TREWITHEN DAIRY SINGLE TURBINE LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL APPRAISAL

Quality Management

Issue/revision Issue 1 Revision 1 Revision 2 Revision 3 Date 24/03/14 28/04/14 Prepared by Katharine Mayhew Andy Cocks Checked by Andy Cocks Rachel Lawson Digital Signature

Authorised by Andy Cocks Andy Follis Digital Signature

Project number 41870-04-03 41870-04-03A

22/04/2014

Client Renewables First Unit 11 Wimberley Park Brimscombe Stroud Gloucestershire GL5 2TH

Consultant Katharine Mayhew Colston 33 Colston Avenue Bristol BS1 4UA UK

Tel: +44 (0)117 930 2059 Fax: +44 (0)117 929 4624

www.wspgroup.co.uk

Registered Address WSP UK Limited 01383511 WSP House, 70 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1AF

Project number: 41870-04-03

Dated: 22/04/2014 Revised:

Table of Contents 1 Introduction ...... 2 2 Project Description ...... 2 3 Planning Guidance and Landscape Capacity ...... 2 3.1 Strategic Landscape Guidance ...... 2 3.2 Supplementary Planning Guidance ...... 3 4 Overview and Methodology ...... 4 4.1 Landscape and Visual Effects ...... 4 4.2 Cumulative effects ...... 10 4.3 Relevant Guidance and Sources of Information ...... 11 4.4 Study Area ...... 12 4.5 Extent of Theoretical Visibility ...... 12 4.6 Figures and Illustrations...... 13 4.7 Viewpoints ...... 13 5 Baseline conditions ...... 15 5.1 Description of the wider landscape ...... 15 5.2 Landscape Character ...... 15 5.2.1 National Level Landscape Character Areas ...... 15 5.2.2 Regional Level Landscape Character Areas within 7.5 km...... 16 5.2.3 Local Level Landscape Character – the Application Site ...... 18 6.1 Landscape Planning Designations ...... 19 6.1.1 Landscape Designations ...... 19 6.1.2 Heritage Assets ...... 19 6.2 Key Visual Receptors ...... 20 6.3 Public Rights of Way...... 20 7 Appraisal of Landscape Effects ...... 21 7.1 Construction and Decommissioning ...... 21 7.2 Landscape Effects during Operation ...... 22 7.2.1 Effects on the landscape character of the study area ...... 22 7.2.2 Landscape Effects on Designated Landscapes ...... 22 7.2.2.1 Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty ...... 23 7.2.2.2 Moor part of the Cornwall AONB ...... 23 7.2.2.3 South Coast Eastern part of the Cornwall AONB...... 23 7.2.2.4 Pentire Point – Widemouth Heritage Coast ...... 24 7.2.2.5 Gribbin Head – Heritage Coast ...... 24 7.2.2.6 Mid AGLV and AGLV ...... 24 7.3 Landscape Effects on Historic Parks and Gardens ...... 25 7.3.1.1 Gardens and Designed Landscapes – up to 7.5 km from the Site ...... 25

7.3.1.2 Gardens and Designed Landscapes – between 7.5 and 20 km from the Site 25 8 Appraisal of Visual Effects ...... 26 8.1 Visual Receptors ...... 26 8.2 Long Distance Paths...... 26 9 Conclusions ...... 28 10 References ...... 29 11 Abbreviations ...... 30 12 Summary Tables ...... 31 Appendix 1 – Landscape Character Assessment ...... 33 Appendix 2 - Viewpoint Assessment ...... 37 Appendix 3 - Residential Assessment ...... 45

Project number: 41870-04-03

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1 Introduction This report has been produced to accompany the planning application for a single wind turbine at Trewithen Dairy near in Cornwall. The report provides an appraisal of the landscape and visual impact and effects of a proposed wind turbine which would have a hub height mast of 50 m and a rotor diameter of up to 54 m, giving an overall height of up to 77 m to blade tip. There is also an appraisal of the interactions between the proposed wind turbine and other tall structures nearby, including other wind turbines.

2 Project Description The proposed wind turbine development is located at NGR 213151, 063497 on the south facing slopes of an open field located approximately 300 m south-east of Greymare Farm Cottage, 435 m south-east of Greymare Farm Office Block and approximately 400 m east of Greymare Farm Lodge. The proposed Site is located on a minor road, approximately 6 km south-east of the settlement of Bodmin, 4 km north of Lostwithiel and 8 km west of . It is 1.5 km south of the and 350 m north of the .

The infrastructure required for the new turbine would include an 85 m length of access track, with an additional 19 m length turning head, both 4m wide running through the field to the turbine location; a substation to the side of the turbine indicatively 3.25 m x 3.55 m and 2.5 m in height, foundations and an underground power connection.

3 Planning Guidance and Landscape Capacity

3.1 Strategic Landscape Guidance Projects below 50 MW are determined at local authority level in in accordance with the polices set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and following the procedure set out in the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2010 (SI 2010/2184). Policy is also contained within the Planning practice guidance for renewable and low carbon energy.

The NPPF identifies that when local planning authorities (LPAs) are determining planning applications for renewable energy development they should:

Ŷ Not require applicants for energy development to demonstrate the overall need for renewable or low carbon energy and also recognise that even small-scale projects provide a valuable contribution to cutting greenhouse gas emissions; and

Ŷ Approve the application if its impacts are (or can be made) acceptable. Once suitable areas for renewable and low carbon energy have been identified in plans, local planning authorities should also expect subsequent applications for commercial scale projects outside these areas to demonstrate that the proposed location meets the criteria used in identifying suitable areas.

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The NPPF makes clear that renewable energy development is not normally considered appropriate development for green belt land and encourages LPAs to develop a strategy to promote renewable energy developments and identify suitable sites for them.

The NPPF also makes clear that planning authorities should follow the approach set out in the National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure (July 2011) when assessing the likely impacts, locations and determining planning applications for potential wind energy development. The National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure sets out the general principles that should be applied in the assessment of development consent applications for renewable energy technologies including onshore wind (outlined in Section 2.7 of the statement). Key considerations for site selection are explained in detail and include predicted wind speed, proximity of site to dwellings, access, biodiversity and geological conservation, historic environment impacts and landscape and visual impact.

In July 2013 the Government published Planning practice guidance for renewable and low carbon energy. The aim of this guidance was to make clear that the need for renewable energy did not automatically override environmental protections and the planning concerns of local communities. It also aimed to ensure sufficient weight was given to landscape and visual impact concerns. The guidance sets out particular planning considerations that relate to wind turbines and includes guidance on how local planning authorities should assess impacts such as ecology, heritage, shadow flicker and cumulative landscape and visual effects.

3.2 Supplementary Planning Guidance has prepared a series of renewable energy planning guidance notes to assist householders, communities and developers in bringing forward their development ambitions. These guidance documents will be adopted by the Council as a 'Supplementary Planning Document' (SPD) following consultation and adoption of the Council's Core Strategy proposed after 2014. Until then, the documents have been approved by Members of the Council's Planning Policy Advisory Panel and Cabinet. Whilst not attracting the full weight of an SPD, the documents will attract some weight in decisions reached on applications. The planning guidance note relating to on shore wind is included in Renewable Energy Planning Guidance Note 3 The development of onshore wind turbines (February 2014). This outlines assessment of Landscape Sensitivity and Visual Amenity, a checklist for the preparation of a landscape and visual impact assessment and assessment of cumulative effects. Since the proposed turbine is 77 m to tip height, this is classed as a medium scale turbine under this guidance document and the following must be fulfilled:

“Information on the Landscape Character Area (LCA) and an assessment of the impact of the wind turbine(s) on the key characteristics of this LCA (including any potential cumulative impact) accompanied by a computer- generated plan to show the zone of theoretical visibility of the wind turbine(s). Professional photomontages from agreed viewpoints and an assessment of cumulative impact with any other wind turbines.”

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4 Overview and Methodology Whilst this appraisal has been carried out to the standards required for a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), it is referred to in this report as a landscape and visual appraisal (LVA) to make it clear that this is a non- EIA development.

4.1 Landscape and Visual Effects This appraisal has been prepared with reference to guidelines produced by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVA) 3rd Edition 2013. It follows best practice guidance on the visual assessment and visual representation of wind farms.

In addition, other information sources used include Ordnance Survey mapping, aerial photography, web geographic and image resources including Google Maps, Bing Maps and Google Street View. The overall aim of this LVA is to identify, predict and evaluate the key impacts on specific elements of the landscape and the visual resource and the overall effects of these on the study area. Key impacts are influenced by the sensitivity of the landscape and visual resource, and the magnitude of change that the proposed wind turbine would create on them. The resulting significance of the effects of the proposed wind turbine are then determined.

Landscape and visual effects are separate but interrelated effects. Visual effects relate to changes in available views of the landscape and the effect of those changes on people, whereas Landscape effects can be defined as the changes in the fabric, character, and quality of the landscape as a result of a development through direct changes to specific landscape elements; subtler changes to the overall patterns of elements that give rise to landscape character and regional and local distinctiveness; and changes to acknowledgement, special interests or values such as designated landscapes, conservation sites and cultural associations. In accordance with the GLVIA, landscape and visual effects are assessed separately. Landscape resource is defined by the European Landscape Convention (Council of Europe (2002): European Landscape Convention), which states that, ‘Landscape is an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors’. An assessment of landscape effects deals with the effects of change and development on landscape as a resource: how the proposed wind turbine will affect the elements that make up the landscape, the aesthetic and perceptual aspects of the landscape and its distinctive character. Visual resource is defined as the nature and quality of a particular area or views that people have and their visual amenity – meaning the overall pleasantness of the views they enjoy of their surroundings. An assessment of visual effects deals with the effects of change and development on the views available to people and their visual amenity at different places.

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The LVA differentiates between the likely landscape and visual effects that: Ŷ Result from the development itself (direct effects) or from consequential change resulting from the development (indirect effects); Ŷ Are additional (cumulative) effects caused by the proposed wind farm when considered in conjunction with other operational or consented schemes; Ŷ Are likely to be short term or carry on over a longer period of time; Ŷ Are judged to be positive (beneficial) or negative (adverse) in their consequences for the landscape or for views and visual amenity. Sensitivity to Landscape Change

Sensitivity is primarily about the nature of the landscape receptor, which in turn relates to its susceptibility to the type of change proposed and the qualities and values attached to it. The degree of sensitivity is about the degree to which the introduction of a proposed wind turbine affects the way that the landscape is perceived. Sensitivity varies according to the type of development (its particular form and characteristics) and how this affects the landscape both directly (physical changes) and indirectly (perceptual effects on how the character of the landscape is appreciated). This in turn is related to the quality of the landscape and the manner and extent to which it is valued, as described in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Criteria regarding Landscape Sensitivity

Degree Criteria

High Ŷ A landscape where key characteristics and features are sensitive to the introduction of a wind turbine: landscapes whose character is susceptible to relatively small changes. Ŷ Pristine landscapes and landscapes with a clear sense of wildness. Ŷ Landscapes covered by a national landscape designation. Ŷ Landscapes with clear and widely recognised cultural value. Ŷ Aspects of the landscape that may make it highly sensitive include: small-scale landform, land cover or development pattern; a sense of intimacy or enclosure; clear and obvious human scale indicators; traditional or historic settlements; distinctive landmark skylines; complex & irregular or bare & uncluttered skylines; a confusion of existing vertical elements of variable form and function; framed vistas, valley rims and channelled views; limited visual focus. Medium Ŷ A landscape where key characteristics and features are sensitive to the introduction of a wind turbine, but where a wind turbine may also be integrated. This might include landscapes with: a distinct pattern; occasional prominent visual focus; large scale structures; a sense of exposure; a scale of landform to which turbines could fit. Ŷ Important elements of the landscape of moderate quality and condition, human activity and development evident, noticeable movement. Ŷ Landscapes covered by a regional landscape designation. Ŷ Landscapes with clear local cultural value. Ŷ Aspects of the landscape that may give it a medium level of sensitivity include: medium- scale landform, land cover or development pattern; partial enclosure with medium range views; man-made elements partially out of scale with the landscape; varied and moderately complex skylines; existing vertical focal points.

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Degree Criteria

Low Ŷ A landscape where the wind farm would not significantly affect the key characteristics or components of the landscape. This might include landscapes where the existing characteristics and features do not make a significant contribution to the overall landscape character or local distinctiveness, or which are untypical of the landscape type. Ŷ Degraded landscapes, where the landscape as a whole or key components of it are in a poor state of repair and/or landscape undergoing clear change and development. Ŷ Aspects of the landscape that may give it a low level of sensitivity include: large-scale landform, land cover or development pattern; featureless and coarse grained character, open with broad views; man-made elements out of scale with the landscape or the presence industrial and contemporary structures with a vertical emphasis; simple skylines, simple large scale backgrounds; existing vertical focal points; busy and noisy, with human activity and development and prominent movement.

Magnitude of landscape change

The magnitude of a landscape change is primarily about the nature of the effect:

Ŷ A function of the size and scale of the proposed change, the proportion of the total extent of the landscape that this represents, the degree to which aesthetic or perceptual aspects of the landscape would be altered by removal or addition of components, and whether these changes would alter key characteristics of the landscape which are critical to its distinctive character; Ŷ The geographical extent of the area influenced and the duration of the effect and its reversibility: a development may totally alter the character of the landscape very locally whilst having a non-material effect on the wider landscape. In general effects may have an influence at site level (within the site itself); in the intermediate setting of the site; at the scale of landscape character areas; and at a larger scale influencing several landscape character areas; and Ŷ Its duration and reversibility. Short term changes can be considered as zero to five years, medium term as five to ten years and long term as up to twenty five years. Table 2: Criteria regarding Magnitude of Landscape Effect

Degree Criteria

High Ŷ Total loss of, or major alteration to, key elements, features and characteristics of the existing landscape Ŷ The introduction of elements that would be prominent and totally uncharacteristic. Ŷ Considerable dissonance with the landform, scale and pattern of the landscape. Ŷ Permanent change and loss of quality to a high quality or highly valued landscape. Medium Ŷ Partial loss or alteration to one or more key elements/features/ characteristics of the baseline (pre-development) conditions such that post development character/composition/attributes of the baseline will be partially changed. Ŷ Partial loss of, or alteration to, one or more key elements, features or characteristics of the existing landscape. Ŷ The introduction of elements that may be noticeable but not substantially out of character. Ŷ Out of scale with the landscape, and at odds with the local pattern and landform. Ŷ Substantially change to a landscape of recognised quality or value

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Degree Criteria

Low Ŷ Minor loss or alteration to one or more key elements, features or characteristics of the existing landscape. Ŷ The introduction of elements that may be apparent in the landscape but not particularly noticeable, may not be out of character with the existing landscape. Ŷ May not quite fit into the landform and scale of the landscape. Ŷ Small changes to a landscape of recognised quality or value. Negligible Ŷ Very minor loss of, or alteration to, one or more key elements, features, and characteristics of the existing landscape. Ŷ The introduction of elements that are inconspicuous, or in character with the existing landscape. Ŷ No change to the existing landscape quality, but may be slightly at odds with the scale, landform and pattern of the landscape.

Sensitivity to Visual Change

Whilst it is clearly people who are affected, it is the places that they may occupy that are considered as receptors in the assessment. Sensitivity is about the nature of the visual receptors - the expectations of the people affected and their reasons for being at a particular receptor location, together with: the importance and value of the landscape viewed; the nature and context of the viewpoint and; the importance of the view.

In general terms, the most sensitive receptors are those for whom visual amenity can be considered important: people at home (particularly the main outlook from a house) and people involved in outdoor recreation, with a focus on appreciating the landscape or views. The least sensitive are those whose attention can reasonably be expected to be focussed away from any actual view: users of indoor recreation facilities and industrial and commercial workplaces. The distinction is not black and white and careful consideration has been given to the nature of the groups of people who would be affected and the extent to which their attention is likely to be focused on views and visual amenity.

Table 3: Criteria regarding Sensitivity of Visual Receptors

Degree Criteria

High Ŷ Receptors for whom or from which the view is important and where changes would be particularly noticed. Ŷ Examples may include: the main outlook from a house or group of houses; the outlook from a hotel or restaurant designed to take advantage of a view; direct views from important open spaces in a settlement; regularly used footpaths and recreational cycle paths; recognised tourist road, rail and ferry routes; tourist destinations with a focus on enjoying the view; designated viewpoints and destination hill summits. Medium Ŷ Receptors for whom or from which the change in the view is a small element in the overall view, not critical to the visual amenity, or where the nature of the view is of secondary importance to the user. Ŷ Examples may include: side or secondary views from a house (minor rooms); views from most hotels and restaurants; views from lightly used open spaces, public viewpoints and footpaths; views from most roads and railways; tourist destinations without a focus on enjoying the view and; the main outlook from offices designed with an outlook. Low Ŷ Receptors for whom or from which the change is unimportant or irrelevant, or where their attention can reasonably be expected to be focussed on their work or activity. Ŷ Examples include: commercial, industrial and most office workplaces; indoor recreation facilities; local access routes to workplaces.

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Magnitude of Visual Change

The magnitude of a visual change is a function of the scale and type of change to the view under consideration. Factors taken into account may include: Ŷ Scale of change of the visual effect (the proportion of the view occupied by the proposed wind turbine, the degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape and the nature of the view and whether views would be full, partial or glimpses); Ŷ Geographical extent (the angle of view in relation to the main activity of the receptor, the distance of the viewpoint from the proposed wind turbine and the extent of the area over which changes would be visible): Ŷ Duration of the visual effect (ranging from full view from a static receptor to a glimpse from a moving one); and Ŷ Reversibility of the visual effect.

Table 4: Criteria regarding Magnitude of Visual Effect Degree Criteria

High Ŷ The proposed development dominates the view and substantially changes its character and quality. Ŷ The turbines influence the focus of the view, resulting in them becoming the eye-catching focus of the view. Ŷ The development would result in a prominent change in the existing view and/or would cause a prominent change in the quality and/or character of the view. Ŷ The turbines would form prominent elements within the overall view and/or may be easily noticed by the observer or receptor. Ŷ Standing out, striking, sharp, unmistakeable, easily seen. Medium Ŷ The proposed development is clearly noticeable in the view and affects its character or quality but does not wholly dominate. Ŷ Clearly visible element, but not over-riding or defining element in the view. Ŷ The development would result in a noticeable change in the existing view and or would cause a noticeable change in the quality and/or character of the view. Ŷ The turbine/s would form conspicuous elements within the overall view and/or may be readily noticed by the observer or receptor. Ŷ Noticeable, distinct, catching the eye or attention, clearly visible, well defined. Low Ŷ The proposed development does not affect the character and quality of the view, or it is a minor element likely to be overlooked. For example, the development is in the background or a small part of a wide view. Ŷ Partial view of the turbine/s, with other features in the view being the defining elements. Ŷ The development would result in a perceptible change in the existing view, and/or without affecting the overall quality and/or character of the view. The turbine/s would form an apparent small element in the wider landscape that may be missed by the casual observer or receptor. Ŷ Visible, evident, obvious. Negligible Ŷ Changes to the view are hardly discernible. Ŷ Turbine/s are visible but will go unnoticed to the naked eye. Ŷ The development would result in a barely perceptible change in the existing view, and/or without affecting the overall quality and character of the view and/or would form an inconspicuous minor element in the wider landscape that may be missed by the casual observer or receptor. Ŷ Lacking sharpness of definition, not obvious, indistinct, not clear, obscure.

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Assessing the Significance of Landscape and Visual Effects

The EIA Directive and UK regulations (European Commission: Environmental Impact Assessment Directive, 85/337 EEC, amended by 97/11/EC and 2003/35/EC) refer to projects that are likely to have significant effects. This LVIA combines an evidence based process with professional judgement, and links judgements about the sensitivity of the receptor with the magnitude of the effects, to arrive at conclusions about the significance of the effects.

The magnitude of effect and the sensitivity of the receptor are considered together to derive the assessment of significance. The matrix in Table 5 below shows in general terms how sensitivity and magnitude inter-relate but it must be emphasised that assessing significance is not a mechanistic process of multiplying magnitude by sensitivity: there is a continuum of impacts and the steps in the categories are guideline thresholds.

Table 5: Significance of Landscape and Visual Effects

Sensitivity of Receptor / Receiving Environment to Change

High Medium Low

e

g High Major Moderate to Major Minor to Moderate n a h C Medium Moderate to Major Moderate Minor f o

e

d Low Minor to Moderate Minor Negligible to Minor u t i n g

a Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible M

Assessments of magnitude and sensitivity, as well as the choice of the significance category into which a given effect should be placed, are all matters of common sense and professional judgement, carried out by skilled observers working in the field. Effects that are assessed as being moderate or above are normally considered significant and highlighted in the report. There may be situations, however, when a moderate effect is not significant. For example, a change of medium magnitude experienced by a receptor of medium sensitivity that the assessor judges not to be significant. This would be assessed as moderate but the assessment text would make clear its non-significant nature and justify the rationale behind the reduced significance. Nature of the effects

Wind turbines can be a controversial form of development. Public reaction tends to be quite polarised, with some people considering them positive elegant structures to be welcomed and others vehemently opposed to the erection of such tall structures.

In this assessment, partly to avoid complex subjective issues and partly to ensure that a ‘worst-case scenario’ is considered, the introduction of a large structure into a view or any change in the overall character of a landscape brought about by the proposed wind turbine is considered to be an effect that is adverse in nature.

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4.2 Cumulative effects Cumulative effects occur from relationships between more than one wind energy development. They are the summation which results from the effects accruing from a proposed development in conjunction with effects from other existing, or reasonably foreseeable similar projects within or in close proximity to the study area. Cumulative impacts are affected by: Ŷ The number and distance between developments; Ŷ The overall character of the landscape and its sensitivity to numerous energy developments; and Ŷ Their inter visibility and sequential visibility.

Table 6 below identifies all wind turbines located within 20 km of the proposed development and states the reasoning for schemes that have been excluded from the assessment:

Table 6: Cumulative Developments within 20 km of the Proposed Turbine

Name Approx. Number Blade Tip Reason for exclusion (where relevant) distance of Height (km) * turbines (m)

Operational Schemes E of Kingswood Farm 3.5km 1 45 Tawnamoor 4 1 <30 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects Great Tredinnick Farm 4 1 47 The Stables 5 1 <30 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects Farm 5 1 <30 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects Steppes Farm 5.5 1 35 Small scale turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects at distances beyond 1 km from the turbine and very unlikely to combine with the proposed turbine to create significant cumulative effects Callywith Farm 6 1 77 Cabilla Manor 6 1 <25 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects Botelet Farm 6.5 2 <30 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects Castle Dewey 7.5 1 <20 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects Tortoiseshell Barn 9.5 1 40 Wallhouse 10 1 <25 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects

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Name Approx. Number Blade Tip Reason for exclusion (where relevant) distance of Height (km) * turbines (m)

West Lampetho 10 1 <30 Micro-generation turbine unlikely to contribute to significant cumulative effects North of Oak House 13.5 1 67 16 5 100 Pawton Farm 19 1 67 Approved Schemes South Bofindle 5km 1 47 Newtons Margate 5.5km 1 46 Farm *Distance from nearest turbine to the Site

GLVIA 3 recommends a focus on likely significant effects and for this reason the schemes marked in bold above have been considered as cumulative developments. The cumulative landscape and visual assessments identify the development(s) responsible for triggering any significant cumulative effects.

4.3 Relevant Guidance and Sources of Information This appraisal follows recommendations for assessment and graphical representation of wind energy developments (including cumulative effects) within the following publications: Ŷ Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Institute (LI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) (3rd Edition 2013); Ŷ National Planning Policy Framework (2012); Ŷ Renewable Energy Planning Guidance Note 3 The development of onshore wind turbines (February 2014); Ŷ Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland, Countryside Agency and SNH (2002); Ŷ Cornwall and Landscape Character Assessment (2008) Land Use Consultants for Cornwall Council; Ŷ Guidelines to the environmental impacts of wind farms and small scale hydroelectric scheme. SNH, 2001; and Ŷ Natural Heritage assessment of small scale wind energy projects which do not require formal Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) SNH (2008). Preliminary assessment work, followed by detailed landscape and visual site survey work and viewpoint photography was undertaken in site visits in March and April 2014 during periods of good visibility.

A combination of wireline drawings and photomontages are used to illustrate the proposed wind turbine development. Wireline drawings were also used during the field work assessment to help the assessor understand the potential landscape and visual impacts of the development.

All viewpoints are illustrated with an image centred on the development and printed at a size so that when viewed from a comfortable distance objects in the image appear the size that they would when viewed in real

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life. The viewpoint image is 56 degrees extracted from a wider cylindrical panorama printed 39 cm wide on an A3 page. Viewed from a distance of 40 cm this image occupies 56 degrees of the viewer’s field of view. The image will appear ‘full size’ and can be used in the field to compare the existing view with that with the proposed wind turbine as illustrated.

As far as possible only photographs taken in good clear conditions are used in the assessment. Despite their photo-realistic nature, it should be noted that photomontages can only ‘illustrate the likely view of a proposed wind farm as would be seen within a photograph (not as would appear to the human eye in the field)’ (SNH 2007). A photographic print can never be as clear and sharp as the real world, and moving objects tend to attract the eye. The turbine could, therefore, be more noticeable in reality than it is in the photomontages. However, wireline images can also overemphasise the visibility of thin structures such as turbines, making them appear more prominent than they would in the landscape. The turbine is shown facing the viewer within the wirelines with one turbine blade facing vertically upwards, to maximise their visibility. It should be noted that wireline images are not intended to represent the actual appearance of the proposed wind turbine, but have been used as a tool to predict the likely scale, form and positioning of it within any view.

4.4 Study Area The preliminary assessment was carried out within a 20 km radius of the Site (Figure 1). The wireframes generated at this stage indicated that the scale of the turbine would be extremely unlikely to cause significant effects at distances beyond 10 km and therefore viewpoints were selected within a 10 km radius. More detailed visual assessment based on the site visits and photomontages indicated that significant visual effects would be limited to within approximately 2.5 km of the site.

In order to assess potential significant cumulative effects in areas beyond the 2.5 km “threshold”, a study area of 7.5 km radius has been adopted for the landscape study area (Figure 2).

Whilst significant visual effects are only predicted to occur within approximately 2.5 km of the site, a number of landscape designations within the surrounding landscape were identified suggesting higher than average landscape sensitivity. To show the full context of these designations Figure 3 extends to 15 km radius from the site and effects on designations and pathways are assessed within this radius.

Initial site work indicated that residential properties within 1 km of the site are often well visually insulated and many are located in areas where there is also landform providing partial screening of the proposed turbine. As a precaution, however, the residential assessment was conducted within a 1.5 km radius.

The 20 km limit has been retained as the search area for other existing and consented wind energy developments which have the potential to cause cumulative effects.

The study area for the visual assessment is the area from which the proposed wind turbine may be seen (by definition, visual effects cannot occur where the development is not visible). It is, therefore, defined by visibility mapping, as outlined below.

4.5 Extent of Theoretical Visibility The Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) is the area from which the proposed wind turbine may (theoretically) be visible. The ZTV in this appraisal was produced by computer modelling (using WindFarm version 4.2 by Resoft Ltd) and the Ordnance Survey (OS) Landform Panorama” 50 m digital terrain models. Figure 1 shows the full extent of the ‘bare ground’ ZTV, which does not take vegetation or built form into consideration.

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The ZTV provides an indication of the area from where the turbine may be visible but it is referred to as “theoretical visibility” to highlight the limitations of computer modelling. There will be places shown as having visibility of the turbine that, in reality, will have no view (e.g. where small clumps of trees, a hedge or a wall block the view) and places where there is a view but it is so marginal as to be negligible.

A ZTV records whether a turbine would be visible or not from any specific location. It does not differentiate whether it is just a blade tip or the full turbine that would be visible. This can make a great difference to the effects of the proposed wind turbine on the landscape and visual amenity of an area.

A ZTV does not take account of the weather, light levels, orientation of the viewer, direction and speed of travel or the angle of the view, and does not take account of the mitigating effect of distance.

Figure 1 shows the 20 km radius study area, with the green shaded area being the areas where there would be theoretical visibility of the proposed wind turbine. Within a 10 km radius of the proposed wind turbine the site visibility would be quite extensive across the open agricultural land of the area. There would be no theoretical visibility in and around the periphery of the main settlements of Bodmin and Dobwalls, nor from wider settlements such as and .

Theoretical visibility would also be limited in the bottoms of the numerous wooded stream corridors and drainage ditches and brooks that drain the area. Between 10 and 20 km from the proposed Site, the theoretical visibility of the proposed turbine would be restricted to the higher areas between the valleys.

4.6 Figures and Illustrations The figures and illustrations accompanying this appraisal are in accordance with best practice guidance: Ŷ Figure 1: 20 km Study area for existing and consented wind energy developments and ZTV to blade tip; Ŷ Figure 2: 7.5 km radius study area showing Landscape character aspect types; Ŷ Figure 3: 15 km Landscape planning designations and long distance footpaths; Ŷ Figure 4: Viewpoint 1: Minor road, west of the Site; Ŷ Figure 5: Viewpoint 2: A390, between and ; Ŷ Figure 6: Viewpoint 3: A390 south of the Site; Ŷ Figure 7: Viewpoint 4: Minor road north of Site, near Tawna Downs; Ŷ Figure 8: Viewpoint 5: , AONB; Ŷ Figure 9: Viewpoint 6: Minor road between Mount and St Neot; Ŷ Figure 10: Viewpoint 7: The Beacon, Bodmin; and Ŷ Figure 11: Viewpoint 8: Minor road near Whitebarrow Farm, Bodmin AONB Ŷ Figure 12: Residential Assessment

4.7 Viewpoints Eight viewpoints were selected to illustrate the types of view that would be experienced from a range of reasonably close-range locations within the study area. These viewpoints are not strictly representative of particular receptors because they have been positioned deliberately to avoid intervening screening. They therefore show a clearer ‘worst case scenario’ view compared with most views from actual receptor sites.

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Viewpoints one to five are located within 5 km of the proposed turbine. The remaining four viewpoints show views from between 5 and 10 km of the proposed turbine.

The selected viewpoints were sent to the LPA for approval and no timely response was made. During the first site visits several potential viewpoint locations were discounted due to the well vegetated nature of the local landscape which includes blocks of woodland and high Cornish hedgebanks providing high levels of screening. For these reasons the selected viewpoints tend to be located on areas of higher ground within the plateau landscapes including the higher ground on the opposite sides of the Fowey Valley. The Fowey Valley (including Castle and Llanhydrock House) is not represented by assessment viewpoints due to the lack of any clear unobstructed views from publicly accessible areas along the river valley.

A list of the viewpoints is provided below with the reason for selection and the distance from the proposed turbine location. The viewpoint locations are illustrated in Figure 1. Viewpoint photography has been aligned with a 3D model to allow the creation of photomontages and aligned wireframes, and these are illustrated alongside the photograph for all viewpoints. A comprehensive viewpoint assessment including cumulative assessment is provided in Appendix 2. Table 7: Assessment Viewpoints

No. Viewpoint Name Distance Reason for Selection to proposed turbine

1 Minor road west of Site 363 m Located at a high point within the local landscape, the view represents a clear, close range, direct view from a minor road which joins the A390 to the east of the Site. 2 A390, between West 1.5 km The view represents a close range view from the A390 to the Taphouse and Trewindle east of the Site. 3 A390 south of Site 2 km Part of a sequence of views that would be experienced when travelling northwards on the A390. 4 Minor road north of the 3 km A view looking in a southerly direction towards the Site, Site adjacent to Tawna representing mid-range views from elevated locations on the Downs far side of the valley containing the A38 and the railway.

5 St Winnow, AONB 5.9 km Represents views from the South Coast Eastern AONB at its closest point to the Site. 6 Minor road between 6 km Represents the AONB at its closest point to the Mount and St Neot Site. 7 The Beacon Bodmin 7 km A view from a local topographical viewing point and representative of views from the eastern edge of Bodmin across the . 8 Minor road near 9 km This elevated view from within the AONB is representative of Whitebarrow Farm, views from the AONB across the valley towards the Site. Bodmin AONB

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5 Baseline conditions

5.1 Description of the wider landscape The application Site lies in an agricultural landscape which forms a slight plateau between undulating hills and valleys, with localised high points to the north, south-east and west and within 2 km of the Site. Shallow valleys between the peaks often demarcate watercourses whilst archaeological features such as tumuli are scattered around the peaks.

Pastoral farming is widespread in the local study area and accounts for the vast majority of its total area. Farms are medium sized and include patches of deciduous and coniferous tree cover as well as open fields. A key feature of the farmland is the high hedgebanks, typical of Cornish landscapes, which edge many of the lanes and fields. The hedgebanks typically consist of walls or earth mounds upon which a hedgerow is planted. The presence of hedgebanks tends to reduce long distance views across the immediate study area.

Key features of the wider landscape include the A48 road located approximately 1.5 km north of the Site and the A390, located approximately 0.85 km south-east of the Site, both of which tend to act as physical barriers between land on either side of them. The River Fowey valley follows the A38 in an east-west direction to the north of the Site, before curving southwards past , to the west of the Site, and on south to Lostwithiel and the coast. Other notable features include many small settlements, transport routes, and large electricity pylons and lines.

5.2 Landscape Character 5.2.1 National Level Landscape Character Areas The need to identify, maintain and where possible enhance the landscape character of an area is recognised within the planning system and is manifested in planning policies, since development proposals can potentially weaken, enhance or change entirely landscape character and increase or decrease landscape quality.

National Character Areas were created in 2005 by Natural England with support from English Heritage and are an update to the 1996 Joint Character Areas Map. They subdivide England into 159 National Character Areas and each is described within one of 8 regional volumes. The Site is located within Countryside Character Volume 8: South West within which the Site is located within NCA 152 Cornish Killas. The key characteristics of NCA 152 include the following: Ŷ Undulating slate plateau with little woodland and few hedgerow trees; Ŷ Numerous broadleaved wooded valleys, varying greatly in size. Northern valleys generally narrow and densely wooded. In the south there are drowned valleys () with wide ; Ŷ Rugged coastal scenery. Exposed and windswept cliffs in the north with limited access to the sea, more sheltered and wooded in the south; Ŷ Outstanding historic parks, mainly in the sheltered valleys in the south; Ŷ Generally a dispersed settlement pattern of hamlets, farmsteads and small villages; Ŷ Variable field pattern dominated by stone-built Cornish hedges; and Ŷ Important archaeological and industrial-archaeological sites.

The Site also lies within 5km of NCA 153 Bodmin Moor to the north and NCA 154 Hensbarrow to the west.

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5.2.2 Regional Level Landscape Character Areas within 7.5 km The landscape character of the Site has been described at a more detailed and localised scale within the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Landscape Character Study.

The Site lies within the South East Cornwall Plateau (CA22) character areas, the key characteristics of which include the following: CA22: South East Cornwall Plateau

Ŷ Open, medium to large scale gently rolling plateau with pattern of low irregular Cornish hedges with hedgerows and sparse tree cover;

Ŷ Mix of improved pasture on plateau with some arable, with Cornish hedges or post and rail fencing; Ŷ Trees occasional, on boundaries, around farmyards and farm entrances, generally only on lower land;

Ŷ Gently sloping and undulating stream valleys with very small patches of woodland in lower-lying areas;

Ŷ Large area of woodland in small valleys around Boconnoc with Deer Park and extensive designed landscape, also at Mount Edgcumbe;

Ŷ Spectacular coastline with steeply sloping coast zone ending at incised low cliffs with reef and small sandy coves. Unenclosed sandy beach punctuated by rocky outcrops;

Ŷ Scrub and bracken on lower coastal slopes and pasture and unimproved or neutral grassland on upper slopes, divided by straight boundaries in large pattern;

Ŷ Small peninsula at south-eastern end, forming narrow open farmed ridge with regular field pattern of low hedges, lightly settled; Ŷ Heavy recent settlement along transport corridors;

Ŷ Isolated farms and large modern houses scattered throughout;

Ŷ History and evidence of fortifications along the south coast; and

Ŷ Main settlement of .

Also within 7.5 km are the Mid Cornwall Moors (CA20), Fowey Valley (CA21), Looe Valley (CA23), Bodmin Moor (CA32), Camel and Allen Valleys (CA33) and and Valley (CA39). Summaries of the Character areas within 7.5 km of the Site are outlined below. Table 8: Regional Landscape Character Areas

Character Key Characteristics area name

CA20 Ŷ High ground in a series of interlinked ‘soft’ ridges with outcrops of bare and tors. Mid Cornwall Ŷ Pastoral land use on rising ground, with large expanses of open low-lying wetland with Moors wet woodland and rough grazing. Ŷ Exposed upland feel with few hedgerow trees. Ŷ Wooded around upper river valleys, with much wet woodland. Ŷ Lightly settled with isolated farms, but with major transport routes, Ŷ Strong visual influence of adjoining china clay area.

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CA21 Ŷ Series of steep river valleys flowing south into the River Fowey, terminating at the Fowey deep water system. Fowey Valley Ŷ Tidal river and associated creeks and streams, small areas of intertidal Mudflats, Coastal

Saltmarsh, neutral grassland and Wet Woodland on the upper reaches. Ŷ Dominant oak woodland on steep slopes down to river’s edge, interspersed with small pastoral fields on less steep slopes. Ŷ Estate parkland and ornamental planting including Lanhydrock (NT) and Glynn with extensive woodland plantation and parkland trees. Ŷ Strong influence of road and rail transportation along the river valley. Ŷ Large sheltered active deep-water harbour with much water-based recreational activity and commercial shipping. Ŷ Larger settlements expanded by their function as a port. Ŷ Smaller nucleated hamlets along the banks of the river and at the heads of creeks, medieval in origin, some with medieval churches. Ŷ Extensive conifer plantations at the upper end of the valley.

CA23 Ŷ Deep narrow twin valley systems running north-south to the coast. Looe Valley Ŷ Densely wooded, especially on the side of West Looe valley and in the small ria system Rivers near the coast, and with mainly pastoral farmland in pockets throughout. Ŷ Woodland and landform create a sheltered enclosed environment in the valleys. Ŷ Steep narrow windings lanes enclosed by high Cornish hedges, built of slate and densely covered in flowering and woody vegetation. Ŷ Tourist settlements, formerly fishing villages, at East and West Looe, face each other across the river mouth. Ŷ Hamlets at bridging points on valley floors. Ŷ Intertidal Mudflats of the Looe ria. Ŷ Small sandy beach at coast.

CA32 Ŷ Exposed large scale unenclosed moorland with gorse, bracken and heather. Bodmin Moor Ŷ Several dominant tors and visible over large areas - Roughtor and to the north with Stowes Hill and Hill to the south. Ŷ Shallow narrow wooded stream valleys becoming more enclosed and incised around the edges of the massif. Ŷ Isolated coniferous plantations. Ŷ Villages and hamlets on sheltered valley sides (creases); mainly 19th C mining terraces using vernacular materials and of distinctive local style. Ŷ Areas of recently enclosed moorland intake on moorland edge enclosed and subdivided, mainly with wire fencing and some drystone walls. Ŷ Extensive wetland areas of marshland around streams, often with streaming evidence. Ŷ Man-made reservoirs which are in scale but not in keeping with this wild landscape. Ŷ Widespread evidence of prehistoric activity, such as relict field patterns and standing stones. Ŷ Extensive upstanding industrial remains, with many chimneys and engine houses, tramways, dressing floors, spoil heaps and surface workings

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CA33 Ŷ Undulating plateau with valleys, steeply incised in places such as Camel valley. Camel and Ŷ Valleys well wooded, especially the Camel, with estate plantations, coniferous in places Allen Valleys and missed woodlands. Ŷ On the plateau, exposed higher land with medium scale fields and straight Cornish hedge boundaries with few trees. Ŷ In the valleys, smaller scale fields with sinuous boundaries and wetlands in places. On sloping land to the south, medium scale fields with prominent Cornish hedges and hedgerow trees. Ŷ Settlement is in dispersed clusters with estate farms on the plateau and small farms elsewhere. Some nucleated settlements focused on medieval church towns. Ŷ Village churches are landmarks on the higher ground. Ŷ Scatted of substantial later prehistoric hill forts and enclosures. Ŷ Mills, weirs and other industrial in Camel valley. Ŷ The main urban settlement of Bodmin.

CA39 Ŷ Long well-used sandy beaches backed by vegetated dunes, cliffs and recreational infrastructure grading into scrub and wetlands./ St Austell Bay and Luxulyan Ŷ Western end of coastal plain is highly developed with residential, commercial, light and Valley heavy industry, recreation and amenity. Ŷ Strongly undulating pasture farming plateau inland with small fields with trees and small woods, and linear woodland along streams. Ŷ Urban and industrial development around and Par. Ŷ Suburban belt on fringes of main urban area, with established country houses in mature treed grounds and scatter of residential development. Ŷ Wooded river valleys of Luxulyan and Prideaux, sparser on higher ground, associated with estates and country houses. Ŷ mining district has high concentration of early 19th C industrial remains.

These character areas are discussed further in Appendix 1 and illustrated in Figure 2.

5.2.3 Local Level Landscape Character – the Application Site The Site is located within an agricultural field currently used for cattle grazing. It is bound by low-level hedgerows on slightly rising ground affording views across the local landscape. The Site is bounded to the south by a minor road and by agricultural fields to the east, agricultural fields and woodland to the north and by a concrete access track, pond and further agricultural fields to the west.

The landscape of the surrounding area is predominantly pastoral and arable fields bounded by high Cornish hedgebanks which often contain hedgerow trees. The area is interspersed by woodland blocks, typically following rivers and stream valleys. The woodlands and tree belts form an important element on the skyline of the local area.

Locally, the main settlements are along the A38 and A390 roads, including Bodmin, Lostwithiel and Liskeard, with smaller settlements linked by a series of minor roads traversing the area. Farms are scattered throughout the landscape including Trewithen Dairy on whose land the proposed development would be located.

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A small number of individual wind turbines are located within the wider landscape, particularly East of Kingswood Farm (3.5 km from the proposed turbine), Great Tredinnick Farm (4 km), Callywith Farm (6 km), and Tortoiseshell Barn (9.5 km), all located within 10km of the proposed turbine site.

5.3 Landscape Planning Designations 5.3.1 Landscape Designations There are several designations within the wider 20 km study area, of which one is designated at national level as follows: Ŷ Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) - made up of Bodmin Moor (4.8 km north), South Coast Eastern (5.1 km south), South Coast Central (16.7 km south-west), Pentire Point to Widemouth (19.2 km north-west) and Camel (17.2 km north-west). Ŷ Pentire Point – Widemouth Heritage Coast 19.1 km north-west Ŷ Gribbin Head – Polperro Heritage Coast 10.7 km south Ŷ Eight Gardens and Designed Landscapes – Boconnoc (1.9 km south), Lanhydrock (2.4 km west), Pencarrow (10.9 km north-west), (11.3 km south), Tregrehan (12.3 km south-west), Lamellen (15.6 km north-west), (17.3km east), Heligan (19.9 km south-west), Within the 7.5km area considered for more detailed landscape character appraisal, landscape and landscape- related designations are as follows: Ŷ The Bodmin Moor component of the Cornwall Council AONB – this is an exposed and sometimes desolate granite upland area which covers Bodmin Moor. The landscape is treeless, and consists of heath, bare rock, bogs and mires. The moor is topped by granite tors and edged with steep slopes and waterfalls. Pockets of enclosed pasture and sparse woodland break up the wildness of the landscape. The moor contains shallow valleys, in which abandoned prehistoric and medieval hamlets lie alongside modern ones. The relief is undulating with rolling moorland and prominent tors, often capped with granite outcrops. The moors are drained by many streams and small rivers which exploit the weaknesses in the granite. The Site is also located within an Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) – a county designation for an area of land considered to have a particular scenic value, and is therefore afforded a degree of protection by local authorities. An area designated as an AGLV provides restrictions on development in the area, especially if it will affect the distinctive character or quality of the landscape. The Site is located within the Mid Fowey AGLV, valued for the enclosed and wooded character of the Fowey Valley, the water meadows on the valley floor, and the designed landscapes of and Lanhydrock.

5.3.2 Heritage Assets Heritage Assets within the study are identified in the Cultural Heritage Report but the key statutory designated heritage assets are as follows: Ŷ 84 Scheduled Ancient Monuments within 7.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 115 Scheduled Ancient Monuments between 7.5 and 12.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 5 Grade I Listed Buildings within 7.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 2 Grade I Listed Buildings between 7.5 and 12.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 30 Grade II* Listed Buildings within 7.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 44 Grade II* Listed Buildings between 7.5 and 12.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 404 Grade II Listed Buildings within 7.5 km of the Site;

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Ŷ 744 Grade II Listed Buildings between 7.5 and 12.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 1 Battlefield within 7.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 1 World Heritage Site between 7.5 and 12.5 km of the Site; Ŷ 5 Conservation Areas within 7.5 km of the Site; and Ŷ 3 Conservation Areas between 7.5 and 12.5 km of the Site. The effects of the proposed wind turbine on the setting of these heritage assets are assessed in the Cultural Heritage Report, but the key statutory designated assets are noted here as they contribute to the overall landscape character of the study area. Effects on landscape character are reported in Section 7 and Appendix 1. The landscape planning designations are illustrated on Figure 3.

5.4 Key Visual Receptors Consideration of key visual receptors has been limited to those with theoretical visibility of the proposed development within 10 km of the Site. Preliminary appraisal identified that significant visual effects are unlikely to extend beyond 2.5 km from the Site but given that there are a number of local and national landscape designations surrounding the Site a 10 km radius for key visual receptors was used to represent not only the significant visual effects but also the non-significant visual effects from designated landscape including the AONB. Key visual receptors in this area are as follows: Ŷ Lostwithiel; Ŷ Bodmin; Ŷ Dobwalls; and Ŷ Saints Way Long Distance Path.

5.5 Public Rights of Way There are a number of local and regional SUSTRANS routes and local Public Rights of Way (PRoW) within the study area, including the regional , the nearest section of which is located approximately 11.6 km to the south-west and with no anticipated intervisibility. The nearest PRoW is located approximately 450 m to the east of the Site at its nearest point, located in a north-south direction and connecting the A390 via Bedwindle Farm in the south and then on northwards, past the Site to connect to Drift Lane just south of Higher Hollycoombe Farm.

Three long distance paths are located within the study area, namely Saint’s Way, the and . Since there is no intervisibility between Camel Trail and the proposed development, there will be no impact on this path.

The ZTV shows there is very limited intervisibility between the South West Coastal Path, which at its closest is 11 km south-west of the proposed development.

At its closest the Saint’s Way is located approximately 5.6 km south-west of the proposed development and the ZTV shows there is limited intervisibility. These are illustrated on Figure 3 and are appraised in the Visual Assessment section of this report.

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6 Appraisal of Landscape Effects

6.1 Construction and Decommissioning The construction works would take two to four months and, with the exception of the turbine installation and foundations, would be fairly limited ground works related to the creation of an adequate access track capable of taking articulated vehicles carrying machinery. The table below provides a list of the construction activities to be undertaken together with an appraisal of the level and type of effect anticipated. Table 9: Construction Effects

Construction Activity Magnitude Description of effect

Site preparation in advance of the installation Low The track is very short and would be routed of the wind turbine, including the creation of through an existing area of farmland of low to new access track. medium sensitivity. The types of works involved would not be incongruous within a working farm and there would be a minor disruption to the landscape pattern. Movement of construction vehicles within the Medium The presence of construction vehicles would Site. represent new and relatively incongruous features within an area of arable farmland giving a short term moderate effect on the local landscape. Construction of the crane pad and turbine Low The construction works would be temporary, foundations. albeit resulting in the very small scale loss of arable land (> 0.4 ha) which would be a permanent and direct change. The level of effect would be minor. Use of crane to erect the wind turbine over a High The activity of the crane and the process of 1-2 week period. turbine erection would represent the introduction of a rapidly changing feature. This rapid change would give rise to a moderate to major effect on the landscape very locally over a very short period, but because of the short duration this is not considered significant. Laying of underground cabling and Low The substation would represent a new feature construction of substation at the base of the in the landscape although its height would not turbine. be above that of other agricultural buildings and it would not be incongruous. Activities related to the laying of the cable would be temporary in nature and result in no long term change to the landscape character. The effect would be minor.

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Table 10: Decommissioning Effects

Decommissioning Activity Magnitude Level and type of effect

Removal of the above ground features (i.e. Negligible The works would be temporary and restorative the turbine and substation). The crane pad in nature, with a minor (positive) effect on the and foundations would be covered and re- landscape. seeded.

6.2 Landscape Effects during Operation Post construction the Site would take on a simpler appearance as the temporary construction area and crane pad adjacent to the foundations would be restored to their original condition and the track edges re-seeded. The following appraisal of landscape effects relates to the introduction of the single 77 m height to blade tip turbine into the landscape.

6.2.1 Effects on the landscape character of the study area The Site is located within Landscape Character Area CA22: South East Cornwall Plateau. Cornwall Council's assessment of the sensitivity of this character area to wind turbine development is included in Appendix 1. In summary, the assessment identifies CA22 as being of medium sensitivity to wind energy development, with higher sensitivity within the AONB and naturalistic coastal edge and its immediate hinterland.

Although the scale of the landform is relatively large in the Cornwall context, the typical scale of the hills (just over 100 m), their strongly undulating nature and relatively smaller scale landcover pattern means this LCA would be particularly sensitive to turbines at the higher end of the ‘large’ category and to ‘large’ or ‘very large’ clusters of turbines. The proposed turbine falls within the 'medium' turbine category and within the 'small' cluster category, per the Council’s guidance1. The landscape character area is therefore considered to have a medium sensitivity to the proposed turbine. There are anticipated to be localised direct effects on the local character of CA22, indirect effects to a very small part of the Bodmin Moor and South Coast Eastern AONBs and localised direct effects on the Mid Fowey AGLV but with no significant effects on the coastline.

In cumulative terms, localised significant landscape effects are already experienced as a result of the operational and consented wind turbines affecting parts of character areas CA22, CA21, CA23, CA32, CA33 and CA39. The operational and consented windfarms combine to create a “landscape with occasional wind turbines”. The introduction of the proposed turbine would not cause a step change and these character areas would remain “landscapes with occasional wind turbines”.

6.2.2 Landscape Effects on Designated Landscapes The effects of the proposed turbine on designated landscapes within the study area are appraised below and are shown on Figure 3.

1 Renewable Energy Planning Guidance Note 3 The development of onshore wind turbines (February 2014)

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6.2.2.1 Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty The Bodmin Moor and South Coast Eastern sections of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) are considered separately due to their proximity and potential intervisibility with the proposed turbine. However, the remaining sections of the AONB are a minimum of 16.7 km distant and are not considered to be subject to any significant adverse effect resulting from the proposed turbine due to the distance of view and the well vegetated nature of the intervening landscape. Equally there would be no cumulative effect on the designated coastline.

6.2.2.2 Bodmin Moor part of the Cornwall AONB The Bodmin Moor AONB is located to the north and north-east of the site and is approximately 4.8 km distant at its closest point. It is a largely treeless, open landscape within which long views across a rugged landscape are possible. Although broken up by waterfalls, steep slopes and pockets of enclosed pasture, there is intervisibility between the western edge of the Bodmin Moor part of the Cornwall AONB and the Site. Viewpoints 6 and 8 illustrate the type of view from within this AONB although the ZTV illustrates the limited theoretical visibility of the Site available within the Bodmin Moor AONB. The Bodmin Moor AONB has a high scenic quality with a strong sense of place. Most of the 80 square mile moor is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), as well as an AONB. The moor contains shallow valleys, in which abandoned prehistoric and medieval hamlets lie alongside more modern residential areas. The sensitivity of the Bodmin Moor AONB is considered to be high and the magnitude of landscape change is considered to be locally low along its south-western boundary to overall negligible. The effect on the landscape of the Bodmin Moor AONB is considered to be locally minor to moderate adverse along the western edge but overall negligible for the majority of the Bodmin Moor AONB.

Cumulative landscape effects

Existing turbines are visible from the southern edge of the Bodmin Moor AONB as distant, small scale elements of the wider landscape with no turbines located within the AONB itself. The operational and consented wind turbines, concentrated to the north of the Site will result in increased views of turbines from within the Bodmin Moor AONB. The overall cumulative magnitude of change would be locally high as a result of South Bofindle and Great Tredinnick Farm. The local level of effect on the landscape character of the Bodmin Moor AONB is major adverse and the proposed development would not increase this cumulative effect further. Overall there would be no additional cumulative effect on the Bodmin Moor AONB.

6.2.2.3 South Coast Eastern part of the Cornwall AONB The South Coast Eastern AONB is located to the south of the site and is approximately 5 km distant at its closest point. This AONB stretches from Par Sands to Looe and encompasses the Fowey ria. This drowned river valley forms a network of creeks that lead toward a coastline of low cliffs and small beaches. Between the creeks, rounded land masses are dominated by oak woodland, much of which is ancient. , with its prominent beacon, has panoramic views along the coast and across the Fowey estuary. The spectacular and well wooded Menabilly Valley penetrates deep inland, whilst Cornish hedges support belts of trees that extend up the slopes from the main valley. Numerous historic sites and tourist trails are located within the AONB, but the steep topography and wooded valleys limit intervisibility between the coast and inland sites. There is therefore limited intervisibility between the South Coast Eastern AONB and the Site. Viewpoint 5 illustrates the type of view from the very northern edge of this AONB.

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The sensitivity of the South Coast Eastern AONB is considered to be high and the magnitude of landscape change is considered to vary between negligible and none. The effect on the landscape of the South Coast Eastern AONB is considered to be locally negligible along the western edge but overall none for the majority of the South Coast Eastern AONB. Cumulative landscape effects

Existing turbines are visible from the northern edge of the South Coast Eastern AONB on higher ground, but there are no turbines located within the AONB itself. Along the north-western boundary of the South Coast Eastern AONB the Tortoiseshell Barn wind turbine becomes visible, although the remainder are largely screened from view. The overall local level of effect on the landscape character of South Coast Eastern AONB is low to moderate adverse for the Tortoiseshell Barn wind turbine, and the proposed development would not increase this cumulative effect further because it would barely be noticeable. Overall there would be no additional cumulative effect on the South Coast Eastern AONB.

6.2.2.4 Pentire Point – Widemouth Heritage Coast This designation is 19.1 km north-west of the site at its closest point. The ZTV indicates that the Pentire Point – Widemouth Heritage Coast would have limited theoretical intervisibility with the proposed wind turbine. However,the undulating topography, woodland belts, built form and high hedgerows of the area would reduce this to very limited visibility and therefore a negligible effect of the proposed wind turbine on the Pentire Point – Widemouth Heritage Coast. Equally there would be no cumulative effect on the designated coastline.

6.2.2.5 Gribbin Head – Polperro Heritage Coast This designation is 10.7 km south of the site at its closest point. Although closer to the proposed Site than the Pentire Point – Widemouth Heritage Coast, the ZTV indicates that there would still limited intervisibility between the Gribbin Head – Polperro Heritage Coast and the Site. The intervening topography, built form and vegetation would result in a negligible effect from the proposed wind turbine on the Gribbin Head – Polperro Heritage Coast. Equally there would be no cumulative effect on the designated coastline.

6.2.2.6 Mid Fowey AGLV and Boconnoc AGLV The Mid Fowey AGLV is valued for the enclosed and wooded character of the Fowey Valley, the water meadows on the valley floor, and the designed landscapes of Glynn House and Lanhydrock. Viewpoints 4 and 6 illustrate the type of view from within this AGLV. The Mid Fowey AGLV has its south-eastern boundary with the Boconnoc AGLV, within which viewpoints 3 and 5 are located. The Boconnoc AGLV is valued for the prominence of Restormel Castle and the ornamental parkland character of the Boconnoc Estate. Viewpoints 1 and 2 are located on the boundary of the two AGLVs. Given that the two AGLVs share a boundary, the following assessments apply to the combined AGLV area.

Although of local and county value only, the AGLVs exhibit a sense of place, and reflect the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Character areas in which they are located. They typically border AONBs to the north and south and constitute a variety of habitats and terrain, incorporating designated heritage assets and registered parks and gardens. For these reasons the sensitivity of the AGLVs is considered to be medium.

The proposed turbine would cause both direct and indirect effects and the magnitude of landscape change is considered to be locally high. However, given the large size of the AGLV and the fact that large areas would be unaffected by the proposed turbine the magnitude overall is low to negligible. The effect on the landscape of

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the AGLV is considered to be locally major adverse and significant but overall minor adverse to negligible for the majority of the AGLV.

Cumulative landscape effects

The majority of the consented and operational schemes within the study area are likely to be visible from parts of the AGLV, with many of them located within it (East of Kingswood Farm, South Bofindle, Great Tredinnick Farm, Newtons Margate Farm and Callywith Farm). The overall level of effect on the landscape character of this AGLV is locally major adverse for the consented and operational schemes. The introduction of the proposed development would increase the spread of single turbines into the central portion of the AGLV but it would not cause a step change in cumulative terms, rather it would extend the characterising influence of wind turbines slightly although not to a significant degree. Overall there would be no additional cumulative effect on the AGLV.

6.3 Landscape Effects on Historic Parks and Gardens

6.3.1.1 Gardens and Designed Landscapes – up to 7.5 km from the Site There are two historic gardens located within 7.5 km of the proposed turbine, namely Boconnoc Registered Park and Garden, located 1.8 km south, and Lanhydrock, located 1.5 km to the west. The sensitivity of historic parks and gardens is high due to high landscape quality, condition and value. The ZTV indicates that both of these Registered Park and Gardens may have potential inter-visibility with the proposed turbine. However, the local undulating topography, vegetation (including alongside major highways such as the A38 and along river corridors) and built form of the area means that there would be very limited visibility and therefore a negligible magnitude of change and a negligible effect of the proposed wind turbine on either property. Equally there would be no cumulative effect on these properties.

6.3.1.2 Gardens and Designed Landscapes – between 7.5 and 20 km from the Site Historic gardens between 7.5 and 20 km from the Site include Pencarrow (10.9 km north-west), Menabilly (11.3 km south), Tregrehan (12.3 km south-west), Lamellen (15.6 km north-west), Catchfrench (17.3 km east) and Heligan (19.9 km south-west). These gardens are not considered to be subject to any significant adverse effect resulting from the proposed turbine due to the distance of view and the well vegetated nature of the intervening landscape and associated levels of screening.

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7 Appraisal of Visual Effects Appendix 2 provides a detailed assessment of each viewpoint including cumulative effects. In summary, the viewpoint assessment concludes that significant visual effects as a result of the proposed turbine would occur at viewpoints 1, 2, and 3 i.e. at those locations within approximately 2 km of the turbine location from which a clear view of the development is available. At 3 km distance (viewpoint 4) and above the level of visual effect is not significant. Additional wireframe analysis indicates that the threshold or limit of significant visual effects is 2.5 km from the proposed turbine location.

7.1 Visual Receptors Table 11: Visual Receptor – Settlements Summary

Receptor Assessment

Settlements of Lostwithiel, The settlements of St. Lostwithiel, Bodmin, and Dobwalls are all located Bodmin and Dobwalls within 5 km of the proposed turbine. Although the ZTV suggests that there would be visibility of the turbine, the public roads tend to be sunken lanes with high Cornish hedge banks which restrict many views outwards into the surrounding landscapes. Built form within the settlements also restricts longer views outwards. The sensitivity of the visual receptors is high and the magnitude to change is low. It is therefore concluded that there would be a minor adverse effect on the visual effects from these settlements resulting from the proposed turbine; which is not significant. Cumulative Assessment of The existing cumulative effects of the identified wind turbines have locally Settlements moderate to major adverse effects on views from local settlements. The proposed development would not increase this effect

7.2 Long Distance Paths The South West Coastal Path, which at its closest is 11 km south-west of the proposed development, meanders its way around the coastline of the south-west peninsula of England for a total of 630 miles. Viewpoint 5 (negligible magnitude) within the St Winnow AONB is the closest viewpoint to the South West Coastal Path. The sensitivity of the path is high due to it being a regularly used footpath. It is considered that the proposed turbine would cause a negligible magnitude of change from points along the South West Coastal Path which have potential visibility, leading to a negligible effect, which is not significant. Overall for the remainder of the South West Coastal Path the effect would be none.

In terms of the cumulative level of effect for those sections of the path where other existing and consented turbines shown on Figure 1 are visible, this would be locally minor to moderate to overall negligible given the distance of view to cumulative sites and the levels of screening. The proposed development would not increase this cumulative effect.

The Saint's Way long distance path, or Forth an Syns, is a long-distance footpath that cuts right across Cornwall from on the north coast to Fowey on the south. Roughly 27 miles long, the route passes

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through a rich and varied landscape of valleys, woodlands, pastures, moors and ancient field systems. It is located 5.6 km south-west of the proposed development at its nearest point.

Viewpoint 5 from within the St Winnow AONB is the closest viewpoint to the Saints Way path and it is considered that the level of effect of the proposed turbine in isolation from points along the Saints Way path which have potential visibility would be minor to moderate adverse and not significant. Overall for the remainder of the Saints Way path the effect would be negligible and not significant.

In terms of the cumulative level of effect of the proposed turbine in addition to Tortoiseshell Barn and consented and operational sites, it is considered that cumulative views will be small and of moderate adverse significance. The proposed development would not increase this cumulative effect. Similarly, the overall cumulative effect for the remainder of the trail would be minor to moderate adverse.

In terms of the cumulative level of effect for those sections of the path where other existing and consented turbines shown on Figure 1 are visible, this would be locally moderate as a result of Tortoiseshell Barn. The overall level of effect would be negligible given the distance of view to cumulative sites and the levels of screening.

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8 Conclusions The main (i.e. most 'significant') landscape effects of the proposed turbine would be localised and restricted to within approximately 1 km of the site. This is as a result of the medium scale of the turbine and the screening effects of surrounding vegetation and landform.

The main visual effects extend to approximately 2.5 km from the site although clear views of the turbine would be limited to short sections of the surrounding public roads where there are gaps in vegetation cover or landform which slopes sharply away allowing views over hedgerows. Beyond the 2.5km distance the wind turbine would be a new but simple and coherent vertical feature in a broad and expansive plateau landscape that is already characterised by other large scale man made features and movement, including wind turbines. It would affect a relatively small angle of view and become steadily less prominent with increasing distance of view.

There would be no significant landscape effects to entire landscape character areas or designated landscapes, or landscape elements such as trees, hedges or woodland. Localised significant landscape effects would occur within 1 km of the site. There would be no significant visual effects on most key visual receptors including settlements, routes, and key viewpoints although some significant visual effects will occur locally.

The report concludes that a limited range of significant cumulative effects occur and of particular note is the cluster of operational and consented schemes to the north of the proposed turbine between St Neot and Bodmin which would become a landscape with occasional wind turbines. The introduction of the turbine would not cause a step change to the overall cumulative level of effect in this area where wind turbines already exert a characterising influence.

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9 References

Relevant Literature Ŷ The European Landscape Convention Council of Europe (2000). The European Landscape Convention (ELC); Ŷ Department of Communities and Local Government, (2012). National Planning Policy Framework. The Stationary Office, London; Ŷ Natural England and English Nature (2005), Character of England Landscape, Wildlife and Cultural Features Map. Natural England and English Nature, London; Ŷ Former Countryside Commission and English Nature (1996) Joint Character Area Map of England Volume 8: South West. Natural England, Peterborough; Ŷ Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) (2014) National Planning Practice Guidance. DCLG; Ŷ Town and Country Planning Act 1990; Ŷ Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2010 (SI 2010/2184); Ŷ The National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure ; Ŷ Planning practice guidance for renewable and low carbon energy; Ŷ Renewable Energy Planning Guidance Note 3 The development of onshore wind turbines (February 2014); Ŷ Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Institute (LI) and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) (1995, revised 2002 and 2013); Ŷ Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland, Countryside Agency and SNH (2002); Ŷ Guidelines to the environmental impacts of wind farms and small scale hydroelectric schemes. SNH, 2001; and Ŷ Natural Heritage assessment of small scale wind energy projects which do not require formal Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) SNH (2008).

Websites Ŷ emapsite.com Ŷ maps.google.com Ŷ Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside for statutory designated Sites [online]. Available at: http://www.magic.gov.uk/

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10 Abbreviations

Abbreviation Full Text

AOD Above Ordnance Datum

AOV Angle of View

CLVA Cumulative Landscape and Visual Appraisal

DTM Digital Terrain Model

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

GIS Geographical Information System

LCA Landscape Character Assessment

LCT Landscape Character Type

LVA Landscape and Visual Appraisal

OS Ordnance Survey

SPD Supplementary Planning Documents

ZTV Zone of Theoretical Visibility

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11 Summary Tables

Visual Receptors Proposed Turbine (assessed in isolation of Cumulative assessment: the proposed turbine in addition other developments) to operational and consented wind turbine developments Sensitivity Magnitude Effect

Viewpoint 1 Minor road west Medium High Moderate to No other schemes would be visible and there will be no of the Site major adverse cumulative visual effect.

Viewpoint 2 A390, between Medium Medium Moderate Whilst blade tips of other schemes may be visible, there will be West Taphouse & Trewindle adverse no increase to the level of effect which would remain moderate adverse.

Viewpoint 3: A390 south of Medium Medium Moderate No other schemes would be visible and there will be no the Site adverse cumulative visual effect.

Viewpoint 4: Minor road north Medium Low Minor adverse No other schemes would be visible due to intervening of the Site, near Tawna vegetation and there will be no cumulative visual effect. Downs Viewpoint 5: St Winnow, High Negligible Negligible The cumulative level of effect would rise to minor adverse as a AONB result of Callywith Farm.

Viewpoint 6: Minor road High Low Minor to The cumulative level of effect would rise to moderate adverse between Mount and St Neot, moderate as a result of Great Tredinnick Farm. Bodmin AONB adverse Viewpoint 7: The Beacon, High Negligible Negligible The cumulative level of effect would rise to minor to moderate Bodmin adverse as a result of Callywith Farm.

Viewpoint 8: Minor road near High Low to Minor adverse Other schemes are visible but the magnitude of each is Whitebarrow Farm, Bodmin Negligible negligible and the overall cumulative level of effect would not AONB increase.

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Landscape Receptors Proposed Turbine (assessed in isolation of other Cumulative assessment: the proposed turbine in developments) addition to operational and consented wind turbine developments Sensitivity Magnitude Effect

Mid Cornwall Moors (CA20) Medium Locally low Locally minor There will be no cumulative effects within this overall negligible adverse to character area. overall Negligible Fowey Valley (CA21) Medium to high Locally medium- Locally moderate The effects are indirect, with the proposed high to overall to major development adding a further turbine into the wider negligible adverse to landscape. The operational and consented schemes overall Negligible have a locally moderate to major adverse effect and the proposed development would not increase this effect.

South East Cornwall Plateau Medium Locally high to Locally major The effects are direct, with the proposed development (CA22) overall negligible adverse to adding a further turbine into the local landscape. The overall Negligible operational and consented schemes have a locally major adverse effect and the proposed development would not increase this effect.

Looe Valley Rivers (CA23) Medium to high Locally low to Locally minor to The N. of Oak House wind turbine has a locally overall negligible moderate moderate adverse effect and the proposed adverse to development would not increase this effect. overall Negligible Bodmin Moor (CA32), High Locally low to Locally moderate The effects are indirect, with the proposed medium to overall adverse to development adding a further turbine into the wider negligible overall Minor landscape. The operational and consented schemes adverse to have a locally moderate to major adverse effect and Negligible the proposed development would not increase this effect.

Camel and Allen Valleys Medium Locally low to Locally minor The cumulative effects of the identified wind turbines (CA33). overall negligible adverse to have locally moderate to major adverse effects on overall Negligible the local landscape character and the proposed development would not increase this effect.

St Austell Bay and Luxulyan Medium Locally low Locally minor The Tortoiseshell barn wind turbine has a locally Valley (CA39), overall negligible adverse to moderate adverse effect: the proposed development.

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overall Negligible would not increase this effect.

Appendix 1 – Landscape Character Assessment

Character Approx. Key Characteristsics & Sensitivities with potential to be affected by Landscape Magnitude Significance Area Distance the development quality and of of from the Sensitivity Landscape Landscape Site to change Change Effect

Mid Cornwall 4.8 km Although the generally flat nature of the landform and human influence (in Medium Locally low Locally Moors (CA20), south- the form of pylons, roads and railway line) could indicate lower sensitivity to overall minor west at its wind energy development, the large areas of wet woodland and fen, the negligible adverse to nearest prominent skyline features of Castle-an-Dinas, Beacon and overall point Helman Tor (in the adjacent LCA), and the ‘wilderness’ feel of the moorland negligible landscapes increase this area’s sensitivity to wind turbines. Overall this LCA is considered to have a moderate sensitivity to wind energy development. The undeveloped moorland landscapes and the skyline of Castle-an-Dinas (one of the largest and best preserved Iron Age hillforts in Cornwall) would be particularly sensitive to wind energy development. Cumulative effect on the landscape character of Mid Cornwall Moors: None There will be no cumulative effects within this of the identified wind turbines are located within this character area. character area.

Fowey Valley 420 m Although the large hills around Lanhydrock, the presence of larger scale, Medium - Locally Locally (CA21) north-east more recent fields in places and presence of the A38 may indicate lower high medium-high moderate at its levels of sensitivity to wind energy developments, the dramatic landform of to overall adverse to nearest the majority of the valley system, the complexity of landcover, human scale negligible overall Minor point of the valleys, skyline features overlooking the valley, tranquil character and to negligible high scenic quality heighten levels of sensitivity to the extent that overall this LCA is considered to have a medium-high sensitivity to wind energy development. Areas of ancient woodland would be particularly sensitive. The size and scale of this valley system means that it would be particularly sensitive to anything other than single turbines of small clusters. Steep valley sides, woodland cover and a sense of enclosure and tranquillity characterise this area as illustrated in Viewpoint 4 which is located on the edge of the character area with views across it.

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Cumulative effect on the landscape character of the Fowey Valley: The effects are indirect, with the proposed The character area does not contain any of the identified wind farms, but development adding a further turbine into the they are visible from the edges of the character area where more open wider landscape. The operational and views allow, particularly towards the north-west. consented schemes have a locally moderate to major adverse effect and the proposed development would not increase this effect.

South East Within the A strong, beautiful, tranquil area along the coast, with fairly continuous Medium Locally high Locally Cornwall Site coastal scrub and historic fortifications, emphasizing the coastal zone's to overall moderate to Plateau strategic importance. Elsewhere this is a working landscape of robust negligible major (CA22) landscape character, generally high and somewhat windswept. adverse to Although the gently rolling plateau landform, relatively large landscape overall scale, simple agricultural landcover of much of the LCA, and presence of Negligible human influence could indicate a lower sensitivity to wind energy development, the varied field pattern of medieval fields bounded by sinuous Cornish hedges, the naturalistic coastline with prominent headlands (and skyline features) and moderate scenic quality increase sensitivity to wind energy development. Overall this LCA is considered to have a moderate sensitivity to wind energy development and moderate-high within the AONB. The undeveloped and naturalistic coastal edge and its immediate hinterland would be particularly sensitive to wind energy development. Viewpoints 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 illustrate the open views across an agricultural landscape available from within this character area. Cumulative effect on the landscape character of the South East Cornwall The effects are direct, with the proposed Plateau: the proposed turbine is located in the northern part of this development adding a further turbine into the character area. E. of Kingswood Farm, South Bofindle and Great Tredinnick local landscape. The operational and Farm wind turbines are also located along the northern section of this consented schemes already have a locally character area leading to the creation of a landscape with occasional wind major adverse effect and the proposed turbines. development would not increase this effect.

Looe Valley 4.7 km The dramatic landform, intimate scale, relative inaccessibility, tranquil and Medium - Locally Low Locally Rivers east at its undeveloped nature, presence of the Great Western Railway viaduct and high to overall minor to (CA23), nearest Looe Bridge as features, relics of the lead mines, and large areas of Negligible moderate point deciduous woodland mean that this LCA is considered to have a moderate- adverse to high sensitivity to wind energy development. The upper open rolling slopes overall of the northern tip are less sensitive than the dramatic valleys in the south. Negligible Of the identified cumulative wind turbines, only one – N. of Oak House, is The N. of Oak House wind turbine has a located within this character area and some 13 km east of the proposed locally moderate adverse effect and the Site. proposed development would not increase this effect.

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Bodmin Moor 6 km Although this moorland area has a relatively large scale landform, the High Locally low Locally (CA32), north-east presence of distinctive skylines, fine and detailed grain of human detail, to medium to moderate at its relative inaccessibility, sense of ‘wilderness’, frequent distinctive landscape overall adverse to nearest features (cairns, tors, prehistoric monuments) on the moorland and high negligible overall minor point scenic quality heighten sensitivity to wind energy development to the extent adverse to that overall this LCA is considered to have a high sensitivity to wind energy negligible development. Cumulative effect on the landscape character of CA32: Bodmin Moor: The The effects are indirect, with the proposed character area does not contain any of the identified wind turbines, but they development adding a further turbine into the are visible from the southern edges of the character area on high open wider landscape. The operational and ground. consented schemes have a locally moderate to major adverse effect and the proposed development would not increase this effect.

Camel and 4.5 km Although the presence of medium-large scale hills supporting larger fields Medium Locally low Locally Allen Valleys west at its and conifer plantations, and the presence of existing human influence could to overall minor (CA33). nearest indicate lower levels of sensitivity to wind energy development, the Negligible adverse to point presence of incised valleys supporting extensive broadleaved woodland overall (much of which is ancient woodland), and the presence of some important Negligible skyline features increase sensitivity to wind energy development. Overall this LCA is considered to have a moderate sensitivity to wind energy development (moderate-high within small areas of AONB). The smaller scale valley systems would be particularly sensitive. Viewpoint 7 illustrates this character area. Pawton Farm, St Breock, Newtons Margate Farm and Callywith Farm are The cumulative effects of the identified wind all located within the central area of this character area leading to the turbines have locally moderate to major creation of a landscape with occasional wind turbines. adverse effects on the local landscape character and the proposed development would not increase this effect. St Austell Bay 4.2 km Although the relatively large scale rolling plateau landform and presence of Medium Locally low Locally and Luxulyan south- human influence could indicate a lower sensitivity to wind energy overall minor Valley (CA39), west at its development, the presence of some skyline features, tranquil areas at Negligible adverse to nearest Luxulyan and Redmoor, and Gribbin Head, areas of upland rough ground overall point and relatively high scenic quality increase sensitivity. Overall, this LCA is Negligible considered to have moderate sensitivity to wind energy development outside the AONB and moderate-high within the AONB. The undeveloped coast and its immediate hinterland, the wooded valleys and upland rough ground would be particularly sensitive. Cumulative effect on the landscape character of St Austell Bay and Tortoiseshell barn wind turbine has a locally

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Luxulyan Valley: The Tortoiseshell barn wind turbine is located within the moderate adverse effect: the proposed northern area of this character area. development would not increase this effect.

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Appendix 2 - Viewpoint Assessment

Viewpoint 1 (Figure 4) Minor road west of the Site Distance from the Site: 363 m

Viewpoint Description This view looks east along a layby adjacent to a minor road towards the Site. The hard-surfaced layby is bounded by a low wall and grassed earth bund with occasional trees. The pasture fields of Trewithen Dairy are visible to the centre and left of the view beyond the layby boundary on slightly sloping ground. Trees and hedgerows line the minor road to the right of the view, stretching back into the distance. Further earth bunds, post and wire fencing and occasional trees demarcate field boundaries to the left of the view. The site proposed for the wind turbine is located in the centre of the view behind the line of small hedgerow trees on land approximately 5 m lower than that of the photograph location. The wireframe photomontage shows that much of the proposed turbine will be visible from this location, albeit behind intervening trees. The topography and intervening grassed bunds result in screening the lowest section of the turbine. The N. of Oak House transmitter is in the direct line of view from this viewpoint but some 10 km east. It is not visible from this location.

Sensitivity This view would be experienced by users of the local road, layby and residents at Grey Mare Bungalow (although the bungalow is heavily screened by intervening evergreen hedges). The sensitivity of the viewpoint is considered to be medium.

Magnitude of Change The majority of the proposed turbine would be clearly visible form this location, with only the base of the tower being screened by vegetation. The vegetation along the highway, field boundaries and layby would provide some intermittent screening of the lower and central portions of the tower in summer. The turbine would be a prominent addition to the landscape, although the screening provided by the intervening hedgerows would slightly reduce the level of effect in summer. The turbine would introduce an uncharacteristic and dominant element into the view and therefore the magnitude of change would be high.

Level of Effect The overall level of visual effect would be moderate to major adverse and significant.

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A390, between Viewpoint 2 (Figure 5) West Taphouse and Distance from the Site: 1.5 km Trewindle

Viewpoint Description The north westerly view towards the proposed Site shows the characteristic boundary vegetation that creates some enclosure along the transport routes. Grass verges and hedgerows line the highway, with long-distance views obtained through vegetation gaps and above generally well-trimmed hedgerows. Rolling pastoral fields and distant hills and visible across the view, interrupted by foreground and middle distance trees. The busy main road is a detraction in the otherwise peaceful rural view. Sensitivity This view would be experienced by users of the road and the sensitivity would be medium. Magnitude of Change The proposed turbine would be clearly visible with the full blade sweep visible against the skyline. The bottom of the tower would be screed by vegetation and behind the sloping ground from the viewpoint. For these reasons the magnitude of change would be medium. Level of Effect Moderate adverse and significant

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Viewpoint 3 (Figure 6) A390 south of the Site Distance from the Site: 2 km

Viewpoint Description This viewpoint location represents a view that would be experienced from the busy A390 to the south of the Site. The road climbs over a ridgeline, and the descent allows longer views across along the A390 towards the Site, situated on rising ground on the skyline of the view. The intervening ground is gently undulating with neatly trimmed hedgerows demarcating the irregular medium-sized agricultural fields, interspersed by copses and isolated farmsteads. Woodland belts and stands of trees form the skyline to the centre and left of the view to create a pleasant rural landscape. The view is considerably disrupted by large electricity pylons and wires as well as smaller telegraph poles and wires which cross the entire width of the view and impinge on the skyline. Sensitivity This viewpoint would be experienced by road users and the sensitivity is considered to be medium. Magnitude of Change The proposed turbine would be clearly visible on the skyline in the centre of the view, to the right of an existing electricity pylon, with only its base screened by the intervening vegetation. Despite its visibility, the magnitude of the effect is slightly lessened by the detracting features in the middle distance, namely the electricity pylons. For these reasons the magnitude of change when considered in isolation is considered to be medium. Level of Effect Moderate adverse and significant

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Viewpoint 4 (Figure 7) Minor road north of the Distance to the Site: 3 km Site, near Tawna Downs

Viewpoint Description This elevated viewpoint is located on a minor road running north to south from the A38 road. The viewpoint looks across the hedgerow across the River Fowey valley in a southerly direction towards the proposed development. The view shows pasture and arable fields across an undulating landscape, bounded by hedgerows and occasional belts of trees following stream corridors. The proposed wind turbine would be seen clearly on the horizon. Sensitivity This viewpoint would be experienced by users of the road and the sensitivity would be medium. Magnitude of Change The proposed turbine would not be a main element in the landscape, and it is considered that the magnitude of change would be low. Level of Effect Minor adverse and not significant

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Viewpoint 5 (Figure 8) St Winnow, AONB Distance from the Site: 5.5 km

Viewpoint Description This viewpoint is taken from a field access gate at the junction of two minor roads to the south of the settlement of Lostwithiel. The field boundary bank/earth bund and cut hedge allows a slightly elevated vantage point across the valley towards the Site, located in the centre of the view on the ridgeline of distant hills. The open view shows a rolling agricultural landscape with hedgerow boundaries, hamlets and blocks of woodland, but also industrial estates and residential settlements on the valley slopes to the left of the view. Foreground deciduous vegetation to the right of the view partially blocks longer distance views beyond, particularly in summer. Sensitivity This view would be experienced by users of the local road and the sensitivity would be medium. Magnitude of Change The blade tip of the wind turbine would be just visible from this viewpoint as shown on the wireframe (Figure 8b), albeit partially screened on the skyline (Figure 8c). However, it would be at 5.5 km distance resulting in a negligible magnitude of change. Level of Effect The overall level of visual effect would be negligible and not significant.

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Viewpoint 6 (Figure 9) Minor road Distance from the Site: 6 km between Mount and St. Neot, Bodmin AONB

Viewpoint Description This elevated view is taken from a field access gate which allows long, open views cross open farmland in a south- westerly direction towards the Site. The view clearly shows the agricultural qualities of the area, with most fields in this view being pastoral grassland enclosed by hedgerows. Large blocks of woodland are scattered throughout the landscape in the middle and long distance along with isolated farmsteads and hamlets. The topography is one of low rolling hills displaying a rural agricultural landscape. The view is interrupted by telegraph poles and wires in the valley, along with some traffic noise from the adjacent road. The Great Tredinnick Farm wind turbine is a noticeable feature on the skyline to the left of the view in the middle distance. Sensitivity This view would be experienced by users of the local road within the AONB and the sensitivity would be high. Magnitude of Change The proposed wind turbine would be clearly visible from this viewpoint, with its base and blade tips set against the skyline. It would, however, be of similar character to the Great Tredinnick Farm wind turbine and would not therefore introduce a new uncharacteristic element into the view. For these reasons the magnitude of change would be low. Level of Effect The overall level of visual effect would be minor to moderate adverse.

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Viewpoint 7 (Figure 10) The Beacon, Bodmin Distance to the Site: 7 km

Viewpoint Description This elevated viewpoint looks across open grassland edged with scrub, hedgerow and some trees. Although the trees provide some screening and contribute to part of the skyline of the view the view location provides long-distance views across the tributary and Bodmin and Wenford Railway in the valley towards Castle Canyke and the Site over rolling hills. The proposed turbine is located on high ground to the centre of the view beyond the middle-distant settlement. The turbine is party screened by vegetation and is seen in the context of surrounding built form, vegetation, rolling hills and granite tors of Bodmin Moor in the far distance. Light-coloured industrial units and housing are characteristic of the built form in the view, with the slim outline of the Callywith Farm turbine contributing to the skyline to the left of the viewpoint. Detracting features in the wider landscape include light-coloured industrial units, wind turbines and electricity pylons. Sensitivity The viewpoint is taken from a local monument and the area is well used by dog walkers. This viewpoint would therefore be experienced by users of the public open space (recreational users) and visitors to the monument. The sensitivity of the viewpoint is therefore considered to be high. Magnitude of Change The proposed turbine would be barely noticeable in the view due to screening and would not affect the character or quality of the view. The turbine would form a small element in the wider landscape and is partially screened by vegetation. The magnitude of change would be negligible. Level of Effect Negligible.

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Viewpoint 8 (Figure 11) Minor road near Whitebarrow Distance from the Site: 9 km Farm, Bodmin AONB

Viewpoint Description This elevated view is taken from a field access gate which allows long, panoramic views across the agricultural, pastoral landscape of rolling hills, hedgerow field boundaries and blocks of woodland. The foreground is occupied by a wall with broken down post and wire fencing on top. The hedgebank demarcates the field boundary, beyond which fields stretch back into the middle distance across a gently sloping plateau before falling steeply in to the valley. The view then looks across the valley to opposite hills, within which the proposed turbine is located. Three other wind turbines are visible in the view – Great Tredinnick to the left of the proposed Site, and Tortoiseshell Barn and E of Kingswood Farm to the right. Sensitivity This view would be experienced by users of the minor road within the AONB and the sensitivity would be high. Magnitude of Change The upper parts of the blades of the proposed turbine would encroach into the skyline of the view, but the distance from the viewpoint (9 km), the panoramic view and the limited amount of blade tip intruding onto the skyline will limit its magnitude of effect in the view. It is therefore considered that the magnitude of change would be low to negligible. Level of Effect The overall level of visual effect would be minor to moderate to negligible and not significant.

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Appendix 3 - Residential Assessment Initial site work indicated that residential properties within 1 km of the site are often well visually insulated and many are located in areas where there is also landform providing partial screening of the proposed turbine. As a precaution, however, the residential assessment was conducted within a 1.5 km radius.

The properties are shown with the ZTV overlain on Figure 12. All properties within 1.5 km of the proposed turbine were visited in mid April 2014. The assessment was carried out from the roadside or other publicly accessible areas. Additional desk-based assessment using Resoft wireframes, GoogleEarth 3D modelling and aerial photography was carried out to supplement the fieldwork and assist in forming the reasoned judgements outlined below. Grey Mare

Two-storey property affiliated to the development, located 300 m to the west of the proposed turbine. There would be clear unobstructed views of the entire turbine causing a high magnitude of change leading to a major level of effect that would be significant.

Greymare Cottage

Single storey property with roofspace accommodation located 413 m west of the proposed turbine. There are amenity areas adjacent to all elevations and a dense network of vegetation around the curtilage. The house is orientated east-west such that there is the potential for significant effects as a result of direct views. Viewpoint 1 is located in close proximity to the property and Figure 4 indicates the scale of the proposed turbine when viewed from here. However, the property is so well visually insulated by trees and hedgerows (including conifers), both around the curtilage and on the opposite side of the minor road immediately to the east, that significant visual effects would be very limited. Significant effects from the house and garden will only occur in winter months as indicated in Figure 4. Any views of the proposed turbine would be heavily filtered by vegetation although clearer views would be obtained when accessing the property. The overall effect would be minor and not significant. Greymare Farm

Modern single storey property located 553 m north-west of the proposed turbine, and at a slightly higher AOD height. There are modest amenity areas adjacent to all elevations. Access is obtained to the east. The house is orientated north-south and the main southerly view is at an oblique angle to the proposed turbine. There is a small window on a gable end which faces the proposed turbine and another medium sized window on another east facing elevation. There is the potential for direct views from these windows. However, views will be heavily screened by outbuildings, garden vegetation, and the hedgerow with trees along the minor road immediately to the east. Localised significant effects to views from the house and garden would only occur in winter months and these views would consist of the upper parts of the turbine only. Given that views to the south, east and north would be unaffected and the levels of screening, the overall level of effect would be minor and not significant.. Bedwindle Farm and Bedwindle Barn

There are two separate dwellings at this location, approximately 600 m to the south of the proposed turbine. The AOD height is 25 m lower than the proposed turbine and the land slopes to the south in the opposite direction to the proposed turbine. Although there is a potential for significant visual effects given the proximity to the proposed turbine, the properties are both very well visually insulated by the field boundary vegetation including mature trees which form a key characteristic of the local landscape. Significant effects to views from

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within the properties would only occur in winter months although there may be views of the blade tips above the intervening trees in summer also. Significant effects from external areas would also only occur in winter months. Given the overall level of screening, the position of the properties on lower lying ground relative to the turbine and the fact that the landform slopes away to the south in the opposite direction to the turbine, the overall effect is deemed to be moderate and significant. It should be noted that it was not possible to ascertain the number of storeys to the property or the nature of the fenestration when assessing this property from the adjacent highway. Kennacoombe House

Property located 713 m south-west of the proposed turbine. The location is in a depression towards the upper reaches of a minor valley such that the land falls away to the southwest in the opposite direction to the turbine and there would be no effect on the south-west-facing elevation and its adjacent amenity areas. Intervening landform would screen the lower third of the proposed turbine. A barn lies to the immediate north-east of the property and this would screen views of the proposed turbine from the ground floor windows. There is the potential for direct views of the upper parts of the turbine from the upper floors. Views will be heavily screened by intervening hedgerow trees and small woodland blocks to the north-east. The overall effect would be minor and not significant. It should be noted that it was not possible to visit the property due to private drive; however this limitation has been overcome through the use of aerial photography and GoogleEarth 3D modelling. Penadlake Farm and Penadlake Barn

Both properties located approximately 880 m north-east of the proposed turbine. The location is at the bottom of a wooded valley which runs alongside Drift Lane. Intervening landform would screen the hub of the proposed turbine from the properties themselves although when viewing from the north-easternmost extents of the curtilages the hub sits just above the horizon in the wireframe. Intervening vegetation would completely screen the turbine blades from the house, grounds and the adjacent highway. The overall effect would be ‘none’ and not significant. It should be noted that it was not possible to ascertain the number of storeys to the properties or the size and type of the fenestration when conducting the assessment from the adjacent highway. Trewindle

Property located approximately 1.1 km south-east of the proposed turbine. The AOD height is 40 m lower than the proposed turbine and the land slopes down southwards in the opposite direction to the Site. The main views appear to be to the south although it should be noted that it was not possible to ascertain the number of storeys to the properties or the size and type of the fenestration when conducting the assessment from the adjacent highway. Intervening landform would screen the base of the proposed turbine. Intervening vegetation around the curtilage consists of mature trees and these would completely screen the turbine from the house and grounds. The overall effect would be negligible and not significant. Dawna Cottages

The valley setting of these properties can be seen in the midground of the photograph in Figure 6, Viewpoint 3. There are 4 no. two storey terraced properties aligned north-south. The location is a depression in the landscape approximately 1.4 km to the south of the proposed turbine. Intervening landform would screen the lower parts of the turbine. Cottage no.1 (on the western side) is well visually insulated and there would be no view whereas the three properties to the east would experience views of the blade tip from upper storeys. The effect would vary between none (cottage no.1) to negligible.

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Fairy Cross

The valley setting of these properties can be seen in the midground of the photograph in Figure 6, Viewpoint 3. There are 2 no. two storey terraced properties aligned north-south. The location is a depression in the landscape approximately 1.4 km to the south of the proposed turbine. Intervening landform would screen the lower parts of the turbine. Both cottages are well visually insulated and there would be no view. The effect would be ‘none’. Fairy Cross Farm

The valley setting of this property can be seen in the midground of the photograph in Figure 6, Viewpoint 3. Two storey farmhouse located approximately 1.4 km to the south of the proposed turbine. Intervening landform would screen the lower parts of the turbine. Predominant view is southeast. Views of the proposed turbine would be heavily screened due to vegetation and existing farm buildings in the foreground. The overall effect would be negligible.

Higher Drift

The aerial photograph suggests there are two separate dwellings located approximately 1.1 km to the south of the proposed turbine within the Drift Lane valley which is at a much lower elevation compared to the Site. The properties are orientated north-south with windows on the south facing elevations facing at an angle of approximately 40° to the proposed turbine. Intervening landform would screen the lower half of the proposed turbine and intervening vegetation and buildings would partially screen the hub and blades. There would be clearer views of the turbine hub and blades in winter months. In summer months there would be filtered views of the turbine due to increased vegetation cover. Affected areas include the south-facing elevations and the adjacent amenity areas. The north-facing elevation and adjacent car parking and amenity areas would be unaffected, as would access and egress and the adjacent highway. The magnitude of change would vary between medium to none and would be low overall, leading to localised significant effects but an overall minor to moderate effect. Middle Drift

Property located approximately 1.2 km to the south of the proposed turbine within the Drift Lane valley which is at a much lower elevation compared to the Site. Higher Drift is immediately to the north of this property and the buildings and garden vegetation would provide some screening to any views from Middle Drift. The property is orientated north-south with windows on the south facing elevation facing at an angle of approximately 40° to the proposed turbine. Intervening landform would screen the lower half of the proposed turbine and intervening vegetation in the valley would partially screen the hub. Vegetation along the southern edge of the curtilage would provide heavy screening but there may be views of the turbine hub and blades in winter months. In summer months there would be filtered views of the turbine due to increased vegetation cover. Affected areas include the south-facing elevation and the adjacent amenity areas. The north-facing elevation and adjacent car parking and amenity areas and the main entrance to the property would be unaffected, as would access and egress and the adjacent highway. The magnitude of change would vary between low to none and would be negligible overall, leading to an overall negligible effect.

Lower Drift

Property located approximately 1.5 km to the north of the proposed turbine within Drift Lane. The orientation of the property is south-east to north-west such that any views from windows on the south-eastern elevation towards the Site would be at an angle of approximately 55°. The property is enclosed by vegetation including mature trees along the southern edge of the curtilage which would provide heavy screening but there may be

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views of the turbine blades in winter months. The intervening landscape features field boundary vegetation which would provide additional screening. In summer months there would be filtered views of the blades from isolated areas. Affected areas include the south-east facing elevation and amenity areas to the south, east and west. The north-west facing elevation and adjacent car parking and amenity area and the main entrance to the property would be unaffected, as would access and egress and the adjacent highway. The magnitude of change would vary between low to none and would be negligible overall, leading to an overall negligible effect. Higher Hollycoombe

Tenant farm set amongst mature vegetation along Drift Lane. The property is orientated north-south. It was not possible to ascertain the fenestration on the south facing aspect facing at a very slight angle to the proposed turbine. The property is approximately 830 m from the proposed turbine and whilst there is a potential for significant effects intervening vegetation within the curtilage and beyond would completely screen the turbine in winter months. In summer months there would be filtered views of the turbine due to increased vegetation cover. The north-facing elevation and adjacent car parking and amenity areas and the main entrance to the property would be unaffected, as would access and egress and the adjacent highway. The magnitude of change would vary between medium to none and would be low overall, leading to localised significant effects but an overall minor to moderate effect. Lower Hollycoombe

Two storey property set amongst mature vegetation along Drift Lane. The AOD height is approximately 70 m lower than the proposed turbine. The property is orientated north-south with windows on the south facing aspect facing at an angle of approximately 25° to the proposed turbine. The property is approximately 930 m from the proposed turbine and the base of the turbine would be screened by intervening landform which is a deeply incised and well wooded valley. Views of turbine are likely to be reduced by the large shed and stables within the curtilage and line of mature vegetation in approximate line of site. There would be views of the upper parts of the turbine from upper storey windows and also from isolated locations within the amenity area adjacent to the south-facing elevation. Views from ground floor windows on the southern elevation would be partially screened and the level of screening would be dependent on the season: in winter months the hub and lower parts of the turbine would be noticeable in filtered views whereas in summer only the blades would be visible above the tree tops. The north-facing elevation and adjacent car parking and amenity areas and the main entrance to the property would be unaffected, as would access and egress and the adjacent highway. The magnitude of change would vary between medium to none and would be low overall, leading to localised significant effects but an overall minor to moderate effect. Rosevinnick Farm

This property was not visited due to its location along a private track; as such it was not possible to ascertain the no. of storeys, main orientation, or fenestration. The location is 1.3 km to the west of the Site and the wireframe shows that the full height of the proposed turbine would be visible in theory. There is a valley landform to the south and the aerial photograph suggests that the main orientation is also south. Intervening mature woodland to the east would provide heavy if not total screening. As a precaution however it is assumed that the woodland would only provide partial screening and there would be views of the upper parts of the turbine from the upper storeys. The magnitude of change would vary between medium to none and would be low overall, leading to localised significant effects but an overall minor to moderate effect.

Conclusion

The high Cornish hedgebanks and mature hedgerow trees which are a key characteristic of the local landscape generally provide high levels of screening such that clear unobstructed views across the landscape are rare.

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Furthermore many properties are tucked away in sheltered locations such as within minor valleys facing away from the proposed turbine or adjacent to woodland which provides screening.

Beyond the 1.5 km radius there are several properties which are clearly visible in northerly views from the Site. These properties are located to the west and north of Viewpoints 4 and 6, including but not limited to Westside Farm and Gwel-An-Nans Farm. There would be direct, unobstructed views of the proposed turbine from some of these properties. However, these properties are located at distances of 3 km and above from the Site and the magnitude of change would be low to negligible leading to a minor to negligible level of effect that would not be significant.

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WSP UK Limited Foley House Glasgow G41 1HH Tel: +44 (0)14 1418 7350 Fax: +44 (0)14 1429 3666 www.wspgroup.co.uk