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Contents

TRUMPINGTON GREEN BELT APPRAISAL 3

Introduction 3

Methodology 3

SECTION ONE: BASELINE 5

Legislation and policy 5

National 5 NPPF – Green belts 5

Regional 6 Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Structure Plan, adopted October 2003 6 East of England Plan, adopted May 2008 6 East of England Plan, draft revision March 2010 7

Local 7 Cambridgeshire Local Plan, adopted July 2006 (saved policies) 7 South Cambridgeshire Local Development Framework Core Strategy, adopted January 2007 8 South Cambridgeshire Local Development Framework – Cambridge Southern Fringe Area Action Plan (AAP) adopted February 2008 8

Landscape resource 10 Topography 10 Access 10 Vegetation 11 Land use 12 Settlement and built form 12

Landscape character 13 Previous landscape assessments 13 Green belt studies and landscape character 14 Landscape character of the site and its setting 15 Landscape character of the site 17 Landscape value of the area of search 18

Site visibility 18 Zone of visual influence 18 Local zone 19 Intermediate zone 22 Distant zone 25

SECTION TWO: GREEN BELT ANALYSIS 28

Conclusions of previous green belt studies 28

Effect of future development on landscape and visual resources 30

Effect of development on character areas and viewpoints surrounding the area of search 30 Landscape character area 3C - Newton Chalk Hills representative viewpoint 12 – St Margaret’s Mount 30

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Landscape character area 3D – Wimpole Ridge Chalk Hills and representative viewpoint 13 – Chapel Hill 31 Landscape character area 4B – Granta Valley and representative viewpoint 8 – Westfield Road 31 Landscape character area 5A – Western Claylands and representative viewpoint 14 – North Barton & 15 – Coton Countryside Reserve 32

Effect of development on the character areas of the site and area of search 32 Landscape character area 4C – Rhee and Bourn Valley 32 Landscape character area 4Ai – Trumpington River Corridor 33

Potential effect on the green belt from intermediate viewpoints 34

Potential effects on the green belt on local viewpoints 34 Local viewpoints 1 & 2 34 Local viewpoint 3 – New site access off the Hauxton Road 35 Local viewpoint 4 – Hauxton Road and 35 Local viewpoint 5 – From M11 over bridge 36

Summary of the green belt appraisal 36

SECTION THREE: CONCLUSIONS 39 Qualities and special character to be retained 42 Future objectives 42

Figures

Figure 01 Landscape designations Figure 02 Topography Figure 03 Public rights of way Figure 04 Landscape character areas Figure 05 Local landscape character areas Figure 06 Visual envelope Figure 07 Zone of visual influence (ZVI) Figure 08 Representative viewpoint locations – Local Figure 09 Viewpoint 1 Figure 10 Viewpoint 2 Figure 11 Viewpoint 3 Figure 12 Viewpoint 4 Figure 13 Viewpoint 5 Figure 14 Viewpoint 6 Figure 15 Representative viewpoint locations – Intermediate and distant Figure 16 Viewpoints 7 & 8 Figure 17 Viewpoints 9 & 10 Figure 18 Viewpoints 11 & 12 Figure 19 Viewpoints 13 & 14 Figure 20 Viewpoints 15

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TRUMPINGTON GREEN BELT APPRAISAL

Introduction

1.1 The purpose of this report is to consider the extent to which the site at Trumpington Meadows contributes to the identified purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt, as redefined by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Structure Plan 2003 and incorporated into the Cambridge City Local Plan 2006 and the South Cambridgeshire Core Strategy 2007. These purposes and objectives are: • To preserve the unique character of Cambridge as a compact, dynamic city with a thriving historic core • To maintain and enhance the quality of its setting • To prevent communities in the environs of Cambridge from merging into one another and with the city 1.2 Having cognisance of the above, this report also considers whether areas of the site could be developed without significant detriment to those purposes.

Methodology

1.3 The methodology used is based on the Cambridge Green Belt Study, 2002 (commissioned by South Cambridgeshire District Council). The area of search (defined on figure 1) refers to the zone of potential new development within the green belt considered as part of the appraisal. The term site when used (also shown on figure 1) refers to the wider Trumpington Meadows scheme north of the M11.

1.4 This comprises an evaluation of the site against these purposes and objectives and of its capacity to accept change and an assessment of the potential effects on the landscape resources of the site and the potential effects of development on the character of Cambridge and its setting.

1.5 It is important to note that while green belts often contain areas of attractive landscape, the quality of the landscape is not relevant to the inclusion of land or its continued protection.

1.6 The methodology involves three sections. Section one provides baseline studies that set out factual baseline data and includes topography, landscape and cultural policy designations and an overall assessment of the landscape character.

1.7 Section two is the analysis of the purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt as set out above. The assessment of the character of the site and the surrounding area is based on the character areas as defined in the Cambridge Green Belt Study, 2002.

1.8 The third section identifies those qualities of the setting and special character that need to be safeguarded and what areas, if any, that do not meet the purposes and objectives of the green belt and therefore could accept change,

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or could accommodate development without significant detriment to the purposes of the green belt.

1.9 In order to assist with this evaluation process and gain an understanding of what areas of the surrounding landscape/townscape, including the site area, will be affected by any further development at Tumpington Meadows, GIS technology and Ordnance Survey 1:10,000 Landform Profile digital information were used to create a digital terrain model of the landscape within the study area. This was defined as 5 km from the centre of the site. The site was defined as the area to the north of the M11 as indicated on figure 01. This took into account both the existing vegetation set at 12m and broad areas of existing settlement at a height of 8 m (based upon 2 storey). The height of the approved development set at 14.5m above ground level was used to indicate the ‘worst-case’ scenario. Using this initial data a visual envelope was prepared indicating areas within the surrounding study area from which the consented development and the remaining undeveloped site can be seen as viewed at 1.8m above ground level.

1.10 In order to compare any changes in the extent of visibility that future development will create in the study area the height of the proposed development set between 11 and 14.5m was added to this model in order to provide a zone of visual influence (ZVI) of the development within the study area.

1.11 It should be noted that all woodland blocks within the model where given an average height of 12m above ground level and all broad areas of existing settlement a height of 8m above ground level. This model does not however, take account of individual trees, tree belts, copses, hedgerows, isolated built development, agricultural buildings or isolated landforms/structure such as motorway and railway embankments, cuttings, ditches and bridges, etc.

1.12 Using the ZVI the site and surrounding area was visited over a number days during the winter to obtain familiarity with the landscape and prepare a photographic record from viewpoints generally confined to the highway network and public rights of way at locations that have an inter-visual relationship with the area of search.

1.13 As a starting point the viewpoint locations were based on the 2006 landscape and visual chapter of the Tumpington Meadows environmental statement. Following site visits and using the ZVI a number of these views have been discarded, as they afforded no view of the area of search from their particular locations. New viewpoint locations have been added and include land within the site boundary and the country park south of the M11 that will become open to the public in the future.

1.14 All photographs unless otherwise indicated were taken with a 50 mm lens by employees of Terence O’Rourke Ltd. from areas of public access. These photographs have been included as they were processed without any modifications or enhancement using computer imagery. GPS reference points for all viewpoint locations have been included. All Ordnance Survey plan maps have been reproduced under licence held by Terence O’Rourke Ltd.

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Section one: Baseline

Legislation and policy

2.1 The appraisal of the site and the surrounding area has been undertaken by Terence O’Rourke Ltd, with reference to a number of documents (table 2.1). A qualified Landscape Architect, who is a member of the Landscape Institute, has carried out the green belt appraisal work. Landscape designations are shown on figure 01. Countryside Agency, 2002, Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2002, Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Structure Plan (adopted), 2003 South Cambridgeshire Local Development Framework Core Strategy, adopted January 2007 South Cambridgeshire Local Development Framework – Cambridge Southern Fringe Area Action Plan adopted February 2008 East England Plan 2008 and draft 2010 Cambridge city Local Plan adopted July 2006 Countryside Agency, 1999, Countryside Character Volume 6 East of England Cambridgeshire County Council, 1991, Cambridgeshire Landscape Guidelines Cambridge City Council, 2003, Cambridge Landscape Character Assessment Landscape Design Associates, 2002, Cambridge Green Belt Study Cambridge City Council, 1998, Trumpington Conservation Area Appraisal David Brown Landscape Design, 2002, Landscape Assessment of the Maris Centre, Trumpington Trumpington Local History Group, 2003, Trumpington Past and Present Historic map information from Cambridgeshire Records Office Cambridge Suburbs and Approaches, Cambridge City Council Cambridge City Council, Inner Green Belt Boundary Study, 2002 Table 2.1 : References and data sources

National

NPPF – Green belts 2.2 The principles of the green belt remain unchanged in today’s planning context. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that there are five purposes of green belt: “to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas; to prevent neighbouring towns from merging into one another; to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;

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to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and to assist in urban regeneration by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.” 2.3 It is the purpose relating to preservation of the setting and special character of historic towns that is of most relevance in Cambridge. The NPPF advises that well defined, long term boundaries should be established which could mean safeguarding appropriate areas between the urban edge and green belt for future development. The principle of the green belt is established through the structure plan and the boundaries defined in the local plan. The relevant development plan policies are addressed below.

Regional

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Structure Plan, adopted October 2003 2.4 The structure plan took forward the review of the green belt required by RPG6 and contained a number of policies relating to the green belt, which are generally addressed at a more detailed level by the local plans of Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire District councils. Policy P9/2a no longer remains in force following the approval of the East of England Plan by the SoS. Only policies P9/2b and P9/2c are saved. Policy P9/2b required local authorities to review the green belt boundaries to identify the boundaries of land to be released from green belt for long-term development needs. Policy P9/2c relates to the location and phasing of development land to be released from the green belt. It states that:

“Local plans will make provision for housing and mixed-use development on land to be released from the Green Belt in accordance with the principles set out in Policy P9/2b and in the following locations North of Newmarket Road; North of Cherry Hinton; Cambridge Airport; South and west of Addenbrooke’s Hospital; East and south-east of Trumpington; Between Huntingdon Road and Histon Road; Between Madingley Road and Huntingdon Road.” 2.5 Policy P7/4 relates to the consideration of the landscape character and the adoption of Cambridgeshire Landscape Guidelines by the county council. Policy P7/5 requires special consideration by local authorities of the urban fringe. The structure plan refers to the maintenance of a clear transition between settlement and countryside as well as to maintaining the character and enhancing the appearance of transitional areas.

East of England Plan, adopted May 2008 2.6 Policy SS7 covers green belt. It states that:

“The broad extent of green belts in the East of England is appropriate, and should be maintained. However, strategic reviews of green belt

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boundaries are needed in the following areas to meet regional development needs at the most sustainable locations.”

2.7 Cambridgeshire is not listed as one of these locations.

East of England Plan, draft revision March 2010 2.8 Policy SS7 covers green belt. This retains the same policy although the areas identified for a strategic review of the green belt again exclude Cambridgeshire.

2.9 Policy SS8: The Urban Fringe in both the East of England Plan, adopted May 2008 and the draft revision March 2010 states:

“Local authorities should work with developers and other agencies to secure the enhancement, effective management and appropriate use of land in the urban fringe through formulating and implementing strategies for urban fringe areas, working across administrative boundaries where appropriate.

Local development should: Ensure that new development in or near the urban fringe contributes to enhancing its character and appearance and its recreational and /or biodiversity value… Seek to provide networks of accessible green infrastructure linking urban areas with the countryside; and Set targets for the provision of green infrastructure for plan urban extensions” Local

Cambridge City Local Plan, adopted July 2006 (saved policies) 2.10 The extent of the green belt within Cambridge is defined under policy 4/1 Green Belt and on the proposals map. The policy states that:

“There is a presumption against development in the Cambridge Green Belt as defined on the Proposals Map”

“The purposes of the Green Belt are to: Preserve the unique character of Cambridge as a compact, dynamic City with a thriving historic centre; Maintain and enhance the quality of its setting; and Prevent communities in the environs of Cambridge from merging into one another and with the City.” “The Green Belt preserves the setting and special character of Cambridge including corridors which penetrate the built area and which are valuable for amenity and wildlife. It provides opportunities for outdoor sport and recreation. It is for those proposing development in the Green Belt to show the special circumstances to justify development. Proposals that will increase public access, improve

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amenity and enhance biodiversity will be supported. In considering any applications in the Green Belt regard will be had to relevant national planning policy guidance.”

2.11 Policies 4/9 and 4/10 protect the setting of ancient monuments and listed buildings. Policy 4/11 states that development that affects the setting of or has impacts on views into and out of conservation areas will not be permitted.

South Cambridgeshire Local Development Framework Core Strategy, adopted January 2007 2.12 Part of the site within the South Cambridgeshire district is covered by green belt policies. The extent of the green belt within South Cambridgeshire is defined under policy ST/1 and on the proposals map. This states that:

“A Green Belt will be maintained around Cambridge which will define the extent of the urban area. The detailed boundaries of the Green Belt will be established in Development Plan Documents.

The Cambridge Green Belt serves a number of purposes which are derived from Government guidance (PPG2) and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Structure Plan. The Green Belt keeps land open and free from development over a long period, which extends beyond the plan period, in order to give assurance that its boundaries will endure.

The Cambridge Green Belt is relatively small in extent. Its purposes are defined as: To preserve the unique character of Cambridge as a compact, dynamic city with a thriving historic centre; To maintain and enhance the quality of its setting; To prevent communities in the environs of Cambridge from merging into one another and with the city. In defining the Green Belt and the policies which should be applied to it, regard will be given to the special character of Cambridge and its setting which include: Key views of Cambridge from the surrounding countryside; A soft green edge to the city; A distinctive urban edge; Green corridors penetrating into the city; Designated sites and other features contributing positively to the character of the landscape setting; The distribution, physical separation, setting, scale and character of Green Belt villages; A landscape which retains a strong rural character.” South Cambridgeshire Local Development Framework – Cambridge Southern Fringe Area Action Plan (AAP) adopted February 2008 2.13 Policy CSF1 defines the overall vision for the Southern Fringe as:

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“as a modern, high quality, vibrant, innovative and distinctive urban extension of Trumpington, which will complement and enhance the character of the city. Development will secure a Countryside Enhancement Strategy comprising landscape, biodiversity and public access enhancements in the surrounding countryside, which will complement the existing landscape character of the area and protect and enhance the setting of Cambridge.”

2.14 The Southern Fringe AAP sets out a series of objectives under policy CSF2 that relate to the site. The key points of these are as follows: • “The site will be developed as an attractive feature in the landscape with which it is well integrated through a variety of edge treatments • As a compact and sustainable urban extension, well designed to a high quality, with a strong sense of local identity. • Trumpington West will be bounded by the Cambridge Green Belt, which will constrain further growth. • Trumpington West will connect the green spaces of Cambridge to the surrounding countryside, maintain a Green Corridor along the River Cam, and provide landscape, biodiversity and public access enhancements in the surrounding countryside. • To ensure that the development of Trumpington West enhances the character and setting of Cambridge • To ensure that Trumpington will not merge with any of the surrounding villages. • To provide opportunities for landscape improvements, outdoor recreation and public access to the open countryside around Trumpington • To create an appropriate setting for the expanded Trumpington and Addenbrooke’s Hospital, minimizing any adverse visual or landscape impacts on the surrounding area. • To enable the landscape in the Cambridge Southern Fringe to provide an attractive environment and to maximise benefits to wildlife. • To enable the landscape in the Cambridge Southern Fringe to contribute to the informal recreation needs of those living, working and visiting the area.” 2.15 CSF/4 discusses the setting of the Cambridge Southern Fringe and the revised Cambridge green belt. The revised green belt shown on the proposals map was to provide for the development at Trumpington West.

“The Green Belt will ensure that Cambridge remains physically separate from surrounding villages especially the closest villages of Great Shelford, Stapleford, Little Shelford, and Hauxton and maintain the character of Cambridge as a city surrounded by a necklace of villages.

The Green Belt boundary at Trumpington West abuts the western and southern built edge of the development. This development edge relates to the contours of the site, existing features associated with the previous use of the site, the enhanced River Cam corridor, the southern

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gateway to Cambridge and strategic views across the landscape towards Trumpington and Cambridge beyond. It provides a Green Belt boundary and community park that will protect and enhance the quality and purpose of the remaining Green Belt land.”

Landscape resource

2.16 The extent of the study area has primarily been determined by the extent of the visual envelope and ZVI (figures 06 and 07).

Topography 2.17 The topography to the south west of Cambridge is broadly flat and formed around the shallow valleys of the River Cam and its tributaries (see figure 02). Although the overall appearance is of a broadly flat landscape, subtle variations in the topography are important in defining visibility. From the River Cam, the topography rises very gently towards the east, south west and north west, forming a series of more distant higher knolls or ridgelines.

2.18 To the north east of Great Shelford, a wooded ridgeline extending from White Hill towards the Gog Magog Hills in the east is important in defining visibility within the landscape. Beyond this, the Gog Magog Hills rise to a level of approximately 75 m AOD.

2.19 A very gentle rise in the topography between the A1301 and the M11 in the vicinity of the Stone Hill Rugby Club limits the extent of visibility towards the site from this area.

2.20 Chapel Hill, which rises to a level of approximately 70 m AOD, lies to the south west of the M11. The higher ground between Barton and Coton lies to the north west of the site at a level of approximately 50 m AOD. Beyond Coton, the topography rises further to form an east-west ridgeline along which the A1303 runs just to the south of Madingley and the American cemetery.

2.21 The variation in topography within the site is subtle. Land rises from a lowest point of approximately 8.5 m AOD at the river in the south west to a highest point of approximately 15-16 m AOD to the north eastern corner of the site. A defined shoulder of higher land that extends southwards and wraps around the park and ride to the east is noticeable on site.

Access 2.22 Two site entrances via Hauxton Road will become the principal points of access into the approved Trumpington Meadows development. An existing entrance in the north via Grantchester Road, will provide limited access for users of the allotment and as an emergency route. A second existing access to the south of Waitrose has been closed to cars, but still accommodates buses that exit the Trumpington Park and Ride. Grantchester Road runs to the north of the site and links with Hauxton Road via Maris Lane and Church Lane.

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2.23 There are a number of public rights of way in the area surrounding the site and these are illustrated on figure 03. Generally, the current public right of way network is fragmented in the vicinity of the site.

2.24 Until the approval of development at Trumpington Meadows there were no public rights of way within the site. The approved scheme will see an extensive network of new footpaths and cycleways provided within the country park and agricultural land. These are also shown on figure 03. The existing public right of way from Grantchester Road to Byron’s Pool will be extended northwards at Byron’s Pool towards the formal recreation areas, eastwards towards the new housing development and southwards adjacent to the River Cam and around the new balancing lakes within the country park. A new footpath and cycle way will also cross over the M11 via an existing bridge and link to the A10 just north of Hauxton Mill, whereby it will pick up an existing public right of way to Hauxton.

Vegetation 2.25 Within the study area, areas of vegetation are generally associated with rivers and their tributaries or ridgelines/areas of higher land, such as the wooded ridgeline at Whitehill and parts of the Gog Magog Hills to the east. Field boundary hedgerows are limited (with few hedgerow trees) and those that do exist are generally closely cut with frequent gaps.

2.26 Existing vegetation to the north and west of the site restricts visibility of the area of search from areas beyond. This includes the dense belt of woodland that lies immediately adjacent to the western site boundary and encloses Byron’s Pool, the two blocks of woodland that lie to the west of the river limiting visibility towards the site from the M11 and the woodland within the grounds of Trumpington Hall (particularly Grantchester Road Plantation). Woodland and parkland trees within the grounds of Trumpington Hall and Anstey Hall are important landscape features within the historic core of Trumpington, which contribute to the landscape setting of the buildings and the approach to the village from the west.

2.27 A prominent belt of trees along the northern edge of the site adjacent to Hauxton Road, provides an important visual barrier to the road and adjacent houses. This tree belt includes a large number of Corsican Pines and conifers, which provide screening during winter.

2.28 There is a broken line of beech trees along Hauxton Road adjacent to the Park and Ride. There are new areas of new planting around the southern and western boundaries of the Park and Ride.

2.29 There is currently a lack of vegetation within the site, although extensive planting of new trees throughout the site including the country park is currently taking place and in line with the approved planning consent there are newly planted hedgerows demarking the approved new field pattern. A number of large existing trees are located along the riverbank and a section of disused railway to the far western corner of the site.

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2.30 South and west of the M11 motorway, areas of woodland are sparse, with only isolated copses and riparian tree species such as willow following the various tributaries of the River Cam and the Bourn Brook.

Land use 2.31 The former developed part of the site, known as the Maris Centre and originally located in the north eastern corner, has now been demolished and building works for the approved housing scheme have commenced.

2.32 Outside the site boundary the Robert Sayle warehouse, Trumpington church and Trumpington Park and Ride are currently the most prominent built features in the locality. The Robert Sayle warehouse has a maximum height of approximately 15 m. Despite its height it is only easily discernible in the landscape from local and intermediate views.

2.33 The consented development extends to some 30 ha with the remainder of the site comprising country park and open farmland (currently planted with an arable crop). New ground works have commenced along much of the northern and western areas of the site with the recently constructed balancing lake in the west and the landform and drainage for the formal recreation area in the north. There are currently heaps of spoil and topsoil temporarily stored along the southern boundary adjacent to the M11.

Settlement and built form 2.34 Trumpington originally developed as an agricultural settlement with Trumpington Church, Trumpington Hall and Anstey Hall at the heart. The formation of the village around the church was a typical feature of South Cambridgeshire villages. The historic core of the village remains today, although the conversion of some of the buildings (such as those of Church Farm converted to commercial use during the 1990s) and the proximity of more recent development has changed the character.

2.35 Road improvements during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries have resulted in the commercial centre of the village being concentrated along the High Street, with ribbon housing developments extending along the main roads and now linking Trumpington with Great Shelford and Stapleford to the south east. By the 1960s, the prominent Bidwells building and adjacent petrol station had been constructed. The residential extension of Trumpington to the east after the end of the Second World War is broadly suburban in character. Settlement also now extends along Trumpington Road, linking the village with the city centre to the north.

2.36 Larger scale development is located at the south-western fringe of Trumpington and is a mixture of commercial/retail development constructed in recent years. It includes the Robert Sayle warehouse, Trumpington Park and Ride and Waitrose supermarket.

2.37 To the south of the motorway, the settlement pattern is more rural in character with individual villages nestling at low levels surrounded by farmland.

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Landscape character

Previous landscape assessments 2.38 As part of the desktop assessment, previous classifications and evaluations of the landscape setting of the site have been studied. The purpose of this is to assess whether the site shares any of these common landscape characteristics and how typical or unique the site is within its landscape context. National 2.39 The Countryside Agency's Countryside Character - The character of England's natural and man-made landscape classifies the site and local landscape within Character Area 87 - East Anglian Chalk. This area has a simple character defined by large, open fields and a rolling topography. Woodlands are sparse and generally confined to hilltop copses and beech belts particularly alongside roads. Cereal production is extensive on the thin, poor and pale soils. Within the river valleys, the landscape is of a smaller scale with small areas of woodland.

2.40 As the site lies on the fringe of this area, the adjacent character area (Character Area 88 – Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Claylands) is also considered. The Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Claylands lie to the north west of the East Anglian Chalk. They are characterised by a gently undulating landscape of open arable fields. Woodland cover is sparse and isolated with willow and stands of poplar emphasising river corridors. Hedgerows to the east of the area are mixed in species but sparse and gappy. County 2.41 The Cambridgeshire Landscape Guidelines (1991)divide the county into a series of landscape character areas. Land to the south west of Cambridge lies on the fringe of Area 2 – Chalklands and Area 3 – Western Claylands.

2.42 The Chalklands, which lie south and east of Cambridge, are characterised by smooth rolling chalkland hills dissected by the gentle valleys of the Granta and Rhee, which converge and form the River Cam south of Cambridge. The landscape is of a broad scale with large fields covered by cereal crops. Hedges are low and mechanically trimmed with few trees. Small beech copses form features on some high points.

2.43 The Claylands character area, which lies to the west and north of Cambridge, is a gently undulating and large-scale arable landscape. Fields are open and hedgerows sparse and gappy. Woodlands are isolated and villages scattered. Church spires and towers form features on the skyline. Local 2.44 Land around the River Cam to the south west of Cambridge including the site falls within the River Corridor – Open Rural character area in the Cambridge Landscape Character Assessment (2003). The dominant River Cam lies within a shallow valley, which has a smaller scale compared to the nearby chalklands and claylands. The river is lined with pollarded willows with

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small woodland blocks. The area is contained by a gently rolling topography providing a subtle variation of levels. The gentle topography allows panoramic views towards the city from certain vantage points.

2.45 The Cambridge Landscape Character Assessment advises that development close to this area should ensure the character remains and views, habitats and the setting are protected. Opportunities given include the allocation of riverside zones to create new and appropriate habitats and the encouragement of links between city and countryside including riverside walks.

2.46 Land to the south and east of Trumpington (including to the east of Hauxton Road) is classified as the Rural Lowland Mosaic – Southern Fringe character area. This area is dominated by the buildings of Addenbrooke’s Hospital. In this transitional landscape between the chalk and claylands, cereal production occupies much of the large-scale, flat landscape. Transport routes bisect much of the area and hedgerows and trees are sparse.

2.47 The core of the old village of Trumpington is classified as a Residential – Ancient Village Core character area. Traditional features such as white painted walls and flint boundary walls are typical in the historic core of Trumpington. The landmark buildings of Trumpington Hall, Trumpington Church and Anstey Hall form a nucleus to the historic core.

2.48 The majority of Trumpington village is classified within the Residential - post 1900 suburbs character area, which is identified by rectilinear layouts and predominantly detached/semi-detached dwellings. The fringes of Trumpington village, including the Robert Sayle distribution centre, are classified as Residential – post war, which is characterised by a variety of dwelling styles, crescents and cul-de-sacs and large, featureless open spaces.

Green belt studies and landscape character 2.49 There have been various studies into the purpose and function of the Cambridge green belt. These studies have involved careful analysis of the landscape character and are used as reference material within this baseline section on character. In particular this report uses the character areas as defined in the Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 by Landscape Design Associates.

2.50 Cambridge Sub Region Study 2001 was commissioned in 2000 by the Standing Conference of East Anglian Local Authorities to meet the requirements of Regional Planning Guidance (RPG6) and to inform the review of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Structure Plan. This study was prepared Colin Buchanan and Partners. The study was to undertake a fundamental review of the Cambridge green belt. It found that the primary purpose of the Cambridge green belt was to preserve the special character of Cambridge and to maintain the quality of its setting. Much of this report and its findings were used as the basis for the Cambridge Green Belt Study (2002) produced by Landscape Design Associates.

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2.51 The Cambridge Green Belt Study assessed the factors that contribute to the setting of the city and identified the qualities to be safeguarded in order to create an overall vision for Cambridge. It breaks the countryside surrounding Cambridge into a series of different landscape areas, each exhibiting similar key characteristics. Within the 5km study area there are nine of these character areas, as shown on figure 04. Based upon the proceeding desktop studies and fieldwork we have summarised below the key characteristics of all the character areas that interact with the site. In order to be transparent in this appraisal we have noted the character areas that do not have any inter- visibility or interaction with the site and therefore remain unaffected by any possible future development or alterations to the green belt.

Landscape character of the site and its setting Landscape character area 2B – Eastern Fen Edge 2.52 This character area has no inter-visibility or interaction with the site and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken. Landscape character area 3B – Gog Magog Chalk Hills 2.53 This character area has no inter-visibility or interaction with the site and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken. Landscape character area 3C – Newton Chalk Hills 2.54 This landscape is formed by a small outcrop of chalk between the Granta and the Rhee. It is a typical chalk landscape of gently rolling hills used for arable agriculture. The landscape is open and vegetation is limited to shelterbelts and blocks of woodland, predominantly beech. Public access to the hills is limited, but there are good views from the obelisk on St. Margaret’s Mount. Settlements consist of a few houses and farms alongside roads.

2.55 The area is predominantly rural in character, although its northern edge is degraded somewhat by the M11 motorway. Conifer screen planting along the M11, whilst reducing the visibility of traffic, is intrusive and out of character in itself. There are no national landscape conservation designations, but the area falls within the green belt. Landscape character area 3D – Wimpole Ridge Chalk Hills 2.56 This is a chalk ridge on the south west tip of the Cambridge green belt. The area is characterised by its elevated and rolling topography and is strongly influenced by the parkland of Wimpole Hall to the west of the study area. The summit of the ridge is covered in dense deciduous woodland, whilst in the east of this character area the landscape is more open with limited vegetation cover. There are distant views of Cambridge from the ridge, the most famous of which is from Chapel Hill. The lime quarry and cement works degrade this area. Settlement within this character area is restricted to a few scattered farms.

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Landscape character area 4A – River Cam Corridor 2.57 This character area has no inter-visibility or interaction with the site and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken. Landscape character area 4B – Granta Valley 2.58 This area is low-lying and characterised by its gentle topography and by a more suburban feel than the surrounding countryside. To the east of Trumpington and the ribbon development along the A1301 Shelford Road, the landscape character is influenced by the suburban nature of the housing. Addenbrooke’s Hospital is a dominant feature within views across this area. The railway line, which runs on an embankment across this area, also has an effect on the quality of the landscape, and trains frequently pass on this generally open section of track. The wooded ridgeline between White Hill and Magog Down is important in controlling visibility within this landscape. It is particularly important in limiting visibility towards the site from the east.

2.59 The landscape between Little Shelford and Great Shelford, through which the River Cam or Granta passes, is particularly attractive. Closer to the site, the landscape can feel somewhat exposed as a result of the reduction in vegetation cover. Landscape character area 4C – Rhee and Bourn Valley 2.60 The site falls within this landscape character area, which lies to the south west of Cambridge and straddles the M11 and Hauxton Road. This landscape is characterised by the very gently undulating topography in which arable land extends close to the edge of the River Cam (or Rhee) and Bourn Brook. A series of subtle ridgelines give an overall impression of a broad, flat landscape within the wider scene, but are important in controlling visibility within the local landscape. Extensive views are available from these higher areas of land. From the lower lying areas, the open ridgeline often forms the skyline. Rows of pollarded willows identify the line of the river.

2.61 The area has a strong rural character, with small and isolated settlements. The radio telescopes are prominent in views. Arable farming and consequential removal of hedgerows and pollarded willows have degraded the river landscape. Landscape character area 5A – Western Claylands 2.62 These are found to the west of Cambridge and are characterised by open arable fields and mature vegetation, including deciduous woodland on ridge tops and hedgerows along routes and field boundaries. There are some distant views of Cambridge from high points, the majority of which are screened during the summer by vegetation. Just beyond the American Cemetery, on an important approach into the city, is a key elevated view of Cambridge. The area contains scattered villages and farmsteads.

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Landscape character area 6A – Cambridge Airport 2.63 This character area has no inter-visibility or interaction with the site and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken.

Landscape character of the site 2.64 Using the information prepared for the landscape and visual chapter of the environmental statement 2006 as part of the approved planning application for development at Trumpington Meadows we have used the same character area breakdown for the site itself and its immediate surroundings. The boundaries of the existing character areas illustrated in figure 04 have been refined as illustrated in figure 05. The key characteristics of these additional areas are summarised below. Unless there is a defined land use (such as the Park and Ride), there is rarely a definite boundary between landscape character areas. Therefore, the edges to most of these areas are not precise and should be read as indicative. Landscape character area 4Ai – Trumpington River Corridor 2.65 The influence of the Trumpington river corridor does not extend far from the riverbanks due to the extent of woodland and close proximity of the arable land that is in the process of being landscaped as part of the approved Trumpington Meadows country park. Although the site lies adjacent to the river, direct access is not currently possible due to the presence of perimeter chainlink fencing, but this will eventually be removed in part as part of the overall landscape scheme for the Trumpington Meadows country park. Presently there are only glimpsed views from the existing footpath across the old arable fields (presently under construction of the country park) towards the large Robert Sayle warehouse and park and ride.

2.66 The more urban nature of the roads, such as A1309 Hauxton Road and A10 Cambridge Road, results in a greater volume and speed of traffic and also has an influence on the wider landscape character. Trumpington Church is visible on the skyline in some views from this area. Views of the river itself are limited. Landscape character area 4Ci – Historic Parkland (Trumpington Hall and Anstey Hall) 2.67 While this character area does have a degree of interaction with the area of search, future development or revision to the green belt to the south would have no further effect over and above those associated with the consented development at Trumpngton Meadows, and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken. Landscape character area 7 – Trumpington Historic Core 2.68 While this character area does have a degree of interaction with the area of search future development or revision to the green belt would have no further effect over and above those associated with the development at Trumpngton Meadows and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken.

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Landscape character area 8 – Trumpington Meadows 2.69 This area is already under construction in accordance with the existing planning approval for Trumpington Meadows therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken. Landscape character area 9 – Trumpington Park and Ride 2.70 While this character area does have a degree of interaction with the site future development or revision to the green belt would have no further effect than the development that has already been approved under the current proposals at Trumpngton Meadows and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken. Landscape character area 10 – Post 1900 Development 2.71 While this character area does have a degree of interaction with the site future development or revision to the green belt would have no further effect than the development that has already been approved under the current proposals at Trumpngton Meadows and therefore no further appraisal has been undertaken.

Landscape value of the area of search 2.72 The area of search is not recognised nationally or internationally for its landscape value. It is recognised locally for its importance in preserving the setting of Cambridge as a historic city through the green belt designation. The wildlife value of the River Cam is locally recognised by its designation as a CWS and by the designation of Byron’s Pool as an LNR and CiWS.

2.73 The wider site will have local value in terms of biodiversity and recreation once the approved country park has been implemented as part of the approved scheme at Trumpington Meadows. This country park also contains a series of new footpaths and public rights of way that will connect with the footpath presently ending at Byron’s Pool.

Visibility of the area of search

2.74 The extent and nature of the existing views of the area of search has been appraised and typical viewpoints established. The viewpoint locations used have been based on the 2006 landscape and visual chapter of the Trumpington Meadows environmental statement. Following site investigation to verify the visual envelope and ZVI we have only appraised viewpoints that have a view of the area of search. Out of the 27 representative viewpoint used in the Tumpington Meadows environmental statement only 15 have been used in this green belt appraisal as well as two new viewpoints. Figures 08 and 15 show the location of these representative viewpoints.

Zone of visual influence 2.75 The zone of visual influence of development within the area of search is illustrated in figure 07. The ZVI illustrates the ‘worst case’ based on

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topography, urban areas and woodland blocks. The visual envelope indicates the area from which the site and consented scheme can be viewed. The ZVI of the area of search is based on placing development set at between 11 and 14.5m high to the south of the approved scheme. As can be seen the extent of visibility does not alter much from that produced by the consented scheme. This, in part, is due to topography with the area of search lying within lower land.

2.76 It is important to note that the data used to create both the ZVI and the visual envelope was basic Ordnance Survey Landform Profile tiles, providing digital records of the existing landform on a 10 m grid. Heights of woodland blocks and development areas were added to the model to provide greater accuracy. A height of 12m was added for woodland and 8m for development. This model does not take account of all development, isolated buildings and structures, copses, hedgerows, wind belts or lines of trees along watercourses. Equally, it does not pick up topographic changes such as ditches, embankments etc.

2.77 It should therefore be recognised that both the visual envelope and the ZVI are simply diagrammatic tools that show an indicative projected visual splay. These were taken into the study area and tested in the field. It is significant that through site work it has be confirmed that due to intervening vegetation, minor changes to topography and isolated built development not picked up in the model, the extent of the true ZVI would be greatly reduced.

Local zone 2.78 Local views are classified as those at a distance of up to 1 km from the centre of the site. They are generally from areas immediately adjacent to the site including roads and the landscape to the west of the river. See figure 08. Views from the north 2.79 Views of the site are restricted by the woodland of Grantchester Road Plantation, the woodland associated with Byron’s Pool and the River Cam, and the buildings of the historic village core. Visibility is generally limited to broken views towards the large-scale buildings of the Robert Sayle warehouse from Grantchester Road, the Byron’s Pool LNR (and associated car park areas). The following are typical views from public areas. Viewpoint 1 – GPS reference 543826, 254837 2.80 This view looking to the east, is from the public footpath at the entrance to the Byron’s Pool LNR and is taken at a ground level of approximately 10 m AOD (figure 09). The Robert Sayle warehouse and planting around the Park and Ride are prominent in this view at present, through the chainlink fence, with recent earthworks and spoil heaps visible to the foreground at the location of the recently demolished greenhouses and associated buildings or from the ongoing ground works for the country park. On completion of the approved scheme a new high quality residential development edge with integrated landscape treatment will be visible across the intervening informal grassland and formal recreation areas of the country park. Views of

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Grantchester Road and the buildings of Anstey Hall Farm are broken by surrounding vegetation. Viewpoint 2 – GPS reference 543714, 254619 2.81 This view looking to the east is from a private track within the site adjacent to Byron’s Pool that will be representative of the views from the extended public footpaths and cycleway through the country park once completed. It is taken at a ground level of approximately 10 m AOD (figure 10). The Robert Sayle warehouse and the planted bund around the park and ride form the prominent built features in this view at present along with the earthworks and spoil heaps visible at the location of the recently demolished greenhouses and associated buildings and ongoing ground works for the country park. Once the approved housing development has been completed built development will be closer to the viewer, with new two storey development visible along what will be the edge of the country park, rising to four storey. Looking towards the south east area of this view, the light columns along the A1309 Hauxton Road and junction 11 of the M11 are clearly visible breaking the skyline. Views from the east 2.82 The broadly flat and low lying topography means views of the site are generally limited to the Hauxton Road adjacent to the site. This is especially true where the open boundary between the site’s southern tip and the Park and Ride affords open views of the external areas of the site, the Robert Sayle building and the Park and Ride. Viewpoint 3 – GPS reference 544151, 253937 2.83 This view is taken from the newly constructed site access off the Hauxton Road at the end of the existing track to the recently demolished Shepherd’s Cottage (figure 11). It is taken at a ground level of approximately 19 m AOD and forms a panorama looking to the north at the Park and Ride site and south to junction 11 of the M11. The Robert Sayle warehouse is almost completely screened from this location by the earth modelling and young woodland planting surrounding the Park and Ride. The central part of this panorama looking directly west is over arable fields and the newly planted hedgerows, recent earth modelling of the county park construction, with the distant vegetation along the River Cam breaking the skyline. The remainder of this view has a prefabricated site office and new semi mature tree planting in the foreground concentrated round the new site entrance. Traffic along the M11 and the lighting columns associated with the M11 road junction are clearly visible. The higher ridgeline beyond Haslingfield, Harlton and Little Eversden forms the distant skyline to the south west. Upon completion of the approved scheme new residential development will occupy the immediate foreground, with up to four storey buildings extending along the line of the existing track and wrapping around the Park and Ride and Robert Sayle warehouse.

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Views from the south 2.84 Views from the south are predominately from the Hauxton Road, junction 11 and from the M11. There are also views further south via the over-bridge but these are summarised within the intermediate views as they lie outside of 1km. Viewpoint 4 – GPS reference 544078, 253561 2.85 This view is taken from Hauxton Road north of junction 11 of the M11 (figure 12). It is taken at a ground level of approximately 19 m AOD looking in a north western direction. This is one of the strategic viewpoint locations identified in the Cambridge Green Belt Study produced by LDA in September 2002 and forms a gateway to the south of Cambridge when leaving the M11.

2.86 The Robert Sayle warehouse and Park and Ride are presently extremely prominent in this view, together with Hauxton Road, which is dualled in this location. Trumpington Church is visible on the skyline and the vegetation alongside the river restricts views beyond. The view of the church will be lost following construction of the consented development at Trumpington Meadows. The Robert Sayle warehouse and Park and Ride degrade the setting of the church in this view. Housing along Shelford Road can be glimpsed across the farmland to the east of Hauxton Road.

2.87 Upon completion of the consented scheme there will be major changes over a large proportion of this view although the Hauxton Road will remain a prominent element. The new development with up to four storeys along its southern edge will wrap around the park and ride. Farmland and the new hedgerows will remain in the foreground. Viewpoint 5 – GPS reference 543548, 253847 2.88 This view is taken from the bridge over the motorway looking to the north, from a ground level of approximately 16 m AOD (figure 13). It will become a new commuter cycle route to the park and ride and Cambridge, for people living to the south at Hauxton and beyond. An extensive view across the site to the north of the motorway is available from this elevated location. The Robert Sayle warehouse, the park and ride and the flats of Bishops Court are dominant in the middle distance. Beyond the park and ride the Addenbrooke’s Hospital, including the new recently developed residential hospital extension, form the skyline to the west with the hoarding encompassing the new housing development north of the A1301 clearly visible. The vegetation along the River Cam again limits the extent of visibility beyond and Trumpington Church is an important feature on the skyline.

2.89 Upon completion of the approved scheme, farmland will remain in the immediate foreground separated into large fields by new hedgerows. The new balancing ponds and associated woodland planting will be visible adjacent to the motorway. The southern development edge will be visible beyond the existing track leading to the demolished site of Shepherd’s

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Cottage. The new footpath/cycleway will be visible in the centre of the view. At completion, the effect of the new vegetation will be limited. While the approved development will result in major changes within the view, because of the wide extent of visibility and distance from the new development, these changes will form a small part of the overall scene. The prominence of Trumpington Church from this elevated position will be lessened by the new development seen in front of it, but the residential edge and varied landscape treatment with public pedestrian and cycle access will be an improvement to the existing harsh edge of the present built form created by the Robert Sayle warehouse. Views from the west 2.90 The majority of this zone is farmland within private ownership, including land owned by Trumpington Meadows Land Company. Views towards the area of search are restricted by vegetation associated with the river and Byron’s Pool. Open views across the site are available from the M11 motorway between the western corner of the site and the motorway over- bridge, where the M11 then runs within a cutting. Viewpoint 6 – GPS reference 543133, 254719 2.91 This view is taken from the track between Grantchester and the M11 over- bridge to the west of the River Cam (figure 14). It is taken at a ground level of approximately 10 m AOD looking east. The vegetation along the River Cam dominates this generally rural view. This restricts visibility of much of the area of search from this location, except in the centre of the view where the more sparse vegetation allows glimpses of fields within the site beyond. Following completion of the consented scheme it is likely that only the new planting within the country park area will be glimpsed.

Intermediate zone 2.92 Intermediate views are classified as those at a distance between 1 km and 3 km from the centre of the site. The local topography and vegetation along the river are important in controlling the extent of visibility towards the site. See figure 15. Views from the north 2.93 Intermediate views towards the site from the north are limited due to the flat and low lying topography, areas of settlement and the extensive areas of woodland within the grounds of Trumpington Hall. From this zone, very limited views are available from areas south of Grantchester. Viewpoint 7 – GPS reference 543078, 255370 2.94 This view is taken from the public footpath south of Grantchester, looking to the south-east from a ground level of approximately 16 m AOD (figure 16). The vegetation along the River Cam dominates the view across open farmland. A building being constructed as part of the approved development and the very edge of the Robert Sayle building can be glimpsed through a break in the riverside vegetation just to the right of Manor Farm. A similar

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view may be available from the dwellings on the southern edge of Grantchester, in particular those to the south of Bridle Way. Once completed the new development will be barely visible and the area of search is for the most part completely screened.

Views from the east

2.95 The low-lying topography to the east of Trumpington and Shelford Road, and the extent of built development within this area, mean visibility of the site is limited. Viewpoint 8 – GPS reference 545188, 253427 2.96 This view is taken from the end of Westfield Road, looking to the north west from a ground level of approximately 17 m AOD (figure 16). This view is towards Hauxton Road, across farmland and the playing fields associated with the adjacent Shelford Rugby Club. The subtle rise in topography and managed hedgerows currently restrict views of the area of search from this location.

2.97 As the ground level falls away to the south east of the rugby club, visibility of the area of search is restricted. The area of search is not visible from the grounds of Shelford Cemetery due to a combination of topography and surrounding vegetation.

2.98 Following the completion of the approved development residential properties will extend the development edge southwards along Hauxton Road. From this location it may be possible to see the tops of the new development. Similar, indirect views are likely to be available to residential properties on the northern side of Westfield Road and the western side of Shelford Road and to users of the adjacent rugby club. Views from the south 2.99 The vegetation along the River Cam and the subtle variation in topography defines the extent of visibility from this zone. There is an open view towards the site including the exposed edge of the Robert Sayle building from the northbound carriageway of the M11, once past the vegetated corridor of the River Cam north of Hauxton. A similar view can be seen from the A10 Cambridge Road until the topography falls at Hauxton Mill. This view is summarised below: Viewpoint 9 – GPS reference 543318, 252919 2.100 This view is taken adjacent to the A10 Cambridge Road, looking north at a ground level of approximately 15 m AOD (figure 17). An open view is available across farmland towards the exposed edge of the Robert Sayle building and Trumpington Park and Ride, along with the hoarding to the new residential development north of the A1310 and the signage to Trumpington

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Meadows. There is a clear view of Addenbrooke’s Hospital, especially the new residential building beyond, all of which are prominent in this view. Trumpington Church is visible on the skyline. These elements including the busy Cambridge Road are urbanising features.

2.101 Following the completion of the approved scheme the new residential development edge will be visible in the middle distance. Much of the land in the area of search lies within a visible shadow, screened by the earthworks along the M11. Viewpoint 10 – GPS reference 543237, 253217 2.102 This view is taken from within the southern area of the country park at the location of what will be the new cycle/ pedestrian link leading to the bridge over the M11, looking to the north east (figure 17). It is taken at a ground level of approximately 10 m AOD. The view across farmland has a rural character. The site to the north of the M11 is clearly visible. Trumpington Church is visible along with Anstey Hall and the woodland associated with Trumpington Hall to the far north. In the mid ground the Robert Sayle building, the Park and Ride, the hoarding to the new residential development north of the A1310 and the signage to Trumpinton Meadows are clearly visible, as is the temporary site hut at the new southern site access. Beyond these features Addenbrooke’s Hospital breaks the skyline as do the elevated lighting columns and traffic coming off junction 11 of the M11. Lorries travelling along the M11 in the centre of the view are also clearly visible.

2.103 Following the completion of the approved scheme the new residential development edge will be seen in the middle distance. Again, in this view form the south the land in the area of search is partly screened. Views from the west 2.104 Subtle variations in topography and concentration of riverside vegetation again limit the extent of visibility from this area. Public access is limited to Cantelupe Road (and the bridleway that continues northwards from this road) There are no views of the area of search from the bridleway that runs eastwards from Haslingfield. Viewpoint 11 – GPS reference 541292, 252984 2.105 Used by walkers, cyclist, horse riders and residents of Cantelupe Farm, this view is taken from Cantelupe Road looking to the north east towards Cambridge from a ground level of approximately 20 m AOD (figure 18), where the general focus is on the landscape. The exposed western edge of the Robert Sayle building and Trumpington Park and Ride are clearly visible within this wider view across generally flat farmland. Together with Addenbrooke’s Hospital, including the new recently developed residential hospital extension, which is prominent on the skyline, the buildings form a discordant element within this broadly rural scene. Trumpington Church is visible on the skyline.

2.106 The approved scheme will form a small but identifiable part of the wider scene. Upon completion, the proposed development will increase the extent

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of built form within the view, although the height will not break the skyline and this new development will still form only a small part of the overall scene. The area of search will form a small part of the overall view.

Distant zone 2.107 Distant views are classified as those at a distance between 3 km and 7 km from the centre of the site. Visibility is generally confined to knolls of higher land or ridgelines that allow panoramic views across the wider landscape towards Cambridge. The site forms a small part of this wider scene. It should be noted that from the distant viewpoints the site can often be totally obscured because of the weather. Views from the east 2.108 The wooded ridgeline at White Hill restricts visibility in the direction of the site from much of this zone. From knolls of higher land where public access is available, such as Magog Down and Beechwood LNR, panoramic views across the southern edge of Cambridge are available, although it is not possible to clearly identify the site. Similar panoramic views may also be available from the private grounds of the Gog Magog Golf Course, in which it may be possible to see the site. The ground levels of the golf course prevent views in the direction of the site from the public right of way that lies to the north. Views from Wandlebury Country Park are restricted due to the extent of woodland within. Therefore, there are no locations where the site can be clearly distinguished and for this reason there are no long distance representative viewpoints from the east. Views from the south 2.109 Panoramic views in the direction of the site are limited to the higher ground around St Margaret’s Mount. The following is a typical public view. Viewpoint 12 – GPS reference 544311, 250837 2.110 This view is taken from the public footpath leading to the obelisk at St Margaret’s Mount, looking north from a ground level of approximately 30 m AOD (figure 18). In this panoramic winter view, the coniferous vegetation lining the motorway embankments is a dominant part of the scene. The grey Robert Sayle building is only just defined behind the white hoarding to the housing development north of the A1310 that is far more easily discernible in the distance beyond the village of Hauxton. Addenbrooke’s Hospital also forms a prominent element on the skyline. A line of large trees allow only glimpsed views of the site to the south of the Robert Sayle building, which in summer will be completely obscured. These buildings, and the influence of the motorway degrade the quality of this view.

2.111 Upon completion of the approved scheme the development is unlikely to be distinguished between the new development north of the A1310, that from this location will occupy a far greater extent of the view. All this development however, forms only a very small, distant part of this view.

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Views from the west and north-west 2.112 Panoramic views across the edge of Cambridge are available from the south west at Chapel Hill, and to the north of Barton and south of Madingley Cemetery. From these locations the site forms a small part of a much wider view. Occasional glimpses of the Robert Sayle building are also possible from areas north of Harlton and Haslingfield. From public locations such as the A603, Harlton Road and Barton Road, these views are generally transient and limited to glimpses of the Robert Sayle building through gaps in the winter vegetation. As the Robert Sayle building forms a small part of these transient views, it may not be noticeable to the general viewer. The Lords Bridge radio telescopes are dominant elements in these views. Similar views may be possible from residential properties on the northern and eastern fringes of Haslingfield. The following are typical public views from the elevated locations. Viewpoint 13 – GPS reference 540190, 251549 2.113 This view is taken from Chapel Hill to the south of Haslingfield (figure 19). It is taken from a ground level of approximately 65 m AOD looking north east. This location is approximately one of the strategic viewpoints identified in the Cambridge Green Belt Study produced by LDA in September 2002.

2.114 From this elevated location a panoramic view across the wider landscape towards the edge of Cambridge is available. The Robert Sayle building, the ongoing construction earthworks for the approved country park and housing development, the Park and Ride as well as the farmland to the south are visible element of this view. Of greater prominence is Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the white hoarding to development east of the Hauxton Road. Trumpington Church is just visible and the fields within the site.

2.115 Upon completion of the approved scheme the overall extent of the built form will be greater than existing. The open farmland within the site will be reduced. New small-scale residential buildings will wrap around the larger scale existing Robert Sayle building and Park and Ride site and therefore reduce the mass of these larger elements within this view.

2.116 The consented development edge will appear relatively exposed, due to the limited effect of the new planting which is in the process of being implemented on site. Although the extent of consented built form within the site will be greater than existing, it will still form a small part of a wider panoramic view. The historic core of Cambridge remains unaffected. Viewpoint 14 – GPS reference 540126, 257033 2.117 This view is taken from the public right of way to the north of Barton, looking to the east towards Cambridge, across the exclusion zone for the adjacent military rifle range and Coton Countryside Reserve (figure 19). It is taken at a level of approximately 50 m AOD.

2.118 The northern corner of Robert Sayle building is only barely visible with the remainder of the site completely screened by the juxtaposition of existing

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vegetation and topography. It is unlikely that the consented development will be discernible from this distance. Viewpoint 15 – GPS reference 541065, 257860 2.119 This view is taken from the public right of way at the panoramic location within the Coton Countryside Reserve to the east of the military rifle range (figure 20). It is taken at a level of approximately 45 m AOD. The top of Robert Sayle building and part of the construction for the approved scheme to the north are just about visible where there is a slight drop in the height of the intervening tree cover. The remainder of the site is completely screened by the juxtaposition of existing vegetation and topography. Upon completion a small percentage of the new housing at Trumpington Meadows may possibly be seen in front and behind the Robert Sayle building. From this distance the site forms a small part of a much wider scene.

2.120 In all but a few of the viewpoints determined as part of this appraisal, the area of search is rarely seen in the context of Cambridge beyond. Where these more panoramic distant views exist, development in the area of search is likely to barely distinguishable from existing and consented development in the locality. It is also significant that of the four strategic viewpoints identified in the Cambridge Green Belt Study produced by LDA in September 2002, only two would be affected by development in the area of search. Night-time views 2.121 A night-time appraisal similar to that undertaken as part of the 2006 landscape and visual chapter of the Trumpington Meadows environmental statement would be undertaken as part of any future planning application. In this original assessment the lighting from the existing built area, including greenhouse lighting and building-mounted SON floodlighting was intrusive and visible in views. These buildings have now been demolished as part of the approved scheme. Nevertheless, from the south, the site is still seen in the context of lighting associated with Trumpington and Cambridge. Lighting along the A1309 and the floodlighting at Shelford Rugby Club also remain intrusive in views.

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Section two: Green belt analysis

Conclusions of previous green belt studies

3.1 The Cambridge Sub Region Study 2001 by Colin Buchanan and Partners concluded that the primary purpose of the Cambridge green belt was to “preserve the special character of Cambridge and to maintain the quality of its setting”. The study defined ‘special character’ as:

“in addition to the city’s historic core and associated university colleges (it) comprises: The green corridors and edges connecting the city with the countryside, and The separation between settlements to ensure their clear identity” 3.2 It defined ‘setting’ as comprising: “Views of the city, and The placement and character of villages surrounding the city and the interface between the city and the countryside.” 3.3 The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 by Landscape Design Associates used much of the findings to the Buchanan study as a basis for its analysis. In particular the brief given to Landscape Design Associates was:

“ to focus on the fourth purpose of including land in green belts as set in PPG which is “To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns.”

3.4 The review started with a vision for the city, analysed the townscape characteristics of Cambridge and considered how the landscape characteristics of the Cambridge green belt contributed to the unique character and setting of the city. The study identified a number of qualities that contribute positively to the setting and special character of Cambridge, are essential to green belt purposes and therefore should be safeguarded. Some of these qualities relevant to this study are listed below: • “A city focussed on the historic core • Short and/or characteristic approaches to Cambridge from the edge of the city • Key views of Cambridge from the landscape • Significant areas of distinctive and supportive townscape and landscape • Topography providing a framework to Cambridge • A soft green edge to the city • Green fingers into the city • Long distance footpaths and bridleways providing links between Cambridge and the open countryside • Elements and features contributing positively to the character of the landscape setting • The distribution, physical separation, setting, scale and character of necklace villages

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• A city set in a landscape which retains a strong rural character” 3.5 Having split the surrounding Cambridge landscape into a series of landscape character types the study went on to indicate the townscape and landscape roles and functions as indicated on its drawing: 1641LP/06. These key areas are: • Visually cohesive historic core • Distinctive townscape / landscape • Supportive townscape / landscape • Connective townscape / landscape • Visually detracting townscape / landscape • Outer rural areas of the green belt 3.6 Those pertaining to the site are defined in the key as:

“Distinctive townscape / landscape

These are areas defined as specifically recognisable and distinctive to the city. They include townscape and landscape components such as quintessential views, the interactions of buildings forming spaces or the setting to local events, landform, backdrops to the city, areas of rich biodiversity, historic approach routes and landmarks of positive character….”

“Supportive townscape / landscape

These are areas of townscape / landscape which support the character of the historic core and areas distinctive to the city. They provide the backdrop and ambience, and bolster the sense of place of the city and its approaches.”

“Connective townscape / landscape

These are areas of townscape / landscape which are an integral part of the city and its environs, but lack individual distinction, or do not play a significant contribution to the setting of the city.”

“Visually detracting townscape / landscape

These are areas or elements which detract from the distinctive and special character of the city and its’ setting.”

“Outer rural area of the green belt

These are areas of townscape / landscape from which distinct views of the city are scarce or absent. The function of this landscape is in providing a backdrop to views of the city, and in providing a setting for approaches to connective, supportive and distinctive areas of townscape and landscape.”

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Effect of future development on landscape and visual resources

3.7 Within the previous section we summarised those character areas, as defined by the Cambridge Green Belt Study, 2002, that share an interaction with the area of search and identified viewpoints from where the area of search is visible.

3.8 The objectives of the Cambridge green belt as redefined by the Cambridge and Peterborough Structure Plan 2003 and incorporated into the Cambridge City Local Plan 2006 and the South Cambridgeshire Core Strategy 2007 are listed below. Using these and making reference to the landscape role and functions as identified in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002, we will consider whether the area of search could be developed and if so what effect this would have with regards to the purposes and objectives on these character areas and views. • To preserve the unique character of Cambridge as a compact, dynamic city with a thriving historic core • To maintain and enhance the quality of its setting • To preserve communities in the environs of Cambridge from merging into one another and with the city 3.9 In order to simplify this process of analysis we have appraised the character areas and views from within these character areas together, starting with those around the area of search before concentrating on the character areas that include the site itself and the more localised views.

Effect of development on character areas and viewpoints surrounding the area of search

Landscape character area 3C - Newton Chalk Hills representative viewpoint 12 – St Margaret’s Mount 3.10 The inter-visibility with this character area and the area of search is low and confined to its northernmost edge. Identified as being within the outer rural area of the green belt in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002, it provides a setting for the approaches to connective, supportive and distinctive areas. The approved developments of both Trumpington Meadows and the eastern side of the Hauxton Road will form only a small change to the overall view which at present already has elements of urbanised built forms such as the Robert Sayle building, Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the M11.

3.11 Further development south and west of the approved scheme is unlikely to be perceived due to distance and the screening effect of either the approved development itself or the intervening vegetation. The overall character and quality of the setting to Cambridge would remain unaltered. Equally, any future development would still be viewed separately from the surrounding settlements and therefore not appear to be merging into one another or with the city.

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Landscape character area 3D – Wimpole Ridge Chalk Hills and representative viewpoint 13 – Chapel Hill 3.12 The visible open farmland within the site, which contributes to the setting of the church in the existing view, will be reduced by the approved development. While future development to the south of the approved scheme will further erode the area of arable fields, the view of the church will already have been screened for the most part by the consented scheme. There will still remain a pronounced and visible green swathe around development. Whilst there are distant views of Cambridge, from this distance the overall increase in the built extent would appear as a very minor alteration that would still form only a small part of a wider panoramic view.

3.13 With regards to The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002, from this location the area is within connective landscape that “…does not play a significant contribution to the setting of the city”. Whilst there are distant views of the historic core the setting of Cambridge will remain intact. The intrinsic character of this area as well as the remaining purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt are not considered to be altered by any future development in the area of search.

Landscape character area 4B – Granta Valley and representative viewpoint 8 – Westfield Road 3.14 This area is low-lying and characterised by its gentle topography and by a more suburban feel than the surrounding countryside. This suburban influence is emphasised by the ribbon development along the A1301 Shelford Road, with Addenbrooke’s Hospital further influencing this characteristic as a dominant feature within views across this area. While future development in the area of search will to a small degree be visible the intrinsic character of this character area will remain unaltered.

3.15 From viewpoint 8 at the end of Westfield Road, looking to the north west, the topography and existing hedgerows currently restrict views of the area of search. The approved development will see residential properties extended southwards along Hauxton Road. From this location it is likely that the tops of the houses in the consented development will be vivible. Any future development further south beyond the approved built edge will therefore also be visible. Similar indirect views are also likely to be available to residential properties on the northern side of Westfield Road and the western side of Shelford Road and to users of the adjacent rugby club.

3.16 Development in this view will add an urban element into what at present is a relatively rural view. This new urbanising element will not be necessarily uncharacteristic in this character area. Equally, this part of character area 4B lies within landscape that as indicated in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 has a connective role and function and does “…not play a significant contribution to the setting of the city”. It is concluded that new development within the area of search will not materially affect the purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt, especially when considered in the

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context of the consent development at Trumpington Meadows and the wider southern fringe.

Landscape character area 5A – Western Claylands and representative viewpoint 14 – North Barton & 15 – Coton Countryside Reserve 3.17 This area is characterised by its ridge and valley profile and is rural and peaceful in character. Views of the area of search from this character area are distant and limited to the ridgelines. With regards to the role and function of this character area as defined in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002, it is split between a small area of supportive landscape to the north of Coton, its eastern section within connective landscape and the remainder within rural areas of the green belt. The only views of the area of search from within this character area are located on the ridgeline north of Barton and from within the Coton Countryside Reserve. From these locations the landscape function and role is connective. This is a landscape that while forming an integral part of the city and its environs, lacks individual distinction and does “not play a significant role in the setting of the city”.

3.18 While from both viewpoints a small part of the Robert Sayle building is visible and therefore a small area of the approved development will be too, the intervening topography, distance and existing vegetation make it almost impossible to discern further development to the south of the approved development edge. Further development in the area of search will have no effect on the character of this area and the purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt will remain uncompromised.

Effect of development on the character areas of the site and area of search

Landscape character area 4C – Rhee and Bourn Valley 3.19 This character area includes the area of search and wider site. It is designated as green belt and the River Cam as a CWS. The large-scale, open character of this agricultural landscape is typical of the wider contextual setting and is not valued for its rarity, although its proximity to the river is of value. The quality of much of this area is degraded by the intensive agricultural use right up to the river edge and the visual impact of the exposed development edge of the Robert Sayle building and Park and Ride. Vegetation cover is often limited, and the character of the landscape can be somewhat exposed.

3.20 With regards to the role and function of this character area as defined in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002, it is split mainly between connective and supportive landscape. The connective area is located to the west of the M11 and to an area immediately surrounding junction 11 of the M11. (Any future development at Trumpington Meadows would predominately be located in this connective part of the site’s character area). The supportive area covers the remainder of the site to the east of the M11.

3.21 While the connective landscape is identified as playing an integral part of the city and its environs it does not play a significant role to the setting of the city. The supportive landscape in the area of search does “provide the

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backdrop, ambience, and bolster the sense of place of the city and its approaches”. It is particularly important at this location in separating the villages of Trumpington and Grantchester. It is also relevant to note that in the Cambridge City’s Inner Green Belt Boundary Study 2002 it was concluded that the area between Trumpington park and ride and the M11 (Areas 2 and 3) should be retained as Green Belt. As part of the subsequent detailed analysis work undertaken for the Trumpington Meadows outline application, it was agreed that a significant portion of this land could be released for development without harming the green belt. A proposed extension to Trumpington Meadows lies in the same character areas as that land previously released from the Green Belt.

3.22 The principal changes to this character area created by the approved development will be the creation of the new riverside community park along the eastern edge of the River Cam and a new development edge wrapping around the park and ride, extending development to the south and west. However, although the extent of development will increase, intrusive buildings that degrade the quality of the character area will be hidden and replaced with a high quality urban edge.

3.23 Further development in the area of search would be located further south from the approved built edge. However, the introduction of development in this location is not uncharacteristic within the wider setting and from many of the intermediate viewpoints, as described below, would be viewed in the context of the approved scheme with only a small visible change due to the development edge moved further south. There will be a reduction in the agricultural land to the south of the approved built edge but the country park and overall improvement in landscape resource, landscape character, ecological interest and public access created by the approved scheme will remain unaltered. It would be important that a green swathe of open landscape around any new development edge is maintained north of the M11 so as to retain a strong landscape setting on the approach to Cambridge along Hauxton Road and in views from the M11. Importantly, the unique character of Cambridge as a compact dynamic city will not alter by development extending approximately a further 150m further south beyond the consented development edge.

3.24 The visual separation between the villages of Trumpington and Grantchester will remain unaffected.

3.25 It is concluded that while the nature and layout of any future development will be critical in determining the effect on this character area, sensitive development in the area of search will not materially alter the intrinsic character of this area and the objectives and purposes of the Cambridge green belt will be uncompromised.

Landscape character area 4Ai – Trumpington River Corridor 3.26 The influence of the Trumpington river corridor does not extend far from the riverbanks due to the extent of woodland. Once completed the approved Trumpington Meadows country park will be located directly to the east of

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this character area. New footpaths will extend from Byron’s Pool, north towards new formal recreation areas, eastwards towards links with the approved development and south linking areas to the west of the M11 via the existing over bridge. Views of the consented development will be glimpsed through the wooded eastern boundary of this area where the new development envelops the park and ride and the Robert Sayle building. However, with the new planting within the country park and a new quality designed urban built edge the character of this area will be slightly improved.

3.27 New development further south from the approved built edge will be visible. However, it will appear in the context of the approved scheme. While a proportion of the proposed arable fields will be lost, the green swathe created around the development by the country park and remaining arable fields will appear unaltered and therefore the character of this area will remain uncompromised.

Potential effect on the green belt from intermediate viewpoints Intermediate viewpoint 9 – A10 Cambridge Road, Intermediate viewpoint 10 – Trumpington Meadows Country Park, Intermediate viewpoint 11 – Cantelupe Road Intermediate viewpoints 7 – South of Grantchester 3.28 From viewpoints 9, 10 and 11 the consented scheme will be visible wrapping around the Robert Sayle building and Park and Ride with a new residential development edge of up to four storeys along the southern edge in the middle distance in viewpoints 9 and 10 and as a smaller part of the overall scene from viewpoint 11. With regards to further development south of the approved edge, in viewpoint 11 it is doubtful this will be seen due to the intervening vegetation. Even with a degree of new development visible it is unlikely to alter the experience of the view with Addenbrooke’s Hospital still remaining the dominant feature on the skyline. In both viewpoints 9 and 10 any further development to the south of the approved built edge is unlikely to form any real change in the view.

3.29 From viewpoint 7, to the south of Grantchester, only the approved development will be glimpsed through a small gap in the existing vegetation where at present a small area of the Robert Sayle building is visible. New development will not be seen from this location.

Potential effects on the green belt on local viewpoints

Local viewpoints 1 & 2 3.30 Viewpoint 1 is from the car park to the Byron’s Pool LNR. Views of the site are afforded as glimpsed views through the vegetation along this area’s eastern boundary. From this viewpoint the consented development will be visible and the extent of new buildings will be greater than currently visible. New development south of the approved built edge will see development further south along the Hauxton Road, however this will be seen through glimpses in the vegetation and in the context of the approved scheme. It is unlikely to alter the experience of the view to any significant degree.

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3.31 Viewpoint 2 is located within the western edge of the approved country park. This view and similar views from the new approved pedestrian and cycleway routes, especially further south of this location, will see new development in the area south of the approved built edge. However, the integrity of the country park and the open arable fields to the south will remain. Development will extend further south along the Hauxton Road but it will be viewed in the context of the approved scheme. With the same level of quality design and integration of urban elements into the countryside along the new built edge, the overall effect on these views will be minimal.

Local viewpoints 3 – New site access off the Hauxton Road 3.32 Upon completion of the approved scheme new residential development will occupy the immediate foreground with up to four storey buildings extending along the line of the existing track and wrapping around the park and ride and Robert Sayle warehouse. Further new development will see new built form directly south of this location, where at present the prefabricated site hut is located. Views of new development towards the south west will be obscured by the approved built edge.

3.33 From this location, traffic is clearly visible travelling along the M11. The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 states that the traffic “detracts from the distinctive and special character of the city and its setting”. When viewed from this proximity the effect of further development is unlikely to greatly alter the defining characteristic of this view. The approved development will dominate the overall scene in exactly the same way as further development directly south of this location. It will screen traffic from the M11.

Local viewpoints 4 – Hauxton Road 3.34 Viewpoint 4 is from Hauxton Road, north of junction 11 of the M11, and forms what is termed in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 as an urban gateway to the south of Cambridge, and is classified as a strategic view. Although the historic core of Cambridge is not visible from this location, it affords views over both connective and supportive landscape and is important as a rural backdrop to one of the city’s approach roads. “From these viewpoints many of the qualities can be appreciated including the compact nature of the city, the rural landscape setting, the proximity and nature of surrounding villages, the green, treed appearance of much of the city and its urban/rural interface...”

3.35 Following the completion of the approved scheme the new residential development edge will be seen in the middle distance with up to four storeys along the southern edge. Hauxton Road will remain the dominant element in the scene.

3.36 New development further south will bring this development closer, although the prominence of the Hauxton Road will remain as will traffic along the M11 to the south of this viewpoint. This strategic viewpoint is described as being the urban gateway and this approach as suburban in character. With the completion of both the approved scheme and the new development to the

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east of the Hauxton Road, presently under construction, it is not considered that further development south of the approved built edge will significantly alter the essential characteristics of this view. Any new development will be viewed in the context of the approved scheme. It is considered important that development does not extend up to the M11 and that open landscape still occupies the foreground retaining open views west towards the country park and the trees adjacent to the River Cam.

Local viewpoints 5 – From M11 over bridge 3.37 Viewpoint 5 is from the bridge over the M11 and upon completion of the consented scheme will be on the location of the new cycle way/pedestrian route linking both sides of the country park. The consented scheme will comprise up to four storey development along its southern edge wrapping across and screening the Robert Sayle building and the park and ride. The approved scheme will result in major changes within the view, with the prominence of Trumpington Church from this elevated position lessened. Because of the panoramic nature of the view and distance from the consented development, these changes will form a small part of the overall scene.

3.38 New development further south of the approved scheme will bring the built edge closer. With careful design to the development edge, including a varied landscape treatment, it is considered that any new development further south will not appear uncharacteristic and the experience of the view will remain similar to that of the approved scheme. The design and layout of any proposal will however be instrumental in determining whether “a soft green edge to the city” and “a distinctive urban edge” are maintained. As with viewpoint 4, retaining a landscape setting to any new development edge will be essential in maintaining the quality of the setting to Cambridge and a strong green foreground.

Summary of the green belt appraisal Visual summary 3.39 The visual assessment within The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 highlights the land between the M11 and south western edge of the city as having level views towards the city with the countryside in the foreground and a generally soft urban edge. Land to the west of the M11 is shown to form part of the broader rural setting with scattered villages.

3.40 With regards to views towards the area of search the clearest are those from the local and intermediate zones to the south and south west, due to the open and broadly flat nature of the landscape. Limited vegetation allows extensive visibility of the exposed edge of the Robert Sayle building and the Park and Ride. There are no views from the necklace of villages surrounding the site. Those locations from which extensive views are afforded are from the limited number of public rights of way in the south and south west and predominately from the roads within these areas, including the busy main approach roads to Cambridge from the south, such as the M11 motorway, A1309 Hauxton Road and A10 Cambridge Road.

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3.41 In views from the western section of the country park or from the A10, new development south of the approved scheme will bring the development edge slightly closer. However, development will be directly viewed in the context of the approved scheme, the new development to the east of Hauxton Road and of existing elements such as Addenbrooke’s Hospital, the M11 and traffic on junction 11. It is considered that the experience and character of these views will remain unaltered. From Cantelupe Road, due to the intervening vegetation it is doubtful that any further development will be visible.

3.42 The local and intermediate areas north and north west of the site are sensitive to change, due to the generally rural approach to the historic core of Trumpington and the relationship with areas such as Grantchester, Grantchester Meadows and Byron’s Pool, and have important historical and ecological associations. They are however limited to the northern boundary of the site and in viewpoints 6 and 7 there are only glimpsed views of the approved development or no views at all.

3.43 Distant views from elevated locations to the south and south west, such as Chapel Hill and St Margaret’s Mount, are also sensitive to change as, although part of a wider view towards the edge of Cambridge, the site forms the closest part of the setting for the view of the city beyond. In both these views the extent of new development and the approved scheme itself will form only a small, distant part of wider panoramic views that will therefore have no impact on the setting of Cambridge.

3.44 Only a small extent of the Robert Sayle building will be visible from the distant views to the north west. The effect of distance, topography and intervening vegetation will result in it being unlikely that further development of the site will be visible. Character area summary 3.45 Following this analysis it is considered that the effect that future development at the area of search will have on the intrinsic character of the surrounding character areas is nominal and the purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt will remain uncompromised.

3.46 It is considered that with careful design to the development edge, including varied landscape treatment and the retention of open views across the landscape north of the M11, development in the area of search will not necessarily appear uncharacteristic and the experience of the view will remain similar to that of the consented scheme.

3.47 Of all the character areas that contribute to the setting of Cambridge, only the one in which the site is located will be effected by further development, and the impact on this character area will be very localised and subject to the design approach.

It was been concluded that there will be no impact on the concept of a compact dynamic city, views of the historic core of Cambridge will remain unaffected and a green setting to the city can be maintained. The strategic

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green corridor along the River Cam will also remain intact and there is potential to enhance this corridor as part of additional public open space.

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Section three: Conclusions

4.1 The purpose of this appraisal was to test whether the area of search could accommodate further development without significant detriment to the purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt and still safeguard the setting and special character of Cambridge. Having sequentially assessed the area of search against these purposes and objectives in the previous sections we now sets out the key findings.

4.2 The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 states that the overriding character of the setting of Cambridge is rural. It describes the importance of retaining the appearance of the city “as a densely treed city with a soft, green edge merging into an agricultural landscape”. It notes that the shortest and most characteristic approaches between open countryside and what it describes as ‘distinctive Cambridge”, namely the areas around the historic core that are specifically recognisable and distinctive to the city, lie to the south and west.

4.3 Paragraph 6.2.14 of The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 states:

“It is important that the landscape surrounding Cambridge retains this rural character. The rural nature of the landscape around Cambridge is a defining quality of the setting and special character of the city, particularly in providing a setting to the urban form when seen from key views, in providing settings to necklace villages, and in contributing to people’s perception of the city as they approach it along communication routes...

…The rural setting of Cambridge is of great significance within the immediate vicinity of the city. It is here that the rural landscape should be most strongly preserved, or opportunities taken to restore or enhance the rural character and the soft green edge to the city…the degree to which different areas of rural land are important to the setting and special character of Cambridge will vary depending on a number of factors including visibility, character, and importance of other key qualities.”

4.4 The consented scheme resulted in the demolition of unsightly buildings that where seen as detracting from the rural character, and the creation of the country park along the River Cam Corridor. It was these enhancement qualities that assisted in the approval of the development at Trumpington Meadows. As stated in the Southern Fringe Area Action Plan (AAP) adopted February 2008: the overall vision is:

“as a modern, high quality, vibrant, innovative and distinctive urban extension of Trumpington, which will complement and enhance the character of the city. Development will secure a Countryside Enhancement Strategy comprising landscape, biodiversity and public access enhancements in the surrounding countryside, which will complement the existing landscape character of the area and protect and enhance the setting of Cambridge.”

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4.5 Under policy CSF2 of The Southern Fringe AAP some of the key points are: “The site will be developed as an attractive feature in the landscape with which it is well integrated through a variety of edge treatments. Trumpington West will connect the green spaces of Cambridge to the surrounding countryside, maintain a Green Corridor along the River Cam, and provide landscape, biodiversity and public access enhancements in the surrounding countryside. To ensure that the development of Trumpington West enhances the character and setting of Cambridge. To ensure that Trumpington will not merge with any of the surrounding villages. To provide opportunities for landscape improvements, outdoor recreation and public access to the open countryside around Trumpington.”

4.6 The table below highlights the potential effect that future development in the area of search is assessed as having on the qualities that contribute positively to the setting and special character of Cambridge as identified in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 (see paragraph 3.4), and the key points identified under policy CSF2 of The Southern Fringe AAP listed above.

Defining objectives No Impact Comment an purposes of impact Cambridge green belt

Key views of Limited number of strategic views Cambridge from the affected by potential surrounding development. Area of search countryside rarely viewed in context of wider Cambridge and historic core

A soft green edge to Significant planting proposed at the city Trumpington will create a very strong green framework in which the area of search will be viewed. Providing development does not extend too close to M11, the retention of a green swathe will maintain the guiding principle of a soft green edge.

A distinct urban Development of a stadium has edge potential to create a truly distinct and exemplar urban gateway. New housing edge should replicate approach for consent

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development.

Green Strategic green corridor along fingers/corridors into River Cam is retained and the city potential exists to extend country park around southern development edge

Elements and The area of search has the features contributing potential to build upon the positively to the landscape framework established character of the for the consented scheme, landscape setting providing a green park viewed in the context of the wider agricultural land The distribution, No impact physical separation, setting, scale and character of necklace villages A city set in a The concept of a compact urban landscape which city in strong rural setting would retains a strong rural be retained. It is of note that to the character west of Cambridge sport pitches are located within the green belt and do not impact on the overall rural setting to the city.

Development well Sensitive development that is integrated through a responsive to the site features has variety of edge the potential to fulfil this treatments objective.

Provide opportunity Major opportunity for significant for landscape enhancement improvement, outdoor recreation and public access

A compact dynamic The distant between the urban city gateway and inner core (or “distinctive” Cambridge) will not materially change and therefore the concept of a compact city will be retained.

4.7 It is also of note that the role and function of the landscape within the area of search (as identified in The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002)is connective landscape which “are an integral part of the city and its environs, but lack

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individual distinction, or do not play a significant contribution to the setting of the city.”

4.8 With regards the urban gateway, The Cambridge Green Belt Study 2002 indicates this at the park and ride. While this urban gateway will be moved further south it will not materially reduce the distance between the gateway to “distinctive” Cambridge, and as such a key perception of Cambridge as a compact city shall be maintained.

4.9 It is concluded that the area directly south of the present approved scheme could be sensitively developed without significant detriment to the purposes and objectives of the Cambridge green belt. This is, however, dependent on the careful treatment and design of the new built edge and especially on how the built form integrates and merges with the rural character. The retention of a soft, green edge will be of utmost importance.

Qualities and special character to be retained 4.10 Future development should build upon the original vision for the Trumpington Meadows scheme. Development south of the approved built edge will see the loss of some farmland. To a certain degree it will equally screen the north western areas of the country park from the A1309 (Hauxton Road) when approaching Cambridge from the A10 and M11. It is important therefore that development is not located too far south in order to retain a view towards the county park. Sensitive development in the area of search would allow the view over open countryside that creates the setting as a soft treed edge to Cambridge to be retained.

4.11 It is this green swathe created by the landscape that assists in limiting the effects on views, the character of the surrounding countryside and the character of the site itself. From distant and intermediate locations future development will be seen as only a small part of much wider panoramic views or will be viewed in the context of the approved scheme and other existing urbanising elements. The retention of a green edge around future development together with the agricultural land south of the M11 will in combination provide a rural edge to this part of city.

4.12 The design of the future development is of equal importance, especially in respect to the built form. The consented scheme will see up to four storey units located along its southern edge. In the area of search, the existing topography of the site slopes down towards the M11. In order to reduce the impact of future development and retain as large an area of the existing view as open countryside over the southern and western areas of the site, the height of the new development could evolve a different strategy. Tall units could be located in what will appear as a central core with the height of development dropping in line with the reducing topography.

Future objectives 4.13 The following key design objectives will need to be incorporated into the development of any future scheme:

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Minimise scale of buildings and use of materials to reduce visibility 4.14 Taller buildings should be limited to the northern edge adjacent to the approved scheme and then follow the site topography and reduce in height towards the south. Controlled use of colour and materials is recommended to minimise unnecessary or unintentional visual impacts in the wider landscape, especially along the southern and western edges. The opportunity to create a gateway building of particular architectural merit along Hauxton Road can build upon the original strategy developed for Trumpington Meadows in so far as establishing a high quality gateway at the southern approach to Cambridge. Minimise night-time effects by careful design and location of lighting 4.15 Any adverse impacts of lighting need to be avoided. The floodlit rugby pitches at Stone Hill and the lighting to the M11 junction and Hauxton Road already create detracting urbanized elements to night time views of the site and its surrounding area. Careful consideration of the height and type of lighting will need to be given to reduce night-time effects. The design of the sports pitches would need careful consideration. Provide additional reinforcement of existing landscape features to minimise effects 4.16 Extensive planting proposals would need to form an integral part of any future proposals. This should include the planting of new copses, hedgerows and trees around the new development edge to establish framed views of the development. Planting currently being implemented on site will provide a strong green framework and this can be enhanced further. Limit the effect of urbanizing elements to the retained countryside and arable setting 4.17 An open green swathe of land between any future development edge and the M11 should be retained to protect the character of the gateway view from Hauxton Road and provide a high quality setting to the urban edge. Whilst much of this land is situated at the lowest part of the site and screened by the M11 embankment from most of the surrounding countryside, it is nevertheless visible from the over bridge, future footpaths/cycle ways within the country park and from the location of the strategic viewpoint along the Hauxton Road. Any change in use that would require lighting and this would need to be carefully designed. Locating land use that require lighting closer to Hauxton Road and the lit junction of the M11 should be considered.

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