Land at Manydown, shaping a place, creating a community Basingstoke MSD3R: Landscape Strategy
Revision July 2018
Note: This document is a revision and supersedes the version submitted March 2017.
shaping a place, creating a community MSD3R: Landscape Strategy
Q addition of an area of ‘Strategic Multi-Functional Green Space: Green corridors Summary of changes to application material and Buffers’ south of A339 where the potential location of allotments is Since the original submission in March 2017, there have been a number of changes identified; to the planning application in response to comments from Statutory Consultees, Q addition of ‘Strategic Multi-Functional Green Space: Green Corridors and members of the public and the Local Planning Authority. In summary, these changes Buffers’ to the south of the B3400 and ‘Strategic Multi-Functional Green are as follows: Space: Biodiversity and Landscape Features’ to the north of the B3400; Q confirmation that the Proposed Development will be for approximately 3,200 Q extension of the 25 metre noise and vibration buffer adjacent to the railway on homes (up to a maximum of 3,520 homes). Within the ES submitted as part of the Open Space and Landscape Parameter Plan so that this extends to the full the planning application in February 2017, assessments had adopted up to 3,520 developable frontage with the railway; residential dwellings as a sensitivity test; Q the key on the Open Space and Landscape Parameter Plan has been updated Q changes have been made to the building heights for each of the areas on the to note that the areas of ‘Strategic Multi-Functional Green Space: Visual Building Heights and Density Parameter Plan. The building height for buildings Buffers’ also include biodiversity features; of up to 2 storeys and up to 3 storeys have been reduced by 1m to 10m and 13m respectively. The maximum building height for buildings up to 4 storeys and up Q the locations of some of the primary sustainable drainage (SuDS) features have to 5 storeys have been reduced by 2m to 15m and 18m respectively; been amended to take account of the amendments to other elements of the Proposed Development. These primary SuDS features are however all retained Q the key on the Building Heights and Density Parameter Plan has been amended within the strategic areas of the Site required for the proposed surface water to state they are ‘up to’ a maximum number of storeys; drainage strategy; Q reduction in maximum building heights on Worting Road (reduced to a Q amendment of proposed green corridors, buffers and strategic green space maximum of up 2 and up to 3 storeys) and the western boundary of the Worting to accommodate the amended principal access junction designs and revised Conservation Area, which has been reduced to up to 3 storeys maximum; alignment of Worting Road; Q reduction in the maximum proposed overall height of buildings around Worting Q change in the design and layout of the primary access junction into the Site Wood Cottage to up to 4 storeys maximum; from the A339. This junction previously comprised improvements to the existing A339 / Roman Road roundabout, closure of the Roman Road arm Q reduction in the maximum proposed height of buildings fronting the Central of the roundabout and construction of a new arm to the roundabout that Neighbourhood park and existing lane to up to 4 storeys maximum; would link to Main Street. The amended junction layout has been designed in Q reduction in the area of higher density development in the vicinity of Church Lane, consultation with HCC Highways to improve the through flow of traffic along with the frontage of this area of development moved further east, away from the the A339. It still proposes closure of the Roman Road arm of the existing Lane; roundabout but introduces a new roundabout on the A339 to the west of the existing, which provides the northern junction with Main Street. The updated Q reduction in the building height for small scale ancillary buildings outside built layout also introduces a new highway layout for the section of the A339 development zones, so that these are limited to up to a maximum of 2 storeys between the two roundabouts; and up to 10m maximum; Q change in the design and layout of the primary access junction into the Site Q an overlap has been introduced between the development areas and the from the B3400 Worting Road; from a single crossroads junction to a layout neighbourhood parks to reflect the fact that the exact outline shape of the park with two junctions: a roundabout and a crossroads. This amended junction will be determined through reserved matters. Development of these overlapping layout includes amendments to the alignment of Worting Road and a new areas will generally relate to the proposed building heights and densities in the section of Main Street and will reduce traffic flows through the southern adjacent development areas; neighbourhood centre; Q changes have been made to the proposed residential density ranges shown on Q change in the design and layout of the northern and southern sections of Main the Building Heights and Density Parameter Plan. These were 15 to 30, 25 to Street through the Site; and 45 and 40 to 60 in the original submission and these have been amended to 15 to 30, 30 to 40, 40 to 60 and up to 60 dwellings per hectare for the mixed-use Q updates to pedestrian and cycle routes between the Site and the wider centres within the revised submission; Basingstoke area. Q a note has been added to the Building Heights and Density Parameter Plan noting that where density ranges are stated with a lower limit (ie. 15-30, 30-40 & 40-60 dph) there is an allowance for some parcels to come forward below (only) A note regarding changes to application material the lower range, where the masterplanning phase ahead of reserved matters demonstrates improved design outcomes; In the light of the changes to the application some of the application material has been revised and other additional material is supplemented by an addendum, in realignment of the residential parcel closest to the A339 to take account of the Q response to requests for further information or clarification. revised junction design and alignment; This is arranged so that where a document has been fully updated and replaces Q realignment of residential parcels to accommodate changes in layout; the original it is identified with an ‘R’ after its reference number e.g. MSD2R. In this Q confirmation that five permanent Gypsy and Traveller pitches will be provided at a case the original document is no longer a relevant consideration in relation to the single location; application. In general throughout these documents the changes are highlighted in blue so that they can be clearly identified. Q reduction in the number of potential secondary school sites, from three to one. The preferred location for the secondary school site has been advised by HCC Where additional material is provided as an addendum that is to be read alongside subsequent to the planning application being submitted; the originally submitted document it is identified with an ‘A’ after its reference number e.g. MSD5A which is to be read alongside MSD5. Q introduction of icons to show the approximate location for the primary school(s) and the secondary school, with their likely size being shown at the same scale in For a full list of application documents please refer to the covering letter dated July the key; 2018. Q amended the annotation of the mixed-use areas on the Land Use Parameter Plan to clarify that these show the approximate location and extent of the mixed-uses, with the exact boundaries to be determined through reserved matters; Q the northern neighbourhood park has been amended so that the main street no longer cuts through the middle of it, and it has been located further from the A339 than in the original planning application. The park measures 3.5 hectares in area; Q it has been clarified in the key to the Open Space and Landscape Parameter Plan that each of the neighbourhood parks will meet the adopted Green Space Standards (July 2013) minimum size requirement of being 2ha; ] Contents
1.0 Introduction 1
2.0 Site Analysis 2
2.1 Location and Context 2
2.2 Planning Context 4
2.2 Open Space Requirements 6
2.3 Leisure and Recreation Provision 8
2.4 The Site 9
3.0 Landscape Strategy 13
3.1 Objectives 13
3.2 Constraints and Opportunities 14
3.3 Landscape Strategy 16
3.4 Open Space Provision 18
3.5 Views 19
3.6 Ecology Mitigation 20
3.7 Landscape Management Objectives 22
4.0 Landscape Vision 23
4.1 Neighbourhood Parks 23
4.2 Green Corridors and Buffers 28
4.3 Biodiversity and Landscape Features 30
4.4 Amenity Green Space 31
4.5 Accessible Natural Green Space (ANGS) 34
4.6 Equipped Play 35
4.7 Outdoor Sports Provision 36
4.8 Allotments 38
4.9 Local Centres and Streets 39
4.10 Public Rights Of Way 41
4.11 Planting Strategy 43
5.0 Country Park 44
5.1 Executive Summary 44
5.2 Background 44
5.2 Case Studies 46
5.3 Vision for the Country Park 52
5.4 Country Park Hub 56
5.5 Management of the Country Park 58
6.0 Summary 59
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 ii ] Revisions
Amendments to the Landscape Strategy have been made to reflect changes to the Proposed Development and to incorporate amendments in response to stakeholder comments received. Significant amendments are listed below. Where new text is provided it is coloured blue. For ease of reading where text has been replaced or is superseded, it is not shown as deleted.
Q 4.6 Equipped Play: amendments to text and Fig 4.32 2.0 Site Analysis Locations and radial catchment distances for play areas
Q 4.7 Outdoor Sports Provision: amendments to descriptive Q 2.3 Leisure and Recreation Provision: Fig 2.3 Diagram text and Fig 4.36 Illustration of the Sports Hub showing area requirements of open space typologies Q 4.8 Allotments: amendments to text and Fig 4.37
Q 4.10 Public Rights of Way: new section added, 3.0 Landscape Strategy subsequent section renumbered
Q 3.3 Landscape Strategy: Fig. 3.3 Landscape Strategy Diagram and Key 5.0 Country Park Q 3.4 Open Space Provision: amendments to quantities in Table 3.1 and within the text Q 5.1 Executive Summary: new section added, subsequent sections re-numbered Q 3.6 Ecological Mitigation: Fig 3.4 Ecology Mitigation Measures Q 5.5 Management of the Country Park: amendments to descriptive text
4.0 Landscape Vision
Q 4.1 Neighbourhood Parks: amendments to location, size and indicative layout of Northern Gateway Neighbourhood Park; Fig. 4.1 Indicative location and catchment radius for Neighbourhood Parks; Fig. 4.4 Illustration of the Northern Gateway Park and descriptive text
Q 4.2 Green Corridors and Buffers: amendments to descriptive text, Fig 4.12 Green Corridors and Buffers and Fig 4.15 Section through Church Lane green link
Q 4.3 Biodiversity and Landscape Features: Fig 4.16 Biodiversity and Landscape Features
Q 4.4 Amenity Green Space: Fig 4.20 Indicative location and catchment radius for Amenity Green Spaces; amendment to description of Roman Road Linear Park
Q 4.5 ANGS: amendments to descriptive text
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy iii ] 1.0 Introduction
This document has been revised and updated to address changes made to the Proposed Development and to incorporate amendments in response to stakeholder comments received. This version of the document replaces that previously submitted with the outline planning application.
The Environment Partnership (TEP) has prepared this In addition to residential uses, the Proposed Development landscape strategy to support the outline planning application would provide associated facilities including land for a for the Proposed Development at Manydown. secondary school site, two primary schools and one or more local centres to support retail opportunities, employment and The Applicant, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council other community infrastructure, together with substantial areas (BDBC) and Hampshire County Council (HCC), is applying for of open space including a Country Park. outline planning permission for primarily residential development on land at Manydown, Basingstoke. This landscape strategy has been prepared to support the current Proposed Development depicted on the parameter Policy S3.10 is the Local Plan Allocation for Manydown which plans (dwgs 5556/OPA/002 - 005) and illustrative masterplan identifies an area for delivery of approximately 3,400 homes. (presented within the Design and Access Statement, doc ref Land in the control of the Applicant forming part of the Local MSD1) and it sets out a vision for the open spaces and green Plan Allocation (‘the Site’) comprises the largest part of the Local infrastructure throughout the Proposed Development. A Plan Allocation. It has been agreed with BDBC that the Site number of processes and documents have informed and will deliver approximately 3,200 homes (up to a maximum of guided the strategy including statutory and public consultation, 3,520 homes), as reflected in the Statement of Common Ground the Statement of Community Involvement (doc ref MSD5), the submitted to the Local Plan EIP. Phasing Plan, Schedule of Development and Delivery Strategy (doc ref MSD6) and the Environmental Statement (doc ref MSD12).
Fig 1.1 Aerial view looking south across the Site, with Winklebury and Roman Road on the left side of the photo
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 1 ] 2.0 Site Analysis
The Hannington Down LCA is ‘characterised by a mix of open 2.1 Location and Context and semi-enclosed farmland, woodland and parkland, unified by the distinct topography created by the high, open clay. The Site covers an area of approximately 321 hectares, of which Well-managed and mature planting is characteristic within the approximately 101 hectares is envisaged to be included as a parklands.’ Country Park. The Site is on the western edge of Basingstoke Oakley/Steventon Down LCA can be considered a transitional and has an approximate centre National Ordnance Survey (OS) landscape, showing elements of both these LCAs and its grid reference of 51.266686N, -1.144946E. The location of the character reflected in the Site is described as ‘rolling chalkland Site is shown on Fig 2.1. with unifying pattern of large woodland blocks, trees and hedgerows creating a mosaic of arable farmland’.
The Site is bounded in part to the north by the A339 Kingsclere The Landscape Assessment provides a summary of key issues Road, which is an important road into and out of Basingstoke identified for each of the LCAs. There are similar themes for from the west and north-west. The eastern boundary of most the three character areas in which the Site lies and include: of the Site is formed by Roman Road, which is a local distributor some localised areas of comparatively weaker structure, road running approximately north to south and marking the weakened hedgerow and a more open landscape; under- existing western edge of Basingstoke. Roman Road joins to management of ancient semi-natural woodlands; and intrusion Roman Way at its southern end and this short link meets the of built development, urban land uses and major roads on the B3400 Worting Road at a roundabout junction. Worting Road landscape. runs approximately east to west and bisects part of the Site, providing access to the west and southwest of the Site including the village of Oakley. The southern edge of the Site is bounded by the mainline Exeter / Weymouth to London railway line, which is partly in cutting and partly on embankment. Fig 2.2 is an aerial photograph of part of the Site, looking west towards Worting Wood Farm.
Landscape Character
The Site lies within National Character Area (NCA) 130 Hampshire Downs. This NCA is characterised by strongly rolling downland with extensive open tracts of large arable fields, sporadically interrupted by woodlands creating an overall open and exposed character.
The Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment (2001) was prepared on behalf of the BDBC by Landscape Design Associates and Wessex Archaeology. The Landscape Assessment was adopted as Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) in July 2001. The Site lies within three separate local Landscape Character Areas (LCAs). The Site is predominately located within Basingstoke Down LCA and a small proportion of the west of the Site lie within Oakley/ Steventon Down LCA and Hannington Down LCA.
The Basingstoke Down LCA is ‘an area of relatively consistent landscape character, the urban form of Basingstoke creating a unifying element within a landscape of varying landform. The major settlement of Basingstoke, and its associated infrastructure, exerts a strong influence on the character of the immediate surrounding landscape, affecting its original rural character.’
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 2 Bramley Kingsclere
Sherfield On Loddon
s iu Sherborne d AONB a St. John R s iu m d k a R 5 m k
5 .
2 Area within the Site identified for use as a Country Park Location of the Site Worting Basingstoke
Oakley
Basingstoke-Oakley Overton Strategic Gap
Fig 2.1 Diagram illustrating the location of the Site, including land for a Country Park, in relation to Basingstoke and it’s nearby towns , villages and the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Fig 2.2 Aerial view looking north across the north east portion of the site towards the A339, with residential properties in Winklebury seen to the east.
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 3 sense of place, sense of tranquillity or remoteness, and the 2.2 Planning Context quiet enjoyment of the landscape from public rights of way. Development proposals will not be accepted unless they maintain the integrity of existing settlements and prevent their Strategic Site within the Local Plan coalescence.
This Site forms part of the allocation of Policy SS3.10 of the Basingstoke and Deane Adopted Local Plan (2011 to 2029) (May Strategic Gap 2016). Paragraph 4.55 states that ‘Manydown will deliver a high Policy EM2 of the Adopted Local Plan identifies a Strategic Gap quality, sustainable new development of approximately 3,400 between Basingstoke and Oakley. This designation is to prevent new homes and that proposals will be designed sensitively to coalescence of built up areas and to maintain the separate respond to the Site’s opportunities and constraints, in particular identity of settlements and the generally open and undeveloped its landscape and biodiversity context, heritage assets, and nature will be protected. A clear gap between settlements helps relationship with existing communities’. maintain a sense of place for both residents of, and visitors Policy SS3.10 includes the following requisites that development to, the settlements on either side of the gaps. When travelling of the Local Plan Allocation will: through a strategic gap (by all modes of transport) a traveller
Q Include appropriate green space/green infrastructure, should have a clear sense of having left the first settlement, including allotments, to meet local needs in line with the having travelled through an undeveloped area and then entered council’s adopted standards, ensuring that all green space is the second settlement. provided on site, and provide links to assist in the delivery of green infrastructure networks within and adjoining the Site; Neighbourhood Plans Q Respond positively to the special characteristics and The Oakley and Deane Neighbourhood Plan 2011 – 2029 was sensitivities of the landscape, including the setting of the ‘made’ full in May 2016. The Plan forms part of the Development North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Plan for the parish and is used to guide planning decisions in and also the setting and form of existing development. Visual Oakley and Deane. The Neighbourhood Plan, at paragraph intrusion into the wider landscape should be limited; 8.2.2 refers to an ‘indicative’ green gap for settlement separation Q The design of outward facing edges of development for Oakley and Newfound, as first envisaged in BDBC and should respect and enhance the adjacent countryside and HCC’s early vision document ‘A Vision for Manydown’ as being opportunities should be taken to provide linkages to the part of the context to the policies it seeks to develop. However, existing landscape framework; as that plan contemplates, and in accordance with established Q Include measures to improve accessibility by non-car law and policy, the Neighbourhood Plan must accord with the transport modes including the provision of internal walking adopted Local Plan which, as set out above, addresses the and cycling routes linked to existing external routes, the green gap through the strategic gap policy EM2. As such the Public Rights of Way network and the Strategic Cycle strategic gap depicted on adopted Local Plan policy maps is the Network, with direct cycle access to the town centre and the one that should be referred to when considering the strategic provision of public transport from the outset; and gap.
Q Make provision for a Country Park, as identified on the The Wootton St Lawrence Neighbourhood Plan is less Policies Map, which is accessible to existing nearby advanced. However, the Designation Area which covers the residential areas. proposed Country Park and part of the Proposed Development area was approved by Basingstoke and Deane Council in The countryside of the borough is one of its key assets; it is February 2014. predominantly rural and agricultural, containing a diverse pattern of landscapes from rolling chalk downland, pastoral river valleys and historic parkland to lowland farmland and Manydown Development Brief farms, villages and hamlets with a few larger settlements including Basingstoke. Policy EM1 of the Adopted Local Plan The adopted Development Brief for the Site is a Supplementary includes that development will be permitted only where it can Planning Document which requires the development to create be demonstrated, through an appropriate assessment, that an interconnected network of natural areas and other green the proposals are sympathetic to the character and visual open spaces that link into the wider green infrastructure quality of the area concerned. Development proposals must network. The Development Brief states that these areas should respect, enhance and not be detrimental to the character or retain and integrate the existing landscape features (trees/ visual amenity of the landscape likely to be affected. The policy hedges/woods and copses) as a framework for development. also sets out that development proposals must respect the
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 4 The spaces in the network must be multifunctional and should There are six scheduled monuments within 1 kilometre of include landscaping and movement corridors, ecological the Site; a bronze age barrow located between the Site and features and buffers, amenity spaces for residents and a Oakley to the southwest, crop marks at Battledown, a hill Country Park. fort in Winklebury, a cemetery near South Ham and two monuments to the north of the A339. In addition to these off-site This is established through the following development principals monuments, Wootton St Lawrence is considered to be an Area within the Development Brief: of High Archaeological Potential. Principal 4a: Landscape and Green Infrastructure Strategy There are no Listed Buildings within the Site but there are a Principal 4b: Responding to the wider landscape number close by, most notably in clusters around Worting Principal 4c: Landscape corridors Church, Worting House and Wootton St Lawrence. The Listed Buildings around Worting lie within the Worting Conservation Principal 4d: Ecological enhancement Area, which abuts the Site. There are other listed buildings Principle 4e: Ecological buffers to tree belts, woodlands and along Worting Road to the west of the Site. This landscape hedgerows strategy takes these assets, and their setting, into account.
Principal 4f: Provision of green space for residential amenity
Principal 4g: Provision of the Country Park. Ancient Woodland Two areas of ancient woodland lie within the Site boundary, Wootton Copse and Worting Wood shown on fig 2.5. These are Surrounding Landscape Designations and Ancient both ancient and semi-natural deciduous woodlands and are Woodland 11 hectares and 10.5 hectares respectively. Further information There are no national or international landscape designations is provided in the Arboriculture Implications Assessment within the Site. There are however a number of designations (Appendix 9.3 within the Environmental Statement, doc ref relevant to the setting of the Site, including scheduled MSD12). monuments, listed buildings and a conservation area. These are described below. Area with Restrictive Covenant (i.e. Country Park)
North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty One hundred hectares of the Site, to the south of the village of Wootton St Lawrence, is protected from development and has To the north west and west of the Site lies a nationally been identified as a future Country Park. This area currently designated landscape, the North Wessex Downs Area of contains a range of habitats including woodland, hedgerows, Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) see fig 2.1. The AONB grassland and arable field margins and will provide a significant covers an area of 1,730 sq km and includes elevated chalk new facility for Basingstoke and the borough as a whole. The downs and grassland which, in addition to its landscape area is well located for the western edge of the town and new value, also includes sites important for nature conservation green links to it would be provided through the Site. The land is and cultural heritage. The closest boundary of the AONB is currently under agricultural tenancy and is predominantly arable approximately 700 metres from the northern edge of the Site. farmland.
The North Wessex Downs Management Plan (2014-2019) Local Plan Policy EM5 - Green Infrastructure, identifies that includes key issues, objectives and policies for the AONB. With currently there is no Country Park within the borough. The specific regard to landscape, key issues identified include; proposed Country Park is identified in policy SS3.10 and Q Conserving and enhancing the remoteness and expansive defined on the Policies Map. It will be a multi-functional green open scale of the downland landscape; and space for informal recreation, play, nature conservation, education and land management, with ancillary uses including Q Conserving the character and quality of its landscape. visitor parking and facilities. Connections to surrounding areas, using existing public rights of way and new links via the Historic Environment Proposed Development, and connections to the adjoining open countryside, will ensure safe and convenient accessibility on The relationship between landscape and the historic foot and by bicycle. environment is close. The history of the landscape, its historic character, the interaction between people and places through time, and the surviving features and their settings are relevant to landscape assessment and design. This landscape strategy takes into consideration historic buildings and features and archaeological remains.
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 5 Minimum sizes 2.2 Open Space Requirements Q MFGS - 0.2 ha with no dimension less than 15m
Q ANGS - no minimum size is specified Summary of Basingstoke and Deane’s Adopted Green Q Neighbourhood parks - 2 ha Space Standards (July 2013) Q Strategic equipped play areas including provision for The following standards are set out in Appendix 4 of the teenagers - 1250 sq m adopted Local Plan. Q Neighbourhood equipped play areas including. provision for teenagers - 750 sq m Multi-functional Green Space (MFGS) – Quantity Standard Q Local equipped play areas - 300 sq m The Council expects the following quantity standard for MFGS Q Allotments - 10 plots (1375 sq m) minimum 5 rods which is made up of: - Amenity Green Space (including informal play space and kick-about) Outdoor Sports Facilities
- Accessible Natural Green Space (ANGS) Q 1.0ha per 1,000 persons including the provision of pavilion / - Parks changing rooms. - Green corridors and buffers
- Important biodiversity sites and landscape features Open Space Guidance from the ‘Green Infrastructure Q 65 sq m per person (in/adjacent to Basingstoke) Strategy for Basingstoke and Deane (2013 - 2029) July 2013’ Q 32 sq m per person (rural)
However, the standards do not specifically quantify the various The Green Infrastructure Strategy defines what is meant by the components of MFGS or indeed state whether each type is various types of open space. specifically required for every development.
Amenity Green Space Minimum Quantity Standard This is green space suitable for team games and robust play Q Multi-functional Green Space (MFGS) 20 sq m per person (all including level areas of mown grass with a minimum rectangular areas) area 1600 sq m plus a buffer of 10m to housing, tree planting Q Equipped play areas 0.5 sq m per person (all areas) and shrub planting.
Q Allotment 3.4 sq m per person (all areas) Parks
Maximum Distance Thresholds Green spaces that have well defined boundaries and a strong sense of place and design. They contain a range of facilities Q Amenity Green Space 5 minutes (300m walking) which cater for a wide range of users including young children, Q Accessible Natural Green Space (ANGS) 10 minutes (600m teenagers, families, office workers and the elderly. Typical walking, 1500m cycling) elements can include some or all of the following:
Q Neighbourhood Parks 15 minutes (900m walking, 2250m Q open grassed areas, cycling, 5625m car) Q tree and shrub planting, Q Equipped play areas 10 minutes (600m walking) to nearest Q play and informal sports facilities, facility Q sitting areas, Q Allotment 10 minutes (600m walking, 1500m cycling, 3750m by car) Q space for events,
Q wildlife areas.
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 6 Accessible Natural Green Space (ANGS) Allotments
Green space which is designed and/or managed to encourage These are suitable sites for growing fruit and vegetables biodiversity but is freely accessible to people and where a feeling with facilities to meet the needs of allotment holders of naturalness is allowed to predominate. Types of ANGS include: including appropriate perimeter fencing and gates to prevent unauthorised access, water supply, waste storage and access Q Woodlands for pedestrians and vehicles. Q Grasslands (managed for floristic diversity)
Q Waterways, water bodies and wetlands.
Q Heathland Summary of Open Space Requirements
Wildlife areas and landscape features, green corridors and Table 2.1 below provides a summary of the different types, sizes buffers and catchments for open space, in accordance with BDBC’s These are areas whose primary purpose is for wildlife protection/ Green Space Standards 2013, the Green Infrastructure Strategy enhancement and /or the protection of important landscape and Policy EM5 of the adopted Local Plan. features but where public access for informal recreation can be Being a strategic allocation site, the maximum quantity accommodated. standards for open space have been deemed to apply to Manydown. Equipped Play
These are outdoor sites with equipment and facilities aimed specifically at children and young people and where play is the predominant use of the site:
Q Local Play Area (LEAP) provides for children aged 0 – 10
Q Neighbourhood (NEAP) and Strategic Play Areas provide for children and young people aged 0– 18
Type Quantity Comprising of; Maximum walking Minimum size Standard distance
Multi Functional Green Space 65 sq m/ Neighbourhood Parks 900m 2 ha (MFGS) person Green Corridors and Buffers N/A N/A Biodiversity/ Landscape Features N/A N/A Amenity Green Space 300m no dimension less than 15m Accessible Natural Green Space 600m N/A Equipped Play 0.5 sq m/ Local Equipped Area for Play 600m 300 sq m person Neighbourhood Equipped Area for 600m 750 sq m Play Outdoor Sports Provision 10 sq m/ outdoor pitches and changing No guidance No guidance person facilities Allotments 3.4 sq m/ secure fencing and water supply 600m 10 plots approx person 1,375 sq/m
Table 2.1 BDBC policy requirements for open space
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 7 2.3 Leisure and Recreation Provision
Basingstoke and Deane’s ‘Leisure and Recreation Needs Assessment’ 2008 (and subsequent updates) includes a comprehensive assessment of the quantity, quality and accessibility of the borough’s open spaces and a review of current and future trends in sporting activities. It has been used as a basis for developing locally-derived standards for new provision, in accordance with guidance at a national level. The report highlights;
Q A trend for an increasing demand for allotments and a deficiency in the quantity and access to existing allotments. Also raising a need for improvements relating to safety, security and signage.
Q A trend for sports pitches to transfer from grass to artificial surfaces, due to the development of new surfaces suitable for football and some rugby training, coupled with the waterlogging of many grass pitches as a result of climate change.
Q With a specific objective to move as much football as possible onto artificial turf pitches (ATP) by developing high quality ATPs and related ancillary accommodation on suitable sites and making them available at affordable cost.
Existing allotment provision, sport facilities and leisure facilities within proximity to the Site have been considered and discussions have been held with relevant officers at BDBC throughout the consultation process. Further information regarding the provision of outdoor sports pitches and allotments at the Proposed Development is presented within section four of this document.
Fig 2.3 Diagram showing the area requirements for various open space typologies in proportion to the overall Site area
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 8 2.4 The Site
The Site is characterised by undulating topography with open There are six Public Rights of Way (PRoW) which interact with agricultural fields separated by hedgerows and tracks. Field the Site: boundaries also include mature tree belts enclosing small and 1. 258/27/1 - 2: a footpath which transverses part of the Site adjoining areas of broadleaved woodland to create a larger on a broadly north-south alignment and passes through perceived wooded horizon softening and containing the Site. Worting Wood. It is flanked by tall hedgerow and mature The enclosed field pattern within the Site contrasts with wider trees and links Worting with the Wootton St Lawrence lane. areas of rural land extending to the north, south and west. 2. 258/26a/1: a footpath which runs east-west through arable Worting Wood Farm is located in the northern portion of the fields between Worting Wood and the village of Wootton St Site in proximity to Worting Wood. There are two properties in Lawrence. private ownership adjacent to Worting Wood Farm and these are outside the Site boundary. 3. 258/39/1 - 2: a footpath which links Roman Road and the The Site surrounds the existing hamlet of Worting, which is Wootton St Lawrence lane and which utilises a vehicular focused around Worting House, but which lies outside the access track to Worting Farm and two private residential Site boundary. Land to the east of the Site is predominantly properties. residential, including the areas of Winklebury and Buckskin. 4. 013/22/1: a footpath which follows the northern edge of Winklebury includes a local centre off Winklebury Way as well as Worting Conservation Area and is bordered by mature trees health services, two primary schools and a secondary school. and a tall hedgerow. Buckskin is predominantly residential but has a local centre on Blackdown Close including a community centre, dental practice 5. 258/26b/2: a footpath which runs along a field edge and the and chemist. The residential area of Rookesdown lies to the southern edge of Worting Wood. north east of the Site, beyond the A339. The hamlet of Wootton 6. 177/719/1: a footpath which runs along a field edge on a St Lawrence is located to the north west of the Site adjacent to north south alignment between Pack Lane and Worting the area allocated for the Country Park. Road.
Fig 2.4 View across the Site with Worting Wood in the background. PRoW 258/26b/2 runs along the field edge to the south of the wood.
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 9 Topography Further information on Ecology is provided in the Ecology chapter of the Environmental Statement (Chapter 9 and Topography varies across the Site but broadly forms a shallow appendices, doc ref MSD12). valley following Pack Lane west to east through the centre of the area, rising to the north and south. There are two natural ridges, one at the northern eastern part of the Site and the other Arboriculture at the southern edge of the Site. Between these ridges the Site broadly slopes down to a flat valley area around the location of The majority of trees are present in the northern half of the Site. the railway line. The railway forms the southern boundary of the Intensive agricultural use of the land has limited the presence Site, running from south-west to north-east. of trees within field boundary hedgerows, roadside verges and fragmented woodland copses. The population is dominated Elevations range between approximately 135 m Above by British native or naturalised species, with sycamore and Ordnance Datum (AOD) in the vicinity of Worting Wood to lower pedunculate oak prospering despite the annual cultivation elevations of approximately 105 m AOD adjacent to Roman Way of their supporting soils. Tree age and condition varies and 100 m AOD to the south boundary with the railway. considerably but a low number of young trees within hedgerows There are no permanent ponds, lakes or running watercourses and at field margins can be attributed to the mechanical within the Site. There are a number of seasonally filled vegetation management used in modern agriculture. watercourses within the Site (known as winterbournes). The two ancient woodlands cover a combined area of 21 ha. Worting Wood and Wootton Copse comprise a climax canopy Ecology of pedunculate oak over a dense hazel and ash coppice understory. Smaller spruce and fir plantations are located The key habitats on the Site are woodland, hedgerow, and within Worting Wood. These woodlands are connected to the arable field margins. In particular the Site is noted for its broadleaved woodland of Marvel Row Copse located to the important arable flora. west of the Site by a belt of new woodland planting. There are no nationally or internationally designated nature conservation sites within the Site. The Site is approximately 5.8km east of the River Test SSSI and approximately 6km south of the Pamber Forest and Silchester Common SSSI, but is located within the SSSI Impact Risk Zones for both sites. Application Site Boundary Two areas of semi-natural ancient woodland within the Site, Country Park Boundary Wootton Copse and Worting Wood and a third woodland Marvel Public Rights of Way Row Copse, are locally designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). The location of these woodlands is Existing Routes shown on fig 2.5. Railway Line There are approximately 780 SINCs within the borough Overhead Power-line and 28 of these are within 2km of the Site. Two of these Existing active oil pipeline are immediately adjacent to the Site; a grassland SINC on the eastern edge of the Worting Conservation Area and a woodland SINC between the Site and Oakley. These sites are Existing Woodland designated to help identify their importance and targets for their management and maintenance by landowners. Whilst SINC Ancient Woodland status does not provide statutory control over the use of a site, it is a material planning consideration.
Species interest within the Site is varied and includes both Recently planted Jubilee Woodland flora and fauna. Important arable flora and farmland birds are associated with the arable land and hedgerows. Dormice, bats Arable land (including barbastelle), badgers, woodland birds and woodland flora (including bluebell) are supported by the woodland and Existing Hedgerows hedgerow network. Reptiles, invertebrates and birds of prey such as barn owl and red kite utilise a range of habitats within the Site. Key for fig 2.5 Site analysis diagram
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 10 North Wessex Downs AONB
A339
Wootton St Lawrence
Worting Wood
Wootton Copse
Roman Road
Winklebury Way
Marvel Row Copse
To Basingstoke Town Centre
Worting Road to Oakley Mother’s Copse
Pack Lane
Fig 2.5 Site analysis diagram
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 11 Fig 2.6 View along western edge of the Site Fig 2.7 View east along Worting Road
Fig 2.8 View along PRoW leading north from Church Lane Fig 2.9 View along Roman Road, south of Winklebury Way
Fig 2.10 Aerial view over Mother’s Copse
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 12 ] 3.0 Landscape Strategy
3.1 Objectives
The primary landscape objective of the Proposed Development is to retain and accentuate green features within the Site, to provide a high quality living environment with a range of diverse habitats and wildlife corridors.
The Proposed Development will create a strong relationship between the urban form and the surrounding open countryside.
Existing landscape features like mature woodland and hedgerows will, wherever possible, be used to create attractive living environments by incorporating and framing development. Other assets, such as the Country Park, will provide access to natural green space, with opportunities for informal play, recreation and learning.
The Proposed Development will provide a range of high quality open spaces for a variety of uses throughout the Site so that all residents are within walking distance of high quality, multi- functional, green open space. Amenity spaces will include parks, local and neighbourhood equipped areas for play (LEAPs and NEAPs), native trees and hedges, ornamental planting and boulevards; all complemented by the new and accessible Country Park.
The green infrastructure within the Site will further provide an ecological network of retained and additional habitats for a range of flora and fauna to maximise biodiversity gain.
The key objectives of the landscape strategy are to;
Q Provide a landscape with a strong sense of place, relevant to Basingstoke whilst being entwined with the surrounding Hampshire countryside;
Q Retain existing landscape features wherever possible;
Q Create parks and public gardens, with lawns and planting, for socialising, play and relaxation;
Q Provide leafy and safe pedestrian priority streets, suitable for ‘door step’ play and with natural surveillance;
Q Give people a connection with the landscape and provide the opportunity to grow their own produce;
Q Create a landscape which enhances and compliments the architecture and which creates a desirable setting for the new homes; and
Q Provide good connections to open countryside and to the wider network of public open spaces and footpaths that Basingstoke has to offer.
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 13 Existing natural features have shaped this strategy, such that 3.2 Constraints and Opportunities hedgerows and trees will be retained where possible, except where access points into the Site are required or where the Through analysis of the existing site conditions and context, Main Street would need to cross a small number of hedgerows. constraints and opportunities have been identified. These have Buffers to valuable features are accommodated within this informed the landscape strategy, and include, but are not limited strategy to prevent unnecessary adverse effects on habitats. All too, the following: PRoW will be accommodated within a green corridor through
Q Mature woodland, including Ancient Woodland the development to ensure they retain a largely natural setting. An offset between the proposed development edge and the Q Recently planted woodland edge of the Worting conservation area, incorporating dense tree Q Hedgerows and hedgerow trees planting, has been taken into account to reduce visual intrusion and to minimise adverse effects on the setting of this heritage Q Public Rights of Way asset. Restrictions on the height of buildings and the proportion Q Sensitive views into and out of the Site of taller buildings in those areas which are most visible from surrounding areas has influenced this strategy, especially in Q Long range views from the AONB relation to views from the AONB and from within the strategic Q Worting Wood Farm and other adjoining residential gap. properties
Q Worting Conservation Area and other heritage assets. Site Boundary Country Park Boundary Public Right of Way Existing Routes Railway Line
Existing active oil pipeline
Existing Mature Woodland
Ancient Woodland
Recently Planted Jubilee Woodland
Existing hedgerows
Potential for landscape buffers, to help protect important habitats and screen sensitive views
Potential green links
Potential viewpoints
Short range views into the Site
Areas of site potentially sensitive to views from AONB
Fig 3.1 View across the Site showing existing trees and hedgerow along the Key for fig 3.2 Constraints and opportunities diagram PRoW which connects Church Lane with Worting Wood
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 14 North Wessex Downs AONB
A339
Wootton St Lawrence
Roman Road
Winklebury Way
To Basingstoke Town Centre
Worting Road to Oakley
Pack Lane
Fig 3.2 Constraints and opportunities diagram
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 15 3.3 Landscape Strategy Multifunctional Green Space
The landscape strategy for the Site creates an interconnected Neighbourhood Parks network of natural areas and other green open spaces that link into the wider green infrastructure network. The overarching strategy is to retain and integrate the existing landscape features Green Corridors and Buffers (trees/hedges/woods and copses) wherever possible, as a framework for development. Biodiversity and Landscape Features Green open space will be multi-functional where possible (and appropriate) and will include landscape and movement Amenity Green Space corridors, ecological features and buffers, amenity spaces for residents and the Country Park. Accessible Natural Green Space (ANGS) The benefits of this interconnected green infrastructure include:
Q Enhancing the appearance of the Site and helping to create a Equipped Play Area place with a strong sense of identity;
Q Mitigating views of the development, from particularly Outdoor Sports Provision sensitive locations, such as the AONB and strategic gap;
Q Amenity spaces that support the health and quality of life for Allotments all residents;
Q Ecological movement corridors within the Site and linking to Visual Screening the wider area;
Q Protecting existing landscape features including ancient Development Area woodland, veteran trees and hedgerows;
Q Protecting archaeology, and protecting or enhancing the setting of heritage assets; Main Proposed Routes
Q A planting strategy which ensures that the Proposed Country Park Boundary Development sits sensitively within the wider landscape;
Q Safe and convenient movement for residents by non-car Ancient Woodland modes of transport to key destinations within and beyond the Site; and Jubilee Woodland Planting Q Providing sustainable flood mitigation measures.
The strategy is described in detail on the following pages and is Existing Mature Woodland illustrated on the adjacent plan. Proposed Woodland within Country Park
Proposed Open Space within Country Park
Public Right of Way Pedestrian and Cycle Access Points to Country Park
Vehicular Access Points to Country Park
Country Park Hub
Key for fig 3.3 Landscape Strategy diagram
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 16 North Wessex Downs AONB
A339
Wootton St Lawrence
Roman Road
Winklebury Way
To Basingstoke Town Centre
Worting Road to Oakley
Pack Lane
Fig 3.3 Landscape Strategy diagram
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 17 space, and the breakdown below will form the basis for the 3.4 Open Space Provision future Masterplan. Open Space will be delivered in accordance with Local Plan Table 3.1 below sets out the different types and quantities of Policy EM5 such that green infrastructure will be provided open space that would be required to meet the needs of the and phased to support the requirements of the proposed future residents at Manydown in accordance with BDBC’s development. Green Space Standards 2013, the Green Infrastructure Strategy and Policy EM5 of the adopted Local Plan. All areas of MFGS will be linked by safe pedestrian and cycling routes and green corridors to encourage sustainable access The quantity of open space is based on a population of 8,448 and support wildlife movement as part of a network of green for the maximum of 3,520 homes, with an average household infrastructure. of 2.4 people (in accordance with BDBC’s Section 106 Planning Obligations and Community Infrastructure’ Interim Planning The overall provision of open space would be in the order of Guidance). 66.18 ha. This includes strategic and local MFGS, equipped areas for play, outdoor sports and allotments. Additionally, there On-site Multi Functional Green Space (MFGS) includes all will be an indoor sports hall and 3G artificial pitch provided. MFGS types, as described in the Green Space Standards 2013. MFGS has been carefully considered and distributed so that As set out in Table 3.1 below, 55.26 ha of MFGS is provided almost all dwellings are within the maximum distance thresholds comprising 30.86 ha of strategic open space (Neighbourhood contained therein. Those dwellings that are not within the Parks (9.8 ha), Green Corridors and Buffers (7.79 ha), and maximum distance thresholds have access to a similar open Biodiversity and Landscape Features (13.27 ha); and 24.4 ha of space type which could provide an equivalent experience. local open space (Amenity Green Space, including kickabout, and ANGS). It is proposed that further detail on the location and quantity of all open space will be agreed during detailed masterplanning In addition, 0.42ha of equipped play is provided, 7.7 ha of and design coding, prior to the submission of Reserved Matters outdoor sports, 2.8 ha of allotments and 101Ha Country Park. applications. At this stage the proposal looks at strategic open Further detail of the proposed open space provision is given in Chapter 4 of this document.
Type Quantity Requirement Comprising of Maximum Minimum size Quantity Standard based on 8,448 walking proposed for the population distance site Multi Functional 65 sq m/ 54.91 ha Neighbourhood Parks 900m 2 ha 55.26 ha Green Space person Green Corridors and N/A N/A (MFGS) Buffers Biodiversity/ Landscape N/A N/A Features Amenity Green Space 300m no dimension less than 15m ANGS 600m Not specified Equipped Play 0.5 sq m/ 0.42 ha Local Equipped Area for 600m 300sqm 0.42 ha person Play Neighbourhood Area for 600m 750sqm Play Outdoor Sports 10 sq m/ 8.4 ha grass pitches, all weather No No guidance 7.7 ha plus a 3G Provision person courts and changing guidance artificial pitch facilities Allotments 3.4 sq m/ 2.8 ha perimeter fencing, water 600m 10 plots approx 2.8 ha person supply and composting 1375sq/m facilities
Table 3.1 Comparison between open space requirements and proposed open space within the Site
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 18 2. Proposed dwellings at the edges of the Proposed 3.5 Views Development would be no greater than 10m high (eg 2 storeys), in keeping with the existing, adjacent scale and There are occasional high points across the Site, which provide height of development and minimising visual intrusion. a number of excellent wide ranging views and which have been a consideration in the evolution of the Proposed Development 3. There is a restriction on building heights in areas likely to depicted on the parameter plans and illustrative masterplan; be seen from the north to minimise visual effects on the ensuring that properties can take advantage of these views , North Wessex Downs AONB and its setting. Max 10m with housing frontages orientated accordingly. high buildings are proposed in the north east portion of the Site in proximity to the Country Park, and in the central part There are also a number of views from sensitive areas in the of the Site, immediately to the south of the existing young surrounding landscape that look towards the Site. In these plantation (Jubilee Woodland). Over time this will mature, areas care has been taken to ensure that the visual impact of the creating a continuous visual screen and a strong connected new development is kept to a minimum. The relationship with woodland with Worting Wood and Wootton Copse. the immediate surroundings is crucial, ensuring that existing dwellings are not overlooked by the Proposed Development. 4. Land on the western edge of the Site, adjacent to the Important views are: Strategic Gap, would comprise lower-density and lower height buildings, no greater than 10m high (eg 2 storeys), 1. Southerly open views from within the Site, across beyond a min 20m wide landscape buffer. Basingstoke and to the green fields and rising hills beyond. 5. Buildings along Roman Road would be no greater than 10m 2. Easterly open views towards Winklebury and beyond. high (eg 2 storeys ), seen beyond a 30m wide landscape buffer in views from the east. 3. North westerly views from Roman Road into the development area and the proposed Country Park. 6. There is a development offset to the north of the Worting conservation area providing a landscape setting to this 4. Views from Wootton St Lawrence into the proposed heritage asset. The landscape setting would supplement the Country Park existing tree screen along the Site boundary together with a 5. Southerly views into the Site from the AONB. proposed pastoral edge to the development with grassland, meadow flowers and footpath access. In addition, buildings 6. Views of the western portion of the Site from Newfound and on the edge of the development in this location would be the eastern edge of Oakley. limited to a max 10m high, thereby minimising views of the 7. Views to the north towards the southern edge of the Site development from within the conservation area. beyond the railway line, from Dorset Crescent, Kempshott 7. A wide green corridor along the B3400 Worting Road is 8. Elevated view from Kenilworth Road and from its junction proposed at the western extent of the Site, which includes with Roman Road, towards Worting Wood, Worting Wood an area of new woodland planting to the south of the road. Farm and the north eastern portion of the Site. Furthermore, outdoor sports provision is proposed to the south of the B3400 and east of the new woodland. The The findings of the Visual Impact Assessment, set out in provision of open space and avoidance of built form in this Chapter 12 of the Environmental Statement (doc ref MSD12) and part of the Site will create a gradual transition between within the ES Addendum, have fed into the design development Basingstoke and open countryside. process and will continue to inform the detailed design. They have played an important role in developing the Open Space 8. Linear strips of land, discontinuous with the Site, will be and Landscape Parameter Plan (5556/OPA/004/P) and this planted with hedgerows and/or trees to meet specific strategy. ecological considerations and to provide visual screening in Primary Mitigation Measures views towards the Site from the west and south west. These areas are described in more detail in Section 3.7 and in the The following primary mitigation measures are proposed to Ecology Chapter 9 of the Environmental Statement (doc ref eliminate or reduce adverse visual effects. MSD12) and within the ES Addendum.
1. Existing mature trees and hedgerows on the Site would 9. There would be no lighting installed within the proposed largely be retained and incorporated into proposed green Country Park with the possible exception of at the Country infrastructure across the Site, (including landscape and Park hub. Lighting may be required within some of the larger visual buffers, green corridors and gardens), minimising the open spaces for safety reasons but this would be designed visual and landscape effects of the Proposed Development. to minimise glare and light pollution.
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 19 Level 3 includes more formal amenity and activity areas, 3.6 Ecology Mitigation where the use of the space inherently results in more limited opportunities for biodiversity. Wildlife friendly species will be The potential impact of the Proposed Development on included in planting mixes in and around these spaces and biodiversity has been an important consideration in developing innovative and visually interesting features appropriate to the the landscape strategy. setting of the space will be introduced to create high value The findings of the Ecology Assessment set out in Chapter 9 of stepping stones for wildlife. Biodiversity features within Level the ES, have fed into the design development process and will 3 will soften formalised open spaces and create a sense of continue to inform the detailed design of the landscape. The integration with the more naturalistic spaces created by Level 2 assessment findings have guided the ecological mitigation measures. Biodiversity features throughout levels 2 and 3 will strategy which is illustrated on the adjacent plan, Fig 3.4 and provide access to nature and contribute to a sustainable lifestyle which are presented more fully in the ES (Figure 9.2, doc ref for new residents. MSD12).
The ecological mitigation strategy is proposed in three Levels as follows. Proposed Development Level 1 includes landscape features of high importance for the maintenance of species and landscape connectivity. These Development Platform (including Country Park Visitor Hub) features will make use of retained habitats to the fullest extent possible and will include new planting to deliver naturalistic and Primary Mitigation ((( functional ecological habitats which frame the development ((( Existing Feature Retained and provide key linkages from within to the wider countryside. Strategic Corridor (SINC Buffer & Habitat Public access in these Level 1 areas will be low and limited in Creation) order to protect the ecological function. Only native species Strategic Corridor (Habitat Creation) of locally appropriate origin will be used in planting mixes and artificial features such as metalled surfaces and lighting will be Wildlife Corridor (Habitat Creation) avoided. Level 1 mitigation aims to deliver an uninterrupted Feature Buffer (Habitat Creation) landscape through which wildlife can move and within which flora and fauna will find an undisturbed safe haven year round. Habitat Enhancement (Grassland)
Level 2 measures include landscape features of high biodiversity Habitat Enhancement (Wood Pasture/Parkland) value which provide both natural transition and a degree of Arable Flora Nursery Site segregation from the Level 1 features to the more intensely used amenity and activity spaces. These Level 2 areas aim Farmland Wildlife Site to utilise native species of locally appropriate origin. A range 'Level 1' Integrated Biodiversity Measures of trees, shrubs, climbers, herbaceous plants and species rich grasslands will be introduced to maximise species and 'Level 2' Integrated Biodiversity Measures structural diversity and provide a rich visual setting for local 'Level 3' Integrated Biodiversity Measures residents. Access throughout the Level 2 features will be largely informal and sensitive to the various microhabitats and habitat Key for fig 3.4 Ecology Mitigation Measures mosaics that the new landscape will offer. These level 2 features will compliment, strengthen, diversify and buffer the Level 1 features and provide a diverse environment in which people and wildlife are naturally integrated.
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 20 ((((((( ((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( ((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((( (((( (((((((((((((((((((((( (((( (((((((((((((( (((( ((((((((((((((((((((((( (((( ((((((((( ((((((( (((( ((((((((( ((((((( (((( ((((((((( ((((((( ( (((((( ((((((((((((((((((( ((((((( ( (((((( (((((((((((((( (((((( (((((((((((((( (((((( (((((((((((((( (((((( (((((((((((((( (((((( (((((((((((((( (((((( (((((((((( (((((( (((((((((( ((( (((((((((( (((((((((( (((((((((( (((((((((((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((( (((((((((((((( (((((((((((((( ((((((((((((((
((((((( ((((((( (((((((
(((((((( (((((((( (((((((( (((((((( (((((((( (((((((( ((((((((
((((((((((((((( ((((((((((((((( ((((((((((((((( ((((((((((((((( ((((((((((((((( ((((((((((((((( (((((((((((((((
Metres 0100 200 400 600 800 1,000
Fig 3.4 Ecology Mitigation Measures
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 21 3.7 Landscape Management Objectives
This section sets out the aims and objectives that should be met by future landscape management plans for all MFGS, equipped play areas and outdoor sports provision.
Aim 1: A healthy, safe and secure Site:
Q Maintain and facilitate public access and recreation, promoting healthier lifestyles;
Q Provide a positive connection between existing neighbourhoods and surrounding public open spaces;
Q Provide a high quality, well maintained and attractive landscape setting for the Proposed Development and local community;
Q Establish and maintain health and safety procedures for the management and maintenance of the Site complying with all statutory legislation and best practice; and
Q Provide an attractive environment for people to walk through and enjoy.
Aim 2: Conserve and enhance the ecological and landscape value of the Site:
Q Safeguard and enhance the biological and physical integrity of the Site;
Q Maintain and enhance the connectivity of habitats both within the Site and to adjacent areas;
Q Minimise adverse effects on ecologically sensitive areas by controlling public access; and
Q Enhance public awareness and appreciation of the Site’s wildlife value.
Aim 3: A sustainable Site:
Q Maximise the sustainability of Site operations by minimising waste;
Q Promote an ecological based approach to landscape management where possible, by minimising the use of herbicide and where possible using mechanical methods of management in favour of machinery; and
Q Maintain a flexible landscape management approach which responds to landscape changes and user requirements; and adopt a transparent management approach.
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 22 ] 4.0 Landscape Vision
This section builds upon the principles set out in Section 3.0, Those dwellings that are not within the maximum distance providing further information in relation to the different types thresholds have access to other, similar open space types of MFGS and other open spaces. Diagrams show indicative including amenity green space, a LEAP and the Country Park locations across the Proposed Development and sketch which could provide an equivalent experience. These are designs have been prepared for the more significant open described in more detail in section 4.4. spaces to help illustrate their potential. In formulating the proposals the views of local people have been taken on board, received through the Community Design Events and other consultation feedback. Further detail on consultation feedback is given in the Statement of Community Involvement (doc ref MSD5).
4.1 Neighbourhood Parks
Neighbourhood Parks are strategic open spaces providing significant areas of green space for recreation and leisure. They will be readily accessible to new residents and to the existing neighbouring communities and they will provide a safe and attractive environment for social activities, play and interaction.
SUDS would be included in some Neighbourhood Parks, ensuring that they do not compromise the delivery of the other functions and facilities contained within the park and on the premise that they would be designed to be safe and in keeping with the character of the park.
The adjacent diagram identifies the indicative locations of the Neighbourhood Parks and the proposed features of each park are described in more detail on the following pages. The provision and locations are in accordance with policy requirements, in that they each has a minimum size of 2ha with a catchment of 900m as set out below;
Q Northern Gateway Neighbourhood Park 3.5 ha
Q Central Neighbourhood Park 3.9 ha
Q Southern Neighbourhood Park 2.4 ha Fig 4.1 Indicative location and catchment radius for Neighbourhood Parks
Fig 4.2 Larger park spaces Fig 4.3 Areas for informal recreation
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 23 Meadow grasslands could be included to reflect the Northern Gateway Neighbourhood Park surrounding landscape character as well as being valuable to A new Neighbourhood Park will create a welcoming arrival invertebrates and birds. These florally diverse grasslands could experience, as well as a green and leafy setting for the new provide a feeling of naturalness and could be visually interesting. homes. The details of the layout and planting specifications Green links would provide connections between the park and will be determined as a result of reserved matters applications, the Country Park to the west. The wood pasture proposed however the following description and diagram gives an within the north eastern portion of the Country Park could illustration of how this park could be laid out. extend along these green links into the development to provide New woodland planting could define the northern end of this visual continuity with the Country Park. park providing some buffering from the A339. This planting Pedestrian and cycle routes run along the Main Street, and could soften views of the Proposed Development to and from connect through the park and along the green links into the the north. Country Park and to the allotments. A strong line of avenue trees could form a grand arrival into the site, giving definition to the park and separation from the Main Street. The park lies entirely to the west of the Main Street with Vehicle and pedestrian safe pedestrian crossing points for residents living to the east. access to allotments
As one of the three neighbourhood parks across the Woodland buffer development, it would provide open space for informal planting to the A339 recreation and kickabout as well as a local equipped area for road junctions children's play. There would be plenty of space for relaxing and socialising in an attractive and safe environment.
To the Country Park low landforms
Main Street Meadow trails Woodland pasture extending from Country Park
Avenue tree planting Play
Informal recreation area
formal gardens and seating
Fig 4.4 Illustration of the Northern Gateway Park
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 24 Foot and cycle links will run through the park, connecting Central Neighbourhood Park to the Linear Park, the green link to the Country Park and to This new Neighbourhood Park is located close to the Winklebury Way. intersection of Roman Road and Winklebury Way. It is readily Where possible existing vegetation will be retained along accessible from all surrounding residential areas and forms an Roman Road and alongside the existing PRoW to Worting extension of the Linear Park along the eastern edge of the Site. Farm. In addition significant new tree planting will create a The Linear park is described in section 4.4. The core area of leafy setting to the park and provide seasonal interest. the Central Neighbourhood Park is 2.4ha with a secondary area of 1.5ha to the south of Winklebury Way; well located to provide a place of fun and relaxation for children after school.
Its character will be consistent with the chalk grasslands created Linear park along the Linear Park, however its primary function is that of a dynamic space with provision for structured play and sporting activities. There would be a Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play (NEAP) within the park catering for children of all ages and young people. Retained vegetation The Park would include formal gardens and space for alongside existing PRoW community events.
Play
New tree planting
Swale
New tree planting
Primary school site
Winklebury Way
Fig 4.5 Illustration of the Central Neighbourhood Park
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 25 Southern Neighbourhood Park
The character of the southern Neighbourhood Park will respond to the more formal layout of the crescent and the north-south green corridor. The Park is closely associated with the area allocated for outdoor sports providing a comprehensive and substantial open space. The Park accommodates the oil pipeline easement.
The details of the layout and planting specifications will be determined as a result of reserved matters applications, however the following description and diagram gives an illustration of how this park may be laid out.
New tree planting would supplement the existing hedgerow to the east of the pipeline and meadow grass abundant with floral species would be established. These less intensively managed areas would contribute to the overall provision of ANGS.
Four Multi Use Games Areas (MUGA) are located adjacent the park and opportunities for shared parking facilities between the sports facilities and nearby sports pitches could be accommodated. Note that the area proposed for MUGA (0.7ha) contributes to outdoor sports provision and is in addition to the 2.4ha Neighbourhood Park.
A local equipped area for play is located at the centre of the park defined by landforms in response to the naturally sloping site.
The park could be designed to include avenues of trees that would run through the park which would allow for definition of park areas which may be laid out as lawns, public gardens and play areas.
Fig 4.6 Cycle/ footway through open space, with swale and meadow Fig 4.7 Open green space for informal recreation
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 26 Green Link
Sports Ground
Parking
Outdoor Sport (MUGA) Table Tennis
Lawn with easement Play for existing pipeline Park Gardens
Retained existing hedgerow and new tree planting within a floristic diverse grassland
Green Link
Fig 4.8 Illustration of the Southern Neighbourhood Park
Fig 4.9 Activities such as boules or table tennis Fig 4.10 Multi Use Games Area Fig 4.11 Park gardens for relaxing and socialising
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 27 4.2 Green Corridors and Buffers
Green corridors and buffers form an essential part of the green infrastructure for the Proposed Development. Their primary purpose is for the protection and/or enhancement of landscape and ecological features, but where public access can be accommodated. The corridors and buffers are at least 20m wide and in many cases they are substantially wider, as described in more detail below. This is considered an appropriate minimum width to provide a robust offset to sensitive features whilst also allowing informal recreation for people.
Green corridors and buffers include:
Q Green link along existing PRoW between Worting Church Lane and the Country Park;
Q Green link along existing PRoW between Worting Wood Farm and Roman Road;
Q Green Link from the Northern Gateway Neighbourhood Park to the Country Park;
Q Green edge to the northern site entrance adjacent the A339;
Q Green link along the oil pipeline easement;
Q Green edge and landscape buffer to Roman Road; and
Q Green edges and buffers to Worting Road, the Worting Conservation Area, the Oakley Strategic Gap (western boundary) and the southern edge of the Country Park Church Lane Green Link
An existing PRoW extends from Worting Church Lane to Worting Wood. It is lined on both sides by an existing hedgerow and trees. The hedgerow and trees have good vigour and dense crowns which form a canopy over the existing footpath. Fig 4.12 Green Corridors and Buffers This already well walked route will continue to provide excellent pedestrian connectivity from the Site to Worting in the south and the new Country Park to the north. An intersection with the Main Green Fingers to Country Park Street halfway along its length will also provide connections These green spaces provide safe pedestrian and cycle links to the network of foot and cycle routes provided through the between the Main Street and the Country Park. They are development area. In addition a 3m wide multi-user route will be informal in character and also provide a landscape connection provided parallel to the green link and within the development between the Country Park and the Northern Neighbourhood area eliminating the need to widen the existing footpath which Park. lies within an ecologically valuable corridor. These spaces will help assimilate the Proposed Development A break in the hedgerows would be required where the Main into the landscape, maintaining views into the Site and Street crosses it but this will be kept as short as possible increasing the visual presence of the Country Park. to avoid unnecessary fragmentation. There is potential for supplementary planting to infill any existing gaps and land to The wood pasture proposed within the north eastern portion of either side of this route will include additional planting to buffer the Country Park could extend along these green links into the and strengthen this corridor. development to provide visual continuity with the Country Park.
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 28 Buffers Worting and to minimise adverse effects on the setting of the Worting Conservation Area, by maintaining a pastoral setting. Green edges and buffers are provided where it is considered necessary and appropriate to strengthen landscape character Visual buffers are provided along the north western edge of and to mitigate for adverse visual effects which might arise as the Proposed Development and along the western boundary a result of the Proposed Development. Green buffers provide to reduce the visual impact on the AONB and other areas of physical and visual separation between the existing environment nearby open countryside. and the new development. They would be planted with locally Pedestrian access within green corridors and buffers will be appropriate tree and understorey species and will be sufficiently controlled by clearly defined routes and signposting. Informal dense to screen or filter views of development. surfacing such as compacted stone would be used with Landscape buffers are provided at the north east site boundary appropriate drainage and cross falls provided to ensure they are adjacent the A339, and along the Worting Road to maintain a usable throughout the year. rural character, preserve the separation between Oakley and
Fig 4.13 Existing trees and hedgerow along PRoW extending from Church Lane Fig 4.14 View along PRoW extending from Church L1ane
Existing Trees and hedgerow
Existing Trees Houses facing and hedgerow green link foot/cycleway, within development area Potential for open spaces to be located along this Landscape strip Existing green link beyond RPA, ecology PROW Landscape strip corridor and also to width varies accommodate change in site levels
15 m Varies 3m Up to 45 m
Fig 4.15 Illustrative section through Church Lane Green Link showing the existing PRoW with retained trees and hedgerow to either side, and the proposed 3m wide footapth/cycleway running parallel and adjacent to the Green Link, but within the development area.
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 29 4.3 Biodiversity and Landscape Features
Biodiversity and Landscape features are MFGS whose primary purpose is for wildlife protection or enhancement and/or the protection of important landscape features, but where public access for informal recreation can be accommodated.
The adjacent diagram identifies the indicative locations of the biodiversity and landscape features.
Their specific function will vary according to site specific requirements and further detail is provided in the ecological mitigation strategy set out in Chapter 9 of the Environmental Statement (doc ref MSD12).
Features will make use of retained habitats where possible but will be supplemented with new planting to create naturalistic and functional ecological habitats. Any new planting would be native and of locally appropriate origin.
Some features will provide a natural transition between sensitive ecological habitats and other more intensely used MFGS. A range of trees, shrubs, climbers, herbaceous plants and species rich grasslands will maximise species and structural diversity and provide a rich visual setting for the development.
Some features, such as supplementary hedgerow and hedgerow tree planting will not only bring ecological benefit Fig 4.16 Biodiversity and Landscape Features but will also strengthen landscape character and provide visual screening.
Access throughout biodiversity and landscape features will be largely informal creating a diverse environment in which people and wildlife are naturally integrated. Lighting would be avoided.
In addition to those areas shown in Fig 4.16 supplementary hedgerow planting is proposed to the eastern edge of Oakley for ecological mitigation purposes. This will include native tree planting within existing hedgerows and the infilling of gaps with native hedgerow species within existing hedgerows.
Fig 4.17 Grassland and scrub mosaic Fig 4.18 Bird and insect boxes Fig 4.19 Wildflower meadow
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 30 4.4 Amenity Green Space
As part of the local MFGS offer, Amenity Green Spaces are distributed frequently throughout the Proposed Development providing a network of playable green spaces.
The adjacent diagram identifies the proposed indicative locations of Amenity Green Space, which include areas of mown grass with a minimum rectangular area of 1,600 sq m and a minimum 10m buffer to the nearest property. The exact configuration, location and areas of Amenity Green Space will be determined in accordance with reserved matters approvals.
Amenity green spaces would have tree and shrub planting to create attractive and safe places to meet and socialise with friends and neighbours. They would include playful features, seating, litter bins and cycle stands.
The provision and locations of Amenity Green Spaces will be provided in accordance with BDBC’s Green Space Standards, as follows;
Q Minimum size requirement of 15m x 15m. and a catchment area of 300m. Update diagram to show amenity green The south west corner of the Site, including that which is space only update red-line boundary safeguarded for the purposes of the railway crossing, is not within the 300m minimum distance threshold for Amenity Green Space but residents in this area would have easy access to the southern neighbourhood park, the LEAP and outdoor sports fields. Fig 4.20 Indicative location and catchment radius for Amenity Green Spaces The Green and Roman Road Linear Park are both Amenity Green Spaces and these are described and illustrated in more detail on the following pages.
Fig 4.21 Communal green space set within the development Fig 4.22 Areas of mown grass and play
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 31 The Green
This Amenity Green Space is formed around an existing cluster of trees. The trees are very distinct and prominent on the Site and it important to preserve this feature within a green setting.
The existing cluster of trees will form the focal point of this local park. Reserved matters approvals will determine the final design of the area, however it is anticipated that it will include a component of Accessible Natural Green Space. This may be achieved by swathes of planting and wild-flower meadow running along the contours of the rising slope to create an attractive and playful area.
An equipped play space could be located on the flatter areas Fig 4.23 Wild-flower meadow with mown informal paths of the local park, framed by paths and meadow grass. There could be lawns with benches located at the top of the slope maximising views to the south.
The park adjoins the existing mature woodland within the Country Park. New planting could reinforces this edge to provide a buffer to the adjacent ancient woodland so that there is no direct access into the woodland from this park.
New planting to woodland edge
Fig 4.24 Local equipped area for play
New hedgerow planting to development edge
Existing copse of trees with Existing mature new hedgerow woodland planting to improve connectivity Wildflower meadow
Play
Planting along contours of slope
Wildflower meadow along contours of slope
Fig 4.25 Illustration of The Green (an Amenity Green Space)
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 32 Roman Road Linear Park
An Amenity Green Space lies alongside Roman Road The trees and ground cover in the linear park will also create an providing separation between the existing houses and the ecology corridor along this eastern edge, providing shelter, food new development. This park would be designed to provide and refuge for nesting birds and other wildlife. an attractive green space for existing and new residents, incorporating a pedestrian and cycle route, swales and tree planting. The parameter plans allow for the Linear Park to have a varied width and form; to enable variation in width at key locations and to provide a purposeful open space.
It is anticipated that housing would front onto the park and that the planting within the park would not be too dense, ensuring visual permeability through the park.
The linear park has the potential to reflect a local landscape character of chalk grasslands (calcareous grassland) to help root the Proposed Development within the wider surroundings.
A characteristic feature of chalk downlands are winterbournes, Fig 4.26 Seating and wild-flower meadow within linear park these are seasonally flowing streams which are dry in the summer months. It is possible that a winterbourne or swale will run along the length of the linear park, although this will be determined through Reserved Matters applications, as would the location of crossing points.
A footpath and cycleway would, where possible, be placed alongside the winterbourne/swale providing a pleasant environment for cyclists and pedestrians to traverse this area. Vegetation and trees could be planted alongside the winterbourne to provide a soft green edge to Roman Road creating an attractive interface along the existing settlement edge at Winklebury.
Fig 4.27 Foot and cycleway through linear park
Existing tree s
New trees
Low-key vehicle Cycle way and Roman Existing routes foot path footway Dry valley Road / swale
Existing level
Overall width 30m
Fig 4.28 Illustrative section through Roman Road linear park
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 33 4.5 Accessible Natural Green Space (ANGS)
ANGS forms an important component of the MFGS offer. They are green spaces which are designed and/or managed to encourage biodiversity but which are freely accessible to people and where a feeling of naturalness is allowed to predominate.
ANGS will be provided across the Site, meeting the maximum distance threshold of 600m, with the exception of two very small areas of development in the northern portion of the Site, as shown on Fig 4.29. Residents in these areas are in close proximity to either Amenity Green Space or a Neighbourhood Park, some areas of which would be less intensively managed thereby providing a similar experience to ANGS.
Typically ANGS would include the following:
Q grasslands (managed for floristic diversity);
Q swales, attenuation ponds and wetlands;
Q copses and small woodlands;
Q the less intensively managed parts of parks, school grounds and sports pitches; and
Q other land which can evolve overtime as a mixture of planted and spontaneous assemblages.
ANGS are characterised by natural landscape features, managed for public access. Given the proximity and character Fig 4.29 Location and catchment radius for Accessible Natural Green Space of the Country Park (detailed further in Section 5.0), it is considered appropriate to provide some ANGS within the therefore that an area not less than 0.25Ha ANGS be provided Country Park. The Country Park can deliver quality ANGS within the Country Park. with high biodiversity and nature conservation value, without compromising the existing Ancient Woodland. Furthermore, the long southern edge of the Country Park means that many of the new residents will be in close proximity to the BDBC Green Space standards do not specify a minimum Country Park ensuring that ANGS are readily accessible to a size requirement for ANGS but Natural England guidance great many people. recommends a minimum size threshold of 0.25Ha. It is intended
Fig 4.30 Attenuation pond set within Accessible Natural Green Space Fig 4.31 Accessible Natural Green Space
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 34 4.6 Equipped Play
Play provision at Manydown will be located in outdoor sites with equipment and facilities aimed specifically for children and young people and where play is the predominant use of the Site.
The adjacent diagram identifies the proposed locations for equipped play areas. The distribution of play areas ensures that all residents are within the recommended 600m catchment and they are well placed in relation to local centres and primary schools as well as to residential development.
The play areas would be situated within neighbourhood parks and amenity green spaces and are as follows;
Q Four Local Equipped Areas for Play (LEAP), with a minimum size 300sqm
Q One Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play (NEAP), with a minimum size 750sqm
The LEAPs and NEAP would comply with BDBC’s Green Space Standards and Green Infrastructure Strategy, and with BDBC’s Play Area Specification. They would have approriate buffer zones to separate activity areas from residential dwellings.
In addition to play equipment, the NEAP, located within the Central Neighbourhood Park, would have a hard surfaced area for all weather ball games. This all-weather area would be in addition to the four MUGA which form part of the outdoor sports Fig 4.32 Locations and radial catchment distances for proposed play provision. areas
Fig 4.33 Examples of play equipment that could be used within the Neighbourhood Parks
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 35 4.7 Outdoor Sports Provision
This page illustrates the open space requirements for outdoor sports provision. Based on the maximum number of homes and anticipated population, an area of 8.4ha has been calculated as the requirement for outdoor sports provision. This is calculated using the guidelines within Basingstoke and Deane’s ‘Section 106 Planning Obligations & Community Infrastructure Interim Planning Guidance’.
Consultation with BDBC’s Facilities Provision Officer has confirmed that it would be appropriate to provide the following, to meet the needs of the Proposed Development:
Q 4 x outdoor playing pitches, grass, well drained, no floodlighting - 7500 sq m per pitch; 7 ha 0.7 ha
Q 4 x MUGA/tennis courts with all weather surface;
Q 1 x 3G artificial pitch, with floodlighting, which could be shared provision with the secondary school; and
Q Changing facilities for the outdoor playing pitches and car parking.
To meet the above provision, the strategy proposes 7.7ha of outdoor sport in the Sports Hub including outdoor playing pitches, all-weather courts, changing facilities and car parking.
Fig 4.34 shows the indicative location for this. Additionally, Fig 4.34 Size of outdoor sports provision and indicative location an indoor sports hall and a 3G artificial pitch are proposed. The artificial grass pitch could be a shared facility with the secondary school, or if the secondary school does not come In addition to the outdoor provision, there is also a requirement forward, then provided elsewhere within the development area. for an indoor sports hall, equivalent to the size of four badminton This will be agreed at the reserved matters stage of design. courts. This would be located in close proximity to the outdoor There can be no floodlighting towards the western edge of the sports pitches, such that parking and changing facilities could site to ensure that lighting does not give rise to adverse effects be shared. on the adjacent open countryside and on sensitive woodland areas, such as Mothers Copse.
New Woodland Existing Planting hedgerow
Sports pitch
Fig 4.35 Illustrative Section through sports hub
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 36 Existing hedgerow supplemented with native tree planting
grass playing pitches B3400 Worting Road
Existing PRoW
all weather sports pitch Existing hedgerow
New woodland Indicative location of changing planting facilities, car parking and indoor sports hall
SUDs
Existing woodland (Mother’s Copse)
Existing hedgerow adjacent to PROW
Fig 4.36 Illustration of the Sports Hub
Existing Existing Proposed tree hedgerow PROW planting hedgerow Existing ground level Proposed ground level
Sports pitch
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 37 4.8 Allotments
Allotments form an important component of the overall open space offer at Manydown. Allotments provide the opportunity for residents without their own garden to grow their own food, whilst also promoting a healthy lifestyle and social interaction.
The diagram opposite illustrates the indicative location of two proposed allotment areas, together with the location of existing allotments in proximity to the Site.
The allotments are proposed to be in the north and south of the allocation area and will be accessible to existing residential neighbourhoods as well as new Manydown residents.
The BDBC Green Space Standards require that allotments should have a minimum size of 1,375sqm with a catchment area of 600m.
The allotment areas, as proposed, amount to 2.8 ha. In these indicative locations the middle part of the Site is not within the required 600m catchment. However, existing provision within the adjoining settlement will be accessible to Manydown residents and consultation with BDBC’s Specialist Services Officer has indicated that two larger allotment sites would be preferable and more practical than a number of smaller scattered sites.
The location of the allotment in the northern portion of the Site has arisen partly through the desire to keep low height development and open spaces in the areas most visually prominent from the AONB, to help reduce the visual impact. A Fig 4.37 Indicative location and radial catchment distances of proposed allotments landscape buffer along the A339 will provide a visual screen between the allotments and the road. At the reserved matters stage, an alternative location such as the Country Park could be agreed, if that would better meet accessibility and landscape criteria.
Fig 4.38 Allotments and community gardens
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 38 4.9 Local Centres and Streets
A Market Square is proposed at the main Local Centre in the centre of the proposed development. This will be a high quality, versatile space, able to accommodate a range of activities, such as a market or seasonal events, but most importantly it will be an attractive and comfortable place to be at all other times. This should be a place in which to linger; with plenty of well positioned seats and bike stands.
Responding to the sloping site, terraces through the Market Square could provide a variety of different spaces including shared surfaces, with visually attractive and high quality paving materials suitable for vehicles and pedestrians. Feature planting and trees will where possible soften this primarily paved space.
The Main Street is proposed to run through the local centres and it will be influenced by the design and character of the public squares. Along all sections of the Main Street and other streets there is potential to accommodate regular and formal avenue tree planting, such as large species avenue trees such as London Plane or Lime.
There is the potential to include urban swales along the main roads, given the natural fall across the Site. These swales would be attractively planted, capturing rain and surface run off, and creating visual interest along the route. Fig 4.39 Large trees and planting along a Main Street, incorporating urban swales Occasional spaces could also be created for cycle parking and seating beneath lines of trees.
Fig 4.40 Main Street characterised by the design of local centre squares, including seating and planting
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 39 Defensible Footpath Segregated Planting Carriageway Parking and Segregated Footpath Defensible Space Space 2 m Cycleway 2/3m 5 /6 m tree planting Cycleway 2 m or wider footpath 1.5 m 2 m 2 m 2 m at shops 1.5m
Overall width max 22m Fig 4.41 Typical illustrative section through the Main Street
Fig 4.43 Water features and drainage attenuation designed in the public realm
Fig 4.42 Public square, with flexible space, seating and planting Fig 4.44 Routes through public space with planting and seating
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 40 Footpaths would be improved in accordance with 4.10 Public Rights Of Way HCC's preferred specification, as shown below in Fig 4.45 and Fig 4.46. Manydown presents an opportunity to encourage healthy living and a lifestyle which incorporates walking as regular exercise. 1 60mm wearing course Taking into consideration ecological sensitivities, many of the existing Public Rights of Way (PRoW) within the Manydown site 2 100-150mm sub-base will be preserved and upgraded with a durable and suitable 3 Geotextile Membrane surface. The Green Lane PRoW is one main exception to 1.5 m wide footpath this, as it is considered to be especially ecologically sensitive, 1 particularly at its margins, and so this path and associated 2% 2% vegetation would be preserved and protected as is. Breaks 2 within this corridor would be kept to an absolute minimum. An 3 additional parallel multi-user route would be provided to the east of the Green Lane PRoW within the development area. This is Fig 4.45 HCC PRoW construction cross-section shown on Fig 4.15.
The new development will most likely put additional recreation pressure on some of the existing PRoW within proximity to the site and it would be prudent to allow for surfacing and signage improvements to those footpaths most likely to be affected. A review of the existing extensive network has been undertaken and through discussions with Hampshire Countryside Service list of suggested improvements has been drawn up. Where necessary to make the development acceptable in planning terms this work could be carried out by the highways authority Fig 4.46 Typical footpath surface, Fittleworth stone and secured using a Section 106 agreement.
Fig 4.47 Map showing PRoW within the application site and surrounding area
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 41 Pedestrian & Cycle Links at Worting Road Junction
The B3400 Worting Road will be realigned and there will be two junctions providing vehicular access into the development area to the north and south.
Road crossing points will be provided to ensure that pedestrians can safely move between the two areas of the development, particularly the local centre which lies to the north of the Worting Road and the outdoor sports facilities to the south.
A footpath/cycleway will follow the original road alignment alongside which existing hedgerows and trees will be preserved as far as is possible. Informal landscape treatment to the north and south of the road will soften the transition from rural to suburban. Planting will include hedgerows, and groups of trees Fig 4.48 Multi-user route - gentle topography and planting provide structure and visual interest. in meadow grass with surface water attenuation features.
The landscape treatment at the cross roads junction will be characterised by a more formal planting arrangement, allowing filtered views of the local centre and creating a gateway into the new development. Strong planting at the corner of the Scrapp's Hill boundary will provide visual screening to and from the Worting Village conservation area.
Green Link
SUDs SUDs Scrapp's Hill Farm
Foot-/Cycle path Playing Fields
New woodland planting
Existing PROW
Green Link Fig4.49 Illustrative Sketch of Worting Road Junction
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 42 For secondary and tertiary street ornamental tree species 4.11 Planting Strategy providing seasonal interest would be suitable. Prunus ‘Sunset Boulevard’ (Cherry Blossom Sunset Boulevard) is a tough, New trees will be planted throughout the Site, within public strong growing, ornamental tree with a tidy, upright shape open spaces and along primary streets within the Proposed which provides year round interest with its white flowers in Development. Trees will be a mix of native and ornamental spring and golden-yellow leaves in autumn. Sorbus aucuparia species. ‘Joseph Rock’ (Rowan Joseph Rock) and Amelanchier lamarckii Native tree species, such as Quercus robur (English Oak) and (Serviceberry) would be suitable garden trees within the Betula pendula (Silver Birch), will support a wide range of birds, residential areas. insects and small mammals, maximising the biodiversity of the New woodland planting will comprise native species and will Site. include an upper canopy of English oak and small leaved lime. Ornamental species, such as Betula albosinensis ‘Fascination’ Suitable smaller canopy trees would be included such as silver (Chinese Red Birch) or Liquidamber styraciflua (American birch, field maple, wild cherry and rowan. A suitable understory Sweetgum) will provide seasonal and visual interest (with their of shrubs would also be included such as hazel, holly, hawthorn, colour and texture) on street and within amenity spaces within guelder rose and dog/field rose. the development area. Native trees which tolerate wet conditions, such as Salix fragilis Street trees can be included along sections of the Main Street (Crack willow) and Alnus glutinosa (Common Alder) with some and other main routes. Platanus Hispanica (London plane) native black poplar planting, are proposed around attenuation and Tilia cordata ‘Greenspire’ (Small-leaved lime Greenspire) ponds providing a natural character. would provide a reliable tree species for this environment. With Further detail on the planting strategy will be agreed with the a clear stem and a regular habit it creates an attractive, formal council in future detailed design stages. character.
Fig 4.50 Tilia cordata ‘Greenspire’ Fig 4.52 Quercus robur
Fig 4.51 Prunus ‘Sunset Boulevard’ Fig 4.53 Betula pendula with textured Fig 4.54 Liquidamber styraciflua in autumn bark ©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 43 ] 5.0 Country Park
Park Hub will be the focus of activity with existing buildings 5.1 Executive Summary at Worting Wood Farm re-purposed to create a visitor and education centre. Car and cycle parking will be provided. The Country Park will be a new area of publicly accessible The detailed design of the park and a long-term Management open space adjacent to the Manydown development. It will Plan will be submitted at the Reserved Matters stage; this will be a recreational resource for the people of Basingstoke (both include the specification for the management of protected sites, existing and new communities) as it will be readily accessible habitats and species, landscape management operations, from Winklebury, Wooton St Lawrence, Worting, Oakley, visitor facilities and access arrangements. Buckskin, Rooksdown and of course Manydown. It will also be The costs associated with establishing the Country Park will be a destination for the wider Hampshire community. The Country funded directly by the development, with other funding options Park will provide opportunities for recreation and leisure, whilst such as CIL, grants and contributions from other development also being mindful of the need to protect existing valuable sites to be explored. ecological and landscape features. It will create new and diverse ecological habitats, consistent with the natural flora and The governance of the Country Park is yet to be determined faunal communities of the Hampshire Downs. and options are currently being considered. These include management by HCC and BDBC (as joint future landowners), a The area for the Country Park is identified in policy SS3.10 of the Charitable Trust, Community Interest Company or outsourced adopted Local Plan. The proposed site is 101 ha and includes via a private management contractor. mature woodlands, recent woodland planting and arable fields on a gently undulating topography. It lies to the immediate north west of Manydown (SS3.10) and separates the allocation site from the wider open countryside and the North Wessex Downs 5.2 Background Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The area for the Country Park is identified in policy SS3.10 of the Natural England and DEFRA set out criteria for achieving adopted Local Plan. The proposed site for the Country Park is accredited status for a Country Park and these criteria have 101 hectares and includes mature woodlands, recent woodland provided a starting point for the Vision of the Country Park. planting and arable fields on a gently undulating topography. The Vision is outlined in this section of the Landscape Strategy The 101ha Country Park is to be provided in addition to the which describes the key features of the Country Park which will proposed 66.18ha open space associated with the Proposed comprise existing mature and ancient woodland, traditionally Development. managed coppiced hazel woodland, parkland with extensive areas of amenity grass, species-rich meadows, wood pasture Natural England and the Department for Environment, Food & and the retention of some arable and grazing farmland. There Rural Affairs sets out criteria for achieving accredited status for will be a network of new footpaths which will tie in with existing a new Country Park. This includes ‘essential’ and ‘desirable’ Public Rights of Way and which will give access to and from criteria and these are listed below. The criteria has provided a residential areas and the wider open countryside. A Country starting point for the design of the Country Park.
Fig 5.1 Aerial view looking west towards the proposed Country Park, with Worting Wood Farm and Worting Wood in the mid ground and the North Wessex Downs AONB in the distance.
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 44 Essential criteria Desirable criteria
A Country Park must be: A Country Park should ideally have: • at least 10 hectares in size (24.7 acres) • a visitor centre • defined by a clear boundary – marked on a map, whether it’s • play facilities open or fenced in • catering • accessible – less than 10 miles from a residential area • bike and horse trails • free to enter • art and sculpture • inclusive and accessible – providing for varied groups and • permanent staff presence during the day for equality and disability needs. Inclusive environments are welcoming to everyone, responsive to people’s needs, • detailed information available to visitors e.g. leaflets intuitive to use, flexible, offer choice when a single design • brown and white tourist directional signs and shown on an solution cannot meet all user needs and be convenient OS map so that they can be used without undue effort or special separation thereby maximising independence. • activities outside e.g. water sports and adventure sports • predominantly natural or semi-natural landscape, e.g. • achieved, or is working towards, Green Flag Award (GFA) woodland, grassland, wetland, heathland or parkland, with status no more than 5% of the area built upon (excluding car parks) • a green transport policy, e.g. buses and cycle routes to your • signposted and easy to navigate – visitors should be shown site where they can go and what they can do and directed along • facilities for less able visitors e.g. easy trails, seats and footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes information available in accessible formats • visibly staffed, e.g. litter collection and maintenance • planned for the management of biodiversity, geodiversity and • available for public or educational events preservation of historical environment • near public toilets – either on site or a 2 minute walk away • opportunities for practical community involvement, e.g. volunteering • informed by the local community – the public should have some influence over the management and development of • promoted the health benefits of walking the site. • an outreach programme promoting your site to less represented sectors of the community • a programme of events and guided walks, promoting healthy living and environmental awareness
Q Landscape importance. Will not significantly change the Emerging Vision landscape, looks outward. Place to relax & enjoy the views, In 2013, Hampshire County Council Countryside Services set soften the impact of development. out its initial strategy for how a Country Park could be feasible Q Learning. Place to learn and have fun. Themes: woodland in the context of the landscape at the Site. The strategy was and food (productive countryside). guided by the following principles; Q Rural life. Farmers markets, small events, woodland and rural Q Welcoming. Safe access to the countryside for families and crafts. Not a farm attraction. less confident users. Q Free. For the people of Basingstoke not a regional attraction. Q Informal. Opportunities for wild play, not formalised activities. Meet local needs. Q Gateway. Hub for accessing wider countryside, transition from built to rural landscape.
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 45 The plan below illustrates the size and distribution of the 5.2 Case Studies five main Country Parks in Hampshire and in relation to the Manydown Site. The five main Country Parks are maintained The Manydown design team met with Hampshire County and promoted by Hampshire County Council and located in the Council’s Country Parks Team Leader to visit three of the south of Hampshire. Country Parks currently managed by Hampshire County The West Walk, which also forms part of the case study is Council: Staunton CP, Manor Farm CP and Royal Victoria CP located within the South Downs National Park and managed by The purpose of the visit was to see what some of the existing the Forestry Commission on a low maintenance budget. This is Country Parks in Hampshire have to offer in order to inform not an accredited Country Park. ideas for the proposed Country Park at Manydown.
The sites visited represent a range of low and high maintenance park areas, visitor centres and pay zones and are described below, listing the key elements of each park along with photos and plans.
Yateley Common
CP Manydown CP 250 acres Lakeside Basingstoke Brickfields CP Nature Reserve
(CP)
s
u s
i
u
d i
a d
a R
R
m
k
m
0
k
2
5 2
Winchester Farley Mount
CP
SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK
1. Queen Elizabeth CP Lakeside CP 1400 acres Itchen Valley
CP Southampton • West Walk 2. Staunton CP 3. Manor Farm CP 4. Royal Victoria CP 1000 acres 400 acres 200 acres Holly Hill NEW FOREST Woodland CP Moors Valley NATIONAL PARK CP Portsmouth
Alver Valley
5. LEPE CP CP 50 acres
ISLE OF WIGHT
Fig 5.2 Size and distribution of Country Parks in Hampshire
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 46 West Walk, 865 acres
The West Walk is the largest remaining fragment of the former Forest of Bere and located in the South Downs National Park, north of Wickham. It is managed by the Forestry Commission. There are three car parks available for visitors and a daily or hourly fee is charged for parking which is the only income the site generates. The main activity area is at the southern car park where two demarcated play areas for older and younger children are located. This area is highly visited during the weekends and the nearby car park can be overloaded during this time. An independently managed trailer selling snacks is available during the weekend and parked at the southern car Fig 5.3 Toilets park.
Catchment Local Entry Fee Free access Car Parking Charged car parking Built Facilities Q Toilets
Q Portable food kiosk
Visitor Q woodland trails Experiences Q ancient woodland
Q woodland play
Q parking, toilets
Q adventure play Fig 5.4 Woodland themed play area
Fig 5.5 Map of West Walk
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 47 Staunton Country Park, 1000 acres
Staunton Country Park comprises a pay zone visitor area and a large area of open parkland. The visitor area, approximately 60-70 acres, is located at the south-east corner of the Country Park and is separated from the rest of the park by a vehicular road. Visitors are channelled through the visitor centre building to enter the pay zone. The farm and gardens within the pay zone relate back to the site as a former estate owned by George Staunton.
A café is located inside the pay zone and is run by a council- owned catering company. The café is not separated from the farm area therefore strict health and safety rules apply.
Catchment Regional Entry Fee Payzone with free access to the wider park Car Parking Charged car parking Built Facilities Q visitor centre with educational space, gift shop and offices
Q cafe with toilets
Q indoor play area
Q secure storage for maintenance equipment Visitor Q payzone with: Animal farm, play, glass Experiences house, maze Fig 5.6 Map of Staunton Country Park
Q open parkland
Q ancient woodland
Q visitor centre, parking, toilets
Q cafe
Q picnic areas in the park
Fig 5.7 Cafe with outdoor seating Fig 5.8 Visitor centre and entrance to payzone
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 48 Manor Farm Country Park, 400 acres
Manor Farm is located at the far east of Manor Farm Country Park and lies within the pay zone of the park. The River Hamble runs to the south-east of the site and is one of the main attractions of the Country Park. A good portion of the open parkland is ancient woodland comprising mainly oak trees which were used for shipbuilding. Café and toilets are located outside of the pay zone at Manor Farm.
Catchment Regional Fig 5.9 Open parkland Entry Fee Payzone with free access to the wider park
Car Parking Charged car parking Built Facilities Q visitor centre with educational space, gift shop and offices
Q cafe with toilets
Q secure storage for maintenance equipment Visitor Q payzone with: animal farm, historic farm Experiences buildings and play
Q open parkland
Q ancient woodland Fig 5.10 Farm activity and education area
Q river Hamble and fishing *EVQ %XXVEGXMSR Q visitor centre, parking, toilets Manor (MWGSZIVXLI[SVOMRK Farm LMWXSVMGJEVQ 1IIXXLIERMQEPW *IIHXLIGLMGOIRWERH Q cafe HYGOW 8EOITEVXMRSYVHEMP] Q caravan sites JEQMP]EGXMZMXMIW No public access No public access 6MZIV 8EOIEXVERUYMP[EPOEPSRKXLI FEROWSJXLI6MZIV,EQFPIERH IRNS]WSQIWTIGXEGYPEVZMI[W JVSQMXWFEROW 7TSXXLI[VIGOSJXLI+VEGI(MIY
Dock No public Copse access
River Hamble
Dockdell Public Footpath Copse
Kings Copse Meadow Longmead
Fosters Pontoon Copse No public access Toplands Public Footpath Catland Copse Barnfield Dog Exercise Field Claypit Copse Vantage Bottom Copse Copse To Hedge End
To Bursledon Bottom QEII Jubilee Copse Activity Centre
Hoe Moor Copse
No public access Cricket Camp Scout Centre Sandpit Copse &EVR½IPH s 2UN WILD ON THE
Durncombe Hoe Moor Copse Copse PLAY TRAIL s 3TOP OFF FOR A PICNIC s 'RAB ICE CREAMS AND REFRESHMENTS FROM Entrance THE KIOSK s %NJOY THE WIDE OPEN SPACES To Bursledon & M27 (Jn8) Fig 5.11 Map of Manor Farm Country Park
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 49 Royal Victoria Country Park, 200 acres
Royal Victoria Park used to hold the biggest military hospital in the Victorian Empire. It now comprises a large area of open parkland with views onto Southampton Water, areas of ancient woodland and open fields which accommodate areas for BBQ and caravan rally sites.
Catchment Regional Entry Fee Free entry to all areas of the Country Park
Car Parking Charged car parking Built Facilities Q hub building with a cafe, flexible education/community space, toilets, Fig 5.12 View from the chapel tower over the Solent offices and storage space
Q secure storage for maintenance equipment
Visitor Q historic chapel Experiences Q open parkland
Q ancient woodland
Q miniature railway
Q accessible play
Q seashore walks
Q BBQ and picnic areas
Fig 5.13 Main hub building with cafe, community space and Country Park
offices W
Footpath to Footpath to Your guide to Enjoy a Hamble Halt Hamble Ride the Barbecue Railway Celebrate a special Take a ride on the fabulous occasion or family get Private miniature railway which Royal Victoria Country Park together by hiring one covers over a mile of track of our picturesque around the park. Children barbecue sites located War Graves will love the special activities throughout the park. Cemetery programme throughout the year including treasure hunts, teddy bear’s picnic and Santa’s grotto.
Private Private W Orchard y Private Footpath to Hamble Ke Footpath to Netley (Lovers Lane) Toilet with disabled facilities Station (20 mins) Cemetery Seafront car park Wood Barbecue area (BBQ) Round car park Picnic site Small Caravan Bluebell Chapel car park Private Rally Field Dog bin Wood BBQ Areas Caravan Tall Pines car park Rally Field Public road Rowan Information Roads and tracks accessible Private Willow to walkers and cyclists Bluebell Children’s play area Footpath Primrose Cypress Laurel Royal Victoria Railway (RVR) Children’s play area for wheelchair users Road Barrier Oak Hawthorn Tea Rooms, Function Rooms and Park Offices Hamble Rail Trail Solent Way Footpath Sensory Miniature Railway Acorns Education Facility Royal Victoria Country Park Garden (RVR) boundary WC Toilet History Trail i Cedar Tea Rooms P 3 Private P 4 & Park Offices Heritage Private Visitor Centre
WC
Sample wholesome Private W Sailing Club Footpath foods P 2 (private) to Hamble Relax in the traditional Cedar Tea Rooms where you can enjoy a variety of homemade soups, cakes and light snacks
indoors or out on the patio. Disabled access Horse Pond to beach Wood Private Steps Sports P 1 Pier view Pavilion point Exceptional Heritage Visitor views Centre Steps Step inside the iconic chapel, Unwind and take in the Southampton Water breathtaking views over N which now houses the site’s Southampton Water. An ideal reception area, and visit the shop selling an exciting range spot to watch the constant Private of gifts. Discover more about
assortment of boats of all shapes W the fascinating military and and sizes and enjoy views across Main Entrance 0m 100m 100m nursing history of the site in to the Isle of Wight. To Netley Abbey and the exhibition centre. Westwood Woodland Park Fig 5.14 Map of Royal Victoria Country Park
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 50 Summary of case studies
The case studies provide insight into the nature and function of the existing Country Parks in Hampshire and give some guidance for the proposed Country Park at Manydown. Entry fee
Of the four Country Parks visited two included a payzone and two were free entry. However, those which included a payzone are regional attractions and therefore, given the HCC emerging vision for a Country Park which is ‘free’ and ‘for the people of Basingstoke not a regional attraction’, a payzone may not be appropriate for the proposed Country Park. Car Parking Fig 5.15 Cafe and seating at Manor Farm
All of the Country Parks visited charge for visitor parking. This is a key way for Country Parks to generate income and would be appropriate for the proposed Country Park. Built Facilities
Three of the four parks include built facilities providing visitor centres, cafe, offices, flexible education space, community space and toilets. The West Walk provides low key facilities with a simple toilet and occasional food stall. However West Walk is not an accredited Country Park and therefore the other parks may provide better guidance for appropriate built facilities. Visitor Experiences
A range of visitor experiences are offered across the Parks, including outdoor play, recreational trails through woodland & Fig 5.16 Pay and display car parking at West Walk open parkland, BBQ facilities and picnic areas.
Other visitor experiences include indoor play, animal farms and animal petting. However, these were included within payzones and therefore may not be appropriate for the proposed Country Park.
Fig 5.17 Walled garden at Staunton
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 51 is located at the western edge of the site. These are locally 5.3 Vision for the Country Park designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs). There are also further areas of mature woodlands The strategy for the Country Park draws on the examples set which have good ecological interest. They support a wide range by the existing Country Parks in Hampshire, and has been of protected and notable species including dormice, bats, developed through public consultation (refer to the Statement of badgers and invertebrates. A number of trees were noted as Community Involvement, doc ref MSD5) and emerging feasibility veterans with exceptional value for wildlife. There is also diverse work with the Country Park Steering Group. ground flora including areas of protected bluebells.
The strategy seeks to find a balance between recreational The strategy seeks to protect these valuable habitats. activities, protection of existing valuable ecological and Pedestrian activity would be limited to the existing PRoW and a landscape features and the creation and ongoing management small number of clearly defined footpath routes carefully located of new ecological habitats. through these woodlands. These paths would be routed to Existing key features within the area allocated for the Country focus pedestrian activity in the least sensitive locations. Park include the ancient woodlands, coppiced hazel Glades within the woodland would provide occasional clearings woodlands, hedgerows and the characterful farm building at within the dense woodlands, most notably in Worting Wood. Worting Farm. These assets create interest through their natural beauty, ecological value and seasonal variation. They are key Traditionally managed coppiced hazel woodland - Areas within character drivers for the Country Park proposals. Wootton Copse are currently managed coppice and areas within Worting Wood have also historically been managed this The strategy sets out the following key features for the Country way. The coppiced woodland creates a distinctive character, Park: with trees planted in a grid pattern and regular cutting Existing mature and ancient woodlands - This is a valuable natural (harvesting) to generate multiple long straight stems. The asset and a key feature of the new Country Park. Two ancient harvested poles can be used for stakes, wattle hurdles and hop woodlands exist on the Country Park site, Worting Wood and poles. These provide potential products and activities which Wootton Copse, a third area of woodland, Marvel Row Copse could be incorporated into the Country Park Hub. Furthermore
Fig 5.18 Existing Farmhouse at Worting Wood Farm Fig 5.19 Existing maintenance track through Worting Wood
Fig 5.20 Existing stable building at Worting Wood Farm Fig 5.21 Blue Bells in Worting Wood
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 52 sensitive and appropriate coppice management will be Wood-pasture - Wood-pasture is proposed to strengthen important for maintaining populations of protected species existing habitats and increase biodiversity by creating a new supported by the woodlands, especially the dormouse and for habitat type. This will be characterised by native trees (oak, maintaining the valuable ground flora. beech, alder, hazel and sweet chestnut) with pockets of scrub (hawthorn and blackthorn) within species rich grassland Country Park Hub - The existing Worting Wood Farm could be a and ideally fenced for occasional livestock grazing. Stiles or key feature of the Country Park. Given its proximity to the new livestock proof gates would be required where footpaths enter development and existing residents in Basingstoke it is a logical into areas of wood-pasture. location for a Country Park Hub. The existing characterful farm house, barn and stables have the potential to be used as a Arable and/or Grazing Farmland - There is the potential for areas visitor/education centre with links to local schools and colleges. of arable production to continue. Fields and margins would be Mitigation will be required for bats and bird species currently sensitively managed to encourage rare flora and ground nesting using these buildings however opportunities for education are birds. Management of grassland areas through livestock also present. grazing (e.g. active management of a deer population or the introduction of a local rare breed) could deliver biodiversity gains Amenity grassland - New amenity grassland is proposed for and potentially also community benefits. Grazing management informal recreation such as picnicking and kite flying. This would would need to be compatible with both ecological objectives comprise areas of short mown grass (regularly mown) and large, and recreational uses. individual parkland trees or small groups of parkland trees. Through the protection of existing ecological assets and the Species rich meadow - Areas of species rich meadow (twice creation of new landscape types, the Country Park will be able yearly mown) with new hedgerows and hedgerow trees at the to deliver high quality green space whilst also accommodating field margins would create a diverse habitat for nesting and some of the ecological mitigation measures as described foraging birds, invertebrates, reptiles and small mammals. in more detail in the Ecology chapter of the Environmental More regularly mown grass footpaths could weave through Statement (doc ref MSD12). these areas connecting the amenity grasslands.
Fig 5.22 Features to identify look out points and routes Fig 5.23 Meadow with informal mown paths Fig 5.24 Board-walk into woodland
Fig 5.25 Productive garden, Fig 5.26 Grazing Fig 5.27 Parkland with paths and Fig 5.28 Woodland crafts and such as hop garden meadow grass with trees activities
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 53 Pedestrian and cycle access points
Vehicle access point
Existing public rights of way and permissive routes
Proposed informal routes Wootton St Lawrence
Scenic viewpoint
Existing mature woodland and ancient woodland
Jubilee Woodland - Recently planted woodland Village Green
Proposed woodland planting
Recreational green space Arable or grazing land Wootton Copse Species rich meadow
Jubilee woodland Wood pasture
Jubilee Arable fields (managed sensitively woodland New Woodland for nesting ground birds)
Marvel Row Copse
Fig 5.29 Illustrative Country Park Strategy Plan
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 54 Wood pasture
Meadow Parkland
Meadow
Parkland
To Worting Winklebury Wood Jubilee woodland Worting Wood Worting Woodland Centre (Country Park Hub)
Local Centre
To Winklebury
To Worting
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 55 The sketch on the facing page illustrates one possible layout for 5.4 Country Park Hub the future Country Park Hub including a cafe with nearby visitor parking and an activity/education garden. The sketch indicates The Country Park Hub will be the focus of visitor activity and a potential pedestrian and vehicular access points connecting the gateway to the Country Park. The Hub would provide a range Hub to the Proposed Development as well as links into the wider of facilities and the starting point for a series of circular walks Country Park and Worting Wood. around the Country Park. A range of facilities and activities could be offered within the The ancient woodlands and managed coppice woodlands set Country Park Hub area. These could include: the theme for the Hub as a woodland centre where a range Q Cafe with outdoor seating of woodland based activities and educational opportunities could occur. It is important to note that whilst the ancient Q Indoor education space woodlands and traditional woodland management techniques Q Productive gardens, such as a hop garden could provide inspiration for the ‘woodland theme’, access and potential disturbance to sensitive soils and ground flora would Q Equipped woodland themed play area be carefully controlled and monitored to ensure that the integrity Q An activity garden with participation in crafts such as hurdle of the ancient woodland is preserved in the long-term, and not making and basket weaving, woodland education and a jeopardised by the increase in activity within the Country Park. story telling shelter.
Fig 5.30 Managing the Worting Wood Hazel Coppice could be part of the programme of activities at the Country Park. Cut Grow Harvest Coppicing Cycle - 7 to 20 years illustrated above.
Fig 5.31 Concept Sketch showing potential hop garden and existing farm buildings at Worting Farm
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 56 Vehicle access Grassland Meadow
Parkland
Car park
Bluebell Walk Woodland Play Potential new community and cafe building
Hub Potential larger car park
Worting Wood Productive (Hazel Coppice) Activity/ garden education garden
Meadow
Country Park green link (PRoW) Local Centre
Fig 5.32 Concept Sketch showing potential Country Park hub
Fig 5.33 Possible new hub building Fig 5.34 Cafe with outdoor seating Fig 5.35 Woodland activities and education
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 57 planting/fencing around sensitive features, sensitive lighting 5.5 Management of the Country Park to reduce predator effectiveness, etc.
Q Enhance public awareness and appreciation of the Site’s This section sets out the aims and objectives for the wildlife value. management of the Country Park. Aim 3: A sustainable site: As described in Section 3.6, and in more detail within Chapter 9 of the Environmental Statement (doc ref MSD12), some Q Maximise the sustainability of Site operations by minimising ecological mitigation is provided within the Country Park. Fig waste; 3. 4 illustrates the potential locations for habitat enhancement Q Promote a cost effective management strategy; (grassland and wood pasture) and for a farmland wildlife site with arable flora field margins. An element of ANGS could also Q Promote an ecological based approach to landscape be provided within the north west portion of the Country Park as management where possible, by minimising the amount described in Section 4.5 and as shown on fig 4.29. of herbicide used and where possible using mechanical methods of management in favour of machinery; The key objective of the Country Park management will therefore be to balance public access and recreation with nature Q Maintain a flexible landscape management approach which conservation and ecological sensitivities. A detailed long-term responds to landscape changes and user requirements; and management plan will be submitted at the reserved matters Q Continue to involve the community in the decision making stage; this will include the management of protected sites, process, in order to increase community participation in the habitats and species, landscape management operations and Country Park and its practical, day to day management. frequency, and visitor facilities and access arrangements. Prior to that detailed design stage, the following strategic aims and Governance of the Country Park objectives have been identified. The stewardship and governance of the Country Park has been Aim 1: A healthy, safe and secure site: subject to a feasibility study by Planning Solutions Consulting Ltd, on behalf of HCC and BDBC, which investigated future Q Maintain and facilitate public access and recreation, development options, funding opportunities and governance promoting healthier lifestyles and a variety of user arrangements of the Manydown Country Park. The emerging experiences for visitors; study (dated Sept 2016) reviews a number of options for its Q Maintain an attractive naturalistic environment for people to potential governance, which include:
walk through and enjoy. Q Management by HCC and BDBC (as joint landowner)
Q Enable a positive connection with existing neighbourhoods Q Charitable Trust and the adjoining countryside through the local network of footpaths; Q Community Interest Company Q Outsourcing via a private management contractor. Q Enhance access to and within the Site, through attractive site entrances, signage and secure perimeters where necessary; The emerging study recommends that HCC and BDBC maintain responsibility for the development and initial operational phase Q Ensure that the Site provides an increasingly valuable educational resource; of the proposed Country Park, in partnership with its preferred developer, whilst also emphasising a range of opportunities Q Establish and maintain health and safety procedures for the for involving third party partners in the voluntary and private management and maintenance of the Site complying with all sectors. statutory legislation and best practice. This approach would allow opportunities for local volunteers Aim 2: Conserve and enhance the ecological and landscape and interest groups to be involved in the ongoing governance value of the Site: and maintenance of the Country Park. This could help build Q Safeguard and enhance the natural assets of the Site strong links with the local community and provide benefits from wherever possible; the wealth of knowledge and experience held by local interest groups. This approach would also provide the flexibility to Q Maintain and enhance the connectivity of habitats both outsource the management of specific elements of the Country within the Site and to adjacent areas; Park such as the café to a private sector operator. Q Incorporate measures to reduce pressures on ecologically sensitive areas, such as cat predation, through dense
Manydown Landscape Strategy ©TEP JUNE 2018 58 ] 6.0 Summary
This landscape strategy document provides baseline information in relation to the Site, its surroundings and the landscape context. Analysis of the existing Site has been carried out together with a review of its constraints and opportunities.
A full review of relevant planning policy has been undertaken, and together with the findings of the Environmental Statement (doc ref MSD12), these have informed the landscape strategy.
In support of the current Proposed Development depicted on the parameter plans and illustrative masterplan, this document sets out a landscape strategy and a vision for the green infrastructure, providing a comprehensive package of open space, recreation and sporting facilities within the Proposed Development. Refinement of the landscape strategy will continue through the reserved matters stage when detailed landscape proposals will be prepared together with management plans for the open spaces, woodlands and the Country Park.
Fig 6.1 View of the Site looking east towards Basingstoke with the railway line in the foreground
©TEP JUNE 2018 Manydown Landscape Strategy 59