Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
GARTH WORKS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
TAFF’S WELL
Landscape and Visual Assessment
JULY 2013
Corscadden Associates 77 Fairleigh Road Cardiff CF11 9JW 02920 373053 [email protected]
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Assessment Methodology: 2.1 General Background 2.2 Landscape Assessment Criteria 2.3 Visual Landscape Criteria
3.0 Baseline Studies: 3.1 Study Area and Context 3.2 Landscape Character 3.3 Analysis of the Landscape 3.4 Conclusion on Landscape Analysis 3.5 Landscape Policy and Designations 3.6 Visual Appraisal 3.7 Summary Site & Description 3.8 Mitigation
4.0 Landscape Assessment 4.1 Approach & Method 4.2 Effects on Physical Landscape 4.3 Visibility & Viewpoint Analysis Viewpoint 1 to 8 and Internal Panorama 4.4 Effects on Landscape character 4.5 Effects on Designated Landscapes 4.6 Effects on Recreational Users
5.0 Conclusion on Significance of Effects on Landscape Character & Visual Amenity 5.1 Significance of Effects on the Physical Landscape 5.2 Significance of Effects on Visual Amenity 5.3 Significance of Effects on Landscape Character
6.0 Landscape Strategy
References Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council – Local Development Plan Cardiff County Council – Unitary development Plan CCW Landmap Information Guidance Note 1, 2008 Ecological Assessment August 2010 : David Clemence Ecology CCW Landmap Aspect Areas
Figure List
Figure 1 Existing Features Plan Figure 2 Landscape Character Plan and UDP Countryside Designations Figure 3 Predicted Zones of Visual Influence + Viewpoint Locations Figure 4 Topography Figure 5 Viewpoints 1 & 2 Figure 6 Viewpoints 3 & 4 Figure 7 Viewpoints 5 & 6 Figure 8 Viewpoints 7 & 8 Figure 9 Landscape Strategy Figure 10-15 Photosheets 1-6 Existing Features
Appendix 1 Tree Survey Rev 31 May 2013 : David Rice Forestry
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
1.0 Introduction
This Landscape and Visual Assessment report describes the landscape character of the study area and evaluates the visual amenity and landscape of the site. The effects of the proposed development on the physical landscape characteristics of the site and on the landscape character and visual amenity of the site and its setting are assessed.
This report considers Plots 1A, 1B, 1C & 2 located to the east of the Moy Road in Taff s Well in the Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough of Glamorgan near Cardiff. For the purpose of this report individual plots will be referred to collectively as 'the site'.
The site is proposed for redevelopment as a residential area with associated public open space.
The individual plots comprising the site are refer to Figure 1 Existing Features. Garth Works – mixed industrial, Plots 1A, 1B, 1C & 2. Plot 1A is in the south of the site and Plot 2 in the north of the site.
This report should be read in conjunction with Ecological Assessment by David Clements Ecology Ltd – Moy Road Industrial Estates and the Tree Survey revised 31 May 2013 by David Rice Forestry.
The visibility of the site is determined and the significance of the effects of the inclusion of any future development on the landscape character and visual amenity identified. Conclusions are drawn on the ability of the surrounding landscape to absorb future development on the site.
A landscape and visual assessment was undertaken by Corscadden Associates in September 2010 and this has been revised in July 2013.
2.0 Assessment Methodolgy
2.1 General Background
The methodology used to assess the landscape and visual effects of the proposed development follows where possible current ‘best practice’ guidance published by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2002) and in guidance on landscape character assessment published by the Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage (2002). This later guidance replaced the previous landscape assessment guidance published by the Countryside Commission as CCP423 (1993). In Wales, the Countryside Council for Wales promotes LANDMAP as a method of mapping and evaluating the landscape in terms of aspects that contribute to the whole.
The process follows a standard approach using Baseline Studies to:
identify the components, designations, character and quality of the landscape most likely to be affected by any future development; identify the type and potential sensitivity of visual receptors most likely to be affected by the proposed development; identify potential effects brought about by any proposed development on landscape frontage character and visual receptors through desk study and field work; judge the magnitude of effects and assessment of their significance.
2.2 Landscape Assessment Criteria
Relevant landscape character areas and elements have been identified and assessed in terms of their quality, value and sensitivity to change. This requires the application of professional judgement, both subjective and objective, in respect of a range of factors that define the landscape including (refer to Figure 2):
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
• acknowledged landscape designations; • scenic quality of individual landscape character areas and their constituent parts; • landscape condition including land management, vegetation and other features; • notable features of historical, architectural, geological or biodiversity importance; • reference to any specific cultural associations; • past and present perceptions of local value.
For the purpose of this assessment, landscape quality of the proposed site and local environs are categorised in Table 2.1. Magnitude of Effect on the landscape resource (i.e. landscape features, character and quality) is categorised as high, medium, low and negligible and defined in Table 2.2.
The level of significance of effect upon the landscape resource is determined by correlating the magnitude of effect with the quality of the resource. Table 2.3 illustrates this correlation exercise.
Table 2.1: Landscape Quality Categories
Exceptional Quality: Areas of especially high, acknowledged quality through designation as AONB’s or other landscape based sensitive area. Of landscape significance within the wider region or nationally. High Quality: Areas that have a very strong positive character with valued and consistent distinctive features t the landscape unity, richness and harmony. Of landscape significance within the district. Moderate Quality: Areas that exhibit positive character but which may have evidence of alteration/ degradation or erosion of features resulting in a less distinctive landscape. May be of some local significance with some positive recognizable structure. Low Quality: Areas that are generally negative in character, degraded and in poor condition. No distinctive positive characteristics and with little or no structure. Scope for positive enhancement.
Table 2.2: Magnitude of Effect
High Magnitude: Substantial loss or major alteration to key elements of the landscape resource such that there is fundamental change. Medium Magnitude: Loss of, or alteration to, elements of the landscape resource such that there is partial change. Low Magnitude: Minor alteration to the landscape resource where there may be some slight perception of change. Negligible Magnitude: Very minor alteration to the landscape resource with no perceived change.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Table 2.3: Matrix of Significance of Effect upon Landscape
Magnitude Townscape & Seascape Quality Exceptional High Moderate Low High Magnitude Substantial Major High/Moderate Moderate Medium Major High/Moderate Moderate Minor Magnitude Low Magnitude Moderate Moderate Minor Minor/Neutral Negligible Minor Minor/Neutral Minor/Neutral Neutral Magnitude
2.3 Visual Landscape Criteria
To establish the visual significance of the site, representative views have been selected within the Predicted Zones of Visual Influence (refer to Figure 3). The significance of effects on visual amenity is defined by the relative sensitivity of the viewpoint receptor and the magnitude of change.
In addition Figures 5 to 8 Viewpoints 1-8 have been included as background information as to site visibility. Figure 3 also gives a visibility assessment of the views towards the site. Figures 10-15 give details of Existing Features of Plot 1 and 2.
Sensitivity of receptors to change in the landscape from a given viewpoint will depend on several factors including:
• the type and number of receptors experiencing the view • land use and activity at the given viewpoint location • frequency of use of the location • landscape quality, rarity and designation at the receptor
Scale of the landscape and context of the view receptor type is a key factor in determining sensitivity of the viewpoint, although other factors can influence the sensitivity of the given receptor to visual change. In general terms, those people that live or work within view of the development or visitors that take part in outdoor pursuits within the area, such as walking or jogging, for which landscape experience is a primary objective are regarded as the highest sensitivity group of receptors. For the purpose of assessment, the sensitivity of different receptors can be broadly categorised as shown in Table 2.4. It should be stressed that this is a general theoretical framework for the purpose of evaluation only. There will always be exceptions to the broad categorisations set out in these tables. Magnitude of change to an existing view is determined by a number of interrelated factors, including: • distance between the proposed development and the receptor; • prominence of the development in views; • extent visible; • the height of the development relative to the receptor; • proportion of the field of view occupied by the development; • other vertical features, e.g. pylons, telecom masts, existing built development etc. • the backdrop to the development in the view;
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
• nature of the foreground in the view. Magnitude of effect on visual amenity (i.e. views and visual appreciation and enjoyment of the landscape) is categorised as high, medium, low and negligible and is defined in Table 2.5. The level of significance of effect upon visual amenity is determined by correlating the magnitude of effect with the sensitivity of the receptor. Table 2.6 illustrates this correlation exercise. For both landscape and visual effects, the level of significance derived from the correlation exercises outlined above is a measure of the theoretical significance of the effect. A combination of common sense and professional judgement has to be applied either to confirm the theoretical position or to adjust the outcome according to particular circumstances. Table 2.4: Sensitivity of Receptors High Sensitivity: Residents, where their main view is of the development, or people taking recreation where the landscape within which the development is seen is the primary reason for attraction (e.g. walkers, joggers) and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the view.
Medium Sensitivity: Outdoor workers and people undertaking recreational pursuits where the landscape within which the development is seen is not the primary reason for attraction (e.g. golfers, water based activities, theme and adventure parks, historic sites, parks and gardens, minor road users). Residents where their aspect of the development is secondary. Receptors are less likely to be within a recognized designated landscape and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the facilities and features of the particular attraction.
Low Sensitivity: People travelling through the landscape (by car, train, bus etc.) between origins and destinations for reasons unrelated to the landscape within which the development is seen. Users of indoor workplaces and indoor community facilities. Receptors are unlikely to be within a recognized designated landscape and are most likely to be present at a given viewpoint by virtue of some other need or necessity unrelated to the landscape.
Table 2.5: Magnitude of Effect on Visual Amenity High Magnitude: Substantial loss or major alteration to key elements of the view experienced such that there is fundamental change. Medium Magnitude: Loss of, or alteration to, elements within the view experienced such that there is partial change. Low Magnitude: Minor alteration to the view experienced where there may be some slight perception of change. Negligible Magnitude: Very minor alteration to the view experienced with no perceived change.
Table 2.6: Matrix of Significance of Effect upon Visual Amenity
Magnitude Sensitivity of Receptor High Medium Low High Magnitude Major High/Moderate Moderate
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Medium Magnitude High/Moderate Moderate Minor Low Magnitude Moderate Minor Minor/Neutral Negligible Magnitude Minor Minor/Neutral Neutral
3.0 Baseline Studies
3.1 Study Area and Context The immediate study area defined for the purposes of both landscape character assessment and visual assessment the latter extending some 3km from the epicentre of the proposed development, covering an area of approximately 28km². The 3km study area was determined by the visual barriers formed by the adjacent valley slopes both east and west together with the significant reduction of visibility with distance along the valley to the north and south. The proposed site is situated within urban fringe environs of a mixture of residential and industrial elements. The study area is approximately located about Ordinance Survey grid reference ST 12552, 83287 GB Grid. The site lies along the bottom of the Taff Valley to the north-west of Cardiff. The site is bounded by the A470 to the east and to the west by the ‘Garth Works and Estate access road leading to Moy Road and the Taff Trail. The site is situated within and adjacent to the Landmap Aspect Areas: Visual and Sensory, Aspect Area CynonVS709 CynonVS596 CrdffVS078 Cultural Landscape, Aspect Area CynonCL035 CrdffCL023 Historic Landscape, Aspect Area CynonHL977 CrdffCL020 and located within the Taff’s Well settlement boundary together with having a number of adjacent and close proximity designated areas (see para 3.5 for designated areas).
3.2 Landscape Character As briefly outlined in section 2.1, the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) promotes LANDMAP for the mapping and assessment of the landscape. There are detailed published LANDMAP assessments covering the study area and therefore for the purpose of this particular study LANDMAP has been used to identify character areas. Consequently Landmap Area ID’s for Visual and Sensory aspects have been used for those areas near and adjacent to the site (see Figure 2 for Landscape Character Plan).
The site is directly located within the following Landmap Aspect Areas:
Aspect - Visual and Sensory.
Area Unique ID: CynonVS709. Region: Bridgend/Caerphilly/Rhondda.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Aspect Area Classification: Development/Built Land/Urban.
Summary Description Series of towns/villages set within a larger valley landscape. dominant form is the transport corridors that pick out the valley trend running along the valley floor. development on valley floor and valley sides. some views up to upland areas on valley tops. traffic noise from the A4054 and A473 is constant background sensory factor in central areas adjacent to road corridors.
Evaluation Criteria: Overall Evaluation. Low (no qualities of merit, visual and sensory qualities dominated by the unattractive views of built form and traffic noise from several main roads).
Area Unique ID: CynonVS596. Region: Bridgend/Caerphilly/Rhondda. Aspect Area Classification: Development/Developed Unbuilt Land/Road Corridor.
Summary Description Trunk road with 2 lanes going in each direction. embankments and cuttings with dense structure planting, bordered by crash barriers. overbridges punctuate the dominant linearity of the road as it cuts through a largely built up landscape with little integration.
Evaluation Criteria: Overall Evaluation Low (the moderate and rarity are for ''negative'' qualities (noise, man made structure that cuts across the landscape fabric, therefore of some distinction) and as such are not seen as relevant to overall value.
Comment: Due to the mature vegetation running along their respective embankments the A470 trunk road together with the additional linear features of the Taff Railway, Taff River and A4054, provide strong visual barriers in the locality. Recent highway work alongside the slip road and A470 has involved tree clearance and thinning which has reduced the screening effect of vegetation to east side of the site. Refer to the Tree Survey 31 May 2013 and Figures 10-15 Photosheets 1-6 Existing Features.
Aspect - Cultural.
Area Unique ID: CynonCL035. Region: Bridgend/Caerphilly/Rhondda. Aspect Area Classification: Influences/Material expressions/Industrial/Other Industry.
Summary Description: Treforest Industrial Estate (established under the Special Areas Act 1934) is one of the earliest such in Wales, and represents the basis of the economic powerhouse in the Taff Vale north of Cardiff, and is home of the centre for development, inward investment and regeneration for Wales. There are few parts of Wales that have not felt the effects of the Agency''s ministrations. Set just inside the Objective 1 area of West Wales and the Valleys, the area is again subject to expansion with the development of business premises at Nantgarw, itself renowned for the
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
presence of the Nantgarw Pottery - now a museum absorbed into a new commercial and business estate.
Evaluation Criteria: Overall Evaluation ‘Outstanding (Outstanding as the economic and regeneration area).
Comment: This evaluation was made prior to current economic difficulties and the industrial base of this area is changing..
Aspect - Historic.
Area Unique ID: CynonHL977. Region: Bridgend/Caerphilly/Rhondda. Aspect Area Classification: Built environment/Settlement/Nucleated Settlement
Summary Description A heavily industrialised urban aspect area representing a transport and communications corridor between the docks to the south, and the industrial valley''s to the north. The aspect area follows the Afon Tâf from Abercynon in the north to Taffs Well in the south. People chose this area as a place to settle from the Neolithic into the present. A rare polished Neolithic stone axe found at Pontypridd attests to this early occupation. The seceding period is represented by funerary cairns adorning the elevated slopes of Cwm Tâf. Much of the valley was an enclosed fieldscape during the early post-medieval period, with many surviving houses. The town of Pontypridd stands at the confluence of the Rivers Taff and Rhondda, and grew as communication routes developed up through the valleys. The famous bridge over the Taff, completed in 1756, which still today stands at the centre of the town, remained in rural isolation for half a century. The construction in 1791-5 of the canal from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil, followed by the turnpike road, produced the first buildings in the area. In 1816 Brown Lenox, the famous makers of chains and anchors established its principal works here. Foundation dates of chapels chart the settlement''s growth: Baptist 1811, Calvinistic Methodist 1817, Independent 1832. In 1841 the Taff Vale Railway arrived. By the 1840s Pontypridd was the major market town for Rhondda. By 1870 the population was 8,000; twenty-five years later it had reached 31,000, reflecting the mining boom that was taking place all along the Rhondda valleys over that period. Though ringed by mines and other industry, the town attracted a substantial middle class. Their villas still adorn the steep side of Coed-y-lan to the northwest of the town. The high point of Pontypridd''s urban pride was reached in 1902 when a prestigious London architect was commissioned to design the District Council Offices. Still today, the town''s architecture is predominantly late Victorian and Edwardian.
Evaluation Criteria: Overall Evaluation This area has been assessed as being of outstanding value based on the fact that it represents a long-established industrial/communications corridor of considerable historic importance, including significant, nationally important remains of early industrial activity, represented by the Pontypridd Bridge and the Glamorganshire Canal.
Comment: The site area under direct consideration is at the southern tip of this Aspect Area and represents a minor element in the overall historic area. It can be argued that the historic
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
significance of the site has been significantly reduced by the present 20 century industrial units presently occupying the site and surrounding area.
In addition Visual and Sensory Landmap Aspect Areas that are adjacent to the above core Landmap areas are:
To the east: Area Unique ID: CynonVS271 Overall evaluation: Moderate (Coniferous plantations and views out onto urban areas detract from the value. The area does have visually attractive elements. To the south: Area Unique ID: CrdffVS016 Overall evaluation: High - A dramatic sloping rise with trees and Castell Coch a prominent feature, visible from south and west, complementing Garth Hill to the west. Small pastures and open spaces complement the woodland. Generally fairly well managed with consistent character and limited detractors. Distinctive steep wooded slopes on prominent location where Taff valley meets the coastal plain enhanced by Castell Coch. Substantial woodlands on steep slopes.
To the west: Area Unique ID: CrdffVS005 Overall evaluation: High - A dramatic sloping rise with trees a prominent feature, visible from south and east complementing Garth Hill. Small pastures complement the woodland. Generally fairly well managed with consistent character and limited detractors. The strong topography and local undulations combined with tree cover give the woodland a strong character. Substantial woodlands are moderately rare. Area Unique ID: CrdffVS078 and CrdffVS077 Overall evaluation: High - Traditional village core is attractive with distinctive buildings and coherent village street. The village is well maintained and the core has coherence due to its quarry working heritage but expansion does not reflect traditional character of core. The core character has strong sense of place because of its association with Garth Hill quarries. The village is distinctive but has similarities with other quarry associated villages.
To the north: Area Unique ID: CynonVS572 Overall evaluation: Moderate – A pleasant, in part attractive/parkland character area although compromised by urban edge.
3.3 Analysis of landscape value within the site and its environs
The site and setting The site is situated in an urban environment near the village of Taffs Well. The site runs along the bottom of the Taff Valley to the north-west of the city of Cardiff at an elevation of approximately 36m AOD. The plots are arranged following the valley bottom in a roughly a north- south alignment. The site lies within the Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council area and close to the boundary with Cardiff City Council area.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
The site is located within an area of generally modern industrial and commercial development bounded to the east by the busy A470 and further east the Taff Trail, the latter running along a disused railway line. To the west the site is bounded by the main Taff Valley railway line, between Cardiff and Merthyr Tydfil, together with housing located along the Cardiff Road and the River Taff beyond this. There is open rising countryside with scattered settlement to the east beyond the A470, whilst on the western boundary immediately to the west of the railway lie residential areas of the village together with the A4054 trunk road and the wooded banks of the River Taff. The village, which also extends a little to the west of the river, is otherwise surrounded by more-or-less open countryside comprising mainly of broadleaved woodland slopes and pastures. Residential and commercial industrial areas lie immediately adjacent to the north and south of the site. There is very little semi-natural vegetation within the site. This mainly comprises buildings and hardstandings. That vegetation which is present comprises woodland, scrub, grass and perennial vegetation. With regards to individual plots refer to Figure 1 Existing Features, Figures 10-15 Existing Features Photosheets for Plots 1 (A, B and C) and 2 and the Tree Survey 31 May 2013. The plot details are as follows;
PLOTS 1 AND 2 Plots 1 and 2 are bounded by the A470 to the east together with some mature vegetation on the A470 verge. Moy Road and the park and ride railway station bound the site to the west for two thirds of its length. The remaining third is the old railway embankment which is a cycleway footpath and crosses the A470 by an old railway bridge. This is part of the Taff Trail. The embankments slope down to the site area. A second footpath and footbridge directly abut the northern tip of the site and go through a tunnel under the Taff Trail and exit on to Moy Road near a roundabout. Plots 1 and 2 forming the site area are an ovoid shape with pointed ends. An Ecological Assessment and Tree Survey were undertaken in 2010. The Tree Survey has been revised in May 2013. The principles of the Ecology Assessment and plant species noted are likely to be little changed from the 2010 report. The Tree Survey has noted changes since 2013 and these are • highway works which have resulted in clearance and thinning works on A470 narrow tree belt abutting the site. • Increased deterioration of trees in the north and east woodland block areas on lower slopes of the embankment and abutting the site near the footbridge. o collapsing Goat Willows, o a strangled Ash tree, o a collapsing Hawthorn o increased colonisation of Buddleia. o Littering in the woodland
Existing Vegetation within the site is limited to • T1 an Ash tree to be removed to facilitate the development within the centre of Plot 2. • At the entrance with Moy Road are groups G2-G6 of Norway Maples within planting beds or paved areas. All are A1 prime condition very high value trees. Their location as indicated is provisional only. The recommendation of the Tree Survey is to retain these trees where possible. • G9 is a scrub tree block at the southern most point tip of the site. The Ash tree is largest tree in this group. No maintenance has been undertaken in this area and Japanese Knotweed occurs within this group area.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
• Part of G14 is the northern most tip of the site area and the recommendation for this area is to coppice collapsed Goat Willow, Hawthorn and kill Buddleia. All other existing vegetation is off site but abutting the site area with overhanging canopies and limited root spread beneath hardstanding areas. These are as follows • G7 the woodland block on the eastern railway embankment. The tree cover at the top of the embankment are Birch, Hazel, Dogwood, Ash, Hawthorn and Sycamore and these line the Taff Trail. The embankment is steep and the lower slopes behind the palisade fence have accumulated litter over the years. The lower slopes are dominated by Buddleia, collapsed Goat Willow and covered with wild Clematis. The recommendations are to control the wild Clematis, coppice Goat Willow and kill Buddleia and replant with native tree and shrub species. • G14 Off site at the north near footbridge and abutting the site at the northern point has the same recommendations as G7. • G8 is the Tree Belt along the A470 verge to the east of the site and since recent highway works is divided into three sections. The first South section has been cleared and only a few bushes and small trees remain. Some on the actual boundary line. The second a Middle section which is unchanged and is a line of mature trees Sycamore, Elder, Ash, Common Alder, Apple and Buddleia. The third section is a thinned gap line of trees. The G8 narrow strip is therefore variable and gapped in sections and forms a partial and weak screen to the A470. The Nant Y Brynau is exposed in a short section of the A470 verge and this exposed stream section has Japanese Knotweed present along its length. Knotweed is also present coming through the metal fence in Plot 2 on the east boundary and is probably spreading into the site from the A470 verge where stands can be clearly seen. Plots 1A to 1C are overlooked from the road bridge crossing the A470 to the south of the site and by users of the slip road going down to the A470. The Unit roofs are partially seen from the footbridge crossing the A470 by the top of Plot 2. Plot 2 and part Plot 1 are visible as the Taff Trail ramps down to Moy Road. The larger buildings occupying the plots have a modern steel frame construction while there are a number of surrounding smaller building, structures are predominantly mid 20 century.
3.4 Conclusion of the Landscape Analysis
Existing landscape within the site is of Low Quality and as such presently expresses the sites industrial heritage. With regard to Landmap’s Visual and Sensory Aspect Areas landscape quality within the surrounding environs and beyond varies however from High to Medium. Urban development are also patchy with regard to quality. Overall Landscape quality however is considered to be High with regard to the surrounding valley areas.
Table 3.1: Summary of Landscape Quality within the Study Area Character Area Landscape Quality Comments
Land adjacent to Moy Road, High Although the landscape within the site is low Taff’s Well e surrounding areas vary from medium to high.
3.5 Landscape Policy and Designations
There are no Statutory Designated areas crossing the site. Adjacent designated areas are listed below (see Figure 2) and Ecological Assessment.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Within the Cardiff County Council boundary: Special Landscape Areas: SLA2 The Garth Hill Uplands & the Pentyrch Ridges and Valleys. SLA3 The Fforest Fawr & Caerphilly Ridge.
Within the Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council boundary: Special Landscape Area: SSA23.9 Craig yr Allt
Sites of Special Scientific Interest Three Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) occur within a 1km radius of the centre of the Site. These are Coed y Bedw SSSI, Castell Coch Woodlands & Road Section SSSI and Garth Wood SSSI.
The location and more detailed description of these SSSI sites are shown on Plan 1 of the Ecological Assessment. Sites of Important Nature Conservation: SINC156 Gilfach Goch Slopes SINC157 Nant Ciwc SINC159 Cwn Llanbad SINC 130 Taff and Rhonda rivers The River Taff is the main river in the borough and is a major source of biodiversity in the area. The river supports kingfisher, salmon, otters, sand martin and brown trout.
SINC 146 Ty-Rhiw Woodlands and Penrhos Cutting This is an extensive area of semi-natural woodland, with smaller amounts of ancient woodland. It ranges from oak-ash-sycamore and beech woodland to wet alder carr on the wetter ground. There are also areas of open grassland on the old railway sidings.
SINC 145 Fforest Fawr This is part of a much larger area of ancient and replanted ancient woodland. It includes a remnant of native beech wood, a larger area of mixed deciduous and several conifer plantations. The locations of sites 130,146,145 are shown on Plan 1 of the Ecological Assessment..
In addition to the above designations the site lies within the Taff’s Well Settlement Boundary.
There are no public rights of way across individual plots. There are public footpaths at the side of Moy Road and other adjacent roads. The footpath/cycleway using the disused railway line is the Taff Trail and is on Plot 2’s north and north east boundary.
There are no TPO’s on or adjacent to individual plots.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
There are Japanese Knotweed infestations on the site on Plots 1 and 2 and in all cases the Knotweed is confined to boundary areas. Any treatment programme should include the road verges if long term control and eradication is to be achieved.
There is no evidence of archaeology on the site although further study using the local archaeological trust will need to be undertaken prior to any proposed development.
3.6 Visual Appraisal
Landscape features (such as buildings, other built structures, trees), topography and local landform all influence the extent of views within the landscape. Whether views are short (under 1km), medium (2-3km), long distance (4km+), enclosed and intimate or unrestricted and panoramic depends on the interaction of landform with surface features. The ZVI shows views of the site generally limited to within a 3 kilometre radius (See Figure 3). The extent of visibility within each area varies according to the relationship between landform and features and is summarised in Table 3.2 below. Table 3.2: Visibility within Character Areas Character Area Visual Appraisal and Key Influencing Factors See Fig 3 for zone of visibility Local inward views are constrained by boundary features including vegetation and urban structures. Medium and distant views towards the site are limited by topography and vegetation. Clear views are in general limited to distant points where visual integration of the site within the surrounding urban settlement becomes dominant.
3.7 Summary and Site Description
The proposed development will be located (See Figure 1) on land that is already heavily contextualize by urban development. Opportunities do however exist for the screening of any proposed residential development by either the existing vegetation, buildings and topography or more importantly the proposed enhancement of existing and or new vegetation.
3.9 Mitigation ( See section 6 for Landscape Strategy) There is scope for mitigating the visual impact of any development. Mitigation measures would include: • Native broadleaf tree and shrub planting. Existing landscape elements to be used as design pointers with regard to new landscape proposals. • Retention and where possible consolidation of existing vegetation on site boundaries and internally to help mitigate views, both with regard to near distance and longer distance views of the site.
4.0 Landscape and Visual Assessment
4.1 Approach and Method This section of the report establishes the potential effects brought about by any proposed development on landscape character and visual amenity. Judgement of the magnitude of effects and assessment of their significance is made on the basis of the significance criteria for landscape visual assessment set out in sub-section 2.0 above, and the analysis of landscape
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
character and judgement of quality given in sub-section 3.4. The assessment considers the following issues: • potential effects on the physical landscape; • potential effects on landscape character; • potential effects on visual amenity; • potential effects on designated landscapes; • an overall evaluation of the significance of potential effects of the development on the landscape, on visual amenity and on residential amenity. The assessment is assisted by: • a visibility analysis to identify the potential extent of the development‘s visibility; • a viewpoint analysis to assess the potential effect on viewers at representative locations.
4.2 Effects on Physical Landscape During the construction period of the development, the activities likely to affect the physical landscape include: • establishment of site huts and associated equipment; • removal of existing buildings and surface material. • construction of buildings and roads and laying of associated services. The main physical effects of the construction activity on the landscape would be the removal of the existing scrubland and spoil heaps and the construction of the buildings and roads required for the development.
4.3 Visibility & Viewpoint Analysis (see Figures 5 to 8) To assess the visual impact of the proposed development on users, 8 viewpoints have been selected. The viewpoints were chosen as being representative of publicly accessible land within ZVI radius of the site of approximately 3 km . It should be noted that the viewpoints chosen have been selected to illustrate the presence of the site in the landscape rather than to show the screening effect of buildings, landform and other landscape features. Although views shown are representative, they are not necessarily fully comprehensive. As mentioned previously, the viewpoints are publicly accessible. However, the constraints of the location need to be taken into account, for example buildings, vegetation and local obstacles can obscure clear views to the site and restrict panoramic views. Taking these factors into account, the area was thoroughly explored to find the most suitable location for the photograph to be taken from. The Viewpoint Analysis below summarises the location of each viewpoint while Figure 3 illustrates the location of each viewpoint on the OS 1:25,000 Map it also indicates the visibility assessment summary of the viewpoints.
Viewpoint 1: Looking south from Eglwysilian Road, just north of Pen-y-Groes Farm OS grid ref: ST 119 873 Distance from site: Approx. 4.2 K Landscape character: Upper slopes of open bracken with lower slopes of agricultural pastureland intervened with woodland and hedgerows together with large areas of urban settlements and rolling hill backdrop. Receptor type and sensitivity: (High sensitivity) Residents, where their main view is of the development, or people taking recreation where the landscape within which the development is
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
seen is the primary reason for attraction (e.g. walkers, joggers) and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the view.. Photograph taken from a point height of 220 AOD with an open aspect towards the site. Existing view: Distant view of site mainly hidden by vegetation and terrain. Predicted view: Development obscured by vegetation, urban structures and topography. Magnitude of change: The magnitude of change on the visual amenity is considered to be of low magnitude due to distance and visual barriers. Visual impact: Minimal. Proposed mitigation: Retention and enhancement of existing boundary vegetation together with additional internal planting. Conclusion: The view should remain dominated by the existing landscape.
Viewpoint 2: Looking south-east from Garth Olwg Road, Gwaelod-Garth OS grid ref: ST 115 840 Distance from site: Approx. 1.4 K Landscape character: Urban structures with well wooded valley bottom and slopes. Receptor type and sensitivity: (High sensitivity) Residents, where their main view is of the development, or people taking recreation where the landscape within which the development is seen is the primary reason for attraction (e.g. walkers, joggers) and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the view. Photograph taken from a point height of 70 AOD with an enclosed aspect towards the site. Existing view: Open views of the site from dwellings overlooking the valley. Restricted views from within the village and roads other than occasional views between dwellings. Predicted view: Other than dwellings on the urban boundary views restricted by existing features. Magnitude of change: The magnitude of change on the visual amenity is considered to be of medium magnitude. Visual impact: Moderate. Proposed mitigation: Retention and enhancement of existing vegetation. Conclusion: View should remain predominantly as existing.
Viewpoint 3: Looking east from road running along southern side of Garth Hill OS grid ref: ST 144 838 Distance from site: Approx. 1.3 K Landscape character: Mixture of woodland slopes and pastures overlooking an open valley. Receptor type and sensitivity: : (High sensitivity) Residents, where their main view is of the development, or people taking recreation where the landscape within which the development is seen is the primary reason for attraction (e.g. walkers, joggers) and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the view. Photograph taken from a point height of 140 AOD with an open aspect of the site. Existing view: Limited views of site due to intervening vegetation including hedgerows and woodland. Predicted view: As existing with regard to existing urban spread and density. Magnitude of change: Magnitude of change considered to be low. Visual impact: Slight adverse impact. Proposed mitigation: Retention and enhancement of existing site boundary vegetation and introduction internal native tree planting. Conclusion: Enhancement of vegetation to the site will provide a stronger visual barrier.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Viewpoint 4: Looking east from further up road running along Garth Hill OS grid ref: ST 108 832 Distance from Site: 1.8 K Landscape character: A dramatic sloping rise with trees a prominent feature. Small pastures complement the woodland. Generally fairly well managed with consistent character and limited detractors. The strong topography and local undulations combined with tree cover give the woodland a strong character. Receptor type and sensitivity: (Medium sensitivity) People taking recreation where the landscape within which the development is seen is the primary reason for attraction. Photograph taken from a point height of 260 AOD with an open aspect towards the site. Considered to be of medium sensitivity due to limited views of walkers and vehicular users passing through. Existing view: Occasional open views through hedgerows. Predicted view: View of development limited by existing woodland and hedgerow features. Magnitude of change: Low with regard to the overall urban structure. Visual impact: Low. Proposed mitigation: The retention and enhancement of the existing site boundary vegetation together with internal planting. Conclusion: Sensitive layout design and enhanced landscaping will mitigate the visual impact of the any low density residential development.
Viewpoint 5: Looking north-east from Heol Goch Road west of Tynewydd OS grid ref: ST 117 829 Distance from Site: 0.9 K Landscape character: Small side valley with pastures, mature hedgerows and woodland. Receptor type and sensitivity: (Medium sensitivity) Walkers, Vehicle users. Photograph taken from a point height of 67 AOD with an enclosed aspect towards the site. Considered to be of medium sensitivity due to limited number of receptors. Existing view: Occasional open views through hedgerows. Predicted view: Severely limited by existing vegetation and terrain. Magnitude of change: Low. Visual impact: Low. Proposed mitigation: None. Conclusion: Site and topography screens site.
Viewpoint 6: Looking west from footpath leading to Abbey Close, Ty Rhiw OS grid ref: ST 128 834 Distance from Site: Approx 0.35 Landscape character: Urban development. Receptor type and sensitivity: (High sensitivity) Residents, where their main view is of the development, or people taking recreation where the landscape within which the development is seen is the primary reason for attraction (e.g. walkers, joggers) and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the view. Photograph taken from a point height of 75 AOD with an open aspect of the site. Existing view: Limited by urban structures and vegetation. Predicted view: Any 2 storey domestic development will have minimal impact.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Magnitude of change: Medium. Visual impact: Low. Proposed mitigation: The retention and enhancement of the existing vegetation together with internal native planting. Conclusion: Existing visual barriers together with internal site planting will mitigate any visual change.
Viewpoint 7: Looking west from western boundary of the Mountain Lakes Golf Course OS grid ref: ST 132 841 Distance from Site: Approx 1.1 K Landscape character: Open views of valley across mainly wooded areas with the occasional pasture. Mixture of rural landscape and urban settlements. Receptor type and sensitivity: (Medium sensitivity) Outdoor workers and people undertaking recreational pursuits where the landscape within which the development is seen is not the primary reason for attraction (e.g. golfers, water based activities, theme and adventure parks, historic sites, parks and gardens, minor road users). Residents where their aspect of the development is secondary. Receptors are less likely to be within a recognized designated landscape and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the facilities and features of the particular attraction. Photograph taken from a point height of 125 AOD with an open aspect of the site.
Existing view: Open views at distance. Predicted view: Any low rise development will be screened by existing features. Magnitude of change: Negligible. Visual impact: Negligible. Proposed mitigation: The retention and enhancement of the existing vegetation. Conclusion: Medium visual effect mitigated by native species planting around and within any proposed development.
Viewpoint 8: Looking south-west from the southern slopes of Craig-yr-Allt OS grid ref: ST 128 848 Distance from Site: Approx 1.6 K Landscape character: Open views of valley across mainly wooded areas with the occasional pasture. Mixture of rural landscape and urban settlements. Receptor type and sensitivity: Receptor type and sensitivity: (High sensitivity) Residents, where their main view is of the development, or people taking recreation where the landscape within which the development is seen is the primary reason for attraction (e.g. walkers, joggers) and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the view. Photograph taken from a point height of 200 AOD with an open aspect of the site. Existing view: Open views at distance. Predicted view: Any low rise development will be screened by existing features. Magnitude of change: Negligable. Visual impact: Negligable. Proposed mitigation: The retention and enhancement of the existing vegetation. Conclusion: Medium visual effect mitigated by native species planting around and within any proposed development.
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Table 4.1: Sensitivity of Receptors Medium Sensitivity: Outdoor workers and people undertaking recreational pursuits where the landscape within which the development is seen is not the primary reason for attraction (e.g. golfers, water based activities, theme and adventure parks, historic sites, parks and gardens, minor road users). Residents where their aspect of the development is secondary. Receptors are less likely to be within a recognized designated landscape and could be attracted to visit more frequently, or stay for longer by virtue of the facilities and features of the particular attraction.
Table 4.2: Magnitude of Effect on Visual Amenity Medium Magnitude: Loss of, or alteration to, elements within the view experienced such that there is partial change.
Significance of effect upon visual amenity – Moderate (See table 2.6)
4.4 Effects on Landscape Character The Zone of Visual Influence analysis (Figure 3) and viewpoint assessment in the field has enabled informed judgements to be made on the predicted effects of the proposed development on the landscape character. Generally the effect of the proposed development on landscape character diminishes with distance away from the site. Due to the topography, intervening vegetation and urban structures views of the site are mainly obscured at close distances but become more open when viewed from the north and east at a progressively greater distance. Views from the south are obscured by the terrain, heavily wooded slopes and the intervening complex of road structures. From the west views are limited to the occasional view through hedgerows and woodland. As you move further away from the proposed development, the perception of it will change due to distance and scale. It will quickly become part of and merge with the existing buildings and wider urban landscape. From locations close to the development, its impact would again be minimised by local the screening of hedgerows, existing housing and vegetation. Consequently with partial views existing from the valley slopes the effect on landscape has been downgraded from to Low Magnitude - Minor alteration to the landscape resource where there may be some slight perception of change. Table 4.3 below summarises the effects of the proposed development on the landscape character of the study area, based on the landscape assessment criteria set out in section 2.2 above.
Table 4.3: Significance of Effects on Landscape Character Landscape Quality Magnitude of Significance Level Effect of Effect Character Area Land adjacent to Moy Road, High Low Moderate Taff’s Well
4.5 Effect on Designated Landscapes Minimal effect on the adjacent LDP (Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council) and UDP (Cardiff County Council) designated areas. .
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
4.6 Effects on Recreational Users Recreational users are likely to include walkers. Within this group, walkers are likely to be the most sensitive to changes in the landscape. In relation to the proposed development the largest effects would be at short to medium distances. Through local mitigation measures, including tree planting, the impact on views towards the new development will be reduced. The main road and pedestrian arteries pass the site but are in general screened by existing vegetation.
5.0 Conclusion: Significance of Effects on Landscape Character and Visual Amenity
5.1 Significance of Effects on the Physical Landscape The proposed development will result in moderate changes to the existing physical landscape. These changes will be generally contained to within the site and road access. The site already exists within an urban context and as such will provide an opportunity to reduce the present commercial building impact to a somewhat smaller and more integrated domestic environment together with the opportunity of introducing a more comprehensive and integrated landscape plan.
5.2 Significance of Effects on Visual Amenity Any change to visual amenity will, it is suggested, be limited to localised views from the adjacent urban settlements and limited views at medium distances through the occasional gap in the woodland. More open views are only possible with distance where the visual impact of the proposed development quickly becomes reduced.
5.3 Significance of Effects on Landscape Character The landscape character can be enhanced by introducing a more comprehensive landscape plan. Full account will be taken of the opportunities there will be to restore and enhance habitats and ecosystems including measures to eradicate invasive plant species
6.0 Landscape Strategy (see Figure 9) Design Principles The landscape strategy has been formulated using the baseline data obtained from the Visual Analysis and Landscape Character Assessment and consideration of important existing landscape features on site and in the environs. The policies relating to the site, recommendations of the Ecological Assessment and Tree Survey have been considered in the proposed landscape strategy. The layout for the residential area is the proposed Barratt layout.
As previously stated the ‘site’ Plots 1A, 1B, 1C and 2 form a pointed ovoid shape and is flat site. Most adjacent land levels are also ‘flat’ except where levels rise at the north and south of the Moy Road Industrial Estate for the increased levels needed for road bridges to cross the A470. This results in retaining walls and banks in Plot 1 southern end. The disused railway line now the Taff Trail link introduces an embankment abutting Plot 2 rising to an old railway bridge over the A470. The footpath along side Plot 2 at ground level has to ramp up to get the footbridge over the A470 just south of the railway bridge. This elevation of levels to get crossing across the A470 results in the site being overlooked from the south of the site from elevated road section, from the footbridge, from the ramped section of the Taff Trail. .
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Long distance and medium views out from the site are restricted. Views from within the site are internal or limited views out through gaps in the vegetation on to the A470, the northern footpath abutting the site and out on to Moy Road. The western railway embankment will give a woodland backdrop to the site. The western boundary facing towards Moy Road is a important visual area. Improvement to the site plot frontage will improve the visual amenity of Moy Road to varying extents according to the visual quality of adjacent buildings and plots
The design principles takes into account the following: 6.1 Ecological Recommendations 1. Site clearance to be undertaken with regard to protected species which may be found particularly bats and reptiles and their associated seasonal constraints. The Ecological Assessment indicates additional surveys are required for these two protected species types.
2. Japanese Knotweed stands should be eradicated in accordance with current standards. This applies to Plots 1 and 2. On Plots 1 and 2 there is Knotweed in the A470 verges and this is off-site though probably a source of on-site infestation. Protective fencing to the zone of influence of the Knotweed should be provided. It is indicated on Figure 1 Existing Features included in protective fencing requirements. A combined herbicide treatment/eradication programme on the Plots and the A470 verges (with the appropriate authority for the highway verges) should be undertaken. Work on plots with Knotweed should undertaken to avoid the spread of Knotweed across the proposed development.
3. The rootzones of trees on the railway embankment and the railway embankment itself between Plots 2 and 3 should be protected against incidental damage during clearance and construction. This is indicated on Figure 1 Existing Features included in protective fence requirements and in the Tree Survey 31 May 2013.
4. Ideally the disused railway line embankment should be retained with a 5.00m buffer zone on both sides which is undeveloped and planted with native trees and shrubs. This would be accommodated within rear gardens and general development open spaces abutting the embankments.
5. Any works affecting trees and scrub eg felling, lopping and clearance within the site should avoid the birdnesting season from 1 March to the end of August. Plot 1 and 2 limited clearance in south of site and minimal removal of Norway Maples at the site entrance. Off site - railway embankment and northern site edges – coppice Goat Willow, kill Buddleia, control wild Clematis.
6. Any works affecting larger trees should be immediately preceded by a survey to check for presence or potential presence of roosting bats. None of the trees to be cleared have been noted specifically as having bat roost potential within the ecological assessment, a final confirmation with suspect trees should be undertaken with the ecologist.
7. Landscaping of the developed site should be as far as possible be designed and planted to replicate native and semi-natural habitats from the surrounding area using only native species
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
indigenous to the area. Any new plantings should be exclusively of native species which are indigenous to the site and all stock should be local (or at least) of UK origin. The landscape structure planting would be native species of trees and shrubs or horticultural variants of native species in limited space positions in housing areas. The end users - residential will have detailed planting which is individual to their different requirements which will be additional to the landscape structure planting.
8. Consideration should be given to the erection of bird nesting and bat roosting boxes in suitable locations around the site. At least 4m off the ground preferably 5.00m with bat boxes positioned so that boxes are not artificially illuminated at night. On Plots 1 and 2 only off-site trees are suitable for the fixing of bird and bat boxes and would require permission from adjacent landowners.
9. Have an on-call ecologist during the course of the development
6.2 Landscape recommendations
1. Retain existing features which are of particular significance in terms ie as many of the Norway Maples as possible. The only trees of great merit within the site. .
2. Take full account of opportunities to restore and enhance habitats and ecosystems including measures to eradicate invasive plant species. The landscape recommendations reinforce the same points raised in the ecological recommendations.
3. Developments must address topography and the site's role in the landscape. Plots 1 and 2 form a single landscape element Plot 1 is overlooked and a strong internal landscape is required. A strong landscape frontage to Moy Road is proposed.
4. Developments should have appropriate landscaping. Tree and shrub planting should be of native species. The proposed development of residential units is a different landscape use from the existing industrial use. This type of development requires a landscape of a higher quality in visual and amenity terms than the existing industrial landscape and screening is needed from the from the industrial units which are to remain.
4. Replacement of the number of trees and hedgerows which would be lost as a result of the development. Existing landscape elements to be used as design pointers with regard to new landscape proposals. The number of trees present in the existing industrial plots which are to be redeveloped are very limited and the losses will be more than compensated by the proposed landscape strategy. The tree and shrub species of the structure planting will be native. Horticultural variants of native species will be used in some parts of housing areas where planting is close to houses. The native species to be used in structure planting mixes will include .Acer campestre Field Maple Allnus glutinosa Alder Betula pendula Silver Birch Crataegus mongyna Hawthorn
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
Corylus avellana Hazel Cornus sanguinea Dogwood Fraxinus excelsior Ash to be avoided due to recent Ash disease Ilex aquifolium Holly Lonicera pericymeum Honeysuckle Malus sylvestris Crab Apple Prunus spinosa Blackthorn Prunus avium Bird Cherry Quecus robur Oak Salix caprea Goat Willow Sambucus nigra Elder Sorbus aria Whitebeam Sorbus aucuparia Mountain Ash Ulmus glabra Wych Elm Viburnum opulus Guelder Rose Sorbus torminalis Chequer Tree Fruit trees provided in rear gardens Acer platanoides could be used as good specimens already present on site. Buddleia to be omitted as non-native and a weed species
6. Retention and where possible consolidation of existing vegetation on site boundaries and internally to help mitigate views, both with regard to near distance and longer distance views of the site and to provide viable connected ecological areas. There is only limited internal existing retained vegetation at the southern and northern tips of the site and the Norway Maples by the site entrance. Boundary retained existing vegetation occurs off-site on Plot 1 and 2. The off-site boundary tree block along the A470 abuts the eastern boundary of Plots 1 and 2 of a moderate width by Plot 2 north edge and very thin and weak and variable by Plot 1. Planting to reinforce the A470 planting within the proposed layout is important for the full length of the eastern boundary. The disused railway line on western edge of Plot 2 introduces a belt of mature trees into the Moy Road area and this is the only mature vegetation extending into the centre of the industrial estate and is therefore an important landscape element. This is recommended for remedial work and reinforcement planting on the lower slopes. The woodland is off-site and permission would be needed from the land owner.
7. Action the recommendations of the Tree Survey by David Rice Forestry Report May 2013 which is applicable to retained trees on and off-site boundary trees. It has been colour coded to indicate removals that are likely due to poor condition or facilitate to the development. The tree survey indicates the current condition of the limited trees within the site area and also assesses the boundary vegetation under the ownership of others. Where mature trees abut the site it is important to know their condition and if management is required and their general health and stability. The eastern narrow tree belt along the A470/ is most important in this regard. It is recommended that contact is made with adjacent landowners to discuss any action they may undertake or action by Barratts to improve the vegetation abutting their development.
6.3 Proposed Landscape Strategy Summary
The proposed Landscape Strategy as shown in Figure 9 is designed to mitigate the development's impact visually and provide a landscape character to set the development in a
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
landscape which is consistent with the positive landscape characteristics of adjacent areas and addresses ecological recommendations.
The landscape strategy in summary is as follows • Undertake site clearance, and vegetation clearance in accordance with seasonal restrictions of protected species and bird nesting as appropriate and necessary. • Undertake treatment to eradicate Japanese Knotweed and continue the treatment to achieve eradication. Liaise with adjacent landowners as necessary. Take precautions during constriction to prevent the spread of the Knotweed within development areas. • Protect the rootzones and canopies of boundary trees in all boundary locations including the disused railway embankment by the use of protective fencing. • Landscape structure planting is to be native species of trees and shrubs and the species are to be determined by the species present in adjacent areas and with reference to the ecology assessment plant lists. • Bird and bat boxes will be provided where possible on boundary trees if agreement is given by adjacent landowners. • Ecologist to be contacted during development as necessary • Take full account of opportunities to restore and enhance habitats with new planting of native species of trees and shrubs. The enhancement of the A470 tree belt is important of the eastern boundaries of Plots 1 and 2 . The structure planting blocks will provide new connected ecological areas across the site and improve links to existing vegetation blocks. • Provide strong internal planting (including mounding) to sites which are overlooked from elevated locations– Plot 1 and 2 • Provide strong boundary treatments to Moy Road frontages where no existing landscape occurs. • The proposed planting will exceed the number of tree removals this is due to the higher quality of landscape required by the new development in comparison to that of the existing industrial units. • Natural surveillance of public open spaces, footpaths and cycleways from proposed developments.
By implementing the above landscape strategy, the redevelopment to residential units will provide a higher quality of landscape than the existing landscape of large industrial units. There will be a positive improvement to visual amenity of site from mainly short distance and internal views. There will be an uplift to the visual appearance of the Moy Road Industrial estate as a whole. The landscape character will change from a valley floor industrial area to residential development with a more vegetated landscape. The increased tree cover will be more in keeping with other valley floor areas of mixed use. By implementing the ecological recommendations the overall negative impact on ecology will be minimised and positive impacts enhanced.
REFERENCES
Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage 2002 Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland Countryside Commission CCP423 (1993) Landscape Assessment Guidance Countryside Council for Wales Core Document 6.13 LANDMAP;The Landscape Assessment and Decision Making Process: Handbook for Consultants 1998 Countryside Council for Wales Core Document 6.14 The LANDMAP Information System 2001 The Landscape Institute/Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (1995 revised 2002) Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Assessment, (E & FN Spon)
Corscadden Associates July 2013
Garth Works, Taff’s Well; Landscape and Visual
The Planning Service, Development Control Advice Note 10 (Revised) Environmental Impact Assessment 1999
LANDMAP Visual & Sensory
Corscadden Associates - December 2010. Revised July 2013
Corscadden Associates July 2013