UK Coal Operations Limited Proposed extension of time for colliery spoil tipping Environmental Statement operations at Harworth Colliery No. 2 Spoil Heap
TECHNICAL APPENDIX 1 - Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
UK Coal Mining Limited
Harworth Colliery Tip No. 2 – Extension of Permission
Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
ESP Ltd
June 2013
Harworth Colliery Tip No. 2 - Extension of Permissions Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
Contents
Section Title Page
1.0 Report author 3
2.0 Scope of report 3
3.0 Baseline studies
3.1 Description of the site and setting 5
3.2 Landscape designations 6
3.3 Landscape character 6
3.4 Visual appraisal 9
4.0 Development proposals
4.1 Programme, Working operations, and Plant 10
4.2 Restoration proposals 11
5.0 Assessment of effects and mitigation
5.1 Landscape effects 11
5.2 Visual effects 13
6.0 Summary and conclusions
6.1 Effects on the fabric of the landscape 15
6.2 Effects on the character of the landscape and on designated landscapes 15
6.3 Potential cumulative landscape impacts 16
6.4 Effects on local access to the countryside 16
6.5 Effects on the visual amenity of local residents and visitors to the setting 16
6.6 Potential cumulative visual impacts 17
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7.0 Appendices
7.1 Methodology for assessing impact significance
7.2 Landscape Character plan (drawing number H8_LAN_001)
7.3 Estell Warren’s Visual Analysis plan from the 1996 assessment (drawing number 2074.LV1)
7.4 Visual Appraisal plan (drawing number G6_LAN_002)
7.5 Viewpoint photographs, tables of effects on views, and sightline sections from key viewpoints (drawings numbered H8_LAN_003 to 027)
7.6 References
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1.0 Report Author
This report has been prepared by Keith Hampshire, BA Dip.LA CMLI. Keith has gained extensive experience in various aspects of landscape planning and environmental assessment in the minerals development and waste management sectors over the past 25 years. He is a Director of ESP Ltd, an independent, multi- disciplinary consultancy undertaking Landscape Planning and Design, Estate Management, Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management for the public and private sectors.
2.0 Scope of report
2.1 Nottinghamshire County Council issued a Scoping Opinion to UK Coal Mining Limited on 15 March 2013 in response to a request for Scoping issued on 17 January 2013 for a proposal to extend the life of Harworth Colliery Spoil Tip number 2. The following advice was given in relation the assessing landscape and visual impact.
‘The scoping letter considers that the continuation of the disposal of spoil at the existing tip would not create significant additional visual impact over that already in place and consented by the existing planning permission. Nevertheless, an updated landscape and visual impact assessment is proposed using modern techniques which would give consideration to both the negative effects of the continuing development as well as areas where the existing features could be used to enhance the landscape. In consultation with the NCC Landscape Team a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (L&VIA) is considered necessary. The structure of the L&VIA should include the following: • Introduction; • Assessment approach; • Baseline condition; • Assessment of impacts (construction and operational stages); • Mitigation enhancement (construction and operational stages); • Residual effects; • Non-technical summary of findings. The assessment of impacts section should consider impacts to: • Landscape Resources (the physical impact) – this should quantify any physical removal of vegetation, in order that any mitigation proposed can be assessed against this. • Landscape Character – this section should make reference to the following documents which were not available when the previous assessment was carried out: - National Level – Natural England – National Character – The site is within Area 39 –
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Humberhead Levels; - Regional Level – Natural England – The East Midlands Regional Landscape Character Assessment. The site is within sub-type 2b Planned and Drained Fens and Carrlands of Regional Landscape Character Type 2 Fenland and Fenland Margins. - County Level – Bassetlaw Landscape Character Assessment. The site is within the Idle Lowlands Landscape Character Area and Policy Zone 11 Harworth. • Visual Amenity – the visual amenity of the proposals should be assessed from a series of representative viewpoints. These should be agreed in advance of the assessment with Nottinghamshire County Council Landscape Architect / Bassetlaw District Council Planning Officers.
2.2 There are no statutory criteria or standards laid down for the assessment of landscape and visual impacts. However, this report has been undertaken in general conformity with the ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ (GLVIA) 2nd Edition, published by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment and the Landscape Institute in 2002 (LI, 2002). This document defines and differentiates landscape and visual effects as follows:
‘Landscape and visual assessments are separate, although linked procedures … The assessment of the potential effect on the landscape is carried out as an effect on an environmental resource, i.e. the landscape. Visual effects are assessed as one of the interrelated effects on population.
Landscape effects derive from changes in the physical landscape, which may give rise to changes in its character and how this is experienced. This may in turn affect the perceived value ascribed to the landscape …
…Visual effects relate to the changes that arise in the composition of available views as a result of changes to the landscape, to people’s responses to the changes, and to the overall effects with respect to visual amenity.’
The methodology for assessing landscape and visual impact significance employed in this report is detailed in Appendix 7.1 below. The 3rd edition of the GLVIA was published on 17 April 2013. However, this assessment was started in March 2013 and the recommendations of the Landscape Institute Policy and
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Communications unit on 22 April were that an assessment started before publication of the 3rd edition should be completed using the 2nd edition as guidance.
3.0 Baseline studies
3.1 Description of the site and setting
(The Landscape Character plan (drawing number H8_LAN_001, located in Appendix 7.2 below) identifies the Planning Application Area)
3.1.1 The site is located approximately 1km south of Harworth, within Bassetlaw District of Nottinghamshire, approximately 2km south of the county boundary of Doncaster MBC. It lies approximately 1.5km north of Blyth, and approximately 0.5km east of the village of Styrrup.
3.1.2 The site within the Planning Application Area Boundary occupies approximately 108 hectares. This includes an area of approximately 46.4 hectares of mostly disturbed land, primarily occupied by former lagoon L10 and L11, where it is proposed to continue tipping. Approximately 61.6 hectares have been restored, including established mixed woodland [conifer and broadleaf species] areas in the north eastern area. There are mixed plantations along the eastern boundary adjacent to Blyth Road, the north western perimeter, the western boundary adjacent to the A1(M), and along the southern boundary.
3.1.3 The site sits within a generally low lying rolling landform, locally characterised by an east-west trending shallow ridge up with an elevation of up to 36m AOD. This ridge extends in a westerly direction, rising up to over 40m AOD at Malpas Hill [2.5km distance from site]. There is a northwest-southeast trending local ridge [similar in alignment with the proposed restored site landform] at Blyth Services [1km from site]. The land falls away to the south east where the River Ryton valley lies at an elevation of approximately 10m AOD, and to the northwest beyond Styrrup towards Tickhill Low Common at an elevation of 10m AOD [1.5km distance from site].
3.1.4 No public rights of way cross the site. The nearest ones within 0.5km distance of the site boundary are Footpath No.5 (Blyth) on Harworth Avenue [ref: Appendix 7.4, Viewpoint 5] and Footpath No.2 (Styrrup with Oldcotes) on Styrrup Hall Golf Course [ref: Appendix 7.4, Viewpoint 16].
3.1.5 The visual setting of the site is dominated to the north by large scale industrial development – including the Harworth Colliery – beyond which to the northeast lies the Serlby sand quarry and landfill site. To the west the site is constrained by the A1(M) that emerges from cutting south east of Styrrup and runs on shallow embankment adjacent to the central and southern site area - beyond which lies Whitewater
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Common. To the south east large open arable fields on gently undulating landform continue to the more wooded River Ryton valley and parkland of Serlby Hall.
3.1.6 The A1(M) is a major visual and sensory detractor in the immediate setting of the site. Further from the site, an overhead power line on steel lattice pylons runs parallel to the A1 approximately 1.5km to the west.
3.2 Landscape designations
3.2.1 The site does not lie within or adjacent to any designated landscapes. The nearest Conservation Area is located at Blyth, approximately 2km south of the site boundary, and at Oldcotes, approximately 2km west of the site boundary. The Registered Historic Park and Gardens at Sandbeck Park lie approximately 2.5km west of the site boundary.
3.3 Landscape Character
Introduction
3.3.1 The baseline landscape section of this report addresses two aspects: a classification of the landscape including descriptions of its characteristic features; and an evaluation of the resource including an assessment of values ascribed to the setting, its capacity to sustain impacts and sensitivity to change.
Classification
(Refer to the Landscape Character plan, drawing number H8_LAN_001 in Appendix 7.2)
3.3.2 Landscape Character Assessments (LCA) have been developed at a series of scales in England, ranging from the National Character Areas (NCA) produced by Natural England (and its predecessor the Countryside Commission) through to the County, District and Zonal studies, often produced by Local Planning Authorities. At the National Level, the site falls within NCA No. 39: ‘The Humberhead Levels’, however it is proximate to three other NCA’s which are also noted in this study. At the Regional Level the site falls within the East Midlands Regional LCA ‘Sandland Farmlands’. At the local level, the site falls within Nottinghamshire’s Bassetlaw District LCA study, and is in the ‘Idle Lowlands’ character area. However, due to the sites proximity to the Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council administrative area, the Landscape Character and Capacity Assessment for Doncaster [2007] has also been reviewed.
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National Level
3.3.3. The Humberhead Levels National Character Area (No. 39) covers the area of Harworth, to approximately 1km south of the site. A majority of this NCA is to the northeast of the site, extending into Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire. The description of the Humberhead Levels is one of;
“The Humberhead Levels is a flat, low-lying and large scale agricultural landscape bounded to the west by the low ridge of the Southern Magnesian Limestone and to the east by the Yorkshire Wolds (north of the Humber) and the Northern Lincolnshire Edge with Coversands (south of the Humber). To the north it merges into the slightly undulating landscape of the Vale of York, at the line of the Escrick Moraine, and in the south it merges in to the Trent and Belvoir Vales and Sherwood”.
[Natural England, 2012]
This excerpt from the NCA Profile of the Humberhead levels mentions that in the south, around the site, the character area borders the Southern Magnesian Limestone NCA (No. 30, approximately 5.7km west of site), Sherwood NCA (No. 49, approximately 4.7km south of the site) and the Trent & Belvoir Vales NCA (No. 48, approximately 9.1km south east of the site.
The broad descriptions of landscape character in these national scale studies is less relevant when dealing with specific sites where more detailed LCA studies are available and have been adopted as Supplementary Planning Documents (SPD) or Guidance (SPG), or have been used to inform local development planning and planning policy.
Regional Level
3.3.4 At the Regional Level, the site lies within the ‘River Valley Floodplains’ as defined by the Natural England ‘East Midlands Regional Landscape Character Assessment’, which was completed in 2010. The site lies within the sub-type 3b ‘Sandland Farmlands’, described as:
“The Sandland Farmlands is a settled agricultural landscape with small rural villages and farms set amongst productive fields. Whilst significant areas retain a peaceful agricultural character, notable portions of the landscape are influenced by extraction industries, with coal mining and sand and gravel workings evident in several locations. These busy areas are characterised by noticeably higher levels of activity and industrial infrastructure when compared to the rural areas.” 3.3.5 The ‘East Midlands Regional Landscape Character Assessment’ details the following specific points under the sub heading of ‘Mining and Waste’ within the ‘Sandland Farmlands’ [Natural England, 2010]:
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“While extraction sites are in marked contrast to the surrounding arable fields, reducing the sense of tranquillity and creating visual intrusion, such infrastructure is not uncommon in this landscape …in relation to colliery and landfill sites, opportunities for restoration to woodland and farmland should be explored.”
County Level
3.3.6 Within the Site’s setting, the relevant Nottinghamshire LCA study is the Bassetlaw District LCA study, which was completed in 2009 [Notts CC, 2009] and subsequently has been used as a ‘Background Study’ to the Bassetlaw District Local Development Framework. The site lies within Policy Zone 11 ‘Harworth’ of the ‘Idle Lowlands’ LCA, described as:
“Landform is predominantly rounded and gently undulating with flatter areas in the north. Open views towards higher ground and wooded skylines are given in the north and west, becoming more restricted further south due to tree and hedgerow cover. Arable and mixed farmland extends across the northern section of the Policy Zone while coal extraction [Harworth Colliery] dominates the central and southern area, though there is some arable farmland to the east and west of the colliery site.” 3.3.7 The Landscape Character and Capacity Assessment for Doncaster [ECUS, 2007] identifies that the nearest LCAs are the ‘Bawtry-Finningley Sandland Heaths and Farmland’ approximately 1.4kmto the north, and ‘TorneRiver Carrlands’ approximately 1.5km to the north west. These have been defined as having a ‘Low’ and ‘Moderate’ landscape capacity for mineral workings respectively.
Evaluation
3.3.8 The Bassetlaw District LCA study includes a Landscape Analysis of the ‘Harworth’ Policy Zone. It details the landscape condition as ‘poor’ and describes the ‘pattern of elements’ as ‘incoherent’ and notes ‘many detracting features; industrial and commercial land uses, evidence of mineral extraction[spoil heaps], busy roads’. It also includes an assessment of sensitivity, in which it details the ‘weak sense of place combined with moderate visibility results in a low landscape sensitivity overall’ [Our emphasis]. This is considered this to be a reasonable assessment.
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3.4 Visual appraisal
3.4.1 The Environmental Impact Assessment that accompanied the planning application for the current Tip permission included a landscape and visual impact assessment, written by Estell Warren in 1996. This report identified the approximate visual envelope and the extents of views from settlements, dwellings, roads and public rights of way (Ref: Appendix 7.3, dwg no 2074.LV1). The visual environment has not changed significantly since 1996 with the exception of the vertical extents of the Tip. Following a desktop study, rooted in the 1996 report, a visual appraisal plan ( Ref: Appendix 7.4, dwg no H8_LAN_002) was prepared that identifies 20 representative viewpoints rated ‘high’ or ‘medium’ in sensitivity from a range of locations around the compass within a radius of approximately 3.5km from the centre of the Tip. Although, viewpoints were identified at greater distances, it was considered that analysis of more distant views would not give further insight to the potential visual effects of the development. The 20 representative viewpoints are listed within the table below.
Sensitivity Location Viewpoint Residential properties along the A614 Bawtry Road 3
Elm Cottage, A614 Bawtry Road 4
Residential properties at Harworth Avenue 5
Green Lane PRoW 6 South View, B6045 Blyth Road 7 PRoW to Hodstock Cottage, Winks Wood 8 Residential properties along A60, Langold 10 High PRoW adjacent to residential properties along B6463, 11 Oldcotes ‘Other Public Access’ along Whitewater Lane 12 Residential properties along B6463 Main Street, Styrrup 13 Village Hall and play area, Serlby Road, Styrrup 14 Residential properties along B6463 Styrrup Road, 15 Harworth PRoW at Styrrup Hall Golf & Country Club 16 Residential properties along Lindrick Lane, Tickhill 20
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Sensitivity Location Viewpoint
Roundabout A614/A1M at Blyth Services 1
Minor Road northwest of Harworth Lodge 2 Medium A634 northwest of Blyth 9
Styrrup Lane/Thornbury Hill Lane/A60 south of Tickhill 17/18/19
4.0 Development proposals
(Refer to the planning application site, phasing and restoration proposals plans)
4.1 Programme, Working operations and Plant
4.1.1 Harworth Colliery has been in a Planning status of ‘care and maintenance’ for the last 6 years. In order to prepare for re-opening the Colliery, this proposal aims to extend the life of No. 2 Spoil Tip. The proposed development is described in full within the supporting statement to the Planning Application. This section of the report describes in summary only salient elements of the development process that could potentially affect the landscape and people’s visual amenity.
4.1.2 There are a total of 6 further phases of tipping and restoration (numbered R4 to R9 on the Visual Appraisal plan, Ref: Appendix 7.4), within an overall period of 25 years that includes approximately a 3 year ‘lead in’ and a 2 year final restoration. Average restoration Phase periods are around 3.7 years, but this will vary according to the intensity of colliery operations and the manner of disposing fine discards. In general the extended tip would be operated in the same way as the existing tip: discard transport to site via conveyor; transferred to final positions via excavator and dump truck; fine discards to Lagoons 10 and 11, with coarse discard to the remaining areas including the south, east and west banks (although the lagoons may be divided into smaller cells or replaced by a press plant); vehicular access will be via existing site entrances on Blyth Road.
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4.2 Restoration proposals
4.2.1 The proposed restoration proposals are unchanged from 1996, as illustrated on Estell Warren’s plan, drawing number 2074.1 (revision A). They comprise a single, sinuous ridge with a central longitudinal slope gradient of approximately 1:40 and side slopes constructed to a maximum slope gradient of 1:4. The side slopes will be constructed to a gentle sine curve profile to give them a naturalistic appearance. They will be planted progressively to an almost continuous, but wavy edges belt of mixed woodland. The upper slopes and the northwest corner of the ridge will be restored to permanent pasture and/or wildflower meadow. Acid grassland/heath will be created through glades and woodland margins. Perimeter ditches and ponds will control surface water runoff. A series of proposed footpaths will be created across the restored site linking perimeter settlements and existing public rights of way and other pedestrian routes.
5.0 Assessment of effects and mitigation (Note: terms in italics are defined in Appendix 7.1 - Methodology for assessing impact significance)
5.1 Landscape effects
5.1.1 Landscape impacts are assessed in relation to the effects of change caused by the proposed development on the fabric and character of the landscape. The existing character of the areas influenced by the development site and its setting has been described above and its sensitivity to change and enhancement potential identified. Sensitivity to change relates to strength of character, or local distinctiveness, and condition of the fabric. The proposed changes to the landscape are described, mitigation measures are identified and the residual long term landscape impact assessed below.
Existing landscape condition
5.1.2 Paragraph 3.3.8 identifies the overall landscape sensitivity as low. The site and immediate surroundings to the north and northeast are dominated by the mining and industrial elements. Most important to the character of the site is its location between the busy A1(M) and the large scale industrial development at Harworth Colliery - it sits within a landscape that is defined by mining and industry. To the immediate east and south east the rural setting has already been partially compromised by the existing tip. The mature parkland at Serlby Park and Brecks Wood serves to effectively screen the site from further to the east and southeast. However, although the landscape is more open to the west, the rural setting has been less compromised, due to the partial enclosure and separation provided by the A1(M).
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Predicted significance of landscape effects
5.1.3 The proposed tipping and phased restoration will result in a large magnitude of effect on a landscape of low sensitivity resulting in a moderate adverse medium term impact on a very local scale. There will be a temporary loss of approximately 3.5 hectares of relatively young woodland plantation established prematurely on the site of Restoration Phases 4 and 6.
Possible landscape mitigation
5.1.4 Most of the existing perimeter side slopes are already restored and some woodland is already mature in stature. The temporary loss of woodland plantation on the northwest margins will be adequately compensated for by replacement woodland within Restoration Phases 4, 6 and 7.
5.1.5 The phased restoration will minimise the perception of this impact. The final landform will be completed within 25 years, by which time the proposed tree and shrub planting will have matured, softening the tip flanks and assisting in integrating this man made feature into the wider landscape. The final profile of the restoration landform will enable the Tip to be accommodated within the landscape. By the 15 years post restoration stage it is anticipated that it will no longer be perceived as a post-industrial feature.
Predicted residual landscape effects
5.1.6 If the landscape proposals are properly implemented and maintained, the long term impact of the mature development could mitigate the landscape impact significance from a rating of moderately adverse to slightly adverse. Furthermore, the proposed restored site landform has a north-south axis, in approximate alignment with the local ridge at Blyth Services that trends northwest-southeast, located just 1km south of the Site.
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5.2 Visual effects
(Refer to Appendices 7.3, 7.4 and 7.5 below)
Introduction
5.2.1 Visual impacts are assessed in relation to viewpoints identified in the visual appraisal, section 3.4 above. The current standard of visual amenity is described; the changes to views resulting from the proposed development are assessed; proposed mitigation measures are identified and finally the resulting potential visual impact is assessed, including an assessment of how this may change over the stages of the development. 5 out of the 20 identified viewpoints were chosen as being representative and Nottinghamshire County Council’s Landscape Architects were contacted on 23rd April 2012 and supplied with much of the baseline data to give their opinion on the validity of these choices. Unfortunately, no opinions were expressed by the competent authority before the submission of the planning application. Potential visual effects were analysed from these viewpoints by reference to the photographs and sightline sections plotted at three stages of the development. Tables of predicted visual effects located below the existing site photographs identify: the viewpoint location and distance from the Site; sensitivity/visual condition of the setting; changes to visual character/amenity; magnitude of change; potential significance of visual effect; effective mitigation measures and predicted significance of residual visual effects.
Existing visual environment
5.2.2 The field study revealed a small zone of visual influence around the Site to the north and north east, approximately 1km away. The zone of visual influence extends to approximately 3km to the east and west, and beyond this to the northwest and southeast. All the viewpoints are assessed as high or medium sensitivity.
Predicted significance of visual effects
5.2.3 The detailed visual assessment for the 5 representative viewpoints [No’s 3, 6, 8, 11 and 13] with sightline sections are detailed on drawings numbered H8_LAN_006, 010, 013, 017 and 020 within Appendix 7.5 below. A summary of the predicted effects on views reads as follows:
Views from residential receptors
Views from the residential receptors have a sensitivity rating of high. The landform extending south from the conical tip will dominate many views, and will generally be viewed against the skyline.
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However, these are only likely to be substantial adverse from the properties along the A614 on the northern edge of Blyth [Ref: Viewpoints 3 and 4 from Elm Cottage]. From these viewpoints the proposed landform will be within 0.7km, and will dominate the horizon to the northwest. The mitigation measures including the ‘rounding off’ of the existing conical tip, will moderate these effects in the longer term to moderate adverse. Photographs from Viewpoints 13 and 14 and Sightline Sections 13-E demonstrate that the landscape disturbance within Restoration Phases 4 and 6 will not adversely affect most views from the village of Styrrup.
Views from Public Rights of Way
Views from the Public Rights of Way have a sensitivity rating of high. The nearest ones to the site boundary are Footpath No.5 (Blyth) (Viewpoint 5) on Harworth Avenue and Footpath No.2 (Styrrup with Oldcotes) on Styrrup Hall Golf Course (Viewpoint 16). However, due to intervening perimeter planting on the east bank there will only be moderate adverse visual effects from Footpath No. 2. From Footpath No.5 the proposed landform will dominate the horizon to the south east, resulting in a substantial adverse visual effect. However, the mitigation measures and the removal of the conveyor discharge will moderate these effects in the longer term to moderate adverse. There are views from the ‘Other Public Access’ along Whitewater Lane (Ref Viewpoint 12), where the landform extending south from the conical tip will generally be viewed against the skyline to the east, resulting in a substantial adverse visual effect. The mitigation measures and establishment of perimeter planting on the lower and middle flanks of the west bank, and the removal of the conveyor discharge will moderate these effects in the longer term to moderate adverse.
Views from Public Highway
Views from the Public Highway have a sensitivity rating of medium. There landform extending south from the conical tip will dominate many views from roads within at least 1km from the site. From the A614, minor road northwest of Harworth Lodge and the B6463 (Viewpoints 1,2, 3, 4 and 12) there are likely to be substantial adverse visual effects. However, the mitigation measures and the removal of the conveyor discharge will moderate these effects in the longer term to moderate adverse.
Possible visual mitigation measures
5.2.4 Continued growth of the mixed broadleaf and coniferous woodland already well established on the lower banks will accommodate the rising tip within the landscape and obscure some of the shallow angled local views.
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5.2.5 Early construction of the outer side slopes (particularly during Restoration Phases 7 and 9), followed by seeding down and planting to woodland, will obscure tipping activity behind within the same Phase.
5.2.6 Progressive restoration of woodland and pasture on a sub-phase by sub-phase basis and detailed attention to the establishment and management of the land cover, as currently demonstrated by the success of Restoration Phases 1 to 3.
Predicted residual visual effects
5.2.7 The tables of predicted visual effects for the 5 representative key viewpoints including views from dwellings, public rights of way and settlements indicate that all of the residual visual effects, in the very long term will be mitigated or moderated to ratings of slight to moderate adverse. Furthermore, the proposed restored site landform will obscure views of Harworth Colliery and industrial development from southerly and south-westerly viewpoints.
6.0 Summary and conclusions
6.1 Effects on the fabric of the landscape
6.1.1 The existing profile of Tip Number 2 is partially complete. The proposed final landform and land cover would be to woodland and permanent pasture. Although most of the perimeter banks have been restored to woodland, with some grassland in the northwest corner, the remaining open central lagoon areas would be difficult to restore to a land use and character appropriate to the setting. The conical profile of the early tip and flat top to the remaining lagoon area left in their current landform would be perceived as a post-industrial landscape for years to come, even if they were eventually covered with woodland.
6.2 Effects on the character of the landscape and on designated landscapes
6.2.1 The local landscape study identifies the Site and setting in paragraph 3.3.8 above as having a low landscape sensitivity, due to the detracting features of mining, industry and busy roads. The proposed tipping and phased restoration will result in a large magnitude of effect on a landscape of low sensitivity resulting in a moderate adverse medium term impact on a very local scale. The long and very long term mitigation measures of creating a naturalistic landform and softening the profile with woodland would
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create a feature that could be accommodated within this partly industrial setting. The very long term residual landscape impact significance could be moderated from a rating of moderately adverse to slightly adverse. There are no designated landscapes sufficiently close to the Tip for its continued operation and restoration to directly or indirectly affect them.
6.3 Potential cumulative landscape impacts
6.3.1 The only other mineral developments within the immediate setting of Tip 2 are Harworth Tip number 1 and a small sand and gravel pit on the southern edge of Styrrup. The only other mineral workings that are prominent locally are at Maltby and Holme Quarries, over 7 kilometres to the northwest. Even if a potential cumulative landscape could be construed, either from concurrent or successive mineral developments, the effects of not restoring Harworth Tip number 2 to its designed landform and land cover would have a far greater adverse landscape impact in the long and very long terms.
6.4 Effects on local access to the countryside
6.4.1 The existing partly completed tip would be difficult to make accessible from a safety point of view for many years. The completion of the original restoration scheme designed in 1996 would potentially improve local access to the countryside in the very long term. It would also offer unprecedented long distance views across the wider landscape from the upper areas towards the west, south and east.
6.5 Effects on the visual amenity of local residents and visitors to the setting
6.5.1 The field study revealed a small zone of visual influence around the Site to the north and northeast, approximately 1km away. The zone of visual influence extends to approximately 3 kilometres to the east and west, and beyond this to the northwest and southeast. All the viewpoints are assessed as high or medium sensitivity.
6.5.2 Many visual receptors at dwellings, settlements, public rights of way and quiet country lanes could potentially be affected by the continued tipping to a substantial adverse rating. Most of these effects can be mitigated by: continued growth of the mixed broadleaf and coniferous woodland already well established on the lower banks; early construction and restoring the outer leading tip slopes; and progressive, well managed woodland and grassland management. The effects on all the key viewpoints
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analysed were shown to be capable of being moderated to slight to moderate adverse in the very long term.
6.6 Potential cumulative visual impacts
6.6.1 Neither the combined visual effects from inter-visibility with other development, nor the sequential visual effects of similar development along a route can be construed as creating adverse cumulative visual impacts. In fact, the very long term effects of completing the full tip landform and land cover will help to obscure views of industrial operations from settlements located to the south and southwest of the Site.
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7.0 Appendices
7.1 Methodology for assessing impact significance
Introduction
Guidance for the undertaking of this Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment has been sourced from:
The Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (second edition), published April 2002 by the Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment; and
Landscape Character Assessment, Guidance for England and Scotland, published April 2002 by the Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage.
The general text below describes the background behind the process, whereas the numbered paragraphs describe the sequence of processes.
Baseline assessment
The baseline study is a process of research, observational recording, classification and analysis of the existing landscape and visual resources. It is undertaken to determine the context against which the new development is to be compared and to establish the importance of the constituent parts of the landscape and factors affecting the visibility of the proposed development. This provides information against which the magnitude, sensitivity and thus the significance of a predicted landscape or visual impact can be reviewed in the assessment stage of the process.
The study of the baseline conditions includes a review of available document sources, map data, plans, aerial photographs and the undertaking of a field survey with photographic records.
Landscape Character
1. The National Character Area of the setting, as identified by Natural England, and the Landscape Character Type, as identified in the County or District Landscape Character Assessment, are described along with:
Characteristic features present
Incongruous features present
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Other designations and features that influence landscape character
2. A landscape sensitivity rating is ascribed for each Landscape Character Type within the setting. The Character is evaluated in terms of the strength and condition of features worthy of conserving, sense of place and sensitivity to change. Ratings for landscape sensitivity are allocated according to the following parameters.
‘High’:
Where there is a strong landscape structure and characteristic patterns of landform and land cover. Where there are features in good condition that are worthy of conservation and a strong sense of place.
Where the landscape is often sensitive to change.
‘Medium’:
Where there is a recognisable landscape structure and characteristic patterns of landform and land cover. Some may be masked by developed land cover.
Where there is a combination of features worthy of conservation and some detracting features.
Where the landscape may be sensitive to change.
‘Low’:
Where little or no landscape pattern is evident. Where the landform and land cover are masked by land use.
Where a lack of management has resulted in a degraded appearance or where there are frequent detracting features.
Visual appraisal
3. In order to assess the degree of visual impact a development may generate, it is first necessary to identify the visual sensitivity of the site. Visual sensitivity is determined by cross referencing visual significance of the development site with the type of the receptors and their visual environment. An
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assessment of visual significance requires the consideration of the following factors: the type of potential visual intrusion, the extent of views of the site, the scale of the site relative to the field of view, the openness of the setting, orientation of views relative to the movement of the sun and prevailing climatic conditions.
4. The first stage is normally to identify the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) of the development site. However, as this is a proposed surface mine including large soils and overburden storage mounds, it was considered appropriate to identify the ZTV of the most potentially visually intrusive stage of the development, because the ZTV for the site only is likely to be considerably smaller and possibly misleading. The full ZTV of the proposed development is illustrated on drawing number G6_LAN_001 in Appendix 7.3 below.
The coloured areas on the ZTV plan represent bands of increasing vertical angles of visibility derived from a digital terrain model (dtm) of the development site and its setting. The dtm is constructed by Land Survey Systems (LSS) software supplied by McCarthy Taylor Systems Ltd. First, a dtm of the broad setting of the site is constructed from OS Landform Profile data tiles. A dtm of the most potentially visually intrusive stage of the development is then inserted into the setting model.
A ZTV scan is then created by measuring, from a grid of points across the dtm at 25 metres centres, the vertical angle of visibility of 50 target points located on the main overburden and soil mounds. The output is interpolated into a contour plan of angles at 0.15˚ intervals. The contour plan is then split into bands of angles colour coded from light green (least angle) to dark red (greatest angle). The band values in this instance are: 0 to 0.3˚, les than 0.6˚, less than 1.2˚, less than 2.4˚, less than 4.8˚, less than 9.6˚, and greater than 9.6˚. An image of the coloured bands is overlaid on the OS Explorer map at 1:15,000 scale by locating the bottom left and top right points of the model on the grids of the OS map.
The resulting plan does not indicate the true extents of the visual envelope of the development, because the model it is derived from comprises the landform surface only. It does not include the structures, buildings, trees, woodland or hedges found on the site or the surrounding landscape. It does, however, help identify the visibility hotspots and potential areas of search in which to locate key viewpoints on the
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ground. Following the desk top study of the ZTV, a field survey is undertaken to record views, visual receptors and key viewpoints from where visualisation should be constructed. Ratings for potential visual sensitivity are allocated according to the following matrix of parameters:
SENSITIVITY Visual significance Where current Where Where current Where views open views are current views of the of the site are obtained of a views of the site are largely distant, major part of site are obscured by incidental or the site; or partially intervening barely where close, obscured by landform, distinguishable partially intervening structures or from its obscured views landform, vegetation; or surroundings of the site structures where the to the naked dominate the or angle or field eye location vegetation of view is Visual receptor types/ particularly Visual environment narrow Where the view forms a strong component of the activity, such as those from daytime residential rooms or private gardens, public rights of way, de facto footpaths and access land, particularly designated recreational paths and National Trails. Includes views from Public houses, restaurants, parks etc. with High High Medium Low outward views towards the development. Areas well-known for high visual amenity. Open areas of recognised public access where primary enjoyment is obtained from views of the landscape. Areas with high expectations of visual amenity. May affect a high number of receptors. Where views are noticeable, but not integral to the main activities; such as at sporting or active recreational facilities where amenity is gained from the landscape setting but is not essential to the activity. Includes views from High Medium Low Low residential rooms used primarily during night hours and from remote country lanes. Moderate expectations of visual amenity. Moderate numbers of people may be affected. Where views are incidental to other activities, such as those from work where visual amenity is currently lacking or when travelling past the Medium Low Low Low site by rail or road. Low expectations of visual amenity. Numbers of people affected may be low.
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Impact assessment
The assessment of landscape and visual effects is based on information concerning the attributes of the receiving environment and the location, scale and nature of the proposed development, as identified in the baseline studies. The assessment of effects aims to:
Identify systematically the likely effects of the development;
Indicate measures of mitigation;
Estimate the magnitude of effects; and
Provide an assessment of the nature and significance of these effects.
The landscape and visual impact assessment includes descriptions of the residual effects of the proposed development after mitigation measures have been taken into account. The assessment is part of an iterative process of survey, design, assessment and feedback.
Landscape effects
Landscape effects derive from changes in the physical landscape (landscape elements), which may give rise to how this is experienced (together with landscape elements termed landscape characteristics). This may in turn affect the perceived value or quality ascribed to the landscape.
The description and analysis of effects on the landscape relies on the adoption of certain basic principles about the positive or negative effects of change in the landscape. Due to the dynamic nature of the landscape, it can be accepted that change arising from a development may not necessarily be significant. The landscape impact assessment describes the likely nature and scale of changes to individual landscape elements and characteristics and the consequential effect on the landscape character in relation to the development site itself and on the wider landscape.
Part of this assessment takes account of existing trends that can be of both human and natural origin. The determination of the sensitivity of the landscape resource is based upon an evaluation of each key element or characteristic of the landscape likely to be affected. The evaluation reflects such factors as its quality, value, contribution to the wider landscape character, and the degree to which the particular element can be replaced. Change can vary between small and large scale, or be so small that there is, in effect, no
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change. The effects of change may be negative or positive and may exist for short (temporary) or long (permanent) periods. More weight is placed on larger scale and permanent changes.
Visual effects
The assessment of visual effects describes:
The changes in character of the available views resulting from the proposed development; and
The changes in the visual amenity of the visual receptors.
The magnitude or scale of visual change is assessed with reference to elements such as:
The extent/proportion of change within the view;
The degree of contrast;
The duration of the effect;
The nature of the effect;
The angle of view;
The distance of receptor (viewpoint) from the development; and
The area where changes will be visible.
The assessment of visual amenity is subjective. To avoid reliance on this subjective matter, visual amenity (condition of existing view) is described only without a value attributed to this.
Cumulative effects
This assessment considers the cumulative effects of the development proposal, which can result from:
Combined landscape effects of concurrent development (not necessarily visible together);
Successive landscape effects of similar developments over a period of time
Combined visual effects from inter-visibility with other development;
Sequential visual effects of similar development along a route;
Combined environmental effects of the same development.
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The cumulative effects of other third party proposals (not yet realised) have not been assessed in this report.
Assessment process
5. The significance of landscape and visual impacts is determined by combining ratings for the sensitivity of the receptor with the potential magnitude of the effect. The magnitude of the effect, either adverse or beneficial is classified as follows for landscape criteria:
‘Negligible’ – Where the proposals would change a very small number of landscape characteristics on a very small scale.
‘Small’ – Where the proposals would change a small number of landscape characteristics on a small scale.
‘Medium’ – Where the proposals would change a small number of landscape characteristics, but on a large scale
‘Large’ – Where the proposals would change several key landscape characteristics on a large scale.
Where variations between relevant criteria, duration etc. occur, reasoned professional judgement is applied and described in the assessment to determine the magnitude of effect. In general, the duration weighting applied to magnitude is as follows:
Very long term effect: 20 years or more
Long term effect: 10 to 20 years
Medium term effect: 4 to 10 years
Short term effects: 1 to 3 years
Temporary effect: Less than 12 months
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6. The magnitude of the effect, either adverse or beneficial is classified as follows for visual criteria:
‘Negligible’ – Where the proposals are just visible within a wide field of view. They would not be capable of conveying a moderate impact, even when modified by highly sensitive receptors.
‘Small’ – Where proposals would constitute only a minor component of the wider view and do not affect the overall composition of the scene. They would not be capable of conveying a substantial impact, even when modified by highly sensitive receptors.
‘Medium’ – Where proposals would form a visible and recognisable new element within a wide field of view, but would not be dominant within the overall view. They are assessed as minor with little impact, but capable of being modified by highly sensitive receptors.
‘Large’ – Where the proposals would form significant or dominant feature in a specific vista that would affect the overall impression of the place. They are assessed as having a significant impact even when modified by receptors of low sensitivity.
7. The significance of each potential impact is graded according to the table below.
Impact Magnitude of effect (adverse or beneficial)
Significance NEGLIGIBLE SMALL MEDIUM LARGE
LOW Negligible Negligible Slight Moderate Sensitivity MEDIUM Negligible Slight Moderate Substantial of receptor HIGH Slight Moderate Substantial Substantial
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8. The implications of the effects on the character or condition of the landscape and for the visual amenity resulting from the proposed development are described below. Adverse effects can be reduced or moderated by effective mitigation measures.
‘Substantially adverse/beneficial’ – Permanent or long term change to key elements such that the local or wider landscape character/condition or sensitive visual receptors are substantially affected in an adverse or beneficial way. Potential mitigation measures would be ineffective to prevent adverse effects, but very effective in promoting beneficial effects.
‘Moderately adverse/beneficial’ – Permanent or temporary detrimental or beneficial change to key elements, or permanent change to less important elements such that the landscape character/condition or any visual receptors are moderately affected in an adverse or beneficial way. Potential mitigation measures would moderate effects to a minor degree.
‘Slightly adverse/beneficial ‘– Permanent or temporary detrimental or beneficial change to minor elements such that the landscape character/condition or any visual receptors are slightly affected in an adverse or beneficial way. Potential mitigation measures would moderate effects to a major degree.
‘Negligible’ – Minor change to minor elements such that the landscape character/condition or any visual receptors are negligibly affected in either an adverse or beneficial way.
9. An impact significance rating of ‘substantial’ is considered to be significant in this report under the EIA Regulations 2011.
Photographs
Recent guidance from The Landscape Institute (2011) requires that the size of photographs, when seen at a ‘normal’ distance, match the size of the actual view. To define the size for a set viewing distance the focal length of the lens used and the size of the camera sensor must be known. The required viewing distance is divided by the focal length to give a multiplication factor. Thus a 300mm standard viewing distance divided
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by a 35mm digital focal length = 8.5714 multiplication factor. The size of the camera sensor (Canon 400D – 14.8mm x 22.2mm) is then multiplied by this factor, giving a landscape orientation image size of 190.3mm wide x 126.9mm tall.
The panoramic images used in Appendix 7.5 below were created by taking a series of overlapping photographs with a 35mm digital focal length (56mm optical equivalent), an aperture value of f5.6 on manual focus. The photographs were taken in portrait format and ‘stitched’ together using Microsoft Image Composite Editor software to form a single panoramic image with a field and depth of view similar to that seen by the human eye. Each image was then resized so that the individual photograph frames are 190mm high on an A3 paper sheet. A ‘Powerclip’ box was applied over the image in CorelDRAW Photopaint to ensure that the overall image was not resized in cropping it to a rectangular shape.
7.6 References
The Landscape Institute & IEMA (LI). 2002. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment .2nd edition. London: Spon Press.
Natural England. 2010. Natural England Position Statement: All Landscapes Matter. [Online]. Available from; http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/landscape/importance/default.aspx
Natural England. 2012. National Character Areas profile: 39. Humberhead Levels. [Online]. Available from; http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/publications/nca/humberhead_levels.aspx
Natural England. 2010. East Midlands Regional Landscape Character Assessment, [specifically Section 4, 3b Sandland Farmlands p.133]
Nottinghamshire County Council. 2009. Bassetlaw Landscape Character Assessmen,t [specifically Idle Lowlands Policy Zone 11:Harworth]
ECUS. 2007. Doncaster Landscape Character and Capacity Study, [specifically Figure 8: Landscape Capacity for Mineral working]
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