LOUGH KEY AREA PLAN
1. PREAMBLE
This Area Plan forms part of the County Development Plan 2008-2014. It is intended that a Local Area Plan will be prepared and adopted after the preparation of the County Development Plan.
This Plan provides updated information concerning the Lough Key Area and a framework for the management of development in an environmentally sustainable manner within the development envelope of the area. It is imperative that the implementation of development management in the County generates sustainable economic and social development whilst ensuring the conservation and protection of the natural and built environment.
2. LOCATION & AREA DESCRIPTION
Lough Key is located just east of Boyle, in County Roscommon. It comprises approximately 350 hectares of mixed woodlands, open parkland, a lake, and a number of mature wooded islands. This area was formerly part of the Rockingham Estate, home of the Stafford King Harmon family. Situated along the Boyle River, Lough Key forms part of the Shannon waterway system.
Lough Key and its surrounding landscape form part of an area of outstanding natural beauty, which is also of considerable recreational importance. Lough Key Forest Park provides opportunity for a range of recreational activities such as walking, kayaking, boating, and fishing, to name but a few. This area contains a rich diversity of flora and fauna, and is undoubtedly a hugely important asset and one of County Roscommon’s most important recreational resources.
The River Shannon system is a highly significant waterway that extends along the eastern boundary of County Roscommon. The waterway includes a major tributary, the Suck, and a number of interconnecting lakes including Lough Allen, Lough Ree, Lough Key, Drumharlow Lough, and Lough Boderg. The predominant land-use around Lough Key has traditionally been agricultural. However, with the continued decline in the agricultural sector, agricultural is no longer a major source of employment in the Lough Key area, and is conducted primarily on a part-time basis. Low intensity grazing is now considered to be the predominant agricultural activity in the area.
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3. NATURAL & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
3.1 STRATEGIC GOALS
• Conserve and enhance the quality of the environment of Lough Key. • Conserve the natural and built heritage of the area.
The Council recognises the importance facilitating recreation and tourism uses in the Lough Key area and the importance of the enhancement of the Lough Key Forest Park, through appropriate development, while discouraging sporadic and unsustainable development. The protection of good quality agricultural land and wooded areas from extensive development is also of fundamental importance.
Lough Key is recognised as a key strategic resource for the future development of the north Roscommon area. It is intended to promote the recreational opportunities on the lake as an economic and recreational resource for the benefit of the local community, without compromising the integrity of its environment for future generations. The Council recognises that there has been a significant increase in pressure for residential development, particularly holiday related, and recreation and tourism facilities in the Lough Key area.
Polices for Natural & Built Environment
Policy 1 Support initiatives, which reduce the risk of the introduction of invasive species, assist in the control and management of new and established invasive species, monitor impacts, raise public awareness, improve legislation and address international obligations.
Policy 2 Implement conditions as appropriate, as part of a grant of a planning permission or a waste permit, to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Policy 3 Encourage the use of native species in amenity planting and stocking and related community actions to reduce the introduction and spread of non-native species.
Policy 4 Ensure the appropriate management of forestry development in Lough Key, particularly in relation to the protection of scenic views, run-off pollution potential, and the importance of broadleaf woodland in landscape visual amenity.
Policy 5 Conserve and protect existing or future special amenity areas from inappropriate, poorly designed and poorly sited development.
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4. TOURISM & RECREATION
4.1 STRATEGIC GOAL
• Ensure the integration of appropriate tourism and recreation development in the Lough Key Area, having regard to the assimilative capacity its environment.
Lough Key is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Ireland. There is an observation tower, ice-house, wishing chair, underground tunnels and beautiful wooded islands. The immense range of habitats encourages a huge diversity of wildlife and birds such as summer visitors; the cuckoo, tern, willow warbler, whitethroat and blackcap. Lough Key is also home to a number of historical and archaeological treasures such as the 19th century ruins on Castle Island, ruined churches on various islands, Trinity Bridge and the Bog Garden. The Council recognises the significance of Lough Key Forest Park as one of the premier tourist attractions of the county and will continue to co- operate with Coillte, the private sector and other interested parties in the sustainable development of the park for leisure, tourism and amenity purposes. The Council will therefore encourage the provision of facilities and services in the town that complement the recreational and tourism opportunities available at Lough Key.
The development of Lough Key Forest Park, which is a joint venture between Roscommon County Council and Coillte funded by the European Development Fund, is near completion. The project includes three major attractions; a tree-top walk, a technology house, and children’s adventure play area. Walking, biking, orienteering, numerous water-based activities, and camping activities, amongst others also contribute to the Parks high amenity value. The Pay to Play Facility and the Interpretative Centre offer up to date tourism facilities for visitors to the area. The Boda Borg is a Swedish Technology Puzzle House and its incorporation into this project ensures that even in poor weather conditions visitors have activities to avail of. This flagship project will ensure that Lough Key Forest Park will continue to develop as a major tourist attraction and will help boost the local economy. It is anticipated that this redevelopment will significantly increase visitor numbers over the course of the plan period. Completion of the projected is expected by the end of June 2007. Other tourism products may be identified as tourism nodes which contribute to the tourism potential of the Lough Key/Boyle Area and the Lough Key Forest Park following further analysis.
Within the confines of the park there is also a landscaped caravan park providing space for approximately fifty-two touring caravans and a separate designated area for tents. A service building provides a recreation room, toilets, showers and launderette with an outdoor children's play area. There is also a kiddies paddling area supervised by a qualified lifeguard from July to September. In total there are approximately ten kilometres of forest walks, which meander through scenic areas such as the lake shore, canal banks, and extensive wooded areas.
The Council recognises that Lough Key Forest Park is under utilised with regard to tourism and recreation, and supports the promotion and marketing of the area within County Roscommon, nationally and internationally. The will seek to encourage and facilitate further appropriate new tourism and recreational facilities and services that will enhance the natural and unique qualities of the area and promote health and well being.
High quality hotels, which will not impact negatively on this environmentally sensitive area, will be encouraged in appropriate locations, in the Lough Key area. The appropriate regeneration and conversion of existing buildings in the vicinity, for tourism and/or recreational purposes, will also be encouraged. The Council recognises that flexibility is required in the zoning of land in the Lough Key area in order to provide for further tourism and recreational development. Visually obtrusive, unsustainable development will however, not be permitted.
The Council will therefore support the appropriate development of sustainable tourism and recreation within the region, through initiatives such as the Greening Irish Hotels Programme, which aims to develop and implement environmental best practice structures across the hospitality industry by
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encouraging hotels for example, to become greener by saving energy and making better use of existing resources such as waste energy and water conservation.
Polices for Tourism & Recreation
Policy 6 Enhance the provision of appropriate lake shore facilities and picnic viewing areas at appropriate locations.
Policy 7 Support the promotion and marketing of the area within County Roscommon, nationally and internationally.
Policy 8 Encourage and facilitate further appropriate new tourism and recreational facilities and services that will enhance the natural and unique qualities of the area and promote health and well being.
Objectives for Tourism & Recreation
Objective 1 Seek to facilitate the provision of roadside lay-byes providing road-based views, including the Rock of Doon to Corrigeenroe Road and the Smutternagh Road, amongst others.
Objective 2 Investigate opportunities to further develop the provision of swimming, boating, and a range of water-sports on Lough Key.
Objective 3 Support the provision of tourism related developments that promote the redevelopment of derelict sites, subject to appropriate and wide-ranging planning analysis consistent with the proper and sustainable development of the area. Such development, as with all tourism proposals, must be screened and assimilated into the landscape. They shall not be located in areas, or close to areas, where an unsatisfactory level of visually unsympathetic development has already taken place.
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5. RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
The Council recognises the significant increase in development pressure in the Lough Key area, particularly for holiday associated residential development. The increased demand for residential development in this area is largely derived from the scenic beauty and recreational potential of the lake. In recent year’s this development pressure has continued to increase significantly, fuelled by the ongoing buoyancy of the economy, improved accessibility, and the availability of tax incentives in the Upper Shannon Region. Speculative and non essential development will not be permitted in this sensitive scenic area. An appropriate exclusion zone around the lake will be maintained, with particular emphasis placed on the Doon Shoreline. Development proposals must have regard to appendices A and B, and the Developments Standards Chapter and General Conservation policy of this plan.
Generally; lands closer to the lake are more sensitive than more removed, open pasture is less capable of absorbing development than densely wooded lands, and steeply sloping sites are more exposed than flat lands. Planning proposals in scenic area are site specific, and will be dealt with on a case by case basis. Consideration will be given to the location of the proposal in relation to Lough Key, and any impact the proposal may have on the amenity value of the area.
Policies for Residential Development
Policy 9 Prohibit development proposals that would be detrimental to visual or environmental amenity.
Policy 10 Protect scenic views of Lough Key.
Policy 11 Prevent ribbon development along roads within the limits of the Plan area and immediately contiguous thereto.
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6. INFRASTRUCTURE
The N4 Curlew by-pass is one of the most recent infrastructural improvements to be made in the Lough Key area, along with the upgrading of the N4 Boyle to Carrick-on-Shannon Road. While the bypass itself will have the most direct impact on the area, the ongoing improvements elsewhere along this route continue to shorten journey times to Dublin and Sligo from the Lough Key/Boyle area. Improved accessibility will be of significant benefit to tourism in the area. In particular the council will encourage the prioritization of pedestrian and cycle routes. The Council will also seek to facilitate local bus route initiatives to increase connectivity between the Lough Key area and Boyle, and introduce formal bus stops/shelters at appropriate locations in the Plan area.
Despite the close physical proximity of Boyle Town and Lough Key there is little direct interaction between the two. However, the construction of the Boyle Canal provided a major opportunity to develop links between these two areas. Cruisers and other boat users will now be able to moor in the canal basin and walk into the town, while residents of the town will be within walking distance of the lake. In order to maximise this opportunity for the Lough Key area Boyle Town it is important that both the canal basin itself and the route from the canal to the town centre, are made attractive and interesting.
Policies for Infrastructure
Policy 12 Encourage local bus route initiatives to increase connectivity with Boyle and provide formal bus stops/shelters at appropriate locations in the Plan area.
Policy 13 Provide adequate pedestrian paths and cycle tracks along all main routes in the area to ensure safety and convenient access.
Policy 14 Ensure that all development proposals in the area fulfil traffic safety and car parking requirements.
Policy 15 Facilitate any attempts to restore the original links/routes between the town and Lough Key Forest Park.
Policy 16 Provide quality pavement and lay-bye provision along road access linking Boyle Town to Lough Key Forest Park, and the Knockvicar Road to the Park.
Objectives for Infrastructure
Objective 4 Investigate opportunities for the widening of access along the public road to the Doon Shore amenity area.
Objective 5 Facilitate a cycle lane between Boyle Town and Lough Key Forest Park, via Abbeytown.
Objective 6 Investigate opportunities to upgrade the public amenity area along the Doon Shore.
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7. WATER SERVICES
7.1 STRATEGIC GOALS
• Provide and maintain an adequate supply of water of suitable quality for domestic, industrial, agricultural and other purposes. • Provide systems for the safe and adequate disposal of sewage.
8. WASTE WATER TREATMENT
The recent upgrade of the Boyle sewage treatment plant will improve the water quality of the lake and ensure the provision of services to Lough Key. Roscommon County Council is currently installing, by contract, a sewage treatment plant and collection system for Cootehall.
9. WATER SUPPLY
The piped water supply serving Lough Key Forest Park is currently substandard and requires upgrading.
9.1 FLOODING
The Flood Review Study of Roscommon provides measures for controlling inappropriate development especially within flood plains. The Council recognises the importance of implementing objectives of the Study.
Policies for Water Supply
Policy 17 Ensure that the provision of water and sanitary services is guided by the ‘Water Services Investment Programme – Assessment of Needs’ which has been adopted by the Council.
Policy 18 Upgrade the piped water supply serving Lough Key Forest Park.
Policy 19 Ensure that all areas zoned for development within the Plan area are fully serviced with water supply and sewerage disposal.
Policy 20 Have regard to the Groundwater Protection Plan for the area.
Policy 21 Ensure that the existing Coillte package treatment plant in Lough Key Forest Park is decommissioned when the new pumped system to Boyle Town is operational.
Policy 22 Seek to ensure that septic tanks and other individual wastewater treatment systems are installed and maintained to the highest possible standards.
Policy 23 Ensure an adequate water supply in Plan area.
Policy 24 Implement the objectives of the Flood Review Study of Roscommon.
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10. LAND USE ZONING OBJECTIVES
10.1 CONSERVATION ZONES
An essential part of the attractiveness of the Plan Area is its unspoilt rural, agricultural character. Unlike many other of the country’s beauty spots it has not been compromised by the development of inappropriate and poorly conceived development.
The following policies have been designed to protect this character, so that the region can retain its inherent natural beauty and continue to function as working farmland while at the same time developing a sustainable, environmentally friendly tourism industry.
The visual analysis of the environs of Lough Key identified lands where development would have significant negative impacts on views on, and from, the lake. Generally, lands closer to the lake is more sensitive than those further away, open pasture is less capable of absorbing development than densely wooded lands and steeply sloping sites are more exposed than flat land.
The visual analysis carried out as part of the preparation of this report identified five separate zones as having different capacities to absorb development. The recommended development policies for these zones are outlined below (and are summarised in Appendix A). The General Conservation Policy applies to all lands within the study area.
10.2 GENERAL CONSERVATION POLICY
Agricultural operations such as pig and poultry farming can generate noxious odors and contamination of ground waters and are therefore not generally compatible with the promotion of tourism. They should not be permitted anywhere in the study area. All farmers within the study area are encouraged to join the Rural Environmental Protection Scheme in order to protect the visual and environmental quality of the lake.
Where development is permitted within the study area it should comply with the recommendations outlined in the design guide in Appendix B. Planning applications should identify all lands within the study area in the ownership of the applicant. The applicant may be required to enter a ‘Section 47’ agreement (Planning and Development Act 2000) with the Planning Authority regulating the future use of adjacent lands in his/her ownership, as a condition of granting permission. Generally development will not be allowed in a higher order conservation zone where it is possible in a lower order zone, or outside the study area.
Zone 1
Lands within this zone are the most sensitive to development. Generally no development, other than the refurbishment of existing structures, the development of jetties or moorings associated with an existing tourism establishment or development associated with agriculture, should be acceptable in this zone except in the case of lands at the Rock of Doon, Boyle, which have been identified as an ideal location for the development of a sustainable spa hotel. Owner occupier residential development for bona fide farmers and their immediate families may also be permitted where no alternative site in zones 2, 3 or 5 or outside the study area is available to the applicant.
It is recommended that all lands within this zone [except in the case of lands at the Rock of Doon, Boyle, which have been identified above] be considered for designation as Landscape Conservation Areas, as defined in Section 13 of the 2000 Planning and Development Act.5
Only the felling of over-mature trees and the planting of indigenous deciduous trees is acceptable in this zone, in accordance with sustainable forestry management. Any proposal for development within this zone must be accompanied by a Visual Impact Assessment. This Visual Impact Assessment should pay particular regard to the visual impact of the proposed development from the lake, surrounding lakeshore and Rockingham Demesne. A detailed survey of the site indicating existing and
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proposed contours at 1m intervals, existing planting and the proposed landscaping scheme, indicating proposed planting and management regime will also be required.
Landscaping should be designed to screen the proposed development and provide continuity with established woodlands and other planting. In all cases planning applicants for development in this zone are required to submit evidence of freehold ownership of a landholding of not less than 10 hectares (24.7 acres) within 500m of the proposed site (not necessarily all within the zone). Zone 1 is sub-divided into two sub-zones, Zone 1A and 1B, the recommended policies for which are outlined below.
Zone 1A These areas largely consist of woodlands fringing the lake and are particularly vulnerable to change. Not only are they a vital component of the visual character of the lake itself, they also serve to screen other, less sensitive lands. Permissible development should be limited to the categories of development listed opposite and subject to strict design controls.
Zone 1B These areas are less sensitive than Zone 1A but are nevertheless highly vulnerable lands. They are also the lands most under pressure for holiday homes and other leisure developments. The lands within this zone are generally transitional between established woodlands in zone 1A and open farmland, classified as zone 2 or 3. The proposed development should take cogniscence of neighbouring zonings, with development sited as far as possible from more sensitive lands (zones 1 & 4).
As with Zone 1A only the categories of development listed opposite may be acceptable. [Due to a need for tourist related development in the Lough Key locale an exception to this policy will also be made for the provision of a spa hotel at the Rock of Doon, which shall consolidate holiday accommodation in one structure, limiting negative impacts on the environment]. However in certain locations planning permissions already exist for development within this zone. Where live planning permissions exist and the principle of development is established, applications for alternative development on the same site may be acceptable, subject to the requirements for Visual Impact Assessments outlined above. In such cases high standards of design and careful siting of development are essential if impacts on the lake are to be minimised.
Zone 2
These lands are primarily open farmland with the capacity to absorb a degree of development. However because of the open nature of these pasturelands and their visibility from the lake, large amounts of development would be highly visible.
In order to provide for and protect the continued use of these lands as agricultural holdings and sustain local communities owner-occupier residential development for bona fide farmers and their immediate families should be permitted. Speculative development should be restricted. New development should be carefully designed to minimise negative impacts. New development should conform to the design guidelines (Appendix B). Where possible, access on to the public road should be shared with an existing ‘parent’ residence and the proposed new development should be contiguous with the existing building complex.
Zone 2 has been classified into sub-zones A & B.
Zone 2A In order to limit the overall number of houses and reduce pressure for speculative development planning applicants should submit evidence of ownership of a farm of not less than 10 hectares (24.7 acres) within 500m of the proposed site (not necessarily all within the zone).
Zone 2B These lands are similar to Zone 2A lands although more elevated and more exposed.
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They have less capacity to absorb development. A minimum landholding of 20 hectares (49.4 acres) should be required within 500m of the proposed site (not necessarily all within the zone).
Zone 3
These lands fall within the bounds of the study area but have no direct impact on the lake. While these lands do not have a particular landscape or ecological value they nevertheless form an attractive rural environment and are an important part of a visitor’s experience of the area. Roscommon County Council’s policies on development in rural areas should apply.
New development should conform to the guidelines in Appendix B.
Zone 4
This zone mostly consists of lands within the Forest Park. It is recommended that these lands be designated a Landscape Conservation Area, as Zone 1.
The further development of these lands for recreational and leisure purposes, including a hotel, preferably involving the restoration of existing structures in accordance with DoE conservation guidelines, but where necessary including the construction of new buildings, is encouraged. Great care must be taken to preserve the park like character of the zone and views from the lake.
Zone 5
These lands are within the two development nodes of Boyle and Cootehall. Where possible development within these zones should connect to the public sewer. Development within these zones should have an appropriate urban form.
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Appendix A Development Control Matrix
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Appendix B Design Guidelines for Residential Development
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Appendix C Landscape Character Assessment
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH01 Keadew Upland Steep Poor Heath Low intensive None Open moorland Scenery, High sensitivity Formation - agriculture - Economic Sheegorey telecom masts Member CH02 Keadew Upland Steep with Poor Heath-rough Low intensive Dispersed farm Regular 'Ladder' Scenery, High sensitivity Formation north grass agriculture houses and Enclosure of small Socio- aspect farm buildings fields. economic, Banks/ditches Rural image with little or no vegetation
CH03 Keadew Upland Steep with Poor Heath-rough Low intensive Dispersed farm Regular 'Ladder' Scenery, High sensitivity Formation east grass agriculture houses and Enclosure of small Socio- aspect farm buildings fields. economic, Banks/ditches Rural image with little or no vegetation
CH04 Keadew Upland Steep with Poor Heath-rough Low intensive Dispersed farm Regular 'Ladder' Scenery, High sensitivity Formation south grass. Some agriculture houses and Enclosure of small Socio- aspect commercial farm buildings fields. economic, evergreen Banks/ditches Rural image forestry with unmanaged, gappy hedgerow
CH05 Keadew Foothills Steep with Good Grass pasture Mixed Dispersed farm Mix of regular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation - south with irregular agriculture (low houses and square fields and Socio- Sheegorey aspect hedgerows intensive and farm buildings irregular polygonal economic, Member pastoral) with some fields with Rural image ribbon unmanaged, development gappy hedgerow along roads CH06 Keadew Foothills Steep with Good Grass pasture Mixed Dispersed farm Mix of small, Scenery, High sensitivity Formation east with irregular agriculture (low houses and regular square Socio- aspect hedgerows intensive and farm buildings fields and small economic, pastoral) with large irregular polygonal Rural image amount of fields with ribbon unmanaged, development gappy hedgerow along roads
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH07 Keadew Low-lying Gentle Moderate Grass pasture Pastoral Primarily ribbon Primarily large Socio- Moderate Formation - slope with irregular agriculture development on irregular fields economic sensitivity Sheegorey south hedgerows, roads leading with unmanaged Member some former out of Boyle hedgerows woodland plantation CH08 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Gently Moderate Ornamental Historical and Cluster of Open area with Scenery, Unique Formation undulating grass and ecclesiastical historic church clumps of Socio- wooded areas site of Boyle buildings woodland and economic, Abbey isolated trees Identity, Cultural Heritage
CH09 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Gently Moderate Occasional trees Urban area of Dense Primarily enclosed Socio- Low sensitivity Formation undulating Boyle Town commercial and by urban economic, residential framework Economic, development Identity (local town), Historical CH10 Kilbryan Low-lying Gently Good Occasional trees Urban fringe of Mix of modern Primarily enclosed Social Low sensitivity Limestone undulating & remnant Boyle Town - residential by residential habitation Formation with north hedgerows primarily development properties aspect residential and older ribbon development CH11 Kilbryan Low-lying Gently Good Grass pasture Urban fringe of Dispersed farm Small regular Socio- Moderate Limestone undulating with irregular Boyle Town - houses and fields with economic, sensitivity Formation with north hedgerows primarily farm buildings unmanaged Social aspect agriculture hedgerows habitation
CH12 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat Good Grass pasture Pastoral Dispersed farm Large, regular Socio- Moderate Limestone with irregular agriculture houses and fields with economic, sensitivity Formation hedgerows adjoining farm buildings unmanaged, Rural image Dublin-Sligo rail gappy hedgerows line
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH13 Kilbryan Low-lying Gently Good Open grass Pastoral Dispersed farm Large, regular Socio- Moderate Limestone undulating pasture with agriculture houses and fields with open economic, sensitivity Formation patchy, irregular farm buildings aspect due to Rural image hedgerows with some removal of ribbon hedgerows development along roads CH14 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Gently Good Occasional trees Urban fringe of Mix of modern Primarily enclosed Socio- Moderate Formation undulating & remnant Boyle Town - residential by residential economic sensitivity hedgerows primarily development properties residential and older ribbon development CH15 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Gently Good Open grass Pastoral Ribbon Regular 'Ladder Socio- Moderate Formation undulating pasture with agriculture development enclosure of small economic sensitivity patchy, irregular along roads fields adjoin hedgerows residential properties in ribbon development along road. Banks/ditches with unmanaged gappy hedgerows
CH16 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying flat part Flat Moderate Open grass Pastoral Some ribbon Generally large Socio- Moderate Formation floodplain of pasture with agriculture development on open fields with economic sensitivity Boyle River patchy, irregular northern side of some remnant hedgerows Boyle River hedgerows
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH17 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying part Flat Poor Marshy Marginal Dispersed farm Generally open Socio- Moderate Formation floodplain of grassland-rush agriculture with houses and area defined by economic sensitivity Boyle River vegetation cover recent addition farm buildings occasional clump of canal basin of wetland trees. linked to Lough Area dissected by Key open drainage channels CH18 Keadew Low-lying Flat Good Grass N4 Dublin-Sligo None Defined by cut Socio- Low sensitivity Formation embankments Route with spur and fill design of economic and margins to Boyle road. Boundary interconnection defined by concrete post and rail fence.
CH19 Boyle Sandstone Foothills and Climbing in Good Grass N4 Dublin-Sligo None Defined by cut Socio- Low sensitivity Formation upland a north embankments Route and fill design of economic direction and margins road. Boundary interconnection defined by concrete post and rail fence.
CH20 Keadew Foothills Steeply Good Grass pasture Marginal Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, Moderate Formation sloped and with irregular agriculture in houses and fields with Socio- sensitivity undulating hedgerows close proximity farm buildings unmanaged economic with east to N4 route with some gappy hedgerows and north ribbon aspect development along roads
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH21 Keadew Foothills Steeply Good Large tracts of Largely Sparse Originally small Socio- Moderate Formation sloped and commercial commercial disperse farm irregular field economic, sensitivity undulating forestry with evergreen houses and pattern - now Economic, with east some grass forestry with farm buildings largely obscured Rural image and north pasture with some pastoral by forestry aspect irregular agriculture with hedgerows areas of regenerating scrub/woodland
CH22 Boyle Sandstone Rolling lowland Gently Good Grass pasture Pastoral Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, Moderate Formation sloped and with irregular agriculture houses and fields with Socio- sensitivity undulating hedgerows farm buildings unmanaged economic, with south with some gappy hedgerows Rural image aspect ribbon development leading to crossroads
CH23 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Gently Moderate Grass pasture Pastoral Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation sloped and and poor with irregular agriculture houses and fields with Socio- undulating in hedgerows with farm buildings unmanaged economic with south proximity tract of with some gappy hedgerows aspect to north commercial ribbon shore of forestry development Lough Key leading to crossroads
CH24 Keadew Foothills Steeply Good Commercial Commercial Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation sloped and forestry forestry houses and fields with Economic undulating farm buildings unmanaged with east hedgerows aspect
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH25 Keadew Foothills Steeply Good Grass pasture Pastoral Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, Moderate Formation sloped and with irregular agriculture houses and fields with Socio- sensitivity undulating hedgerows farm buildings unmanaged economic with east with some hedgerows aspect ribbon development on upper road
CH26 Keadew Rolling foothills Steeply Good Grass pasture Pastoral Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, Special Formation sloped and with irregular agriculture houses and fields with Socio- undulating hedgerows farm buildings unmanaged economic with east hedgerows with aspect views of Lough down to Key defined by Lough Key blocks of older woodland and regenerating scrub/woodland CH27 Keadew Rolling foothills Steeply Good Mixture of old Woodland area None Woodland area Scenery, Special Formation and headland in sloped and deciduous Wildlife Lough Key undulating woodland blocks down to and regenerating Lough Key scrub and woodland
CH28 Keadew Rolling foothills Steeply Good Mixture of grass Pastoral Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, Special Formation and headland in sloped and pasture with agriculture and houses and fields with Socio- Lough Key undulating irregular marginal areas farm buildings unmanaged economic down to hedgerows and of agriculture hedgerows with Lough Key regenerating views of Lough scrub and Key defined by woodland regenerating scrub/woodland
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH29 Keadew Elevated area Steeply Good Mixture of grass Pastoral Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation overlooking sloped and pasture with agriculture and houses and fields with Socio- Lough Key undulating irregular marginal areas farm buildings unmanaged economic down to hedgerows and of agriculture hedgerows with Lough Key regenerating views of Lough scrub and Key defined by woodland regenerating scrub/woodland
CH30 Keadew Elevated area Steeply Good Mixture of old Woodland area Sparse Originally small Scenery, Special Formation sloped deciduous disperse old irregular field Socio- down to woodland blocks farm houses pattern - now economic, Lough Key and regenerating and farm largely obscured Wildlife, scrub and buildings by woodland Recreation woodland CH31 Keadew Elevated area Steeply Good Areas of Holiday homes Clusters of Originally small Economic High sensitivity Formation overlooking sloped regenerating newly irregular field Lough Key down to scrub/woodland constructed pattern - currently Lough Key removed in holiday homes not apparent due recent past to recent development and scrub cover
CH32 Keadew Foothills Steeply Good Grass pasture Marginal Dispersed farm Small irregular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation sloped and with irregular agriculture in houses and fields with Socio- undulating hedgerows close proximity farm buildings unmanaged economic, with south to N4 route with some gappy hedgerows Rural image and east ribbon aspect development along roads
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH33 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Gently Moderate Marshy Marginal None Small regular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation sloped grassland-rush agriculture 'ladder' fields with Socio- and vegetation cover unmanaged economic, undulating with gappy hedgerows. Rural image with south regenerating Scrub and aspect woodland. woodland Reeds along regeneration lakeshore CH34 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Flat Poor Marshy Marginal None Open area with Scenery, High sensitivity Formation floodplain grassland-rush agriculture. clumps of Socio- vegetation cover Private berths regenerating fen economic, with for boats on woodland and Wildlife, regenerating Boyle River up isolated trees Recreation woodland. top Drum Reeds along Bridge. lakeshore CH35 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Gently Good Grass pasture Good quality Dispersed farm Generally open Scenery, Special Formation sloped with a small pastoral houses and area with a small Socio- with north number of well agriculture farm buildings number of well economic, aspect established established dense Rural image Ash/Hawthorn hedgerows - many hedgerows of the original hedgerows have been removed for agricultural purposes leaving an open aspect to Lough Key
CH36 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Flat Good Avenue of Route from Entrance gates Route enclosed Scenery, Unique Formation/Kilbryan mature Beech Boyle Town to leading to by avenue of Historical and Limestone Trees Rockingham Rockingham Beech trees - Cultural value Formation Demesne Estate views under canopy over adjoining pastoral landscape
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH37 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Flat Good Grass pasture Good quality Dispersed farm Large squared Scenery, Special Formation/Kilbryan with a number of pastoral houses and fields defined by Historical and Limestone well established agriculture farm buildings dense, mature Cultural value, Formation Ash/Hawthorn Ash/Hawthorn Rural image hedgerows hedgerows CH38 Oakport Low-lying Undulating Good Primarily Location of the Occasional Large squared Socio- Moderate Limestone dominated by N4 Dublin-Sligo residential fields generally economic sensitivity Formation shelter belt route - recently property in open and defined interconnection planting of widened and along road by occasional, adjoining cuttings added frontage unmanaged, demesne lands - pastoral gappy to the north of agriculture to Ash/Hawthorn the road. south of road hedgerows
CH39 Oakport Gently rising, Gently Good Grass pasture Good quality Dispersed farm Large squared Socio- Moderate Limestone undulating land sloped with a number of pastoral houses and fields generally economic sensitivity Formation with north well established agriculture farm buildings - open and defined aspect Ash/Hawthorn residential by occasional, hedgerows development unmanaged, primarily gappy adjoins N4 road Ash/Hawthorn to north hedgerows
CH40 Keadew Formation Low-lying, Gently Good Grass pasture in Good quality Single farm Open parkland Scenery, Unique undulating land sloped parkland setting pastoral house and farm area with Socio- with north - edges of area agriculture. buildings boundaries economic, aspect defined by Ruined church defined by Historical and towards demesne tree and graveyard Demesne tree Cultural value, Lough Key shelter belts. in centre of shelter belts which Rural image Occasional area. surround area to mature isolated the west, south specimen trees and east. in area. Clumps of trees/wooded area around Church in centre of area. Avenue of mature Beech along route into Rockingham Demesne
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH41 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Flat Variable Erris Point is a Good quality Farm building Divided between Scenery, Unique Formation from Good large area of pastoral on Erris Point open areas of Socio- to Poor grass pasture agriculture in agriculture economic, bounded by open grass running down to Historical and woodland to the areas. Lough Key and Cultural west. Along the Woodland large areas of value, Rural shoreline to areas left established image, Lough Key there largely woodland. Wildlife, are large untouched. Biodiversity swathes of Reedbeds. Large area of woodland in poorly drained area defines edge of Rockingham Estate. Wooded along lakeshore to Erris Bay. Wooded area in round 'Folly' along lakeshore.
CH42 Boyle Sandstone Drummans Drummans Good in Area almost Mixed No residential Area largely Scenery, Unique Formation/Kilbryan Island is a large Island sloping completely woodland area. development in covered with Recreation, Limestone hill. Area south of moderately areas - covered in dense Amenity walks area. Entrance mature deciduous Historical and Formation this low-lying. sloped. poorly deciduous and through woods. buildings and coniferous Cultural Most southerly Lands to drained in conferous Berthing associated with woodland with a value, area undulating. south low-lying woodland facilities on Rockingham number of small Wildlife, gently rise areas Drummans Demesne. clearings Biodiversity with north Island Garden centre aspect located along main avenue leading to Rockingham Demesne
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH43 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat with Good Grass pasture in Good quality Dispersed farm Large open Scenery, High sensitivity Limestone gentle parkland setting pastoral houses and parkland area with Socio- Formation/Oakport slope with - edges of area agriculture. farm buildings few hedgerows - economic, Limestone north defined by post & wire fences Historical and Formation aspect woodland. Area used to break Cultural punctuated by area up into value, Rural occasional manageable image mature isolated agricultural units specimen trees and clumps of trees/wooded areas in centre of area. CH44 Oakport Low-lying Flat with Good Grass pasture in Good quality Dispersed farm Large open Scenery, High sensitivity Limestone gentle parkland setting pastoral & houses and parkland area with Socio- Formation slope with - edges of area arable farm buildings a number of small economic, north defined by agriculture. hedgerows Historical and aspect woodland. Cultural value, Rural image CH45 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat with Good Grass pasture in Good quality Dispersed farm Large open Scenery, High sensitivity Limestone gentle parkland setting pastoral houses and parkland area with Socio- Formation/Oakport slope with - edges of area agriculture. farm buildings a number of small economic, Limestone north defined by hedgerows Historical and Formation aspect woodland. Cultural value, Rural image CH46 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat with Good Area almost Mixed A small number Area largely Scenery, Moderate Limestone gentle completely woodland area of residential covered with Socio- sensitivity Formation slope with covered in dense properties set in mature deciduous economic, north deciduous and woodland and coniferous Historical and aspect conferous woodland with a Cultural woodland number of small value, Rural clearings image
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH47 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat Good Area almost Mixed None Area largely Socio- Moderate Limestone completely covered woodland area. covered with economic, sensitivity Formation in dense deciduous Full planning mature Historical and woodland and permission has deciduous and Cultural dense been recently coniferous value, Rural laural/rhododendron granted to woodland with a image, undergrowth develop holiday number of small Recreation accommodation clearings units in the area
CH48 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat Good Grass area Amenity - Caravan- Enclosed by Socio- Moderate Limestone surrounded by camping facility camping area woodland economic, sensitivity Formation woodland managed by recreation Coillte.
CH49 Boyle Sandstone Generally low- Gently Good Parkland trees set Amenity area Remnants of Generally an Socio- Unique Formation lying with rising undulating in grassland setting. managed by original open area economic, ground at Clumps of Coillte. Car Rockingham defined by Historical and location of ornamental trees parking House and surrounding Cultural Rockingham along the shoreline facilities, shop, associated woodland edge value, Rural House of Lough Key playground, structures (ice and shore of image picnic areas. house, stables, Lough Key. Berthing underground facilities passages). available. Full More recent planning addition of permission Moylurg Tower granted to - a viewing redevelop tower over visitor centre Lough Key. and associated development.
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH50 Kilbryan Rolling Lowland General Good in Parkland trees Good quality Dispersed farm Generally an open Socio- Special Limestone flat but sloping set in grassland pastoral houses and area defined by economic, Formation/Oakport locally ground - setting. Clumps agriculture farm buildings surrounding Historical and Limestone steep poorly of trees and woodland edge Cultural Formation slopes to drained in isolated and shore of value, a number low-lying specimen trees Lough Key. Old Wildlife of hills in areas scattered estate type steel the area adjoining throughout the post and rail fence stream area. line the road running through the area. Recent addition of chain link fence to 'patch-up' fence. CH51 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat Generally Mixture of Mixed forestry None Enclosed by Scenery, Special Limestone poor deciduous and woodland - estate Recreation, Formation/Oakport commercial wall delineates Historical and Limestone evergreen boundary along Cultural Formation forestry road to Knockvicar. value, plantation Recreation CH52 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Flat Moderate Deciduous Woodland area Ruined Wooded area Scenery, Unique Formation/Kilbryan woodland area Cloontykilla adjoin Lough Key Recreation, Limestone adjoining Lough Castle close to Historical and Formation Key Lough Key Cultural value, Recreation CH53 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat Poor Bog Commercial None Open area of bog Economic, High sensitivity Limestone and private bounded by Wildlife Formation peat extraction woodland or dense hedgerows/thickets CH54 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat Good Grass pasture Pastoral Dispersed farm Mixture of small Scenery, High sensitivity Limestone with irregular agriculture. houses and and large irregular Socio- Formation/Oakport hedgerows. Some farm buildings fields. Open economic, Limestone Some evergreen commercial aspect in some Rural image Formation forestry forestry areas due to removal of hedgerows for agriculture.
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH55 Oakport Limestone Low-lying Flat Moderate- Combination of Pastoral None Area defined by Scenery, Special Formation poor. woodland, agriculture and woodland. Few wildlife Area grassland, rush marginal areas boundaries or around Fin and lakeshore of agriculture. hedgerows Lough vegetation. Some forestry. particularly liable to evident flood CH56 Oakport Limestone Low-lying Flat with Good Grass pasture in Good quality Dispersed farm Combination of Scenery, High sensitivity Formation/Ballymore gentle parkland setting pastoral houses and small-medium Socio- Beds slope - edges of area agriculture. farm buildings sized square economic, with defined by Garden centre fields and more Historical and northeast woodland. and nursery open large Cultural value aspect Dense located on grassland areas hedgerows with Knockvicar larger sporadic Road. Ash trees common in the area.
CH57 Ballymore Beds Low-lying Flat Good Deciduous Wooded area - A small number Area defined by Scenery, Special wooded area original shelter of residential woodland. Historical and belt to properties Cultural boundary of located at the value, Rockingham entrance to Wildlife Demesne Rockingham Demesne and at Ardcarne.
CH58 Ballymore Beds Elevated area Rounded Good Grass land and Church Location of Generally open Scenery, Unique hill clumps of grounds Ardcarne area, with a small Socio- woodland surrounded by Church and number of economic, pastoral graveyard. rectilinear Historical and agriculture Also hedgerows Cultural archaeological running through value, Rural site of medieval the area. image settlement.
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH59 Oakport Limestone Low-lying Flat Good Grass pasture Good quality Dispersed farm Mixture of small Scenery, Moderate Formation/Ballymore with a small mixed houses and and large regular, Socio- sensitivity Beds number of well agriculture farm buildings squared fields. economic, established (pastoral and Large, dense, Historical and Ash/Hawthorn arable) unmanaged Cultural hedgerows hawthorn value, Rural hedgerows with image larger ash trees.
CH60 Oakport Limestone Low-lying Undulating Good Grass pasture Good quality Oakport House Oakport Demesne Scenery, Special Formation with a small pastoral - estate house large open Socio- number of well agriculture on Oakport parkland area with economic, established Lough. clumps of Historical and Ash/Hawthorn Dispersed woodland and Cultural hedgerows. houses and specimen trees. value, Rural Areas of farm buildings Small irregular image woodland along at Cuilmore fields at Cuilmore lakeshore to Oakport Lough
CH61 Oakport Limestone Low-lying Flat Good - Mixture of grass Mixture of Linear An open area with Scenery, High sensitivity Formation poor areas pasture and pastoral development some small fields Socio- around rough poorly agriculture, along main defined by small, economic, edge of drained marginal road leading to unmanaged, Rural image Boyle grass/rushy agriculture. Cootehall gappy hedgerows River areas
CH62 Oakport Limestone Low-lying Flat Good Grass pasture Good quality Dispersed farm An open area with Scenery, Moderate Formation with a small pastoral houses and some small fields Socio- sensitivity number of well agriculture. farm buildings defined by small, economic, established unmanaged, Social Ash/Hawthorn gappy hedgerows Habitation, hedgerows Rural image
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Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH63 Oakport Low-lying Flat Moderate Riverside Road and Some ribbon An enclosed area Scenery, High sensitivity Limestone (riparian) tree bridge crossing development defined by the Socio- Formation cover along into Cootehall. on approach riparian economic, banks of Boyle Fishing points road into vegetation, bridge Rural image River along banks of Cootehall. and buildings on river. Berthing Restaurant and river edge. facilities and berthing restaurant facilities along below river edge Cootehall leading into bridge. Cootehall Lough CH64 Oakport Low-lying Flat Good Riverside Good quality None Area defined by Scenery, High sensitivity Limestone (riparian) tree pastoral tree vegetation Socio- Formation cover along agriculture. along banks of economic, banks of Oakport Lough Rural image Oakport Lough
CH65 Oakport Low-lying Flat Good Grass pasture Cootehall Ribbon Small, rectilinear Scenery, Moderate Limestone with areas with Village. development fields defined by Socio- sensitivity Formation dense Housing along roads limestone walls economic, hawthorn/Ash Development. around and hawthorn Rural image hedgerows Good quality Cootehall. hedgerows. pastoral agriculture in surrounding areas
CH66 Oakport Low-lying Gentle Good on Grass pasture Primarily Dispersed farm An open area with Scenery, High sensitivity Limestone slope high ground with areas with pastoral houses and medium to large Socio- Formation south - poor dense agriculture. farm buildings. regular fields economic, towards immediately hawthorn/Ash Some ribbon defined by Rural image Boyle adjacent to hedgerows. development limestone walls River. River. Riparian tree along road from and/or cover along Cootehall to hawthorn/ash river. Knockvicar. hedgerows.
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH67 Oakport Low-lying Flat Poor Riparian tree Wooded or None An open area Scenery, Special Limestone cover, swathes pastoral defined by Socio- Formation of reedbeds or agricultural vegetation in economic, open grass- areas. adjoining Rural image rushy land Berthing character areas. coming to river facilities-marina edge and restaurant near Knockvicar. CH68 Oakport Low-lying Flat Moderate Area of actively Commercial None Area defined by Economic, Moderate Limestone to poor managed forestry mature forestry Rural image sensitivity Formation forestry with plantations and 3 stands of mature Loughs in the trees and young area plantation. CH69 Oakport Low-lying Flat Moderate- Area of recently Commercial None Original enclosure Economic, High sensitivity Limestone poor. planted forestry not visible under Rural image Formation commercial coniferous forestry plantation
CH70 Kilbryan Low-lying Flat Good Grass pasture Road and Dispersed Small, rectilinear Socio- Moderate Limestone with areas with bridge crossing village layout fields defined by economic, sensitivity Formation dense into Knockvicar with linear hawthorn and ash Rural image hawthorn/ash village. development hedgerows. hedgerows Berthing along roads facilities at Knockvicar Bridge.
CH71 Kilbryan Low-lying Gently Good Grass pasture Housing to Ribbon Medium to large Socio- Moderate Limestone sloped with with areas with Knockvicar development regular fields with economic, sensitivity Formation south dense village and along roads unmanaged Rural image aspect hawthorn/Ash pastoral hedgerows hedgerows agriculture
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH72 Boyle Sandstone Elevated, hilly Undulating Good Grass pasture Primarily Dispersed farm Medium to large Socio- Moderate Formation/Kilbryan land with with areas with pastoral houses and regular fields. economic, sensitivity Limestone general hawthorn/Ash agriculture. farm buildings. Open aspect in Rural image Formation/Keadew south hedgerows Some ribbon some areas due Formation facing development to removal of aspect along road from hedgerows for Cootehall to agriculture. Knockvicar.
CH73 Keadew Formation Elevated, hilly Undulating Good Grass pasture Primarily Dispersed farm Medium to large Socio- Moderate land with with areas with pastoral houses and regular fields with economic, sensitivity general dense agriculture. farm buildings. unmanaged Rural image south hawthorn/Ash Some ribbon hedgerows facing hedgerows development aspect along road from Cootehall to Knockvicar.
CH74 Keadew Formation Elevated, hilly Undulating Good Grass pasture Primarily Dispersed farm Small, irregular Socio- Moderate land with areas with pastoral houses and fields with economic, sensitivity dense agriculture. farm buildings. unmanaged Rural image hawthorn/Ash hedgerows hedgerows
CH75 Boyle Sandstone Elevated, hilly Undulating Good Grass pasture Mixed Dispersed farm Mix of regular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation land with irregular agriculture (low houses and square fields and Socio- hedgerows intensive and farm buildings irregular polygonal economic, pastoral) with some fields with Rural image ribbon unmanaged, development gappy hedgerow along roads
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH76 Boyle Sandstone Low-lying Undulating Good Grass pasture Mixed Dispersed farm Small, irregular Scenery, Special Formation with with established agriculture (low houses and fields with Socio- general hawthorn-Ash intensive and farm buildings unmanaged economic, south hedgerows and pastoral). with some hedgerows Rural image facing clumps of Location of ribbon aspect woodland. Grass marina/berthing development areas extent facilities, along roads down to boatyard, and lakeshore. restaurant. Extensive reedbeds along lakeshore. CH77 Boyle Sandstone Elevated, hilly Undulating Good Deciduous Deciduous None None Scenery, Special Formation land wooded area wooded area Socio- economic, Rural image, Wildlife
CH78 Boyle Sandstone Elevated, hilly Hilly Moderate Rough grass Low intensive, None Small, irregular Scenery, High sensitivity Formation land area marginal fields with Socio- agriculture unmanaged economic, hedgerows Rural image
CH79 Keadew Low-lying Steep Good Deciduous Deciduous None None Scenery, Special Formation slope with wooded area wooded area Socio- south economic, aspect Rural image
CH80 Keadew Elevated, hilly Undulating Good Grass pasture Mixed Dispersed farm Regular 'Ladder' Scenery, High sensitivity Formation land with with established agriculture (low houses and Enclosure of small Socio- general hawthorn-Ash intensive and farm buildings . fields. economic, south hedgerows and pastoral). Remnants of Banks/ditches Rural image facing clumps of Location of derelict ribbon with unmanaged, aspect woodland. marina/berthing development established Areas of facilities, along running hawthorn/Ash regenerating boatyard, and parallel hedgerow scrub/woodland restaurant. between road and Lough Key
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH81 Keadew Low-lying South Good- Thin band of Deciduous None None Scenery, Special Formation facing moderate deciduous wooded area Wildlife slope woodland along lakeshore
CH82 Keadew Elevated, hilly North Moderate Grass pasture Mixed Dispersed Combination of regular Scenery, Moderate Formation land facing with established agriculture farm houses 'Ladder' enclosure of small Socio- sensitivity slope hawthorn-Ash (low intensive and farm fields and small irregular economic, hedgerows and and pastoral). buildings. fields. Banks/ditches with Rural image clumps of unmanaged, established woodland. hawthorn/Ash/Willow/Alder Areas of hedgerow regenerating scrub/woodland
CH83 Keadew Elevated, hilly Undulating Good Grass pasture Mixed Dispersed Combination of regular Scenery, Moderate Formation/Boyle land with established agriculture farm houses 'Ladder' enclosure of small Socio- sensitivity Sandstone hawthorn-Ash (low intensive and farm fields and small irregular economic, Formation hedgerows and and pastoral). buildings. fields. Banks/ditches with Rural image clumps of unmanaged, established woodland. hawthorn/Ash/Willow/Alder Areas of hedgerow regenerating scrub/woodland
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Landform Landcover Value Sensitivity
Geology Geomorphology Slope Drainage Vegetation Land Use Settlement Enclosure
Geological Series
Character Area
CH84 Keadew Low-lying Gentle Poor Regenerating Mixed Dispersed farm Small, irregular Scenery, Moderate Formation slope with scrub/woodland agriculture (low houses and fields with Socio- sensitivity south intensive and farm buildings. unmanaged economic, aspect pastoral). hedgerows Rural image
CH85 Keadew Elevated, hilly Undulating Good- Deciduous Deciduous None None Scenery, Special Formation land moderate woodland along wooded area Socio- lakeshore economic, Rural image
CH86 Keadew Low-lying Flat Moderate- Deciduous Deciduous None None Scenery, Special Formation/Boyle poor woodland area wooded area Rural image Sandstone adjoining Lough Formation Key
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