Landscape Statement

INDIGO

LANDSCAPE STATEMENT

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS BURLEY SECURITY LODGE, WOOLTON HILL, NEWBURY for Burley Estate

March 2019 Revision A

INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS In the interest of sustainability, this document is intended to be printed double sided on A3 paper.

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PROJECT NO. 822

DOCUMENT REFERENCE 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 REVISION A

AUTHOR(S) Fiona Sharman

STATUS PLANNING INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

CONTENTS

1 Introduction APPENDICES 1.1 Purpose and Scope of Statement Appendix. 1 Extracts from The North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: 1.2 The Approach/ Methodology • Management Plan 2014-2019. 2 Site Context • Lowland Mosaic Character Type. 2.1 Introduction 2.2 The Site • 8E - Highclere Lowlands & Heath Character Area. 2.3 Visual Context – Zone of Visual Influence 2.4 Enclosure and Openness Appendix. 2 Extract from National Character Area Profile 129. Thames Basin Heaths. 2.5 Landform, Topography, Soils and Drainage Appendix. 3 Extract from the Hampshire County Integrated Character Assessment, Character Area 2A: Highclere Chase 2.6 Vegetation and Land Use/ Management 2.7 Access/ Movement 2.8 Settlement Patterns and Heritage DRAWINGS 3 Planning Policy and Landscape Designations 822-SW-01 Detailed Planting Proposals 3.1 Introduction 822-IM-01 Materials Image Board 3.2 Relevant Planning History 3.3 Landscape Designations 822-MS-01 Management Statement 3.4 North Wessex Downs AONB 3.5 Published Character Appraisals/ Existing Character Assessments 3.6 Cultural Heritage

4 The Proposed Development 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Landscape Proposals

5 Likely Landscape Effects 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Physical Influences 5.3 Influences of Human Activity 5.4 Aesthetic and Perceptual Factors 5.5 Effects on AONB Special Qualities and Character Areas 5.6 Analysis of the Potential Effects on AONB Key Characteristics and Issues 5.7 Other Published Appraisals 5.8 Effects on Overall Landscape Character

6 Likely Visual Effects 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Overall Visual Effects

7 Compliance with Policy EM1 - Landscape

8 Conclusion

9 Glossary

10 References

Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newbury Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 Landscape Statement March 2019 Copyright © 2019 Indigo Landscape Architects. All Rights Reserved Page 1 This page is left intentionally blank. INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

1 INTRODUCTION 2 SITE CONTEXT

1.1. Purpose and Scope of Statement 2.1. Introduction

1.1.1. This Landscape Statement is provided in support of a Section 73 application relating to the proposed revised 2.1.1. This section describes the site and its relationship with its surroundings, taking account of any relevant Physical location for the Burley Security Lodge, Burley Estate, Woolton Hill, Newbury. Influences, Influences of Human Activity, and Aesthetic and Perceptual Factors that make up the landscape.

1.1.2. As the principle of development within the site has been established, the purpose of this Statement is to identify 2.1.2. This section should be read in conjunction with Figures 1, 2 and 3 and photo record on pages 13 to 18. the Landscape and Visual effects that are likely to occur in the revised location when compared to that of the approved location, taking into account any mitigation proposed. 2.2. The Site

1.1.3. This document has been prepared by Fiona Sharman, an Associate at Indigo Landscape Architects Ltd. Fiona is 2.2.1. The Site is located within the grounds of the Burley Estate and consists of a parcel of land of 0.3 ha in size. The site a Chartered Landscape Architect with over 20 years’ experience in producing landscape assessments including is located immediately beyond and to the left of a gated security entrance, beyond which is a private drive leading acting as an expert witness on landscape matters. northeastwards to Burley House.

1.1.4. This statement gives due respect to and takes into account the comments and opinion of the Basingstoke 2.2.2. Access to the Estate and the Site is off Woolton Hill Road. The southwestern boundary of the Site runs alongside and Deane Council’s Landscape Officer relating to the location of the Security Lodge within the Site. It is not Woolton Hill Road. intended to challenge their opinion, more so to add a supplementary and more rigorous landscape analysis/ evidence base that was not available with the original submission. As a result of this analysis there is on balance 2.3. Visual Context - Zone of Visual Influence a landscape and visual justification for the revised location. 2.3.1. The estimated Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) is very limited and differs only slightly to that of the approved 1.1.5. In relation to the above, particular regard is also given to the Site’s location within the North Wessex Downs location. The estimated ZVI is shown on Figure 1 overleaf and extends northeastwards within the Estate to an area AONB, a landscape of high sensitivity and given special protection in planning policy. just beyond the footbridge near Photo Viewpoint 5. In the southeast the ZVI extends up to the hedgerow running on the southeastern side of the access road to the Estate, although in some places the ZVI extent is contained 1.1.6. This Statement is accompanied by a proposed hard and soft landscape layout plan, a materials image board and further by the boundary hedgerow adjacent to the Site (see Photo Viewpoint 4). To the south, southwest and west a management statement (see drawings 822-SW-01, 822-IM-01 and 822-MS-01). the ZVI extends up to the hedgerow boundary on the opposite side of Woolton Hill Road. To the northwest the ZVI tapers towards the property Burley Moor. 1.2. The Approach/ Methodology 2.3.2. Figure 1 opposite shows Public Rights of Way (PRoW) within the ZVI. PRoW FP6 East Woodhay runs through 1.2.1. The approach to the production of the Statement has involved the following steps: the Estate, commencing at the entrance off Woolton Hill Road. PRoW FP6 runs along the outer edge of the Site’s • Recording and analysis of the existing landscape elements (physical features), landscape character and visual hedgerow boundary to cross the same field (around Photo Viewpoint 5) that the Site is located within. After which amenity associated with the Site and surrounding area through desk based study and field appraisal; it heads northwards and out of the ZVI. • Appreciation of the nature, form and scale of the Proposed Development in its revised location, having 2.3.3. PRoW BW8 East Woodhay also joins Woolton Hill Road at the edge of the outer limit of the ZVI to the west. As regard to the landscape and visual context; the bridleway continues southwestwards there are not likely to be any views of the Site due to screening from • Identification and evaluation of the sensitivity of the existing landscape and visual receptors likely to be intervening vegetation. affected by the proposed development; 2.3.4. There are no other PRoW within the ZVI. • A discussion and comparison of the levels of effect likely to result from implementation of the Proposed Development in the revised location, when compared to that of the approved; 2.4. Enclosure and Openness • Identification of mitigation and enhancement measures appropriate to the revised location and its effects on 2.4.1. In general the surrounding landscape is well vegetated and due to the relatively flat topography and enclosure the receiving landscape. created by a strong network of hedgerows, trees and copses, views are often localised and short to medium range 1.2.2. The Site was visited during October 2018 and February 2019 and the weather was dry and overcast. in nature. This is seen around the Site particularly in relation to its southeastern, southern and western boundaries. Representative photographs are taken from the position where the proposal is likely to be most visible where 2.4.2. On occasion, the landscape opens out to afford more distant views to the escarpment in the south. This is seen to many similar viewpoints were available. The photographs demonstrate the potential extent of the development’s the northeast of the Site (around Photo Viewpoint 5) where there is a more open, parkland feel to the landscape. visual envelope. Here longer distance views to the escarpment at Combe Hill around Woodhay Down are afforded, particularly 1.2.3. Photographs were taken with a Nikon D3400 digital SLR camera with a focal length set to 32mm and a during winter months when intervening vegetative cover is reduced. multiplication factor to give the equivalent of 50mm on a 35mm film SLR. They replicate a normal eye level view at 1.6 meters above ground level when printed at 614 dpi and viewed at 340mm from the image. They are 2.5. Landform, Topography, Soils and Drainage presented at a smaller size in this report for convenience. 2.5.1. The topography of the Site is relatively flat lying at around 116m AOD. The land descends very gently north eastwards towards Burley House at around 113 AOD and ascends gently to the north to around 122-5m AOD

INDIGO within the Burley Estate. To the south and southwest the land continues at the same level up to a distance of approximately 3km to Fullers Lane, then starts to form an escarpment that rises to 287m AOD around Combe Hill and Woodhay Down. KEY

2.5.2. Soilscape across the site is identified as slowly INDIGO Application Site permeable, seasonally wet, slightly acid but with base-rich loamy and clayey soils.1 A ditch runs along Estimated Zone of Visual the northwest boundary, an indicator of drainage BURLEY MOOR Influence WOOLTON HOUSE STUD management that responds to the soilscape and INDIGO 1 topography Protectof the open Site. views Viewpoint locations from within the Estate KEY 2.6. Vegetation and Land Use/ Management Application SiteFP East Woodhay 7a BURLEY MOOR FARM Rights of Way BURLEY MOOR 2.6.1. The Site itself and neighbouringWOOLTON field HOUSE consists STUD of Footpath (FP) or Bridleway Protect open views Lodges and dwellings located FP East Woodhay 6 KEY (BW) reference number pasturelandfrom within the which Estate is grazed by sheep. Apart from adjacent to Woolton Hill Road BURLEY the northeast boundary, the boundaries consist of Application Site Footpath FP East WoodhayBURLEY 7a MOOR established mature native hedgerows that are well BURLEY MOOR FARM WOOLTON HOUSE STUD Rights of Way maintained and managed. These add a sense of Lodges and dwellings located WOOLTON FP East Woodhay 6 Footpath (FP) or Bridleway enclosure to the Site. There is no physical boundary adjacent to(BW) Woolton reference Hill Road number 5 Bridleway to the northeast of the Site. Here theBURLEY grassland HILL ROAD FP East Woodhay 7a continues to form part of a larger field that connectsRights of Way Footpath BURLEY MOOR FARM with pastureland within the wider estate to the west Consider visual amenity of Footpath (FP) or Bridleway FP East Woodhay 6 of Burley House and the Woolton Stud. FP East Woodhay 6 Protect visual amenity of users of PRoW - protect (BW) reference number neighbouring property and enhance distant views Bridleway to southwest towards BURLEY Combe Hill escarpment 2.6.2. In addition to the enclosure created by the hedgerows (AONB objective) Footpath 2 there are a number of mature hedgerow trees within Consider visual amenity of the hedgerow boundaries that filter views into the Protect visual amenity of users of PRoW - protect neighbouring property and enhance distant views FP East Woodhay 6 Bridleway to southwest towards Site and these are identified on Figure 2 opposite. Combe Hill escarpment INDIGO Existing hedgerow(AONB objective) gappy in places - reinforce BW East Woodhay 8 Existing gated access 4 FP East Woodhay 6 1 WOOLTON HILL ROAD FIG. 1 - AERIAL Existing hedgerow gappy in places - reinforce KEY Existing gated access BW East Woodhay 8 Application Site

WOOLTON HILL ROAD 3 Estimated Zone of Visual Retain all existing trees on site boundary and BURLEY MOOR 0 20 40 60 80 100m protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to Influence BW East Woodhay 8 WOOLTON HOUSE STUD Maintain and manage existing hedgerow retain sense of enclosure and protect visual Metres Scale 1:2,000 amenity of users of PRoW to protect rural character and visual 1 Viewpoint locations © Getmapping plc 2019 amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road NORTH LODGE FP East Woodhay 7a Retain all existing trees on site boundary and NORTH BURLEY MOOR FARM protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to Rights of Way Maintain and manage existing hedgerow retain sense of enclosure and protect visual to protect rural character and visual amenity of users of PRoW Footpath (FP) or Bridleway DRAFT 2019-03-05 amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road FP East Woodhay 6 (BW) reference number 0 BURLEY 20 40 60 80 100m - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS Metres Scale 1:2,000 rev description date by chk NORTH LODGE Footpath © Getmapping plc 2019 project BURLEY ESTATE SECURITY LODGE WOOLTON BURLEY ESTATE 5 Bridleway 0 20 40 60 80 100m NORTH LODGE client Metres Scale 1:2,000 BURLEY ESTATE NORTH LODGE WOOLTON HOUSE HILL ROAD 1 www.magic.gov.uk DRAFT© Getmapping plc 2019-03-05 2019 drawing title AERIAL Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newbury - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 FP East Woodhay 6 rev description NORTHdate by chk drawing number revision status scale Landscape StatementBURLEY ESTATE March 2019 822-A-02 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3 Copyright © 2019LODGE Indigo Landscape Architects. All Rights Reserved project Page 4 DRAFTBURLEY 2019-03-05 ESTATE SECURITY LODGE WOOLTON HOUSE TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK 2 client I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS rev descriptionBURLEY ESTATE date by chk BURLEY ESTATE LODGE project drawing title BURLEY ESTATESITE ANALYSIS SECURITY LODGE WOOLTON HOUSE client drawing number revision status scale BW East Woodhay 8 4 BURLEY ESTATE822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3 drawing title 1 TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK SITE ANALYSISI N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D

drawing number revision status scale 822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3

TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK 3 I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D

0 20 40 60 80 100m Metres Scale 1:2,000 © Getmapping plc 2019

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project BURLEY ESTATE SECURITY LODGE BURLEY ESTATE LODGE client BURLEY ESTATE WOOLTON HOUSE drawing title AERIAL

drawing number revision status scale 822-A-02 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3

TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

INDIGO 2.6.3. Private estates with parkland (such as Burley) with formal designed parkland landscapes, and remnants of historic parkland are common within the area, as seen at Highclere and Woolton House.

Protect open views KEY 2.7. Access/ Movement from within the Estate INDIGO Application Site 2.7.1. The tranquillity of the Site and surrounding area is BURLEY MOOR affected by a steady flow of traffic using Woolton Hill WOOLTON HOUSE STUD Lodges and dwellings located Road (connecting the small settlements of Woolton Hill adjacent to Woolton Hill Road and Ball Hill) and service vehicles accessing the estate. INDIGO Protect open views FP East Woodhay 7a Rights of Way 2.7.2. The service vehiclesfrom within access the Estate the Estate via security gates BURLEYKEY MOOR FARM Footpath (FP) or Bridleway off Woolton Hill Road, just outside the southern corner Application Site FP East Woodhay 6 of the Site. The vehicles continue along a tarmacked (BW) reference number BURLEY MOOR BURLEY driveway that runs parallel to theWOOLTON Site’s HOUSEsoutheastern STUD Protect open views KEY Lodges and dwellings located Footpath boundaryfrom withintowards the Estate the main house. adjacent to Woolton Hill Road Application Site Consider visual amenity of Protect visual amenity of users of PRoW - protect 2.7.3. In addition to vehicle movement, the area around the Site and enhance distant views Bridleway FP East WoodhayBURLEY 7a MOOR Rights of Way neighbouring property BURLEY MOOR FARM is frequented by walkers usingWOOLTON the HOUSE local STUD PRoW network to southwest towards Lodges and dwellings located Combe Hill escarpment Footpath (FP) or Bridleway (AONB objective) and the nature of their views is described further in FP East Woodhay 6 adjacent to(BW) Woolton reference Hill Road number Section 6. BURLEY FP East Woodhay 6 FP East Woodhay 7a Rights of Way Footpath BURLEY MOOR FARM 2.8. Settlement Patterns and Heritage Consider visual amenity of FP East Woodhay 6 Footpath (FP) or Bridleway Existing hedgerow gappy users of PRoW - protect in places - reinforce Protect visual amenity of (BW) reference number Existing gated access neighbouring property and enhance distant views 2.8.1. Settlement within the area is quite dispersed with Bridleway to southwest towards BURLEY Combe Hill escarpment settlements of varying sizes, with development extending (AONB objective) Footpath out from villages along the lanes and roads. WOOLTON HILL ROAD Consider visual amenity of Protect visual amenity of users of PRoW - protect neighbouring property and enhance distant views 2.8.2.FP East The Woodhay area 6 is rich in cultural heritage particularly historic Bridleway to southwest towards BW East Woodhay 8 Combe Hill escarpment parkland, however the Burley Estate has no historic Existing hedgerow(AONB objective) gappy parkland designation and the Site’s ZVI does not extend in places - reinforce Existing gated accessto others in the surrounding area. There are Listed Retain all existing trees on site boundary and FP East Woodhay Buildings6 shown on Figure 3 however these are alsoINDIGO protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to WOOLTON HILL ROAD outside the ZVI. Maintain and manage existing hedgerow retain sense of enclosure and protect visual to protect rural character and visual amenity of users of PRoW Existing hedgerow gappy amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road in places - reinforce Existing gated access BW East Woodhay 8 FIG. 2 - SITE ANALYSIS

WOOLTON HILL ROAD Protect open views from within the Estate KEY Retain all existing trees on site boundary and 0 20 40 60 80 100m protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to Application Site BW East Woodhay 8 retain sense of enclosure and protect visual Metres Scale 1:2,000 Maintain and manage existing hedgerow NORTH LODGE BURLEY MOOR to protect rural character and visual amenity of users of PRoW WOOLTON HOUSE STUD © Getmapping plc 2019 amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road Lodges and dwellings located adjacent to Woolton Hill Road Retain all existing trees on site boundary and NORTH protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to Maintain and manage existing hedgerow retain sense of enclosure and protect visual FP East Woodhay 7a amenity of users of PRoW BURLEY MOOR FARM to protect rural character and visual Rights of Way DRAFT 2019-03-05 amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road Footpath (FP) or Bridleway 0 20 40 60 80 100m FP East Woodhay 6 - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS (BW) reference number Metres Scale 1:2,000 rev description date by chk NORTH LODGE BURLEY © Getmapping plc 2019 BURLEY ESTATE LODGE project Footpath BURLEY ESTATE SECURITY LODGE WOOLTON HOUSE Consider visual amenity of 0 20 40 60 80 100m NORTH client users of PRoW - protect Protect visual amenity of Metres Scale 1:2,000 BURLEY ESTATE neighbouring property and enhance distant views NORTH LODGE Bridleway to southwest towards DRAFT© Getmapping plc 2019-03-05 2019 drawing title Combe Hill escarpment SITE ANALYSIS (AONB objective) Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newbury - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 rev description NORTHdate by chk drawing number revision status scale Landscape StatementBURLEY ESTATE March 2019 822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3 Copyright © 2019LODGE Indigo Landscape Architects. All Rights Reserved project Page 5 FP East Woodhay 6 DRAFTBURLEY 2019-03-05 ESTATE SECURITY LODGE WOOLTON HOUSE TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK client I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D Existing hedgerow gappy - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS in places - reinforce BURLEY ESTATE Existing gated access rev description date by chk BURLEY ESTATE LODGE project drawing title BURLEY ESTATESITE ANALYSIS SECURITY LODGE WOOLTON HILL ROAD WOOLTON HOUSE client drawing number revision status scale BURLEY ESTATE822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3 BW East Woodhay 8 drawing title TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK SITE ANALYSISI N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D

drawing number revision status scale Retain all existing trees on site boundary and 822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3 protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to Maintain and manage existing hedgerow retain sense of enclosure and protect visual TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK to protect rural character and visual amenity of users of PRoW I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road

0 20 40 60 80 100m Metres Scale 1:2,000 NORTH LODGE © Getmapping plc 2019

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drawing title SITE ANALYSIS

drawing number revision status scale 822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3

TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

INDIGO 3 PLANNING POLICY AND LANDSCAPE DESIGNATIONS

3.1. Introduction

3.1.1. The following section provides a short summary of KEY: relevant planning policy and planning history of the INDIGO Application Site Site.

3.1.2. The Site is located outside any Settlement Policy North Wessex Downs AONB; Boundary, therefore Countryside Policies apply. The INDIGO Site is located within Lowland Mosaic following national, regional and local policies are Protect open views KEY Character Type, and 8E: Highclere relevant to this application. from within the Estate Lowlands & Heath Character Area Application Site

TheBURLEY MOORNational Planning Policy Framework WOOLTON HOUSE STUD Conservation area (NPPF) 24th July 2018 Lodges and dwellings located KEY: adjacent to Woolton Hill Road • Section 2. Achieving Sustainable Development; Application Site Listed building FP East Woodhay 7a • Section 11. Making effective use of land; BURLEY MOOR FARM Rights of Way • Section 12. Achieving well-designed places; Footpath (FP) or Bridleway FP East Woodhay 6 North Wessex Downs AONB; Source: Magic.defra.gov.uk, Historic England and (BW) reference number Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council • Section 14. Meeting the challenge of climate BURLEY Site is located within Lowland Mosaic change, flooding and coastal change; Footpath Character Type, and 8E: Highclere Lowlands & Heath Character Area • Section 15. Conserving and enhancing the natural Consider visual amenity of environment; Protect visual amenity of users of PRoW - protect neighbouring property and enhance distant views Bridleway to southwest towards Conservation area • Section 16. Conserving and enhancing the historic Combe Hill escarpment environment. (AONB objective) Listed building FP East Woodhay 6 INDIGO Existing hedgerow gappy Source: Magic.defra.gov.uk, Historic England and in places - reinforce Existing gated access Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council

FIG. 3 - DESIGNATIONSWOOLTON HILL ROAD KEY: BW East Woodhay 8 Application Site

0 50 100 150 200 250m Retain all existing trees on site boundary and North Wessex Downs AONB; protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to Metres Scale 1:5,000 Maintain and manage existing hedgerowSite is located within Lowland Mosaic retain sense of enclosure and protect visual Ordnance Survey © Crown Copyright 2015. to protect rural character and visual amenity of users of PRoW All rights reserved. Licence number 100022432. amenity of users of Woolton HillCharacter Road Type, and 8E: Highclere Lowlands & Heath Character Area NORTH Conservation area DRAFT 2019-03-05 0 20 40 60 80 100m - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS Metres Scale 1:2,000 rev description date by chk NORTH LODGE Listed building © Getmapping plc 2019 project 0 50 100 150 200 250m BURLEY ESTATE SECURITY LODGE NORTH Source: Magic.defra.gov.uk, Historic England and Metres Scale 1:5,000 client Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Ordnance Survey © Crown Copyright 2015. BURLEY ESTATE All rights reserved. Licence number 100022432. DRAFT 2019-03-05 drawing title DESIGNATIONS Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newbury - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 rev description date by chk NORTH drawing number revision status scale Landscape Statement BURLEY ESTATE March 2019 822-A-03 - PLANNING 1:5000@A3 Copyright © 2019 Indigo Landscape Architects. All Rights Reserved LODGE project Page 6 BURLEY ESTATE SECURITY LODGE DRAFT 2019-03-05 WOOLTON HOUSE TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK client - FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FSI N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D BURLEY ESTATE rev description date by chk

drawing title project SITE ANALYSIS BURLEY ESTATE SECURITY LODGE

drawing number revision status clientscale 822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3BURLEY ESTATE

drawing title TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M IDESIGNATIONS T E D drawing number revision status scale 822-A-03 - PLANNING 1:5000@A3

TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D 0 50 100 150 200 250m

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drawing number revision status scale 822-A-03 - PLANNING 1:5000@A3

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Basingstoke and Deane Local Plan 2011-2029 b) hard landscaping detailing and materials sympathetic to the rural setting • Policy SD1 - Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development; c) confirmation that the amended vehicle access location can be constructed without significant adverse impacts on the existing landscape features such as hedgerow and trees, and are to the satisfaction of the BDBC Tree team. • Policy EM4 - Biodiversity, Geodiversity and Nature Conservation; The amended plans show some limited indicative planting along the southwestern site boundary; however a more • Policy EM5 - Green Infrastricture (GI); detailed and more comprehensive landscape proposal will be required in order to mitigate adverse impacts on • Policy EM10 - Delivering High Quality Development; and surrounding landscape character and visual amenity and integrate the development sympathetically into the existing • Policy EM1 - Landscape. landscape setting in this part of the AONB. This should also incorporate some planting that will eventually establish into larger scale parkland trees’. Policy EM1 - Landscape 3.2.3. The Landscape Figures accompanying this Statement and the Arboriultural report provided with this applicaiton • This policy requires development to be sympathetic to the character and visual quality of the area concerned. address points a,b & c above. It requires development to respect, enhance and not be detrimental to the character or visual amenity of the landscape likely to be affected, paying particular regard to: 3.3. Landscape Designations “a) The particular qualities identified within the council’s landscape character assessment and any subsequent 3.3.1. Other than the Site’s location within the North Wessex Downs AONB (described in more detail below) there updates or relevant guidance; are no other designations affecting the Site or with shared intervisibility. There are a number of Listed Buildings b) The visual amenity and scenic quality; shown on Figure 3 and the edge of a Conservation Area, however these are all located outside the ZVI.

c) The setting of a settlement, including important views to, across, within and out of settlements; 3.4. North Wessex Downs AONB d) The local character of buildings and settlements, including important open areas; 3.4.1. The Site is located within the North Wessex Downs AONB which is a statutory consultee in the planning e) Trees, ancient woodland, hedgerows, water features such as rivers and other landscape features and their decision making process. Potential landscape and visual effects on the AONB, its character or Special Qualities function as ecological networks; are a material consideration in the planning process. f) Intrinsically dark landscapes; 3.4.2. The National Planning Policy Framework gives the highest level of protection to the overall diversity of landscape g) Historic landscapes, parks and gardens and features; and and scenic beauty of an AONB. The primary purpose of the AONB designation is to conserve and enhance the h) The character of the borough’s rivers and tributaries, including the River Loddon and Test, which should be areas natural beauty. safeguarded.” 3.4.3. The work of the North Wessex Downs AONB team is led by the AONB Management Plan. The current • The policy sets out that development proposals must also respect the sense of place, sense of tranquillity Management Plan 2014-2019 presents objectives and policies to help conserve and enhance this landscape. The or remoteness, and the quiet enjoyment of the landscape from Public Rights of Way (PRoW). Development Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000 requires local authorities to prepare an AONB Management proposals will not be accepted unless they maintain the integrity of existing settlements and prevent their Plan and review it every five years. coalescence. Where appropriate, proposals will be required to include a comprehensive landscaping scheme to ensure that the development would successfully integrate with the landscape and surroundings. 3.4.4. The Management Plan identifies the Special Qualities and Key Issues associated with the North Wessex Downs AONB Landscape. Full details of which are provided via an extract within Appendix 1. Of the Special Qualities • The policy also states that the “assessment of character and visual quality and the provision of a landscaping identified, the following is relevant to this assessment: scheme should be proportionate to the scale and nature of the development proposed.” ‘The Lowland Mosaic, curving around Newbury and the lower Kennet valley has a varied geology of clays, silts and 3.1.3. The Site is located within the North Wessex Downs AONB, further details of which are set out below. sands giving rise to a diverse mix of soils and, in turn, a mosaic of ancient semi-natural woodlands, plantations, remnant heathland and more open farmland areas where sunken lanes heighten the sense of seclusion’. 3.2. Relevant Planning History 3.4.5. The Lowland Mosaic Special Quality is also identified as a North Wessex Downs AONB Landscape Character 3.2.1. The existing planning consent (dated 6th February 2018) was subject to the requirement to locate the Security Type (LCT) . The Site is located within the Lowland Mosaic LCT which is subdivided into Areas and the Site is Lodge further within the Estate to the northeast but still within the Site boundary. This was in order to mitigate within Character Area 8E: ‘Highclere Lowlands and Heath’. An extract of the relevant pages is provided within against the potential for the Security Lodge to be seen by users of Woolton Hill Road as it was considered that Appendix 1. the presence of the lodge would detract from the ‘country lane character of Woolton Hill Road and also from the wider landscape character.’ 3.4.6. The potential landscape and visual effects of the proposed revised location in relation to the AONB Special Qualities, Key issues and Character Areas are discussed in Section 5 of this Statement. 3.2.2. The following comments were received from the Basingstoke and Deane Council’s Landscape Team in relation to the previously approved layout: 3.4.7. This Statement has also had regard to the Parish of East Woodhay Village Design Statement for Woolton Hill and the Hamlets (2005).2 ‘In principle this would be acceptable in landscape terms, subject to

a) the submission of sensitively designed soft landscape proposals, 2 https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/content/page/39595/East%20Woodhay%20Design%20Statement.pdf

3.5. Published Character Appraisals/ Existing Character Assessments

3.5.1. At a national level the Site is located within the Thames Basin Heaths National Character Area.3 An extract of this document and the Area’s key characteristics are contained within Appendix 2.

3.5.2. At a regional and local level the Hampshire Downs Integrated Character Assessment applies4. The Site is located in Character Area 2A: Highclere Chase. An extract of this document and the Area’s key characteristics is contained within Appendix 3.

3.6. Cultural Heritage

3.6.1. As set out above a number of Listed Buildings and a Conservation Area are found within the surrounding area, however none of these are wihtin the ZVI of the Security Lodge.

3.6.1. The nearest heritage assets are the Grade 11 Listed Woolton House located approximately 200m to the south and Hitchens5 located approximately 400m to the southeast with which there is no shared intervisibility due to the nature of the topography and dense intervening vegetation (see Figure 3). There are no cultural heritage features within the Site or the wider Estate.

3 www.naturalengland.org.uk: 129 -Thames Basin Heaths NCA 4 https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvironment/environment/landscape/integratedcharacterassessment 5 https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/map-search

4 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

4.1. Introduction 4.2. Landscape Proposals

4.1.1. Drawing 822-SW-01 (extract shown in Figure 4 overleaf) shows the proposed revised location of the Security 4.2.1. The landscape proposals are intended to assimilate the development with its surrounding context, taking into Lodge together with associated access, parking and hard and soft landscape details. the account the character of the area (including visual character) and its high landscape sensitivity being within the North Wessex Downs AONB. 4.1.2. The appearance, scale and form of the Security Lodge will remain as per the approval. Further details of which are provided with this application. 4.2.2. The Special Qualities, identified Key Characteristics and objectives of the AONB also inform the revised location and its associated landscape layout. 4.1.3. As described in Section 3 the previous application (see Inset 1 below) was approved in principal subject to certain landscape requirements, i.e 4.2.3. The findings of the Site analysis are recorded on Figure 2 and these also inform the revised location of the Security Lodge and associated hard and soft landscaping. • ‘the submission of sensitively designed soft landscape proposals, • hard landscaping detailing and materials sympathetic to the rural setting, 4.2.4. The objectives of the landscape design layout are to: • confirmation that the amended vehicle access location can be constructed without significant adverse impacts on • Respond to AONB objectives, Special Qualities and Key Characteristics; the existing landscape features such as hedgerow and trees, and are to the satisfaction of the BDBC Tree team.’ • Assimilate the lodge, access and parking area with its surroundings i.e. respond to the existing landscape pattern. The layout and revised location make the most of the high degree of enclosure around the south 4.1.4. The following documents accompany this Statement and application in order to address points one and two of REV: DATE: AMENDMENTS: DRAWN: CHECKED: east and southwest boundaries; these requirements: # 04.05.16 First Issue GB SS A 22.11.16 Parking added GB SS B 25.11.16 Site entrance modified GB AD • Protect longer distant views to the escarpment in the south; • Drawing 822-IM-01: Hard and soft landscape materials - precedent imageC board.30.11.16 Site entrance modified GB AD D 01.12.16 Boundary updated GB AD E 25.04.17 Lodge relocated GB AD • Protect the visual amenity of occupants of Burley Moor; • Drawing 822-SW-01: Detailed landscape proposals with planting schedules.F 10.07.17 Landscape info added GB AD G 21.08.17 Parking area modified GB AD H 04.10.17 Section lines removed GB SS • Protect visual amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road and maintain its rural character; • 822-MS-01: Management Statement. © The copyright of this drawing remains with Pro Vision Planning & Design and may not be reproduced in any form • Protect visual amenity of users of PRoW. without prior written consent.

4.1.5. An Arboricultural report is also provided with the application that identifies Dothe not scale Root from this Protectiondrawing. Areas (RPA’s) and includes details of a proposed construction method. The proposed landscapeAny discrepancies layout between this takes and any other account consultant's of this 4.2.5. A variety of native species are selected that are suited to the soilscape, Site conditions and estate/parkland drawings should be reported to the Architect immediately. The contractor must check all dimensions before commencing work report. on site and all discrepancies reported to the Architect. No setting. Larger stock sizes are proposed to provide immediate visual benefits and the hedgerows will be Woolton House Stud deviation from this drawing will be permitted without the prior consent of the Architect. maintained at higher heights than existing (around 2m). A Management Statement is also provided (822-MS-01).

162775

162750 INSET 1 - PREVIOUS APPROVED LAYOUT (Drawing by Pro Vision)

Burley

162725

162700

162675 C G

162650 116.3m Proposed Lodge

162625

Main entrance Application 162600 Site

162575Application Site

162550 Existing

Gate hedge

1.80

162525 ht Proposed Site Access N

162500

North Lodge

162475 Existing Gate Other Land Owned

162450 114.7m North Lodge CLIENT: Other Land Owned Mr N Gottesman Site Application Boundary 162425 Pond Site Application Boundary PROJECT: Other Land Owned

442300 442325 442350 442375 442400 442425 442450 442475 442500 442525 442550 442575 442600 442625 442650 442675 Other Land442700 Owned 442725 442750 116.3m Burley House, Woolton Hill, 0 25 50 75 100 1 0 3 5 7 10M Newbury Ordnance Survey, (c) Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. Licence number 100022432 Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newbury Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28

Existing Block Plan Landscape Statement Proposed Site Plan DRAWING: March 2019 1:2500 Copyright © 2019 Indigo1:500 Landscape Architects. All Rights Reserved Existing & Proposed Block & Site Plan Page 9

SCALE: Vary @ A3 DWG NO: 2070/PD01

DATE: May 16 REV: H

Grosvenor Court, Winchester Road, Ampfield, Winchester, Hants. SO51 9BD Ordnance Survey (c) Crown Copyright 2015. Tel: 01794 368 698 2 Old Bath Road, Newbury, Berks. RG14 1QL All rights reserved. Licence number 100022432 Tel: 01635 40184 INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

FIG. 4 - PROPOSED LAYOUT WITH REVISED INDIGO LOCATION OF SECURITY LODGE (NOT TO SCALE)

(Refer to 822-SW-01 for full drawing)

INDIGO

Double plant and gap up hedgerow. Maintain at taller height. 41 No. Acer campestre 11 No. Cornus sanguinea 41 No. Corylus avellana Trees 61 No. Crataegus monogyna Number Species Height Girth Specification 11 No.Ilex aquifolium Protect open views 2 No. Acer campestre 4.0-5.0m 14-16cm EHS :RB :Single staked KEY 11 No.Ligustrum vulgare from within the Estate 2 No. Alnus glutinosa 4.0-5.0m 14-16cm EHS :RB :Single staked Application Site 21 No.Prunus spinosa 1 No. Betula pendula 4.0-5.0m 14-16cm EHS :RB :Single staked 11 No.Rosa canina 1 No. Corylus avellana 1.5-1.8m - Multistem :RB 1 No. Prunus avium 3.5-4.0m 12-14cm HS :BR :Double staked BURLEY MOOR WOOLTON HOUSE STUD 2 No. Quercus robur 4.0-5.0m 14-16cm EHS :RB :Single staked Lodges and dwellings located Shrubs adjacent to Woolton Hill Road 1 No. Alnus glutinosa Number Species Specification 5 No. Cornus sanguinea 10L Pot 2 No. Corylus avellana 10L Pot FP East Woodhay 7a 1 No. Rosa arvensis 10L Pot BURLEY MOOR FARM Rights of Way 2 No. Cornus sanguinea 1 No.Rosa canina 1 No. Rosa canina 10L Pot WOOLTON HILL ROAD 2 No. Viburnum lantana 10L Pot FP East Woodhay 6 Footpath (FP) or Bridleway (BW) reference number 3 No. Cornus sanguinea 5 No. Viburnum opulus 10L Pot 1 No. Alnus glutinosa 1 No. Quercus robur BURLEY 1 No. Acer campestre Footpath KEY 2 No. Viburnum lantana Application site boundary Consider visual amenity of users of PRoW - protect Protect visual amenity of Existing offsite trees neighbouring property and enhance distant views Bridleway to southwest towards 1 No.Rosa arvensis Combe Hill escarpment Existing on site trees to be retained (AONB objective) 3 No. Viburnum opulus 1 No.Betula pendula Existing tree Root Protection Area (RPA) (refer to Arboricultural survey for more detail)

2 No. Corylus avellana Existing hedge planting removed FP East Woodhay 6 1 No.Prunus avium Existing hedge planting retained

Existing hedgerow gappy 1 No. Corylus avellana Proposed tree planting in places - reinforce Existing gated access Proposed specimen shrub planting FP East Woodhay 6 2 No. Viburnum opulus Proposed native hedge planting WOOLTON HILL ROAD Maintain existing hedgerow at taller height to protect visual Existing and proposed grass amenity of users of road. Proposed reinforced permeable gravel surface with double sett edge in neutral colour (i.e. buff/grey) BW East Woodhay 8 Proposed permeable resin bound surface (i.e. buff/grey colour)

1 No. Quercus robur 0 5 10m

Retain all existing trees on site boundary and Metres SCALE 1:250 protect RPAs. Maintain existing hedgerow to © Getmapping plc 2019 Maintain and manage existing hedgerow retain sense of enclosure and protect visual to protect rural character and visual amenity of users of PRoW NORTH amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road 1 No. Acer campestre

- FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-13 MH/HC FS rev description date by chk WOOLTON HILL ROAD Existing hedgerow removed to project allow access and surveillance. BURLEY ESTATE SECURITY LODGE 0 20 40 60 80 100m client Metres Scale 1:2,000 Existing hedgerow retained, BURLEY ESTATE NORTH LODGE trimmed to 600mm height to © Getmapping plc 2019 Existing security gates. improve surveillance. drawing title DETAILED PLANTING PROPOSALS

drawing number revision status scale NORTH 822-SW-01 - PLANNING 1:250@A2

TEL. 01722 340140 [email protected] WWW.INDIGOLANDSCAPE.CO.UK DRAFT 2019-03-05 I N D I G O L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T S L I M I T E D

- FIRST ISSUE 2019-03-05 MH FS Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newburyrev description date by chk Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 BURLEY ESTATE Landscape Statement March 2019 LODGE project Copyright © 2019 Indigo Landscape Architects.BURLEY All ESTATE Rights ReservedSECURITY LODGE Page 10 WOOLTON HOUSE client BURLEY ESTATE

drawing title SITE ANALYSIS

drawing number revision status scale 822-A-01 - PLANNING 1:2000@A3

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5 LIKELY LANDSCAPE EFFECTS

5.1. Introduction

5.1.1. This section considers the landscape effects that are likely to arise as a result of the revised location of the 5.3.5. Neither location would influence settlement patterns, however the pattern of lodge style developments seen Security Lodge, taking into account any mitigation proposed. extending along Woolton Hill would be consistent with the revised location.

5.1.2. A comparison is made between the predicted landscape effects likely to occur at the revised location with those 5.3.6. By retaining the existing field boundaries and trees, the existing enclosure and landscape pattern created by likely to occur at the approved location. boundary features would be maintained. The proposed gapping up and additional hedgerow and tree planting would reinforce this characteristic. 5.1.3. The effect of the development on the landscape resource is analysed in terms of the effects on individual landscape receptors (considered in terms of Physical Influences, Influences of Human Activity, and Aesthetic and 5.4. Aesthetic and Perceptual Factors Perceptual Factors)6 and how these combine to have an effect on overall landscape character. 5.4.1. Aesthetic and perceptual factors include aspects of the landscape such as its Scale, Complexity, Degree of 5.1.4. The likely effects on the AONB Special Qualities and Character Types are also discussed including published Enclosure / Openness, Tranquillity, Wildness, Remoteness and Sense of Place. regional and local character appraisals. 5.4.2. The scale, complexity, wildness and sense of place would be likely to remain the same as that approved. The 5.2. Physical Influences effects on these elements would be minimal for both proposals.

5.2.1. The revised location is unlikely to cause any change to any drainage features, topography, geology or soils, 5.4.3. In terms of enclosure and openness these elements are likely to be less affected by the revised location than certainly none in landscape character terms over and above that already approved. the approved location. The revised location places the Lodge and parking area closer to the existing boundary hedgerows and other vertical structures such as the entrance gates and trees, thus benefitting from the enclosure 5.2.2. In terms of vegetation the revised location will necessitate the removal of a short stretch of hedgerow to form and not detracting from it. The approved scheme places the Lodge further northeastwards where the Site and the access point, however this would also have been the case for the approved location, where the removal surrounding landscape becomes more open in nature, with less enclosure. The approved scheme is therefore would have occurred further north along the access road leading to the main house. more likely to appear as a discordant new element as it would not benefit from the same degree of enclosure as the revised location. It may also be more likely to interrupt longer distant views to the escarpment (an identified 5.2.3. The revised location is partly within the RPA of a mature Ash tree. However the tree survey accompanying this AONB landscape characteristic) to the southwest (see Photo Viewpoint 05) application advises that this is acceptable development on the proviso that certain construction methods are applied. No other trees or their RPA’s will be affected by the proposal. 5.4.4. Both locations avoid the movement of vehicles (noise and disturbance) into the wider estate, the revised location more so as it would be located closer to the main entrance off Woolton Hill Road. 5.2.4. The proposed, revised location of the lodge would be closer to the existing trees and hedgerows and the more enclosed part of the Site. This would immediately help to assimilate the proposal within its landscape context. 5.5. Effects on AONB Special Qualities and Character Areas Instant enclosure, screening and filtering effects would be provided by the existing trees and hedgerows. In comparison, the approved location would not benefit from the same level of enclosure and screening from 5.5.1. This section discusses the potential effects of the proposals revised location on the Special Qualities and existing vegetation, having to place more reliance on mitigation planting to achieve this. character of the North Wessex Downs AONB, drawing a comparison with the approved location.

5.2.5. In addition to the retention of existing vegetation the application is also supported by a planting scheme that 5.5.2. The approved application placed the Security Lodge further northeast within the Estate based on the proposes substantial new planting with large stock sizes, thus providing additional and immediate visual and recommendations of the Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Team. This was to avoid the potential for the biodiversity benefits. proposed Security Lodge to detract from the rural character and visual amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road, a characteristic feature of this AONB. 5.3. Influences of Human Activity 5.5.3. Further analysis of the AONB Special Qualities and Character Types and Areas reveals additional Key 5.3.1. In terms of the influences of Human Activity, there are no designated or undesignated heritage assets on the Site. Characteristics and Key Issues that on balance would support the case for revising the location of the Security No Registered Parks and Gardens, Sites of Archaeological Importance, Scheduled Ancient Monuments or Listed Lodge. These Key Characteristics and Key Issues are summarised and discussed further below: Buildings fall within the Zone of Visual Influence of the proposal. Key characteristics 5.3.2. The level and type of land use/ land management would remain the same as that approved. The revised location • ‘The small-scale, intimate, landscape and areas of parkland estate contribute greatly to its high scenic quality’; would create less fragmentation of pasture land than the approved. • ‘The coherent character formed by the strong structure of woodlands, hedgerows and trees - creating a small 5.3.3. The building design and appearance would remain the same as that approved and would be in keeping with the scale, enclosed and secretive landscape’; local vernacular. • ‘Strong visual and cultural associations with the chalk escarpment to the south’….’ The maintenance of uninterrupted views is recommended’; 5.3.4. Any cultural associations would not change as a result of the revised location. • ‘One of the most densely inhabited areas of the North Wessex Downs, with large manor houses, a network of 6 Refer to Glossary attached for definitions of terms. Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newbury Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 Landscape Statement March 2019 Copyright © 2019 Indigo Landscape Architects. All Rights Reserved Page 11 INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

hamlets, and lines of houses and villages that have grown along the network of lanes’; 5.6.8. Overall the revised location would respect and would not be likely to detract from the Special Quality and key • ‘The network of ancient semi-natural woodland, connecting hedgerows, areas of parkland, including wood pasture characteristics of the Lowland Mosaic Landscape. and veteran trees, create considerable ecological interest’; 5.7. Other Published Appraisals • ‘Strong sense of time depth’. National Character Area 129, Thames Basin Heaths Key issues 5.7.1. Whilst the National Character Area provides some insight in to the landscape around the Site, it does however • ‘To conserve and enhance the small-scale, secluded and rural character of the area, including the fragile lowland cover a large area of the countryside and it evident that many of the aspects identified within the NCA text are heaths’; not applicable to the Site or the limited study area defined by the ZVI of the proposed development. • ‘Loss of hedgerow boundaries and particularly mature hedgerow trees, plus poor management of remaining 5.7.2. The North Wessex Downs AONB however applies to 17 percent of the total NCA area and its relationship hedgerows by flailing so that hedgerow trees are often no longer present’; with the Site is discussed in detail in the preceding paragraphs. • ‘Manage and retain hedgerows and historic field patterns’; Hampshire Downs Integrated Character Assessment • ‘Loss of tranquillity’; 5.7.3. At a local level the Site is located in Character Area (CA) 2A: ‘Highclere Chase’ of The Hampshire Downs • ‘Alteration to the character and quality of historic parkland landscapes due to building change resulting in Integrated Character Assessment. The key characteristics identified for this CA (see Appendix 3) are very development of car parks or ornamental planting beds’; similar to those identified for the AONB Character Area 8E: ‘Highclere Lowlands and Heath’ which are already discussed in the preceding paragraphs relating to the AONB. They are therefore not discussed any further here. • ‘Ensure that all development in or affecting the setting of the AONB conserves and enhances the character, qualities and heritage of the North Wessex Downs landscape’. 5.8. Effects on Overall Landscape Character

5.6. Analysis of the Potential Effects on AONB Key Characteristics and Issues 5.8.1. The revised location would on balance be likely to exert slightly less effect on landscape character than that of the approved scheme. The proposed revised location adjacent to the entrance off Woolton Hill Road is in 5.6.1. The revised proposal locates the Security Lodge closer to the southeast corner of the Site where there is a keeping with the pattern of development seen along Woolton Hill Road (as shown on Figure 2). greater level of physical enclosure from existing trees and hedgerows. This would assimilate the proposal with its landscape context and protect both the more open areas to the northeast from development and the ‘small 5.8.2. It is traditional and not uncommon or uncharacteristic for Security Lodges to be seen from the road and located scale and intimate qualities’ of the AONB. close to the entrance. In this case only the roof of the Security Lodge would be glimpsed from the road.

5.6.2. By placing the approved scheme further northeastwards within the Site and the Estate it is likely that it would 5.8.3. The revised proposal would automatically be seen against a backdrop of vertical elements and boundary features have detracted from the ‘strong visual association with the chalk escarpment’. In comparison with the revised such that it would be less noticeable and not likely to detract from the open character experienced in views location, it is likely that the approved scheme would have appeared as a more prominent element within long from the northeast, including views to the escarpment. distance views to the escarpment (see Photo Viewpoint 05).

5.6.3. By locating the Security Lodge in the southeast corner of the field, near the Estate boundary and adjacent to the road, the integrity, openness and quality of the landscape pattern and parkland landscape towards the north and northeast is protected.

5.6.4. The revised proposal would locate the Security Lodge closer to Woolton Hill Road and it is likely that, before mitigation is in place or established, the roof of the Security Lodge would be visible to users of Woolton Hill Road and detract slightly from the rural character of the area (as experienced from the road). However it is not uncharacteristic or uncommon for Security Lodges to be seen at the entrance to Estates and in this case only the roof would be partially visible from Woolton Hill Road.

5.6.5. As the proposed mitigation planting establishes and the hedgerows are maintained at a taller height, the roof of the Security Lodge would most likely be screened from view.

5.6.6. Also, the location adjacent to Woolton Hill Road would limit the movement of vehicles within the wider Estate, thereby protecting tranquillity within the wider estate and AONB.

5.6.7. The location adjacent to Woolton Hill Road would be in keeping with the pattern of development seen along Woolton Hill Road, where lodges are traditionally located at the entrance to an Estate and partially visible (see Figure 2).

6 LIKELY VISUAL EFFECTS

6.1. Introduction

6.1.1. This section describes, evaluates and compares the likely visual effects that would arise as a result of the proposed development’s revised location when compared to the approved location.

6.1.2. Representative viewpoints are taken at locations around the Site and these are shown on the following pages. The photographs are accompanied by a description of the existing view and the likely change caused by the proposed revised location when compared to that of the approved.

6.1.3. The analysis takes account of the Basingstoke & Deane Landscape Officers’ advice and concerns in relation to the approved application, such as the visual amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road, PRoW and the occupants of the residential property at Burley Moor.

6.1.4. As described in Section 2, the ZVI is very limited in extent due to the nature of the topography, a well established network of mature trees and well maintained hedgerows.

6.1.5. A 360 panoramic view (Photo Viewpoint 1) is taken from within the site in order to demonstrate the surrounding context.

6.1.6. The visual impact would vary throughout the life of the building, from the construction stage through to when the proposed landscape mitigation measures have matured. Overall the visual impact is likely to be less in the revised location as it benefits from a higher level of instant screening and enclosure from existing trees and hedgerows.

PHOTO VIEWPOINTS

Woolton Hill Road Continued... 01b

The Site

Photograph 01a - summer

Glimpse of Burley Moor Approximate Estate drive northeastern Site boundary Continued... 01a Continued... 01c

The Site

Photograph 01b - summer

PHOTO VIEWPOINTS

Gates Estate drive Continued... 01a Continued... 01b

The Site Photograph 01c - summer

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 1 - PANORAMIC 360 VIEW TAKEN FROM WITHIN THE SITE

A panoramic 360 degree view taken from within the Site at the proposed, revised location of the Security Lodge. This view is taken to illustrate the Site’s visual context, ZVI and degree of enclosure.

Looking northeastwards, the lack of a boundary to the Site is evident as is the long rectangular nature of the field that becomes more open in nature, connecting visually to the wider parkland landscape of the Burley Estate.

Mature native hedgerows and trees along the Site’s other boundaries are evident as is the sense of enclosure that they create. Particularly around the southeastern and southern corner of the Site where the entrance gates, a mature ash tree, neighbouring hedgerow and copse add extra enclosure. These elements all serve to limit the ZVI and the potential for views of the proposal along Woolton Hill Road to the South.

To the northwest, the property Burley Moor is partially visible across intervening fields. The views are heavily filtered by the intervening vegetation such as the Site’s boundary hedgerow and trees. As one progresses further northeastwards within the Site intervisibility with the property Burly Moor increases. The revised location for the lodge would therefore represent a better location in terms of protecting the visual amenity of residents of Burley Moor.

From Burley Moor the revised location would also ensure that the proposal is seen in association with other taller elements such as the security gates and trees around the entrance. It would therefore be less prominent and noticeable in views than its approved location further to the northeast. In addition the mitigation planting proposed to this boundary will with time afford further protection to their visual amenity.

PHOTO VIEWPOINTS

The Site

Woolton Hill Road

Photograph 02 - summer

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 2

This view is taken from the junction of PRoW 8 (Bridleway) and Woolton Hill Road and looks in an easterly direction along Woolton Hill Road towards the Site. The ground level of the Site itself is entirely screened from view by the mature well maintained hedgerow that forms its southwestern boundary. Key characteristics of the AONB ‘Highclere’ Character Area such as the grass verge, ditches and enclosure created by hedgerows and trees are evident within this view.

Before mitigation planting establishes and before the maintained height of the hedgerow is increased the roof of the security lodge (in its revised location) is likely to be partially visible within this view, seen against the backdrop of trees and hedgerow along and near the southwest boundary of the Site.

The winter photograph also reveals that the roof of the approved scheme would be likely to be partially visible too, even with its location further northeast within the Site.

It is unlikely that the proposal will detract from the rural character of this Road as once mitigation planting has established it will most likely be screened from view or only glimpsed fleetingly. Also it is not uncharacteristic and entirely in keeping with tradition for lodges or dwellings to be located by the roadside entrance as is evidenced at Burley Moor to the northwest, North Lodge and the Burley Estate Lodge to the southeast (see Figure 2).

Photograph 02 - winter

PHOTO VIEWPOINTS

The Site

Woolton Hill Road Photograph 03 - summer

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 3

A view taken from Woolton Hill Road close to the entrance to the Estate. The view looks northwards towards the Site and is representative of the views experienced by car drivers as there is no PRoW at this point. Views are likely to be fleeting and transitory.

As with Photo Viewpoint 2 the ground level of the Site is entirely screened from view by the Site’s boundary hedgerow.

PRoW FP6 runs alongside the hedgerow passing through the pedestrian side gate seen in the view. Where the path turns Glimpse of into the Estate, it is evident that due to the height of the Sites’ boundary hedgerow, and the path being located directly Burley Moor beside it, that walkers would not be likely to see any of the revised proposal at this point.

From the actual viewpoint location, before mitigation planting establishes and the maintained height of the hedgerow is increased, the roof of the Security Lodge (in its proposed revised location) is likely to be partially visible within this view, seen behind the piers and light of the entrance gate, hedgerow and trees.

Once the tree planting along the boundary has established and the hedge has reached a greater maintained height (approximately 2m) it is unlikely that the Security Lodge will be visible in this view, even during winter months this would be likely to remain the same. It is therefore unlikely that the proposal would detract from the rural character of this lane and visual amenity of its users.

As observed at Photo Viewpoint 2, the location of the Security Lodge adjacent to the entrance would also be in keeping with a traditional lodge style building and the pattern of development seen elsewhere in the vicinity, rather than set back Photograph 03 - winter within the Estate that would effect other characteristics such as openness.

PHOTO VIEWPOINTS

The Site

Estate drive Footpath East Woodhay 6

Photograph 04 - summer

VIEWPOINT 4

This view is taken from the access road within the Estate leading to the entrance gates off Woolton Hill Road. The view looks towards the Site in a westerly direction. PRoW FP6 runs along the grass verge adjacent to the hedge towards the pedestrian entrance gate. The ground level of the Site is not visible due to the intervening hedgerow that marks the southeastern boundary.

A section of hedgerow to facilitate access will be removed just beyond the holly tree seen in the foreground. The proposed entrance to the Security Lodge would therefore be visible in this view to walkers using the PRoW, however this would also have been the case for the approved layout.

Before mitigation planting establishes the side aspect of the Security Lodge is likely to be partially visible beyond the Holly tree seen in the foreground. As mitigation planting establishes within the Site there will be filtering and softening of the outline of the built form within the views, reducing the visibility of the Security Lodge overall. The Security Lodge and its entrance would seen in association with other built form and vertical elements such as the gated entrance to the estate and the established mature trees along the boundary.

When compared to the approved location the Security Lodge would be less prominent as the approved location does not benefit from the same degree of enclosure created by the surrounding mature trees, entrance gates and wooded area (seen to the left of the frame of view). The approved location would be more isolated in its context placing a greater emphasis on the establishment of mitigation planting to assimilate it with its context.

PHOTO VIEWPOINTS

Estate drive The Site

Photograph 05 - summer

VIEWPOINT 5

This is a more distant view that is taken from PRoW FP6 to the northeast of the Site. The view looks over open pastureland towards the Site. The absence of a northeastern boundary to the Site is evident. The boundary hedgerow alongside Woolton Hill Road and the hedgerow boundary to the Woolton Estate beyond (that is maintained at a higher height) are also evident. Long distant views over these to the escarpment in the south are afforded, particularly during winter months when vegetative cover is reduced. Views to the escarpment are an element identified as a key characteristic both within the AONB Character Area and The Hampshire Downs Integrated Character Assessment and require protection.

When compared with the approved location the revised location would ensure that the Security Lodge would be less prominent within the view as it would be located further away from the viewer, closer to Woolton Hill Road and seen in association with vertical elements (hedgerows and trees) of a similar and greater scale. It would be less likely to detract from views towards the escarpment than the approved location.

The proposed mitigation planting consists of a naturalistic parkland style, without formal enclosure, that is intended to filter and fragment views of the lodge and parking area and allow longer distance views/ glimpses towards the escarpment.

Photograph 05 - winter

6.2. Overall Visual Effects 8 CONCLUSION

6.2.1. In it’s proposed revised location, the roof of the Security Lodge would be partially visible to users of a short 8.1.1. Further analysis of the AONB Special Qualities, Character Types and Areas reveals additional key characteristics stretch of Woolton Hill Road, causing a very slight change to their visual amenity. As it is the tradition for security and key issues that on balance would support the case for revising the location of the Security Lodge. lodges to be visible in association with estate entrances (only the sensitively designed roof in this case) a very low/negligible effect on the visual amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road is predicted. 8.1.2. The revised location would be likely to exert less effect on landscape character than that of the approved. The revised location adjacent to the entrance off Woolton Hill Road is in keeping with tradition and the pattern 6.2.1. Once mitigation planting has established and hedgerow management implemented it is unlikely that the lodge of development seen along Woolton Hill Road. The revised proposal would automatically be seen against a will be noticeable to users of Woolton Hill Road, its visual character would therefore remain as before. backdrop of vertical elements and boundary features such that it would be less noticeable and be unlikely to detract from the open character experienced in views from the northeast, including views to the escarpment. 6.2.2. On balance the revised location benefits from existing visual enclosure and screening such that potential effects on the visual amenity of occupants of Burley Moor and users of PRoW FP6 are likely to be very low and less than 8.1.3. The revised location benefits from existing visual enclosure and screening such that potential effects on the that predicted for the approved location. visual amenity of occupants at Burley Moor and users of PRoW FP6 are likely to be very low and less than that predicted for the approved location.

8.1.4. As it is the tradition for security lodges to be seen in association with estate entrances (only the sensitively 7 COMPLIANCE WITH POLICY EMI - LANDSCAPE designed roof in this case) and the proposal would be well assimilated with its surroundings, a very low/negligible effect on the visual amenity of users of Woolton Hill Road is predicted. 7.1.1. The revised location is considered to be entirely compliant with policy EM1- Landscape due to the following reasons: 8.1.5. Once mitigation planting has established and hedgerow management implemented it is unlikely that the Security • The development respects, enhances and would not be detrimental to the character or visual amenity of the Lodge would be noticeable to users of Woolton Hill Road, its visual character would therefore remain unharmed. landscape likely to be affected. 8.1.6. The proposed revised location, building design and landscape layout is considered to be fully compliant with • The revised location, sensitive building design and landscape layout pay regard to and protect: planning policy. –– The particular qualities identified within the council’s landscape character assessment and Special Qualities 8.1.7. In conclusion, there is on balance a landscape and visual justification for the revised location. Overall the of the AONB; landscape and visual effects are likely to be slightly less in the revised location when compared to that of the –– Visual amenity and scenic quality; approved location, taking into account any mitigation proposed. –– The local character of buildings and settlements; and –– Trees, ancient woodland, hedgerows, water features such as rivers and other landscape features and their function as ecological networks.

7.1.2. When compared to the approved location the revised location (as set out in this statement) and its comprehensive landscape scheme would offer greater protection and response to the existing sense of place, existing levels of tranquility and the quiet enjoyment of the landscape from Public Rights of Way (PRoW).

9 GLOSSARY OF TERMS

General terms

Impact Landform / Topography 1 Impact is defined in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment as “The action being taken”. 1 8 In landscape character terms effects on topography / landform are considered both in terms of the effects on the physical resource (the amount the existing landform is changed by cut and fill operations to accommodate the Effect proposals); and the effects on the wider landscape character. 2 Effect is defined in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment as “The change resulting from that action”. 2 Drainage 9 In landscape character terms effects on drainage are considered both in terms of the effects on the physical resource Setting of a heritage asset (for example an effect on the course of a river or stream itself); and any effects on wider landscape character (for 3 Setting of a heritage asset is defined in the NPPF as “The surroundings in which a heritage asset is experienced”.3 example the change in wider character caused by draining of an area of flood plain normally subject to seasonal flooding).

Visual terms Heritage assets Visual amenity 10 In landscape character terms effects on designated heritage assets are considered both in terms of the effects on 4 Visual amenity is defined in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment as “the overall the physical heritage asset (including Sites of Archaeological Importance / Conservations Areas / Listed Buildings pleasantness of the views that receptors enjoy of their surroundings”.4 / Scheduled Ancient Monuments/ Registered Parks and Gardens); and undesignated assets (such as undesignated parkland) and their setting. 7

Landscape Character terms Land use / management

Geology 11 In landscape character terms effects on land use / land management are considered both in terms of the effects on the site itself and effects on wider landscape character (considering the nature of surrounding land uses, and the 5 In landscape character terms effects on geology are considered in terms of physical effects on geological visibility of the site). The questions that are considered are “what are the effects on the site itself”; and “what are the features in the landscape (such as characteristic scarp slopes, ridges or low lying river valleys). Effects on less effects of this change on the wider setting”. visually obvious aspects of geology such as effects on groundwater reserves are the domain of other experts and fall outside the scope of Landscape Character Assessment.5 Settlement pattern / character of settlement

Soils 12 In landscape character terms effects on settlement pattern and the character of settlement are considered in terms of the shape of settlements (e.g. linear, clustered etc); and their character (urban, suburban, rural etc.). 6 In landscape character terms effects on soils are considered in terms of effects on the characteristics of that landscape. For example, clay soils give rise to poorly draining landscapes where water (ponds, lakes, Character of buildings / built form streams etc.) often becomes a characteristic feature, and vegetation is characterised by clay loving species 13 In landscape character terms effects on the character of buildings and built form are considered in terms of architectural such as English oak.6 style, heights, materials, massing etc. of buildings / built form; and whether the proposals will be compatible with the Vegetation existing built form found in the surrounding landscape. 7 In landscape character terms effects on vegetation are considered both in terms of the effects on the Access / movement physical resource (the amount and type of vegetation added or lost as a consequence of the proposals); and 14 In landscape character terms effects on access / movement are considered in terms of effects on public access within the effects on the wider landscape character. the landscape (roads, footpaths, bridleways, byways, access land etc.).

Landscape pattern

1 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition (GLVIA3) prepared jointly by the landscape Institute and the Institute of 15 In landscape character terms effects on landscape pattern are considered in terms of effects on the pattern of the Environmental Management and Assessment and published on the 17th April 2013. - Paragraph 1.15. landscape created by boundary features (eg roads, rail lines, hedgerows, woodlands, shelter belts, copses etc.). 2 GLVIA3 Paragraph 1.15. 3 Annex 2: Glossary, National Planning Policy Framework. 4 GLVIA3 Paragraph 2.20. 5 Such effects won’t affect landscape character unless they impact so greatly as to affect other factors such as vegetation. 6 Effects on soil structure caused by moving soils during construction of a project are not considered as part of the assessment of landscape effects as it is assumed that these effects will be managed and minimised through a detailed construction method statement and will, therefore, have a negligible effect on landscape character. 7 Setting of a heritage asset is defined in the NPPF as “The surroundings in which a heritage asset is experienced.”

Cultural elements Sense of place 16 In landscape character terms effects on ‘cultural elements’ are considered in terms whether there are any 24 In landscape character terms, sense of place is considered in terms of whether there are characteristics (or a references to the landscape in significant art or literature (such as Constable’s view of Salisbury Cathedral or combination of characteristics) that makes a place special and unique. A location with a strong sense of place has references to the “Secret Low Weald” in Rudyard Kipling’s Poem Puck’s Song), and the effects development something unique or particular to that location, whilst one with little sense of place is unremarkable and looks much would have on these views / characteristics. like many other similar locations.

Community spaces 17 In landscape character terms effects on community spaces are considered in terms of whether there are any community spaces in the landscape (such as parks, village greens, allotments, playing fields, play areas, other publically accessible green space, etc.): and the effects development would have on these.

Scale 18 In landscape character terms effects on scale are considered in terms of effects on the size of elements in the landscape such as fields or woodland areas (where large scale refers to large elements such as large fields / large areas of woodland and small scale refers to small fields / elements); and effects on the scale of built form.

Complexity 19 In landscape character terms effects on complexity are considered in terms of the effects on the number and type of differing elements that make up the landscape (where a complex landscape is composed of many interconnected parts; and a simple landscape contains a few component elements).

Degree of enclosure / openness 20 In landscape character terms effects on the degree of enclosure / openness are considered in terms of the openness (or otherwise) of views across the landscape (where openness refers to a landscape with wide, expansive views across an area). Landscape enclosure / openness is generally determined by the number of elements above eye level; including buildings, slopes, tall vegetation such as woods and tall hedgerows, and walls / fences.

Tranquillity 21 Tranquillity is measured in terms of both noise and visual intrusion. In landscape character terms a tranquil place is one that is calm, peaceful, quiet, serene; without detractors both aural and visual. Effects on tranquillity are therefore considered in terms of the effects on these characteristics of the landscape on and around a site.

Wildness 22 A truly wild landscape is one that is uninhabited, uncultivated, unaffected by human intervention. Although clearly there are degrees of wildness, in landscape character terms effects are considered in terms of the effects on these characteristics both on site, and in the wider landscape.

Remoteness 23 A remote landscape is one that is located far away, distant, far from civilization. Although clearly there are degrees of remoteness, in landscape character terms effects are considered in terms of the effects on these characteristics both on site, and in the wider landscape.

10 REFERENCES

10.1. Map references 10.6. Website references

10.1.1. 1:25,000 Ordnance Survey map. 10.6.1. Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC). Web link - http://magic.defra.gov.uk/ 10.6.2. Historic England Map Search - http://www.historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/map- 10.2. Consultant Reports search?clearresults=True 10.2.1. SJ Stephens – Arboricultural Impact Assessment - Tree survey, Tree Protection Plan, Arboricultural Method 10.6.3. Environment Agency. Flood map for planning (Rivers and Sea) - http://maps.environment-agency.gov.uk/ Statement 6th Mach 2019. wiyby/wiybyController?value=New+Milton%2C+Hampshire&submit.x=7&submit.y=7&submit=Search %09&lang=_e&ep=map&topic=floodmap&layerGroups=default&scale=9&textonly=off#x=423881&y= 10.3. General document references 95855&lg=1,2,10,&scale=9 10.3.1. Landscape Institute & Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment; (2013); Guidelines for 10.6.4. Environment Agency. Risk of flooding from surface water - http://watermaps.environment-agency.gov.uk/ Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition. wiyby/wiyby.aspx?topic=ufmfsw&scale=9&ep=map&layerGroups=default&lang=_e&y=95855&x=42388 1#x=423881&y=95855&scale=9 10.3.2. Landscape Institute; Landscape Advice Note 01/11, Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 10.6.5. British Geological Survey Geology of Britain viewer - http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html 10.3.3. Tranquillity Map: Hampshire. Campaign to Protect Rural England: Revised edition 2007. 10.6.6. Soilscape England - http://magic.defra.gov.uk/ 10.3.4. London and Southeast Region 1:250,000 series Agricultural Land Classification Map. Natural England 2010. 10.6.7. Google maps: https://www.google.co.uk/maps/ 10.3.5. Southwest Region 1:250,000 series Agricultural Land Classification Map. Natural England 2010. 10.6.8. Bing maps: http://www.bing.com/maps

10.4. Core planning documents

10.4.1. National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Department for Communities and Local Government: July 2018. 10.4.2. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Adopted Local Plan 2011-2029.

10.5. Landscape Character Assessments & associated Documents

10.5.1. North Wessex Downs AONB Management Plan 2014-2019. 10.5.2. North Wessex Downs AONB Character Assessments. 10.5.3. National Character Area Profile 129: Thames Basin Heaths. Natural England 2015. 10.5.4. Hampshire County Integrated Character Assessment – Hampshire County Council - Final Document, Autumn 2010. 10.5.5. Parish of East Woodhay Village Design Statement for Woolton Hill and the Hamlets (2005).

APPENDIX 1 - EXTRACTS FROM THE NORTH WESSEX DOWNS AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY: • Management Plan 2014-2019. • Lowland Mosaic Character Type. • 8E - Highclere Lowlands & Heath Character Area.

The North Wessex Downs This is the lowest part of the ‘bowl’, curving around Newbury and the lower Kennet valley. This landscape, of largely Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Medieval origins has a varied geology of clays, silts and sands giving rise to a diverse mix of soils and, in turn, a mosaic of ancient semi-natural woodlands, plantations, remnant MANAGEMENT PLAN 2014-2019 heathland and more open farmland areas.

This is a small-scale and intimate landscape, where lanes are frequently overhung by deep grassy and wooded banks, heightening the sense of seclusion. There are some limited longer views, as at Bucklebury Upper Common.The network of ancient semi-natural woodland, connecting hedgerows, areas of parkland, including wood pasture and veteran trees, create considerable ecological interest. Former Medieval deer parks are a particular feature, as at Englefield, Highclere and Hampstead, with a number of these having been re-fashioned in the 18th Century as formal designed landscapes. This is one of the most densely inhabited areas of the North Wessex Downs, with large manor houses, a network of hamlets, and lines of houses and villages that have grown along the network of lanes.

The key issues for the Plan period will be conserving and enhancing the small-scale, secluded and rural character of the area, including the fragile lowland heaths. Merging of small settlements or encroachment by larger settlements will be strongly resisted.

29 11.1 Landscape 3.3 Special Qualities: Landscape

• The distinctive northern Downs Plain and Scarp plunges down from the chalk plain to the Key Issues Vale of White Horse, creating a dramatic recognisable horizon. • The potential for development beyond the AONB boundary to visually damage or • Open Downland extending from Roundway Down near Devizes to Lardon Chase undermine the scale and critical qualities of landscape character areas. overlooking the Thames at Streatley is dissected by dry valleys and long steep scarps, with limited tree cover and sense of remoteness and tranquility. • Management of the Ridgeway National Trail and other rights of way to maximise enjoyment by responsible users and minimise conflicts • Downland with Woodland on the dipslope descending to Kennet Valley and south across the Hampshire Downs; offering softer contours, woodland cover and a mix of field • Maintenance and, where possible, extension of chalk grassland habitat. patterns. • Conserving and enhancing the remoteness and expansive open scale of the downland • Centred on Savernake Forest and West Woods, the Wooded Plateau consists of landscape. extensive tracts of semi-natural ancient woodland, wood pasture with majestic veteran • The need for viable agriculture to continue to contribute to AONB purposes. trees, and 18th and 19th Century Beech plantations, as well as more recent coniferous • plantations. Availability of sufficient resources for management and understanding of archaeological sites. • At the northernmost tip of Salisbury Plain, the open rolling landform of the High Chalk • Plain creates a bleak, spacious landscape under arable production and devoid of Conserving and enhancing the remote, secluded and relatively undeveloped character of settlement, with long views and a strong sense of remoteness and isolation more enclosed and intimate landscapes, including the character of the lanes. • • The Vales of Pewsey and sections of the Thames Valley floor adjoining the Chilterns The need for appropriate woodland management, including the viable use of timber AONB offer productive loamy and alluvial soils where springs issue from the chalk and products, particularly for fuel; compact settlements contrast with scattered farmsteads. • Encouraging restoration of wood pasture landscapes, husbandry and ecology and • The River Valleys of the Kennet, Lambourn, Pang and Bourne form very distinct linear ensuring future veteran tree succession landscapes, characterised by a rich mix of grazed pastures, water meadows, wetland and • The dominance of roads, in particular the impact of traffic noise, external lighting, road woodland. Steeply rising slopes create an intimate and enclosed character signs, insensitive materials and clutter on landscape character and people’s experience • The Lowland Mosaic, curving around Newbury and the lower Kennet valley has a varied of the landscape as they travel through it. geology of clays, silts and sands giving rise to a diverse mix of soils and, in turn, a mosaic • Maintaining the pattern of discrete villages set within a quiet rural landscape and of ancient semi-natural woodlands, plantations, remnant heathland and more open ensuring that the views to the surrounding dramatic scarps are undamaged. farmland areas where sunken lanes heighten the sense of seclusion. • Ensuring the maintenance of water quality and quantity in the rivers, supporting river managers in river course improvement for fisheries and wildlife;

• Maintaining and enhancing adjacent seasonal flood meadows, grazed pastures, fen, damp woodlands and historic parkland.

• Conserving and enhancing the small-scale, secluded and rural character of the lowland mosaic, including the fragile lowland heaths.

• Intense pressure for development throughout the AONB and its setting that threatens the character and quality of its landscape and risks merging of small settlements or encroachment by larger settlements.

• The need to protect and enhance historic sites, buildings and landscapes and their setting.

30 74 Objectives

• To maintain and enhance the distinctive landscape character of the North Wessex Downs.

• To raise the profile of the North Wessex Downs AONB.

North Wessex Downs AONB Policies

• Encourage all partners and other stakeholders to have regard for AONB purposes across all relevant policies, programmes and activities.

• Wherever possible seek to identify and address the main factors that threaten the special qualities of the AONB landscape: e.g. water abstraction, agricultural practices; woodland neglect; damage to historic sites, built development.

• Use the North Wessex Downs Integrated Landscape Character Assessment to inform policy and decision making across the AONB and its setting.

• Support, encourage and promote good practice across all sectors that conserves and enhances the character and qualities of the North Wessex Downs landscape.

• Support and encourage efforts to conserve and explain the rich heritage of the North Wessex Downs, including archaeological sites.

• Ensure that all development in or affecting the setting of the AONB conserves and enhances the character, qualities and heritage of the North Wessex Downs landscape.

• Raise the policy profile of the North Wessex Downs locally, regionally and nationally to secure the co-ordination and resourcing of policies and programmes for the benefit of the AONB.

• Encourage responsible recreational enjoyment of woodland.

• Support the maintenance and responsible use of the Kennet and Avon Canal.

75 15. LANDSCAPE TYPE 8: LOWLAND MOSAIC Key Characteristics • underlain by a geology of clays, silts, sands and gravel, in strong contrast to the chalk. The pattern essentially comprises clay on the lower land, separated by gravel Location and Boundaries ridges; • a low lying undulating area enclosed by the chalk to the north, south and west and 15.1. The landscape type comprises a lowland area in the eastern part of the AONB forming a part of the Thames Basin Heaths which extend to the east of the AONB; intervening between the two main chalk upland blocks to the north and south and • a mosaic of landcover including fragments of remnant heathland, extensive lying to either side of the Kennet Valley (7A). The boundaries are essentially defined woodlands and pasture, as well as more open areas of arable land; by geology with the change from the chalk to the Tertiary deposits of the Reading • ecologically important habitats including: ancient woodland, wood pasture, parkland, Beds, the Bagshot Beds and London Clay. In the north the chalk descends as a ancient hedgerows, neutral grassland, hay meadows, heathland, acid grassland, bogs, gradual dipslope (2A: Brightwalton Downs & 2B: Ashampstead Downs), while to the fens and open water; south it rises as a dramatic escarpment (2D: Walbury Hill - Watership Downs • parklands, including many originating as medieval deer parks, with subsequent Scarp). The geological transition within this landscape type is clearly marked by the designed landscape schemes, are a particular feature of the area; lower topography and the land cover of woodland and pasture. • varied field pattern with irregular fields, interspersed with parcels of woodland and commons indicative of medieval and post medieval assarts. Fields with parallel and sinuous boundaries predominate and represent ‘ladder’ fields probably resulting Overview from the 17th and 18th century informal enclosure. Plus large regular fields of The lowland mosaic is a distinct landscape in the eastern part of the North Wessex Downs Parliamentary enclosure; occupying the low lying basin of gravel beds and clays which rise either side of the Kennet • one of the most densely settled landscape types, with a diverse range of settlements ranging from large manor houses, villages, numerous hamlets and lines of houses Valley. The area has a strong woodland character, with its origins as part of the medieval along the roads and lanes; forests. In the early 17th century the forests were subject to gradual piecemeal enclosure, • varied settlements with villages often having a clear nucleus, typically associated with the legacy of which is reflected in numerous dispersed small settlements and farms. Today a village green or a church. A more dispersed pattern may derive from ‘squatter’ the area is characterised by irregular fields, cut out from the woodland during the medieval settlement of disafforested areas. The principal building material is red brick; or post medieval period, interspersed with parcels of woodland and commons. Although in • an intricate network of wooded rural lanes, plus a large number of footpaths, some areas, a more open landscape dominated by large-scale arable farmland is found. bridleways, and byways form an excellent resource for informal recreation. Visitor attractions include a number of historic houses and parklands; One of the most densely inhabited parts of the North Wessex Downs, this lowland area has • well settled landscape with a rising population due to proximity and accessibility to a diverse range of settlements ranging from large manor houses associated with the many centres such as Reading, Newbury and Basingstoke - manifest in pressures for parklands to the network of hamlets, lines of houses and villages that occur along the lanes residential development, commuter villages and an increase in traffic on the rural and roads. Many villages have a clear nucleus, typically associated with a village green or lanes. church whilst others follow a more dispersed pattern typical of post medieval ‘squatter’ settlement. Red brick and tile are the principal building materials. Physical Influences It is generally a small-scale intimate landscape with the widespread settlements linked by an 15.2. Geology and Soils: The area is underlain by Tertiary deposits including clays, silts, intricate network of narrow rural lanes, winding through ancient semi-natural woodlands, sands and gravels of the Reading and Bagshot Beds. The pattern essentially is of clay plantations and more open farmland areas. The lanes are frequently overhung by deep on the lower land separated by gravel ridges. This gives rise to nutrient poor acidic grassy or woodland banks and contribute to the ‘secluded’ enclosed character. Small areas soils with a mainly light or slowly permeable character which are a major factor in of heathland on the drier gravel ridges are a distinctive and important feature, although the land use. Localised tracts of more fertile loamy soils support arable farmland many formerly open areas have reverted to scrub or woodland. The network of ancient within the predominant land use of woodland, pasture and heathland. semi-natural woodland, connecting hedgerows, areas of parkland including wood pasture and veteran trees create considerable ecological interest. Former medieval deer parks are a 15.3. Landform: This area is a predominantly low-lying undulating area with elevations particular feature, with a number of these being refashioned in the eighteenth century as varying between 50-166m AOD north of the Kennet and between 100m-179m AOD formal designed parks and gardens. south of the Kennet. The river valleys of the Pang, Kennet and Lambourn dissect the landscape type. These create visual and topographical diversity across the generally Overall, this is a diverse and complex landscape, which despite its variety has a coherent undulating lowland landscape. High points include Wickham Green at 166m AOD, and intact rural character, although in places it’s ‘ruralness’ is diluted by roads and just south of the M4, and a hill south of Whitway just east of Highclere Park at 179m development. AOD. At higher points the slopes of the surrounding higher chalklands are visible, but otherwise this is a low, visually enclosed landscape.

North Wessex Downs AONB: 224 Land Use Consultants North Wessex Downs AONB: 223 Land Use Consultants Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Technical Report Technical Report Biodiversity represented by tracks and paths linking the different resources. Elsewhere, a more open landscape is the result of formal Parliamentary enclosure. 15.4. This landscape character type contains a number of ecologically important habitats including: ancient woodland, wood pasture, parkland, neutral grassland, hay 15.10. Parkland: One of most the notable features of this area is the large number of meadows, heathland, acid grassland, bogs, fens and open water. It is characterised by parks, including former deer parks, for example, at Englefield (8A: Hermitage the presence of areas of parkland (a UK BAP priority habitat), including permanent Wooded Commons), Highclere (8E: Highclere Lowlands and Heath), Hampstead pasture and mature/veteran trees. Very small fragmented areas of dry and wet deer park, the surviving park pale defining the AONB boundary (8D: Hungerford heathland are also a feature, on the gravel and sandy ridges. The most extensive Farmland) and Wolverton (8F: Ewhust Parklands). ecological feature of this character type is the ancient semi-natural woodland. 15.11. There are also numerous quarry pits, particularly in Hermitage Ancient hedgerows are another feature of ecological importance of this landscape Medieval Period: Wooded Commons (8A), for chalk, clay and gravel, many of which may have type lining the lanes, often in association with wide grassy verges. These hedgerows medieval origins. Medieval moated sites are also located at West Woodhay, Balsdon provide important habitats for animals and plant species as well as providing “green Farm and Yattendon. corridors” to aid the movement and dispersal of species across areas of farmland.

Historic Environment Settlement and Building Character 15.12. This landscape type is one of the most densely settled areas within the AONB, with 15.5. Lowland Heathland: The area contains some of the few remaining areas of a diverse range of settlements, ranging from large manor style houses within and lowland heath in England, much of which is the direct result of prehistoric human around the numerous parklands to the network of hamlets, lines of houses and action. It was formed by clearance of deciduous woodland cover on the sandy soils villages that occur along or around roadways and the network of winding lanes. leading to podzolisation and the resultant heath dominated vegetation. Villages may have a clear nucleus, typically associated with a village green or church 15.6. A Wooded Landscape: Archaeological evidence suggests much of the area or may follow a more dispersed settlement pattern typical of post-medieval remained a wooded landscape. For example, Romano-British pottery kilns from ‘squatter’ settlement. Red brick is the principal building material within this Kintbury, which required substantial quantities of timber for fuel, indicate a wooded landscape type. area at this time. During the Saxon period, the decreasing fertility of the downland soils suggests that the claylands were becoming increasingly attractive to farmers. Recreation Character Place-names provide further evidence of a wooded landscape. Berkshire owes its 15.13. An extensive network of footpaths, bridleways and byways pass through this name to the forest of Barroc which is thought to have stretched from Enbourne to landscape type, connecting the small settlements. In addition a large number of the Hungerford, centred on Kintbury. The area was also partially covered by the woodlands and commons have open access. Promoted routes include a small medieval forests of Pamber and Freemantle, areas defined by boundaries and placed section of a bridleway endorsed by the British Horse Society, sections of the under the special code of Forest Law. Berkshire Circular Routes, and Walks from Pangbourne Station. Other attractions 15.7. Piecemeal Enclosure and Squatter Settlement: The Medieval forests were include several historic properties and parklands. deforested in the early seventeenth century, and would have been subjected to gradual piecemeal enclosure, the legacy of which is reflected in numerous small Social and Economic Character settlements and farms and names such as Hell Corner and Rotten Row, indicative of 15.14. Unlike some of the other landscape types identified, this type is well settled with squatter’s settlement. On steeper slopes and ridge tops, where arable farming was some urban influences, including larger settlement sizes and high accessibility via. impractical, small woods and copses still survive today. major roads and rail. The majority of the parishes within this area have increased in 15.8. Field Patterns: The area is characterised by numerous irregular fields, population since 1981, some quite considerably (by up to 50%). The location of this interspersed with parcels of woodland and commons, particularly in character areas landscape type, i.e. on the periphery of the AONB, and near settlements such as 8E: Highclere Lowland and Heath and 8A: Hermitage Wooded Commons. These Newbury and Reading, is likely to result in a high proportion of outbound represent medieval and post-medieval assarts or clearance of forest and waste to commuting. The growth in population of this area may be attributed to those create small enclosed pasture or arable fields. Within the peripheral heath areas wishing to relocate to a more rural location yet still commute daily to urban some of the assarts possibly reflect the enclosure of heathland rather than workplaces. There are also pressures for rural diversification and conversion of woodland. farm buildings to new business uses within this area. 15.15. The parishes are far better serviced by local facilities than those in any other area of 15.9. In areas such as Winterbourne Farmland, fields with parallel and sinuous boundaries the North Wessex Downs. Although the tendency to provide a petrol station as predominate and represent ‘ladder’ fields, probably resulting from seventeenth and opposed to a local shop or G.P. surgery suggests a high proportion of commuters eighteenth century informal enclosure. They would appear to link the Lambourn within this area, indicating high car ownership, high traffic levels and poorly used local Valley floor enclosures to the higher downland, with the legs of the “ladders” services where they do exist. The higher population and density of settlement has

North Wessex Downs AONB: 225 Land Use Consultants North Wessex Downs AONB: 226 Land Use Consultants Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Technical Report Technical Report resulted in a more developed road network linking villages and the surrounding Key Management Requirements urban centres. The landscape type thus has, in parts, a less remote rural character 15.16. The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the distinctive small- compared to other areas of the AONB. scale and enclosed landscape of the Lowland Mosaic with its secluded, rural and Key Issues tranquil character. This includes conservation and enhancement of the key assets, namely: • intensification in farming leading to loss of environmental assets particularly conversion of permanent pasture to arable; • the ancient and semi-natural woodlands;

• decline in the extent of heathland vegetation through conversion to • field patterns and hedgerows and particularly through ensuring appropriate forestry or lack of management with scrub invasion and development of management to allow regeneration of hedgerow trees; woodland; • the hedgerows and grass verges which line the rural lanes; • potential changes in farming practices may include further loss of livestock with an increase in areas managed as ‘hobby farms’ or as horse paddocks - • heathland; characterised by rank weedy grassland and poorly managed boundaries; • historic parkland. • lack of appropriate management of woodlands particularly ancient and 15.17. There are opportunities for restoration of the fragile lowland heathland resource, semi natural woodlands formerly managed by coppicing and areas of wood through management and habitat restoration to extend and link isolated areas. pasture; 15.18. The aim should be to maintain the distinctive patterns of settlement and prevent the • loss of hedgerows boundaries and particularly mature hedgerow trees, gradual expansion, merging and coalescence that will result in a more suburban plus poor management of remaining hedgerows by flailing so that hedgerow character. Consideration should be given to measures that could lessen the impact trees are often no longer present. Also need for management of adjacent grass of the roads and reduce high traffic levels on the rural lanes. verges; Character Areas • climate change - potential impacts on habitats including drying out of wet heathland and increased fire risk on dry heaths. Requirement for irrigation of 15.19. The Lowland Mosaic landscape type contains six component character areas. These arable land - including construction of reservoirs and intrusive infrastructure. comprise. Potential impacts on woodland and parkland include an increase in non native 8A: Hermitage Wooded Commons species and tree loss (drought/windthrow); 8B: Winterbourne Farmland • localised intrusion of roads (M4, A34 and A343), which have a high impact in this 8C: Wickham Wooded Heath quiet, rural landscape; 8D: Hungerford Farmland • increased traffic on the road network, plus road improvements to the lanes 8E: Highclere Lowlands and Heath including kerbing, widening, signing and visibility splays which, in places creates a more ‘urban’ character; 8F: Ewhurst Parklands

• potential future demand for aggregate extraction altering the form and character of the valleys;

• development pressures, particularly for new residential development including suburbanising influence of built development and roads (fencing, signing, lighting and planting);

• decline in local services and facilities with many villages becoming ‘empty’ commuter villages by day;

• loss of tranquillity, resulting from a combination of the above.

North Wessex Downs AONB: 227 Land Use Consultants North Wessex Downs AONB: 228 Land Use Consultants Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Technical Report Technical Report CHARACTER AREA 8E: HIGHCLERE LOWLANDS AND HEATH Landscape Character Description 15.65. The Highclere Lowlands and Heath character area has a complex micro topography created by the geology of clays, gravel and sands and the influence of the numerous small streams flowing out from spring line where the chalk meets the clay, which cut across the area. The watercourses are frequently dammed so that standing water within small on-stream ponds is a visible element of the landscape. 15.66. The area is still extensively wooded, but has been progressively cleared through the processes of’ ‘assarting’ to form a mosaic of irregularly shaped fields with wooded margins or contained by thick hedges. The woodlands vary from large scale coniferous plantations, as for example at Great Pen Wood near Woolton Hill to smaller ancient woodland of oak standards over hazel coppice. The woods are frequently linked by linear belts and hedges and form a large connected wooded matrix across the whole area. Within this wooded framework there is considerable diversity with the light sands and gravels creating a ‘heathy’ character in places. This is illustrated by commons of birch and bracken, heathy rides through the woodlands, and areas of poorer acid pasture. There are also important small areas of remnant heath as for example at Inkpen Common where the damp heathland is designated as an SSSI. Parklands, many originating as medieval deer parks, are a distinctive element, as illustrated by Highclere Park, with its later Capability Brown landscape. The areas of unimproved pasture with mature parkland trees, pasture woodland and lakes create a diverse range of habitats and it is designated as an SSSI. Other smaller areas of parkland are found at Woolton House and Hollington House. 15.67. The area is crossed by a lattice of minor roads and tracks and is relatively densely settled. A number of loose linear settlements extend along the roads. These include the main settlements of Highclere and Woolton Hill as well a number of smaller linear settlements as for example at Inkpen and Lower Green. In addition there are many residential properties, small hamlets and farms/studs dispersed throughout the area. 15.68. Despite the complexity and variety of landform and landcover, the landscape has a coherent character, with a consistent framework provided by the strong structure of woodlands, hedgerows and trees. This creates a small scale enclosed and even ‘secretive’ character. The proximity of settlements to the main road network of the A343 and the A34 means that these areas are highly accessibly and there is, in consequence, evidence of development pressures, particularly within the small villages with suburbanising elements in the form of fences, lighting and horse paddocks.

Key Characteristics

4.64. Location and Boundaries: The Highclere Lowlands and Heath character area is • a lowland landscape, underlain by a mosaic of clays, gravels and sands, to the north of the abrupt scarp slope of the southern upland block of chalk; located in the eastern part of the AONB. It extends from the base of the abrupt scarp slope marking the edge of the southern block of chalk uplands (Walbury • complex micro topography created by the diverse geology and the influence of the numerous small streams. Watercourses and ponds are a frequent feature; Hill/Watership Down Scarp 2D). To the north the boundary marks the transition to • mosaic of small irregularly shaped fields of arable/pasture, often with wooded the less wooded landscape at Hungerford Farmland (8D) that flanks the Kennet margins or contained by thick hedges - a pattern characteristic of piecemeal and Valley (8D). The eastern edge is created by the AONB boundary, although a informal medieval assarting and enclosure; landscape of very similar character extends further to the east, including areas such as Burghclere Common. North Wessex Downs AONB: 248 Land Use Consultants Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 North Wessex Downs AONB: 247 Land Use Consultants Technical Report Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Technical Report • extensive woodland cover, varying from large scale coniferous plantations to smaller 15.73. Field Patterns: There is a high proportion of woodland within the area, especially on ancient woodland coppices of oak standards over hazel coppice and wooded valley sides or steeper slopes. Some woods show evidence for assarting and may be commons; earlier. Highclere manor, for example, is documented as being involved with assarting • parklands, which originated as medieval deer parks, are a distinctive element; and agricultural expansion during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Some of the • remnant heathlands survive on the acidic sands and gravels, although these are more irregular or sinuous boundaries in the area may be following late medieval frequently covered by woodland or scrub; boundaries. Fields are often small and irregular, and may represent piecemeal and • formerly part of the medieval Forests of Pamber and Freemantle - reflected today in informal post-medieval assarting and enclosure. In some cases this may have taken place high woodland cover and ‘squatter’ settlement pattern resulting from piecemeal enclosure following disafforestation in the early 17th century; between existing tracks and lanes. Other small but regular, straight-sided fields are the result of formal eighteenth and nineteenth century Parliamentary enclosure. • relatively densely settled with loose linear settlements extending along the intricate lattice of minor roads and tracks through the area. Many individual residential properties, small hamlets and farms/studs are also dispersed through the area; Biodiversity • a coherent character formed by the strong structure of woodlands, hedgerows and 15.74. The Highclere Lowlands and Heath Character Area have retained a significant number of trees - creating a small scale, enclosed and secretive landscape. grassland and woodland sites with nature conservation value. In total there are 4 SSSI’s and 75 sites with non-statutory designations. The majority of these sites are woodland, Physical Influences with nearly 50 of the 75 non-statutory sites falling within this habitat category. 15.69. The area is underlain by a mosaic of clays, gravels, sands, with a mix of soil types varying 15.75. Catmore and Winterly Copses (SSSI), is ancient woodland largely consisting of a hazel from clay loams to acid sandy soils creating a very diverse landscape at the micro scale. coppice under oak standards, and has a rich associated ground flora. Inkpen Crocus The land is gently undulating with an overall slope down to the north to the River fields (SSSI) is a nationally important grassland and is a very important site for the Red Enbourne (not in the AONB) or, in the east, to the River Kennet. It is cut by numerous Data Book spring crocus (Crocus vernus), which is an alien species known to have been small streams issuing from the base of the chalk so that the landform comprises a series present at this site since 1800. The remaining 2 nationally important sites are Inkpen of consecutive ridges and shallow valleys. Common (SSSI) and Highclere Park (SSSI).

Historic Environment Key Issues 15.70. Prehistoric Monuments: In common with other character areas within this • decline in the extent of heathland vegetation through lack of management landscape type, there are few surviving prehistoric sites. One Bronze Age round leading to scrub invasion or conversion to forestry; barrow survives as an upstanding monument, west of Lower Green and the linear earthwork feature around Mount Prosperous may be late Bronze Age or Iron Age. • potential changes in farming practices may include further loss of livestock with an increase in areas managed as ‘hobby farms’ or as horse paddocks - characterised by 15.71. Medieval Manors and Deer Parks: There is a medieval moated site at Balsdon rank weedy grassland and poorly managed boundaries; Farm, a motte at West Woodhay, and West Woodhay House itself was a medieval manor. In the medieval period Inkpen was a manor belonging to the Premonstratensian • in some areas, extensive plantation monoculture - lack of woodland diversity and monastery of Titchfield, while Highclere manor was part of the bishopric of Winchester. visual impacts, e.g. clearfell; A deer park is recorded by the thirteenth century, and some sections of the Park Pale • lack of appropriate management of woodlands particularly ancient and semi- earthwork still survive in Highclere Park. By the fourteenth century the Bishop of natural woodlands formerly managed by coppicing and areas of wood pasture; Winchester had an impressive manor house at Highclere, with an associated complex of ancillary buildings. The earthwork remains of a deserted medieval village within • inappropriate hedgerow management and retention of hedgerow saplings; Highclere Park may have provided accommodation for servants and estate workers, or it may have been the original location of Highclere village itself. • localised intrusion of roads with the A343 and A34 running through the area with visual and noise impacts; 15.72. Parkland: The estate at Highclere evolved into a ‘polite’ landscape during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, and gardens, follies, landscaped wood and lake • increased traffic on the lane network (rat runs from main routes) and features became established around a remodelled house. Capability Brown influenced improvements to the lanes including kerbing, widening, signing and visibility splays some of this work. The largest mansion in Hampshire, Highclere Castle was virtually which, in places create a more ‘urban’ character and are particularly damaging to the rebuilt by Sir Charles Barry for the Earl of Carnarvon between 1839-1842. character of the sunken lanes;

North Wessex Downs AONB: 249 Land Use Consultants North Wessex Downs AONB: 250 Land Use Consultants Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Technical Report Technical Report • comparative accessibility resulting in development pressures, particularly for new residential development including suburbanising influence of built development (e.g. fencing, lighting and paddocks);

• loss of tranquillity.

Key Management Requirements 15.76. The overall management objective is to conserve and enhance the quiet, secluded character of the Highclere Lowlands and Heath. This includes conservation and enhancement of the key assets, namely: ancient and semi-natural woodlands, pasture, field patterns and hedgerows, remnant heathland commons, historic parkland and the rural lane network. There are opportunities to enhance the landscape through restoration of the hedgerow network and diversification of some of the plantations to include a broadleaved element. In the longer term, as part of a wider initiative, it may be appropriate to consider restoration of former areas of heathland to link existing sites. 15.77. The aim should be to maintain the distinctive pattern of settlement with its small hamlets and loose linear settlements and prevent gradual merging and coalescence that will result in a more suburban character. Consideration should be given to measures that could lessen the impact of the roads and reduce high traffic levels on the rural lanes.

North Wessex Downs AONB: 251 Land Use Consultants Integrated Landscape Character Assessment March 2002 Technical Report INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

APPENDIX 2 - EXTRACT FROM NATIONAL CHARACTER AREA PROFILE 129. THAMES BASIN HEATHS.

Burley Security Lodge, Woolton Hill, Newbury Ref: 822-LS REV A 2019-03-28 Landscape Statement March 2019 Copyright © 2019 Indigo Landscape Architects. All Rights Reserved Page 34 National Character 129. Thames Basin Heaths Area profile: Supporting documents

Key facts Landscape Analysis Introduction & Summary Description Opportunities and data change

www.naturalengland.org.uk

1 National Character 129. Thames Basin Heaths Area profile: Supporting documents

Key facts Landscape Analysis Introduction & Summary Description Opportunities and data change

Key characteristics

■ Plateaux of Tertiary sands and gravels in the London Basin, with intervening continuous mosaics are found in the east: they include Thursley, Ash, river valleys floored by London Clay. In the far west, Chalk forms the Pirbright and Chobham Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and Chobham Hampshire Downs escarpment and the river beds of the Kennet and Pang. Common National Nature Reserve (NNR).

■ High woodland cover, offering an array of colour in the autumn. Conifers ■ Historic commons offer tranquillity and unenclosed views, while other and large plantations on former heathland are dominant features in the rights of access are enjoyed across farmland, canals and downland. Ministry east, while the west is scattered with small, semi-natural woodlands on of Defence ownership restricts (but does not entirely prevent) public ancient sites. enjoyment.

■ Acid, leached soils mean that farming on the plateaux is limited to rough ■ ‘Churring’ nightjars, dragonflies and purple heather are all readily identified pasture, and that alternative land uses (such as forestry, golf courses and with heathland. The Thames Basin Heaths SPA protects internationally horse paddocks) have emerged. Heather, gorse, oak and birch all thrive important populations of woodlark, nightjar and Dartford warbler. here. Arable land and improved pasture are found in the valleys, on alluvium. ■ Valley floors are wet with ditches, numerous watercourses, ponds, water- filled gravel pits, reedbeds and carr. Historic features include mills, relict ■ Beyond the large areas of heathland and woodland, there is a patchwork water meadows, and canals such as the River Wey Navigations. of small to medium-sized fields with woods. The legacy of historic hunting forests includes veteran trees, ancient woods, ancient hedgerows and ■ 20th-century conurbations, including Camberley, sprawl along the parklands. Historic meadows remain as fragments along watercourses. Blackwater Valley, with associated roads (including the M3) dissecting heathland and woodland into blocks. Elsewhere, there are winding lanes ■ Prehistoric earthworks such as barrows and hill forts mark promontories and historic dispersed villages and farmsteads of traditional, locally-made on the plateaux. Archaeology is well preserved on historic heathland. brick and tile. Mosaics of open heathland and grassland with scrub, secondary woodland and plantation. Valley bogs, ponds and streams enhance diversity. Large,

6 INDIGO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

APPENDIX 3 - EXTRACT FROM THE HAMPSHIRE COUNTY INTEGRATED CHARACTER ASSESSMENT, CHARACTER AREA 2A: HIGHCLERE CHASE

2A: HIGHCLERE CHASE

Falkland Farm – Consistent sized small to very small pasture fields extend up onto the higher gravels in the north.

Hollington Cross Highclere pasture and parkland Falkland Farm – pasture fields

East Woodhay –Victorian /Edwardian Burghclere estate cottages Burghclere Church Hampshire County 2 Status: Final May 2012 houses with typical local red / orange Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase brick and Welsh slate.

Hampshire County 1 Status: Final May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase

1.0 Location and Boundaries 3.0 Physical Characteristics and Land Use 1.1 This character area is located in the 3.1 The underlying geology comprises London Clay with patches of high level terrace far northwest corner of Hampshire deposits and Bagshot Beds giving rise to a mosaic of clay, gravels, sands and loam. County. Its northern edge is defined The result is a subdued relief and a strong correlation between areas of heathland by the River Enborne while to the character and the less productive, well drained and more acidic soils associated with south it is flanked by a distinctive the Bagshot Beds and terrace deposits. Within the river valleys the soils are slowly chalk scarp which marks an abrupt permeable and may be seasonally waterlogged. The orientation of this landscape is change in geology. To the east there northwards sloping gently down towards the valley of the River Enborne. The is a gradual transition to more open whole of this landscape is dissected by small streams which form tributaries to the mosaic farmland. Key defining river adding complexity to the landform. Agricultural land quality is predominately elements of this landscape are the of medium quality with some areas of higher quality in the river valleys and south of influence of parkland (e.g. Highclere), Woolton Hill. raised areas of heathland and the strong visual and cultural association with the chalk escarpment to the south. 3.2 This is a diverse and intimate landscape of varied topography, covered by a medium to small-scaled mosaic of native broadleaved woodland, some mixed farmland 1.2 Component County Landscape Types (improved/semi-improved grassland and limited arable) creating a relatively enclosed, Settled Lowland Mosaic Heath Associated, River Valley Floor well-treed character. Small to medium scaled fields are defined by mature hedges with hedgerow trees. 1.3 Composition of Borough/District LCAs: Basingstoke and Deane 3.3 Patches of remnant dry heath occur mainly in the central and eastern parts of this Highclere and Burghclere character area retained in areas of common where there is a predominance of acidic Ecchinswell vegetation as well as areas of conifer plantation.

This character area correlates with the distribution of small scale and wooded mixed farmland 3.4 The area falls within the Environment Agency Kennet and Enborne catchment area. types identified in the Basingstoke and Dean local level assessment. The eastern The tributary streams which feed the River Enborne and dissect this landscape start boundary of the County character area is a reflection of the transition at Borough in the southern part of the area as springs at the junction of the chalk geology with level from the small scale to the open farmland and woodland type which is also the clay. These streams run broadly north-south. Open waterbodies in the form of coincident with the presence of more streams in the Ecchinswell LCA. small ponds are associated with the streams. Waterbodies also feature in some designed parklands notably at Highclere Park – where medieval fishing ponds were 1.4 Associations with NCAs and Natural Areas: later developed as lakes in the designed landscape. NCA 129: Thames Basin Heaths NA 66: London Basin 4.0 Experiential/Perceptual Characteristics 4.1 This is a complex and intimate landscape with close range views as a result of 2.0 Key Characteristics woodland cover. Where outwards views are possible they are generally to the  Mosaic of clay, gravels, sands and loams resulting in subdued undulating relief. elevated chalk escarpment which lies to the south and overlooks the area. The  The landform generally slopes northwards towards the River Enborne and is varied topography of this landscape coupled with woodland contributes to a sense dissected by incised stream valleys adding complexity to landform. of remoteness and rurality and can often be disorientating. The area’s small scaled  Numerous woodlands (ancient semi-natural assarted woods and plantation) intimate character and areas of parkland estate contribute greatly to its high scenic giving an enclosed, intimate character. quality and justify its part designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Varied biodiversity, deriving from the area’s woodland, heathland, agricultural, grassland and wetland habitats. 4.2 This landscape is traversed by a network of narrow lanes and public rights of way.  Unusual concentration of 19th century origin estate houses and parks. Former heathland and common still provide some areas of open access e.g.  Predominantly pasture land use (including paddocks/stud farms) within Newtown Common, Sydmonton Common, as do areas of conifer plantation over medium to small scaled fields defined by hedgerows with hedgerow trees. former common (some of which are owned and managed by the Forestry  Areas of former heath/common land much of which is now wooded. Commission or National Trust) and which are popular for outdoor recreation e.g.  Strong visual and cultural link to the chalk escarpment to the south. Great Fen Wood and The Chase. There are no long distance routes which pass  Numerous scattered villages and farmsteads. through this landscape. Key tourist attractions include Highclere Castle.  Unusually high density of narrow winding lanes, tracks and footpaths which is a striking aspect of this landscape. 4.3 Parts of this area have a strongly settled character, due to numerous horse paddocks and stud farms, dispersed housing and recent residential developments

Hampshire County 3 Status: Final May 2012 Hampshire County 4 Status: Final May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase

around existing villages such as Woolton Hill. Nevertheless this landscape has a high 6.1.2 In the Roman period there is only one site recorded, at Horris Hill, but the evidence degree of tranquillity particularly in central areas to the west of Highclere. suggests that this may be quite a significant site, perhaps representing early encroachment onto unenclosed land. 5.0 Biodiversity Character 5.1 This landscape character area consists of a mosaic of agricultural grasslands and 6.1.3 The medieval evolution of the landscape, with the development of a sheep-corn arable land, some heath associated habitats and woodland of varying types and ages. system of agriculture, enclosure of common land and enclosure from woodland Many are structurally diverse, rich in lichen and fungal flora while ancient and semi (assart) is clearly apparent in the historic character of the area. Parishes (such as Old natural woodland is well distributed across the area, with some sizeable patches Burghclere) still run in a north-south axis across this landscape, connecting the associated with Highclere Park in the south. lower lying clays and sands of this area with the chalk landscapes to the south. The presence of deer parks reflects the forest status of the area, and has connections to 5.2 Heath associated habitats include both dry and wet heaths and exist mainly towards the Bishop of Winchester as a significant local landowner. Two moats in this area the east of the area, the largest are associated with the Burghclere Common SINC. suggest that the assart process was under way during the 12th century. In addition there are a number of medieval fish ponds which are part of a wider distribution of 5.3 There is one SSSI in the area comprising an old deer park (Highclere Park), which fish ponds on the higher poorer land above the Enborne and the Kennet. They contains broadleaved, mixed and yew woodlands (lowland), standing open water, seem to have been an available investment in this landscape, and sometimes reflect acid and neutral grasslands and fen, marsh and swamp habitats. The grassland ecclesiastical land holding. comprises a combination of calcifuge and calcicole species that are unique in Hampshire. The mature parkland and wood pasture trees support a rich and diverse 6.2 Historic Landscape lichen and moss flora, with numerous species indicative of its ancient woodland 6.2.1 Two distinctive historic areas can be seen in this landscape today– firstly the origins. agricultural farmland in the east and west of this character areas which comprises small scaled assarted and irregular enclosures and associated small copses/woods, 5.4 This character area is part of the North Hampshire Lowland and Heath Biodiversity and secondly the estate parkland, common and forest which occurs through the Opportunity Area. The area contains a complex series of ancient commons which centre of this area. Prior to the medieval period it is likely that this landscape was would once have been covered by heathland and acid grassland with a scatter of well wooded and during the medieval period it is known that this area formed part small woods. There are also opportunities to restore and enhance a range of BAP of the Freemantle Forest and Highclere Chase (the name of which still exists today habitats. for the woodland northeast of Wooton Hill). From the 14th century onwards woodland was gradually cleared for agriculture through the process of assarting. 5.5 There are over 100 SINCs within this LCA varying in size. The Great Pen Wood (78 th 67 Hectares) is one of the largest and has been designated because a significant Many of the pre 18 century enclosure patterns seen today are irregular in pattern proportion of the woodland consists of surviving ancient and semi-natural woodland. suggesting a gradual process of enclosure in the medieval period overseen by large Other notable SINCs include Sydmonton Common and Lower Burnoak Copse landowners such as the Bishops of Winchester. In areas where there were poor which consist of ancient and semi-natural woodland. These woods retain significant soils it appears that early clearance resulted in some areas reverting to open remnants of heathland vegetation which could enable their recovery. There are also heathland and common grazing. This is reflected in the remnant areas of heathland and common which can be found in the central and eastern parts of this character a high numbers of ancient woodland associated and unimproved grassland type th SINCs. Herbert Plantation LNR is amixed lowland woodland to the south of area. In the 19 century a number of small parks and gardens developed, Burghclere Common. particularly in the western part of this character area e.g. Woolton House and Hollington House; possibly as a result of the railway line reaching Newbury. There also appears to be some reorganisation of fields around these small estates to create 6.0 Historic Character 67 6.1 Archaeology areas of more regular field patterns . 6.1.1 Limited evidence from the Mesolithic occurs above the streams and is sufficient to suggest exploitation of this area in that period. There is no evidence of Neolithic 6.2.2 In the centre of this character area a different pattern has emerged due to the settlement, although some finds have been made in the Enborne valley and close to creation of the Highclere deer park, the northernmost of thirteen deer parks held by the Bishops of Winchester66 and Chase in the Medieval period. Parts of the Park the southern edge of this area. As there is considerable evidence of Neolithic th exploitation on the chalk, it seems likely that this area was not settled in the Pale remain as evident features in the landscape today. Since the 16 century the Neolithic and was exploited from adjacent areas. The distribution of archaeological park and estate have undergone various changes including the rebuilding of the evidence indicates a similar trend during the Bronze Age and Iron Age periods. Bishops Palace and the later remodelling of Highclere Castle in the Elizabethan style Overall, the dispersed settlement and the multiple tracks and paths found in this by Sir Charles Barry, as well as the re-design of the grounds by Capability Brown. landscape seem to suggest that it has only relatively recently evolved and for much Today the building is an imposing site that dominates the extensive parkland. The of prehistory was extensively and not intensively exploited. estate exerts a strong influence on the character of land adjacent and is a defining characteristic of this part of the character area.

Hampshire County 5 Status: Final May 2012 Hampshire County 6 Status: Final May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase

6.2.3 The wooded and common areas to the north of Highclere Park experienced more area is the emergence of large stable blocks associated with farmsteads reflecting the dramatic changes in the 19th and 20th centuries as a result of conifer plantations. growth of horse rearing and proximity to Newbury. Further east other areas of common have become wooded as a result of limited grazing. The former extent of common land across this landscape is evident from 6.3.4 Traditionally buildings in this part of Hampshire would have been of timber framed the patches of former common that can occasionally be found fossilised within construction. Evidence of this early architectural style can be seen in some of the village greens such as Headley and Burghclere and Earlstone Commons and the older listed properties within the area and a number reflect later infill of timber presence of formal field patterns form 19th century enclosures over common such as frame with brick which became a more common building material from the late 17th north of Ball Hill and Newtown. century onwards. Bricks would have been made using local clay resources giving rise to a distinctive soft orange colour. Today red brick is the dominant building 6.2.4 Other land use changes in the last 50 years have included the proliferation of pony material within this character area, although sometimes blue/grey burnt headers are paddocks and stud farms in part as a result of the proximity of Newbury but equally used. The bricks used in recent housing have come from outside the area and have a in relation to the growth in dispersed housing. This trend has in places increased different colour hue to those in the historic buildings. Weatherboarding, usually the general perception of gentrification and urbanisation of the area. black with some timber framed walls and brick infilling is common on traditional farm buildings/barns. Although many of the older buildings would originally have had 6.3 Built Environment red tile roofs or thatch, the majority of roofs now use Welsh slate reflecting the 6.3.1 This landscape is traversed by a high density of minor lanes which connect the arrival of the railways and easy transportation of this non-local building material. dispersed settlement pattern, although parkland areas such as Highclere Park and woodland plantations/common to the north have limited road access. This density 6.3.5 To the north of the area, the small hamlet of Newton comprises a cluster of historic of roads coupled with tracks and paths is unusual and a striking aspect of this buildings with a variety of building types including timber framed, brick, tall brick landscape thought to have arisen as a result of the process of enclosure from chimneys and mostly clay tiled roofs. In this settlement the church is an important commons and woodland, where rights of way have survived in the enclosed focal point with its broached spire. landscape and where the change has been incremental. The rural lanes are often narrow and flanked by hedgerows and banks, some of which are sunken in the eastern part of the character area, and their character contrasts with the major roads of the A34 and A343, which cut through the centre of this area connecting with Newbury and Winchester.

6.3.2 Much of the settlement in this landscape reflects increases in population in the last 50 years through the growth of suburban development adjoining villages and through the development of a scattered housing pattern associated with pony paddocks. The more historic settlement pattern is likely to date back to the medieval period and disafforestation of Freemantle Forest. The use of ‘end’ in place names is often linked to settlements that developed in the Middle Ages which were associated with small areas of common e.g. East End and North End (both of which have Conservation Areas) and Newtown. However, settlement at this time is unlikely to have been dense or nucleated but more likely comprised a dispersed pattern of mainly farms and hamlets. Conservation areas also cover the settlement of East Woodhay, and the northern part of the Highclere Estate.

6.3.3 The process of medieval forest clearance and the sheep-corn system of agriculture which this area later supported gave rise to a dispersed pattern of small farms and some important large estates. Farmsteads contain a mixture of buildings including barns, granaries and stables. Commonly granaries are timber framed and raised off the ground on staddle stones. In itself this landscape was not a large grain producing area so the presence of granaries demonstrates the strong historical cultural and land use links of this area with the chalk landscape to the south. There is a high proportion of 19th century farmsteads, with buildings predominantly of brick construction, and 17th century origin steadings along the boundary with the chalk and upper greensand to the south and south west. Also specific to this character

Hampshire County 7 Status: Final May 2012 Hampshire County 8 Status: Final May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase

EVALUATION 7.3 Mosaic of land uses and habitats including agricultural land, pockets of heathland, 7.0 Forces for Change extensive woodland, wetlands, grassland and scrub which create an intimate and diverse 1. Land management changes and alternation to parkland landscapes, landscape of high scenic quality. particularly associated with the intensification of agriculture. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES 2. New development; farming and village related. CHANGE: 3. Climate change, potentially affecting groundwater and stream levels, Most influence: Threats: farming practices and rates of tree loss. 1.2.3.5 Past (and potential future) loss of ecological diversity of agricultural land and woodland due to 4. Potential development of masts and other vertical structures. poor management and intensification of agricultural practices. 5. Potential future mineral working (safeguarded areas for sand & gravel) Decline in the extent of heathland due to poor management (scrub invasion), and past conversion to forestry or agriculture. Parkland/hedgerow tree loss du e to over-maturity & exacerbated by drought/climate change. KEY QUALITIES AND EFFECTS OF FORCES Recent increase in paddocks/stud farms leading to rank grassland, poorly managed field 7.1 boundaries, and non-traditional fencing and building materials, and reduction of scenic quality. High density of rural lanes, tracks and footpaths is a striking aspect of this landscape and Climate change may reduce the flow of water from springs rising at the base of the chalk hills provides public access into this relatively tranquil area. leading to changes in wetland habitats and landscape character. Loss of biodiversity (particularly heathland)/scenic quality du e to future sand/gravel extraction. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES CHANGE: Opportunities: Most influence: Threats: Target agri-environment (and other grant) schemes to encourage retention of ecological 1.2 Potential reduction of quality or density of public rights of way and common land as a result of diversity in agricultural areas and linking of heathland areas, and traditional woodland neglect, changes in land use or new development. management (e.g. hazel coppicing; use of wood pasture) in accordance with AONB Conflicts of interest between motorists and non-motorists on roads and public rights of way. management plan. Potential increased urbanisation of rural lanes to accommodate increased traffic and safety Increasing the biodiversity of conifer plantations through planting of deciduous native species. features (for example additional signage, concrete kerbs, hedgerow loss etc). Monitoring of veteran trees in hedgerows/parkland and planting replacements as necessary. Use of minerals planning policy and conditions to ensure future extraction is not detrimental. Opportunities: CAP actions, particularly encouragement of access into the countryside from towns and 7.4 villages, maintenance of public rights of way, resolution of conflicts of interests between user Strong sense of time-depth due to historic landscape features including woodland, assarts, groups, production of publicity and education material, and working with landowners to encourage greater public access. parkland, deer park pales, fishponds, heathlands and commons. Increasing public use of open access land on commons and in accessible forested areas. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES Potential use of the Rural Roads Initiative to encourage the retention rural lane character, CHANGE: whilst meeting Highways standards i.e. management of road verges and hedgebanks. Most influence: Threats: 1.2.3.4.5 Alteration to the character and quality of historic parkland landscapes due to building change 7.2 resulting in development of car parks or ornamental planting beds. A strong visual, cultural and physical association with the chalk escarpment to the south, Change of parkland land use from pastoral to arable. which contrasts with the woodland mosaic pattern within the Character Area. Potential new development or agricultural practices damaging the historic features of the landscape, or insensitively adding suburbanising elements e.g. fencing, signage, lighting. FORCES FOR CONSEQUENCES Damage to historic landscape features by future mineral extraction. CHANGE: Climate change may impact on species composition of woodlands, hedgerows, heaths and Most influence: Threats: other living features of the historic landscape. 1.3.4 Potential inappropriately-sited masts or other tall structures on the chalk escarpment, which Potential insensitive sitting of masts and other tall structures may damage vistas across would be highly visible from the surrounding lowlands. designed landscapes, or otherwise alter the historic character of landscapes. Future degradation of lowland woodland mosaic landscapes (possibly exacerbated by climate Opportunities: change), reducing the contrast between lowlands and chalk. Carry out conservation management plans as appropriate for parkland landscapes. Use planning policy and conditions to ensure sensitive sitting of masts and other tall Opportunities: structures, avoiding or minimising damage to historic landscape features and views. Use of planning policies and conditions to ensure that any potential masts and other tall/ large Manage and retain hedgerows and historic field patterns. scale structures are sited as sensitively as possible to minimise visual intrusion. Use local level assessments su ch as Villag e Desig n Statemen ts and planning policies to identify Promote good agricultural and woodland management (for example AONB management plan) and retain local distinctiveness in terms of materials, design and location of development. to retain the traditional pattern of the landscape. Promote active management (in line with AONB management plan) to encourage species Maintenance of uninterrupted views of the scarp to retain the strong “sense of place”. diversity and health of vegetation in woodlands and heaths/commons to counter possible effects of climate change. Use of minerals planning policies and conditions to ensure that any future working for minerals does not adversely affect historic landscape features.

Hampshire County 10 Status: Final May 2012 Hampshire County 9 Status: Final May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase Integrated Character Assessment Highclere Chase

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