Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County 1 Eastern Uplands 1.3 Boundary Determinants The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from the topography and geology of the area, which largely 1.1 description coincide with the subsoil (i.e. quaternary geology) and The Eastern Uplands are located in the northeast of the soils, and are further confirmed by the landform and County and extend into the neighbouring County of the existing land uses. Wicklow, as they are part of the Wicklow Mountain complex. The undulating hills situated within County 1.4 Critical Landscape Factors Kildare lie to the east of the Liffey. The topography rises from the lowland plains, through undulating terrain to • Elevated Vistas the highest points of 379m above sea level (Ordnance The R410 secondary road and a number of local third Datum) at Cupidstown hill east of and 349m class roads give access to the uplands. Local roads A.S.L. at Caureen east of Rathmore; further south the cross the upper and lower slopes of the hills. As a maximum elevation being 332.25m O.D. at Slieveroe, result of the elevated road level and the generally low east of Morganstown and west of Blessington. vegetation, there are long distance views towards the The elevated nature of this area provides a defined Kildare lowlands and the Chair of Kildare. skyline with scenic views over the central plains of Kildare and the neighbouring which • Slopes further define the skyline and the extent of visibility. Steep slopes often define the visual boundary of lowland areas. Sloping land often provides an area Soils in the area are dominated by Grey Brown with its character and intensifies the visual Podzolics combined with Brown Earths and mineral prominence of any feature over greater distances, as soils. The hilltops (mainly Brown Earths) are poorly in the case of the Eastern Uplands. suitable for tillage and pasture and moderately suitable for forestry, and the rest of the lands have Slope also provides an increased potential for good suitability for the mentioned agricultural and development to penetrate primary and secondary forestry practices. ridgelines when viewed from lower areas of the public realm such as the roads and population centres (e.g. 1.2 Land Uses Rathmore, , Kilteel) in this area.

The Eastern Kildare Uplands are rural in context with a • Prominent Ridgelines number of scenic views from elevated vantage points. These occur as either primary ridgelines (visible only The general land use on the uplands is pasture, however against the sky from any prospect) or secondary some areas are occupied by arable lands, such as tillage, ridgelines (visible at least from some prospects below and conifer plantations. Mineral extraction sites are a distant primary ridge line). also of significance, particularly east of Caureen hill as a result of the natural resource allocation (sand pits and In this upland environment of the Eastern Kildare slate quarries). Land parcels are of medium to large size, Uplands, nearly all ridgelines are secondary when with a proliferation of gorse on unmanaged lands. viewed from the lowland areas, as the Wicklow Hedgerows are generally low and well-maintained, Mountains to the east define the skyline (i.e. form with scattered hedge trees at some sections. primary ridgelines).

Small villages, together with a dispersed pattern of farm structures are indicative of a relatively low rural population density.

56 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in 57 escription Land Use – Uplands South Eastern Hills Corballis 2.2 South-easternThe Uplands are rural in context, the general land use being pasture. Significant areas arehowever occupied by arable lands, mainly tillage, and conifer plantations. Natural vegetation also occurs at certain parts Hughstown of Hill. Land parcels are medium of size,with generally unmaintained and thus tall hedgerows that screen potentially scenic vistas along the local roads. A relatively high density rural of housing, together with a dispersed pattern farm of structures are indicative a growing of rural population density. 2 2.1 d South-easternThe Uplands coincide with Corballis and Hughstown Hills to the south-east the of County, east . of This upland area also extends into the neighbouring Wicklow Mountains, as they are part the of same geomorphological The complex. topography gently rises from the southern lowlands, through undulating terrain to the highest point of at Hughstown O.D. 298m Hill. Another significant landmark in the area is provided by the coniferous hilltop Corballis of Hill, at 258m O.D. relativelyThe elevated nature this of area provides a locally definedskyline to the east with scenic views theover southern plains Kildare of as well as to the neighbouring Wicklow Mountains, which further define skyline the and the extentof visibility. Soils in the area are dominated by Grey Brown Podzolics combined with Brown Earths and mineral soils. lands The have generally good suitability for tillage, pasture and forestry, the however hilltops are poorly suitable such for practices. Ridgelines perform the important providing of roles areasadjacent with visual identity, acting as dominant landscape focal points, and definingenclosingor the extent visual of catchments. • Undulating topography Gently undulating topography occurs within the upland area this of character unit. physical The shielding a built of form within the lee hills of provides areas that are visually unobtrusive in the landscape. Furthermore, the dynamic and complex nature undulating of land encloses smaller vistas and to providehelps intimate a more scale and visual containment available not in other open lands. • Low Vegetation Low vegetation occurring in this unit as grassland, moorland and generally hedgerows, low is generally uniform in appearance, failing to break vistas up and allowing distance long visibility. These areas therefore exhibit an inability tovisually absorb development. • Shelter Vegetation vegetation,Shelter represented in certain locations of this unit by coniferous plantations and other woodlands, provides visual screening and to helps provide a visual containment available not in open, low-vegetation lands. • Localised River Views River valleys are generally visually enclosed and highly localised areas very of distinctive character with a high degree visual of consistency. Due to the elevated nature this of landscape character unit, views the of valley as well as the of Poulaphouca Reservoir are available from the hilltops and high points the at some of local roads. 2.3 Boundary Determinants • Undulating topography

The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from Gently undulating topography is presented within the the topography and geology of the area, which largely Corballis upland character unit. The physical coincide with the subsoils, soils and landform, and are shielding within the lee of hills can conceal relatively further confirmed by the existing land uses. large new features (e.g. between Hughstown and Corballis Hills) rendering them visually unobtrusive. Furthermore, the dynamic and complex nature of 2.4 Critical Landscape Factors undulating land encloses local vistas and helps to provide a realistic scale and visual containment not • Elevated Vistas available in open lands. A number of local roads cross these upland areas. The local roads run through the upper and lower slopes of • Low Vegetation the hills and provide access to residences within the Low vegetation, represented at some areas of this unit uplands. As a result of the elevated road level and the by grassland and moorland, is generally uniform in lack of tall vegetation, there are long distance vistas appearance, failing to break up vistas and allowing towards the Southern Kildare Lowlands. However, long distance visibility, thereby, providing an inability these views are affected by the generally unmaintained to absorb development. hedgerows and tall vegetation (i.e. existing conifer plantations). • Shelter Vegetation

• Slopes Shelter vegetation, largely represented in this unit by coniferous plantations and generally unmaintained and Slopes often define the visual boundary of lowland tall hedgerows, provides visual screening, enclosing areas. Sloping land often provides an area with its vistas and helping to provide a visual containment not character and offers an increased elevation, intensifying available in open, low-vegetation lands. the visual prominence of any feature over greater distances, as in the case of the Corballis Hills. Slope also provides an increased potential for development to penetrate primary and secondary ridgelines when 3 Northern Hills – Newtown viewed from lower areas of the public realm such as the Hills roads and population centres in this area.

• Prominent Ridgelines Description

In this upland environment of the Hughstown and This character area is a small upland area on the Corballis Hills, all ridgelines are secondary when central-northern part of the County boundary, which viewed from the lowland areas, i.e. the hilltops are includes the hills to the north and south of Newtown visible from some prospects below the distant (with 145m O.D. and 135m O.D. respectively) that primary ridgeline formed by the Wicklow Mountains locally define the skyline in this area. This unit lies to the east. immediately south of the .

Ridgelines perform the important roles of providing The relatively elevated nature of the local roads in this adjacent areas with visual identity, acting as dominant area, which run through both hilltops, provides scenic landscape focal points and defining the extent of views over the northern and north-western plains of visual catchments. Kildare as well as to the Royal Canal corridor at certain vantage points and to the neighbouring County Meath undulating lowlands.

58 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County Kildare 59 Hills. gentle The this of slope character unit also defines the visual boundaryof lowland the adjacent areas and provides an increased potential for to penetratedevelopment the ridgelines viewed when from local roads and villages in the area. • Prominent Ridge Lines Although the ridgelines this of upland area of Newtown Hills they are locally major order, of not appear as primary ridgelines viewed when from the lowland areas, to the due generally smooth terrain and flat topographyof the surroundingenvirons. Ridgelines generally perform the important of roles providingareas adjacent with a sense visual of identity, acting as dominant landscape focalpoints, and defining the extentof visual catchments. isTherefore, it important interruption to avoid by thatdevelopment will reduce the integrity of Newtown Hills ridgelines. • Undulating topography Gently undulating topography is presented within the upland area this of character unit. dynamic The nature the of existing undulating land between the two hills locally encloses vistas and to provide helps a realistic scale and visual containment available not in the generally open and flat landsof County Kildare. • Low Vegetation Low vegetation occurring in this unit as grassland and generally hedgerows low is generally uniform in appearance. fails It to break vistas up and allows long distance visibility, thereby providing an inability to visually absorb development. • Shelter Vegetation vegetation,Shelter represented in certain areas this of unit by coniferous plantations, provides visual screening, enclosing vistas and helping to provide a visual containment. Chair Kildare of – Red Hill, Dunmurry Hill, Hill Allen. of eterminants Critical Landscape Factors Boundary D Land Uses Soils in the area are dominated by Grey Brown Podzolics combined with mineral Complex soils and Gleys. area The is suitable to moderately suitable for tillage, pasture and meadow and suitable forestry. for the northernHowever, hill is less suitable the for mentioned practices to its due gley composition. 3.3 • Elevated Vistas A number local of roads run through Newtown Hills providing access established for villages within the uplands, e.g. Newtown village (located between the two existing hills). As a result the of elevation the on local roads and the generally well-maintained low, hedgerows, there are distance long views towards the Northern and North-western Lowlands. • Slopes landSloping often provides an area with its character and intensifies the visualprominence of any feature greaterover distances, as in the case the of Newtown 3.2 boundariesThe this of unit directly derive from the topography, soils and geology the of area, which largely coincides with the subsoils, and are further confirmed by the landform and the existing land uses. 3.1 NorthernThe Uplands are rural in context, the area being largely dominated by pastureland. A number of agricultural land areas are occupied by non-irrigated arable lands, mainly tillage, and small areas of naturally occurring vegetation. Land parcels are of medium to large size, with generally well-maintained hedgerows.low hedgerows containHowever, trees whichscreen potentially scenic vistas at some sections along the local roads. Small villages such as Newtown, together with a dispersed pattern farm of structures are indicative a relatively of rural low population density. 4 The Central Uplands or the Allen Hill is characterised by the mineral extraction Chair of Kildare and quarrying activities on its north-western part. Similarly, Boston Hill has a large area of gravel extraction activities. A visually dominant feature of 4.1 description Red Hill is the telecommunication mast located on the hilltop. The Central Uplands or the Chair of Kildare as the area is locally known consists of a number of hills that Land parcels within this unit are of medium to large interrupt the continuity of the Kildare plains. This size, with generally well-maintained low hedgerows. landscape character unit is located immediately north Small villages such as Allen, Killeagh and of Kildare town. The land rises to a maximum of 233m Guidenstown, together with a dispersed pattern of O.D. at Dunmurry Hill. The ridgeline of Dunmurry rural houses and farm structures are indicative of a together with the ridgelines of Grange Hill (223m relatively high rural population density. O.D.), Red Hill (197m O.D.),

Boston Hill (159m O.D.) and Hill of Allen (219m O.D.) 4.3 Boundary Determinants define the skyline of central Kildare and represent The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from significant features on the landscape. the geology, subsoils (i.e. quaternary geology) and topography of the area, which largely coincide with The elevated nature of this area provides highly the soils and landform and are further confirmed by scenic views over the central plains and boglands of the existing land uses. Kildare.

Soils in the area are dominated by Grey Brown 4.4 Critical Landscape Factors Podzolics combined with small pockets of mineral soils as well as raised bogs and reclaimed peats. The • Elevated Vistas area is generally suitable for tillage, pasture and A number of regional and local roads run through this forestry, the suitability of boglands areas being landscape character unit. The roads cross the upper unclassified. and lower slopes of the hills and provide access to established residences as well as to Kildare town. As a Cultural Significance result of the elevated road level and the generally low The Hill of Allen is of mythological significance, with vegetation, there are long distance and extensive views the legendary Fionn MacCumhaill and the Fianna. It towards the surrounding lowlands and boglands. is supposed to have been the site of their camp, with the surrounding area as their training ground. • Slopes The slopes of the hills that form the Chair of Kildare 4.2 Land Uses define the visual boundary of the adjacent lowland areas. Sloping land intensifies the visual prominence of any The Chair of Kildare comprises a number of landuses. feature over greater distances, as in the case of the Hill Large fields within this area are generally used as of Allen, Red Hills, Dunmurry and Grange Hills. Slope pasture lands, however a significant amount of also provides an increased potential for development to non-irrigated agricultural lands, mainly containing penetrate primary and secondary ridgelines when tillage, can also be found. Coniferous forestry viewed from lower areas of the public realm such as the represents another significant landuse in the area, roads and population centres in this area. with some patches of naturally occurring vegetation, mainly at Allen and Dunmurry Hills.

60 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County Kildare 61 escription Land Uses Northern Lowlands – Northern Lowlands & Environs 5.2 predominantThe landuse in this area is pasture, with large areas non-irrigated of arable lands (mainly tillage). A number coniferous of plantations and deciduous woodlands can also be found, as well as large patches bogland of and peat extraction sites. Settlement patterns in this area are linked to the closeness Dublin of Existing City. large towns such as Naas, , , and , together with other small villages at the outskirts of major towns and a high density dispersed of rural houses and farm dwellings throughout the countryside, are indicative a high of population density. This character unit contains the largest population concentrations the of county. 5 5.1 d This extensive lowland areato the north-east the of County is bisected by the River Liffey valley. The Royal Canal runs along its northern boundary and the corridor follows a northeast to south- west alignment. This area is characterised by generally flat terrain open and lands with regular (medium sized)patterns. field Hedgerows are generally well maintained with and scattered low, trees along the field boundaries thatpartially screen the lowest lying areas. Nevertheless, the generally low-lyingvegetation the of area allows long-distance and extensive visibility. Distant views include the skylines the of Eastern Uplands, the Newtown Hills to the west, and the Chair Kildare of hilltops to the south-west. Soils in the area are dominated by complexes (generally mineral with soils) pockets Grey of Brown Podzolics and Gleys. area The is suitable to moderately suitable tillage, for pasture and meadow and suitable forestry. for • Prominent Ridge Lines These occur as either primary ridgelines only (visible against the sky from any prospect) secondary or ridgelines at least (visible from some prospects below a distant primary In ridge this line). upland environment the of Chair Kildare, of nearly all ridgelines are primary viewed when from the surrounding lowland areas. Ridge lines perform the important providing of roles areasadjacent with visual identity, acting as dominant landscape focal points, and defining the extentof visual catchments. • Undulating topography the within presented is topography undulating Gently the to particularly unit, character this of area upland Hills). Grange and Dunmurry Red, between (i.e. south conceal can hills of lee the within shielding physical The the break not does it where features, new large relatively undulating of nature complex and dynamic The skyline. vistas. enclosed locally for potential the has land • Low Vegetation Low vegetation, represented in this unit by grassland, moorland and generally hedgerows, low is generally uniform in appearance, failing to break vistas up and allowing distance long visibility, providing thereby, an inability to visually absorb development. • Shelter Vegetation vegetation,Shelter represented in certain areas this of unit by coniferous plantations, provides visual screening, enclosing vistas and helping to provide a visual containment. • Localised Canal Views Canal corridors are generally visually enclosed and highly localised areas very of distinctive character with a high degree visual of consistency. area The has localised vistas to the Milltown the of Feeder Grand Canal that runs south Hillof Allen of and north Grange of Hill. 5.3 Boundary Determinants field hedgerows. In a similar manner to undulating topography, shelter vegetation has a shielding and The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from absorbing quality in landscape terms. It can provide a the soils, topography and geology of the area, which natural visual barrier and also adds to the complexity largely coincide with the subsoils (i.e. quaternary of a vista, breaking it up to provide scale and geology) and landform, and are further confirmed by containment for built forms. the existing land uses.

• Localised River and Canal Views 5.4 Critical Landscape Factors River valleys and canal corridors are generally visually enclosed and highly localised areas of very distinctive • Smooth Terrain character with a high degree of visual consistency. Smooth terrain and the generally flat topography and This character unit includes sections of the River landform that characterise this landscape character Liffey and the Grand and Royal Canals. Due to the low unit, allow vistas over long distances without lying nature of this area, many views of the river valley disruption. As a result development can have a and the canal corridors are available from the local disproportionate visual impact, due to an inherent roads and from the viewing points located on bridges. inability to be visually absorbed.

• Undulating topography Gently undulating topography is presented at certain 6 Southern Lowlands areas of this character unit, providing the potential for local visual enclosure thereby absorbing development 6.1 description where it does not break the skyline (i.e. it renders This landscape character unit comprises an extensive visually unobtrusive of the overall landscape scale). St. lowland area to the south-west of the County, the River Patrick’s Hill, Ardrass, Celbridge represents an Barrow and the Grand Canal running along its western important topographical feature within the Northern quarter. This area is characterised by generally flat Lowlands area. terrain and open lands with regularly shaped large field patterns. Hedgerows are well maintained and low, • Low Vegetation with scattered trees along the field boundaries that The grassland, tillage fields and generally low partially screen the lowest lying areas. hedgerows of this area provide similar characteristics to smooth terrain in landscape terms, and the two are Nevertheless, the generally flat topography and the often interrelated due to soil attributes. Grassland low lying vegetation allow long-distance and extensive vegetation and agricultural crops are usually uniform visibility. Distant views include the skylines of the in appearance, failing to break up vistas, and allowing Eastern Kildare Uplands, the Newtown and Hughstown long distance visibility. Existing low hedgerows Hills and the Wicklow Mountains to the east, the partially screen the lowest land parcels, nevertheless Chair of Kildare hilltops to the north-east and the the common low vegetation proves unable to visually neighbouring hills of County Laois to the south-west. absorb new development. Soils in the area are largely dominated by Grey Brown Podzolics, although pockets of gleys and mineral soils • Shelter Vegetation also occur. The area is generally classified as widely Shelter vegetation is represented at some stretches of suitable for tillage, pasture, meadow and forestry. this unit by coniferous plantations, deciduous woodlands and the presence of trees that grow on

62 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County Kildare 63 escription North-Western Lowlands – Lowlands North-Western & Environs Cadamstown • Shelter Vegetation vegetationShelter is represented at some stretches of this unit by coniferous plantations, deciduous woodlands and the presence trees of that grow on hedgerows. field Tall vegetation hasshielding a and absorbing quality in landscape terms as can it provide a natural visual barrier and also adds to the complexity a vista, of breaking to provide up it scale and containment built for forms. • Localised Water Corridor Views River valleys and water corridors are generally visually enclosed and highly localised areas very of distinctive character and high degree visual of consistency. This character unit includes sections the of and the Grand Canal. Due to the lying low nature this of area, many views the of river valley and the canal corridor are available from the local roads and from the viewing points located bridges. on 7 7.1 d This lowland landscape character unit is located on the northwestern boundarythe of area county. The is characterised by generally flat topography and smooth terrain, gently undulating around Carbury, to a maximum at Carbury O.D. elevation 142m of Hill. occurringThe open lands with medium to large field patterns are bordered by well-maintained and low hedgerows, which contain scattered trees along some sections the of field boundaries. Althoughhedgerows partially screen the lowest lying adjacent areas, the commonly flat terrain allowslong-distance visibility. Distant views include the skylines Newtown of Hills to the east and Allen Hill to the south-east. Soils in the area are characterised by a combination of Grey Brown Podzolics and Gleys, with small pockets Raised the areaof generallyis soils.Bog Consequently, eterminants Critical Landscape Factors Boundary D Land Uses 6.4 • Smooth Terrain Smooth terrain and the generally flat topography and landform that characterised this landscape character unit, allows extensive vistas distances long over without disruption, as the planar surface does not break fore and up middle ground. Consequently, candevelopment have a disproportionate visual impact to an due inherent inability to be visually absorbed by the flat terrain. • Low Vegetation grassland,The large tillage fields and generally low well maintained hedgerows this of area provide similar characteristics to smooth terrain in landscape terms, and the two are often interrelated to soil due attributes. Grassland vegetation and tillage crops are usually uniform in appearance, failing to break up vistas, and allowing distance long visibility. Although existing hedgerows low partially screen the lowest land parcels, the generally vegetation low proves unable to visually absorb new development. The boundariesThe this of unit are directly derived from the soils, geology, and topography the of area, which largely coincide with thesubsoils (i.e. quaternary geology) and landform, and are further confirmed by the existing land uses. 6.3 6.2 tillage, is area this in landuse predominant The relatively and crops agricultural other with combined and coniferous of number A pastureland. of areas large small as well as occur, also plantations forestry mixed occurring naturally and woodlands deciduous of patches found. be also can areas bogland Some vegetation. Existing large towns such as and , togetherwith other smaller settlements and dispersed rural houses and farm dwellings throughout the countryside, are indicative a relatively of high population density. suitable for tillage, pasture and forestry, although lands • Low Vegetation overlying Gley soils are classified as poorly suitable for The grassland, bog type grasses and generally low tillage and moderately suitable for pasture and forestry. hedgerows of this area provide similar characteristics to smooth terrain in landscape terms and the two are 7.2 Land Uses often interrelated due to soil attributes. Grassland vegetation and tillage crops are usually uniform in The predominant landuse in this area is pasture, with appearance, failing to break up vistas, and allowing large areas of non-irrigated arable lands (mainly long-distance visibility. tillage). A relatively large area of mixed forest, combined with some coniferous plantations, can also Although existing hedgerows partially screen the be found. Extensive areas of bogland also occur, lowest land parcels, the commonly low vegetation combined with peat extraction sites, as well as gravel proves unable to visually absorb new development. extraction sites west of Cadamstown. Existing small villages such as Carbury & Cadamstown, combined • Shelter Vegetation with other smaller settlements and dispersed rural Shelter vegetation is represented at some stretches of houses and farm dwellings throughout the countryside, this unit by mixed forests and the presence of trees are indicative of a relatively low population density. that grow on field hedgerows. In a similar manner to undulating topography, shelter vegetation has a 7.3 Boundary Determinants shielding and absorbing quality in landscape terms. It can provide a natural visual barrier and also add to The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from the complexity of a vista, breaking it up to provide the soils, geology and topography of the area which scale and containment for built forms. largely coincide with the subsoils (i.e. quaternary geology) and landform, and are further confirmed by the existing land uses. 8 Central Undulating Lowlands

7.4 Critical Landscape Factors 8.1 description • Smooth Terrain This lowland landscape character unit is Smooth terrain and the generally gentle topography characterised by undulating topography and located and landform that characterise this landscape in the centre of the County. The terrain gently rises to character unit, allows vistas over long distances a maximum elevation of 147m O.D. at the east of the without disruption. Consequently, development can lands. The Curragh Racecourse and its have a disproportionate visual impact in such terrain, natural grasslands represent a significant landscape due to an inherent inability to be visually absorbed. feature in the area.

• Undulating topography The generally medium sized open lands are bordered Undulating topography is presented around Carbury by well maintained hedgerows that contain scattered on this character unit, providing a physical shielding trees along some sections of the field boundaries. and visual enclosure of a built form within the Although hedgerows are generally low, the undulating lower-lying lands. These areas have a potential for lands provide the potential to screen adjacent visual enclosure, where development does not break low-lying areas. The skyline to the east is defined by the skyline. the Eastern Kildare Uplands and the Chair of Kildare defines the extent of visibility to the west.

64 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County Kildare 65 Critical Landscape Factors 8.4 • Undulating topography gentlyThe undulating topography that characterises this character unit provides physical shielding. The dynamic and nature complex undulating of landshave the potential to locally enclose vistas and thus, to help provide a realistic scale and visual containment where does break not development the skyline. • Elevated Vistas roadsThe that run through the elevation upper areas thisof undulating terrain allow distance long vistas to the Curragh open lands, as well as to the Northern and Southern Kildare Lowlands These views however are interrupted along some sections by unmaintained and thus, tall hedgerows. • Low Vegetation grassland,The tillage fields and generally low hedgerows this of area provide similar characteristics to smooth terrain in landscape terms, and the two are often interrelated to soil due attributes. Grassland vegetation and tillage crops are usually uniform in appearance, failing to break vistas up and allowing for distancelong visibility. • Shelter Vegetation of stretches some at represented is vegetation Shelter mixed and coniferous of presence the by unit this topography, undulating to manner similar a In forests. in quality absorbing and screening has vegetation shelter barrier visual natural a provide can It terms. landscape up it breaking vista, a of complexity the to add also and forms. built for containment and scale provide to • Localised River Views RiverThe Liffey runs through this character unit, which is easily accessible by existing roads. Due to the undulating nature this of area, many views the of river valley are available from vantage points along the river valley. River valleys are generally visually enclosed and have very distinctive characters with a high degree visual of consistency. eterminants Boundary D Land Uses Soils in the area are dominated by Grey Brown Podzolics combined with mineral soils. As a result, the area is suitable to moderately suitable tillage, for pasture, meadow and forestry. unitThe is generally perceived as being important and specialin landscape terms Appendix (see 4), particularly to the due Curragh which is perceived as the most important landscape feature in the County. roadThe that runs through the Curragh is considered to have scenic value and the area is perceived as having significant tourism potential,it however not is considered suitable other for type – developments of telecommunication for except antennae. The boundariesThe this of unit are directly derived from the geology, soilsand topography the of area, which largely coincide with the subsoils (i.e. quaternary geology) and landform, and are further confirmed by the existing land uses. 8.3 The Curragh natural grassland represents the larger larger the represents grassland natural Curragh The Agricultural unit. this in landuse considerable most and cultivation complex and tillage including lands, of south and north the to both dispersed are patterns, of areas large of pattern dispersed a with Curragh, the also bog peat of Patches forestry. mixed and coniferous unit. character this of south the to occur Established large population centres such as Kildare and Newbridge, combined with other smaller settlements such as Milltown and a dispersed, relatively high density rural of housing the on outskirts the of major urban areas, are indicative a of high population density. 8.2 9 Western Boglands Robertstown, combined with existing clusters of scattered rural houses (e.g. , Blackwood) can be found. Although there is a low population 9.1 description density, the recreation and tourism potential of the

This lowland landscape character unit, located to the area is recognised. western central part of the County, is characterised by flat topography and smooth terrain. The terrain has a 9.3 Boundary Determinants high water table and it is badly drained, providing The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from generally unstable and unproductive land. This area of the soils and topography of the area, which largely the county is highly distinctive due to the existing coincide with the subsoils (i.e. quaternary geology), large areas of bogland vegetation. The commonly large geology and landform, and are further confirmed by sized open lands are often bordered by unmaintained the existing land uses. hedgerows, which contain scattered trees, and have the potential to partially screen adjacent lands. Nevertheless, the generally low vegetation and the 9.4 Critical Landscape Factors even ground provide extensive long-distance visibility. The skyline to the south of this unit is defined by the • Smooth Terrain Chair of Kildare Hills and the Northern Uplands Smooth terrain and the generally gentle topography define the skyline to the northeast. and landform that characterised this landscape character unit, allows vistas over long distances Soils in the area are largely dominated by raised bog without disruption. Consequently, development can and reclaimed peat, with some areas of grey brown have a disproportionate visual impact in such terrain, podzolics and complex mineral soils. The area is due to an inherent inability to be visually absorbed by generally unclassified with some lands classified as the planar terrain. suitable and other areas considered of poor suitability for tillage, pasture and being of moderate suitability • Low Vegetation for forestry. The grassland, moorland and bog type grasses that are commonly found in this unit, provide similar 9.2 Land Uses characteristics to smooth terrain in landscape terms. The major landuse in the area is peat extraction due Bogland type vegetation and grassland are usually to the largely occurring natural resource in the area uniform in appearance, failing to break up vistas, and (i.e. mantled peatbogs). allowing long distance visibility. Existing low hedgerows around field boundaries partially screen Although boglands dominate the landscape of this the adjacent low-lying land parcels. Nevertheless, the character unit, significant areas of pastureland can also commonly peat bog vegetation proves unable to be found, together with patches of tillage and non- visually absorb new development. irrigated arable lands. A complementary significant landuse in the area is represented by the large coniferous • Shelter Vegetation forests planted in cutaway bogs and the natural Shelter vegetation is represented at some stretches of revegetation occurring in set-aside cutaway areas. this unit by the presence of large coniferous Badly drained bogs and alluvial lands characterise the plantations and scattered trees that grow on field unit, which has remained unattractive to agricultural hedgerows. Shelter absorbing quality in landscape settlement. As a result, the area is thinly populated. terms; it can provide a natural visual barrier and add However, small settlements such as Allenwood or to the complexity of a vista, breaking it up to provide scale and containment for built forms.

66 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County Kildare 67 eterminants Critical Landscape Factors Land Uses Boundary D 10.4 • Undulating topography Undulating topography, which characterises this unit, provides a physical shielding within the lee hills of and thus, can conceal relatively large new features on the lower-lying lands. Furthermore, the dynamic and nature complex of undulating land encloses local vistas, rendering unobtrusivedevelopment the on overall landscape. • Slopes landSloping often provides an area with its character and intensifies the visualprominence of any feature greaterover distances. gentle The the slopes of hills in this character unit start to define the visual boundary theof lowland adjacent areas (further defined by the Eastern and provides Uplands) an increased potential to penetrate development for the ridgelines when viewed from local roads and villages in the area. 10.2 major andThe most extensive landuse in the area is pasture, with patches non-irrigated of agricultural lands (mainly tillage). Small clusters naturally of occurring vegetation together withsome coniferous forests and woodlands can also be found. Existing large towns, such as , and smaller settlements (e.g.Kill, , , , combined etc.) with a high density of dispersed rural houses and farm structures are indicative a relatively of high rural population density. 10.3 boundariesThe this of unit are directly derived from the geology, and topography theof area, which largely coincide with the subsoils (i.e. quaternary geology), soils and landform, and are further confirmed by the existing land uses. Chair escription Eastern Transition Lands Transition Eastern Two the of Grand Canal feeders can be found in this character unit with local roads running parallel to the water corridor and being easily accessible. As a result many views the of canal are availablefrom the local roads and from viewing points located along the corridors are Water corridor. generally visually enclosed areas very of distinctive character with a high degree visual of consistency. 10 10.1 d unit,located transitional character landscape This the of east the to lowlands and uplands the between The topography. undulating characterisedby is County, lands The south. and north unit the bisects Liffey River regularand size withpattern, medium of generally are and Gorse hedgerows. well-maintained commonly this unit.areas of some at occur naturalvegetation the areas to lowland the from rises terraingently The land The KildareEasternUplands. the of hilltops main the ones hilltops, of series througha undulates Bullhill (174m O.D.) Hill(179m Kilcullen Old being: Hill(168m Tree Nine O.D.), Hill(171m Mullacash O.D.), vantage elevated The O.D.). Carrighilland (166m O.D.) long-distance provide roads local the along points east the to skyline The Kildarelowlands. the of views distantUplands, Eastern by the defined thisis unit of Mountains, Wicklow neighbouring the including views of the hilltops The of visibility. extent the define west. Kildareto the skyline Hills partially of the define Soils in the area are composed grey of brown podzolics and (mainly complexes mineral As a soils). result, the area is classified as moderatelyto widely suitable tillage, for pasture and forestry. area The is generally perceived asbeing important and special in landscape terms, particularly along the River Liffey valley. Preferred scenic drives are located within this unit, as part the of drives from Naas and Kilcullen to . unit The is perceived as having potentialsome development to the south, along the primary national road. • Low Vegetation This lowland unit, characterised mostly by smooth The grassland, tillage fields and generally low terrain and low vegetation, has extensive open hedgerows of this area are usually uniform in mountain views (i.e. the Chair of Kildare to the west appearance, failing to break up vistas, and allowing and the Eastern Uplands to the east; distant views long distance visibility. Existing well maintained including the neighbouring Wicklow Mountains). hedgerows partially screen the lowest land parcels. Soils in the area are classified as Regosols (of alluvial Nevertheless, the commonly low vegetation proves origin) and are widely suitable for tillage, pasture, unable to visually absorb new development. meadow and forestry. Generally, the river valley is identifiable by its floodplain levels and slopes of • Shelter Vegetation naturally occurring shrubs and trees with a slow Shelter vegetation is represented at some stretches of progression to grasslands. At some sections, this unit by coniferous plantations and the presence of pasturelands directly occur on the floodplains, whilst scattered trees that grow on field hedgerows. In a conifer and deciduous forest occupy some other parcels. similar manner to undulating topography, shelter Large tillage fields with few inner boundaries are also vegetation has a shielding and absorbing quality in common in this area, with well-trimmed and thus low landscape terms. It can provide a natural visual hedgerows that allow for long-distance visibility. barrier and also adds to the complexity of a vista, breaking it up to provide scale and containment for The river valley lands gently undulate as it runs built forms. through the upland areas of the County. Along this section, deciduous woodlands are commonly found on • Localised River Valley Views the gentle slopes that rise from the valley. This landscape character unit is perceived as having This character unit is bisected by the River Liffey significant landscape value, and as being both special valley. River valleys are visually enclosed and highly in landscape terms and sensitive to development. It is localised areas of distinctive character with a high also perceived as having high amenity value, degree of visual consistency. preferred scenic drives running along its corridor. Due to the undulating nature of this area, many views The river valley is considered to be a landmark of the of the river valley are available from vantage points County – particularly between Kilcullen and along the local roads. Ballymore Eustace. The rich mix of water and land features along the valley and the extent of the corridor, characterise this area of the County. 11 River Liffey 11.2 Land Uses

11.1 description The fertile Liffey Valley area is well drained providing The Liffey Valley is located on the north-eastern good soil conditions and the potential for a variety of quarter of the County, flowing in a north-east to agricultural and horticultural uses. A large south-east pattern and its waters winding along the proportion of the river shore is occupied by natural central lowlands. Many towns have become well vegetation. Although pasturelands generally occupy established along the riverbanks, such as Leixlip, the riverbanks, there are also a significant number of Celbridge, Clane, Newbridge, Kilcullen and Ballymore large tillage fields. Eustace, where the River Liffey flows into Small parcels of coniferous and deciduous forests also Poulaphouca Reservoir. occur along the river valley. The local population of County Kildare is largely concentrated along the

68 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County Kildare 69 escription River Barrow River • Shelter Vegetation vegetationShelter is represented at some stretches of this unit by the presence natural of and native woodland that grows the on floodplainsof the river, as well as by conifer plantation lands. in adjacent In a similar manner to undulating topography, shelter vegetation has a shielding and absorbing quality in landscape terms.can It provide a natural visual barrier as well as add to the complexity a vista. of • Localised River Views This character unit follows the path the of Liffey whichRiver, is easily accessible by the local roads. Many views the of river valleyare available from the local roads and from vantage points and bridges located along the water corridor. 12 12.1 d BarrowThe is Valley an extensive river valley flowing in a north south pattern along the western boundary theof County. river The valley is easily accessible by local roads and many towns have become well established along the riverbanks, such as Monasterevin and Athy. riverThe valley is characterised by its floodplain levels and gentle deciduous slopes of trees with a slow progression to pasture lands. Running along the the riverbanksBarrow Way, are predominately grassland, although sometimes there is a transition of natural vegetation. Medium to large tillage fields with hedgerow boundaries are also common to the river terrainvalley. The is generally even with long- distance views mountains of – the Chair Kildare of hills and the Eastern Uplands and the Wicklow Mountains being discernible to the east. Soils in the area are (mainly composed complexes of mineral alluvial of soils) origin. are They classified as suitable to moderately suitable tillage, for pasture and meadow and suitable forestry. for eterminants Critical Landscape Factors Boundary D Liffey urban Major centres Valley. include Leixlip, Celbridge, Clane and Newbridge. Smaller settlements can also be Kilcullen, found (e.g. Ballymore Eustace, , Athgarvan). Scattered houses and farm structures are dispersed in the rural hinterland. The Liffey embraces Valley a high population density. • Smooth Terrain Smooth terrain and the generally gentle topography and landform that characterise this landscape character unit, allow vistas distances long over withoutdisruption along the riverAs corridor. resulta the on the shoresdevelopment of river can have a disproportionate visual impact, to an due inherent inability to be visually absorbed. • Undulating topography Undulating topography is presented at some sections thisof character unit (particularly to the southeast) where the land gently rises at floodplainslopes. This provides a physical shielding and has the potential to visually enclose the built form within the river valley, doeswhere it break not the skyline. • Low Vegetation grassland,The tillage fields and generally low hedgerows along the river corridor are commonly uniform in appearance, failing to break vistas, up allowing distance long visibility and proving unable to visually absorb new development. 11.4 11.3 boundariesThe this of unit are directly derived from the subsoils the of area, which largely coincide with the landform, and are further confirmed by the existing land uses. 12.2 Land Uses • Shelter Vegetation

The fertile valley area is well drained providing mixed Shelter vegetation is represented at some stretches of uses such as agricultural and horticultural crops. A this unit by the presence of natural and native large proportion of the river shore is occupied by woodland that grows on the floodplains of the river. natural vegetation. Although pasturelands generally In a similar manner to undulating topography, shelter occupy the riverbanks, there are a significant number vegetation has a shielding and absorbing quality in of tillage fields occurring adjacent to the riverbanks. landscape terms. It can provide a natural visual Small parcels of coniferous and deciduous forests also barrier and also add to the complexity of a vista, occur along the valley. breaking it up to provide scale and containment for built forms. The local population is concentrated in the towns of Monasterevin and Athy, however, smaller settlements • Localised River Views can also be found. Scattered houses and farm This character unit follows the path of the Barrow structures are dispersed in the rural hinterland. The River, which is easily accessible by road. Due to the settlement pattern of the Barrow valley area is low lying nature of this area, many views of the river indicative of a relatively high population density. valley are available from the local roads and from viewing points located along the valley trail. 12.3 Boundary Determinants River valleys are generally visually enclosed and The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from highly localised areas of very distinctive character the soils of the area, which largely coincide with the with a high degree of visual consistency. landform, and are further confirmed by the existing land uses. 13 Water Corridors – Grand Canal 12.4 Critical Landscape Factors

• Smooth Terrain 13.1 description

Smooth terrain and the generally gentle topography and The Grand Canal is an extensive water corridor that landform that characterise this landscape character unit, flows in an east to south-west direction through the allow long-distances views of the water corridor and the County. The canal corridor is divided at into surrounding environs. It is noteworthy that development the Naas and Corbally Branch and is further divided on the river shores can have a disproportionate visual in three branches at Robertstown: the Milltown impact as a result of such terrain, due to an inherent Feeder, the Barrow Line and the continuation of the inability to be visually absorbed. Grand Canal into the neighbouring County Offaly. The canal corridor is easily accessible by local roads • Low Vegetation and a number of towns have been established along The grassland, tillage fields and generally low the canal banks such as Allenwood, Robertstown and hedgerows of this area provide similar characteristics Rathangan. to smooth terrain in landscape terms. Grassland Smooth terrain and even topography characterise the vegetation and tillage crops are commonly uniform in canal corridor which generally progress into appearance, failing to break up vistas, and allowing pasturelands and boglands, although natural long distance visibility. Existing low hedgerows vegetation occurs at some of the sections. The partially screen the lowest land parcels. Nevertheless, corridor and its adjacent lands have been landscaped the common low vegetation proves unable to visually and enhanced along the sections where the canal absorb new development. crosses urban areas.

70 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017 Appendix 3 Landscape Character Areas in County Kildare 71 escription Water Corridors – Royal Canal – Royal Corridors Water uniform in appearance, failing to break vistas, up and allowing distance long visibility. proving Thereby unable to visually absorb new development. • Shelter Vegetation vegetationShelter is represented at this unit by the presence natural of vegetation that grows along the shores the of canal, as well as by coniferous and mixed plantations to the or adjacent Shelter water corridor. tall vegetation has a shielding and absorbing quality in landscape terms, as provides it a natural visual barrier as well as adding to the complexity a vista. of • Localised Canal Views Canal, Grand the of path the follows unit character This local the from points many at accessible easily is which landscape this to parallel runs sometimes and – roads arecanal the of views many Consequently, feature. viewing from and roads local the from both available, corridor. canal the along located bridges on points a with enclosed visually generally are corridors Water and character distinctive very of areas localised highly consistency. visual of degree high 14 14.1 d RoyalThe Canal flows in an east westto direction along the northern boundary the of County. canal The corridor flows through Leixlip, Maynooth and and continues into the neighbouring County Offaly. Local roads run parallel to the corridor along some sections. Smooth terrain and even topography characterise the canal which corridor, generally progresses into pasturelands, although natural vegetation occurs at thesome of sections and tillage fields can also be found lands. in adjacent lands The along the corridor have been landscaped and enhanced where the canal crosses urban settlements. Canal locks are distinctive features this of water corridor. Allen Hill) Allen eterminants Critical Landscape Factors Boundary D Land Uses Canal locks are distinctive features of this water water this of features distinctive are locks Canal can corridors canal the of views Long-distance corridor. of views distant and bridges existing from obtained be and Hill Red as (such uplands County the points. vantage certain from gained be also can 13.4 • Smooth Terrain Smooth terrain and the generally gentle landform that characterised this landscape character unit, allow vistas distances long over without disruption, where the canal flows in a in a straight-line direction. canConsequently, development have a disproportionate visual impact along this water to an due corridor, inherent inability to be visually absorbed by the existing topography. • Low Vegetation grasslandThe and bogland grasses that occur at the banks the of canal corridor are and low commonly 13.3 boundariesThe this of unit are directly derived from the ecological designation the of canalas a proposed Natural Heritage Area by National Parks and Wildlife. 13.2 canalThe provides drainage lands,to adjacent rendering them a higher potential mixed for use. Nevertheless, grasslands are a common progression of the canal shores pasture being the major landuse along the Where water the corridor. canal runs through bogland areas, bog type grasses and natural vegetation can be found in lands to it. adjacent Large tillage fields also occur at some areas, wellas as coniferous plantations and mixed forests. Small settlements such as Allenwood and Robertstown, together with a significant number, dispersedhowever pattern, scattered of houses the on canal shores, are indicative a relatively of low population density. Long-distance views of the canal corridor and its • Low Vegetation surrounding environs can be obtained from local The grasslands that generally occur at the banks of roads and existing bridges. the canal corridor are low and commonly uniform in appearance, failing to break up vistas, and allowing 14.2 Land Uses for long distance visibility. Thereby proving unable to visually absorb new development. The canal provides drainage to adjacent lands, increasing the potential for mixed use. Nevertheless, • Shelter Vegetation grasslands are a common progression of the canal Shelter vegetation is represented at some stretches of shores. Although pasture is the major landuse along this unit by the presence of natural vegetation the water corridor, large tillage fields also occur at growing along the shores of the canal, as well as by some areas, as well as coniferous plantations and coniferous plantations adjacent to the water corridor. mixed forests. Shelter or tall vegetation has a shielding and Large urban settlements such as Leixlip and absorbing quality in landscape terms, as it provides a Maynooth, together with a significant number of natural visual barrier as well as adding to the scattered houses along the canal shores, are indicative complexity of a vista. of a relatively high population density. • Localised Canal Views 14.3 Boundary Determinants This character unit follows the path of the Royal Canal, which is easily accessible at many points from The boundaries of this unit are directly derived from the local roads – and sometimes runs parallel to this the ecological designation of the canal as a proposed landscape feature. Consequently, many views of the Natural Heritage Area by the DoEHLG. canal are available, both from the local roads and from viewing points on bridges located along the 14.4 Critical Landscape Factors canal corridor. Water corridors are generally visually enclosed, with a highly localised areas of very • Smooth Terrain distinctive character and high degree of visual Smooth terrain and the generally gentle landform that consistency. characterise this landscape character unit, allow vistas over long distances without disruption where the canal flows in a straight-line direction. Consequently, development can have a disproportionate visual impact along this water corridor, due to an inherent inability to be visually absorbed by the existing topography.

72 // Kildare County Development Plan 2011–2017