Land at Waun-Tysswg Farm, Abertysswg, Rhymney, South Wales
Landscape and Visual Appraisal
Date: July 2018 Our Ref: JPW0888 RPS 260 Park Avenue Aztec West Almondsbury Bristol BS32 4SY
Tel: (0)1454 853 000 Fax: (0)1454 205 820 Email: [email protected]
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Quality Management
Prepared by: Matt Golding/Cheryl Firkins Matt Golding/Cheryl Firkins
Authorised by: Helen Donnelly Helen Donnelly
Date: 05.04.2018
Revision: V5
Project Number: JPW0888
Document Reference: 180702 R JPW0888 CF LVA v5
O:\04 JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW08 xx\JPW0888 - WAUNTYSSWG FARM, Document File Path: ABERTYSSWG (DW)\5. Reports\1. Draft Report\7. Draft DNS Application\180702 R JPW0888 CF LVA v5.docx
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The material presented in this report is confidential. This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Elgin Energy EsCo Ltd and shall not be distributed or made available to any other company or person without the knowledge and written consent of RPS.
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Amendment Record
Revision No. Date Reason for Change Authors Initials
First draft DECEMBER 2016 MCG
Further baseline Second draft MARCH 2018 CLF information available.
Third draft MARCH 2018 PM comments CLF
Fourth Draft APRIL 2018 Executive summary added DW
Fifth Final JULY 2018 Topo edits to final version GG
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Contents
Quality Management ...... i Amendment Record ...... ii Contents ...... ii Executive Summary ...... 1 1 Introduction ...... 4 2 Assessment methodologies ...... 5 3 Visual Assessment Methodology ...... 7 4 Baseline Conditions ...... 9 5 Description of Proposals ...... 14 6 Planning Policy Context ...... 16 7 Effect on landscape elements and features ...... 25 8 Effect on Landscape Character ...... 28 9 Assessment of Landscape Character ...... 36 10 Effect on Visual Amenity ...... 40 11 Cumulative Effects ...... 51 12 Summary and Conclusion ...... 59 Appendix 1 Detailed Assessment Methodology ...... 62 Appendix 2: Document Figures ...... 68
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Executive Summary
This Landscape and Visual Appraisal of Landscape Effects relates to the construction of a Solar Photovoltaic Park and associated infrastructure on approximately 58ha of farmland adjacent to Waun- Tysswg Farm, Abertysswg, Rhymney, South Wales.
It is acknowledged that any development will give rise to change in the landscape character of the Application Site and to the views of people overlooking, visiting or walking through the area. The extent of change will influence the judgement on acceptability and will need to be weighed against the benefits delivered by the Proposed Development.
The Application Site does not form part of any statutory designation. However, it is located within the Mynydd Bedwellty, Rhymney Hill & Sirhowy Sides Special Landscape Area (SLA); a non-statutory landscape designation covering some 715 ha of Blaenau Gwent County Borough (‘BGCB’). It should be noted that the majority of rural (outside of settlement boundaries) BGCB is designated SLA. It is considered, therefore, that the site lies in a landscape, as a land resource, of relative abundance and availability.
The intrinsic qualities of the SLA confirm that the Application Site is located in a landscape that has a high sensitivity to change.
From published assessments and RPS’ assessment, the key features of the Application site and its environs can be summarised as:
. The presence of both deep and shallow valleys broadly on a northwest-southeast alignment;
. The landscape is predominantly agricultural with pockets of linear settlement confined to the northwest-southeast aligned valleys. Isolated and sometimes nucleated farm complexes and private residences are scattered throughout the study area;
. Enclosure levels vary and are heavily influenced by the surrounding topography and vegetation levels;
. With the exception of the settlement pattern, human influence is confined to the surrounding highway network (particularly to the north), coniferous forestry plantation, clusters of existing on- shore renewable energy infrastructure (wind turbines) and the presence of numerous pockets of industry along the A465 corridor and to the edge of Rhymney.
The land use of the Application Site would change from one of agriculture to one of renewable energy development comprising photovoltaic panels, inverters, a substation, 15m lattice tower and permeable gravel tracks.
The layout has been designed to avoid higher value grassland habitats, with the arrays primarily located on semi-improved grassland and species-poor rush pasture. Much of the existing farmland would be retained beneath the arrays and areas of pasture could continue to be grazed.
The combination of the retention of most of the existing trees and grassland vegetation, together with the creation of new areas of acid grassland, would result in a longer-term benefit for both the Application Site and the surrounding landscape.
The Proposed Development would fit within and respect the existing field boundaries. The arrays would follow the contours of Application Site respecting the topography of the site which would remain largely unchanged except at a local level where remodelling may be required for site access roads, internal
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access tracks, and localised regrading to create level platforms. Consequently, the landscape pattern and complexity would not change as a result of the Proposed Development.
Analysis of the LANDMAP Aspect Areas reveal that any potential adverse effects on landscape character within these areas is likely to be very localised. Analysis of LANDMAP confirms that the Cwm Tysswg Visual and Sensory Aspect Area, containing the Application site, is of a lower order in terms of the hierarchy of landscape evaluation.
The primary landscape qualities of the Aspect Areas are maintained and respected.
Of the twelve representative Viewpoints, seven local views would undergo Substantial or Major effects on visual amenity as a result of the Proposed Development at Year 1, with one undergoing Moderate effects and with the remaining Viewpoints undergoing either a Minor or Negligible as a result of the Proposed Development.
The value of local views is considered to be high as the Application site is within the locally designated SLA. With the exception of occasional overhead power lines and clusters of turbine development, often visible at distance in good visibility, there are few detractors. Due to the scale of the Proposed Development, much of the lower-lying agricultural land would be converted to photovoltaic infrastructure, changing the character of the host landscape for the 30-year life of the project.
It would not be possible to screen it entirely from receptors close to the Application Site. The lower-lying ground (containing the Application Site) is largely devoid of defining field boundary vegetation. It is therefore considered that landscape mitigation measures including extensive tree and hedge planting to screen the proposals would be uncharacteristic of the upland fieldscape and the introduction of these patterns of vegetation would be inappropriate to address any residual effects arising from the Proposed Development
However, the proposed solar arrays will be low-lying in close range views, hugging the valley floor thus preserving the open nature of the sensitive, historic landscape. The distinctive open skyline with panoramic views to other ridges is maintained as are open views from the minor unnamed road along the Mynydd Bedwellty ridge, cited in the SLA designation as the only example in Blaenau Gwent.
The limited inter-visibility with the lower-lying local valley settlements, which arises from the topography and landscape components including established blocks and belts of woodland limits effects on visual amenity from the surrounding area. Whilst the site boundary is partly within Caerphilly County Borough (‘CCB’) and some of the site will, in theory, be visible from CCB, actual visibility is confined to localised short distance views. The southern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park boundary is located approximately 4 km to the north of the application site at its closest point.
The site benefits from a high level of visual containment created by the surrounding landscape. Longer range views demonstrate that the Proposed Development will have either no effect or a negligible effect on landscape character and will be viewed by few receptors from upland locations to the south west of the site, where successive and sequential views of turbines development are already available.
There are few receptors within this secluded upland valley.
Consequently, there are a very limited number of visual receptors that would undergo the highest effects. These are limited to those in the immediate vicinity of the Application Site, namely residents living in nucleated farm complexes and private residences scattered throughout the study area, walkers using the PRoWs and access land and road users. The proposal would appear as a prominent new element within local views but not to such an extent that it prevents receptors enjoying views to the expansive landscape setting in which the proposal would be seen.
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In the long term, the decommissioning of the Proposed Development would result in the reversal of the effects associated with the operation of the proposed development i.e. the landscape and visual effects of the proposed arrays on landscape character and views would cease following removal.
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1 Introduction
1.1 The purpose of this Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) is to identify and assess the likely landscape and visual effects that would result from the construction of a Solar Photovoltaic Park and associated infrastructure on approximately 58 hectares (ha) of farmland adjacent to Waun- Tysswg Farm, Abertysswg, Rhymney, South Wales, hereafter referred to in this LVA as the ‘Proposed Development’.
1.2 The site, hereafter referred to in this report as the ‘Application Site’, is situated approximately 0.2km to the northeast of Abertysswg, approximately 0.5km to the southwest of Tredegar and approximately 3.5km southwest of Ebbw Vale. The assessment has been prepared in response to pre-application consultation (reference: PA/2016/0144) with Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council (BGCBC), within which much of the application site lies and Caerphilly County Borough Council (CCBC) which the north-western boundary of the Application site encroaches within the administrative boundary of.
1.3 A plan showing the redline boundary of the Application Site and its context are shown in the Site Location Plan in Figure 1.
1.4 This report considers the effects on:
. Landscape elements and features; . Landscape Character; and . Visual Amenity.
1.5 A detailed methodology is provided in Appendix 1.
1.6 The report provides an overview of the Application Site within the landscape and visual context of the surrounding area and sets out the planning context of the Application Site with reference to landscape issues. The existing baseline landscape features and landscape character, which together make up the landscape resource, are described and reference is made to published landscape character studies and any relevant landscape designations. The current visibility of the Application Site from selected representative viewpoints in the surrounding landscape is also assessed.
1.7 A description of the Proposed Development is provided and the potential effects of these proposals on the landscape resource and the visual environment are identified. Mitigation measures, which form an integral part of the Proposed Development, are also described together with how these measures are likely to prevent, reduce or offset any perceived adverse effects. Refer to the Site Layout Plan JPW0622-WAU-002 provided in Figure 2.
1.8 In consultation with the BGCBC and CCBC, an assessment is then made of the effects of the Proposed Development on the landscape and visual environment during the first winter following completion of the development (Year 1) and for the summer 5 years after completion of the development (Year 5).
1.9 Landscape effects refer to changes arising from the Proposed Development on the physical elements that make up the landscape and which influence its character. These, together, form the landscape resource. Visual effects refer to the changes to existing views available from representative Viewpoints within the landscape surrounding the Application Site.
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2 Assessment methodologies
Relevant Guidance 2.1 The report has been carried out with regard to best practice as described in the documents below:
. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment GLVIA3, (2013); . GLVIA3 Statement of Clarification 1/13; . An Approach to Landscape Character Assessment, Natural England (2014); . Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Advice Note 01/11, Landscape Institute (2011); and . Planning Policy Wales LANDMAP Guidance Note 1: LANDMAP and Special Landscape Areas (2016) and . Planning Policy Wales LANDMAP Guidance Note 3: (2013).
2.2 The Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA3) are broad guidelines rather than detailed prescriptive methodologies. The methodologies tailored for the assessment of the Proposed Development are based on GLVIA3 guidance and are presented in detail at Appendix A. and summarised below.
2.3 Landscape and visual studies provide an analysis of the physical and perceptual attributes of an area. The assessment of landscape issues relates to the potential effect of development on the landscape resource, which encompasses landscape character, quality and distinctive features, including topography, drainage, vegetation and built features, whereas the study of visual constraints is concerned with the potential effect on views and visual amenity.
2.4 The analysis of visual constraints includes the identification of important views towards the Application Site, which are generally from a range of visual receptors, both public (highways and public rights of way) and private (residential properties and places of employment). Visual receptors are of varying sensitivity to change, with views from the ground floors of private residences generally accepted as being more sensitive to change than those from highways or places of work where attention is focussed elsewhere. Public rights of way through rural areas with attractive landscapes, which are used for recreational purposes, are also usually accepted as being of high sensitivity to change.
Landscape Assessment Methodology 2.5 The landscape assessment combines the results of both an objective and subjective appraisal of the landscape. This appraisal consisted of three stages including a desk study, a field survey and an analysis of the likely effects resulting from the Proposed Development in the light of these studies.
2.6 The study area for the assessment extends to a radial distance of 5km from the Application Site boundary. Whilst there may be the potential for effects of the Proposed Development to extend beyond this limit, it is considered that the visual perception of the Proposed Development within
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the landscape is likely diminish with ever increasing distance and the Proposed Development, where visible, would be seen as an increasingly smaller component of the wider composite view.
Desk Study 2.7 The desk study involved an examination of 1:25,000 scale Ordnance Survey maps and aerial photographs to establish the general context of the study area. This was followed by an analysis of relevant documentation (reports, development plans, assessments, government guidance etc.) to clarify the landscape and planning context.
Fieldwork 2.8 Fieldwork involved a visual survey of the Application Site and the surrounding area to assess its character and identify key landscape elements and features.
Analysis 2.9 Based on the findings of the desk study and field survey, distinctive elements in the landscape, the pattern of their arrangement and dominant features were identified and the existing character and quality of the affected landscape described.
2.10 An assessment was then made of the degree of change to various landscape components or elements and the overall landscape character that would result from the proposed development and the nature of any potential effects was assessed.
2.11 Effects on the landscape can be defined as the relationship between the sensitivity of the landscape receptor and the magnitude of any change which the proposals would create. Effects may be adverse, beneficial or neutral in nature.
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3 Visual Assessment Methodology
3.1 An assessment has been undertaken to determine the degree of visual effect of the Proposed Development upon visual receptors in the surrounding landscape.
Desk Study 3.2 In order to help determine the extent of the study area for a landscape and visual assessment, a computer generated Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) is frequently used. Preparation of a ZTV is recommended in GLVIA3 which states: “it makes clear that the area so defined only shows land from which the proposal may theoretically be visible” (para. 6.8, p.103).
3.3 The ZTV Plan (Figure 6) shows areas from which the Proposed Development may be visible is provided. The ZTV takes account for the screening effects of existing significant vegetation blocks (modelled at 12m) and built form (modelled at 9m), uses an assumed observer height of 1.5m and a 3m height for the photovoltaic panels. Landform data was taken from OS Terrain 5 mapping, using point data across the Application Site.
3.4 A 5km radius has been selected for the extent of the study area used for this assessment which is considered to be consistent with GLVIA3 guidelines which refer to a “need for an approach that is in proportion to the scale of the project that is being assessed and the nature of the likely effects. Judgement needs to be exercised at all stages in terms of the scale of investigation that is appropriate and proportional.” 3.5 Visual receptors include the public or community at large and residents and visitors to an area. Viewpoints looking towards the Proposed Development have been selected from varying distances and directions to represent these visual receptors. These include views from the Public Rights of Way (PRoW) and areas Access Land, highways, places of recreation and other potentially important areas including Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs).
3.6 Representative Viewpoints were agreed via Email with both BGCBC Council and CCBC on 12th and 14th October 2016 respectively.
Fieldwork 3.7 The provisional identification of representative viewpoints was refined by subsequent fieldwork, at which stage visual receptors identified from the desk study that might experience an effect were either confirmed or omitted. These Viewpoints included those from highways and public rights of way, as well as residential properties. Existing views from a representative number of these locations were recorded photographically (see Figure 6 for Viewpoint locations).
3.8 Baseline photographs were taken at eye level from the representative viewpoints, using a digital SLR camera with an f1.4 50mm fixed focal length lens in 35mm film format in accordance with Landscape Institute guidelines. The representative viewpoints are shown in Figures 7 - 18 of this assessment and a description of each representative Viewpoint has been provided.
Analysis 3.9 The existing views were then compared with those that would result if the Proposed Development was to be constructed. In consultation with the LPA, the comparative changes in the views have been assessed for the winter of the first year following completion of the
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Proposed Development and then for the anticipated views of the Proposed Development in the summer months 5 years after construction.
3.10 Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and the Woodland Trust have confirmed that there is no commercial forestry within the 5km study radius. Consequently, increased visibility of the Proposed Development during its life-span is unlikely as a result of commercial woodland felling.
Limitations of the Landscape and Visual Assessments 3.11 The visual assessment has been based on analysis of OS mapping of the Application Site and the surrounding area and on a field survey of views towards the Application Site from publicly accessible viewpoints in the surrounding landscape. Although every effort has been made to include viewpoints in sensitive locations and locations from which the development would be most visible, not all public viewpoints from which the development would be seen have necessarily been included in the assessment.
3.12 The visual assessment and associated field work has been carried out during October 2016 with diminishing foliage on deciduous trees and hedgerows, presenting a semi-optimal scenario in terms of potential views towards the Proposed Development. Views towards the Proposed Development may increase during the winter months with the complete absence of foliage on trees and hedgerows and conversely decrease during the summer months with trees and hedgerows in full leaf.
3.13 With the exception of the Application Site itself, no access to private land or property was obtained during the course of the assessment.
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4 Baseline Conditions
Landscape Baseline 4.1 The aim of the baseline study is to describe the individual components of the physical landscape which are present on-site and within the study area and to provide an understanding of how the landscape’s constituent elements including its character, its spatial variation, geographic extent, condition and the way in which the landscape is experienced and the value attached to it may be effected by the Proposed Development.
4.2 The Application Site is centred on National Grid Reference (NGR) ST 13583, 06731 approximately 0.2km to the northeast of Abertysswg, approximately 0.5km to the southwest of Tredegar and approximately 3.5km southwest of Ebbw Vale. The settlements of Oakdale, Bargoed, Blackwood, Crumlin and Newbridge effectively combine to form an east-west aligned ribbon of settlement at a distance of between 6km and 8km to the south of the Application Site. The larger settlements of Merthyr Tydfil and Abergavenny are located approximately 9km west and 16km northeast respectively outside of the study area.
4.3 The redline boundary of the Application Site includes approximately 57.8ha of a shallow south western facing valley. The Application Site comprises a total of thirty irregularly-shaped but broadly rectilinear fields separated by a combination of post and wire fencing, localised belts of pioneer deciduous trees, water courses and gullies which become increasingly pronounced towards the site’s western boundary.
4.4 The Waun-Tysswg farm complex, located within the redline boundary and to towards the eastern boundary of the Application Site comprises the occupied farmhouse itself and several agricultural buildings of varying sizes. A level area of hardstanding is located immediately to the south.
4.5 Overhead power lines are located towards the eastern edge of the Application Site.
Description of surrounding area
Landscape designations 4.6 The Application Site does not form part of any statutory landscape designations.
4.7 The Application Site forms part of the locally designated and non-statutory Mynydd Bedwellty, Rhymney Hill and Sirhowy Sides Special Landscape Area (SLA). The southern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park boundary is located approximately 4km to the north and 3km to the east of the Application Site at its closest points. A Landscape Designation Plan is provided in Figure 3.
Settlements and built form 4.8 The nearest settlements to the Application Site are:
. Abertysswg (approximately 0.1km to the southwest); . Tredegar (approximately 0.5km northeast); . Rhymney (approximately 1km west); and . Ebbw Vale (approximately 2km northeast).
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4.9 The Application Site is situated to the due northeast of existing residential development at Abertysswg. Additionally, there are a small number of individual farm complexes and private residences within the surrounding area. These include:
. Waun-Tysswg Farm (within the redline boundary of the Application Site); . The Mountain Ash Inn (approximately 0.08km east); . Cefn Golau Cottage (0.5km north) . Celland Du Farm directly to the east of the Mountain Ash Inn (approximately 0.1km east); . Residential properties at Greensway, Arthur Street, Barkley Street and Charles Street at Abertysswg (closest 0.2km southwest); . Heathcock (approximately 0.4km west); . Cwm-Tyswwg (approximately 0.3km west); . Individual private residences along Attlee Way and Gainsborough Road, Tredegar (approximately 0.6km north); and . Individual private residences aligning to the south from Tan-Y-Bryn (approximately 1.1km west).
Listed Buildings 4.10 Listed Buildings are shown on the Historic Designation Plan in Figure 4. There are a number of listed buildings in the study area. These are generally located in clusters within the settlements of Tredegar, Rhymney and Ebbw Vale. Individual and nucleated Listed Buildings within the study area include:
. The Fountain Inn and associated stables and barn, Grade II, (to the south of Troedrhiwgwair, approximately 1.8km east); and . Church of St. Tyfaelog ( to the southeast of Pontlottyn, approximately 1.8km west); and . Barn range at Cefnrhychdir, Grade II, (approximately 2.5km south).
Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) 4.11 There are a number of SAMs in the study area. These include:
. Cefn Golau Cholera Cemetery (approximately 0.2km north); . Incline Haulage Winding Engine at Mynydd Bedwellty (approximately 1.3km southeast); . Y Domen Fawr Round Cairn (approximately 2.5km east); and . Cefn Man Moel Cross-Ridge Dyke (approximately 3km southeast).
Public Highways 4.12 Charles Street is located beyond the Application Site’s eastern boundary. The B4256 extends to the south and then to west from Tredegar in the direction of Rhymney passing approximately 0.3km to the northern and western boundaries of the Application Site at its closest point. A new access will be formed from the northwest corner of the site onto the B4256, approximately 200m south of Cwm-Tysswg Farm.
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4.13 The B4257 and the A469 align towards the southeast from the A465 at approximate respective distances of 2.1km and 2.6km to the northwest of the Application Site.
4.14 The A465, the only primary route in the study area and connecting Merthyr Tydfil with Abergavenny is located approximately 3.3km to the northwest of the Application Site.
4.15 The remaining public highways within the study area are limited to unnamed roads and lanes connecting villages, hamlets farm complexes and private residences.
Rail 4.16 A branch line passes approximately 1.6km to the southwest of the Application Site the terminus of which is at Rhymney.
Topography 4.17 The Application Site is located on an upland south western facing shallow valley between the Rhymney Valley (southwest) and the Sirhowy Valley (northeast).
4.18 The topography of the Application Site descends from approximately 370m Above Ordnance Datum (AOD) on its north-eastern boundary to approximately 280m AOD on its south-western boundary. In the immediate context of the Application Site, the land to the north and to the east rises to 457m AOD at Rhymney Hill and at Carn Stwpa respectively whilst to the southeast the land rises to 486m AOD at Twyn yr Hyddod (at the northern edge of a northwest-southeast aligned upland plateau comprising Mynydd Bedwellte). Beyond the south-western boundary of the Application Site the land descends to approximately 220m AOD in the vicinity of the Rhymney valley before rising again to 442m AOD to the south of Pontlottyn. The Application Site is lower-lying in comparison to the surrounding landscape.
4.19 The topography in the wider context of the Application Site in the surrounding area is similar to that in Site’s immediate context. The notable exception is that towards the northern extremities of the study area the land rises to 617m AOD at Cefn yr Ystrad on the southern fringes of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Trees, woodland and hedgerows 4.20 Notable areas of woodland in the area immediately surrounding the Application Site tend to be confined to valley edges and watercourses. An area of predominantly mixed woodland is located on an eastern facing ridgeline to the south of the Application Site and to the east of Abertysswg bisected by Charles Street. Fragmented pockets of deciduous woodland are located along the lower-lying River Rhymney corridor to the south of Abertysswg.
4.21 An extensive area of coniferous woodland occupies the western facing slopes of the Sirhowy Valley towards the south-eastern extremities if the study area and fragments towards the north before becoming more extensive beyond the south-eastern edge of Tredegar
4.22 The study area is largely absent of hedgerows as field boundaries are generally characterised and defined by dry stone walls. Hedgerows are locally present; however, these are associated with the highway network and are confined to the lower-lying land to the south, are of poor quality, undermanaged and comprise fragmented sections of pioneer vegetation.
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Public Rights of Way (PRoW) and public access 4.23 The study area contains numerous PRoW many of which connect the valley settlements of Rhymney, Abertysswg, Tredegar and Ebbw Vale with the higher surrounding landscape.
4.24 The Application Site includes one PRoW – restricted byway 339/24/1 which aligns to the northwest from Charles Street, and then broadly to the north, passing through the Waun-Tysswg Farm complex before returning to Charles Street.
4.25 The closest PRoW outside the Application boundary within Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council’s control are:
. Public footpath 339/25/1 - running parallel to Charles Street approximately 75m to the east of the Application Site at its closest point; . Public footpath 339/10/1 – broadly aligning to the south from Charles Street and to the south of the Mountain Ash Inn approximately 0.1km to the east of the Application Site; . Public footpath 339/16/1 – aligning to the northeast from the east of Charles Street approximately 0.12km to the east of the Application Site; and . Public footpath 339/14/1 – aligning to the south from the east of the Mountain Ash Inn approximately 0.3km to the east of the Application Site.
4.26 The closest PRoW outside the Application Site within Caerphilly County Borough Council’s control are:
. Rhymney FP66 and Rhymney FP68 (footpaths) – aligning to the southwest from Charles Street approximately 0.2km and 0.5km to the southeast of the Application Site respectively; . Rhymney FP64 (footpath) – aligning to the south from the B4256 approximately 0.4km to the west of the Application Site; . Rhymney BR50 and Rhymney BR53 (footpaths) – aligning to the west from Heathcock approximately 0.5km to the northwest of the Application Site. . Bedwellty RBW16 (restricted byway) – aligning to the southeast and broadly parallel to the unnamed road at the foot of Mynydd Bedwellte approximately 0.6km to the southeast of the Application Site; and . Rhymney RBW61 (restricted byway) – extending broadly to the southwest, then to the northwest from Station Road, Abertysswg approximately 0.7km to the southwest of the Application Site.
4.27 There are two long distance promoted trails in the study area. The Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk is located beyond Rhymney approximately 2.7km to the west of the Application Site and the Sirhowy Valley Walk approximately 4.2km to the east of the Application Site.
4.28 A notable area of Access Land situated to the north of the Application Site on the intervening land between Rhymney and Tredegar, extend to the southeast and includes the Mynydd Bedwellte.
4.29 To the west of the Application Site, beyond Rhymney, extensive but fragmented areas of Access Land extend from the south-eastern edge of Merthyr Tydfil.
4.30 To the north of the A465 areas of Access Land become more extensive towards the southern boundary of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
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Watercourses and waterbodies 4.31 The Application Site is drained by a number of minor water courses, many of which respect the internal field boundary network and align towards the southwest into Nant Tyswg.
4.32 Major watercourses in the study area reflect the topography of the surrounding landscape. The majority rise on the southern fringe of the Brecons Beacons and are contained within the south eastern aligned valleys. The River Rhymney aligns to the southeast passing through Rhymney approximately 1.5km southwest of the Application Site. The River Sirhowy extends from Shon- Sheffrey’s Reservoir passing to the east of the Application Site at an approximate distance of 0.8km. The River Ebbw is located approximately 3.3km east of the Application Site.
4.33 The land surrounding the Application Site to the south contains a numerous drainage ditches and minor watercourses that rise on the higher ground and drain into the major river systems.
4.34 There numerous static waterbodies in the study area. An artificial lake is located 0.35km beyond the Application Site’s northern boundary, whilst a lake associated with Parc Bryn Bach is located approximately 2.3km to the north of the Application Site.
4.35 A number of small reservoirs and agricultural attenuation ponds are located towards the northern and north-western extremities of the study area beyond the A465.
4.36 Ordnance Survey mapping shows numerous springs and wells in the study area.
Recreation 4.37 Tredegar and Rhymney Gold Club is located on the higher ground approximately 0.4km west of the Application Site.
4.38 There are numerous promoted recreational areas within the study area, many of which form part of the open access land within coniferous plantations. There are a number LPA or NRW controlled plantations and smaller pockets of woodland in the study area.
4.39 Coed y Rhyd (approximately 1.6km northeast of the Application Site) occupies part of a south western facing slope beyond the south-eastern flank of Georgetown and includes a car park and a fishing lake.
4.40 Tyla-du Plantation (approximately 2.6km southwest of the Application Site) occupies part of a north eastern facing slope and including numerous PRoW. Cwmllywdrew Meadows Nature Reserve is located on its south-western edge.
4.41 Parc Bryn Bach (approximately 2.5km to the north of the Application Site) on the southern edge of the A465 comprises extensive areas of mixed amenity woodland, a large lake used for water sports, golf and play facilities.
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5 Description of Proposals
5.1 The application proposes the installation of free-standing, static solar photovoltaic (PV) panels anticipated to generate 30,000 kW of electricity per annum. This is sufficient to power approximately 9,000 homes. Should the application be approved, the solar park will generate electricity every day of the year for a project lifespan of 30 years. The project is fully reversible so that any visual impacts are temporary in nature only and the land can be returned to agricultural use following relatively minor decommissioning works. The site layout plan (Dwg. JPW0622-WAU-022, revision H) is shown in Figure 2.
5.2 The solar farm is made of four separate elements as follows:
. Solar panel modules; . 15m high lattice tower . Inverters; and . Substation.
5.3 The solar panels will be arranged in a series of rows up to a height of 3 m at the highest point and tilted southwards at an angle of, typically, 10–25 degrees from horizontal.
Solar panel modules 5.4 The proposed solar farm will be made up of smooth glass solar panels of 2m x 1m x 0.05m. When sunlight hits the solar cells a voltage develops between the treated silicone and the semi- conductor material and direct current (DC) is generated.
5.5 The solar panels will be mounted in pairs, one above the other, on static aluminium frames, giving an overall maximum height of approximately 3 m above the ground. The panels are tilted, typically at an angle of 10-25 degrees from horizontal, south. The frame uprights are screwed or pushed into the ground, avoiding the use of concrete and hard standing.
5.6 The mountings housing the solar panels are then assembled by hand.
5.7 The panels are designed to absorb, rather than reflect, sunlight and result in limited nuisance or light pollution.
Inverters 5.8 Inverters are required to convert the DC generated by the photovoltaic (PV) panels to grid compatible alternating current (AC).
Substation 5.9 Cabling from panels and inverters are routed to the substation via a network of shallow backfilled trenches. The substation comprises a small-prefabricated building, approximately the size of a small portacabin, containing switchgear to increase the voltage to feed into the National Grid.
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Fencing 5.10 A 2.4 m green paladin fence is erected around the site for health, safety and insurance purposes. Matching gates are provided at key access points at the site.
Other operational development 5.11 CCTV will be installed at the site, pointing inwards, for monitoring and security purposes.
5.12 At the request of the electricity Distribution Network Operator (DNO), a 15m high, slim line lattice antennae will be positioned on the site. The antennae will enable the automated control of generation at the site to ensure stability in the localised electricity network.
Access track 5.13 The access track into the site from the west will be bridge over the Nant Tyswg in one location where the channel is 1-2m wide.
Construction 5.14 The construction phase of the development will take approximately 4 months.
5.15 A site compound will be necessary for storage of equipment and housing of temporary site offices.
5.16 The limited noise and traffic associated with construction will be kept within reasonable daytime working hours.
Operation 5.17 The solar farm will begin operation following construction and grid connection.
5.18 The PV panels will generate electricity every day for the project lifespan of 30 years.
5.19 The solar farm will not be manned permanently. The installation will be monitored remotely. There will, however, be regular maintenance visits by a team of engineers, on two or more occasions per year, in addition to regular landscape and cleaning maintenance.
Decommissioning 5.20 The solar farm is designed to be fully reversible at the end of the lifetime of the project. Solar panels, cabling, inverters, sub-station and other paraphernalia are removed leaving only small holes, trenches and areas to be back filled. The land can then revert to its previous use.
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6 Planning Policy Context
Planning Policy Wales (PPW) Edition 9 (November 2016) 6.1 Chapter 4 – Planning for Sustainability paragraph 4.5.2 states that: “The Welsh Government has set out to achieve annual carbon reduction-equivalent emissions reductions of 3 per cent per year from 2011 in areas of devolved competence, which include land use planning. We are also committed to achieving at least a 40% reduction in all greenhouse gas emissions in Wales by 2020 against a 1990 baseline. This will assist in making a significant contribution to the UK Carbon Budgets. The Climate Change Strategy for Wales4 and associated Delivery Plans on Emission Reduction and Adaptation set out how we intend to limit greenhouse gas emissions and adjust to changes in our climate.”
6.2 Paragraph 4.7.8 states:
“Development in the countryside should be located within and adjoining those settlements where it can be best be accommodated in terms of infrastructure, access and habitat and landscape conservation.”
6.3 Chapter 12 - Infrastructure and Services paragraph 12.8.1 states: “The UK is subject to the requirements of the EU Renewable Energy Directive. These include a UK target of 15% of energy from renewables by 2020. The UK Renewable Energy Roadmap sets the path for the delivery of these targets, promoting renewable energy to reduce global warming and to secure future energy supplies. The Welsh Government is committed to playing its part by delivering an energy programme which contributes to reducing carbon emissions as part of our approach to tackling climate change whilst enhancing the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the people and communities of Wales in order to achieve a better quality of life for our own and future generations. This is outlined in the Welsh Government’s Energy Policy Statement Energy Wales: A Low Carbon Transition (2012).”
Technical Advice Note (TAN) 8: Planning Renewable Energy 6.4 Technical Advice Note Paragraph 3.15 (Solar Thermal and Solar Photo-voltaic (PV)) states:
“…other than in circumstances where impact is critically damaging to a listed building, ancient monument or a conservation area vista, proposals for appropriately designed solar thermal and PV systems should be supported.”
Welsh Government Practice Guidance: Planning Implications of Renewable and Low Carbon Energy February 2011 (PG to TAN 8) 6.5 The practice guidance sets out the land use planning impacts and benefits of different forms of such developments, including solar energy generation. Whilst recognising that solar PV arrays are an emerging technology in the UK, it provides a summary of potential impacts and design mitigation and enhancement measures of solar installations.
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Blaenau Gwent Local Development Plan (2012) 6.6 The Blaenau Gwent Local Development Plan (adopted 2012) contains the following policies that are considered to be relevant to the Proposed Development:
Policy SP7 - Climate Change states: “The Council will seek to address climate change and reduce energy demand to improve the sustainability of the valley communities in Blaenau Gwent by:
. Addressing the causes of climate change through: . Encouraging more of the County Borough’s electricity and heat requirements to be generated by renewable and low/zero carbon technologies; . Supporting development proposals that incorporate decentralised heating, cooling and power networks powered by renewable energy sources, or that connect to existing communal/district heating networks such as that proposed on MU1 and MU2; and . Promoting efficient use of land through giving preference to brownfield land and development at higher densities on sites located close to transport corridors or town centres and mixed use allocations.”
Adapting to direct and indirect impacts of climate change through:
. Ensuring that developments accord with objectives of sustainability and good design; . Directing new development away from those areas which are at high risk of flooding; and . Managing flood risk through incorporating measures in design and construction to reduce the effects of flooding.”
Policy SP10 - Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Environment States: “Blaenau Gwent’s unique, natural environment and designated landscape will be protected, and, where appropriate, enhanced. This will be achieved through:
. Protecting, enhancing and managing Cwm Merddog Woodlands/Coed Ty’n y Gelli and Brynmawr Sections and Mynydd Llangynidr Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); . Ensuring that development does not have a significant effect on the neighbouring Usk Bat Site, Cwm Clydach Woodlands, Aberbargoed Grasslands, Sugar Loaf Woodlands or the River Usk Special Area of Conservation (SAC); . Ensuring that the locally identified Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) and Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) species are protected and enhanced; . Protecting those attributes and features which make a significant contribution to the character, quality and amenity of the landscape; . Maintaining and enhancing the Green Infrastructure including creating a network of local wildlife sites and wildlife corridors, links and stepping stones; . Ensuring development seeks to produce a net gain in nature conservation by designing in wildlife, and ensuring any avoidable impacts are appropriately mitigated for; and . Ensuring development proposals do not have an unacceptable adverse impact upon the water environment and contribute to improving water quality where practicable.”
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Policy SP12 – Securing an Adequate Supply of Minerals states: Blaenau Gwent will contribute to local, regional and national aggregate supplies by:
. Maintaining a minimum 10-year land bank of permitted aggregate reserves in line with national planning policy and addressing the 3Mt apportionment identified in the Regional Technical Statement; . Safeguarding existing mineral reserves and potential resources from development that would preclude their future extraction; . Encouraging the pre-working of mineral resources, where appropriate; . Ensuring that future mineral working accords with national planning policy in terms of protecting areas of importance of natural and built heritage and limiting the environmental impact of mineral extraction; . Ensuring that neighbouring communities and sensitive uses are not adversely impacted by mineral and coal operations; and . Promoting the efficient use of minerals and use of alternatives to naturally occurring minerals including the re-use of secondary aggregates.
6.7 The following contained within Development Management (DM) Policies are considered to be relevant to the Proposed Development.
DM1 - New Development States: “Development proposals will be permitted provided: -
1. Sustainable Design
a. Energy efficient design is achieved;
b. The proposal makes efficient and effective use of resources by employing sustainable building techniques, incorporating energy and water conservation measures, and wherever possible, the use of renewable energy;
c. Construction waste and pollution is minimised and the proposal incorporates facilities for the segregation, recovery and recycling of waste;
d. Recycled or sustainable products and resources are used in construction, where practicable;
e. The proposal reduces surface water run off through minimising an increase in impermeable surfaces and using Sustainable Drainage systems, where appropriate; and
f. The proposal does not result in a net loss of biodiversity and provides where necessary mitigation and/or compensation measures.
2. Amenity
a. The development would be compatible with other uses in the locality;
b. There would be no unacceptable adverse visual impact on townscape or landscape;
c. There would be no unacceptable impact upon the amenities of neighbouring occupiers;
d. In the case of residential development including extensions and sub-division of dwellings, dwellings must be of appropriate size to provide satisfactory levels of amenity;
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e. There would be no adverse impact upon the water environment or an unacceptable risk to the quality of controlled waters (including groundwater and surface water); f. The proposal contributes to improving water quality wherever practicable; f. The proposal does not result in airborne emissions which have an unacceptable effect on the health, amenity or natural environment of the surrounding area, taking into account cumulative effects of other proposed or existing sources of air pollution in the vicinity. g. There would be no unacceptable risk of harm to health and/or local amenity from unacceptably high levels of noise, vibration, odour or light pollution; h. The land is made stable and capable of supporting the development without risk of damage to buildings on the site or adjoining land; and i. Practicable and effective measures are taken to treat, contain or control any contamination. j. Practicable and effective measures are taken to treat, contain or control any contamination.
3. Accessibility a. The proposal has regard for the safe, effective and efficient use of the transportation network; b. The proposal ensures that developments are designed to an appropriate standard that prioritises the interests of pedestrians, cyclists and public transport before that of the private car; c. The proposal secures appropriate provision for people with special access and mobility requirements; d. Parking, appropriate servicing and operational space has been provided; and e. Where a Transport Assessment and Travel Plan is required by national planning policy, they must demonstrate that there will be no adverse impact on trip generation and travel demand”.
DM3 - Infrastructure Provision states: “Proposals for new development will be expected to meet the infrastructure needs that it generates, including the improvement or provision of infrastructure, services and community facilities. Where on-site provision cannot be achieved, off-site provision or a financial contribution will be expected. Arrangements for the provision of infrastructure will be secured by the use of planning conditions attached to a planning permission or planning obligations in legal agreements or via the Community Infrastructure Levy. The Council will seek to ensure that, subject to viability, the impact of new development is mitigated to ensure that it contributes to the regeneration of local communities in Blaenau Gwent.”
DM4 Low and Zero Carbon Energy states: “The Council will encourage major development proposals to incorporate schemes which generate energy from renewable and low/zero carbon technologies. These technologies include onshore wind; landfill gas; energy crops; energy from waste; anaerobic digestion; sewage gas; hydropower; biomass; combined heat and power; and solar.
These technologies will be permitted provided that: a. Appropriate monitoring and investigation can demonstrate that the development will not have any unacceptable adverse impact on nature conservation and the character and appearance of the landscape;
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b. Appropriate arrangements have been made for the preservation and/or recording of features of local archaeological, architectural or historic interest; c. They can be safely accessed to permit regular maintenance without an unacceptable adverse impact to the environment or the public rights of way network; d. They will not have an unacceptable adverse impact on local amenity by reason of noise emission, visual dominance, shadow flicker, reflected light, the emission of smoke, fumes, harmful gases, dust, nor otherwise cause pollution to the local environment; e. They will not lead to electromagnetic disturbance to existing transmitting and receiving systems (which includes navigation and emergency services), thereby prejudicing public safety; f. Local receptors of heat and energy from the proposal are identified and, where appropriate, are connected to/benefit from the facility; and g. Provision has been made for the removal of all infrastructure from, and reinstatement of the site following termination of the use.”
DM14 - Biodiversity Protection and Enhancement states: “1. Development proposals within 10 km of the Usk Bat Sites Special Area of Conservation (SAC) that would have an impact on connectivity corridors or cause direct or indirect disturbance to the features must be subject to a project level Habitat Regulation Assessment (HRA).
2. Development proposals will only be permitted within, or in close proximity to sites designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs), and Local Nature Reserves (LNRs), or that affect ecological corridors and Priority Habitats and Species, where either:
. It maintains or enhances the ecological or geological importance of the designation and species, or . The need for the development outweighs the nature conservation importance of the site/ species and it can be demonstrated that the development cannot reasonably be located elsewhere and compensatory provision will be made equivalent to that lost as a result of the development.”
DM15 Protection and Enhancement of the Green Infrastructure states:
“Development proposals will be permitted provided:
1. There is no loss in connectivity within the Strategic Green Infrastructure network which comprises: a. River Corridors b. Special Landscape Areas
2. Where appropriate, they facilitate connections to Strategic and Local Green Infrastructure; and
3. Where appropriate, they create natural open space and features to enhance linkages between the Green Infrastructure.”
DM16 Trees, Woodlands and Hedgerow Protection states: “Development proposals will be permitted provided there would not be unacceptable harm to trees, woodlands and hedgerows that have natural heritage value or contribute to the character or amenity of a particular locality.”
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DM17 Buildings and Structures of Local Importance states: “Development proposals affecting buildings or structures which make an important contribution to the character and/or interest of the local area will only be permitted where: -
The building’s distinctive appearance, architectural integrity and its setting would not be significantly adversely affected and/or;
a. The benefits of the proposal would outweigh any adverse effects.
The benefits of the proposal would outweigh any adverse effects.”
DM19 - Mineral Safeguarding states: “Development proposals will not be permitted where they would permanently sterilise important mineral resources within Aggregate and Coal Safeguarding Areas identified on the Proposals map unless: -
a. The mineral resource is recovered before development commences; or
b. The developer satisfactorily demonstrates that the extraction of the mineral is impracticable, uneconomic or environmentally unacceptable; or
c. The scale and location of the development would have no significant impact on the possible working of the resource: or
d. It is temporary development and can be implemented and the site restored within the timescale the mineral is likely to be required.”
6.8 The following Environmental (Env) Policies are considered to be relevant to the Proposed Development.
Policy ENV2 - Special Landscape Areas (SLA) states: “Special Landscape Areas are identified and will be protected at the following locations:
1. St Illtyd Plateau and Ebbw Eastern Sides
2. Eastern Ridge and Mynydd James
3. Cwm Tyleri and Cwm Celyn
4. Mynydd Carn-y-Cefn and Cefn yr Arail
5. Mynydd Bedwellty, Rhymney Hill and Sirhowy Sides
6. Cefn Manmoel
7. Trefil and Garnlydan Surrounds
8. Beaufort Common”
6.9 Much of rural Blaenau Gwent County Borough outside the defined settlement boundaries, lies with the SLA. The Application site is situated within the SLA of Mynydd Bedwellty, Rhymney Hill and Sirhowy Sides. This sub-division of the wider non-statutory, SLA designation, extends from southern edge of Bryn Bach Park and the western edge of Tredegar in the north to the county boundary in the south and includes all the Sirhowy valley western sides to the county boundary in the south.
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6.10 The ‘Proposals for Designation of Special Landscape Areas in Blaenau Gwent’1 document, further subdivides the Special Landscape Area into three main landscape types. “Rhymney Hill and Mynydd Bedwellty form the open upland ridge, similar to other ridges on the county. The steep east-facing sides of the Sirhowy valley, down to the A4048, are also primarily open land, with disused quarries and areas of tips. In the west there is the shallow side valley of Cwm Tysswg with its fields forming part of the Rhymney valley”. The primary landscape qualities of the open upland ridge are noted as “distinctive open skyline, including cairn and Cefn Golau cemetery…. panoramic views across to other ridges to the west…minor road along ridge”. Notable features of the Sirhowy sides include “varied backdrop to valley and A4048 with rock outcrops, quarries and woodland…. significant areas of pre-industrial fields….extensive length of valley side with no development. Primary landscape features of the shallow side valley of Cwm Tysswg include “secluded farmland, undisturbed by industrialisation and pleasant views into Rhymney valley.
6.11 The Proposed Development would be located entirely within the shallow side valley of Cwm Tysswg.
6.12 The following Mineral Policies are considered to be relevant to the Proposed Development.
Policy M1 - Safeguarding of Minerals states: “The following mineral resources are identified on the Proposals Maps:
1. The Limestone Resource
2. The Sandstone Resource
3. The Primary and Secondary Coal Resource”
Caerphilly County Borough Local Development Plan 6.13 This document contains local planning policies, which sit within the framework of national planning policies set out by the Welsh Government. These policies are designed to take forward the Local Development Plan objectives, spatial strategy and vision for this county. Whilst the site boundary, in the northwest, is only partly within CCBC administrative boundary a number of the representative viewpoints agreed with CCBC (clause 3.6) are within the council’s designated Visually Important Local Landscape. Policies of relevance to this Application Site are;
STRATEGY POLICY SP10 – Conservation of Natural heritage SP10 states: “The council will protect, conserve, enhance and manage the natural heritage of the County Borough in consideration of all development proposals within both the rural and built environment.
1 Proposals For Designation of Special Landscape Areas in Blaenau Gwent. March 2009. Bronwen Thomas landscape Architect
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Paragraph 1.72 states: “The term Natural Heritage covers the geology, geomorphology, biodiversity, landscape and amenity value of the County Borough. It embraces the relationships between landform and landscape, habitats and wildlife and the natural and built environment. It also includes natural features such as trees, woodlands, hedgerows and rivers. The natural heritage is not confined to the countryside or designated sites and is just as prevalent and important in our urban areas. The natural heritage is a positive asset that enriches people’s quality of life and promotes the regeneration of areas.
Paragraph 1.73 states: “Almost 80% of Caerphilly County Borough Council is classified as countryside, lies outside of defined settlement boundaries. Whilst change is inevitable and opportunities for growth and development of the Borough need to be provided, respecting the unique and distinctive features or characteristics of the natural heritage of the County Borough is essential in protecting, conserving, enhancing and managing the valuable features in both the natural and built environment.”
COUNTYWIDE POLICY CW4 – Natural Heritage Protection “Development proposals that affect locally designated natural heritage features, will only be permitted: A Where they conserve and where appropriate enhance the distinctive or characteristic features of the Special Landscape Area (SLA) or Visually Important Local Landscape (VILL).
B Within, or in close proximity to sites designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), Local Nature Reserves (LNR), Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS), Green Corridors, or Local Priority Habitats and Species, where proposals either: i Conserve and where appropriate enhance the ecological or geological importance of the designation, or ii Are such that the need for the development outweighs the ecological importance of the site, and where harm is minimised by mitigation measures and offset as far as practicable by compensation measures designed to ensure that there is no reduction in the overall value of the area or feature.
Paragraph 2.11 states: “the natural heritage of the County Borough is diverse and contains specific biodiversity protection areas from European to local designations, together with local landscape designations. It is important that these are protected from inappropriate development proposals that would, or would likely to have a detrimental effect upon distinctive biodiversity, geological or landscape features and characteristics of the County Borough. The level of potential harm will be assessed, taking into account, mitigation, compensatory and restoration measures.”
CW6 – Trees, Woodland and Hedgerow Protection “Development proposals on sites containing trees, woodlands and hedgerows, or which are bordered by one of more such trees or hedgerows, will only be permitted provided that:
A Where arboricultural surveys are required, they are submitted and approved, including any mitigation, compensation or management requirements, as part of the planning application.
B Root systems will be retained and adequately protected for the duration of all development activity on site.
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C Development proposals have made all reasonable efforts to retain, protect and integrate trees, woodlands or hedgerows within the development site.
D Where trees, woodlands or hedgerows are removed, suitable replacements are provided where appropriate”.
Area specific policies for HOVRA (Heads of the Valleys Regeneration Area).
NH2 – Visually Important Local Landscapes (VILLs) – visually important Local Landscapes are identified and will be protected at the following locations:
NH2.1 Northern Rhymney Valley
Paragraph 3.22 states: “Visually Important Local Landscapes (VILLs) are non-statutory designations that seek to protect the distinctive features or characteristics of the visual and sensory landscape of the County Borough and how we perceive and respond to the landscape around us. VILLS have been identified using only the visual and sensory layer of LANDMAP. The HOVRA has two Visually Important Local Landscapes.”
Paragraph 3.23 states: “Development will only be permitted where it conserves and, where appropriate, enhances the distinctive visual and sensory landscape features or characteristics of the VILL. Development proposals should demonstrate that these features of the visual and sensory LANDMAP aspect layer are conserved and, where appropriate enhanced for the benefit of the visual landscape. A detailed description of the VILL designations can be found in Appendix 2, which provides a summary of the distinctive visual and sensory landscape features and characteristics within the VILL.”
6.14 In accordance with national and local planning policy, the following RPS assessment utilises LANDMAP data and Blaenau Gwent’s SLA assessment.
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7 Effect on landscape elements and features
7.1 The effect on landscape elements relates to the direct effect on the physical fabric of the Application Site arising from the proposals. These are assessed as follows:
Site Topography 7.2 The Application Site is located at between 280m and 370m AOD on a southwest facing shallow valley within the Upper Rhymney and Bargeod Rhymney Valley Aspect Area which extends from Bargoed to the south to Tredegar in the north and includes much of the Rhymney and Sirhowy Valleys.
Sensitivity: The undulating farmland surrounding the Application Site is considered to be of Medium value and Medium susceptibility as its inter-visibility with the wider surrounding area is restricted by intervening topography. The overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be Medium.
Magnitude: The Application Site topography would remain largely unchanged except at a local level where remodelling may be required for site access roads, internal access tracks, and localised regrading to create level platforms. The arrays will be sited to follow the contours of the site. The Magnitude of Change is therefore considered to be Low.
Effect: With a Medium sensitivity and a Low Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would result in a Minor effect on site topography.
Trees and hedgerows 7.3 The fields separating the Application Site generally comprise post and wire fencing with localised sections of hedgerows, predominantly adjacent to watercourses and to the west of the Application Site. The Proposed Development would utilise the existing internal field access gateways negating the requirement for hedgerow removal.
7.4 A survey of trees undertaken by Mackley Davies Associates Ltd (November 2017) confirms that the proposed layout will require the removal of two trees, a category ‘C’ grey willow and a category ‘B’ hawthorn. It is proposed that selective felling of part of the conifer plantation, identified as P1 in the arboricultural report, will be undertaken to create new areas of marshy grassland habitat.
Sensitivity: The on-site hedgerows and trees are considered to be of High value and susceptibility as they comprise part of the non-statutory Mynydd Bedwellty, Rhymney Hill and Sirhowy Sides Special Landscape Area SLA which is evaluated as Outstanding in LANDMAP’s Cultural Landscape’s assessment. The overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be High.
Magnitude: There would be a minor loss of trees, as a result of the Proposed Development. Consequently, there would be a Low effect on trees and hedgerows.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and Low Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would result in a Moderate effect on hedgerows and trees on the Application Site according to the assessment criteria.
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Farmland 7.5 The ecological appraisal (RPS, 2018) indicates that the Application Site comprises semi- improved, unimproved and marshy grassland, acid grassland, bracken, tall ruderal vegetation, scrub and purple moor-grass and rush pasture. The land use of the Application Site would change from one of agriculture to one of renewable energy development comprising photovoltaic panels and permeable gravel tracks.
Sensitivity: the ecology appraisal confirms that “purple moor-grass marshy grassland with areas of acidic flush vegetation in the southern end of the site has high botanical diversity and high nature conservation value. Species diverse areas of soft rush dominated marshy grassland… also have features representative of high value habitat. All these areas class as UK BAP priority habitats”. The report confirms that there are no statutory nature conversation designations within 2km of the site. However, the Mynydd Bedwellte SINC is located along the northern and eastern boundaries of the site. The farmland is considered to be of high value and of high susceptibility due the presence of UK BAP Priority Habitats. The overall sensitivity is considered to be High.
Magnitude: the ecological appraisal advises that the layout has been designed to avoid higher value grassland habitats, with the arrays primarily located on semi-improved grassland and species-poor rush pasture. There will only be a small localised loss of purple moor-grass marshy grassland in the north-western part of the site. The majority of the existing farmland would be retained beneath the arrays and areas of pasture could continue to be grazed. Any changes would result from temporary disturbance during construction and from long term shading beneath the panels. It is proposed that selective felling of part of the conifer plantation, identified as P1 in the arboricultural report, will be undertaken to create new areas of marshy grassland habitat.
The magnitude of change is therefore considered to negligible.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and Negligible Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would result in a Minor effect on the farmland within the Application Site.
Public Rights of Way 7.6 A public right of way, restricted Byway 339/24/1 lies within the eastern periphery of the site, running broadly parallel with the unnamed road to the east. This Restricted Byway is proposed to be diverted as part of the application. The 500m diversion will run alongside the development just outside of the perimeter fencing as outlined in the layout Rev H.
Sensitivity: Public Rights of Way are considered to be of High susceptibility and value and consequently are of High sensitivity.
Magnitude: There would be a Negligible effect on the PRoW within the redline boundary of the Application Site.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Negligible Magnitude of Change, there would be Minor effect on Public Rights of Way through the Application Site according to the assessment criteria. However, in reality it is considered that there would be Negligible/No effect.
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Table 1: summary of effects on landscape elements.
Landscape Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Magnitude Effect Elements Site Medium Medium Medium Low Minor Topography Hedgerows High High High Low Moderate and Trees Farmland High High High Negligible Minor Public Rights High High High Negligible Negligible/No of Way Effect*
*indicates a negligible effect although minor in accordance with the methodology in Appendix 1
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8 Effect on Landscape Character
LANDMAP Aspect Areas 8.1 LANDMAP is the formally adopted methodology for landscape assessment and is advocated by Planning Policy Wales (PPW), is promoted by the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) and is considered to be a “whole” landscape approach that covers all landscapes, designated and non- designated in Wales.
8.2 LANDMAP separates each character area into nationally consistent data sets into the following five categories (Aspects):
. Geological Landscape; . Landscape Habitats; . Visual and Sensory Landscape; . Historic Landscape; and . Cultural Landscape.
Each category is provided with an evaluation level as follows:
Evaluation Definition Outstanding Of national importance
High Of regional or county importance to the aspect
Moderate Of local importance to the aspect
Low Of little or no importance to the aspect
Unknown Insufficient information exists to evaluate the area
Refer to LANDMAP Aspect Area Plans in Figures 5a-5g
A summary of each LANDMAP Aspect Area and description covering the site are provided in the Table 2 below:
Aspect type Area ID Area name Classification Evaluation Geological BLNGWGL006 Bedwellte Glacial Mountain Valley Moderate Landscape
Landscape BLNGWLH008 Neutral Grassland High Habitat
Visual BLNGWVS673 Cwm Tysswg Upland Grazing Moderate and Sensory Historic BLNGWHL027 Bedwellte Fieldscape Irregular Fieldscapes High Landscape
Cultural BLNGWCL228 Special Landscape Institutions Outstanding Landscape Area
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8.3 Whilst all LANDMAP Aspect areas have been considered, the main foci are on the Landscape Habitat, Visual and Sensory and Historical and Cultural Landscape LANDMAP Aspect Areas. An assessment of these and their relevance to the site are described below.
8.4 For the purposes of this report the Visual and Sensory areas which potentially fall within the visual envelope of the Proposed Development (identified from the ZTV) have been assessed. These are as follows:
. Cwm Tysswg BLNGWVS673 (host Visual and Sensory Aspect Area); . East of Rhymney CYNONVS716 Visual and Sensory Aspect Area (immediately west); . Mynydd Bedwellte BLNGWVS688 Visual Aspect Area (immediately north and east); . Parc Cwm Darran CYNONVS785 Visual and Sensory (immediately south); . Rhoslas CYNONVS361 Visual and Sensory Aspect Area (in the wider context of the Application Site – west); and . Gelligaer Common MRTHYRVS858 Visual and Sensory area (in the wider context of the Application Site – southwest).
8.5 LANDMAP provides the following descriptions of each of the identified Visual and Sensory Aspect Area as follows:
Cwm Tysswg (host Visual and Sensory Aspect Areas) 8.6 “Shallow south-west facing valley sides defined by field pattern, forming eastern half of small side valley connecting to Rhymney Valley. Only part of Blaenau Gwent where visual links to Rhymney Valley. Hidden from areas to east. Peaceful undisturbed character with continuity of farming - fields, scattered trees, contrasting with busy Rhymney Valley and open exposed ridges. Mix of hedges, fences, stone walls. One or two scattered small farms and other buildings.”
East of Rhymney 8.7 “Valley slopes ranging generally at about 300m rising to 470m north of A465 at edge of study area... mixture of rough grazing, bracken with scattered clumps of woodland... A strong upland character is created by views across valley and the areas within the aspect area particularly to the north... This is tempered by urban edge presence at base of valley side and the A465... Views similarly polarised into upland and urban... New AA created for A465 through northern part of area, making 2 separate polygons, at change detection.”
Mynydd Bedwellte 8.8 “Series of north-south high open rounded ridges forming 'backbones' of Blaenau Gwent... Consisting of Mynydd Bedwellte, Cefn Manmoel, Mynydd Carn-y-cefn, and Mynydd Coety... They are open, with mainly grass/heather moorland, with sheep, and no settlement... There are a few remnants of quarrying and tipping and associated disturbance in past... They provide sweeping skylines to both sides of most settled valleys, giving great contrast... Uncluttered, wild, unpeopled character contrast with/is antithesis of valleys giving strong sense of place... 360- degree long-distance views from tops, with valleys totally hidden, gives very important remote quality, appears to be just miles and miles of open country from the tops... None of the ridges have any road access apart from sections of minor, little-used roads along edges of the areas, well away from the highest points... There are a few places where fly-tipping, etc... near roads detract from close-up views...Also continuing bike activity. Recent washery above Cwm Big is local detractor.”
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Rhoslas 8.9 “2 separate areas, divided by A465, upland areas lying at approximately400mAOD of rough grassland, but strong underlying feel of industrial past... industrial remnants include old railway sidings/earthworks... views dominated by adjacent upland areas... overhead pylons are visual detractors, and A465 noise/movement impact... overall a discordant area with slightly unsettling air...Recent Ffos-y-fran development intrudes to west.”
Gelligaer Common 8.10 “As the western edge of Gelligaer Common the area has a bleak and open character very similar to Merthyr Common to the west...... The area is one of rounded summits above broad sweeps of grassland across the ridgelines which separate the U-shaped valleys below...... The vegetation is sparse - very well grazed areas of grass with soft rush in wetter patches...... There are many groups of ponies and sheep some of which appear to be in poor condition...... There is no settlement on the Common as farms are situated on the enclosed land below the ridges...... The enclosures along the edge of the Common are generally dry stone walls with some post and wire fences...... A few narrow roads and tracks cross the area and all have undefined and ragged edges...... Fly tipping is apparent in parts as is the clutter of old fences and signs which have not been cleared away...... There is a quarry at the south end but this is not generally visible in long views into the area. Unattractive views to Ffos-y-fran are recent change. Long views out across the Coalfield plateau contrast with the enclosed nature of the adjacent valleys...... There is some recreational use including walking, riding, paragliding and picnics...... The common is remote and exposed with a simple ground cover which contrasts with the more diverse vegetation in the valleys themselves...... ”
8.11 In addition, and in accordance with ‘LANDMAP Information Guidance Note 3’ (June 2010), plans have been prepared to show the following LANDMAP data with respect to the
8.12 ‘Visual and Sensory’ aspect layer (see Figures 5c to 5d):
. Question 46 - ‘Scenic Quality’; . Question 48 - ‘Character Evaluation’; and . Question 50 - ‘Overall Evaluation’.
Visual and Evaluation Supporting text sensory
Cwm Tysswg
46 Moderate Pleasant rural valley but not special or highly visible
48 High Clear sense of place, different from adjacent open moorland
50 Moderate Typical undeveloped side valley
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East of Rhymney
46 Moderate Some attractive views out to neighbouring upland , and slightly detractive views to urban areas in valley floor
48 Moderate Urban edge detracts from overall integrity
50 Moderate No single defining feature of regional importance to justify more than local importance... scenic quality and integrity both reduced by the presence of urban areas
Mynydd Bedwellte
46 High Highly visible areas both from nearby busy valleys and from far afield due to height
48 High Strong sense of place and specific character of series of similar ridges also beyond Blaenau Gwent
50 High Large areas of unspoilt open countryside, in close proximity to densely populated areas so great contrasts
Rhoslas
46 High Views of upland are extensive and scenic quality, although pylons detract from the quality from some viewpoints
48 Moderate No supporting text available.
50 Moderate partially degraded upland landscape with industrial debris and other visual detractors... potential to regenerate to natural type
Gelligaer Common
46 High The area has attractive panoramic views across the coalfield plateau including to the Brecon beacons to the north...
48 High It has consistent character throughout and a land cover of heather in places...
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50 High The area has attractive panoramic views across the coalfield plateau and has limited development- only one small quarry... It has consistent character throughout and a landcover of heather in places... The area does show signs on decline through poor wall condition and limited sward diversity in places plus tipping... The common is similar to other commons on plateau tops in the south Wales valleys...
8.13 LANDMAP Guidance Note 2 (2010) has been used to inform an understanding of how the Proposed Development may affect the various LANDMAP aspects. Paragraph 6.2.3 states “is advised that the Visual & Sensory overall evaluation is mapped, (Collector survey question 50) as well as the scenic quality and character evaluation criteria (Collector survey questions 46 and 48) to help identify aspect areas which may experience "likely significant effect". Attention should be focused on the outstanding, high and moderate aspect areas for further assessment. Aspect areas with an outstanding or high overall evaluation-score, or aspect areas with a moderate overall evaluation score but an outstanding or high evaluation in either scenic quality or character evaluation criteria, could be starting points for the assessment of significant effect.”
8.14 The overall evaluation for both the Mynydd Bedwellte and Gelligaer Common aspect areas is High (suggesting the potential for significant effects) whilst the remaining Visual and Sensory Aspect areas with Moderate scenic quality suggests that significant effects may be unlikely.
8.15 With regards to the Historic Landscape Aspect Area, the Application Site falls within the Bedwellte Fieldscape (BLNGWHL027). This Aspect Area has a High overall evaluation, the justification for which is the “well-preserved character of this upland fieldscape and the reasonably diverse scope of the archaeological resource with evidence of pre-industrial settlement, extensive industrial extractive activity and a post-medieval cemetery site.”
8.16 In respect of the Cultural landscape aspect layer, the Application Site falls within a Special Landscape Area (BLNGWCL228). In terms of its cultural identity, the Special Landscape Area is described as “a specific designation by Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council and cover large areas of mainly upland... They have been designated for their contribution to the Study Area's 'diversity and quality with their own features and distinctive sense of place'... Their cultural significance is derived from the continuity of landscape features and because the designation has now imbued them with other cultural qualities in that there are controls on certain aspects of development, there is protection to both features and the biodiversity and the Local Authority will act to 'resolve the conflict between agricultural, recreational, forestry and woodland interests'
Assessment of landscape character up to 2km from the Application Site
Landscape Scale 8.17 The landscape scale surrounding the Application Site is variable. In lower-lying areas towards the western edge of the Application Site the landscape scale is reduced as a result of intervening and rising landform towards Twyn Abertyswg, whilst the landscape scale increases slightly
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towards the eastern boundary of the Application Site and extensively towards the north and north eastern boundaries of the Application Site due to the result of ever increasing views towards the south and southwest in the direction of Abertysswg. In the wider context of the Application Site the landscape scale increases along ridgelines and plateau including Mynydd Bedwellte (southeast) and at Twyn Abertyswg (west). Towards the north, beyond the A465 and generally increases on the rising land to the north towards the Brecon Beacons where extensive views are available to the south. The landscape scale notably reduces within the Rhymney Valley (southwest) and the Sirhowy Valley (northeast) as a result of steep valley sides with frequent pocket of coniferous plantation. It is not considered that the landscape scale would change as a result of the Proposed Development.
Landform and Enclosure 8.18 The landform surrounding the east and west of the Application Site is characterised by both deep and shallow valleys broadly on a northwest-southeast alignment. To the north and beyond the A465 the topography ascends to an eventual height of over 500m AOD towards the southern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The sense of enclosure within the study area is heavily influenced by the topography. On the higher and more exposed land and ridgelines surrounding the site, the sense of enclosure decreases due to the absence of field boundary vegetation and intervening woodland. The sense of enclosure locally increases towards the southeast as a result of areas of coniferous plantation. In contrast, on the lower-lying ground and in the vicinity of settlements the sense of enclosure increases as a result of built form and increased woodland and hedgerow cover associated with smaller fields. As the Proposed Development would fit within the existing field boundaries, the landform and the enclosure would not change as a result of the Proposed Development.
Landscape Pattern and Complexity 8.19 The higher ground to the north, northeast and west of the Application Site comprises open common land largely void of hedgerows. Consequently, the landscape within these areas is not considered to be particularly complex. The lower-lying ground exhibits increased complexity levels due to the presence of vegetation associated with water courses, pockets of woodland and increased levels of enclosure frequently defined by field boundaries.
8.20 Localised increased levels of landscape complexity also occur around the peripheries of the smaller settlements and occasionally around farm complexes and private residences due to the presence of increased vegetation cover and due to a slightly more intricate field pattern. As the Proposed Development would fit within the existing field boundaries, the landscape pattern and complexity would not change as a result of the Proposed Development.
Settlement pattern 8.21 The larger settlements within the study area comprise Rhymney (west) and Tredegar (north). The smaller settlements of Abertysswg and Pontlottyn are located to the south and to the southwest respectively. Ebbw Vale lies to the northeast. The settlement pattern generally respects the surrounding landform being contained within the valleys to the northeast and west The remaining settlement pattern comprises scattered and occasionally nucleated private individual residences and isolated farm complexes. There would be no change in the settlement pattern as a result of the Proposed Development.
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Existing built infrastructure and human influence 8.22 With exception of the settlement pattern, the most prominent human influences in the study area comprise pockets of industry along the A465 corridor. These include the Tafarnaubach Industrial Estate (north of the A465) and the Rassau Industrial Estate on the northern edge of Tredegar. A railway line extends on a broadly south easterly alignment from Rhymney which exerts some human influence at a local level.
8.23 Pockets of existing on-shore renewable energy infrastructure (wind turbines) are located towards the northwest and southeast of the study area. These introduce vertical elements and movement into the landscape exerting a degree of human influence in some views from the higher ground.
8.24 Human influence is also evident in water retention infrastructure in the form of reservoirs of various sizes on the higher ground to the north of the A465.
8.25 Telegraph poles and associated power cables frequently traverse the landscape in the study area.
8.26 It is considered that there would be a marginal increase in perceived built infrastructure/human influence as a result of the Proposed Development. However as a result of this increase would generally be confined to the valley containing the Proposed Development.
Skylines 8.27 Skylines to the north of the Application Site show the gently rising land in the direction of Tredegar, largely absent of vegetation, but with localised individual trees and telegraph poles and overhead power lines.
8.28 Towards the east the skylines comprise the ridgeline associated with the ascending land in the direction of Carn Stipa.
8.29 Skylines towards the southwest of the Application Site comprise the higher ground to the southeast of Fochriw and Pontlottyn and are largely absent of vegetation and landscape features. To the west of the Application Site on-site trees and pioneer vegetation break the skylines in short-range views. The Proposed Development is low-lying and consequently would not break the skyline in the majority of views.
Inter-visibility 8.30 In the lower-lying areas immediately surrounding the Application Site, inter-visibility is heavily influenced by the levels of enclosure provided by the higher ground to the north, east and west. To the southwest some inter-visibility to the higher ground to the south is afforded and of some properties on the eastern flank of Abertysswg.
Tranquillity 8.31 The Application Site is located within a rural, agricultural landscape. Consequently tranquillity levels are considered to be high, with the exception of the occasional movement of agricultural machinery. Tranquillity levels reduce towards the populated areas in the wider vicinity of the Application Site as a result of increased traffic levels and ambient noise from with domestic properties. Tranquillity levels are also reduced in the vicinity of the heavily trafficked A465 corridor to the north as a result of fast moving vehicles and pockets of industry. It is not considered that the tranquillity levels would change as a result of the Proposed Development.
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Summary 8.32 In summary the landscape surrounding the Application Site can be described as:
. The presence of both deep and shallow valleys broadly on a northwest-southeast alignment; . The landscape is predominantly agricultural with pockets of linear settlement confined to the northwest-southeast aligned valleys. Isolated and sometimes nucleated farm complexes and private residences are scattered throughout the study area; . Enclosure levels vary and are heavily influenced by the surrounding topography and vegetation levels; . With the exception of the settlement pattern, human influence is confined to the surrounding highway network (particularly to the north), coniferous forestry plantation, clusters of existing on-shore renewable energy infrastructure (wind turbines) and the presence of numerous pockets of industry along the A465 corridor and to the edge of Rhymney;
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9 Assessment of Landscape Character
9.1 Cwm Tysswg Visual and Sensory Aspect Area (BLNGWVS673)
Sensitivity The scale of the Cwm Tysswg Visual and Sensory Aspect Area is modest extending just beyond the Application Site to the north, south and east. LANDMAP’s overall classification in Visual and Sensory terms as Moderate. Its overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be Medium.
Magnitude The proposals would result in the conversion of the majority of the host Aspect Area from undeveloped, side valley, grassland to renewable energy infrastructure. Consequently, the Magnitude of Change would be High.
Effect With a Medium sensitivity and a High Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Major effect on the Cwm Tyswg Visual and Sensory Aspect Area.
9.2 East of Rhymney Visual and Sensory Aspect Area (CYNONVS716)
Sensitivity This aspect area covers the geographical area from the A465 in the north to the northern settlement edge of Abertysswg in the south and adjoins the Application site along the western boundary. Whilst there are “some attractive views out to neighbouring upland” which would include the site land, it is noted that “scenic quality and integrity are both reduced by the presence of urban areas”. The East of Rhymney Aspect Area is considered to be of Medium value and susceptibility as it has been provided with a “Moderate” evaluation in the Landmap Assessment. The overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be Medium.
Magnitude The proposals would result in the conversion of upland grassland to renewable energy infrastructure, beyond the boundary although visible form parts of the Aspect Area. The proposals would result in a modest and localised effect on the East of Rhymney Aspect Area as shown in Figure 6 (ZTV). The proposed development would generally result in a Low Magnitude of Change for the East of Rhymney Aspect Area.
Effect With a Medium sensitivity and a Low Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Minor effect on the East of Rhymney Visual and Sensory Aspect Area.
9.3 Mynydd Bedwellte Visual and Sensory Aspect Area (BLNGWVS688)
Sensitivity The scale of the Mynydd Bedwellte Visual and Sensory Aspect Area is large, adjoining the sites eastern boundaries, extending to Rhymney Hill in the north and the uplands above New Tredegar in the south. LANDMAP’s overall classification in Visual and Sensory terms as High due to “highly visible areas” and a “strong sense of place and specific character of a series of
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similar ridges also beyond Blaenau Gwent”. Its overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be High.
Magnitude The proposals would result in the conversion of upland grassland within the valley floor, to renewable energy infrastructure, beyond the Aspect Area boundary although visible form parts of it. The scale of the proposals would result in a sizeable and yet localised effect on the central and northern extents of Mynydd Bedwellte Aspect Area as shown in Figure 6 (ZTV). The proposed development would generally result in a High Magnitude of Change for the Mynydd Bedwellte Aspect Area.
Effect With a High sensitivity and a High Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Substantial effect on the Mynydd Bedwellte Visual and Sensory Aspect Area.
9.4 Rhoslas Visual and Sensory Aspect Area (CYNONVS361)
Sensitivity This aspect area covers the geographical area from the A465 in the north to the northern settlement edge of Fochriw in the south. Whilst “views of upland are extensive and scenic quality” which would include distant views of the site land, it is noted that this aspect area is “partially degraded upland landscape with industrial debris and other visual detractors”. The Rhoslas Aspect Area is considered to be of Medium value and susceptibility as it has been provided with a “Moderate” evaluation in the Landmap Assessment. The overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be Medium.
Magnitude The proposals would result in the conversion of upland grassland to renewable energy infrastructure, beyond the boundary although visible, at distance, form central and southern parts of the Aspect Area. The proposals would result in a modest and localised effect on the Rhoslas Aspect Area as shown in Figure 6 (ZTV). The proposed development would generally result in a Low Magnitude of Change for the Rhoslas Aspect Area.
Effect With a Medium sensitivity and a Low Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Minor effect on the Rhoslas Visual and Sensory Aspect Area.
9.5 Gelligaer Common Visual and Sensory Aspect Area (MRTHRVS858)
Sensitivity The scale of the Gelligaer Visual and Sensory Aspect Area is modest, covering a narrow yet extensive geographical area extending from the southern edge of Fochriw in the north to Bargoed in the south. This aspect area is within the Caerphilly Special Landscape Area (Gelligaer Common) and affords panoramic views, at elevation, across the coalfield plateau. LANDMAP’s overall classification in Visual and Sensory terms as High. Its overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be High.
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Magnitude The proposals would form a barely discernible component, at distance, form northern parts of the Aspect Area as shown in Figure 6 (ZTV). The proposed development would generally result in a Negligible Magnitude of Change for the Gelligaer Aspect Area.
Effect With a High sensitivity and a Negligible Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Minor effect on the Gelligaer Visual and Sensory Aspect Area.
9.6 Habitat Aspect Area (BLNGWLH008 – Neutral Grassland)
Sensitivity The Habitat Aspect Area is classified as “Neutral Grassland” in the Level 3 Landmap assessment which covers all of the Application site. LANDMAP’s overall evaluation in Habitat terms is High. Its overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be High.
Magnitude The land use of the Application Site would change from one of agriculture to one of renewable energy development comprising photovoltaic panels and permeable gravel tracks. However, the layout has been designed to avoid higher value grassland habitats, with the arrays primarily located on semi-improved grassland and species-poor rush pasture. The majority of the existing farmland would be retained beneath the arrays and areas of pasture could continue to be grazed. The proposed development would generally result in a Negligible Magnitude of Change Habitat Aspect Area.
Effect With a High sensitivity and a Negligible Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Minor effect on the Habitat Aspect Area.
9.7 Bedwellte Fieldscape Historic Aspect Area (BLNGWHL027)
Sensitivity The Bedwellte Fieldscape Aspect Area covers all of the Application site. LANDMAP’s overall evaluation in Historic terms is High due to “the well-preserved character of this upland fieldscape and the reasonably diverse scope of the archaeological resource”. Consequently, its overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be High.
Magnitude The proposals would result in the conversion of upland grassland fields to renewable energy infrastructure, introducing a broad swathe of technological land use however the use would be confined to the valley containing the Proposed Development and would cover only a proportion of the western extent of the aspect area, as shown in Figure 6 (ZTV). The Proposed Development would fit within the existing field boundaries. Consequently, the landscape pattern and complexity would not change as a result of the Proposed Development. The Application Site topography would remain largely unchanged except at a local level where remodelling may be required for site access roads, internal access tracks, and localised regrading to create level platforms. The arrays will be sited to follow the contours of the site and the proposal is fully reversible. The Magnitude of Change is therefore considered to be Medium.
Effect
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With a High sensitivity and a Medium Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Major effect on the Historic Aspect Area.
9.8 Cultural Landscape aspect layer (BLNGWCL228 – Special Landscape Area).
Sensitivity The Special Landscape Area, Aspect Area covers all of the Application site. The Special Landscape Area extends from Rhymney Hill in the north to the uplands above New Tredegar in the south.
LANDMAP’s overall evaluation in Cultural terms is “Outstanding” due it being “a defined area of landscape with specific designation”. Consequently, its overall sensitivity is therefore considered to be High.
Magnitude The proposed development is low-lying, following the contours of the valley floor and would therefore not prevent extensive, open views towards the Rhymney valley. The proposals would result in the conversion of upland grassland fields to photovoltaic infrastructure, introducing a technological land use to a large proportion of the Cwm Tysswg landscape type within the Special Landscape Area, whose primary landscape qualities and features include “secluded farmland, undisturbed by industrialisation and pleasant views into Rhymney valley”. The Magnitude of Change is therefore considered to be High.
Effect With a High sensitivity and a High Magnitude of Change, the Proposed Development would have a Substantial effect on the Cwm Tysswg Visual and Sensory Aspect Area
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10 Effect on Visual Amenity
10.1 The ZTV and Viewpoint Location Plan are provided in Figure 6.
10.2 The ZTV shows that the most prominent areas of potential visibility of the Proposed Development occur in areas to the northwest and south at distances between approximately 2 and 2.5km from the Application Site. The ZTV also indicates that fragmented areas of potential visibility of the Proposed Development from beyond approximately 2.5km from the north eastern facing slopes of the Rhymney Valley. Further pockets of potential visibility are located on the higher ground to the south east of Merthyr Tydfil (on the western extremities of the study area) and to the north of the A465 on the western edge of the Rassau Industrial Estate (on the northern extremities of the study area).
Baseline Visual Receptors 10.3 The ZTV indicates that the Proposed Development would not generally be visible from beyond approximately 0.5km to the east of the Application as a result of rising landform. To the west visibility diminishes beyond approximately 0.5km as a result of rising landform and then visibility increases again at approximately 2.5km on the higher ground to the south of Rhymney. To the north visibility of the Proposed Development diminishes from beyond approximately 2.5km due to the rising landform to the south of the A465.
10.4 The ZTV indicates that the Proposed Development would not be visible from the larger, lower- lying settlements of Tredegar and Rhymney as a result of intervening landform. Views of the Proposed Development may be afforded from private residences towards the eastern edge of Abertysswg.
10.5 Fieldwork has established that the greatest effect on visual amenity is likely to be from within the valley containing the Proposed Development. It is not considered that the Proposed Development would be visible from areas to the north of the Application Site as a result of intervening topography, whilst views towards the Proposed Development through the lower-lying valleys to the southwest would diminish with increasing distance. Where views towards the Application Site are available the Proposed Development would partially be obscured by the intervening higher landform or would appear as a very small component in the wider composite view.
Residential Properties 10.6 The closest residential properties are identified as:
. Waun-Tysswg Farm (within the redline boundary of the Application Site); . The Mountain Ash Inn (approximately 0.08km east); . Celland Ddu Farm behind the Mountain Ash Inn (approximately 0.1km east); . Cefn-Golau Cottage (approximately 0.35km north) . Residential properties at the far eastern edge of Greensway, Arthur Street, Barkley Street and Charles Street at Abertysswg (closest 0.2km southwest); . Cwm-Tysswg (approximately 0.3km west);
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. Private residences at the junction of Charles Street and B4256 (approximately 0.5km northeast); . Individual private residences along Attlee Way and Gainsborough Road, Tredegar (approximately 0.6km north); and . Individual private residences aligning to the south from Tan-Y-Bryn, Rhymney (approximately 1.1km west).
Waun-Tysswg Farm complex 10.7 Views towards the Proposed Development are partially contained from the private residence within the Waun-Tysswg Farm complex as a result of agricultural buildings immediately to the north and to the west. However views of the solar panels on the lower-lying land would be afforded towards the southwest.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of high value, susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: Although the Proposed Development would be low-lying and would not break the skyline, the Magnitude of Change is considered to be high as the solar farm would form a notable element in comparison to the baseline view.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a High Magnitude of Change, the effect would be Substantial.
Mountain Ash Inn 10.8 The Mountain Ash Inn to the east of the Application Site to the eastern edge of Charles Street and to the southeast of Waun-Tysswg Farm is located on slightly higher ground. Views towards the Application Site are direct, open and exposed and consequently the majority of the Proposed Development would be visible from this residence.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties/areas of leisure are generally considered to be of high value, susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: Although the Proposed Development would be low-lying and would not break the skyline, the Magnitude of Change is considered to be High as the solar farm would form a notable element in the view.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a High Magnitude of Change, the effect would be Substantial.
Celland Ddu Farm, Charles Street 10.9 Views towards the Application Site are heavily contained by a short but established deciduous tree line. Consequently, it is not considered that the Proposed Development would generally be visible, however during the winter, with the absence of foliage on these trees, filtered and distant views of the western edge of the Proposed Development may be available.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of High value, Susceptibility and overall Sensitivity.
Magnitude: The Magnitude of change is considered to be Negligible as the Proposed Development would not generally be visible.
. Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Negligible Magnitude of Change, the effect would be Minor.
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Cefn Golau Cottage 10.10 This private residence, situated the higher ground to the north is constructed on a northeast- southwest alignment and is therefore orientated away from the Application Site. Consequently views towards the Application Site are oblique.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of High value, Susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: The Magnitude of Change is considered to be Low from this private residence as views of the Proposed Development would be oblique and generally contain the rising land towards Twyn Abertyswg (southwest) and towards Carn Stwpa (southeast). The solar panels would be orientated towards the south on falling topography, as a component within a wider panoramic view.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Low Magnitude of Change, there would be a Moderate effect with the Proposed Development in place.
Residential properties on the far eastern edge of Greensway, Arthur Street, Barkley Street and Charles Street, Abertysswg 10.11 Private residences on Greensway, Arthur Street, Barkley Street and Charles Street are on a northeast-southwest alignment with their main aspect facing towards the southeast. Consequently, it is not considered that the occupants’ primary focus would be towards the Application Site. The rising land directly to the north of the private residences also prohibits mid- range views towards the Application Site from the majority of these properties. Where views towards the Application Site are afforded they are likely to be from rear and north eastern facing windows.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of High value, Susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: The Magnitude of Change is considered to be Minor from these private residences as they face south, away from the Proposed Development, and, where views are available they would be oblique.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Low Magnitude of Change, there would be a Moderate effect with the Proposed Development in place.
Cwm-Tysswg 10.12 Although the primary aspect of the inhabited buildings at Cwm-Tysswg faces south and towards the Application Site, this private residence benefits from the combination of established deciduous tree cover and agricultural buildings to its southern edge. Consequently, views towards the Application Site are generally heavily contained. However, such views may reduce during the winter months as a result of the absence of tree foliage.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of High value, Susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: The Magnitude of Change is considered to be Minor from this private residence as the Proposed Development would generally be screened by tree cover. However, some oblique views of the northern edge of the Proposed Development may be available.
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Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Low Magnitude of Change, there would be a Moderate effect with the Proposed Development in place.
Private residences at the junction of Charles Street and B4256 10.13 A slight rise in landform and fragmented areas of tree cover prevent views towards the Application Site from these private residences.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of High value, Susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: The Magnitude of Change is considered to be Negligible from these private residences as the Proposed Development is unlikely to be visible.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Negligible Magnitude of Change, there would be a Minor effect with the Proposed Development in place according to the assessment criteria. However, in reality, it is considered that the effect would be Negligible.
Private residences along Attlee Way and Gainsborough Road, Tredegar 10.14 Rising landform to the south prohibits views towards the Application Site.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of High value, Susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: The Magnitude of Change is considered to be Negligible from these private residences as the Proposed Development is unlikely to be visible.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Negligible Magnitude of Change, there would be a Minor effect with the Proposed Development in place according to the assessment criteria. However, in reality, it is considered that the effect would be Negligible.
Individual private residences aligning to the south on Tan-Y-Bryn, Rhymney 10.15 Rising landform to the southeast prohibits views towards the Application Site.
Sensitivity: Views from residential properties are generally considered to be of High value, Susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: The Magnitude of Change is considered to be Negligible from these private residences as the Proposed Development is unlikely to be visible.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a Negligible Magnitude of Change, there would be a Minor effect with the Proposed Development in place according to the assessment criteria. However, in reality, it is considered that the effect would be Negligible.
Public Highways 10.16 The Application Site is located within the surroundings of the following public highways:
. Charles Street is (located beyond the Application Site’s eastern boundary); . The B4256 adjoining the north and western boundary of the application;
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. The B4257 and the A469 (approximate respective distances of 2.1km and 2.6km to the northwest): and . The A465 (located approximately 3.3km to the northwest) of the Application Site.
Charles Street 10.17 Views from the short section Charles Street to the south are heavily contained by the screening effect of intervening coniferous woodland. Consequently, views of the Application Site are prohibited. Enclosure levels decrease as receptors using Charles Street emerge from the coniferous woodland onto Access Land, where views towards the west become increasingly open and exposed allowing for views towards the Application Site.
Sensitivity: Views from public highways are considered to be of Medium value and of Medium susceptibility due to the visual enclosure provided by vegetation limiting views across the adjacent landscape. The overall sensitivity is considered to be Medium.
Magnitude: For the surrounding highway network the Magnitude of Change as a result of the Proposed Development is assessed as Medium.
Effect: Sections of Charles Street and the unnamed road to the southeast of the Application site, would undergo a Major effect on visual amenity as a result of the Proposed Development. The remaining highways surrounding the site would undergo a Low to Negligible effect on visual amenity as a result of the Proposed Development.
Public Rights of Way (PRoW) 10.18 The Proposed Development is located within the surroundings of the following public rights of way (PROW):
. Restricted byway 339/24/1(passing through the Waun-Tysswg Farm complex towards the western edge of the Application Site); . Rhymney FP66 and Rhymney FP68 (footpaths) – aligning to the southwest from Charles Street approximately 0.2km and 0.5km to the southeast of the Application Site respectively; . Rhymney FP64 (footpath) – aligning to the south from the B4256 approximately 0.4km to the west of the Application Site; . Rhymney BR50 and Rhymney BR53 (footpaths) – aligning to the west from Heathcock approximately 0.5km to the northwest of the Application Site. . Bedwellty RBW16 (restricted byway) – aligning to the southeast and broadly parallel to the unnamed road at the foot of Mynydd Bedwellte approximately 0.6km to the southeast of the Application Site; . Rhymney RBW61 (restricted byway) – extending broadly to the southwest, then to the northwest from Station Road, Abertysswg approximately 0.7km to the southwest of the Application Site. . Rhymney FP66 and Rhymney FP68 (footpaths) – aligning to the southwest from Charles Street approximately 0.2km and 0.5km to the southeast of the Application Site respectively;
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. Rhymney FP64 (footpath) – aligning to the south from the B4256 approximately 0.4km to the west of the Application Site; . Rhymney BR50 and Rhymney BR53 (footpaths) – aligning to the west from Heathcock approximately 0.5km to the northwest of the Application Site. . Bedwellty RBW16 (restricted byway) – aligning to the southeast and broadly parallel to the unnamed road at the foot of Mynydd Bedwellte approximately 0.6km to the southeast of the Application Site; and . Rhymney RBW61 (restricted byway) – extending broadly to the southwest, then to the northwest from Station Road, Abertysswg approximately 0.7km to the southwest of the Application Site.
On-site PRoW Sensitivity: Public rights of way (PRoW) are representative of the views experienced by walkers, local residents and tourists and are considered to be of high value, susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: The sections of restricted byway 339/24/1which align towards the Application Site would undergo a High Magnitude of Change as direct views of the Proposed Development would visible at close-range.
Effect: With a High sensitivity and a High Magnitude of Change, there would be a Substantial effect on visual amenity for restricted byway 339/24/1.
Surrounding PRoW 10.19 PRoW 399/8/1, FP64, the Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk have been selected as representative viewpoints and are assessed in section 10.33.
Recreation 10.20 The proposals are located within the surroundings of the following areas of recreation:
. Tredegar and Rhymney Golf Club (approximately 0.4km west of the Application Site); . Coed y Rhyd plantation (approximately 1.6km northeast of the Application Site); . Tyla-du Plantation (approximately 2.6km southwest of the Application Site); and . Parc Bryn Bach (approximately 2.5km to the north of the Application Site)
10.21 Recreational areas are representative of the views experienced by walkers, local residents and tourists and are considered to be of High value, susceptibility and overall sensitivity.
Magnitude: There would be No Effect from Coed y Rhyd plantation, Tyla-du Plantation and Parc Bryn Bach with the Proposed Development in place due to a combination of intervening trees, vegetation and landform. Fieldwork has established that the Proposed Development would not be visible from the Tredegar and Rhymney Golf Clubhouse as a due to the orientation of the building itself (away from the Application Site) and the intervening buildings immediately to the east. The majority of the Proposed Development would not generally be visible from the “playing areas” as a result of intervening landform, resulting in No Effect, however there may be localised areas of visibility of the Proposed Development from the golf course’s far eastern edge resulting in a Minor Magnitude of Change.
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Effect: There would be No Effect as a result of the Proposed Development from the surrounding recreational areas with the exception of localised areas of Tredegar and Rhymney Golf course which with a High sensitivity and a Minor Magnitude of Change would undergo a Moderate effect on visual amenity according to the assessment criteria. In reality, however it is considered that this effect would be Minor.
Landscape Designations 10.22 The ZTV confirms that the Proposed Development does not fall within the visual envelope of any statutory landscape designations. The Brecon Beacons National Park falls outside the study area.
Selection of Representative Viewpoints 10.23 The ZTV for the Proposed Development was used to guide the selection of representative viewpoints for the visual assessment. The selected viewpoints are not intended to cover every possible view, but rather are representative of a range of receptor types e.g. residents, horse riders, walkers, cyclists and road users from various directions and distances from the Application Site boundary.
10.24 A visual assessment from the representative viewpoints was carried out in October 2016 to determine how the Proposed Development might influence the visual amenity for these typical receptors. The assessment was carried out as part of the site survey, with the photographic assessment recording the character of the view and the existing visibility of the Application Site. The viewpoint photographs and detailed visual assessment are provided in Appendix 2.
Visual Assessment (Construction Phase) 10.25 The duration of the construction phase for the Proposed Development would be short approximately 16 weeks. Levels of activity would increase from those associated with the existing agricultural activities on the Application Site and would include the movement of construction vehicles, storage of materials and the sequential construction of solar arrays and maintenance tracks.
10.26 Oblique close-range views of the construction activities would be afforded from restricted byway 339/24/1 (within the redline boundary of the Application Site).
10.27 Direct close views of construction activities would be available from the Wauntysswg Farm complex, and direct mid-range views of construction activities would be available from Mountain Ash Inn. Oblique mid-range views would be afforded of some of the construction activities from some of the private residences along Greensway, Arthur Street, Barkley Street and Charles Street at Abertysswg.
10.28 For receptors using restricted byway 339/24/1the value of the view is high as although there are some elements of human influence in the view it forms part of the SLA. The susceptibility to changes of the type proposed is High as the Proposed Development introduces a new element into the view. The overall sensitivity is therefore assessed as High.
10.29 The Magnitude of Change is assessed as High for the duration of the construction phase as short-range views of the construction activities would be obtained (albeit those views being oblique). This would result in an overall Substantial effect.
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Visual Assessment (Post- construction)
Distant Views (2km+ from the Application Site) 10.30 There are four representative Viewpoints located more than 2km from the Application Site – VPs 8, 9, 11 and 12. Viewpoints 8, 11 and 12 would undergo a Minor Effect as a result of the Proposed Development and Viewpoint 9 is assessed as undergoing a Major Effect as a result of the Proposed Development.
Medium Range Views (500m to 2km from the Application Site) 10.31 There are two medium range representative Viewpoints – VP 5 and 10. Viewpoint 5 would undergo a Major Visual Effect and Viewpoint 10 is assessed as undergoing a Minor effect on visual amenity as a result of the Proposed Development.
Short-range Views (less than 500m from the Application Site). 10.32 Of the six representative short-range Viewpoints (VPs):
. VP1 would undergo Moderate Visual Effects at Years 1 and 5; . VP2 would undergo Major Visual Effects at Years 1 and 5; . VP3 would undergo Substantial Visual Effects at Years 1 and 5; . VP4 would undergo Substantial Visual Effects at Years 1 and 5; . VP6 would undergo Substantial Visual Effects, at Years 1 and 5; and . VP7 would undergo Substantial Visual Effects at Years 1 and 5.
10.33 The summary of the anticipated effects on visual receptors and representative viewpoints are shown in Table 3:
Table 3. Summary of Effects on Visual Receptors and Representative Viewpoints
Visual Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Magnitude Effect Receptor/ Representative Viewpoint Residential Properties Waunt- Medium High High Low Moderate Tyswwg Farm complex Mountain Ash High High High High Substantial Inn Cottages to High High High Negligible Minor the east of the Mountain Ash Inn Private High High High High Substantial residence to the northeast of Cholera Cemetery
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Visual Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Magnitude Effect Receptor/ Representative Viewpoint Cwm-Tysswg High High High Medium Major Residences on High High High Medium Moderate Greensway, Abertysswg Public Highways Charles Street Medium Medium Medium Medium Moderate B4256 Medium Medium Medium Medium Moderate Public Rights of Way Restricted High High High Low Moderate byway 339/24/1 (passing through Waunt-Tysswg Farm) Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) Iwent Cholera High High High Medium Major Cemetery Representative Viewpoints Viewpoint 1 Medium High High Low Moderate Restricted byway 339/24/1 (passing through Waunt-Tysswg Farm) Viewpoint 2 High Medium High Medium Major Charles Street beyond the eastern boundary of the Application Site Viewpoint 3 High High High High Substantial View from unnamed road/junction of public footpath 339/8/1 to the southwest of Twyn yr Hyddod
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Visual Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Magnitude Effect Receptor/ Representative Viewpoint Viewpoint 4 High Medium High High Substantial Charles Street
Viewpoint 5 High High High Medium Major View from Iynwent Cholera Cemetery (SAM) Viewpoint 6 High High High High Substantial public footpath Rhymney FP64 to the southwest of Cwm-Tysswg Viewpoint 7 High High High High Substantial public footpath Rhymney FP64 south of Tredegar and Rhymney Gold Club Viewpoint 8 Medium High High Negligible Minor Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk to the north of Fochriw Viewpoint 9 High High High Medium Major Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk to the south of Pontlottyn Viewpoint 10 Medium High High Low Moderate Edge of High Street, Rhymney (A469) to the north of Troedrhiwfuch Farm. Viewpoint 11 High High High Negligible Minor Access Land to the east of
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Visual Value Susceptibility Sensitivity Magnitude Effect Receptor/ Representative Viewpoint Pentwyn and to the north of Gelli-gaer Common Viewpoint 12 High High High Negligible Minor* Triangulation Station at Pen Garnbugail to the north of Gelli-gaer Common *indicates a minor effect in accordance with the methodology in Appendix 1, however in reality No Effect.
Night-time Visual Effects 10.34 It is not anticipated that the Proposed Development would be illuminated at night.
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11 Cumulative Effects
11.1 This section sets out the potential cumulative effects which may arise as a result of the Proposed Development.
11.2 A cumulative assessment considers the cumulative effects of multiple schemes upon the landscape fabric, landscape character and visual amenity.
11.3 It is acknowledged that wherever more than one development is visible at any given location in the landscape, there will be a greater overall or cumulative effect on landscape character than if just one development was visible in the landscape. Likewise it is acknowledged that the more developments that are constructed in any given landscape, the greater the magnitude will be of overall (or combined) change to the landscape character that was present prior to the introduction of the development.
11.4 However, it is also noted that in any given landscape where development of this type are already present the combined effect on landscape character of introducing further development may not be as significant as the initial introduction of the initial development due to a diminished affect caused by the existence of development within the baseline. Furthermore, the greater the amount of development in the baseline landscape the less significant the addition may be of further development on landscape character, as the landscape will be more heavily characterised by development in the baseline situation.
11.5 Whilst there are no existing or consented photovoltaic developments within the 5km study area, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council have requested a cumulative assessment that considers other renewable energy infrastructure within the 5km study area, including operational, consented and in-planning schemes. This assessment does not include schemes that are at pre-planning or scoping stage as the scheme details are not
11.6 The study area for the cumulative assessment has been agreed with the local authority.
11.7 Cumulative schemes included in the assessment were derived from the Online Wind Turbine Database for South East Wales. Cumulative schemes included in the assessment are set out in tables 4, 5 and 6, below.
Table 4: operational schemes within the 5km study area include:
Origin Point and Approx. Description Location distance from Application Site 1. Unit 29 Tafaranaubach 3.7km Single turbine, 74m blade tip height at 470.009m Industrial Estate, Tredegar AOD
2. Penrhiwgwaith Farm, Holly 2.7km Single turbine, 87m blade tip height at 532.940m Bush, Blackwood AOD
3. Cruglwyn, Off Manmoel 2.8km Single turbine, 86m blade tip height at 515.655m Road, Blackwood AOD
4. Gelli-wen Farm, Bedwellty 3.7km Single turbine, 77m blade tip height at 468.156m Road, Markham AOD
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5. Cefn Bach Farm, Bargoed. 4km Single turbine, 78m blade tip height at 460.334m AOD
6 a-c. Pen Bryn Oer, Merthyr 2-2.5km Three turbines, 100m blade tip height at Road, Rhymney 523.492m AOD, 528.433m AOD and 537.689m AOD respectively.
7a-b. Eurocaps Ltd, Crown 3.7km Two turbines, 45m blade tip height at 398.968m Business Park,Tredegar AOD and 395.032m AOD.
Locations of Operational Turbines sourced using http://www.blaenau- gwent.gov.uk/en/resident/planning/supplementary-planning-guidance/wind-turbine-mapping and Google Earth.
Table 5: consented but not constructed schemes within the 5km study area include:
Origin Point and Approx. Description Location Distance from Application Site 1. Bedlywm Farm, New 2km Single turbine, 86m blade tip height Tredegar
2. Pen-yr-heol Farm, Holly 2.6km Single turbine, 77m blade tip height Bush, Blackwood
Locations of turbines sourced using http://www.blaenau gwent.gov.uk/en/resident/planning/supplementary-planning-guidance/wind-turbine-mapping and Google Earth.
Table 6: in-planning schemes within the 5km study area include:
Origin Point and Approx. Description Location Distance from Application Site 1. Cruglwyn, Manmoel Road, 2.6km Single turbine, 86m blade tip height Blackwood
2. Silent Valley Waste 4.8km Single turbine, 103m blade tip height Services, Cwm, Ebbw Vale
Locations of turbines sourced using http://www.blaenau gwent.gov.uk/en/resident/planning/supplementary-planning-guidance/wind-turbine-mapping and Google Earth.
11.8 The locations of operational, consented but not constructed and in-planning turbines are illustrated on Figure 19 ‘Cumulative Assessment Wind Turbines’, contained within the appendices.
11.9 There are 10 operational wind turbines in the study area and a further 4 turbines which are either consented but not yet constructed or in-planning.
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11.10 It is useful to note that the Heads of the Valleys Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Study, for smaller scale wind turbine development2, subdivides a study area covering the northern parts of five local authority areas into a series of Landscape Units against which judgements are made regarding the sensitivity and the capacity of the landscape to accommodate wind turbine development.
11.11 The Proposed Development would be located within Landscape Unit 18 ‘Mynydd Bedwellte and associated upland’.
11.12 Landscape Unit 18 is defined as having a “low sensitivity to micro and small turbine development due to the large-scale upland landscape with few visual receptors”. Guidance on the siting of turbines in Landscape Unit 18 requires “visual separation between turbines/small groups of turbines”.
11.13 Cumulative ZTV (CZTV) Figures 20-27, presented in Appendix 2 show the theoretical cumulative visibility of the operational turbines within the study area and the proposed development.
11.14 Given the anticipated clustering of consented but not constructed and in-planning turbines, around operational turbines, as shown in Figure 19, separate CZTV figures have not been produced.
11.15 Hafod y Dafal, however a 14MW solar farm, centred on NGR SO19930, 04313 is located approximately 5.9km to the southeast of the Application Site.
11.16 An additional cumulative ZTV, Figure 28 is presented in Appendix 2 illustrating the theoretical cumulative visibility of the Hafod y Dafal solar farm and the proposed development.
11.17 The CZTV’s take account for the screening effects of existing significant vegetation blocks (modelled at 12m) and built form (modelled at 9m), uses an assumed observer height of 1.5m and a 3m height for the photovoltaic panels. Landform data was taken from OS Terrain 5 mapping, using point data across the Application Site.
11.18 In order to assist with understanding the visual effects of the proposed development, a series of visualisations have been prepared. The visualisations superimpose a computer-generated model of the project onto a photograph of the existing view. Objects within the view were surveyed and these were built into the model. These were rendered at the same time as the panels and used to scale and position the renders against the photographs. Field boundaries based on LIDAR survey data were also used.
11.19 Via email with both BGCBC and CBC, viewpoints 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 & 11 have been selected for visualisation.
2 Heads of the Valleys Smaller Scale Wind Turbine Development Landscape Sensitivity and Capacity Study Final Report. Gillespies 2015.
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Cumulative Landscape Effects 11.20 Operational turbines are present towards the northwest and southeast of the study area.
11.21 The combined CZTV (Figure 20) indicates that operational turbines are theoretically visible across a greater extent of the landscape than the Proposed Development. The extent to which the Proposed development and operational turbines are theoretically visible in combination, is largely confined to the valley containing the Proposed development and from the broad upland ridges of Cefn y Brithdir and Gelli-Gaer Common, to the west and south-west of the Application site.
11.22 The operational turbines introduce vertical elements and movement into the landscape, exerting a degree of human influence in some views from the higher ground. The general topography of the area and existing screening features in the landscape do not make it possible for all of the turbines to be viewed collectively from the Application site. Whilst a number of the operational turbines, located 3.5-4km from the Application site, would form a barely discernible component at distance within this large-scale upland landscape, the blades of the three turbines at Pen Bryn Oer, located approximately 2km from the Application Site appear as a larger component within views closer to the site and might draw attention to static solar arrays, in the valley floor.
11.23 The Proposed Development would result in the conversion of upland grassland fields to photovoltaic infrastructure, introducing a technological land use. However, the new use would be confined to the valley containing the Proposed Development. The Proposed Development would follow the contours and fit within the existing field boundaries. Consequently, the landscape pattern, complexity and topography would not change as a result of the Proposed Development.
11.24 In close range views, the presence of wind turbine and solar development in combination would be heightened by the other in a combined cumulative effect and would change the local landscape character of the upland plateau which is largely unspoilt, with few detractors.
11.25 Figure 19 illustrates the clustering of consented but not constructed and in-planning turbines, around operational turbines to the northwest and southeast of the study area. It is anticipated that there will be no increased cumulative effects resulting from the addition of these turbines due to a diminished affect caused by the existence of groups of turbines within the baseline situation.
11.26 It should be noted that the decommissioning of the Proposed Development would result in the reversal of the cumulative effects associated with the operation of the proposed development i.e the landscape and visual effects of the proposed arrays on landscape character would cease following removal.
Cumulative Visual Effects 11.27 Visually the potential cumulative effects are identified as being:
. Combined visibility – where one or more of the Application Sites are visible from a fixed receptor viewpoint in the same field or arc of view without moving the head (i.e within 90 degrees); . Successive visibility – where one or more of the Application Sites are visible from a fixed receptor viewpoint but where the observer needs to turn around to view the different development (actual and visualised); and
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. Sequential visibility - where one or more of the Application Sites are not visible from a single fixed receptor location but could be viewed when an observer moves along a linear route such as a public highway or public right of way.
11.28 Table 7. Shows a summary of the potential cumulative effects of the Proposed Development in combination with the operational wind turbines sites from the representative Viewpoints (VPs) 1-12.
Table 7. Summary of the potential cumulative effects of the Proposed Development in combination with wind turbine sites within the 5km study area. VP Distance from Potential Potential Potential number Application Site Combined successive sequential Visibility visibility visibility 1 Application Site No No Yes boundary
2 100m Yes No Yes 3 0.5km Yes No Yes 4 0.2km No Yes No 5 0.7km No Yes No 6 0.2km No Yes No 7 0.3km No Yes No 8 2.6km No No No 9 2.2km Yes Yes Yes 10 1.7km No Yes No 11 3.8km No No No 12 4.3km No No No
11.29 Of the 12 representative Viewpoints, 8 would potentially undergo cumulative visual effects.
11.30 Viewpoint 1: Walkers heading north on this PRoW, could potentially obtain views of both the proposed development and the operational turbines at Pen Bryn Oer sequentially. However it is possible that views would be available of the blades of the turbines and that these would be oblique and potentially prohibited by the intervening topography.
11.31 Viewpoint 2: Road Users will obtain views of both the proposed development and the operational turbines at Pen Bryn Oer in combination and sequentially, when visibility is good, as they move along Charles Street. Although the alignment of Charles Street affords only oblique and transient views of the turbines, at Pen Bryn Oer, on the horizon when travelling north, the broad vista of solar panels might draw the observers view towards the right and towards the location of the turbines, thereby establishing a visual link between the panels and the turbines. In combination they would change the character of the view. The presence of each development would be heightened by the other in a combined cumulative effect, however the proposed development is reversible.
11.32 Viewpoint 3: Road Users will obtain views of both the proposed development and the operational turbines at Pen Bryn Oer in combination and sequentially, when visibility is good, as
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they move along the unnamed road. In combination they would change the character of the view. The presence of each development would be heightened by the other in a combined cumulative effect, however the proposed development is reversible
11.33 Viewpoint 4: The CZTV indicates that views of the constructed, single turbine at Cefn Bach Farm located 4.8km from the viewpoint. In reality, the turbine forms a barely discernible component in the wider panoramic view and the proposed solar development appears on low lying farmland in mid-range views so no cumulative effect is predicted. The CZTV’s show that operational turbines at Pen Bryn Oer and Crown Business Park are theoretically visible from this viewpoint, however the principle direction of interest for users of the public highway is south and the turbines would be located behind the viewer, so no cumulative effect is predicted from this angle. It is predicted that there will be no cumulative effect with consented and in planning turbines.
11.34 Viewpoint 5: The blades of the constructed, single, turbine at Cefn Bach Farm located approximately 4.8km from the viewpoint, do appear on the horizon. Although views to south, containing the application site are funnelled by the valley towards the turbine, it is barely discernible from this point and appears in combination with the radio mast on the horizon at Cefn y Brithdir . The solar panels would be visible on low lying ground in mid-range views as a minor component within the larger panoramic view, so no cumulative effect is predicted.
The CZTV’s show that visitors to the Cholera Cemetery could obtain successive views to the operational turbines at Pen Bryn Oer. The presence of each development would be heightened by the other in a successive cumulative effect.
It is predicted that there will be no cumulative impact with the consented and in planning turbines illustrated in Figure 19.
11.35 Viewpoint 6: The blades of the constructed, single, turbine at Cefn Bach Farm located approximately 4.8km from the viewpoint, may appear on the horizon when visibility is good. The solar panels would be visible on low lying agricultural land in mid-range views. Although views to east and south east, containing the application site are funnelled by the valley towards the turbine it is barely discernible so no cumulative effect is predicted.
The Cumulative ZTVs show that views to the operational turbines at Pen Bryn Oer, may be available from this viewpoint however it is anticipated that rising ground to the north will prohibit views of the turbines from this angle however sequential effects may be available to walkers heading north on the PRoW.
It is predicted that there will be no cumulative impact with the consented and in planning turbines illustrated in Figure 19
11.36 Viewpoint 7: Although the PRoW aligns those walking south with the single turbine at Cefn Bach Farm, the intervening topography and vegetation prevent views of the turbine.
The Cumulative ZTV Figure 2 shows that views to the operational turbine at Penrhiwgwaith Farm, may be available from this viewpoint however from this angle, the turbine is screened by the intervening topography and is not apparent. The Cumulative ZTV Figure 4 shows that there is unlikely to be a view towards to the operational turbine, located further south Gelli-wen.
Two further turbines are consented but are not currently operational within the same valley but due to the intervening topography are unlikely to be discernible from this angle.
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Users of this section of the PRoW could obtain successive visibility of the proposed development and the operational turbines at Pen Bryn Oer, from this viewpoint when travelling north. It is anticipated that the blades of the turbines would be visible and the presence of each development would be heightened by the other in a successive cumulative effect
It is predicted that there will be no cumulative impact with consented and in planning turbines illustrated in Figure 19.
11.37 Viewpoint 8: Walkers approaching from the north would first experience the three operational turbines at Cefn Bach Farm which are visible on the horizon. From this angle, the viewers eye is drawn further south by the settlement of Rhymney in the middle ground and the street lighting associated with Fochriw Road in the foreground round to the operational turbines at Penrhiwgwaith Farm and Gelli-wen which appear on the horizon. A small part of the northern portion of the Proposed Development would be visible however it would form a barely discernible component, at distance, within the wider panoramic view and would not break the skyline.
Two further turbines are consented but are not currently operational within ½ km of the operational turbine at Penrhiwgwaith Farm. Should they be realised, it is predicted that the turbines would be visible and read together with the turbine a Gelli-wen as one cluster, on the horizon. Turbines to the north and south of the proposed development would be seen in succession from this viewpoint.
The proposed development would form a barely discernible component in a wider panoramic view, from this angle and it is predicted that there will be no cumulative impact with operational, consented and in planning turbines illustrated in Figure 19.
11.38 Viewpoint 9: Walkers approaching from the north would first experience the broad expansive ridgeline defining the horizon on which three operational turbines at Cefn Bach Farm are visible. From this angle, the viewer’s eye is drawn into the valley by the white roofs of the industrial buildings on Wellington Way, Rhymney and then further south by the settlements of Rhymney and Abertysswg. In the middle ground, blocks of coniferous plantation and deciduous woodland, drawn the viewers’ attention round to the operational turbines at Penrhiwgwaith Farm and Gelli- wen which appear on the horizon. Two further turbines are consented but are not currently operational within 0.5km of the operational turbine at Penrhiwgwaith Farm. Should they be realised, it is predicted that the turbines would be visible and read together with the turbine at Gelli-wen as one cluster, on the horizon. Turbines to the north and south of the proposed development can be seen in succession from this viewpoint.
Part of the western edge of the Proposed Development would be concealed by the intervening landform immediate to the west and southwest of the Application Site. However, the remainder of the Proposed Development would be visible from this angle, contiguous with the blocks of coniferous plantation and deciduous woodland, appearing centrally between the operational turbines currently on the horizon, although the proposed development itself, would not break the skyline. Energy development would stretch along the valley side with a large separation between developments.
Consequently, the proposed development and the turbines would be seen in succession from this viewpoint and their effects correspondingly reduced particularly given the scale of the proposed development in this expansive landscape and presence of valley settlements which set the scale of the proposal in proportion.
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11.39 Viewpoint 10: The CZTV indicates potential shared visibility between the proposal and the constructed, turbines at Pen Bryn Oer, located approximately 4km from the viewpoint. Figure 37 confirms that the blades do appear on the horizon when visibility is good. However, they are barely discernible from this point and views to the proposed solar development are oblique and distant. Consequently, no cumulative effect is predicted.
The CZTV further indicates potential shared visibility between the proposal and the constructed, turbines at Gelli-wen and Penrhiwgwaith Farm however, from this angle, the principal direction of interest for users of the public highway is north, and the turbines are located behind the viewer so no cumulative effect is predicted.
It is predicted that there will be no cumulative impact with the consented and in planning turbines illustrated in Figure 19.
11.40 Viewpoint 11: The CZTV indicates potential shared visibility between the proposal and the constructed, turbines at Tarfaranaubach Industrial Estate, Penrhiwgwaith Farm, Cruglwyn, Gelli- wen Farm, Cefn Bach Farm and Pen Bryn Oer. Figure 38 confirms that the turbines do appear in distant views, when visibility is good, however they are barely discernible from this point and views to the proposed solar development are distant and obscured by the intervening ridgeline of Cefn y Brithdir. Consequently, no cumulative effect is predicted.
It is therefore predicted that there will be no cumulative impact with the consented and in planning turbines illustrated in Figure 13.
11.41 Viewpoint 12: The CZTV indicates potential shared visibility between the proposal and the constructed, turbines at Tarfaranaubach Industrial Estate, Penrhiwgwaith Farm, Cruglwyn, Gelli- wen Farm, Cefn Bach Farm and Pen Bryn Oer. Viewpoint photography confirms that the turbines do appear in distant views towards the horizon, when visibility is good however the proposed solar development is obscured by intervening higher topography. Consequently, no cumulative effect is predicted.
It is predicted that there will be no cumulative impact with the consented and in planning turbines illustrated in Figure 19.
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12 Summary and Conclusion
12.1 This Landscape and Visual Appraisal of Landscape Effects relates to the construction of a Solar Photovoltaic Park and associated infrastructure on approximately 58 ha of farmland adjacent to Waun-Tysswg Farm, Abertysswg, Rhymney, South Wales.
12.2 It is acknowledged that any development will give rise to change in the landscape character of the Application Site and to the views of people overlooking, visiting or walking through the area. The extent of change will influence the judgement on acceptability and will need to be weighed against the benefits delivered by the Proposed Development.
12.3 The Application Site does not form part of any statutory designation. However, it is located within the Mynydd Bedwellty, Rhymney Hill & Sirhowy Sides Special Landscape Area (SLA); a non- statutory landscape designation covering some 715 ha of Blaenau Gwent County Borough (‘BGCB’). It should be noted that virtually all of rural (outside of settlement boundaries) BGCB is designated SLA. It is considered, therefore, that the site lies in a landscape, as a land resource, of relative abundance and availability.
12.4 The intrinsic qualities of the SLA confirm that the Application Site is located in a landscape that has a high sensitivity to change.
12.5 From published assessments and RPS’ assessment, the key features of the Application and its environs be summarised as:
. The presence of both deep and shallow valleys broadly on a northwest-southeast alignment; . The landscape is predominantly agricultural with pockets of linear settlement confined to the northwest-southeast aligned valleys. Isolated and sometimes nucleated farm complexes and private residences are scattered throughout the study area; . Enclosure levels vary and are heavily influenced by the surrounding topography and vegetation levels; . With the exception of the settlement pattern, human influence is confined to the surrounding highway network (particularly to the north), coniferous forestry plantation, clusters of existing on-shore renewable energy infrastructure (wind turbines) and the presence of numerous pockets of industry along the A465 corridor and to the edge of Rhymney.
12.6 The land use of the Application Site would change from one of agriculture to one of renewable energy development comprising photovoltaic panels, inverters, a substation, 15 m lattice tower and permeable gravel tracks.
12.7 The layout has been designed to avoid higher value grassland habitats, with the arrays primarily located on semi-improved grassland and species-poor rush pasture. Much of the existing farmland would be retained beneath the arrays and areas of pasture could continue to be grazed.
12.8 The combination of the retention of most of the existing trees and grassland vegetation, together with the creation of new areas of acid grassland, would result in a longer-term benefit for both the Application Site and the surrounding landscape.
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12.9 The Proposed Development would fit within and respect the existing field boundaries. The arrays would follow the contours of Application Site respecting the topography of the site which would remain largely unchanged except at a local level where remodelling may be required for site access roads, internal access tracks, and localised regrading to create level platforms. Consequently, the landscape pattern and complexity would not change as a result of the Proposed Development.
12.10 Analysis of the LANDMAP Aspect Areas reveal that any potential adverse effects on landscape character within these areas is likely to be very localised. Analysis of LANDMAP confirms that the Cwm Tysswg Visual and Sensory Aspect Area, containing the Application site, is of a lower order in terms of the hierarchy of landscape evaluation.
12.11 The primary landscape qualities of the Aspect Areas are maintained and respected.
12.12 Of the twelve representative Viewpoints, seven local views would undergo Substantial or Major effects on visual amenity as a result of the Proposed Development at Year 1, with one undergoing Moderate effects and with the remaining Viewpoints undergoing either a Minor or Negligible as a result of the Proposed Development.
12.13 The value of local views is considered to be high as the Application site is within the locally designated SLA. With the exception of occasional overhead power lines and clusters of turbine development, often visible at distance in good visibility, there are few detractors. Due to the scale of the Proposed Development, much of the lower-lying agricultural land would be converted to photovoltaic infrastructure, changing the character of the host landscape for the 30-year life of the project.
12.14 It would not be possible to screen it entirely from receptors close to the Application Site. The lower-lying ground (containing the Application Site) is largely devoid of defining field boundary vegetation. It is therefore considered that landscape mitigation measures including extensive tree and hedge planting to screen the proposals would be uncharacteristic of the upland fieldscape and the introduction of these patterns of vegetation would be inappropriate to address any residual effects arising from the Proposed Development
12.15 However, the proposed solar arrays will be low-lying in close range views, hugging the valley floor thus preserving the open nature of the sensitive, historic landscape. The distinctive open skyline with panoramic views to other ridges is maintained as are open views from the minor unnamed road along the Mynydd Bedwellty ridge, cited in the SLA designation as the only example in Blaenau Gwent.
12.16 The limited inter-visibility with the lower-lying local valley settlements, which arises from the topography and landscape components including established blocks and belts of woodland limits effects on visual amenity from the surrounding area. Whilst the site boundary is partly within Caerphilly County Borough (CCB) and some of the site will, in theory, be visible from CCB, although actual visibility is confined to localised short distance views. The southern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park boundary is located approximately 4 km to the north of the application site at its closest point.
12.17 The site benefits from a high level of visual containment created by the surrounding landscape. Longer range views demonstrate that the Proposed Development will have either no effect or a negligible effect on landscape character and will be viewed by few receptors from upland locations to the south west of the site, where successive and sequential views of turbines development are already available.
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12.18 There are few receptors within this secluded upland valley.
12.19 Consequently, there are a very limited number of visual receptors that would undergo the highest effects. These are limited to those in the immediate vicinity of the Application Site, namely residents living in nucleated farm complexes and private residences scattered throughout the study area, walkers using the PRoWs and access land and road users. The proposal would appear as a prominent new element within local views but not to such an extent that it prevents receptors enjoying views to the expansive landscape setting in which the proposal would be seen.
12.20 In the long term, the decommissioning of the Proposed Development would result in the reversal of the effects associated with the operation of the proposed development i.e the landscape and visual effects of the proposed arrays on landscape character and views would cease following removal.
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Appendix 1 Detailed Assessment Methodology
APPRAISAL OF LANDSCAPE EFFECTS METHODOLOGY 12.21 This Appraisal of Landscape Effect has been undertaken with reference to best practice, as outlined in the following published guidance:
. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (3rd Edition) - Landscape Institute/ Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (2013); . GLVIA3 Statement of Clarification 1/13; . Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland - (2002) Countryside Agency / Scottish Natural Heritage; and . Photography and photomontage in landscape and visual assessment (2011) - Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/11.
12.22 GLVIA3 states within paragraph 1.1 that “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 the landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity.”1 12.23 GLVIA3 also states within paragraph 1.17 that when identifying landscape and visual effects there is a “need for an approach that is in proportion to the scale of the project that is being assessed and the nature of the likely effects. Judgement needs to be exercised at all stages in terms of the scale of investigation that is appropriate and proportional.”2
12.24 GLVIA3 recognises within paragraph 2.23 that “professional judgement is a very important part of LVIA. While there is some scope for quantitative measurement of some relatively objective matters much of the assessment must rely on qualitative judgements”3 undertaken by a landscape consultant or a Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI).
12.25 The effects on cultural heritage and ecology are not considered within this report.
Study Area 12.26 The study area for the report was taken to be a 5km radius from the site. However, the main focus of the assessment was taken as a radius of 2km from the site as it 1 Para 1.1, Page 4, GLVIA, 3rd Edition 2 Para 1.17, Page 9, GLVIA, 3rd Edition 3 Para 2.23, Page 21, GLVIA, 3rd Edition 2 is considered that beyond this distance, even with good visibility, the proposals would not generally be perceptible in the landscape.
Effects Assessed 12.27 Landscape and visual effects are assessed through professional judgements on the sensitivity of landscape elements, landscape character, visual receptors and representative viewpoints combined with the predicted magnitude of change arising from the proposals.
12.28 The landscape and visual effects have been assessed in the following sections:
. Effects on landscape elements; . Effects on landscape character; and
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. Effects on visual amenity.
1 Para.1.1,Page 4, GLVIA, 3rd Edition 2 Para.1.17, Page 9, GLVIA , 3rd Edition 3 Para 2.23, Page 21, GLVIA, 3rd Edition
12.29 Sensitivity is defined in GLVIA3 as “a term applied to specific receptors, combining judgments of susceptibility of the receptor to a specific type of change or development proposed and the value related to that receptor.” 4 12.30 Various factors in relation to the susceptibility and value of landscape elements, landscape character, visual receptors or representative viewpoints are considered below and are cross referenced to determine the overall sensitivity as shown in Table 1:
Table1. Overall sensitivity of landscape and visual receptors VALUE
HIGH MEDIUM LOW HIGH High High Medium MEDIUM High Medium Medium LOW Medium Medium Low SUSCEPTIBILITY
12.31 Magnitude of change is defined in GLVIA3 as “a term that combines judgements about the size and scale of the effect, the extent over which it occurs, whether it is reversible or irreversible and whether it is short or long term in duration.”5 Various factors contribute to the magnitude of change on landscape elements, landscape character, visual receptors and representative viewpoints.
12.32 The sensitivity of the landscape and visual receptor and the magnitude of change resulting from the Proposed Development are cross referenced in Table 1 to determine the degree of landscape and visual effects.
______4 Glossary, Page 158, GLVIA, 3rd Edition 5 Glossary, Page 158, GLVIA, 3rd Edition
EFFECTS ON LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS 12.33 The effects on landscape elements are limited to the site and include the direct physical change to the fabric of the land, such as the removal of woodland, hedgerows or grassland to allow for the proposed development.
Sensitivity of Landscape Elements 12.34 Sensitivity is determined by a combination of the value that is attached to a landscape element and the susceptibility of the landscape element to changes that would arise as a result of the proposed development – see pages 88-90 of GLVIA3. Both value and susceptibility are assessed as high, medium or low.
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12.35 The criteria for assessing the value of landscape elements and landscape character is shown in Table 2:
Table 2, Criteria for assessing landscape value HIGH Designated areas at an International, National or Local scale (including but not limited to World Heritage Sites, National Parks, AONBs, SLAs, etc.) considered to be an important component of the country’s character experienced by a high number of people. Landscape condition is good and components are generally maintained to a high standard. In terms of seclusion, enclosure by land use, traffic and movement, light pollution and presence/absence of major infrastructure, the landscape has an elevated level of tranquillity. Rare or distinctive landscape elements and features are key components that contribute to the landscape character of the area.
MEDIUM No formal designation but (typically) rural landscapes, important to the setting of towns and villages and also considered to be a distinctive component of the national or local landscape character experienced by a large proportion of its population. Landscape condition is fair and components are generally well maintained. In terms of seclusion, enclosure by land use, traffic and movement, light pollution and presence/absence of major infrastructure, the landscape has a moderate level of tranquillity. ] Rare or distinctive landscape elements and features are notable components that contribute to the character of the area.
LOW No formal designations but a landscape of local relevance (including but not limited to public or semi-public open spaces, village greens of allotments) and also green infrastructure and open spaces within residential areas likely to be visited and valued by the local community. Landscape condition may be poor and components poorly maintained or damaged. In terms of seclusion, enclosure by land use, traffic and movement, light pollution and presence/absence of major infrastructure, the landscape has limited levels of tranquillity. Rare or distinctive elements and features are not notable components that contribute to the landscape character of the area.
12.36 The criteria for assessing the susceptibility of landscape elements and landscape character is shown in Table 3:
Table 3, Criteria for assessing landscape value HIGH Scale of enclosure – landscapes with a low capacity to accommodate the type of development being proposed owing to the interactions of topography, vegetation cover, built form, etc. Nature of land use – landscapes with no or little existing reference or context to the type of development being proposed. Nature of existing elements – landscapes with components that are not easily replaced or substituted (e.g. ancient woodland, mature trees, historic parkland, etc.). Nature of existing features – landscapes where detracting features, major infrastructure or industry is not present or where present has a limited influence on landscape character.
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MEDIUM Scale of enclosure – landscapes with a medium capacity to accommodate the type of development being proposed owing to the interactions of topography, vegetation cover, built form, etc. Nature of land use – landscapes with some existing reference or context to the type of development being proposed. Nature of existing elements – landscapes with components that are easily replaced or substituted. Nature of existing features – landscapes where detracting features, major infrastructure or industry is present and has a noticeable influence on landscape character.
LOW Scale of enclosure – landscapes with a high capacity to accommodate the type of development being proposed owing to the interactions of topography, vegetation cover, built form, etc. Nature of land use – landscapes with extensive existing reference or context to the type of development being proposed. Nature of existing features – landscapes where detracting features or major infrastructure is present and has a dominating influence on the landscape.
12.37 Various factors in relation to the susceptibility and value of landscape elements are assessed and cross referenced to determine the overall sensitivity as shown in Table 1.
Magnitude of Change on Landscape Elements 12.38 Professional judgement has been used to determine the magnitude of change on individual landscape elements within the site as shown in Table 4:
Table 4, Criteria for assessing magnitude of change for landscape elements HIGH Total loss of a landscape element. MEDIUM Partial loss or alteration to part of a landscape element. LOW Minor loss or alteration to part of a landscape element. NEGLIGIBLE No loss or very limited alteration to part of a landscape element.
EFFECTS ON LANDSCAPE CHARACTER 12.39 Landscape character is defined as the “distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one landscape different from another, rather than better or worse.”6 The assessment of effects on landscape character considers how the introduction of new landscape elements physically alters the landform, landcover, landscape pattern and perceptual attributes of the site or how visibility of the Proposed Development changes the way in which the landscape character is perceived.
______6 Glossary, Page 157, GLVIA, 3rd Edition
Sensitivity of Landscape Character 12.40 Sensitivity is determined by a combination of the value that is attached to a landscape and the susceptibility of the landscape to changes that would arise as a result of the proposed
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development – see pages 88-90 of GLVIA3. Both value and susceptibility are assessed as high, medium or low.
12.41 The criteria for assessing landscape character value are shown in Table 2.
12.42 The criteria for assessing landscape character susceptibility are shown in Table 3.
12.43 The overall sensitivity of landscape character is determined through cross referencing the value and susceptibility of landscape character as shown in Table 1.
Magnitude of Change on Landscape Character 12.44 Professional judgement has been used to determine the magnitude change on landscape character as shown in Table 5:
Table 5. Criteria for magnitude of change for landscape character HIGH Introduction of major elements into the landscape or some major change to the scale, landform, land cover or pattern of the landscape.
MEDIUM Introduction of some notable elements into the landscape or some notable change to the scale, landform, landcover or pattern of the landscape.
LOW Introduction of minor new elements into the landscape or some minor change to the scale, landform, landcover or pattern of the landscape.
NEGLIGIBLE No notable or appreciable introduction of new elements into the landscape or change to the scale, landform, landcover or pattern of the landscape
EFFECTS ON VISUAL AMENITY 12.45 The effects on visual amenity consider the changes in views arising from the proposed development in relation to visual receptors including settlements, 18/09/2015 | A.0292 Page |7 residential properties, transport routes, recreational facilities and attractions; and on representative viewpoints or specific locations within the study area as agreed with the Local Planning Authority. Sensitivity of Visual Receptors
12.46 Sensitivity is determined by a combination of the value that is attached to a view and the susceptibility of the receptor to changes in that view that would arise as a result of the proposed development – see pages 113-114 of GLVIA3. Both value and susceptibility are assessed as high, medium or low.
12.47 The value attached to a view includes a recognition of value through landscape designations, indicators of value attached to views by visitors such as the inclusion on maps or reference within guidebooks, provision of facilities, presence of interpretation boards, etc.
12.48 The criteria for assessing visual susceptibility is shown in Table 6:
Table 6. Criteria for assessing visual susceptibility HIGH Includes occupiers of residential properties and people engaged in recreational activities in the countryside such as using public rights of way.
MEDIUM Includes people engaged in outdoor sporting activities and people travelling through the landscape on minor roads and trains.
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LOW Includes people at place of work e.g. industrial and commercial premises and people travelling through the landscape on A roads and motorways.
Magnitude of Change on Visual Amenity 12.49 Professional judgement has been used to determine the magnitude change on landscape character as shown in Table 7:
Table 7. Criteria for magnitude of change for visual receptors HIGH Major change in the view that has a defining influence on the overall view with many visual receptors affected.
MEDIUM Some change in the view that is clearly visible and forms an important but not defining element in the view.
LOW Some change in the view that is not prominent with few visual receptors affected. NEGLIGIBLE No notable change in the view.
DEGREE OF EFFECT FOR LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL RECEPTORS 12.50 The degree of effects is professional judgements based upon all the factors in terms of landscape and visual sensitivity and the magnitude of change arising from the proposed development. The cross referencing of landscape and visual sensitivity and the magnitude of change determines the overall degree of effects as shown in Table 8:
Table 8. Degree of landscape and visual effects Magnitude of Change HIGH MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE
HIGH Substantial Major Moderate Minor MEDIUM Major Moderate Minor Negligible LOW Moderate Minor Negligible Negligible Sensitivity
NATURE OF EFFECTS 12.51 GLVIA3 includes an entry that states “effects can be described as positive or negative (or in some cases neutral) in their consequences for views and visual amenity.” GLVIA3 does not, however, state how negative or positive effects should be assessed and therefore becomes a matter of subjective judgement rather than reasoned criteria. Due to inconsistencies with the assessment of negative or positive effects a precautionary approach is applied to this ALVE that assumes all landscape and visual effects are considered to be negative or adverse unless otherwise stated.
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Appendix 2: Document Figures
Reference Title Figure 1 Site location plan Figure 2 Site layout plan Figure 3 Landscape Designations Figure 4 Historic Designations Figure 5a Landmap Geological Landscape Aspect Area – Level 3 Figure 5b Landmap Habitats Aspect Area – level 3 Figure 5c Landmap Visual & Sensory Aspect Area - level 3 Figure 5d Landmap Visual & Sensory Aspect Overall Figure 5e Landmap Historic Landscape Aspect Area - level 3 Figure 5f Landmap Historic Landscape Aspect Overall Figure 5g Landmap Cultural Landscape Aspect Area – level 3 Figure 6 ZTV & Viewpoint Locations Figure 7 - 18 Photo Viewpoints 1 – 12 Figure 19 Cumulative Assessment Wind Turbines Figure 20 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbines Figure 21 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbine at Location 1, Unit 29 Tafaranaubach Industrial Estate Figure 22 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbine at Location 2, Penrhiwgwaith Farm Figure 22 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbine at Location 3, Cruglwyn Figure 24 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbine at Location 4, Gelli-wen Farm Figure 25 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbine at Location 5, Cefn Bach Farm Figure 26 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbine at Location 6, Pen Bryn Oer Figure 27 Cumulative ZTV of the proposed development with operational turbine at Location 7, Crown Business Park Figure 28 Cumulative ZTV Operational Solar Park Figure 29 - 38 Artists Impressions, Viewpoint Locations 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 & 11.
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©2016RPS Group N otes 1. This drawing1. ha been s prepared accordain ncewith the scope of RPS’sappointment with itsclient and subis jecttheto terms and conditionsthaof appointment. t RPS accepts liabno ilityanyfor use thisof ± docum entother tha by n itsclient and onlythe for purposeswhich for it waprepared s and provided. 2. If received If 2. electronica llytheitis recipients responsibility toprint correctsca Only le. written dim ensionsshould be used. Legend
SiteLoca tion
Rev Description Date Initial Checked
ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T: +44(0)2920 668 662 E: rpsca E: @rpsgroup.com 662668+44(0)2920 622668+44(0)2920T: F:
Client ELGINEN ERGYEsCO LTD
Project W AUN TYSSW GFARM PV
Title SITELOCATION PLAN
Status DrawnBy PM/CheckedBy PLAN N ING GG MG JobRef Sca le@ A3 DateCrea ted JPW 0888 1:10,000 JAN18
DrawingNum b er Rev JPW0888-LV-010 - FIGURE 1 0 250 500 m rpsgroup.com/uk
O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW xx\JPW 08 WAUN 0888- TYSSW GFARM, ABERTYSSW G(DWDrawings\1. )\4. RPS Drawings\MXD\JPW 0888-LV-010_D180130_(SiteLoca tionPlan)(Figure 1).mxd c 2016 RPS Group
HT Tension wires Notes Timber Post 1. This drawing has been prepared in accordance with the scope of RPS’s appointment with its client and is subject to the terms and conditions of that Tensioner appointment. RPS accepts no liability for any use of this document other than by its client and only for the purposes for which it was prepared and provided. 2. If received electronically it is the recipients responsibility to print to correct scale. Tension Spring Only written dimensions should be used.
LEGEND
SITE BOUNDARY
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3.5m ACCESS TRACK C I T C SITE COMPOUND, CAR PARKING AND TURNING AREA I INVERTER SUBSTATION SITE ACCESS POINT 5m STANDOFF FROM WATERCOURSE / HEDGE
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I I Addition of Compound car parking & turning area 01-07-18 GG AL
C C H Additional track and layout change 06-02-18 GG AL G Addition of Lattice tower and PROW 29-11-17 GG AL F Addition of panels 16-11-17 GG AL TYPICAL INVERTOR SUBSTATION ABB PYS800-MWS SHOWN E Removal of panels to the south 31-10-17 GG AL D Relocation of Sub Station 15-06-17 GG AL DIMENSIONS: 7m x 2.5m x 3m HIGH. ALL SUBJECT TO FINAL DESIGN C Amended red line, cable route and road access 30-03-17 GG AL B Amended Layout with updated topo 21-02-17 GG AL A Revised layout 30-01-17 GG AL
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Park House, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AF T: +44(0)2920668662 E: [email protected] F: +44(0)2920 668622
Client ELGIN ENERGY EsCo
Project WAUNTYSSWG PV N 2 PANEL IN PORTRAIT ORIENTATION DUE SOUTH MODULE SOLAR ANGLE OF 16° 1.65-1.95m ORIENTATION
SOLAR ANGLE OF 15° Title SITE LAYOUT PLAN
1.65-1.95m 25.0° 2.4m-3m
Status Drawn By PM/Checked by 0.8m Min. PLANNING GG AL
GROUND SLOPE VARIES POST EMBEDMENT TBC (CIRCA 1.5m) Job Ref Scale @ A0 Date Created 2m-6m JPW0622 1:2000 MARCH 2016
Drawing Number Rev JPW0622-WAU-002 I
Figure 2 rpsgroup.com/uk © Crown copyright, All rights reserved. 2017 License number 0100031673 ©2016RPS Group Notes 1. This 1. drawing ha sbeen prepared accordain ncewith the scope of RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and conditionsthaof appointment. t RPS accepts liabilityno anyfor use thisof ± documentother tha by n its client and onlythe for purposes whichfor it wa sprepared and provided. 2. If received If 2. electronica llyitisthe recipients responsibility toprint correctsca Only le. written dimensions should be used. Legend SiteLoca tion 5kmBuffer fromSite SpecialLandsca peArea (Bla enauGwent) V isua llyImportant Loca Landsca l pe(Caerphilly LDP) SpecialLandsca peArea (Caerphilly LDP) Parksand Ga rdens ConservationArea s HistoricLandsca pes NationalPark AONB
Rev Description Date Initial Checked
ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T: +44(0)2920 668 662 E: rpsca E: 662668 @rpsgroup.com+44(0)2920 T: 622668+44(0)2920 F:
Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LTD
Project WAU NTYSSWGFARM PV
Title LANDSCAPEDESIGNATIONS
Status DrawnBy PM /CheckedBy PLANNING GG MG JobRef Sca le@ A3 DateCrea ted JPW0888 1:40,000 M AR18
DrawingNumber Rev JPW0888-LV-001 - FIGURE 3 0 1,000 2,000 m rpsgroup.com/uk
O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW08 xx\JPW0888 WAU - NTY SSWGFARM ABERTY , SSWG(DW)\4.Drawings\1. RPS Drawings\M XD\JPW0888-LV-001_D171201_(Landsca peDesignations)(Figure 3).mxd ©2016RPS Group %9 Notes 1. This 1. drawing ha sbeen prepared accordain ncewith the scope of RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and conditionsthaof appointment. t RPS accepts liabilityno anyfor use thisof ± documentother tha by n its client and onlythe for purposes whichfor it %9%9 %9 wa sprepared and provided. %9 received If 2. electronica llyitisthe recipients responsibility toprint correctsca Only le. written dimensions should be used. %9 Legend %9 SirhowyIronworks,Site of %9 ListedBuildings %9 ScheduleAncient Monuments SiteLoca tion %9%9 5kmBuffer fromSite %9 %9 %9 %9 %9%9 %9 %9 %9 RhymneyUpper Furnace %9%9%9 %9 %9%9 %9%9 %9 %9%9 %9 %9 %9 %9 %9%9 %9 %9 %9 %9%9%9%9 %9 %9 %9 %9%9 %9 %9 %9 %9 TredegaIronworks Cholera r Cemetery %9%9 %9%9%9%9 %9 YDomen Fawr round ca irn
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InclineHaula geWinding Engine, Mynydd Bedwellty
GelligaerCommon Round Cairns ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T: +44(0)2920 668 662 E: rpsca E: 662668 @rpsgroup.com+44(0)2920 T: 622668+44(0)2920 F: GelligaerCommon Round Cairns %9%9 %9 Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LTD GelligaerCommon Round Cairns Project ThreePla tformHouses Cefnon Brithdir WAU NTYSSWGFARM PV GelligaerCommon Roma Road n %9 %9 Title HISTORICDESIGNATIONS
%9 Status DrawnBy PM /CheckedBy PLANNING GG MG Pla tformHouses Easton Side Gelligaerof Common %9 JobRef Sca le@ A3 DateCrea ted JPW0888 1:40,000 JAN18 SiteTegernacusof Stone %9 DrawingNumber Rev JPW0888-LV-011 - %9 FIGURE 4 0 850 1,700 m rpsgroup.com/uk
O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW08 xx\JPW0888 WAU - NTY SSWGFARM ABERTY , SSWG(DW)\4.Drawings\1. RPS Drawings\M XD\JPW0888-LV-011_D180130_(HistoricDesignations)(Figure 4).mxd ©2016RPS Group Notes 1. This 1. drawing ha sbeen prepared accordain ncewith the scope of RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and conditionsthaof appointment. t RPS accepts liabilityno anyfor use thisof ± documentother tha by n its client and onlythe for purposes whichfor it wa sprepared and provided. 2. If received If 2. electronica llyitisthe recipients responsibility toprint correctsca Only le. written dimensions should be used. Legend
SiteLoca tion 5kmBuffer fromSite LANDMAP Geological Landscape Aspect Activeupla strea ndriver or mcha nnelsystem Dolinesink or field, pavements, dryva lleys,etc Gla cialmountain va lley Other Techtonica llycontrolled valley U pla ndgorge U pla ndpla tea u
U pla ndvalley slope
Rev Description Date Initial Checked
ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T: +44(0)2920 668 662 E: rpsca E: 662668 @rpsgroup.com+44(0)2920 T: 622668+44(0)2920 F:
Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LTD
Project WAU NTYSSWGFARM PV
Title LANDMGEOLOGICAL AP: LANDSCAPE ASPECTAREA CLASSIFICATION LEVEL - 3
Status DrawnBy PM /CheckedBy PLANNING GG MG JobRef Sca le@ A3 DateCrea ted JPW0888 1:40,000 M AR18
DrawingNumber Rev JPW0888-LV-002 - FIGURE 5a 0 1,000 2,000 m rpsgroup.com/uk ContainsOS da ta©Crown Copyright and da taba seright 2017 O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW08 xx\JPW0888 WAU - NTY SSWGFARM ABERTY , SSWG(DW)\4.Drawings\1. RPS Drawings\M XD\JPW0888-LV-002_D171201_(LANDM APGeologica Landsca l peAscept L3)(Figure5a).mxd BLNGW L H009 BLNGW L H003 BLNGW L H001 BLNGW L H044 ©2016RPS Group BLNGW L H001 BLNGW L H044 Notes BLNGW L H041 This 1. drawing has been prepared accordancein with the scope of RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject tothe terms and conditionsofthat appointment. RPS accepts noliability for any use ofthis ± BRCKNLH265 documentother than by its client and onlyfor the purposes for which it BRCKNLH807 BLNGW L H041 wasprepared and provided. BLNGW L H001 BLNGW L H004 received If 2. electronically itisthe recipients responsibility toprint to correctscale. Onlywritten dimensions should be used. Legend BLNGW L H011 BLNGW L H091 SiteLocation BLNGW L H046 5kmBuffer from Site LANDMAP Landscape Habitats Aspect Area Classification BLNGW L H050 Nolabel CynonLH107 Level 3 AcidGrassland BLNGW L H014 BLNGW L H029 Bog/BarePeat/Flush/Spring Bracken BLNGW L H097 CynonLH108 BLNGW L H006 BLNGW L H080 BroadleavedWoodland ConiferousWoodland CynonLH110 DwarfShrub Heath ImprovedGrassland BLNGW L H015 BLNGW L H016 MRTHRLH009 Intertidal,Including Muds/Sands, Saltmarsh, Shingle[T rimmed] Marsh/MarshyGrassland CynonLH111 BLNGW L H081 MixedWoodland BLNGW L H052 Mosaic NeutralGrassland BLNGW L H007 BLNGW L H028 Residential/GreenSpace CynonLH109
BLNGW L H095 CynonLH115 BLNGW L H051 MRTHRLH009 BLNGW L H008 BLNGW L H019 BLNGW L H027 BLNGW L H030
CynonLH113 BLNGW L H083 BLNGW L H026 BLNGW L H085
BLNGW L H021 BLNGW L H095 BLNGW L H034 BLNGW L H024 CynonLH114 BLNGW L H025 BLNGW L H032 BLNGW L H033
BLNGW L H084 CynonLH122 BLNGW L H020 CynonLH112 BLNGW L H082 Rev Description Date Initial Checked CynonLH113 BLNGW L H031 BLNGW L H023 BLNGW L H036 MRTHRLH007 CynonLH119 CynonLH127 CynonLH120 BLNGW L H022
BLNGW L H074
BLNGW L H093 ParkHouse, Grey friarsRoad, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T : +44(0)2920 668 662 E: [email protected] E: 662668+44(0)2920 T : 622668+44(0)2920 F:
CynonLH121 BLNGW L H075 CynonLH126 Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LT D CynonLH116 BLNGW L H094 CynonLH117 Project W AU NTY SSW GFARM PV CynonLH118 CynonLH120 CynonLH127 BLNGW L H076 T itle L ANDMAP:LANDSCAPE HABITATS ASPECT CynonLH128 AREACLASSIFICATION LEVEL - 3 MRTHRLH013 CynonLH113 BLNGW L H092 Status DrawnBy PM/CheckedBy CynonLH125 PLANNING GG MG CynonLH112 JobRef Scale@ A3 DateCreated CynonLH124 CynonLH128 JPW 0888 1:40,000 MAR18 MRTHRLH012 DrawingNumber Rev CynonLH137 CynonLH123 CynonLH131 JPW0888-LV-003 - CynonLH132 CynonLH128 CynonLH136 FIGURE 5b 0 1,000 2,000 m CynonLH130 rpsgroup.com/uk MRTHRLH011 ContainsCynonLH130OS data ©Crown Copy rightand database right 2017 O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW xx\JPW 08 WAU 0888- NT Y SSW GFARM, ABERT Y SSW G(DWDrawings\1. )\4. RPS Drawings\MX D\JPW 0888-LV-003_D171201_(LANDMAPLandscape Habitats Apect L3)(Figure 5b).mxd BLNGW VS 431 BLNGW VS 143 ©2016RPS Group BLNGW VS 958 Notes BLNGW VS 242 BLNGW VS 291 This 1. drawing has been prepared accordancein with the scope of BLNGW VS 399 BLNGW VS 958 RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and BLNGW VS 431 conditionsthatof appointment. RPS accepts liabilityno forany use thisof ± BRCK NVS 372 documentother than by its client and foronlythe purposes forwhich it wasprepared and provided. BLNGW VS 399 received If 2. electronically itisthe recipients responsibility printto to BLNGW VS 214 correctscale. Onlywritten dimensions should be used.
BLNGW VS 143 Legend BLNGW VS 246 BLNGW VS 958 BLNGW VS 242 BLNGW VS 643 S iteLocation BLNGW VS 985 BLNGW VS 242 5kmBuffer from Site BLNGW VS 291 Visual and Sensory Aspect Area Classification CY NONVS 361 BLNGW VS 861 Level 3 BLNGW VS 958 AmenityLand CY NONVS 716 MRTHRVS 313 BLNGW VS 935 Derelict/WasteGround BLNGW VS 436 BLNGW VS 958 Excavation CY NONVS 716 HillsideScarp& Slopes Graz ing HillsideScarp& Slopes Mosaic CY NONVS 003 Intertidal MosaicLowland Valleys MosaicLowlandRolling MRTHRVS 122 BLNGW VS 927 BLNGW VS 713 MosaicUpland Plateaux& OpenUpland Valleys CY NONVS 209 BLNGW VS 688 MRTHRVS 762 Open/WoodedMosaic Upland Valleys CY NONVS 352 MRTHRVS 122 BLNGW VS 958 BLNGW VS 935 UplandGraz ing BLNGW VS 993 BLNGW VS 334 UplandMoorland BLNGW VS 246 Urban MRTHRVS 876 Village CY NONVS 193 W oodedUpland Plateaux& W oodedUpland Valleys BLNGW VS 673 BLNGW VS 688 CY NONVS 361
BLNGW VS 542 BLNGW VS 713
MRTHRVS 355 BLNGW VS 713
CY NONVS 005 CY NONVS 605
Rev Description Date Initial Checked
BLNGW VS 935
MRTHRVS 506 CY NONVS 785
ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ MRTHRVS 452 BLNGW VS 762 [email protected] E: 662668+44(0)2920 T : 622668+44(0)2920 F: CY NONVS 605 Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LTD
CY NONVS 785 CY NONVS 144 Project W AUNTY S S W GFARM PV MRTHRVS 317 MRTHRVS 101 MRTHRVS 858 CY NONVS 144 BLNGW VS 404 T itle LANDMAP:VISUAL AND SENS ORYASPECT AREACLASS IFICATIONLEVEL - 3 CY NONVS 864 BLNGW VS 119 S tatus DrawnBy PM/CheckedBy PLANNING GG MG CY NONVS 404 JobRef S cale@ A3 DateCreated MRTHRVS 119 MRTHRVS 122 JPW 0888 1:40,000 MAR18
DrawingNumber Rev CY NONVS 308 CY NONVS 308 MRTHRVS 101 JPW0888-LV-004 - CY NONVS 971 MRTHRVS 429 MRTHRVS0 460 1,000 2,000 m FIGURE5c rpsgroup.com/uk
O:\04JOBS \01OPEN JOBS \JPWxx\JPW 08 WAUNT 0888- Y S S W GFARM, ABERT Y S S W G(DWDraw )\4. ings\1.RPS Draw ings\MX D\JPW 0888-LV-004_D171201_(LANDMAPVisual and Sensory Apect L3)(Figure 5c).mxd ©2016RPS Group Notes 1. This 1. drawing has been prepared accordancein with the scope of RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and conditionsthatof appointment. RPS accepts liabilityno forany use thisof ± documentother than by its client and foronlythe purposes forwhich it wasprepared and provided. 2. If received If 2. electronically itisthe recipients responsibility printto to correctscale. Onlywritten dimensions should be used. Legend
SiteLocation 5kmBuffer from Site Visual and Sensory Aspect Overall Classification VS26 High L ow Moderate Outstanding
Rev Description Date Initial Check ed
ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T : +44(0)2920 668 662 E: [email protected] E: 662668+44(0)2920 T : 622668+44(0)2920 F:
Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LT D
Project W AU NTY SSW GFARM PV
T itle L ANDMAP:VISUAL AND SENSORY ASPECT OVERALLCLASSIFICATION
Status DrawnBy PM/Check edBy PLANNING GG MG JobRef Scale@ A3 DateCreated JPW 0888 1:40,000 MAR18
DrawingNumber Rev JPW0888-LV-005 -
0 1,000 2,000 m FIGURE 5d rpsgroup.com/uk ContainsOS data ©Crown Copyright and database right 2017 O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW xx\JPW 08 WAU 0888- NT Y SSW GFARM, ABERT Y SSW G(DWDrawings\1. )\4. RPS Drawings\MX D\JPW 0888-LV-005_D171201_(LANDMAPVisual Sensory& Aspect Overall Class)(Figure 5d).mxd BLNGW HL007 ©2016RPS Group BLNGW HL001 BLNGW HL792 Notes 1. This 1. drawing has been prepared accordancein with the scope of BLNGW HL009 RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and BLNGW HL004 conditionsthatof appointment. RPS accepts liabilityno forany use thisof ± BRCK NHL133 documentother than by its client and foronlythe purposes forwhich it wasprepared and provided. BLNGW HL001 BLNGW HL003 BLNGW HL001 received If 2. electronically itisthe recipients responsibility printto to correctscale. Onlywritten dimensions should be used. BLNGW HL011 Legend BLNGW HL017 S iteLocation BLNGW HL006 BLNGW HL008 BLNGW HL012 5kmBuffer from Site BLNGW HL013 Historic Landscape Aspect Area Classification Level 3 CLS_3 Communications CynonHL866 BLNGW HL018 CynonHL706 Designed Extractive MRTHRHL009 BLNGW HL014 IrregularFieldscapes BLNGW HL019 MarginalLand MRTHRHL003 BLNGW HL016 NucleatedSettlement OtherSettlement BLNGW HL019 Otherfieldscapes Processing/Manufacturing Reclaimedland BLNGW HL023 RegularFieldscapes MRTHRHL005 BLNGW HL020 W aterWetland& BLNGW HL026 W oodland CynonHL633
CynonHL483 BLNGW HL022 BLNGW HL028 BLNGW HL021
BLNGW HL029 BLNGW HL031
BLNGW HL027 MRTHRHL008 BLNGW HL030 BLNGW HL032 CynonHL831
BLNGW HL036 CynonHL696 Rev Description Date Initial Checked
CynonHL701 BLNGW HL038
CynonHL696 BLNGW HL037 ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T : +44(0)2920 668 662 E: [email protected] E: 662668+44(0)2920 T : 622668+44(0)2920 F: MRTHRHL010 BLNGW HL041
CynonHL696 Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LTD CynonHL885 MRTHRHL026 Project W AUNTY S S W GFARM PV MRTHRHL015
BLNGW HL039 T itle LANDMAP:HIST ORICLANDS CAPEASPECT AREACLASS IFICATIONLEVEL 3 MRTHRHL014 CynonHL636 BLNGW HL040 S tatus DrawnBy PM/CheckedBy PLANNING GG MG CynonHL602 JobRef S cale@ A3 DateCreated JPW 0888 1:40,000 MAR18 MRTHRHL012 MRTHRHL016 CynonHL660 DrawingNumber Rev JPW0888-LV-006 -
0 1,000 2,000 m FIGURE 5e rpsgroup.com/uk MRTHRHL024 MRTHRHL022 ContainsOS data ©Crown Copyright and database right 2017 O:\04JOBS \01OPEN JOBS \JPWxx\JPW 08 WAUNT 0888- Y S S W GFARM, ABERT Y S S W G(DWDraw )\4. ings\1.RPS Draw ings\MX D\JPW 0888-LV-006_D171201_(LANDMAPHistoric Landscape Aspect L3)(Figure 5e).mxd ©2016RPS Group Notes 1. This 1. drawing ha sbeen prepared accordain ncewith the scope of RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and conditionsthaof appointment. t RPS accepts liabilityno anyfor use thisof ± documentother tha by n its client and onlythe for purposes whichfor it wa sprepared and provided. 2. If received If 2. electronica llyitisthe recipients responsibility toprint correctsca Only le. written dimensions should be used. Legend
SiteLoca tion 5kmBuffer fromSite Historic Landscape Aspect Overall Value Low M oderate High Outstanding U nassessed
Rev Description Date Initial Checked
ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T: +44(0)2920 668 662 E: rpsca E: 662668 @rpsgroup.com+44(0)2920 T: 622668+44(0)2920 F:
Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LTD
Project WAU NTYSSWGFARM PV
Title LANDMHISTORIC AP: LANDSCAPE ASPECT OV ERALLVALUE
Status DrawnBy PM /CheckedBy PLANNING GG MG JobRef Sca le@ A3 DateCrea ted JPW0888 1:40,000 M AR18
DrawingNumber Rev JPW0888-LV-007 -
0 1,000 2,000 m FIGURE 5f rpsgroup.com/uk ContainsOS da ta©Crown Copyright and da taba seright 2017 O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW08 xx\JPW0888 WAU - NTY SSWGFARM ABERTY , SSWG(DW)\4.Drawings\1. RPS Drawings\M XD\JPW0888-LV-007_D171201_(LANDM APHistoric Landsca peAspect Overall Va lue)(Figure5f).mxd ©2016RPS Group Notes 1. This 1. drawing ha sbeen prepared accordain ncewith the scope of RPS’sappointment with its client and issubject theto terms and conditionsthaof appointment. t RPS accepts liabilityno anyfor use thisof ± documentother tha by n its client and onlythe for purposes whichfor it wa sprepared and provided. 2. If received If 2. electronica llyitisthe recipients responsibility toprint correctsca Only le. written dimensions should be used. Legend
SiteLoca tion 5kmBuffer fromSite LANDMAP Cultural Landscape Aspect Level 3 Artistic Customs Industrial Infrastructure Institutions Pla ces Rural U rba n
Rev Description Date Initial Checked
ParkHouse, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, CF10 3AQ T: +44(0)2920 668 662 E: rpsca E: 662668 @rpsgroup.com+44(0)2920 T: 622668+44(0)2920 F:
Client ELGINENERGY EsCO LTD
Project WAU NTYSSWGFARM PV
Title LANDMCU AP: LTURALLANDSCAPE ASPECT AREACLASSIFICATION LEVEL 3
Status DrawnBy PM /CheckedBy PLANNING GG MG JobRef Sca le@ A3 DateCrea ted JPW0888 1:40,000 M AR18
DrawingNumber Rev JPW0888-LV-008 -
0 1,000 2,000 m FIGURE 5g rpsgroup.com/uk ContainsOS da ta©Crown Copyright and da taba seright 2017 O:\04JOBS\01 OPEN JOBS\JPW08 xx\JPW0888 WAU - NTY SSWGFARM ABERTY , SSWG(DW)\4.Drawings\1. RPS Drawings\M XD\JPW0888-LV-008_D171201_(LANDM APCultural Landsca peAspect Area Cla ssL3)(Figure 5g).mxd