Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association
Sherfield-on-Loddon
North Hampshire
Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisal
January 2016
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd Registered Office: Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby DE74 2RH Company No. 07128076. [T] 01509 672772 [F] 01509 674565 [E] [email protected] [W] www.fpcr.co.uk
This report is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without the written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd. Ordnance Survey material is used with permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896.
Rev Issue Status Prepared / Date Approved/Date - Draft 1 JJ / 09.07.2014 Draft 2 JJ / 06.01.2015 Draft 3 JJ / 07.07.2015 Draft 4 JJ / 22.07.2015 Draft 5 JJ / 11.01.2016 Landscape and Visual Appraisal fpcr
CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 3
2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 5
3.0 BASELINE CONDITIONS ...... 11
4.0 PLANNING CONTEXT ...... 23
5.0 SCHEME DESCRIPTION AND LANDSCAPE MITIGATION ...... 33
6.0 ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS ...... 35
7.0 SUMMARY ...... 43
FIGURES
Figure 1: Site Location
Figure 2: Aerial Photograph
Figure 3: Topography
Figure 4A: National Landscape Character
Figure 4B: Hampshire County Character Assessment
Figure 4C: BDBC Character Types
Figure 5: Designations & Policy
Figure 6: Photo Viewpoint Locations & Zone of Visual Influence
Figures 7: Photograph Viewpoints
Figure 8: Site Photographs
Figure 9: BDBC Green Infrastructure Strategy
Figure 10: BDBC Landscape Capacity Study
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Landscape Effects Schedule
Appendix B: Visual Effects Schedule
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 This is a Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisal prepared by FPCR Environment and Design Ltd as part of an Outline Planning Application for residential development on land north of Goddards Lane, Sherfield-on-Loddon, North Hampshire.
1.2 Gladman Developments Ltd proposes a residential development and associated green infrastructure with public open space. The proposed development is described within the Design and Access Statement submitted as part of the planning application.
1.3 The site location and its context are shown in Figures 1 and 2.
1.4 For ease of description and for clarity, the report refers to the application site as the site and the development proposals as presented by the outline planning application and by the Masterplan as the Proposed Development.
1.5 The purpose of the report is to provide an assessment of the Proposed Development and the resulting landscape and visual effects on the receiving landscape and visual resource. The landscape and visual effects have been considered in relation to the proposed land uses and parameters that are defined on the application’s Masterplan.
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2.0 METHODOLOGY
Principles and Overview
2.1 The report is undertaken as a standalone ‘appraisal’ and is based upon the guidance contained within the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition (GLVIA3)1, published by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, April 2013.
2.2 In summary the GVLIA3 states : "Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), is a tool used to identify and assess the significance of, and the effects of, change resulting from development on both landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people's views and visual amenity (1.3)"
LVIA may be carried out either formally as part of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), or informally, as a contribution to the 'appraisal' of development proposals and planning applications. Both are important and the broad principles and the core of the approach is similar in each case (1.3).
As a standalone 'appraisal' the process is informal and there is more flexibility, but the essence of the approach -specifying the nature of the proposed change or development; describing the existing landscape and the views and the visual amenity in the area that may be affected; predicting the effects, although not their likely significance; and considering how these effects might be mitigated- still applies (3.2)
2.3 There are two components which are described separately within this report:-
Assessment of landscape effects; assessing effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right; and
Assessment of visual effects; assessing effects on specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people.
2.4 The GLVIA3 recognises that professional judgement is a very important part of the process, and states that whilst there is some scope for quantitative measurements of some relatively objective matters, much of the assessment must rely on qualitative judgements (para 2.23).
2.5 In terms of baseline studies, the assessment provides an understanding of the landscape in the area to be affected, its constituent elements, character, condition and value. For the visual baseline this includes an understanding of the area in which the Proposed Development may be visible, the people who may experience views, and the nature of views.
2.6 Effects are determined by making judgement about two components:-
The nature of the receptor likely to be affected (known by the shorthand 'sensitivity') and;
The nature of the effect likely to occur (known by the shorthand 'magnitude').
2.7 Judgements on sensitivity are made by considering:-
The susceptibility of the receptor to the type of change arising from the specific proposal; and
The value attached to the receptor.
2.8 Judgements on magnitude are made by considering:-
1 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, April 2013
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The size and scale of the effect, for example whether there is a complete loss of a particular element of the landscape or a minor change;
The geographical extent of the area that will be affected; and
The duration of the effect and its reversibility.
2.9 In terms of mitigation, primary measures to prevent/avoid, reduce and, where possible, offset or remedy any adverse effects are developed through the iterative design process of the Proposed Development. This is described by the report and is included within the overall assessment of effects.
Assessment of Landscape Effects
2.10 GLVIA3 states that
“An assessment of landscape effects deals with the effects of change and development on landscape as a resource”.
2.11 The baseline landscape is described by reference to existing landscape character assessments, and by a description of the site and its immediate context.
2.12 A range of landscape effects can arise through development. These can include:
Change or loss of elements, features, aesthetic or perceptual aspects that contribute to the character and distinctiveness of the landscape;
Addition of new elements that influence character and distinctiveness of the landscape; and
Combined effects of these changes.
2.13 These are discussed in the assessment.
Susceptibility to Change and Value of the Landscape Receptor
2.14 The characteristics of the existing landscape resource are considered in respect of the susceptibility of the landscape resource to the change arising from the development.
2.15 The value of the existing landscape is also considered. GLVIA3 indicates information that contributes to understanding landscape value. This information is set out in paragraph 5.20 of the GLVIA3 and includes:-
Information about areas recognised by statute such as National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty;
Information about Heritage Coasts, where relevant;
Local planning documents, for local landscape designations;
Information on individual or groups of features such as conservation areas, listed buildings, special historic or cultural sites;
Art and literature identifying value attached to particular areas or views; and
Material on landscape of local or community interest.
2.16 Where there is no clear existing evidence on landscape value, an appraisal is made based on the following factors, based on the guidance in GLVIA3:-
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Landscape quality (condition);
Scenic quality;
Rarity;
Representativeness;
Conservation interest;
Recreation value;
Perceptual aspects; and
Associations.
Magnitude of Landscape Effects
2.17 Each effect on landscape receptors is assessed in terms of size or scale, geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility.
2.18 The judgement takes account of the extent of the existing landscape elements that will be lost or changed, and the degree to which the aesthetic or perceptual aspects or key characteristics of the landscape will be altered by removal or addition of new elements. This assessment describes scale and size by reference to the terms of 'High',' Medium' and 'Low'.
2.19 The geographical extent of the effect is described by reference to the site, its immediate context and wider landscape character areas. The duration and reversibility of effects are also described.
Landscape Effects
2.20 The overall landscape effects are determined by considering the sensitivity of the landscape receptors and the magnitude of effect on the landscape.
2.21 The landscape sensitivity is determined by considering the susceptibility to change and the value of the landscape receptor. Judgements about the susceptibility to change are recorded on a scale of 'High', 'Medium' and 'Low'. The value of the landscape is recorded on a scale of 'National', 'Regional' or 'Local'. The magnitude of landscape change is defined in terms of 'High', 'Medium', 'Low' or 'Negligible'.
2.22 The GLVIA3 notes, at paragraph 5.46, that there can be complex relationships between the value attached to landscape receptors, and their susceptibility to change. As an example, a nationally valued landscape does not automatically have a high susceptibility to all types of change. Final conclusions regarding landscape effects are drawn from the assessment components.
Assessment of Visual Effects
2.23 An assessment of visual effects deals with the effects of change on the views available to people and their visual amenity.
2.24 Field evaluation has been used to establish a series of viewpoints and representative viewpoints. The viewpoints include:-
Views to aid description of the site itself (where considered appropriate);
Public viewpoints, including rights of way and open access land;
Public locations representing residential areas (where possible);
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Transport routes; and
Places where people work.
2.25 The views also represent what can be seen from a variety of distances from the Proposed Development, and thus different viewing experiences.
Sensitivity of Visual Receptors
2.26 For each affected viewpoint the assessment considers both susceptibility to change in views and the value attached to views.
2.27 The visual receptors most susceptible to change are generally likely to include:-
Residents at home;
People engaged in outdoor recreation, including use of public rights of way, whose attention or interest is likely to be focused on the landscape or particular views;
Visitors to heritage assets or other attractions, where views of surroundings are an important contributor to the experience; and
Communities where views contribute to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents in the area.
2.28 Travellers on road rail or other transport routes tend to fall into an intermediate category of susceptibility to change. Where travel involves recognised scenic routes, awareness of views is likely to be higher.
2.29 Visual receptors less likely to be sensitive to change include:-
People engaged in outdoor sport or recreation which does not involve or depend upon appreciation of views of the landscape; and
People at their place of work whose attention may be focused on their work or activity, not on their surroundings.
2.30 Judgements about susceptibility to change are recorded in this appraisal on a scale of ‘High’, ‘Medium’ and ‘Low’.
2.31 Judgements on the value attached to views experienced, take account of:-
Recognition of the value attached to particular views, for example in relation to heritage assets, or through planning designations; and
Indicators of the value attached to views by visitors, for example through appearances in guidebooks or visitor maps.
2.32 Judgements on visual value in this assessment are noted in terms of ‘High’, ‘Medium’ and ‘Low’.
Visual Effects
2.33 Each of the visual effects is evaluated in terms of its size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration or reversibility.
2.34 In terms of size or scale, the magnitude of visual effects takes account of:-
The scale of the change in the view with respect to the loss or addition of features in the view and changes in its composition, including proportion of the view occupied by the Proposed Development;
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The degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape with the existing or remaining landscape elements and characteristics; and
The nature of the view of the Proposed Development, in terms of the relative amount of time over which it will be experienced and whether views will be full, partial or glimpsed (minimal).
2.35 The geographical extent of the visual effect in each viewpoint is likely to reflect:-
The angle of view in relation to the main activity of the receptor;
The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development; and
The extent of the area over which the changes will be visible.
2.36 As with landscape effects, the duration of the effect could be short to long term or permanent and the same definitions apply.
Overall Landscape and Visual Effects
2.37 The final conclusions on effects, whether adverse or beneficial, are drawn from the separate judgements on the sensitivity of the receptors and the magnitude of the effects, alongside reasoned professional judgement.
2.38 The GLVIA3 Statement of Clarification2 states that: “For Non-EIA Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisal
In carrying out appraisals, the same principles and process as LVIA may be applied but, in so doing, it is not required to establish whether the effects arising are or are not significant given that the exercise is not being undertaken for EIA purposes. The emphasis of ‘significant effects’ in formal LVIA stresses the need for an approach that is proportional to the scale of the project that is being assessed and the nature of its likely effects. The same principle -focussing on a proportional approach – also applies to appraisals of landscape and visual impacts”
2.39 For this assessment, the following descriptive thresholds have been used with regard to effects:-
Major: an effect considered very important in the decision making process.
Moderate: an effect that is notable and one that is generally considered to be material in the decision making process.
Minor: an effect that will be noticed, but is not considered to be an important factor in the decision making process; and
Negligible: an effect that will be discernible, but of very limited consequences and one that not important or relevant to the decision process.
Study Area
2.40 The Study Area for this report has been defined by the field work undertaken as part of the baseline field work stage. The Study Area includes the site and the surrounding landscape, where there may be potential landscape and visual effects (direct, indirect, short term or long term) as a result of the Proposed Development. The Study Area is shown on Figure 2 Aerial Photograph.
2 GLVIA3 Statement of Clarification 1/13, 10th June 2013
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3.0 BASELINE CONDITIONS
Site description
3.1 The site is outlined in red on Figure 2: Aerial Photograph.
3.2 The site is situated at the western edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon village and comprises of one field currently under arable use. Consequently it is lacking in any significant vegetation cover or other internal features of value.
3.3 The site boundaries are well contained by existing features:
Goddards Lane forms the southern site boundary. Goddards Lane is narrow, sunken and enclosed by roadside hedgerows with occasional trees. The historic farm complex at Carpenters Farmhouse, off Goddards Lane abuts the site’s south western boundary.
Modern residential development situated by Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bulls Down Close abut the eastern site boundary and includes bungalows as well as two storey properties.
Trees and scrub along the Bow Brook corridor are situated adjacent to the site’s northern site boundary
An established field hedgerow with a few mature trees forms the western site boundary.
Site Context
3.4 The site context is shown on Figure 2: The Aerial Photograph.
3.5 The sites context includes settlements, lanes, roads, railway, electricity pylons, agricultural land, woodlands and watercourses and floodplain. Sherfield-on-Loddon extends northwards to floodplains associated with the Bow Brook and the River Loddon. The A33 defines the western extent of Sherfield-on-Loddon. Other villages in the surrounding area include Bramley and Bramley Green situated over 0.5km away to the north east of the site whilst Bramley Camp (Army Training Camp) lies 0.5km to the west. Larger scale residential development occurs at Chineham approximately 1.5km to the south west, which lies on the outskirts of Basingstoke. The Reading to Basingstoke railway line passes through Bramley and Chineham.
3.6 Locally increased vegetation cover includes woodlands, copses and tree belts which feature within the local landscape including along the Bow Brook, River Lodden at Bramley Camp and Bulls Down Camp (a designated scheduled monument).
3.7 The historic core of Sherfield-on-Loddon is a designated Conservation Area. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council have prepared a Conservation Area Appraisal for the village. The site is separated from the main part of the Conservation Area by existing residential development situated by Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bulls Down Close. Goddards Lane and Carpenters Farmhouse are situated adjacent to the site are also included within the Conservation Area. The farmhouse is listed and the adjoining buildings are identified as notable. The group of buildings are identified as
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important in terminating views along Goddard Lane. An important general view of the wider landscape setting is also identified from Goddards Lane across the south eastern part of the site.
Topography
3.8 The following text should be read in conjunction with Figure 3: Topography Plan.
3.9 The site is situated on gently sloping land which falls to the north and west. Levels within the site adjacent to the existing residential edge fall towards Bow Brook; from 67m AOD by Goddards Lane to 55m AOD in the north eastern corner of the site. Similarly levels fall northwards along the western edge of the site from 65m by Goddards Lane to 55m AOD by the Bow Brook corridor. Goddards Lane runs along the site’s southern boundary and is sunken within a grass verge approximately 1m high. The lane is at approximately 66m AOD by the site’s south eastern boundary and 68m AOD by the site’s south western boundary.
3.10 The lower lying floodplain along Bow Brook lies outside of the site. Topography within the wider landscape beyond the site is more varied where low hills and shallow valley landforms occur along the River Lodden. Low hills are present to the north of the site at Bulls Down Camp (65m AOD) and to the south at Gully Copse (81m AOD).
Landscape Character
3.11 The following section details published Character Assessments of relevance to the site and its local setting. This should be read in conjunction with Figure 4: Landscape Character Plan.
National Landscape Character
3.12 The National Character Areas (NCAs), mapped by Natural England, divide England into 159 distinct natural areas. Each is defined by a unique combination of landscape, biodiversity, geodiversity and cultural and economic activity. Their boundaries follow natural lines in the landscape rather than administrative boundaries, making them a good decision making framework for the natural environment.
3.13 The site is situated within the National Character Area Profile No. 129 Thames Basin Heaths. This describes the very broad landscape context and character of the wide geographic area which stretches westwards from Weybridge in Surrey to the countryside around Newbury in Berkshire. This character area covers a wide and diverse landscape, of which the site landscape is only a small part. Consequently only some key characteristics for this NCA are relevant to the local landscape. Key extracts are described as follows:-
Arable land and improved pasture are found in the valleys, on alluvium.
Beyond the large areas of heathland and woodland, there is a patchwork of small to medium-sized fields with woods. The legacy of historic hunting forests includes veteran trees, ancient woods, ancient hedgerows and parklands. Historic meadows remain as fragments along watercourses.
Prehistoric earthworks such as barrows and hill forts mark promontories on the plateaux.
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Mosaics of open heathland and grassland with scrub, secondary woodland and plantation. Valley bogs, ponds and streams enhance diversity.
Historic commons offer tranquillity and unenclosed views, while other rights of access are enjoyed across farmland, canals and downland. Ministry of Defence ownership restricts (but does not entirely prevent) public enjoyment.
Valley floors are wet with ditches, numerous watercourses, ponds, waterfilled gravel pits, reedbeds and carr. Historic features include mills, relict water meadows, and canals such as the River Wey Navigations.
20th-century conurbations, including Camberley, sprawl along the Blackwater Valley, with associated roads (including the M3) dissecting heathland and woodland into blocks. Elsewhere, there are winding lanes and historic dispersed villages and farmsteads of traditional, locally-made brick and tile.
3.14 The National Character Area Profile identifies key drivers for change, these include ongoing development:-
Ongoing development interests will drive change, potentially increasing local populations. Growth could bring negative or unsustainable impacts upon the landscape. Planning decisions will steer modern development and this steer will potentially be towards accommodating existing historic features and reflecting traditional construction and settlement patterns.
3.15 Landscape opportunities identified include:-
Maintain the wooded character of the area, recognising that conifers as well as native species can positively contribute to landscape character in some places. Conserve historic hedgerows and protect veteran trees in any location in order to maintain the biodiversity and landscape value of these features…
Adapt existing roads and plan new roads to minimise negative visual and noise impacts and accommodate for species movements and public access links. Avoid further fragmentation and destruction of habitats and historic landscapes. In relation to roads and also the urban edge, adapt existing and design new woods and tree belts to provide good sound and visual barriers while also catering for public access into the wider countryside.
Encourage traditional building styles and materials, particularly where there has been a loss of distinctiveness of local character in the built environment. Target the restoration of key historic buildings within settlements and maintain historic settlement patterns.
3.16 Four ‘Statements of Environmental Opportunities’ are set out within the profile:-
SEO 1: At a catchment scale, manage and create woodlands, highway verges, field margins, reedbeds and other features in urban and rural settings to intercept run-off and to filter pollutants. In the heavily developed flood plains of the Blackwater and Thames, adapt the urban environment to manage floodwaters, and restore or enhance modified watercourses.
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For example, by:
Making reference to Catchment Flood Management Plans, the Water Framework Directive (WFD), green infrastructure strategies...
Across all catchments – but particularly where surface waters and groundwaters are of poor quality – addressing sources of pollution, intercepting pollutants and run-off, and protecting watercourses, in line with the WFD. New and existing features (such as hedgerows, field margins, woodlands, routeways and buffer strips) can be managed as interceptors. These features should also protect against soil erosion and reinforce field patterns so as to maintain biodiversity and the sense of place.
Engaging urban residents, developers, planners, sewage and water companies in devising solutions to address the problems of unsustainable water consumption, flooding and water pollution. Raising awareness of the pollution and flooding that can be the result of poorly designed drainage.
Designing buildings, roads, urban green spaces and other spaces to manage and store water and pollutants. Providing floodwater storage where appropriate…Working with planners and developers to build sustainable urban drainage systems.
SEO 2: Maximise the variety of ecosystem services delivered by wooded features – from wet woodlands in the Kennet Valley to the large conifer plantations around Camberley and new woodlands. Conserve soils, water, biodiversity and the sense of place and history; enhance timber and biomass production; and provide for recreation and tranquillity as appropriate.
For example, by:
Making reference to local Forest Design Plans, green infrastructure strategies, biodiversity strategies and wood fuel strategies.
Acknowledging the role played by both native and non-native conifer species in this area’s landscape character, history and ecosystem service delivery; managing established trees and woodlands accordingly. When re-stocking or planting new woodlands in places where the conservation of wildlife is an objective, planting tree species that will provide a suitable habitat.
As appropriate, locating new woodlands, hedgerows and hedgerow trees to reflect historic distribution patterns
Managing and, where appropriate, planting trees to screen eyesores and to improve tranquillity. Selecting tree species and designing these buffers in ways that positively contribute to landscape character…
Where public access is possible, designing new woodlands and managing existing woodlands to sustainably meet the recreation needs of the local population…
SEO 3: Enhance the sense of history and biodiversity by conserving, restoring and building the resilience of long-established habitats such as heathland, ancient woodland and meadows, and of archaeology such as hill forts. Work at a landscape scale to conserve and restore key attributes of the historic hunting forests (such as Eversley) and historic common land. Engage the public in enjoying this heritage.
For example, by:
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Drawing on Landscape Character Assessments, Historic Environment Characterisation work, green infrastructure strategies and biodiversity strategies, to understand and manage existing and historic mosaics of land use and habitat.
Conserving the patchwork of ancient hedgerows, historic routes, historic boundary patterns, historic meadows, veteran trees, ancient woodlands, long-established permanent pasture and long-established arable fields.
Engaging and working with local communities and visitors to understand how the landscape has evolved, and to manage any future change in partnership with stakeholders.
SEO 4: With a focus on the Blackwater Valley, Newbury and nearby major settlements such as Reading, provide good-quality green infrastructure (incorporating commons, woodlands and restored gravel pits) to facilitate people’s sustainable engagement with the local landscape. In doing so, also seek benefits for wildlife, water quality, flood amelioration and climate regulation.
For example, by:
Making reference to for example green infrastructure strategies, Rights of Way Improvement Plans. Drawing on best practice developed in the Thames Basin Heaths SPA in relation to securing environmentally sustainable recreation.
…regularly review the recreation needs of and provision for both local populations and visitors, particularly in light of residential development proposals. Addressing any gaps in provision – including quality and range of greenspace – through various mechanisms including securing greenspace alongside new residential development.
3.17 The National Character Area Profile covers an extensive area of land. The details contained within its analysis, therefore, only describe the very broad landscape context of the site. No points or details are included within this description that relate more specifically to the landscape/townscape of the site context or to the application site itself.
Hampshire County
Integrated Character Assessment
May 2012
3.18 The Hampshire assessment complements the Borough’s assessment by providing a strategic overview. No assessment of landscape sensitivity is provided by in the Hampshire Integrated Character Assessment. The site lies within the Loddon Valley Forest of Eversley West character area within the Landscape Type Lowland Mosaic – small scale.
3.19 The character area is broadly defined by the valley and tributaries of the River Loddon. It lies to the north of the chalk downs and extends to the County boundary with West Berkshire. Key characteristics and other relevant extracts from the Loddon Valley Forest of Eversley West character area are provided below:
Low lying gently undulating landscape divided on a north-south axis by the shallow, broad valley of the River Loddon.
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A poorly draining landscape, dissected by a network of often wooded streams and minor tributaries. It contains a mosaic of habitats supporting a rich and varied biodiversity.
Distant views of continuous plantation woodland on elevated sand and gravel plateaux in adjoining character areas to the east and west.
Thick hedges often with banks and ditches and many ancient trees. A high density of public rights of way and permissive access network. A secluded intimate feel, and a sense the landscape has had a long history of small settlement and farms by the presence of timber framed and old brick small farm buildings.
Early disafforestation of medieval deer parks in the 14th century, resulting in an assarted landscape in which woodland has become increasingly fragmented. Fields have been reorganised but generally retain their irregular pattern.
A significant concentration of large historic parks and gardens, such as Stratfield Saye, Tylney Hall and The Vyne.
A high density dispersed settlement pattern which has mid medieval origins and remains relatively little altered, including a concentration of medieval moated sites. Villages often have greens.
GHQ defence line.
High voltage power lines stride through the landscape.
Experiential/Perceptual Characteristics
The high proportion of woodland within and adjoining this character area creates a strong sense of enclosure, with longer views only possible from areas of more open or higher ground. The well wooded landscape, often with ancient trees, numerous streams and a wealth of traditional buildings in quiet hamlets with limited modern development contribute to a sense of tranquillity. This contrasts strongly with the intrusion of major roads including the M3 and the A33, and significant extents of modern development around Hook, Chineham and North Basingstoke suburbs and Bramley. The frequent occurrence of high voltage power lines which tower above the woodland and fields emphasise the proximity to large centres of population even in secluded locations. Biodiversity Character This is a lowland agricultural landscape comprising mainly agricultural grasslands and woodland. Within the arable areas there are patches of improved grassland which tend to be smaller and less frequent in the north and larger and occur in a mosaic with woodland in the south. There are also patches of unimproved and semi-improved neutral grasslands which are more frequent and larger in the south and amenity grassland and sports pitches throughout the area, often associated with urban areas. Built Environment The minor road and lane network winds through the landscape and is comparatively dense. Routes (often with dog legs and corners) have origins in piecemeal establishment of the network to serve the high density farm and early settlement pattern. ‘A’ roads from Basingstoke include the A30, A33, and A287 and have probably developed from realigning and straightening the original lanes.
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The area feels busy with fast moving traffic, which is cited as a deterrent to cycle users in the countryside access plan58, but the lanes away from the major routes can be quiet. Many villages and hamlets are associated with greens and small commons e.g. Bramley, Turgis Green and Sherfield-on-Loddon…The quality of the historic built environment is reflected by numerous and extensive Conservation Areas
3.20 Key characteristics and other relevant extracts from the Landscape Type Lowland Mosaic – small scale are provided below:
Often small enclosures, small areas of woodland and undulating topography which produces the sense of a small scale landscape. Associated mostly with small chalk fed streams apart from where they border the New Forest perambulation where they are more acidic. Generally, high to very high density of dispersed small farmsteads and hamlets and associated with nucleated spring line settlements in the south and north Hampshire lowlands. Small semi natural and ancient woodland copses and hedges of varying character. Frequently a high density of public rights of way and winding lanes. Varying periods and types of enclosure but generally small scale but has some of the earliest enclosures out of all the lowland mosaic types – perhaps indicating less marginal and richer soils. Particular association with hamlets and villages of medieval and Saxon origin often associated with wood and wood clearance.
Experiential Access and transport routes: Moderate PRoW network density (rural lanes, bridleways and footpaths) emanating from settlements. Generally minor road network which tends to be quite dense Tranquillity: Not identified as being tranquil, but mapped as transitional areas between low and moderate tranquillity levels in the CPRE 2006 work.
Biodiversity The Lowland Mosaic Small Scale landscape character type is a wooded agricultural landscape comprising improved grassland and arable land with woodland, unimproved grassland and occasional heath associated habitats. Hedgerows are of various form and typically have mature trees. There is active coppice with standards and active coppice without standards in this landscape. Hazel coppice with oak and ash standards is a widespread habitat in Hampshire relating from the historical production of wattle sheep hurdling.
Historic Built Environment Building materials and type: Traditionally local clay tile and brick were used. There also tends to be a higher proportion of pre 1750 and timber framed buildings than other lowland types.
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Visibility Prominency: Locally low lying, intervisibility with other landscape types reduced because of the latter’s relatively high presence of woodland. Enclosure: Very enclosed intimate landscape, due to the small fields with high hedges and the higher surrounding land. Public perceptions: Although close to large centres of population of central southern Hampshire, the landscape is still very rural and valued as local countryside, visible from often heavily trafficked rural roads.
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Landscape Assessment
Landscape Design Associates June 2001
3.21 The site lies immediately adjacent to the settlement Sherfield-on-Loddon in the Loddon and Lyde Valley character area within Landscape Type FW2 Mixed farmland and woodland. This character area covers a broad tract of landscape extending from Old Basing, Chineham and Basingstoke eastwards and northwards to the Borough boundary. Loddon and Lyde Valley’s key characteristics and other relevant extracts are provided below:
broad, shallow valley sides of the River Lyde and River Loddon that meander through, and unify, the varying landscape types;
…The flat, lowlying valley floor pasture has a distinctive pattern of drainage ditches, willow-lined watercourses, water meadows and an often pastoral, remote character;
generally unspoilt, quiet and rural character, and a sense of remoteness in less accessible parts of the river valley, but with intrusion by major roads, the railway and electricity pylons in some areas, and by an incinerator immediately east of Chineham;
relatively large-scale, open arable fields with low, well-trimmed hedgerows and infrequent woodland in the north and far south, reflecting 17th - 18th century informal enclosure and late 18th – 19th century parliamentary enclosure respectively;
relatively low intervisibility within the area, due to landform and vegetation minimising views, but more extensive views possible in the more open northern and southern landscapes;
low settlement density, with dispersed villages, hamlets and isolated farmsteads, linked by a network of narrow winding roads, except for the adjoining urban areas of Basingstoke and Chineham and the village of Old Basing;
many historic landscape features across the area, from medieval moated sites, deer parks, hunting lodges and castles, to scheduled ancient monuments including Bulls Down Camp Iron Age hillfort and remnant enclosed strips and furlongs in Stratfield Saye parish. Old mills, which have contributed to the Valley’s development, add to the sense of place. Location and boundaries This character area lies in the north-east of the Borough with its northern and eastern edge defined by the Borough boundary. Its southern boundary defines the extent of the Loddon and Lyde valley system. The western boundary is formed partly by Old Basing, Chineham and Basingstoke and partly by changes in relief and vegetation characteristics.
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Formative influences Much of the Loddon and Lyde Valley was probably incorporated into the medieval Royal Forests of Pamber and of Eversley. Despite the royal protection, patches of woodland were cleared for agriculture and settlements in the medieval and post-medieval periods although some woodland patches have survived. Overall Landscape Character This is a diverse landscape of varying landcover and degrees of enclosure, ranging from mixed farmland and woodland on clay to arable chalklands… Basingstoke and Chineham exert an urban influence on the immediate south-western edge of the character area. Outside this urban area and the village of Old Basing, settlement density is low, with a number of villages, hamlets and isolated farmsteads scattered throughout the area, accessed through a network of narrow winding roads. In these parts the landscape retains a particularly peaceful, rural character, although the quietness is disturbed in those areas near to the M3, A30, A33 and the railway. Key issues
loss of broadleaf woodlands; extensive hedgerow removal in the past, and general decline in condition of hedgerows and trees (with frequent stag-headed trees), particularly within more open arable landscapes on clay areas to the north;
management of hedgerows (and retention of tree saplings within them), and field patterns of historic significance;
management of road verges and hedgebanks and damage from scrub encroachment, road improvements and legacy of agrochemical use on adjacent farmland;
lack of permanent grass field margins, including uncultivated buffer strips next to rivers, streams and other sensitive wildlife habitats;
reduction in biodiversity levels through agricultural practices;
some localised visual intrusion and noise from built development and roads, especially around the fringes of Basingstoke, and near the M3, A33, A30 and the railway, which have an impact on the tranquility of immediate areas;
the intrusion caused by the high number of electricity pylons/lines north, east and south- east of Bramley/Bramley Green, and also north of Old Basing, along the River Loddon;
3.22 Key characteristics and other relevant extracts from the Landscape Type FW2 Mixed farmland and woodland are provided below:
Mixed farmland and woodland
These represent the most extensive landscape types across the northern part of the Borough and form a distinctive and highly complex mosaic of mixed farmland and woodland of varying scales and degrees of enclosure. There are no strongly discernible heathy characteristics to the vegetation. Species common in hedgerows and woods tend towards those more typical of neutral or calcareous soils, such as oak, ash, field maple, dogwood etc. Fields tend to be irregular in
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shape and bounded by thick hedgerows, mature trees and blocks of woodland, creating a strong sense of enclosure and intimacy. The complex pattern of small-scale valleys, which cross this area from the edge of the chalk to the River Enborne, add to this diversity and enclosure. Some areas have a larger-scale pattern of farmland and are less enclosed by woodland.
Landscape Designations
3.23 This should be read in conjunction with Figure 5: Landscape Designations and Planning Policy.
No designations apply to the site or its context with regard to landscape value. The site is located within an area identified as a ‘Strategic Gap’ within the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Revised Pre-Submission Local Plan 2011 to 2029
3.24 The site is well related to the existing urban edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon and is visually enclosed. Proposed residential development of the site would not result in any significant visual effect upon any settlements within the wider landscape. The Proposed Development would not result in any detrimental effect upon the strategic gap. 3.25 As described above the historic core of Sherfield-on-Loddon, Goddards Lane and the farm complex at Carpenters Farmhouse situated adjacent to the site are included within the Conservation Area.
Local Landscape Character
3.26 The published landscape character assessments at a National and County level include descriptions of the key characteristics of landscape, however they do not seek to evaluate landscape sensitivity.
3.27 The landscape in which the proposed development would be located draws on the character of the National ‘Thames Basin Heaths’ (NCA 129), Hampshire County ‘Loddon Valley Forest of Eversley West’ Landscape Type Lowland Mosaic and the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council ‘Loddon and Lyde Valley’ character area, Landscape Type FW2 Mixed farmland and woodland, but is also influenced by local landscape characteristics.
3.28 The Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study undertaken on behalf of BDBC in 2010 provides an overall assessment of landscape and visual sensitivity. The site falls within the Local Character Area BA07 – West Sherfield which lies immediately adjacent to the settlement Sherfield-on-Loddon.
3.29 The Capacity Study considers that the Local Character Area BA07 – West Sherfield has an overall landscape sensitivity of Medium/High and an overall visual sensitivity of Medium. However the Capacity Study acknowledges that the overall assessment given to any area does not mean that the assessment applies to the whole area – it may apply to one part of it. Further detailed assessment of the areas will be required.
3.30 This detailed landscape character and visual assessment includes an appraisal of sensitivity based upon local site survey and analysis (as recommended at paragraph 5.28 of the GLVIA3). Sensitivity is determined by considering the susceptibility to change and the value of the landscape receptor.
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3.31 From the initial site analysis of local landscape character a number of conclusions have been drawn, as follows:-
The landscape context of the study area is varied in character. The site is situated immediately adjacent to the western residential edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon and to the north of Goddards Lane. Existing residential properties on Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bulls Down Close abut the site. The wider landscape includes settlements, lanes, roads, railway, electricity pylons, agricultural land, woodlands and watercourses and floodplain. As well as Sherfield-on-Loddon, other settlement within the area includes villages at Bramley and Bramley Green, scattered hamlets and numerous other isolated properties and farmsteads. Larger scale residential development occurs at Chineham to the south west, which lies on the outskirts of Basingstoke. The British Army training camp (Bramley Camp) is located 0.5km away to the west of the site between Chineham and Bramley. The site comprises of one field currently under arable use. Consequently it is lacking in any significant vegetation cover or other internal features of value. Established field hedgerows and hedgerow trees are present along the western site boundary and alongside Goddards Lane. Locally increased vegetation cover occurs along the Bow Brook and its associated floodplain which runs adjacent to the sites northern boundary. Other woodlands, copses and tree belts are present within the wider landscape including along the River Lodden at Bramley Camp and Bulls Down Camp (a designated scheduled monument). Goddards Lane and the farm complex at Carpenters Farmhouse situated adjacent to the site are included within the Conservation Area. Views of the site from Goddards Lane and the farm complex are partially restricted by the hedgerow and trees present along the narrow lane. Such views are also seen within the context of existing modern residential development situated by Goddards Close and Bow Drive. The site is situated on a gently sloping, low lying land which falls towards Bow Brook. Topography within the wider landscape beyond the site is more varied where low hills and valley landforms along Bow Brook and the River Loddon occur. Low hills are present to the north of the site at Bulls Down Camp (65m AOD) and to the south at Gully Copse (81m AOD). The site is visually well contained due to a combination of the local topography, established vegetation cover and existing urban fabric. Existing peripheral landscape features would provide an established landscape framework which will assist in assimilating development within the landscape. The site is assessed as having a low-medium landscape sensitivity to change.
Visual Context
3.32 The interaction of urban fabric, vegetation and topography determines the potential for views to the site. A comprehensive visual assessment of the site and has been undertaken. Key representative viewpoints have been selected to explore the potential visibility of the proposed development and these enable a Zone of Visual Influence to be determined. The majority of views have been selected to represent the maximum potential visibility of the site and the potential future development. However a small number of views have also been included to demonstrate that the site is not visible from publicly accessible locations. Receptors encompass residents, users of rights of way, open spaces and recreational facilities, travellers and people at work. In overall
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terms, the first two categories are generally of higher sensitivity than the latter two, although the context of individual receptors can have a bearing on sensitivity.
3.33 In addition to the key viewpoints, photographs have been included to show internal views across the site. The viewpoint locations are shown at Figure 6 and the photographs at Figure 7. Written descriptions are provided alongside each photograph. Key findings are summarised below:-
The site has a very restricted visual envelope owing to the interaction of localised variations in topography, existing vegetation cover and urban fabric along the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon. Belts of trees along Bow Brook and woodland located on the hill at Bulls Down Camp provides visual containment of the site to the north. Woodland at Bramley Camp and low hill at Gully Copse provide visual containment of the site to west and south respectively. Views of the site are well screened from the vast majority of properties within Sherfield-on- Loddon. Views are largely restricted to properties situated adjacent to the site’s eastern boundary. Close range views of the site occur from residential properties situated at Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bulls Down Close which abut the site’s eastern boundary. A range of views occur depending upon the property type (bungalows or two storey) their location, aspect and degree of screening provided by rear gardens. Close range northerly views of the site occur from the detached residential property (Carpenter’s Farmhouse) which abuts the site’s western boundary. Existing vegetation cover including trees and hedgerow partially screen easterly views of the site from other buildings at the farm complex. Views of the site from two other detached residential properties situated along Goddards Lane are more restricted. Existing hedgerow and trees are present along Goddards Lane and within the garden at the Bowlings, which effectively screens the site from view. Northerly views of the site and existing residential properties along Goddards Close from Little Bowlings Farm are partially screened by mature trees and hedgerow along Goddards Lane. Views along Goddards Lane are very enclosed by the hedgerow, trees and grass verge present along the narrow sunken lane. Consequently views of the site and also views of Carpenters Farmhouse from Goddards Lane are much restricted. Localised gaps within the hedgerow vegetation cover by Carpenters Farmhouse and Little Bowlings Farm enable partial filtered views of the site. Such glimpsed views of the site are seen within the context of existing residential development situated by Goddards Close and Bow Drive. There are no significant longer distance views of the site available from Goddards Lane or Goddard’s Farm. There are no significant views of the site available from public rights of way within the surrounding landscape. Existing hedgerows and trees situated within the intervening landscape along field boundaries and Goddards Lane effectively screen the site within views from public footpaths to the south and west.
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4.0 PLANNING CONTEXT
4.1 This section identifies the current relevant planning and legislative framework in the context of the landscape and visual issues. Not all policies are referred or listed in full but those of greatest landscape and visual relevance to the site are included.
National Context
4.2 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)3 sets a ‘presumption in favour of sustainable development’ and includes general policy guidance on Green Infrastructure, landscape character and good quality design.
4.3 At paragraph 14 the NPPF states
“At the heart of the National Planning Policy Framework is a presumption in favour of sustainable development, which should be seen as a golden thread running through both plan-making and decision-taking... For decision-taking this means:
approving development proposals that accord with the development plan without delay; and where the development plan is absent, silent or relevant policies are out‑of‑date, granting permission unless: . any adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in this Framework taken as a whole; or . specific policies in this Framework indicate development should be restricted.9”
4.4 Footnote 9 of the NPPF identifies the specific designations protected by policy:
“For example, those policies relating to sites protected under the Birds and Habitats Directives (see paragraph 119) and/or designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest; land designated as Green Belt, Local Green Space, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Heritage Coast or within a National Park (or the Broads Authority); designated heritage assets; and locations at risk of flooding or coastal erosion.
4.5 The site does not fall within any of these designations.
4.6 At paragraph 109, the NPPF states that the planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by: "Protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, geological conservation interests and soils..."
4.7 Within the NPPF paragraph 113 makes reference to judgement of landscape, its states;
“Local planning authorities should set criteria based policies against which proposals for any development on or affecting protected wildlife or geodiversity sites or landscape areas will be judged. Distinctions should be made between the hierarchy of international, national and locally
3 The National Planning Policy Framework, 27 March 2012
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designated sites, so that protection is commensurate with their status and gives appropriate weight to their importance and the contribution that they make to wider ecological networks”.
4.8 Paragraph 114 describes how local planning authorities should consider not just networks of biodiversity but also green infrastructure, it states that they should “set out a strategic approach in their Local Plans, planning positively for the creation, protection, enhancement and management of networks of biodiversity and green infrastructure...”
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Adopted Local Plan 4
4.9 This section should be read in conjunction with Figure 5, the Landscape Designations and Planning Policy plan.
4.10 The Adopted Local Plan is the council’s key planning document and is used as the basis for all planning decisions taken within the borough. It contains policies against which development proposals can be assessed. This Adopted Local Plan forms part of the development plan for the borough, along with the South East Plan.
4.11 The following saved policies are identified as being of relevance to landscape matters:-
Policy E1 Development Control
Proposals for new development will be permitted provided that they are of a high standard of design, make efficient use of land, respect the amenities of neighbouring occupiers, and do not result in inappropriate traffic generation or compromise highway safety. All development proposals should therefore:
i. Respond to the local context of buildings in terms of design, siting, density and spacing, reinforce attractive qualities of local distinctiveness and enhance areas of poor design; extensions should respect their host building ii. Provide a comprehensive landscaping scheme, where appropriate, enabling the development to successfully integrate with the landscape and surrounds, and not result in the loss of or have a potentially adverse impact on protected trees; and vi. Create attractive public spaces, which are safe, minimise opportunities for crime, facilitate public enjoyment, and foster the legibility of the built environment
Policy E2 Buildings of Historic or Architectural Interest Proposals for development that would affect a listed building, structure or its setting will be determined against the following guidelines: i. The demolition of a listed building or structure will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances. ii. Alterations and extensions that preserve the character and/or setting of a listed building and any features of architectural or historic interest will be permitted iii. Developments within the curtilage of or adjacent to a listed building which do not detrimentally affect their setting will be permitted.
4 Basingstoke and Deane Borough Adopted Local Plan 1996-2011 (Adopted July 2006)
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Development will not be permitted if it would harm a building or feature of local historic or architectural interest or adversely affect its setting.
Policy E3 Areas of Architectural or Historic Interest Development within Conservation Areas, or on sites outside where development would affect the setting of the Conservation Area, will be permitted provided that the proposals preserve or enhance their special character or appearance. Through determining applications, the Borough Council will: i. Seek to retain buildings, architectural features, trees, spaces and other features which are important to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area; and ii. Allow new development if this would contribute to the area by preserving or enhancing its character and appearance;
Policy E6 Landscape Character Planning permission will only be granted where it is demonstrated that the proposals will be sympathetic to the landscape character and quality of the area concerned. Development proposals should contribute to the regeneration, restoration, repair or conservation of any landscape likely to be affected. In particular they should respect, and improve the following: i. the particular qualities of the relevant Landscape Character Area as defined in the Basingstoke and Deane Landscape Assessment; and ii. visual amenity and scenic quality; and iii. the setting of a settlement, including important views to, across and out of settlements; and iv. the local character of buildings and settlements, including important open areas; and v. trees, hedgerows, water features and other landscape elements and features; and vi. historic landscapes, features and elements Consideration will also be given to the impact that development would have on sense of place, sense of remoteness or tranquillity, and the quiet enjoyment of the landscape from public rights of way.
Policy E7 Nature/Biodiversity Conservation Development or a change of land use will be permitted where it will not have an adverse effect on protected species or the conservation status of priority species, harm the nature conservation interest of a statutory or non-statutory wildlife nature conservation site or lead to the loss or deterioration of a key habitat type or harm the integrity of linkages between such sites and habitats.
Policy C9 New Leisure Facilities or Open Spaces Proposals for new leisure facilities or open spaces will be permitted provided that they are in accordance with the current standards adopted by the Borough Council, and: i. Their proposed location is acceptable and their proposed design and construction will be of high quality and conform to accepted standards of good practice; and ii. Any foreseeable adverse impacts on neighbouring land uses, amenity or wildlife can be ameliorated or managed in such a way as to make them acceptable.
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Details of the leisure and open space standards adopted by the Council can be found within the Interim Planning Guidance entitled ‘Section 106 Planning Obligations and Community Infrastructure’. Provision of on-site, or a contribution to the provision off-site, of any new or enhanced leisure facilities or open spaces required to meet the reasonable needs of the residents of their developments will be sought from housing developers by the Borough Council. Unless a local surplus of open space has been identified in a comprehensive assessment, new open space will be sought on the basis of 2.8ha per 1,000 population.
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Proposed Main Modifications to the Submission Local Plan
4.12 This section should be read in conjunction with Figure 5, the Landscape Designations and Planning Policy plan.
4.13 The council is now in the process of preparing the Local Plan for Submission for examination. It is anticipated that this version of the Local Plan will be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate in Autumn 2015. The following policies relate to the natural environment.
Policy EM1 – Landscape Development will be permitted only where it can be demonstrated, through an appropriate assessment, that the proposals are sympathetic to the character and visual quality of the area concerned. Development proposals must respect, enhance and not be detrimental to the landscape likely to be affected, paying particular regard to: a) The particular qualities identified within the council’s landscape character assessment and any subsequent updates or relevant guidance; b) The visual amenity and scenic quality; c) The setting of a settlement, including important views to, across, within and out of settlements; d) The local character of buildings and settlements, including important open areas; e) Trees, ancient woodland, hedgerows, water features such as rivers and other landscape features; f) Intrinsically dark landscapes; g) Historic landscapes, parks and gardens and features; and h) The character of the borough’s rivers and tributaries, including the River Loddon and Test, which should be safeguarded. Development proposals must also respect the sense of place, sense of tranquillity or remoteness, and the quiet enjoyment of the landscape from public rights of way. Development proposals will not be accepted unless they maintain the integrity of existing settlements and prevent their coalescence. Where appropriate, proposals will be required to include a comprehensive landscaping scheme to ensure that the development would successfully integrate with the landscape and surroundings. The assessment of character and visual quality and the provision of a landscaping scheme should be proportionate to the scale and nature of the development proposed.
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Policy EM2 – Strategic Gaps In order to prevent coalescence of built up areas and to maintain the separate identity of settlements, the generally open and undeveloped nature of the following gaps will be protected: Basingstoke – Oakley Basingstoke - Sherborne St John Basingstoke - Old Basing Basingstoke/Chineham - Bramley/Sherfield-on-Loddon Tadley-Baughurst Development in gaps will only be permitted where: a) It would not diminish the physical and/or visual separation; and b) It would not compromise the integrity of the gap either individually or cumulatively with other existing or proposed development; or c) it is proposed through a Neighbourhood Plan or Neighbourhood Development Order, including Community Right to Build Orders.
Policy EM5 – Green Infrastructure Development proposals will only be permitted where they do not: a) Prejudice the delivery of the councils Green Infrastructure Strategy (and subsequent updates); b) Result in the fragmentation of the green infrastructure network by severing important corridors/links; or c) Result in undue pressure on the network which cannot be fully mitigated. The council will support proposals which seek to improve links and remedy identified deficiencies in the green infrastructure network in accordance with the council’s Green Infrastructure Strategy. The council will seek to protect and enhance existing public open space. Proposals for the redevelopment of public and private open spaces will not be permitted unless it can be clearly demonstrated that: d) Replacement areas will be at least equivalent in terms of quality, quantity and accessibility, and there will be no overall negative impact on the provision of green infrastructure; or e) A robust assessment clearly demonstrates that the space is surplus to local requirements and will not be needed in the-long term in accordance with the council’s local standards; or f) The proposal is for alternative recreational provision which meets evidence of local need in such a way as to outweigh the loss. Development proposals will be permitted where it can be clearly demonstrated that green infrastructure can be provided and phased to support the requirements of proposed development and be in accordance with the council’s adopted green space standards. Green space and equipped play will normally be provided on-site. Consideration will be given to an off-site financial contribution towards the enhancement of existing facilities, in addition to, or instead of, provision of new green space on site but only where: g) The quantity standard for the number of proposed dwellings does not result in a requirement for green space which meets the minimum size standard for a particular type; or h) It can be demonstrated that the needs of new residents can be met in this way without adversely impacting on the needs of existing residents.
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Policy EM10 - Delivering High Quality Development All development proposals will be of high quality, based upon a robust design-led approach. 1. Development proposals (excluding household extensions) will be permitted where they: a) Contribute to the provision of neighbourhoods and places for work and leisure that are well connected, accessible, safe, easy for people to find their way around and, function well in practical terms b) Are accessible to all and promote buildings that are durable, adaptable and able to respond to changing social, environmental, technological and economic conditions; c) Positively contribute to the appearance and use of streets and other public spaces; d) Promote the efficient use of land and achieve appropriate housing densities which respond to the local context, as informed by community documents25, and which take into account the urban, suburban or rural location of the site; e) Provide a co-ordinated and comprehensive scheme that does not prejudice the future development or design of adjoining sites; and f) Minimise energy consumption through sustainable approaches to design. 2. All development proposals will be required to respect the local environment and amenities of neighbouring properties in accordance with the principles set out below. Development proposals will be permitted where they: a) Positively contribute to local distinctiveness, the sense of place and the existing street scene, taking into account all relevant SPDs and community documents that identify the local character and distinctiveness of an area which is valued by local communities, whilst allowing for innovation where appropriate; b) Provide a high quality of amenity for occupants of developments and neighbouring properties, having regard to such issues as overlooking, access to natural light, outlook and amenity space, in accordance with the Design and Sustainability SPD; c) Have due regard to the density, scale, layout, appearance, architectural detailing, materials and history of the surrounding area, and the relationship to neighbouring buildings, landscape features and heritage assets; d) Are visually attractive as a result of good architecture; e) Provide appropriate parking provision (including bicycle storage), in terms of amount, design, layout and location, in accordance with the adopted parking standards; and f) Provide appropriate internal and external waste and recycling storage areas and accessible collection points for refuse vehicles, in accordance with the Design and Sustainability SPD, in order to promote effective recycling and disposal of household and commercial waste.
Policy EM11 – The Historic Environment All development must conserve or enhance the quality of the Borough’s heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance. Development proposals which would affect designated or undesignated heritage assets will be permitted where they: a) Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the significance of the heritage asset and its setting, how this has informed the proposed development, and how the proposal would impact on the
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asset’s significance. This will be proportionate to the importance of the heritage asset and the potential impact of the proposal; b) Ensure that extensions and/or alterations respect the historic form, setting, fabric and any other aspects that contribute to the significance of the host building; c) Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the significance, character and setting of conservation areas and how this has informed proposals, to achieve high quality new design which is respectful of historic interest and local character; d) Conserve or enhance the quality, distinctiveness and character of historic assets by ensuring the use of appropriate materials design and detailing; and e) Retain the significance and character of historic buildings when considering alternative uses and make sensitive use of redundant historic assets.
Evidence Base and Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs)
Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council November 2010
4.14 The Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study was produced in order to help inform decisions about the future extent and direction of development within the Borough of Basingstoke. Relevant extracts are provided below:
1.3 It should be noted that the overall assessment given to any area does not mean that the assessment applies to the whole area – it may apply to one part of it. Further detailed assessment of the areas will be required as part of the next stage of the development of the Local Development Framework.
3.6 The Landscape Capacity is a combination of the sensitivity of the landscape character (both physical/aesthetic and visual) and the value attached to the landscape
4.5 It should be noted that this assessment provides a guide as to the capacity of each of the character areas. The precise location and extent of development would depend on a closer study and evaluation of each character area.
4.15 The site falls within the Local Character Area BA07 – West Sherfield (Figure 10: BDBC Landscape Capacity Study). The summary of overall landscape capacity for Local Character Area BA07 is described as follows:
Summary of Overall Landscape Capacity
This area is located to the south and west of Sherfield-on-Loddon and is currently entirely separated from the existing urban edge of Basingstoke.
Landform in the area is locally prominent, which along with the land use and vegetation creates a rural character. The influence of Bramley Camp, the A33 and the edge of the village are all contained. This area is also important as it provides the visual and physical setting to the village
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and should be retained to prevent any coalescence should new development in Basingstoke continue in this direction. For these reasons, the landscape capacity is low.
Landscape Sensitivity
Summary of Characteristics
The land falls from a high point along the southern boundary to the north, east and west towards Bow Brook, which forms the northern boundary of the site.
There are no significant areas of woodland within the area, although occasional field boundaries in the north are lined by shelterbelts. Hedged field boundaries are more prevalent in the north.
Land use comprises farmland around Goddard’s Farm which also has some paddocks. These activities along with the vegetation give the area a generally strong rural character. However, this is tempered in some locations particularly as Bramley Camp lies to the immediate west, whilst the settlement of Sherfield-on-Loddon provides the eastern boundary. There are a couple of footpaths but these are contained in the southern part of the area.
The area is in a reasonable state of repair and occasional field boundaries appear to have been removed. Bramley Camp is beyond the site, although this has had an impact on the intactness of the landscape. It is representative of the wider landscape character.
Fields are generally medium in size, which along with the landform and the vegetation cover, has resulted in a semi-enclosed character.
Visual Sensitivity
Summary of Characteristics
The level of intervisibility is greater in the southern part of the area, which is on higher land and allows longer distance views across the countryside. The landform and vegetation limits intervisibility in the north.
Views are of a generally rural nature, although the harsh edge of Bramley Camp and the more exposed edges of Sherfield-on-Loddon do provide an urbanising influence. The A33 is well contained by the landform.
A number of residential properties along the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon face onto the area and the footpaths appear to be well used.
The pattern of vegetation, could allow some potential mitigation, although its effectiveness would be limited in some instances by the landform.
Landscape Value
Summary of Characteristics
Part of the Sherfield-on-Loddon Conservation Area extends in to this character area and the area borders other parts of it.
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The presence of Bramley Camp and the proximity of the village limit any sense of tranquillity.
The appearance of the paddocks, pylons and the edge of the Bramley Camp also limit scenic beauty, however, this is greater in the northern part of the site.
The eastern part of this area provides the physical setting to Sherfield –on-Loddon and provides an important buffer that should be retained around the village.
4.16 As recommended above this LVIA provides a more detailed level of evaluation of the landscape character and visual setting to Sherfield-on-Loddon than that undertaken for the BDBC Landscape Capacity Study.
Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs)
4.17 The Borough Council has prepared a number of Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) to provide additional guidance to the Saved Policies of the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Local Plan,1996- 2011. This includes the following:
Design and Sustainability
Landscape and Biodiversity
Green Infrastructure Strategy Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council
July 2013
4.18 The Vision underpinning this strategy is to provide a planned and managed network of Green Infrastructure across Basingstoke and Deane which:
provides residents with adequate local access to a network of high quality parks, open spaces, green links and corridors; protects the health and attractiveness of our natural environment, enhancing those areas which can make a positive contribution to biodiversity; and allows the natural environment to thrive alongside the built environment. In order to achieve this, the strategy aims to:-
manage, protect and restore existing green infrastructure; and expand and reconnect green infrastructure where there is an identified deficit or where housing growth is planned and additional provision is needed.
4.19 There are no strategic GI corridors identified within the site. However Bow Brook which forms a tributary of the River Loddon runs adjacent to the site’s northern boundary. Opportunities for biodiversity enhancement along the River Loddon catchment are identified within the GI strategy:
Significant elements of the River Test and the River Loddon catchments are included in their associated Biodiversity Priority Areas but there remains significant opportunities for biodiversity enhancement, and where appropriate access improvements, where funding can be identified.
4.20 In addition the GI Strategy identifies local scale linear habitat features:
Linear habitat features include individual tree belts, hedgerows, rows of street trees, streams, local footpaths, bridleways and cycleways. These local scale features provide habitat for a range of
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species and access and recreation opportunities for people. The enhancement of linear habitat features in terms of habitat quality, connectivity and where appropriate accessibility, can be delivered through individual green space management plans, whole farm management plans, street scene planting schemes, and development and regeneration schemes.
4.21 The GI Strategy also identifies wildlife opportunity corridors.
The identification of wildlife corridors in and around the edge of settlements will help to rectify the effects of development on wildlife and help to link urban populations of animals with those in the wider countryside.
The corridors will include existing wildlife opportunity corridors which are already providing an important function in terms of wildlife movement, as well as new corridor areas where environmental enhancement would lead to significant improvements for key species and habitats.
4.22 The following key principle relates to the delivery of GI:
P7 - To ensure that improvements to green infrastructure are considered at an early stage of the development process and when allocating existing and future funding streams.
The main contributions will be through the creation and improvement of open spaces, habitats, landscape features and other GI assets within and around development sites, and by protecting areas of GI importance from development.
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5.0 SCHEME DESCRIPTION AND LANDSCAPE MITIGATION
5.1 The development proposals are described fully in the Design and Access Statement accompanying the planning application. The landscape proposals or mitigation measures are considered as an inherent part of the proposals and these are discussed below.
5.2 The Proposed Development Framework Plan (refer to the Design and Access Statement) illustrates the following:
The proposed development will consist of up to 95 new dwellings with an access road leading into the site from Bow Drive.
The total area of Public Open Space and green infrastructure within the site equates to 2.36 ha, approximately 35% of the total site area.
Landscape proposals
Green Infrastructure
5.3 An appropriate landscape framework is an integral part of creating a sustainable scheme appropriate to both the site landscape and its context. The relevant planning policy on landscape character and green infrastructure and the recommendations of the green infrastructure strategy documents (identified within section 4.0 of this report) has informed the green infrastructure proposals for the site. In particular the proposed GI would retain and enhance local scale linear habitat features including hedgerows and trees situated along Goddards Lane and the site’s western boundary. GI proposed along the site’s northern boundary would enhance the Bow Brook corridor which forms a tributary of the River Loddon. Such enhancements would have the potential create a wildlife opportunity corridor.
5.4 The landscape proposals will incorporate public open space including grassland, with native trees/woodland, hedgerow and shrub planting, with further trees used where appropriate within the proposed street layout.
5.5 Particular care will be required in the treatment of the interface along the existing residential edge to ensure a satisfactory transition. Care will also be required to create or maintain an attractive soft edge to the development along the southern, western and northern site boundaries. Peripheral hedgerows and trees will be retained wherever possible.
5.6 Along the southern site boundary development will be set back from Goddards Lane and from the farm complex at Carpenters Farmhouse. A buffer of approximately 35 metres is proposed adjacent to Goddards Lane which will provide an enhanced green setting to the conservation area and listed buildings. Tree planting within the buffer will supplement the retained boundary hedgerow and trees. This will strengthen the green character of Goddards Lane and provide a continuous soft edge to the development. A footpath link will be created in the southwest corner of the site, utilising the existing field access.
5.7 A corridor of open space would also be created along the western site boundary which would retain and enhance the existing field hedgerow and mature trees. The proposed GI would retain an open setting to the listed Carpenter’s Farmhouse. A proposed equipped children’s play area will create a focal area within the open space situated alongside the western site boundary.
5.8 Along the northern site boundary existing retained trees and shrubs along the Bow Brook corridor will assist in assimilating the proposed built development within the landscape. A proposed
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attenuation pond, species rich grassland meadow and additional tree planting would complement the Bow Brook corridor and enhance biodiversity. A pumping station is also proposed within the open space situated alongside the northern site boundary.
5.9 Properties will be orientated to front onto the open spaces and towards peripheral roads.
Built Development
5.10 The majority of properties proposed will be a maximum height of 2 storeys. However some 2.5 storey properties are proposed internally within the site. A low density (average 23dph) is proposed.
5.11 This assessment assumes that the choice of materials will reflect local building materials so that the built development blends visually with the settlement characteristics.
5.12 The adjacent settlement edge is modern in character, therefore the Design and Access Statement sets out how the best examples of local character within the village which would be utilised in the Development Proposals.
Lighting
5.13 The Proposed Development would include a range of measures which would control the use of artificial light without detriment to the lighting task. The need for lighting would be carefully assessed and all lighting would be designed in accordance with guidance issued by the Institute of Lighting Engineers (ILE) in order to prevent light pollution.
5.14 The minimum amount of lighting necessary to illuminate the area would be used. There are published standards for lighting tasks which the proposed development would adhere to The Outdoor Lighting Guide published by the ILE and Lighting in the Countryside: Towards Good Practice published by the ODPM (1997) provide guidance.
Construction
5.15 Unnecessary removal of trees and vegetation along site boundaries will be avoided. Protective fencing will be installed in accordance with BS5837:2012. Further information is provided within the tree report.
5.16 Site hoarding should be carefully considered to restrict views of the works around the site, in particular in views from nearby properties. Any temporary hoarding, barriers, traffic management and signage will be removed when no longer required.
5.17 Lighting of the site will be restricted to agreed working hours and those necessary for security. Materials and machinery will be stored tidily during the works to minimise effects on views. Roads providing access will be maintained free of dust and mud as far as reasonably practicable.
5.18 Storage of materials and/or waste on site will be within designated areas, which are well screened as far as is appropriate and practicably possible. Any waste disposal off site is to be in accordance with a waste management strategy, so as not to cause potential off site landscape or visual effects.
Landscape Management
5.19 All of the landscape areas and features would be managed and maintained in the long term. This would be achieved through the implementation as appropriate of a Landscape Management Plan (LMP). The LMP ensure the successful establishment and continued thriving of the planting
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proposals. It is envisaged that the content of an LMP would be subject to a planning condition and agreed with the Local Planning Authority prior to occupation.
6.0 ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS
6.1 This section considers the landscape and visual effects that will arise as a result of the Proposed Development. The effects upon the site are assessed against the proposals as shown on the Development Framework Plan. This section should be read in conjunction with the Landscape Effects Schedule (Appendix A) and the Visual Effects Schedule (Appendix B).
Construction Phase
6.2 Some short term and temporary landscape and visual effects will occur from alterations to the landscape during the construction period of the Proposed Development. These effects would be temporary and restricted to localised areas situated within or immediately adjacent to the site.
6.3 Key landscape and visual construction effects may include:
Loss of farm land;
The stripping and storage of topsoil;
The removal of sections of hedgerow required for works associated with access construction;
The construction of new buildings, infrastructure and the planting of public open spaces and structural landscape areas;
The construction of new vehicular access road off Bow Drive;
Demolition of the existing garages on Bow Drive required for the access road off Bow Drive;
Service connections to the site;
Storage of materials and installation of a contractors compound;
Temporary traffic and pedestrian management arrangements;
Traffic movements into and out of the site;
Views of construction machinery; and
Lighting associated with construction and security.
6.4 The location and design of any temporary site compounds, signage and perimeter screen fencing, combined with effective project management would seek to ensure that the potential landscape and visual effects are mitigated and minimised during the construction phase.
6.5 It is anticipated that the construction working methods would seek to adopt best practices wherever practicable and be agreed with the Local Planning Authority and Statutory Bodies prior to commencement.
6.6 Inevitably, the nature of the effects will vary throughout the construction period and would be influenced by the sequencing and phasing of the development. The visual effects in particular, would vary subject to the relative location and intensity of the construction activity within the site.
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6.7 Construction activities and plant movements within the site would be visible from surrounding receptors. The closest and clearest views towards these activities and plant movements would be experienced from residential properties and roads around the site periphery.
Visual Effects
6.8 The visual effects on properties around the site periphery are assessed as Major or Moderate Major adverse during the construction of the works.
6.9 Major adverse effects would be limited to the following properties situated immediately adjacent to the site, where construction activities for the proposed residential development would potentially be visible at close range:
2 storey semi-detached and detached properties on Goddards Close
2 storey bungalows and semi-detached properties on Bow Drive
6.10 A range of views occur depending upon the property type (bungalows or two storey) their location, aspect and degree of screening provided by rear gardens.
6.11 There would be a Major moderate adverse effect upon the 2 storey detached residential property (Carpenter’s Farmhouse) which abuts the site’s western boundary. Views of construction activities for the proposed residential development would be set back behind a landscape buffers proposed along the site’s southern and western boundaries.
6.12 There would be a Major moderate adverse effect upon the 2 storey semi-detached properties and short terraces on Bullsdown Close. Views of construction activities for the proposed residential development would be set back behind a landscape buffer proposed along the site’s northern boundary.
6.13 Views of the construction activities from Little Bowlings Farm and 2 storey detached residential properties situated on the southern side of Goddards Lane adjacent to the site are more restricted. Existing hedgerow and trees are present along Goddards Lane and within properties private gardens would filter construction activities from view. Partial glimpsed views of construction activities would be set back behind a proposed landscape buffer situated adjacent to Goddards Lane. Construction works would potentially result in a Minor/Moderate adverse visual effect.
6.14 Views of construction activities from other properties situated along Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bulls Down Close (which do not abut the site) would be restricted by existing residential development. Consequently the visual effects upon these properties would be Minor/Moderate adverse during the construction of the works.
6.15 Localised Moderate adverse effects would occur for users of Bow Drive during the initial construction of the proposed vehicular access into the site. Existing garages situated off Bow Drive by the site would be demolished to enable the construction of a new junction and access road.
6.16 Views along Goddards Lane are very enclosed by the hedgerow, trees and grass verge present along the narrow sunken lane. Consequently views of construction activities within the site would be much restricted. Localised glimpsed views of construction activities would be set back behind a proposed landscape buffer situated adjacent to Goddards Lane. Construction works would
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potentially result in a Minor/Moderate adverse visual effect upon localised vantage points along Goddards Lane adjacent to the site.
6.17 Minor adverse / negligible visual effects would occur upon parts of the wider road network as a result of construction traffic.
6.18 Views of construction activities within the site available from public rights of way within the surrounding landscape would be much restricted. Existing hedgerows and trees situated within the intervening landscape including along field boundaries and Goddards Lane would largely screen construction activities from view. There would be Minor adverse / negligible effects upon public footpaths situated to the south and west of the site.
Landscape Effects
6.19 Construction activities would change local landscape character and would be temporary. Effects would be localised and largely restricted to the site area. Within the site Moderate/Major adverse effects would result from the proposed conversion of the arable field into a high quality residential development which would be located adjacent to the existing settlement edge. Landscape features will be retained and protected during construction, within the proposed Green Infrastructure framework.
6.20 The site is very contained owing to the interaction of localised variations in topography (hills at Bulls Down Camp and Gully Copse) existing vegetation cover (belts of trees along Goddards Lane, Bow Brook and woodland located at Bulls Down Camp and Bramley Camp Gully Copse) and urban fabric along the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon. As a result the proposed development would be visually separated from the wider landscape. During construction works there would be a Negligible effect on the National scale landscape character area (Thames Heath Basin), a Negligible effect on Hampshire’s County scale landscape character area (2c Lowland Mosiac Small Scale), and a Negligible effect on BDBC’s Borough scale landscape character area (Mixed Farmland and Woodland).
6.21 During construction Low adverse effects would be limited to a small area of BDBC’s Local Character Area BA07 – West Sherfield within which the site lies. Effects would be localised and limited to the north eastern part of Character Area BA07.
6.22 Given that the most significant construction effects are focussed closely around the site coupled with the fact that predicted impacts are considered to be of a temporary nature, construction effects should be mitigated sufficiently though careful management and programming, best practice and agreed working methods and through dialogue with surrounding residents that there would not be any unacceptable landscape or visual effects during the construction period.
6.23 In landscape terms, the effects arising from construction would reflect the overall change to the character of the site as outlined in the subsequent Landscape Effects section and would be temporary.
Operational Phase
6.24 This section details the landscape and visual effects arising from the proposed development of the site. The assessment is based upon the Proposed Development Framework provided within the
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Design and Access Statement. The assessment of landscape effects is summarised within the Landscape Effects Schedule at Appendix A.
Landscape Effects
6.25 The introduction of a residential development, associated infrastructure and open space would result in permanent changes in the landscape.
6.26 Permanent changes include:
Change of land use from agricultural to residential;
The creation of new vehicle and pedestrian/cycle access onto Bow Drive;
The creation of a pedestrian link into the site from Goddards Lane;
Introduction of up to 95 new houses, access roads, lighting and their associated activity; and
Introduction of new green infrastructure including public open space, an equipped children’s play area, combined foot/cycle paths, structural boundary planting and a drainage attenuation area and proposed pumping station.
6.27 The predicted effects are considered with reference to the planning policy and landscape designations, landscape character assessments and landscape features and components.
6.28 The existing landscape characteristics of the site and surroundings are much influenced by the combination of the existing built development adjacent to the site, roads, electricity pylons and other infrastructure, the localised and wider topography and the current uses associated with the site.
6.29 As well as Sherfield-on-Loddon, other settlement within the area includes villages at Bramley and Bramley Green, scattered hamlets and numerous other isolated properties and farmsteads. Larger scale residential development occurs at Chineham to the south west, which lies on the outskirts of Basingstoke. The British Army training camp (Bramley Camp) is located 0.5km away to the west of the site between Chineham and Bramley.
6.30 The site comprises of one field currently under arable use. Consequently it is lacking in any significant vegetation cover or other internal features of value. The proposed Green Infrastructure would retain and enhance local features including hedgerows and hedgerow trees present along the periphery of the site by field boundaries and Goddards Lane. The proposed built development would be set back from Goddards Lane and from the farm complex at Carpenters Farmhouse. A proposed landscape buffer will provide an enhanced green setting to the conservation area and listed buildings. Tree planting within the buffer will supplement the retained boundary hedgerow and trees. A corridor of open space would also be created along the western site boundary which would retain and enhance the existing field hedgerow and mature trees. A proposed equipped children’s play area will create a focal area within the open space situated along the western site boundary. The proposed GI would retain an open setting to the listed Carpenter’s Farmhouse.
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6.31 Along the northern site boundary existing retained trees and shrubs along the Bow Brook corridor will assist in assimilating the proposed built development within the landscape. Green Infrastructure proposed along the site’s northern boundary includes an attenuation pond, species rich grassland meadow and additional tree planting which would complement the Bow Brook corridor and enhance biodiversity.
6.32 The site is situated immediately adjacent to the existing built up area of Sherfield-on-Loddon. Residential properties at Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bullsdown Close abut the site’s eastern boundary. To ensure a satisfactory transition existing vegetation along the site boundary would be retained. Proposed houses would be set further back behind either private gardens, open space or lanes.
6.33 The site is considered to have the potential to accommodate a well-planned residential development without causing significant harm to the wider settlement or local landscape context. The scale and size of the development would be in keeping with the existing residential character at the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon. The internal layout has been designed with properties fronting onto areas of open space.
6.34 An attractive soft edge to the proposed built development will be created along the southern, western and northern site boundaries. Belts of tree planting proposed within landscape buffers will supplement the retained boundary hedgerow and trees. This will form a continuous soft edge to the built development which would provide an enhanced green setting along the western edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon.
6.35 All of the new landscape areas would be underpinned by an appropriate Landscape Management Plan (LMP) which would ensure the successful establishment and long term success of the landscape. In the longer term this would also generate some localised landscape benefits.
6.36 Landscape effects on the site itself are therefore assessed as Moderate/Major adverse at year 1, reducing to Minor Adverse at year 10 as the landscaping establishes.
6.37 At the National scale the Natural England Character Assessment locates the site within the ‘Thames Basin Heaths’ (NCA 129). The Natural England assessments consider only the very broad context of the landscape and covers extensive landscape areas. No reference is made to Sherfield- on-Loddon itself although it is recognised that 20th century developments including conurbations, dispersed villages and transport infrastructure occurs within this NCA.
6.38 Given the context of the site situated immediately adjacent to the existing settlement of Sherfield- on-Loddon, it is considered that landscape effects upon the National Character Area would be Negligible at year 1. The assessment identifies landscape opportunities of relevance to the site including encouraging and developing a high quality green infrastructure within all new build projects. This is proposed within the site where a well planned green infrastructure would provide some local benefits. However given the scale of the NCA the change across the character area as a whole would remain Negligible at year 10.
6.39 At a County scale the Hampshire County Landscape Character Assessment locates the site within the Loddon Valley Forest of Eversley West character area within the Landscape Type Lowland
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Mosaic – small scale. This Landscape Type covers a broad area and extends to the County boundary with West Berkshire. The proposed development occupies a small part of the overall Landscape Type. The proposed Green Infrastructure which includes the creation of areas of grassland / village greens along with belts of woodland planting. This would be in keeping with characteristics for the Landscape Type and deliver landscape benefits that offset the loss of the agricultural field. Consequently the landscape effects upon the County Character Area would be Negligible, both at year 1and at year 10.
6.40 At a Borough scale the BDBCs Landscape Character Assessment undertaken in 2001 locates the site within the Loddon and Lyde Valley character area within Landscape Type FW2 Mixed farmland and woodland. The character area covers a broad tract of landscape extending from Old Basing, Chineham and Basingstoke eastwards and northwards to the Borough boundary. There is relatively low intervisibility within the character area, due to landform and vegetation minimising views. The Landscape Type FW2 Mixed farmland and woodland represents the most extensive landscape types across the northern part of the Borough. Consequently the landscape effects upon the Borough Character Area would be Negligible, both at year 1and at year 10.
6.41 In addition to the above The Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study was undertaken on behalf of BDBC in 2010. The site lies immediately adjacent to the settlement Sherfield-on-Loddon in the Loddon and Lyde Valley character area within the Local Character Area BA07 – West Sherfield. The site is very contained owing to the interaction of localised variations in topography (hills at Bulls Down Camp and Gully Copse) existing vegetation cover (belts of trees along Goddards Lane, Bow Brook and woodland located at Bulls Down Camp and Bramley Camp Gully Copse) and urban fabric along the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon. As a result effects upon landscape surrounding the proposed development would be limited to a small area within the north eastern part of Character Area BA07. The immediate context of the site would be changed as a result of the development. Development of the site would extend the adjacent settlement character of Sherfield-on-Loddon slightly further westwards into the adjacent landscape, but would be well integrated within the local landscape by the framework of trees and hedgerows. Belts of proposed tree planting would utilise locally occurring native species, consistent with the local character.
6.42 Initially during construction works and at Year 1 the proposed development would result in minor adverse effects upon the Local Character Area BA07 – West Sherfield. However at Year 10 upon establishment of planting the effects would reduce to negligible.
Visual Effects
6.43 A visual appraisal of the proposed development has been undertaken to determine the potential effects upon surrounding receptors. Using the methodology outlined at the beginning of this appraisal, receptors with potential views to the proposed development have been assessed in terms of sensitivity, proposed changes to view and resulting overall significance.
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6.44 Two assessments have been conducted for all receptors. The first considers the effects upon completion of the proposed development in year 1 and in the winter period (i.e. the screening effects of any deciduous foliage is not taken into account) and the second predicts the effects 10 years after completion and in the summer period (thus enabling the effectiveness of any planting to be evaluated). The assessment of individual receptors is included within the Visual Effects Schedule at Appendix B.
6.45 Figure 6 provides the locations of the photographs referenced within the visual appraisal. The description of existing views and the accompanying Photo Viewpoints (Figure 7) should also be referred to in conjunction with the following description of effects. The results of the visual assessment are described and summarised below.
Effects upon Visual Receptors
Settlement and Properties Summary
6.46 The site assessment revealed that the vast majority of properties within Sherfield-on-Loddon and the surrounding landscape will be screened from the proposed development by intervening buildings, landform and/or trees and hedgerows.
6.47 The greatest effects on residential receptors at the outset would be on a small number of properties adjacent to the site peripheries. These include the following properties situated adjacent to the site’s eastern boundary.
Bungalow, Semi-detached and detached 2 storey properties on Goddards Close
Bungalows and semi-detached 2 storey properties on Bow Drive
6.48 At year 1 the effects on these properties have been assessed as Major adverse with the potential for close range views including from windows facing the site. Existing retained hedgerow and trees situated within existing properties gardens and along the site boundary would be supplemented with new tree planting within the gardens of proposed dwellings. As tree planting establishes it will soften views of the proposed built development, reducing the assessed effects to Moderate adverse due to the loss of the open setting.
6.49 At year 1 there would be a Moderate adverse effect upon the 2 storey semi-detached properties and short terraces situated on Bullsdown Close. Views of the proposed residential development would be set back behind a landscape buffer proposed along the site’s northern boundary. Some properties would also have views an informal footpath within open space proposed along the landscape buffer. Existing retained hedgerow and trees situated within existing properties gardens and along the site boundary would be supplemented with new tree planting within the landscape buffer and also within gardens of proposed dwellings. As tree planting establishes it will soften views of the proposed built development, reducing the assessed effects to Minor adverse due to the partial loss of the open setting.
6.50 At year 1 there would be a Moderate major adverse effect upon the 2 storey detached residential property (Carpenters Farmhouse) which abuts the site’s western boundary. Views of residential properties would be set back behind corridors of open space proposed along the site’s southern and western boundaries. Proposed houses would be located on higher ground and seen along the near horizon resulting in a partial loss of the open setting. Tree planting is proposed within the open space which upon establishment will soften views of the built development reducing the assessed effects to Moderate Minor adverse.
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6.51 There would be glimpsed views of the proposed development from two other 2 storey detached residential properties situated on the southern side of Goddards Lane adjacent to the site. Existing hedgerow and trees are present along Goddards Lane and within the properties private gardens would filter view of the proposed development. Partial glimpsed views of the upper part of proposed residential buildings would be set back behind a proposed landscape buffer situated adjacent to Goddards Lane. At year 1 the proposed development would potentially result in a Minor adverse visual effect. As tree planting establishes within the landscape buffer situated adjacent to Goddards Lane it will further screen views of the proposed built development, reducing the assessed effects to Negligible.
Public Rights of Way and Recreation Summary
6.52 There would be no significant views of the proposed development from Public Rights of Way situated within the surrounding landscape. Existing hedgerows and trees situated within the intervening landscape including along field boundaries and Goddards Lane would largely screen the proposed residential development from view. There would be Minor adverse to negligible effect upon public footpaths situated to the south and west of the site.
6.53 There would be no other significant adverse visual effects upon parts of the wider Public Rights of Way network as a result of the proposed development.
Public Roads Summary
6.54 At year one Minor adverse effects would occur for users of Bow Drive as a result of the proposed vehicular access into the site. Views of the proposed residential development from Bow Drive would be seen within the close context of adjacent existing residential properties. As tree planting within private gardens of the new properties establishes it would soften views of the built development and the visual effect would reduce to Minor Adverse / Negligible.
6.55 Views along Goddards Lane are very enclosed by the hedgerow, trees and grass verge present along the narrow sunken lane. Localised gaps within the hedgerow vegetation cover by Carpenters Farmhouse and Little Bowlings Farm enable partial filtered views of the site. A pedestrian link into the site from Goddards Lane would utilise the existing field access by Carpenters Farmhouse. Glimpsed views of the proposed development would be seen within the context of existing residential development situated by Goddards Close and Bow Drive. Residential development is proposed to be set back within the site behind a landscape buffer adjacent to Goddards Lane. Consequently there would be only partial glimpsed views of the proposed built development. Minor adverse effects experienced at year 1 would reduce to negligible at as belts of proposed tree planting establish within the landscape buffer along Goddards Lane.
6.56 Glimpsed views of upper parts of proposed residential properties would also occur from Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bulls Down Close. Such views would be seen within the close context of existing residential development along these streets. Consequently the visual effects of the proposed development upon users of these roads would be Minor adverse to negligible.
6.57 There would be no other significant adverse visual effects upon parts of the wider road network as a result of the proposed development.
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7.0 SUMMARY
7.1 A high quality residential development is proposed at the western edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon, North Hamsphire. The site is located to the north of Goddards Lane and would be accessed off Bow Drive. Existing development including residential properties situated at Goddards Close, Bow Drive and Bullsdown Close abut the site’s eastern boundary. Other detached residential and agricultural properties are situated along Goddards Lane which abuts the site’s southern boundary.
7.2 The site comprises one field currently under arable use. Consequently it is lacking in any significant vegetation cover or other internal features of value. The proposed Green Infrastructure would retain and enhance local features including hedgerows and hedgerow trees present along the periphery of the site by field boundaries and Goddards Lane. These existing retained features will form the basis of a cohesive multifunctional GI framework.
7.3 The proposed built development would be set back from Goddards Lane and from Carpenters Farmhouse. A proposed landscape buffer will provide an enhanced green setting to the conservation area and listed buildings.
7.4 An attractive soft edge to the proposed built development will be created along the southern, western and northern site boundaries. Belts of tree planting proposed within landscape buffers will supplement the retained boundary hedgerow and trees. This will form a continuous soft edge to the built development which would provide an enhanced green setting along the western edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon.
7.5 Potential adverse impacts occurring during the construction works would be restricted to localised areas situated within or immediately adjacent to the site. However, the completed development would not result in any significant adverse effects.
Landscape Effects
7.6 The site is considered to have the potential to accommodate a well-planned residential development without causing significant harm to the wider settlement or local landscape context. The scale and size of the development would be in keeping with the existing residential character at the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon.
Visual Effects
Properties
7.7 The vast majority of properties within Sherfield-on-Loddon will be effectively screened from the proposed development by intervening buildings, landform and/or trees and hedgerows. Views of the proposed buildings from Sherfield-on-Loddon’s existing residential edge would largely be restricted to properties situated immediately adjacent to the site.
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7.8 The greatest effects on residential receptors at the outset would be on a small number of properties on Goddards Close and Bow Drive situated adjacent to the site boundary. Existing retained hedgerow and trees situated within existing properties gardens and along the site boundary would be supplemented with new tree planting within the gardens of proposed dwellings. At year 1 these properties would experience Major adverse effects where the existing open agricultural setting is proposed to be replaced by residential development. As tree planting establishes within the green infrastructure it will soften views of the proposed built development, reducing the assessed effects to Moderate adverse.
7.9 At year 1 there would be a Moderate adverse effect upon the 2 storey semi-detached properties and short terraces situated on Bullsdown Close adjacent to the site. Views of the proposed residential development would be set back behind a landscape buffer proposed along the site’s northern boundary. As tree planting establishes it will soften views of the proposed built development, reducing the assessed effects to Minor adverse due to the partial loss of the open setting.
7.10 At year 1 there would be a Moderate major adverse effect upon the 2 storey detached residential property (Carpenters Farmhouse) which abuts the site’s western boundary. Views of residential properties would be set back behind corridors of open space. Tree planting is proposed within the open space which upon establishment will soften views of the built development reducing the assessed effects to Moderate Minor adverse due to the partial loss of the open setting.
Public Rights of Way
7.11 The proposed development would be well screened from Public Rights of Way situated within the surrounding landscape. Existing hedgerows and trees situated within the intervening landscape including along field boundaries and Goddards Lane would largely screen the proposed residential development from view. There would be Minor adverse to negligible effect upon public footpaths situated to the south and west of the site.
Public Roads Summary
7.12 Views along Goddards Lane are very enclosed by the hedgerow, trees and grass verge present along the narrow sunken lane. Localised glimpsed views of the proposed development would be seen within the context of existing residential development situated by Goddards Close and Bow Drive. Residential development is proposed to be set back within the site behind a landscape buffer adjacent to Goddards Lane. Consequently there would be only partial glimpsed views of the proposed built development. Minor adverse effects experienced at year 1 would reduce to negligible at as belts of proposed tree planting establish within the landscape buffer along Goddards Lane.
7.13 At year one Minor adverse effects would occur for users of Bow Drive as a result of the proposed vehicular access into the site. Upon completion of the built development the visual effect would reduce to Minor Adverse / Negligible.
7.14 In conclusion, it is envisaged that a high quality residential development could be created which minimises detrimental environmental effects. Consequently there are no reasons to refuse the application for landscape or visual matters.
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 LVIA.docx 44 Landscape and Visual Appraisal fpcr
FIGURES
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 LVIA.docx 45
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Site Boundary
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr site location plan
N 1:12,500 @ A3 JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 1 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 1 Site Location rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
River Loddon
Bramley Site Boundary Green Sewage Works
Electricity Pylons and Transmission lines
Bulls Down Public rights of way Camp
Sherfield-on-Loddon A33 Bramley Bow Brook Camp
Court Farmhouse
Goddards Lane
Gulley Copse
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr aerial photograph
N NTS @ A3 JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 2 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 2 Aerial Photo Rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Site Boundary
85m - 90m AOD
80m - 85m AOD
75m - 80m AOD
70m - 75m AOD
65m - 70m AOD
60m - 65m AOD
55m - 60m AOD
50m - 55m AOD
45m - 50m AOD
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr TOPOGRAPHY PLAN
N NTS @ A3 JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 3 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 3 Topography Plan Rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Site Location
Character Areas
Thames Basin Heaths
Hampshire Downs
Wealden Greensand
Thames Valley
Thames Basin Lowlands
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr national character areas
N NTS @ A3 JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 4A masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 4A National Character Rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Site Boundary
Character Area Boundary
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr Hampshire county character assessment
N NTS @ A3 JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 4B masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 4B Hampshire County Character Assessment Rev A.indd
Hampshire County 2 Status: FINAL May 2012 Integrated Character Assessment Loddon Valley and Forest of Eversley Hampshire County 2 Status: FINAL May 2012 West Integrated Character Assessment Loddon Valley and Forest of Eversley West
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Site Boundary
Character Areas
Open Arable on Clay
Mixed Farmland and Woodland
Mixed Farmland and Woodland: Small scale
Open Valley Sides
Open Valley Floor Farmland
Parkland
Modern Military
Open Farmland and woodland
Urban areas
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr BOROUGH character areas
N NTS @ A3 JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 4C masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 4C Borough Character Rev A.indd
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Site Boundary
Basingstoke/Chineham – Bramley/Sherfield-on- Loddon Strategic Gap
Sherfield on Loddon Conservation Area
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr LANDSCAPE DESIGNATIONS & PLANNING POLICY
N 1:12,500 @ A3 DW/JJ
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 5 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 5 Landscape Designations & Policy.indd
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Site Boundary
Photo Viewpoint Location (Refer to figure 7)
Site Photograph Location (Refer to figure 8)
18 Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI)
9 10 8 E 7 D 5 6 C 4 A B 3 1 2 11 13 15 17 12 16
14 Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr PHOTOVIEWPOINT LOCATION plan AND ZVI N NTS @ A3 DW/JJ
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 6 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 6 Photo viewpoint locations and ZVI Rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Residential properties situated by Bulls Down Close Design Ltd.
Glimpse of building at the Court Farm House Electricity pylon and sub-station by Sherfield Road Arable field Tree belt by Bow Brook Goddards Lane
Approximate Site Extents Electricity Pylon
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 1: Northerly view from Goddards Lane by Carpenters Farmhouse
This view from Goddards Lane by the site’s south western boundary is relatively enclosed. Existing roadside hedgerow and trees largely screen the adjacent properties. Glimpsed views of buildings at Carpenters Farmhouse are filtered by existing veg- etation cover. Much of the site is screened from view by the existing hedgerow along Goddards Lane. A gap occurs within the hedgerow by a field access which enables a localised view into the site. Views across an arable field are towards residential properties by Bulls Downs Close, backdropped by tree belt situated along Bow Brook. There are also longer distant views of other built development including electricity pylons and a sub-station situated by Sherfield Road.
Woodland on Bulls Down Camp Approximate Site Extents
Trees and hedgerow Goddards Lane Grass verge and embankment Electricity Pylon Residential properties on Goddards Close Goddards Lane
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 2: Northerly view from Goddards Lane by Little Bowlings Farm Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Views from Goddards Lane adjacent to the site’s southern boundary are largely enclosed due to a combination of the raised grass verge, hedgerow and trees. This photograph was taken by Little Bowlings Farm where a gap in the hedgerow vegetation enables a partial view of the site. Glimpsed views across the adjacent arable field are towards residential properties situated on Goddards Land north of Goddards Lane Close. Other built development within view includes electricity pylon. There are also longer distance views of the woodland at Bulls Down Camp which is situated on a low hill and visible against Sherfield-on-Loddon the skyline. fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 1 & 2
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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 7 Photo views Rev A.indd
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Glimpse of Residential property off Goddards Lane Trees situated along Goddards Lane Residential property Goddards Close Approximate Site Location
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 3: Easterly view from Goddards Close
The view from Goddards Close, near to the junction with Goddards Lane is largely enclosed. The foreground view is dominated by residential properties along Goddards Close which are set back behind roadside footpath, clipped hedgerows and private front gardens. A bungalow is located on the corner of Goddards Close whilst the other properties are 2 storeys. Glimpsed views of other residential properties by Goddards Lane are filtered by an existing tree belt. The site is screened from view by exist- ing residential properties.
Approximate Site Location
Residential property Tree belt along Goddards Lane Arable field Carpenters Farmhouse Hedgerow trees Treebelt alongside Bow Brook Residential property
Woodland on Bulls Down Camp
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 4: Easterly view from Goddards Close Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association This view is available from the end of Goddards Close between existing residential properties. The site is visible at close range over a low clipped hedgerow. Semi-open views are across a medium scale arable field towards vegetation along the site’s boundaries. Hedgerow and established tree belt is visible along Goddards Lane. The upper canopies of hedgerow trees situated Land north of Goddards Lane along the site’s western boundary are visible. Views towards the site’s northern boundary include hedgerow and trees by Bow Brook which are backdropped by woodland at Bulls Down Camp. Sherfield-on-Loddon Glimpsed views of properties along Goddards Lane including Little Bowlings Farm and Carpenters Farmhouse are partially screened by the existing vegetation cover. fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 3 & 4
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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 7 Photo views Rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Approximate Site Location
Goddards Close Residential property Garages Bungalows Bow Drive
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 5: Easterly view from Bow Drive
The view from Bow Drive near to the junction with Goddards Close is relatively enclosed. The foreground view is dominated by residential properties along Bow Drive which are set back behind roadside footpath, clipped hedgerows and private front gardens. Properties include bungalows, 2 storey houses and single storey garages. The majority of the site is screened from view by existing residential properties. A glimpsed view into the site occurs between the garages where part of an arable field is backdropped by trees along Bow Brook and woodland at Bramley Camp.
Hedgerow tree Woodland at Bramley Camp Woodland at Bulls Down Camp Carpenters Farmhouse Glimpse of property by Goddards Lane Arable field Electicity pylon Trees and scrub alongside Bow Brook Garage
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 6: Easterly view by garages off Bow Drive Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association This view is available from the end of Bow Drive between existing garages. The site is visible at close range over a concrete post and wire fencing. Semi-open views are across a medium scale arable field towards vegetation along the site’s boundaries. Hedgerow and established tree belt is visible along Goddards Lane. Hedgerow trees situated along the site’s western boundary are Land north of Goddards Lane also visible. Views towards the site’s northern boundary include hedgerow and trees/scrub by Bow Brook which are backdropped by woodland at Bramley Camp and Bulls Down Camp. Glimpsed Sherfield-on-Loddon views of properties along Goddards Lane including Little Bowlings Farm and Carpenters Farmhouse are partially screened by the existing vegetation cover. Other built development within view fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 5 & 6 includes electricity pylons.
NTS @ A3 DW/ JJ July 2014
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 7 Photo views Rev A.indd
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Bow Drive Bungalows Garages Two storey residential properties
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 7: Easterly view from Bow Drive
This view from Bow Drive is relatively enclosed. The foreground view is dominated by residential properties along Bow Drive which are set back behind roadside footpath, grass verges, clipped hedgerows or fencing and private front gardens. A few trees occur within the grass verge or in the private gardens. Properties include bungalows, 2 storey houses and single storey garages. The site is screened from view by existing built development.
Approximate Site Location
Garages Woodland at Bulls Down Camp Trees alongside Bow Brook
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 8: Easterly view by garages off Bow Drive Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association This view from the garages off Bow Drive is relatively enclosed. The foreground view is dominated by the car parking, single storey garages and 2 storey residential properties. Timber fencing de- marcates the edge of the garage area. A few small trees are present within the site along the edge of the garages. Other vegetation within view includes woodland at Bulls Down Camp and trees Land north of Goddards Lane along the Bow Brook. Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 7 & 8
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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 7 Photo views Rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Approximate Site Location Electricity Pylon
Trees alongside Bow Brook Residential properties Trees alongside Bow Brook Arable field within the site
Carpenters Farmhouse
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 9: Easterly view from Bulls Down Close
This view from Bow Drive is relatively enclosed. The foreground view is dominated by residential properties fronting onto Bow Drive. Two storey properties are set back behind roadside, private drives and front gardens. Low clipped hedgerows or fencing demarcate some of the properties boundaries. Some of the properties are backdropped by trees situated alongside Bow Brook. The site is largely screened from view by existing built development. A glimpsed view occurs of the arable field and Carpenters Farmhouse.
Trees along Goddards Lane Approximate Site Location
Private garden Glimpse of property by Goddards Lane
Residential properties by Glimpse of Carpenters Farm Electricity Pylon Bow Drive Hedgerow trees
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 10: Easterly view from footpath by Bulls Down Close Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association This view is taken from the footpath which runs alongside the residential properties at Bow Drive. The site is visible at close range over a concrete post and wire fencing. Semi-open views are across an arable field towards vegetation along the site’s boundaries. Landform slopes towards the site’s northern boundary with trees/scrub along the Bow corridor. The upper canopies of trees Land north of Goddards Lane are visible along Goddards Lane and along the site’s western boundary are also visible. There are glimpsed views of residential properties by Bow Drive, and along Goddards Lane including the Sherfield-on-Loddon Carpenters Farmhouse are partially screened by the existing vegetation cover and intervening landform. Other built development within view includes electricity pylons. fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 9 & 10
NTS @ A3 DW/ JJ July 2014
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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Agricultural Building at Little Bowlings Farm Approximate Site Location
Goddards Lane
Trees alongside Bow Brook Residential properties of Bow Drive Trees along Goddards Lane
Electricity Pylon Trees alongside Bow Brook
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 11: Northerly view from public footpath off Goddards Lane
This view from the public footpath is relatively enclosed by existing vegetation cover. Trees and hedgerow along Goddards Lane screen the majority of the site from view. A glimpsed view into the site, filtered by existing vegetation, includes part of an ar- able field with residential properties at Bow Drive beyond. Other developments within view include buildings at Little Bowlings Farm and an electricity pylon.
Approximate Site Location
Residential properties by Goddards Lane Trees along Goddards Lane Electricity Pylons
Pasture fields Field hedgerows Residential properties at the south west Agricultural building at edge of Sherfield - on - Loddon Little Bowlings Farm
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 12: Northerly view from public footpath to the south of Little Bowlings Farm Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Views from the public footpath are semi-open across pasture fields. The site is screened from view by vegetation within the intervening landscape including field hedgerows and established tree belt along Goddards Lane. Residential properties are visible at the south western edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon. There are also glimpsed views of roofs of properties on Goddards Lane, largely Land north of Goddards Lane screen by existing trees. Other built development within view includes electricity pylons. Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 11 & 12
NTS @ A3 DW/ JJ July 2014
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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Public footpath Residential properties
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 13: Westorly view from the southwest end of Sherfield Green
The view over this open green space is semi-enclosed by adjacent residential properties overlooking Sherfield Green. Two storey detached or semi-detached properties are set back from a lane behind private driveways and front gardens. A few trees within the open space and private gardens soften views of the buildings. The site is not visible from this location due to the combined screening effects of existing properties and vegetation cover within the intervening landscape.
Residential properties at the south west Approximate Site Location edge of Sherfield - on - Loddon
Tree belt Field hedgerows Woodland copse Electricity Pylons
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 14: Northerly view from public footpath to the east of Gully Copse Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association This views is taken from the public footpath on a localised high point allowing open views across the surrounding pasture fields. The site is screened from view by vegetation within the interven- ing landscape including woodland copse, field hedgerows and established tree belt. There are glimpsed views of residential properties situated at the south western edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon. Land north of Goddards Lane Other built development within view includes electricity pylons. The site is not visible from this location due to the combined screening effects of localised topography and vegetation cover within Sherfield-on-Loddon the intervening landscape. fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 13 & 14
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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued Goddards Lane on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Approximate Site Location Design Ltd.
Grass verge embankment and hedgerows
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 15: Easterly view along Goddards Lane
This view from Goddards Lane to the south of the site is enclosed. The narrow lane is sunken with roadside hedgerows on raised grass verges. Consequently the site is not visible.
Glimpse of residential property at Goddards Lane Woodland at Bramley Camp Trees along Goddards Lane
Electricity pylon Agricultural Building at Little Bowlings Farm Twin Oaks Stables Horse paddock Glimpse of Court Farmhouse
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 16: Northerly view from public footpath to the east of Goddards Farm Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association This views is taken from the public footpath on a localised high point allowing open views across the surrounding pasture fields and horse paddocks. The site is screened from view by vegetation within the intervening landscape including field hedgerows and established tree belt along Goddards Lane. oodlandW situated at Bramley Camp is seen along the horizon. There are glimpsed Land north of Goddards Lane views of residential properties situated along Goddards Lane including at Court Farmhouse, Little Bowlings Farm and Goddards Farm. Other built development within view includes electricity py- Sherfield-on-Loddon lons. The site is not visible from this location due to the combined screening effects of localised topography and vegetation cover within the intervening landscape. fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 15 & 16
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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Approximate Site Location
Hedgerow trees situated along Woodland at Bulls Down Camp the site’s western boundary
Electricity pylon Field tree Electricity pylon Trees by Carpenters Farmhouse Hedgerow along Goddards Lane
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 17: Easterly view by Goddards Lane at field access near Goddards Farm
Views along Goddards Lane are largely enclosed (Refer to Viewpoint 15 above). This view is taken beside the lane from a field access. Views over arable field are semi-enclosed by surrounding vegetation cover including woodland at Bulls Down Camp, as well as hedgerow and trees situated along Goddards Lane and the site’s western boundary. The site itself is effectively screened from view by existing vegetation cover. Built development within view includes electricity pylons.
Woodland at Bulls Down Camp
Hedgerow trees Hedgerow Trees alongside Bow Brook Electricity pylon Sub - station Electricity pylon Sherfield Road
PHOTO VIEWPOINT 18: Southerly view from Sherfield Road Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Views are channelled along Sherfield Road due to the presence of roadside hedgerows and trees. This viewpoint was taken where tree cover along Sherfield Road is locally reduced. However the roadside hedgerow and treebelt along the Bow Brook, effectively screens the site from view. Woodland situated at Bulls Down Camp also features within the view. Other Electricity pylons and Land north of Goddards Lane sub-station are visible at close range and prominent within the view. Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 17 & 18
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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Residential property by Goddards Lane Hedgerows by Goddards Lane Glimpse of building by Carpenters Farmhouse Hedgerow trees Woodland at Bulls Down Camp
Woodland at Bramley Camp Trees alongside Bow Brook
PHOTO VIEWPOINT A :Westerly view towards Carpenters Farmhouse
Trees alongside Bow Brook Residential property by Bulls Down Close
Woodland at Bramley Camp Electricity pylons Residential property by Bow Drive Residential property by Goddards Close Tree belt along Goddards Lane
PHOTO VIEWPOINT A: Easterly view towards Sherfield on Loddon Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr SITE PHOTO VIEWPOINT A
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FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 8 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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Woodland at Bulls Down Camp
Agricultural building at Little Bowlings Farm Tree belt and hedgerow along Goddards Lane Trees by Carpenters Farmhouse Hedgerow trees along the sites western boundary Trees alongside Bow Brook
PHOTO VIEWPOINT B: Westerly view by Goddards Lane
Tree belt along Goddards Lane Residential properties by Goddards Close
PHOTO VIEWPOINT B: Easterly view by Goddards Lane Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr SITE PHOTO VIEWPOINT B
NTS @ A3 DW/ JJ July 2014
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 8 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Woodland at Bulls Down Camp Trees and scrub alongside Bow Brook Trees along Goddards Lane
Electricity pylons
PHOTO VIEWPOINT C: Northerly view by the site’s western boundary
Trees by Goddards Lane Carpenter’s Farmhouse Field hedgerow
PHOTO VIEWPOINT C: Southerly view by the site’s western boundary Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr SITE PHOTO VIEWPOINT C
NTS @ A3 DW/ JJ July 2014
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 8 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
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This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Hedgerow along the sites western boundary
Trees and scrub alongside Bow Brook Residential properties situaded by Bulls Down Close Glimps of residential properties Trees along Goddards Lane
PHOTO VIEWPOINT D: Southerly view from the North western corner of the site
Glimps of residential property by Hedgerow trees along the site’s Goddards Lane western boundary Trees and scrub alongside Bow Brook Residential properties situaded by Bulls Down Close Glimps of residential properties Carpenters Farmhouse
PHOTO VIEWPOINT E: Southerly view from the sites northern boundary Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr SITE PHOTO VIEWPOINTS D & E
NTS @ A3 DW/ JJ July 2014
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 8 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 8 Photo Views Rev A.indd
Plan 26 – Biodiversity Priority Area (BPA) – River Loddon
Plan 26 – Biodiversity Priority Area (BPA) – River Loddon
Plan 26 – Biodiversity Priority Area (BPA) – River Loddon
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Site Boundary
Borough of Basingstoke and Deane boundary
Loddon Catchment BOA
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon fpcr BDBC Green Infrastructure Strategy
N NTS @ A3 JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 9 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 9 BDBC Green Infrastructure Strategy Rev A.indd
This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.
Site Boundary
Gladman Developments Ltd and Sentinel Housing Association Land north of Goddards Lane Sherfield-on-Loddon basingstoke, tadley & bramley fpcr landscape capacity study BDBC february 2010 N JRP/MGH
FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 10 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture
J:\6300\6346\LANDS\LVIA\6346 Fig 10 BDBC Landscape Capacity Study Rev A.indd
fpcr APPENDIX A: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS SCHEDULE PROJECT: Gladman Developments Ltd, Sherfield-on-Loddon. JOB No: 6346
Refer to Landscape Character Plan (Figure 4) for location of character areas.
LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)
Landscape Type and Sensitivity of Landscape Magnitude of Landscape Notes Overall Overall Overall Reference Effects Effect at Effect at Effect at Construction Year 1 Year 10 Phase
Susceptibility Value Scale or Size Are the Major Major Major to Change of the Degree Effects of Change Reversible? Moderate Moderate Moderate Minor Minor Minor High High High Yes Negligible Negligible Negligible Medium Medium Medium No None None None Low Low Low Negligible Adverse Adverse Adverse Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial
National Landscape Character: None given None given Negligible No The Natural England assessments consider only the very broad context of the landscape and cover extensive Negligible Negligible Negligible NCA 129: Thames Basin landscape areas. No reference is made to Sherfield-on-Loddon itself although it is recognised that 20th century Heaths developments including conurbations, dispersed villages and transport infrastructure occurs within this NCA. The assessment identifies Landscape Opportunities and Statements of Environmental Opportunities (SEOs) of relevance to the proposed development of the site. Natural Englands Landscape Opportunities SEOs have informed the proposed green infrastructure framework within the site and would provide some local benefits. However given the scale of the NCA the change across the character area as a whole would be negligible.
County Landscape Character: Hampshire County None given None given Negligible No The site lies within the Loddon Valley Forest of Eversley West character area within the Landscape Type Lowland Negligible Negligible Negligible Integrated Character Mosaic – small scale. This Landscape Type covers a broad area and extends to the County boundary with West Assessment. May 2012 Berkshire. The proposed development occupies a small part of the overall Landscape Type. The proposed Green Infrastructure which includes the creation of areas of grassland / village greens along with belts of woodland planting. This would be in keeping with characteristics for the Landscape Type and deliver landscape benefits that offset the loss of the agricultural field.
Borough Landscape Character: None given None given Negligible No The site lies immediately adjacent to the settlement Sherfield-on-Loddon in the Loddon and Lyde Valley character Negligible Negligible Negligible Basingstoke and Deane area within Landscape Type FW2 Mixed farmland and woodland. The character area covers a broad tract of Borough Council Landscape landscape extending from Old Basing, Chineham and Basingstoke eastwards and northwards to the Borough Assessment. June 2001 boundary. There is relatively low intervisibility within the character area, due to landform and vegetation minimising views. The Landscape Type FW2 Mixed farmland and woodland represents the most extensive landscape types across the northern part of the Borough.
1
fpcr APPENDIX A: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS SCHEDULE PROJECT: Gladman Developments Ltd, Sherfield-on-Loddon. JOB No: 6346
Refer to Landscape Character Plan (Figure 4) for location of character areas.
Landscape Character: Local
Site and Immediate Context: Medium Medium/High Low No The site lies immediately adjacent to the settlement Sherfield-on-Loddon in the Loddon and Lyde Valley Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Negligible Immediate Site context Medium/High character area within the Local Character Area BA07 – West Sherfield as described within the
Basingstoke, Tadley and Bramley Landscape Capacity Study undertaken for BDBC in 2010. Effects Basingstoke, Tadley and would be localised and limited to the north eastern part of Character Area BA07. Bramley Landscape Capacity
Study The site is very contained owing to the interaction of localised variations in topography (hills at Bulls Local Character Area BA07 – Down Camp and Gully Copse) existing vegetation cover (belts of trees along Goddards Lane, Bow West Sherfield Brook and woodland located at Bulls Down Camp and Bramley Camp Gully Copse) and urban fabric
along the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon. As a result effects upon landscape surrounding the proposed development would be limited to a small area.
For Local Character Area BA07 – West The immediate context of the site would be changed as a result of the development. Development of Sherfield the Capacity Study considers the site would extend the adjacent settlement character of Sherfield-on-Loddon slightly further the following: westwards into the adjacent landscape, but would be well integrated within the local landscape by the Overall landscape Sensitivity - framework of trees and hedgerows. Belts of proposed tree planting would utilise locally occurring native Medium/High species, consistent with the local character.
Overall Visual Sensitivity – Medium Initially during construction works and at Year 1 the proposed development would result in minor adverse effects. However at Year 10 upon establishment of planting the effects would reduce to Overalll Landscape Value - negligible. Medium/High
Low-medium Medium High No The site is situated immediately adjacent to the existing residential area of Sherfield-on-Loddon. Moderate/Major Moderate Minor Adverse Site itself Adverse Adverse The site comprises one field currently under arable use. Consequently the vast majority of the site is lacking in any significant vegetation cover or other internal features of value. The proposed Green Infrastructure would retain and enhance local features including hedgerows and trees situated along the perimeter of the site. These existing retained features will form the basis of a cohesive multifunctional GI framework. A proposed attenuation pond, species rich grassland meadow and additional belts of tree planting would complement the existing retained hedgerows and trees.
Adverse effects would result from the proposed conversion of the arable field into a high quality residential development which would be located adjacent to the existing settlement edge. Overall whilst the change to the site would be high, there are positive landscape elements, as well as adverse effects.
2
fpcr APPENDIX B: VISUAL EFFECTS SCHEDULE PROJECT: Gladman Developments Ltd, Sherfield-on-Loddon JOB No: 6346
Refer to Landscape & Visual Appraisal Plan (Figure 6) for location of representative viewpoints and visual receptors.
VISUAL EFFECTS TABLE (VET)
Receptor Type (and Sensitivity of Visual Magnitude of Visual Effects Description / Notes Overall Overall Overall Effect photo reference) Receptor Effect at Effect at at Year 10 Construction Year 0 Phase
Susceptibility Value Distance Nature of View Is the View Size/Scale of Major Major Major to Change from Permanent or Visual Effect Application Transient? Moderate Moderate Moderate Boundary Minor Minor Minor (approx.m High High /km) Full High Negligible Negligible Negligible Medium Medium Partial Medium None None None Low Low Glimpse Low None Negligible Adverse Adverse Adverse Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial
Settlement and Properties (nearest publicly accessible viewpoint given for information, viewpoints are not necessarily representative of the view from the property)
Residents of Goddards High Medium At boundary Full Permanent Construction: Westerly views of the proposed development would be seen within the context Major adverse Major Moderate Moderate Close situated adjacent to High of existing detached residential properties and agricultural buildings by adverse adverse the site Goddards Lane. Year 1: (VP 4) High During construction there would be close range views of activities adjacent to the site’s eastern boundary. Longer distance views towards the wider part of Residents of Bow Drive Year 10: the site would potentially be available from upstairs windows of 2 storey situated adjacent to the Medium properties. Existing trees and hedgerow vegetation present along properties site gardens and along field boundaries would filter views.
(VP 6) Upon completion there would be close range views of proposed residential development resulting in a loss of open setting. Some properties on Bow Drive would also experience close range views of the proposed access. The proposed houses would typically be set back behind back gardens. As tree planting establishes within back gardens and elsewhere within the proposed Green Infrastructure it would soften views of the built development.
Residents of Bullsdown High Medium At boundary Partial Permanent Construction: Westerly views of the proposed development would be seen within the context Major adverse Moderate Minor adverse Close situated adjacent to High of other existing residential properties and agricultural buildings by Goddards adverse the site Lane. Year 1: (VPs 8,9&10) Medium During construction there would be views of activities within the southern part of the site. Longer distance views towards the wider part of the site would Year 10: potentially be available from upstairs windows of properties. Existing trees and Medium hedgerow vegetation present along properties gardens and along field boundaries would filter views.
Views of the proposed residential development would be set back behind a landscape buffer proposed along the site’s northern boundary, resulting in a partial loss of the open setting. Some properties would also have views of an informal footpath within open space proposed along the landscape buffer. Existing retained vegetation would be supplemented with new tree planting within the landscape buffer and also within gardens of proposed dwellings. As tree planting within the proposed Green Infrastructure establishes it will soften views of the proposed built development.
fpcr APPENDIX B: VISUAL EFFECTS SCHEDULE PROJECT: Gladman Developments Ltd, Sherfield-on-Loddon JOB No: 6346
Refer to Landscape & Visual Appraisal Plan (Figure 6) for location of representative viewpoints and visual receptors.
Residents of Carpenter’s High Medium At boundary Partial Permanent Construction: Northern and westerly views would include residential properties set back Major Moderate Major Moderate Moderate Minor Farmhouse High High behind corridors of open space proposed along the site boundary. adverse adverse adverse
(VPs 1&C) Year 1: During construction there would be views of activities within the southern part of Medium the site. Longer distance views towards the wider part of the site would potentially be available from upstairs windows of the property. Longer distance Year 10: views of the proposed development would be seen within the context of existing Medium properties at the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon including at Bulls Down Close.
Proposed houses would be located on higher ground and seen along the near horizon resulting in a partial loss of the open setting. Tree planting is proposed within the open space which upon establishment would soften views of the built development.
Little Bowlings Farm and 2 High Medium 10 metres Partial Permanent Construction: Views of the construction activities from Little Bowlings Farm and 2 detached Minor Moderate Minor Moderate Negligible detached residential Glimpsed Low residential properties situated on the southern side of Goddards Lane adjacent adverse adverse properties situated on the to the site would be much restricted. Existing hedgerow and trees are present southern side of Goddards Year 1: along Goddards Lane and within properties private gardens would filter Lane Low construction activities from view. Partial glimpsed views of construction activities (VPs 1&2) would be set back behind a proposed landscape buffer situated adjacent to Year 10: Goddards Lane. Negligible Upon completion there would be partial glimpsed views of the upper part of proposed residential buildings would be set back behind the proposed landscape buffer. Such views of the proposed development would be seen within the context of existing properties at the edge of Sherfield-on-Loddon including at Bulls Down Close and Goddards Close. As tree planting establishes within the landscape buffer situated adjacent to Goddards Lane it will further screen views of the proposed built development, reducing the assessed effects to Negligible.
Residents of Goddards High Medium 20-50 Partial Permanent Construction: Views of construction activities from properties situated along Goddards Close, Minor Moderate Minor adverse Negligible Close, Bow Drive and metres Glimpsed Low Bow Drive and Bulls Down Close (which do not abut the site) would be restricted adverse Bulls Down Close (which by existing residential properties including bungalows and 2 storey houses. do not abut the site) Year 1: Low Glimpsed views of upper parts of the proposed residential houses would be seen (VPs3,5&7) within the close context of the existing residential development. The visual Year 10: effects of the proposed development upon these properties would reduce to Negligible minor adverse or negligible upon completion.
Recreation and Rights of Way
Public Rights of Way High Medium 80-300m Glimpsed Transient Construction: Views of construction activities within the site available from public rights of way Minor adverse / Minor adverse / Negligible situated to the south and None Low within the surrounding landscape would be much restricted. Existing hedgerows Negligible Negligible west of the site. and trees situated within the intervening landscape including along field Year 1: boundaries and Goddards Lane would largely screen construction activities from (VPs 11,12,14,15&16) Low view. Partial glimpsed views of upper parts of the proposed development would result in minor adverse to negligible effects. Year 10: Negligible
fpcr APPENDIX B: VISUAL EFFECTS SCHEDULE PROJECT: Gladman Developments Ltd, Sherfield-on-Loddon JOB No: 6346
Refer to Landscape & Visual Appraisal Plan (Figure 6) for location of representative viewpoints and visual receptors.
Public roads
Views along Goddards Lane are very enclosed by the hedgerow, trees and grass Goddards Lane Medium Medium At boundary Partial Transient Construction: verge present along the narrow sunken lane. Consequently views of Minor/Moderate Minor adverse Negligible (VPs1&2) High Glimpsed Low construction activities within the site would be much restricted. Localised adverse glimpsed views of construction activities would be set back behind a proposed Year 1: landscape buffer situated adjacent to Goddards Lane. Construction works would Low effect localised vantage points along Goddards Lane adjacent to the site. Such glimpsed views of the proposed development would be seen within the context Year 10: of existing residential development situated by Goddards Close and Bow Drive. Negligible Residential development is proposed to be set back within the site behind a landscape buffer adjacent to Goddards Lane. Consequently there would be only partial glimpsed views of upper parts of the proposed residential development. Minor adverse effects experienced at year 1 would reduce to negligible at as belts of proposed tree planting establish within the landscape buffer along Goddards Lane.
Goddards Close Medium Medium 35-50m Partial Transient Construction: Glimpsed views of upper parts of proposed residential properties would also Minor adverse Minor adverse Negligible (VP3) Glimpsed Low occur from Goddards Close and Bulls Down Close. Such views would be seen Negligible within the close context of existing residential development along these streets. Bulls Down Close Year 1: Consequently the visual effects of the proposed development upon users of (VP9) Low these roads would be Minor adverse to negligible.
Year 10: Negligible