, any changes to the landscape are unlikely to alter the overall character of this LCA. The defining character of this landscape would remain intact and the magnitude of landscape effect low.

Significance of Landscape Effect: The landscape is considered to be of medium sensitivity and the magnitude of effect low. Given the distance of the site from this LCA, the development would be barely perceptible and therefore the significance of effects is considered minor and not significant.

Landscape Character Area D: M4 Corridor Susceptibility of Landscape Receptors to Change: The nature of the enclosed road corridor is such that there are limited available views to the surrounding landscape therefore limiting susceptibility to change. This is linear visually enclosed LCA which is noisy and busy and visually intrusive. The LCA is considered robust, with a very limited palette of landscape components. Susceptibility to change is therefore assessed as low.

Landscape Sensitivity: Landscape value is considered to be low and susceptibility of landscape receptors to change is low. Therefore on balance, landscape sensitivity is considered low.

Magnitude of Landscape Effect: Existing landscape elements, including vegetative enclosure, busyness, noise and visual intrusion both day and night are expected to remain prevalent. A limited geographic extent of the development is expected to be visible from this LCA. Therefore no fundamental change to landscape character is expected. Magnitude of effect is considered to be low.

Significance of Landscape Effect: The landscape is considered to be of low sensitivity and the magnitude of effect is considered low. The development can be integrated into the existing landscape without affecting the robust and visually dominant character of this LCA or loss of key underlying landscape attributes. As such, effects are considered to be minor and not significant.

Landscape Character Area E: Historic Landscapes Susceptibility of Landscape Receptors to Change: This is a LCA comprises of three separate and designated landscapes of national significance. Visual enclosure is typically high but all three are considered to have

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attributes which are unlikely to withstand change without causing a change to the overall character. Susceptibility is considered to be high.

Landscape Sensitivity: Landscape value is considered to be high and susceptibility of landscape receptors to change is high. Therefore, on balance, landscape sensitivity is considered to be high.

Magnitude of Landscape Effect: The presence of the development within the landscape context of this LCA is expected to be limited. Whilst the LCA comprises of three individual and separate designated landscapes, there is no inter-visibility with the site from all three locations, therefore effects are considered low-negligible.

Significance of Landscape Effect: The landscape is considered to be of high landscape susceptibility and the magnitude of effect low-negligible. As a result of the relationship between landscape sensitivity and magnitude of change, resultant significance of landscape effects is assessed as minor and not significant. Whilst this is a landscape of high sensitivity for the study area, the addition of the proposed development is unlikely to affect the generally enclosed nature of the three component parts which make up this LCA. As such, effects are considered to be minor and not significant.

Landscape Character Area F: Urban Pontyclun Susceptibility of Landscape Receptors to Change: This is small urban LCA containing a number of contiguous settlements, including large scale retail, business and light industrial development. Visual enclosure is typically high throughout the LCA as a result of the obscuring built forms. The defining landscape features are considered robust and tolerant of change. The presence of existing urban development defines this LCA. Susceptibility to landscape change is therefore assessed as low.

Landscape Sensitivity: Landscape value is considered to be low-medium and susceptibility of landscape receptors to change is considered low. Therefore, on balance, landscape sensitivity is considered to be low.

Magnitude of Landscape Effect: The presence of the development within the landscape context of this LCA is expected to be limited. Much of the LCA spans the north eastern portion of the study area at some distance from the site with a lack of available views. Therefore it is considered that the magnitude of effect on landscape character is low- negligible.

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Significance of Landscape Effect: The landscape is considered to be of low landscape sensitivity and the magnitude of effects low-negligible. The development would be integrated into the existing landscape context of this LCA with little, or no, effect on the existing landscape character. As such, landscape effects are considered to be minor and not significant.

Table 8: Summary of Effects on Landscape Character Receptor Landscape Magnitude of Effect on Significance of Effects on Landscape Sensitivity Landscape Character Character LCA A: Medium Low Minor Hendre/Ystradowen Not Significant Mosaic Lowland

LCA B: Llanharry Low Medium Minor Village Not Significant

LCA C: Mynydd Medium Low Minor Gaer Mynydd Not Significant Garthmaelwg

LCA D: M4 Low Low Minor Corridor Not Significant

LCA E: Historic High Low-negligible Minor Landscapes Not Significant

LCA F: Urban Low Low-negligible Minor Pontyclun Not Significant

7.0 VISUAL ASSESSMENT BASELINE 7.1 An assessment of the degree of visibility of the application site has been determined through Visual Envelope mapping as illustrated in Figure 02 and site assessment, which includes an assessment of views from and

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towards the site to establish the potential extent and nature of visibility of the proposed site. The purpose of the visual envelope is to establish the outer limit of the land that may be visually connected to the proposal.

7.2 The assessments were made at eye level from both broad receptor locations and within the site and study area. The visual assessment has taken into consideration the nature and scale of the proposed development.

7.3 From the north, the visibility of the site is generally limited to higher ground around Coed Trecastell and the lower un-forested slopes of Mynydd Garthmaelwg. The swathe of woodland that surrounds the former Llanharry Iron Mine which is a key local feature within the landscape provides a significant level of screening when looking towards the site from areas of lower elevation to the north. Where views are available of the site from higher ground, the development is set within a framework of existing built form and a number of detracting man-made features are included within this view such as a significant number of pylons, masts and scarred land.

7.4 The area of low lying land to the east results in limited opportunity for views into the proposal site. Views are short and limited to the immediate fields adjacent to the site. The intervening hedgerows and boundary vegetation along Strawberry Lane help screen and limit views into the site.

7.5 From the south, visibility of the site is largely restricted by the M4 which abuts the sites southern boundary. Site elevation is typically lower than the existing level of the road corridor apart from the small elevated section to the south east corner. Despite this, views into this portion of the site are only available from the motorway where gaps in the embankment hedgerow occur (also to the south east corner) and the extent of the gap is such that views would therefore be sequential and only a passing glimpse would be experienced by passing receptors. Seasonal vegetation variations are likely to apply and subsequently increase or decrease visibility at any given time along the length of the embankment. Views of the site are also available from the Strawberry Lane pedestrian flyover however these views are largely screened and filtered by the embankment vegetation however where the same gap occurs, visibility into the site increases.

7.6 From the west, visibility of the site is largely screened by the existing built form within the estate; however the subsequent rise in land to the west results in a likely increased availability of views from some parts of Llanharry with some properties potentially having views into the site particularly from second storey windows.

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8.0 VISUAL ASSESSMENT 8.1 The existing and predicted views from each viewpoint as a result of the proposed development are described and assessed within the paragraphs below. It should be noted that the viewpoints chosen aim to illustrate the presence of the development in the landscape rather than show the screening effects of buildings, landform and other landscape features. Unusually, there is limited land that is visually connected to the site within the wider study area. Viewpoints therefore may focus on where receptor sensitivity is greatest e.g. close to residential properties, public rights of way or recreational landscape facilities of value to the community or value due to designation but subsequently may show a lack of visibility. The selection of viewpoints by no means avoids the representation of visibility within the study area. Views shown are representative; they are not necessarily fully comprehensive. In each case, the scale and nature of development assessed has been based on current typical development within Llanharry in terms of building height and form.

8.2 The viewpoints selected are from all publicly accessible locations, however it should be noted that areas of potential visibility as indicated by the estimated visual envelope may be constrained, for example by buildings, trees and other local obstacles that can obscure clear views into the site and restrict panoramic views. Taking these factors into account, the study area was thoroughly explored to find the most suitable location for representative photographs. Following best practice guidance, viewpoint photography has been taken using a full format DSLR camera with a 50mm lens.

Significant Sites within the 3km Study Area and Scoped out of the Visual Assessment 8.3 None of the Registered Parks and Gardens within the study area has any inter-visibility with the site and are therefore scoped out of the visual assessment.

8.4 None of the Conservation Areas within the study area have any intervisibility with the site and are therefore scoped out of the visual assessment.

8.5 Table 9 below summarises the location of the selected viewpoints, whilst Figures 14- 17 illustrate the location of each viewpoint on the OS 1:25,000 map

Table 9 Location of Viewpoints No. Location Grid Reference Approximate distance E N from the site

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1 Strawberry Lane Flyover 302144 180372 40m

2 Minor Road nr Trecastell Farm 301748 181414 0.95km

3 Llanharry Road nr Torgelli Farm 300554 181170 1.53km

4 PRoW South of Coed Cae Farm 302155 183411 2.89km

8.6 Viewpoint 1 – Strawberry Lane Flyover (Valeways Heritage Millennium Trail) Figure 014 Approximate Distance to site: 40m Viewpoint 1 is located on the Strawberry Lane flyover. This footpath provides pedestrian only access over the M4 connecting Llanharry with properties to the south east around Talygarn. The footpath also makes up a section of the Valeways Heritage Millennium Trail long distance path. The motorway below is a significantly powerful visual and sensory element within the view. The motion and level of noise has a threatening sensory quality.

Value of Visual Receptors: This viewpoint is not within a Special Landscape Area and is located on the bridge over the motorway and is therefore not considered to be representative of any scenic quality or of particular view value.

Susceptibility of Change on Visual Receptors: Receptors include people undertaking recreation in the landscape, such as walkers on the long distance trail and the bridge connects two Special Landscape Areas. Susceptibility of visual receptors to change is therefore assessed as high.

Sensitivity of Visual Receptors: Walkers: Receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility to change. The viewpoint is not located within any locally designated landscape however the M4 is of cultural value. Sensitivity of visual receptors is assessed as medium.

Existing View: From this location looking north, the footpath falls from view as it descends towards Llanharry Road. Views are funnelled by the mature trees that are located on either side of the path where the flyover terminates. This mature vegetation restricts any views further north. Views east are short to medium range and are influenced largely by the direction of the motorway below and the embankment vegetation that

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funnels views along its course, however high ground is visible in the far distance. To the north east, the rooftops of properties within Brynsadler are visible spanning a small hill rise. To the south, views are funnelled by the vegetation at the end of the flyover and a small rise in land directly south restricts any views beyond. To the west, views are also typically short to medium range as the motorway approaches a hill brow and then disappears from view. Looking north westwards towards the site, the modern residential estate on the eastern extents of Llanharry can clearly be seen on rising land. The embankment vegetation screens views of the western portion of the site in the near view. The angle of view is such that the central portion of the site is clearly visible where gaps occur in the embankment vegetation. Stryd Silurian is also visible. The eastern portion of the site and the elevated south east corner are screened by the mature vegetation along the motorway embankment and to the south east corner.

Predicted View: It is predicted that the view will include some facades and roofscape within the central portion of the site on construction. Visible roofscapes are unlikely to rise above the existing rooflines within the estate. However with the introduction of the advanced planting scheme to the south east corner this visibility will significantly decrease as the vegetation reaches maturity. On maturity it is predicted that the visibility of properties within the central portion of the site will be wholly screened from this location. There may be some visibility of the roofscape of properties to the south east elevated corner however it is likely that this will extend to only one or two properties and the level of screening provided by the advanced planting on maturity will significantly screen and filter views.

Magnitude of Change: Additional built form where visible would be seen in context with the existing built form of Llanharry and would not be an incongruous addition to the overall view experience. However the close proximity to the site from the viewpoint results in the site being a noticeable new feature when walking along this stretch of footpath. There would be partial loss of existing landscape elements as the existing field would change to that of built form; however given the sites context within this already pre-existing view of residential development and the beneficial screening effects of the proposed advanced planting, it is considered that the magnitude of change from this location is no more than medium.

Visual Impact: Walkers using this footpath are considered to be of medium sensitivity and the magnitude of change is considered to be medium for the reasons set out above. Given the motorways significant dominance at this location, focus is drawn both east, west and below as the motion of the traffic defines the overall view experience and commands attention affecting both visual and aural senses. The addition of the development is unlikely to significantly alter this experience as the view is already detracted by this dominant

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element. Taking all these factors into account, it is considered that the visual impact for walkers on this footbridge is low and not significant.

8.7 Viewpoint 2 – Minor Road Nr Trecastell Farm Figure 015 Approximate distance to site: 0.95km Viewpoint 2 is located at the field gate on the minor road adjacent to Trecastell Farm, approximately 1km north of the proposed site. The viewpoint is close to a number of Public Rights of Way which transect the local area, principally continuing northwards through the plantation at Coed Trecastell. Trecastell Farm is a two storey south facing property which has open aspect views south towards the site adjacent to the viewpoint location.

Value of Visual Receptors: This viewpoint is located within the Llanharry Surrounds Special Landscape Area and has high cultural value and outstanding historic vale.

Susceptibility of Change on Visual Receptors: Whilst the susceptibility of change for drivers along this minor road would be considered low, residents with Trecastell Farm and users of the nearby footpaths are more susceptible to change as they have a permanent and consistent view towards the site or are using the landscape recreationally. Therefore susceptibility to landscape change is considered to be high.

Sensitivity of Visual Receptors: Walkers: Receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility to change. The viewpoint is located within a locally designated landscape. However existing visual elements within the view include the pre-existing built form of Llanharry and includes the existing properties that are located immediately to the north of the site. Forest Wood Quarry is also visible from this location and the landscape and horizon is scattered with a significant number pylons which are an additional detracting feature. On balance, sensitivity of visual receptors is considered to be medium.

Existing View: From this location, views east and west are typically short, screened by a combination of topography and roadside vegetation. Views north are also short extending only to the steep rise and wooded hillside of Coed Trecastell. Views south however are far reaching and extend out as far as the A48 at an approximate distance of 7km. The single transmission mast near St Hilary is visible directly south on the horizon which punctuates the skyline along with a significant number of pylons. Directly south, in the middle distance view, the works buildings of Forest Wood Quarry can be seen as is an adjacent area of scarred land.

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In the near view and looking towards the site, the land falls towards the former Llanharry Iron Mine which is now vegetated by an area of mature trees. The rooftops of the old works buildings can be seen just above the canopy. To the south west in the middle distance view, the western extents of Llanharry village is visible on a small rise, its northern fringes abutting an area of open fields. The visible properties are located below the horizon and appear to be of modern construction. To the south east a number of other properties are visible which make up the settlement of Brynsadler and include a small cluster of houses south of the M4. The M4 itself is barely visible, generally screened by a combination of embankment trees or topography; however the noise of the traffic is clearly audible in the distance. Beyond the vegetation of the former mine works and looking towards the site, the rooftops of the properties around Elms Farm and the recently constructed large property adjacent to site are visible and the elevated south east corner of the site can be seen. It is at this point that glimpses of the M4 are visible where gaps in the roadside hedge occur. Just beyond this portion of the site and to the south of the M4 are the properties at . Strawberry Lane can be seen just to the left of the application site. Whilst this view is principally a rural one, it has a significant number of detracting man-made elements within it such as the works buildings of Forest Wood Quarry with its associated landscape scarring and the significant number pylons and masts that scatter the landscape to the south.

Predicted View: From this location, visibility of the site extends to the elevated south east corner only. The remaining site extents are well screened by the vegetation of the former mine works. Visibility of the development is likely to extend to a handful of properties only and would include the rear and side facades and roofscapes.

Magnitude of Change: From this location looking south towards the site there is likely to be a minor change to the overall view due to a combination of distance and extent of visibility. The handful of proposed properties that would be visible from this location would be seen within an existing cluster of properties, principally those to the north west of the site and those properties south of the M4 at Tynewydd. Any additional built elements within the landscape would only take up a small portion of this wider view which already includes residential development and detracting man-made elements. The existing properties within Llanharry tend to draw the eye as do the far reaching views south. The scale of the wooded landscape around the former Llanharry Mine is such that any addition of built form would in no way alter the balance between the natural or man-made elements within the middle distance and central portion of the view. It is considered therefore that the magnitude of change from this location is low from this location.

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Visual Impact: Receptors from this viewpoint are considered to be of high sensitivity. The magnitude of change bought about by the proposed development is assessed as low for the reasons set out above. Despite receptor sensitivity being high, there is a limited view of the site from this location for both walkers and drivers and therefore is it considered that the visual impact from this location is low and not significant.

8.8 Viewpoint 3 – Llanharry Road Nr Torgelli Farm Figure 016 Approximate distance to site: 1.53km Viewpoint 3 is located on the main Llanharry Road. This secondary B road is the main connector route between Llanharry and Llanharan/Dolau. The viewpoint location is also adjacent to a cluster of properties at Torgelli Farm.

Value of Visual Receptors: This viewpoint is just on the border of a locally designated special landscape and does have far reaching views to the east and south east. It is within an area of high cultural value and outstanding historic value.

Susceptibility of Change on Visual Receptors: Receptors include those residents within Torgelli Farm and drivers. Susceptibility of visual receptors to change is therefore considered to high (residents) low (drivers).

Sensitivity of Visual Receptors: Receptors range from low–high susceptibility to change. The viewpoint is located on the edge of a Special Landscape Area with high cultural and outstanding historic value. As such, sensitivity of visual receptors is assessed as high.

Existing View: From this location the view is across a gently undulating rural landscape of fields bounded by mature hedgerows. The road winds away to the south and the rooftops of properties within Llanharry are visible just above a small hill rise and are clearly shown transcending the fall in land eastwards towards the site. At the eastern extents of this line of built form, the mobile concrete storage silos and promotional sales flags are visible located within the construction site of new residential properties. Topography and the area of woodland around Llanharry Mine obscure any views of the site. A minor road is visible just south of the viewpoint location transecting the view east west. Views south east and east are far reaching including the low lying Vale to the south east and high ground to the east. A number of disused vehicles and large scale containers are visible within a field just off this minor road; their bright colours draw the eye. A line of pylons also transect the landscape east- west which are a detracting feature in this otherwise pleasant view.

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Predicted View: Looking south east towards the site there would be no change to the existing view. The development would be located beyond the canopy line of trees around the former Llanharry Mine and at lower elevation and would therefore be wholly screened when viewing from this location.

Magnitude of Change: The magnitude of change from this location is therefore considered to be negligible.

Visual Impact: Receptors at this location are considered to be of high sensitivity and the magnitude of change brought about by the addition of the development is considered to be negligible. The development would result in no alteration to landscape features which contribute to the existing visual character. Therefore the visual impact from this location is considered to be neutral and not significant.

8.9 Viewpoint 4 – ProW Nr Coed Cae Farm Figure 017 Approximate distance to site: 2.89km Viewpoint 4 is located on the PRoW south of Coed Cae Farm on the un-forested upper slopes of Mynydd Garthmaelwg. The viewpoint location is one of the higher points within the study area and has far reaching views south across the Vale. This footpath is part of a network of paths that transect Mynydd Garthmaelwg (Llantrisant Forest), connecting the mountain with the settlement of Llanharan and the A473. The mountain is popular with walkers and cyclists.

Value of Visual Receptors: This is a view within the Mynydd Hugh and Llantrisant Forest Special Landscape Area and has outstanding historic value, outstanding visual and sensory value, and high cultural value.

Susceptibility of Change on Visual Receptors: Receptors include recreational users of the footpath on which the viewpoint is located. These receptors along with the nearby residents at the cluster of properties at Coed Cae Farm are therefore assessed as high susceptibility.

Sensitivity of Visual Receptors: Receptors are considered to be of high susceptibility to change. The viewpoint is located within a locally designated landscape. As such the sensitivity of visual receptors is assessed as high.

Existing View: This is a broad an expansive view spanning south east- south west with far reaching views south across the gently undulating landscape of the Vale. In the near view the land falls steeply across a field towards

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an extensive area of plantation in the middle distance. To the southeast the large scale commercial units and factories at Coedcae Industrial Estate around Talbot Green and Pontyclun can clearly be seen. The white of the buildings are in marked contrast to the mixed green hues of the adjacent plantation wood and mark the edge of this area of urban development. Pontyclun and Brynsadler are also visible in the middle distance view to the south east. To the south west, the central and western portions of Llanharry can be seen but falls from view at its eastern extents. To the west, the outer limits of Llanharan are visible just behind the slopes of Mynydd Garthmaelwg. Views north are limited by the rising slopes of the mountain and views directly east are obscured by the immediate topography. Looking towards the site, the recently constructed large property adjacent to the site is visible as well as a number of adjacent properties within the immediate vicinity. Forest Wood Quarry is visible to the south west of the site and includes the works buildings and the scarred landscape just west. A number of pylons transect the landscape and the telecommunications mast at St Hilary can be seen on the horizon. A minor portion of the eastern extents of the site is visible but as a result of distance is barely discernible to the eye.

Predicted View: Any visibility would include the addition of properties to the south east corner of the site but these would be seen in context with the existing built form at the eastern extents of Llanharry. Visibility may include the facades and roofscape of a handful of properties.

Magnitude of Change: From this location there will be a minor alteration to the overall view but it unlikely that any change will be clearly visible given the distance of the site from the viewpoint location. The defining visual elements within the view are unlikely to alter or be affected by the addition of the development. The dominating buildings at Coedcae, while not define the overall landscape, would continue to draw the eye. As such it is considered that the magnitude of change from this location is low - negligible.

Visual Impact: Visual receptors are considered to be of high sensitivity and the magnitude of change brought about by the addition of the development is considered to be low -negligible. Given the distance of the site from the viewpoint any change is unlikely to be perceived within the wider context of the view. The broad expansive view available from this location would suffer no detrimental alteration and therefore on balance the visual impact is considered to be low and not significant.

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Table X: Summary of Effects on Visual Amenity from Viewpoint Locations

VP Location Sensitivity Magnitude of Significance of

Effect/Change Effect

1 Strawberry Lane Flyover Medium Medium Low

Not Significant

2 Minor Road nr Medium Low Low

Trecastell Farm Not Significant

3 Llanharry Road nr High Negligible Low – No Change

Torgelli Farm Not Significant

4 PRoW South of High Low-Negligible Low

Coed Cae Farm Not Significant

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9.0 CONCLUSIONS

9.1 The site is well placed on a discreet area of low lying land within a gently undulating landscape which includes surrounding pre-existing built form. In combination with the screening effects that occur from local vegetation, visibility of the site is extremely limited from much of the study area including from areas considered to be of high sensitivity and/or of high value. This visual enclosure has a beneficial effect of the identified landscape character areas and consequently the significance of landscape effects are considered minor and not significant for all 6 LCAs.

9.2 The visual envelope exercise concluded that views into the site are only available from a narrow band of visibility to the north however site assessment concluded that these views are only available from areas of high ground, principally around Trecastell Farm and the lower un-forested slopes of Mynydd Garthmaelwg. These small pockets of visibility, although containing high sensitivity receptors are particularly localised, the site is viewed in context with existing settlement roofscape and therefore visual effects are not considered significant.

9.3 Of the four viewpoints assessed, three are considered to have a low significance of effects and one is considered neutral – no change.

9.4 The proposed development does not contradict any Core, or Southern Strategy Area policies within the Rhondda Cynon Taf Adopted Local Development Plan apart from policy on Green Wedge; however it is considered that the site appears rather incongruous with this designation as it is visually separated. The site and this portion of Green Wedge appears to have a stronger relationship to the built form of the existing settlement of Llanharry partly as a result of its location within a pre-existing urban framework on the western side of Strawberry Lane. Infrastructure is in place and perception is that this piece of land makes up part of the existing residential estate boundary, yet to be developed. It is judged that development on this land would, in landscape terms, strengthen the existing settlement edge, would not erode the qualities or role of the Green Wedge and round off the settlement layout on the village’s south eastern extents.

9.5 The site is not protected by any statutory landscape protection designations although it is adjacent to a county designated Special Landscape Area. The potential landscape and visual effects on land designated as Special

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Landscape Area has been assessed with the conclusion that effects on landscape character are not considered significant.

9.6 Conservation Areas Potential landscape and visual effects on the three Conservation Areas within the study area have been considered and assessed and conclude that the lack of intervisibility between the site and all three of these landscapes results in no likely effects occurring as a result of the proposed development.

9.7 Registered Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest The potential landscape and visual effects on the three Registered Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest have been considered and assessed with the conclusion that the lack of intervisibility between the site and all three of these landscapes results in no likely effects occurring as a result of the proposed development.

9.8 Scheduled Ancient Monuments The potential landscape and visual effects on the five Scheduled Ancient Monuments have been considered and assessed with the conclusion that the lack of intervisibility between the site and these designated sites results in no likely effects occurring as a result of the proposed development.

9.9 National Trails and Long Distance Paths A section of the Valeways Heritage Millennium Trail transects part of the study area to the south and falls within the visual envelope. The greater extent of the route is located to the south and outside the visual envelope and would therefore not be subject to landscape and visual effects. Where visibility is available on a short section of the trail at the Strawberry Lane flyover and the section of Strawberry Lane adjacent to site, the boundary vegetation of the site filter and constrain views. The dominance of the motorway defines the character of the landscape at this point in combination with the urban fringe quality of the western extents of Llanharry. On balance effects along this section of the route are not considered to be significant and with the implementation of advance planting any visibility of the site would be greatly reduced.

9.10 The appropriateness of the proposed development on the application site has been assessed in relation to landscape and visual constraints. This has concluded that, in principle the site can support appropriate residential development without any significant impacts on landscape character or visual amenity.

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References

Rhondda Cynon Taf Adopted Local Development Plan 2006-2021

BronwenThomas Proposals for Special Landscape Areas in Rhondda Cynon Taf – Draft Report February 2008

Vale of Glamorgan Deposit Local Development Plan 2011- 2026

Vale of Glamorgan Council Designation of Landscape Character Areas Background Paper (September 2013)

Natural Resources Wales – LANDMAP GIS Data http://landmap.ccw.gov.uk

Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage 2002 Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland

Countryside Commission CCP423 (1993) Landscape Assessment Guidance

The Landscape Institute/Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (3rd Edition) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Assessment, (E & FN Spon)

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