BROADLAND Land off Private Drive to Taverham Hall School, Norfolk DISTRICT COUNCIL 12 July 2018 20181142 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PLANNING CONTROL On behalf of Fleur Developments Ltd August 2017 B FINAL LF JBA JBA October 2017

A FINAL LF JBA JBA September 2017

- FINAL LF / DY JW JBA August 2017

Revision Purpose Originated Checked Authorised Date

Document Number: Document Reference:

JBA 13/164 - Doc2 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Land off Private Drive to Taverham Hall School, Taverham, Norfolk

Land| Land off off PrivatePrivate Drive Drive to at Taverham TaverhamHall School, Norfolk CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION 1 5. LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT 15 LIST OF FIGURES 1.1 Background 5.1 Scope Figure 1 Site Location and Study Area 1 1.2 Scope 5.2 Landscape Baseline Figure 2 Policy Context 7 1.3 Study Area and Landscape Context 5.3 Landscape Receptors Figure 3 Site Photographs 12 5.4 Landscape Effects Figure 4 Site Analysis 14 2. METHODOLOGY 3 Figure 5 Landscape Masterplan 18 2.1 Background 6. VISUAL ASSESSMENT 25 Figure 6 Landscape Character 20 2.2 Assessment Approach 6.1 Scope Figure 7 Landform Analysis 30 2.3 Landscape Assessment 6.2 Visual Baseline Figure 8 Visual Analysis 31 2.4 Visual Assessment 6.3 Representative Views 2.5 Scale of Effects 6.4 Visual Effects 2.6 Limitations and Assumptions APPENDICES 7. MITIGATION AND MONITORING 42 Appendix A: References 3. PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK 6 7.1 Primary Mitigation and Design Measures Appendix B: Criteria for Assessing Sensitivity 3.1 Background 7.2 Secondary Mitigation and Monitoring Measures Appendix C: Criteria for Assessing Magnitude of 3.2 Statutory and Non-Statutory Designations Change and Scale of Effect 3.3 The National Planning Policy Framework 8. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 43 3.4 Greater Norwich Joint Core Strategy 8.1 General 3.5 Broadland Development Management Development Plan 8.2 Baseline Conditions Document 8.3 Landscape Strategy 3.6 Supplementary Planning Guidance 8.4 Summary of Landscape and Visual Effects

4. APPLICATION SITE AND PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 9 4.1 Site Description 4.2 Constraints and Opportunities 4.3 Evolution of Detailed Design 4.4 Proposed Development

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | [ This page is intentionally blank ]

| Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

1.1.1 James Blake Associates Ltd (JBA) has been instructed by Fleur Developments Ltd to prepare a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) to accompany a full planning application for the construction of six residential dwellings on land off a private drive in the grounds of Taverham Hall School, Norfolk.

1.2 Scope

1.2.1 The aims and objectives of this assessment are:

• To describe and evaluate the current landscape character of the site and its surroundings, and identify potential landscape receptors with reference to published character types/areas and their characteristic landscape elements;

• To identify potential visual receptors (i.e. people who would be able to see the site and the proposed development) and their representative views;

• To evaluate the sensitivity of landscape and visual receptors to the type of development proposed;

• To describe and assess any impacts of the development in so far as they affect the landscape and/or views of it and to evaluate the magnitude of change and the scale of effect; and

• To identify any specific mitigation or monitoring measures that are required to reduce residual landscape and visual effects.

1.2.2 The methodology for undertaking the assessment is in accordance with the ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ (GLVIA3)1 and best practice.

1.2.3 The assessment has been carried out as an integral part of the design process. The initial evaluation (baseline) was used to identify the landscape and visual constraints as well as opportunities of both the site and its surrounding landscape. The potential landscape and visual effects subsequently informed a landscape strategy that was incorporated into the development masterplan as primary / embedded mitigation through an iterative design approach.

1.2.4 As such the assessment and design process aims to ensure that:

• Aspects which make an essential contribution to landscape character are maintained and managed;

• The development and associated change can be accommodated within the existing landscape and visual context; and

Figure 1: Site Location and Study Area. Scale 1:25,000@A3 1 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Institute N Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432 and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, Third Edition 2013

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 1 • Improvements and enhancements can be made where uncharacteristic features detract from the character and visual amenity of the area.

1.3 Study Area and Landscape Context

1.3.1 Taverham is a large village in Norfolk, with a population of over 14,000 people. It is located approximately six miles north-west of Norwich City Centre. The Parish lies within the authority of Broadland District Council, close to the District Boundary with South Norfolk.

1.3.2 The site lies to the south-east of the village, within the grounds of Taverham Hall School, a day and boarding school for fee-paying pupils (refer to Figure 1). The site lies outside of the settlement boundary and in planning terms is within an area of countryside.

1.3.3 The site, which is irregular in shape, is bound by belts of woodland on all sides. To the north, beyond the private access drive are three residential dwellings. The buildings of Taverham Hall School lie to the west of the site.

1.3.4 The extent of the study area is based on the potential visual envelope of the site and the proposed development i.e. the area from which views of the development may be visible, informed by topographical maps and field survey.

1.3.5 The identified study area is shown on Figure 1. The area is centered on the site, and extends for approximately 1.0km in all directions.

1.3.6 The study area is within the Natural England ‘Central North Norfolk Character Area 78’. The key characteristics are generally low-lying topography, relatively well-wooded with aggregations of woodland around river valley slopes, variable field sizes and river valleys with water meadows that are divided by reed-filled dykes.

1.3.7 Within the Broadland District Landscape Character Assessment of 2008 (Revised 2013), the Study Area is within the Urban Area and the Wensum River Valley character area. Key characteristics of the Wensum River Valley include it’s distinctive landform of flat valley floodplain with adjacent gently sloping sides, small-scale fields with hedgerow boundaries, hedgerow trees and blocks of woodland on the valley sides.

2 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk 2. METHODOLOGY the project and the nature of the likely effects; the emphasis being on those that are likely to be important.

2.1 Background 2.2.3 The process of LVIA is based on the following process:

2.1.1 This report identifies and assesses the landscape and visual effects of the • Baseline appraisal including desk based and field surveys to identify the proposed development over the course of the project from construction nature of the existing resource. Sources of information for the desk study through to its completion. are listed in Appendix A;

2.1.2 Throughout the report a clear distinction is made between landscape (the • Identification of the individual receptors likely to experience change from landscape as a resource) and visual: the proposal and a description of the effects, both negative and positive;

• Landscape Assessment (Section 5.0): The landscape resource • An assessment of the scale of the effects identified; and incorporates the physical characteristics or elements of the urban and • Identification of the mitigation or monitoring measures that may be required. rural environment which together establish the character of each area e.g. geology, soils, topography, hydrology, land cover, land use, vegetation and 2.2.4 For the purposes of this report, the term ‘impact’ refers to the cause of the settlement and the way it is experienced. Landscape effects can arise change and ‘effects’ are the results or changes on the landscape and visual from changes to individual landscape components, landscape character context. and sense of place. This includes effects on areas recognised for their landscape value. 2.2.5 It is recognised that the scale and nature of the change will vary throughout the course of the project. To provide an indication of the changes that will • Visual Assessment (Section 6.0): The visual assessment considers the occur through the various stages, the magnitude of change and scale of nature of existing views and visual amenity including the extent of visibility effect is assessed at the following key points: of the site and the proposed development, and the people who might experience them. Visual effects considers how the views of individuals • Construction phase – estimated duration of 1 year. Parts of the development Plate 1: LVIA3 and how they are perceived will change. may be completed and occupied within this time; • The landscape components within the site that contribute to the landscape 2.1.3 The assessment of the site, the surrounding landscape character and visibility • Completion Year 1 – to represent the worst case scenario, where planting - topography, land cover, land use, vegetation, settlement and buildings for are based on a period of desk study and field survey carried out between has been implemented, but before any planted mitigation can take example; and April 2016 and July 2017. effect. This commences on the full practical completion of the proposed development; and • Landscape character and the key characteristics that contribute to it including aesthetic and perceptual aspects. 2.2 Assessment Approach • Completion Year 15 – to represent the best case scenario, where planting mitigation measures can be expected to be effective. These are considered 2.2.1 The assessment of landscape and visual effects is based on the following Landscape Baseline to be the residual effects. good practice guidelines: 2.3.2 The baseline study includes a combination of desk and fieldwork in order to 2.2.6 In terms of the description of visual effects it is acknowledged that this will • Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland1; identify the existing character of the landscape, and the elements, features vary according to the season based on the extent of vegetation cover. The and and aesthetic and perceptual aspects that contribute to it. Landscapes that assessment at all stages is based on the worst case scenario when vegetation share similar components and characteristics can be classified into generic • Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA3)2. is not in leaf. Landscape Character Types (LCTs) and/or locational specific Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) at a range of scales from national through to local. 2.2.2 In accordance with the guidelines and best practice, LVIA uses a combination 2.2.7 The LVIA process is an integral part of the design process. Following an of quantitative and qualitative information including informed and reasoned initial assessment of the baseline, primary mitigation measures (for example 2.3.3 Within the study area a hierarchy of Landscape Character Assessments professional judgement. The assessment of the scale of landscape and the retention of vegetation, the location of buildings, building heights and has been undertaken. The study of the assessments within the hierarchy is visual effects follows a systematic and consistent step-by-step process so new planting) were embedded into the design of the development proposals important to aid understanding of the landscape and to allow the identification that rational and transparent conclusions can be drawn. In accordance with as part of an iterative approach. These measures are identified in the of landscape components that may be present at different scales. GLVIA3 the approach and methodology used is proportional to the scale of description of the development. The assessment of landscape effects is based on the final submitted scheme. 2.3.4 Published assessments at the national and county level were reviewed to 1 Landscape Character Assessment Guidance for England and Scotland, provide a broad landscape context; These existing documents were used to Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage, 2002 2.3 Landscape Assessment determine the extent of different LCTs and LCAs within the study area, along with their key characteristics, condition and inherent sensitivity to change 2 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Institute 2.3.1 The assessment of landscape effects addresses the effects of change and and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, Third Edition development on landscape as a resource i.e: 2013

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 3 along with any applicable management or development recommendations. scale as set out Appendix C: Table C1 from high to negligible. High is 2.4.7 All photographs were taken during the day with a digital camera at a focal described as a prominent and notable change, while low or negligible applies length of 50mm and an eye height of 1.65m in accordance with technical 2.3.5 Field work was used to record the specific characteristics within the study where changes are small and/or localised. The nature of the impact can be guidance and best practice. To achieve a wider field of view, a series of area to determine the extent to which the site and its immediate surroundings positive or negative; however, there may be instances where an effect is overlapping photographs were taken, and later joined together to form are representative of the wider area, and to identify other characteristics neither. These effects are considered to be neutral in nature. panoramic images with minor retouching to eliminate slight variations in potentially not identified in published documents, but which are important colour tone. For ease of reference, visible elements within the site and when considering the effects of the proposed development at a local level. 2.4 Visual Assessment surrounding area, including the approximate extent of the site are identified. 2.3.6 Following the baseline study, the potential landscape receptors (landscape 2.4.8 Following the baseline study, the potential visual receptors were identified components and character areas) were identified and their sensitivity to the 2.4.1 The visual assessment considers the direct effect of changes to existing and their sensitivity to the proposed development assessed. Sensitivity is proposed development assessed. Sensitivity is defined by a combination of views and the visual amenity arising from the proposed development. defined by a combination of value and susceptibility to change based on word value and susceptibility to change based on word based scales (for criteria Visual Baseline based scales (for criteria refer to Appendix B: Table B2). refer to Appendix B: Table B1). 2.4.2 The baseline for assessing visual effects establishes the area from which the 2.4.9 The value of existing views was identified taking into account the presence of 2.3.7 The value of each receptor is assessed taking into account the presence of site and proposed development may be visible and the nature and number of statutory and non-statutory designations and with reference to other indicators statutory and non-statutory designations and the reasons for their designation, different groups of people who are likely to experience change. such as their appearance in guidebooks or maps and the frequency of use. in conjunction with published Landscape Character Assessments and the findings of the baseline assessment including: 2.4.3 For visual effects the receptors may include: 2.4.10 The susceptibility of visual receptors is dependent on the location and context of the view, the number of people likely to be affected by the change, the • The condition and overall strength of character of the site and its • Users of properties: such as residents, employees or visitors; expectations and the occupation/activity of the receptor. surrounding area; • Users of public rights of way: public footpaths, bridleways, byways and 2.4.11 The sensitivity of visual receptors is classified on a sliding scale from high • The importance, value or special qualities placed on the receptor; and permissive paths; to low and is determined by combining value and susceptibility as set out in • The objectives of landscape strategies and guidance. • Users of transport routes: main roads and residential streets; and Appendix B: Table B3.

2.3.8 The susceptibility to the proposed development is assessed on: • Places accessible to the public including open space areas, public gardens 2.4.12 Those receptors which are classified as being of high sensitivity may include and other destinations. users of rights of way or nearby residents, while those of low sensitivity may • The capacity of the landscape to accommodate the proposed development; include people in their place of work or travelling through the landscape in 2.4.4 The area from which the site and proposed development will be visible i.e. the cars or other modes of transport. The assessment of views from private • The extent of the proposals being in accordance with management or policy Visual Envelope (VE) was determined by manual analysis of topographical residences, particularly those bordering the site, is based on representative objectives; and data combined with aerial images. As the extent of the VE is locally influenced views from groups of dwellings or streets based on the nearest possible • The potential for mitigation. by landform, vegetation and existing built development, fieldwork was used publicly accessible location. to verify the views actually available using publicly accessible locations. 2.3.9 The sensitivity of landscape components is classified on a sliding scale from Identification and Description of Visual Change high to low and is determined by combining value and susceptibility as set 2.4.5 A number of viewpoints were selected for inclusion in the assessment to 2.4.13 Changes to views identified during the baseline study and the subsequent out in Appendix B: Table B3. demonstrate the extent of visibility of the site and the future development as well as the visual amenity currently experienced. At each viewpoint, baseline effect on visual receptors were identified and described with reference to the 2.3.10 Those landscape components which make a notable contribution to the area photographs were taken to record the existing view. The viewpoints and following: and can not accommodate the proposed development without affecting the supporting photographs do not provide continuous coverage of all locations • The nature of the view of the development e.g. a full or partial view, or only baseline situation and/or achievement of landscape planning strategies are within the vicinity, but provide a sample of the following: a glimpse; of high sensitivity, while those which are replaceable or contribute little to the • Representative: illustrating views from within a wider area e.g. views overall character of the landscape and can accommodate the change without • The proportion of the development or particular features that would be representative of a group of houses or a street or along a public right of affecting the baseline situation are of low sensitivity. visible; way; Identification and Description of Landscape Change • The distance of the viewpoint from the site and whether the viewer would • Specific: demonstrating views from key locations such as visitor focus on the development due to its scale and/or proximity or whether it 2.3.11 For each landscape receptor, the likely changes arising from the development destinations or recognised viewpoints, views from protected landscapes or would comprise a small, minor element in a panoramic view; during the construction and following its completion were identified and with particular cultural associations; and described. Such interactions include changes to or loss of existing elements, • Whether the view is stationary/fixed, transient, or one of a sequence of • Illustrative: demonstrating a particular effect or specific issue e.g. restricted the introduction of new elements and the combined effect of these changes views experienced along a route or moving vehicle; and on the overall character of the area. visibility in an area where views might be anticipated. • The nature of the change resulting from the development through the 2.3.12 The magnitude of landscape impacts is classified on a sliding word based 2.4.6 As such all views and visual amenity are best experienced in the field.

4 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk removal or introduction of features (both natural and man-made) and or temporary loss or alteration to one or more key elements or features of stock size, the nature of the growing conditions and other factors such as any associated changes to the profile of the skyline, visual simplicity/ the landscape and/or introduce elements that may not be uncharacteristic maintenance and vandalism. It is assumed that planting will be implemented complexity, enclosure/openness and scale. of the surrounding area. The development would cause limited visual following the substantial completion of each phase and fully implemented by intrusion and would result in a barely perceptible deterioration to visual Year 1 with an average growth rate of 300-400mm/year. 2.4.14 The magnitude of visual effects is classified on a sliding scale as set out amenity; in Appendix C: Table C2 from high to negligible where high is a prominent and notable change in the view to low or negligible where changes are small • Negligible: The development would result in very limited change to the and/or barely perceptible. The nature of the impact can be either positive existing landscape resource or visual amenity. or negative; however, there may be instances where an impact results in an • Minor beneficial: The development would complement the key elements or effect that is neither. These effects are considered to be neutral in nature. features of the landscape and/or introduce elements that are characteristic of the surrounding area maintaining landscape character. The development 2.5 Scale of Effects would visually complement the existing view and would result in a barely 2.5.1 The importance of landscape and visual effects is a function of the sensitivity perceptible improvement to visual amenity; of the landscape resource and visual receptors against the magnitude of • Moderate beneficial: The development would fit in well with and enhance change that they would experience. In accordance with GLVIA3, importance the key elements or features of the landscape and/or introduce elements is not absolute and whilst a judgement is made on both the overall sensitivity that maintain and/or enhance landscape character. The development would of each identified receptor and the magnitude of change, the conclusion is visually integrate into the existing view and would result in a noticeable based on the professional judgement of the assessor. improvement to visual amenity;

2.5.2 The nature and relative importance of the effects depends on the degree to • Major beneficial: The development would entirely fit in well with and which the development: substantially enhance the key elements or features of the landscape and/ • Complements, respects and fits into the existing landscape and views; or introduce elements that substantially enhance landscape character. The development would visually integrate into the existing view and would • Enables the retention, enhancement or restoration of landscape character result in a substantial improvement to visual amenity. and visual amenity and delivers landscape guidelines and/or policy aspirations; and 2.6 Limitations and Assumptions • Influences the visual context and in particular strategic and important 2.6.1 The visual survey and baseline photographs were completed during April views. 2016. The images represent a time when deciduous trees and hedgerows 2.5.3 The importance or scale of landscape and visual effects is determined by were in partial leaf, representing a near worse case scenario in terms of the combining the sensitivity of the receptor and the magnitude of the change extent of visibility likely to be experienced. likely to occur. The scale effect is described as Major, Moderate, Minor or 2.6.2 The proposed Site Layout, House Types and Elevations, along with the Negligible as set out in Appendix C: Table C3. Effects can be either adverse Landscape Masterplan provide a good level of information against which the or beneficial. effects of the proposed development have been assessed. It is assumed that 2.5.4 The final assessment of the scale of effects can be summarised as: the detailed design will be implemented in full accordance with these plans.

• Major adverse: The development would cause a total permanent loss 2.6.3 The architectural information provides an indication of the proposed building or major alteration to key elements or features of the landscape and/or materials. These respond to the local vernacular and will include red brick, introduce elements that are totally uncharacteristic of the surrounding timber boarding and slate tiles roofs. The exact materials will be agreed area. The development would be visually intrusive and would result in a post planning via condition and is further considered as part of secondary substantial deterioration to visual amenity; mitigation measures.

• Moderate adverse: The development would cause a substantial permanent 2.6.4 The Landscape Masterplan establishes the key principles of both hard and loss or alternation to one or more key elements or features of the landscape soft landscape, boundary treatments and other structures. The detailed and/or introduce elements that are prominent but may not be substantially design will be prepared post planning and agreed via condition. Specific characteristic of the surrounding area. The development would be visually aspects regarding the detailed design and implementation of planting is intrusive and would result in a noticeable deterioration to visual amenity. addressed as part of secondary mitigation measures in Section 8.0.

• Minor adverse: The development would cause a minor permanent and/ 2.6.5 The time that new planting takes to establish is dependent on species,

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 5 3. PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK development site. ºº The Parish Church of St Edmund is Grade I listed. It is about 420m to the east of the proposed development site. 3.1 Background 3.2.2 Other designations within the study area include locally designated areas of National Planning Policy Framework 3.1.1 This section provides an overview of planning policy as relevant to landscape. Green Space. The assessment includes the identification of both statutory and non-statutory designations within the study area (including protected landscapes, historical and ecological assets). 3.3 The National Planning Policy Framework

3.1.2 The assessment considers the following: 3.3.1 The NPPF sets out the Government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. The NPPF sets out a clear presumption • The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), March 2012 and in favour of sustainable development, which should be seen as a ‘golden associated National Planning Practice Guidance (NNPG); thread’ running through plan-making and decision-taking. There are three dimensions to sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. • The Broadland District Council Local Plan. This is made up from several documents including: 3.3.2 NPPF Section 7: Requiring Good Design sets out that good quality and ººThe Joint Core Strategy DPD, adopted March 2011 with further inclusive design is a key aspect of sustainable development. As such all amendments adopted in January 2014; and new developments should ‘function well and add to the overall quality of the

www.communities.gov.uk ººThe Development Management DPD, adopted August 2015. area..;’ ‘establish a strong sense of place...;’ ‘optimise the potential of the site community, opportunity, prosperity to accommodate development, creating and sustaining an appropriate mix of 3.1.3 Further information is set out in the Planning Statement that accompanies the uses (including green and other public space);’ ‘respond to local character Plate 2: The National Planning Policy Framework Planning Application. and history, and reflect the identity of local surroundings and materials, while not preventing or discouraging appropriate innovation;’ and ‘be visually 3.2 Statutory and Non-Statutory Designations attractive as a result of good architecture and landscaping’. These principles Norfolk District Council and Norwich City Council over the period until 2026 are supported by NNPG 26: Design. 3.2.1 As shown on Figure 2: Policy Context the study area incorporates a number 3.4.2 This document distributes growth according to a settlement hierachy. The of statutory and non-statutory designations. These are summarised below: 3.3.3 NPPF Section 11: Conserving and Enhancing the Natural Environment village of Taverham is in the Norwich Policy Area and is identified as Norwich sets out that the planning system should contribute to and enhance the Urban Area, which is at the top of the growth hierachy. However, Taverham • The site lies within an area designated as ‘Historic Parkland/Historic environment by protecting and enhancing valued landscapes. This includes is not specifically identified for the delivery of housing growth and therefore Gardens’ in the Broadland District Council Development Management DPD. designated landscapes but also the wider countryside. In this respect comes within the smaller sites in the Norwich Policy Area in accordance with Policy EN2 of this document states that in order to protect the character of Local planning authorities should ‘set criteria based policies against which the settlement hierachy, local environment and servicing conditions. the area, development proposals should consider the impact on and seek development on or affecting protected…. landscape areas will be judged.’ to protect and enhance Historic Parks and Gardens where appropriate. 3.4.3 The following policies are of relevance to the proposed development in Distinctions should be made between ‘the hierarchy of international, national relation to this assessment: • The River Wensum (to the south and west of the site) is a Site of Special and locally designated sites, so that the protection is commensurate with Scientific Interest and was designated a Special Area of Conservation their status…’. The highest level of protection should be given to areas • Spacial Planning Objective 9: To protect, manage and enhance the natural, under the EU Habitats Directive in 2001. At its closest point, the river lies of National importance (National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural built and historic environment, including key landscapes, natural resources approximately 90m south of the proposed development site. Beauty). These principles are supported by NNPG 8: Natural Environment and areas of natural habitat or nature conservation value. including landscape, biodiversity and green infrastructure. • Snake Wood, an area of ancient woodland, lies approximately 460m to • Policy 1: Addressing Climate Change and Protecting Environmental the west of the proposed development site. There are two other areas 3.3.4 NPPF Section 12: Conserving and Enhancing the Historic Environment places Assets. This policy states that the environmental assets of the area will of ancient and semi-natural woodland in the Study Area; Blyth’s Wood, emphasis on the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment, be protected, maintained, restored and enhanced. Benefits for residents approximately 800m to the south-west of the site and Blackhill Wood, recognising that ‘heritage assets are an irreplaceable resource’ and seeking and visitors will be improved. All new developments will ensure that there approximately 1000m to the south of the site. to ‘conserve them in a manner appropriate to their significance’. These will be no adverse impacts on sites with a European Union designation. principles are supported by NPPG 18a: Conserving and Enhancing the Any development that is likely to have any adverse affects on nationally • A number of County Wildlife Sites lie within the study area. The closest to Historic Environment. designated sites and species will be assessed in accordance with national the Site is Taverham Meadows, approximately 90m to the south. policy and legislation. Heritage assets will be conserved and enhanced • There are a number of Listed Buildings within Study Area, those in closest 3.4 Greater Norwich Joint Core Strategy and one of the ways in which this will be done is through the protection of proximity to the site are: their settings. 3.4.1 The Greater Norwich Joint Core Strategy provides strategic planning guidance ºº Taverham Hall (building, forecourt, balustrades and gates to the • Policy 2: Promoting Good Design. All developments will be designed to west) is Grade II listed. It is about 500m to the west of the proposed for the Greater Norwich area, including Broadland District Council, South

6 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk KEY

Site Boundary

District Boundary

Statutory Designations

Listed Buildings

Drayton Conservation Area

PRoW Footpath

PRoW Bridleway

River Wensum SSSI

Special Areas of Conservation

Non-Statutory Designations

Green Space

National Cycle Route 1

County Wildlife Site

Historic Parkland/Historic Gardens

Ancient Woodland

N Figure 2: Policy Context. Scale 1:25,000@A3 Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 7 the highest standards, creating a strong sense of place. In particular, • Policy GC2: Location of New Development. New development will be 2001 provides supplementary planning guidance for that part of the Study development proposals will respect local distinctiveness. accommodated within the settlement limits shown on the proposals map. Area which is within South Norfolk District. A Local Landscape Designation Outside of these limits development which does not result in any significant Review for the Landscape Character Areas and River Valleys in the Norwich • Policy 9: Strategy for Growth in Norwich Policy Area. The Norwich Policy adverse impacts will be permitted where it accords with specific policies Policy Area was carried out in September 2012. Area is focus for major growth and development within Greater Norwich. outlined in the DPD. The proposed development site would fall under the category of ‘Broadland 3.6.3 Full details of Landscape Character of relevance to this assessment are smaller sites in the Norwich Policy Area’, for which there is a figure of a • Policy GC4: Design. Development will be expected to achieve a high quality outlined in Section 5.0. minimum of 2000 dwellings during the period of the Joint Core Strategy. design. Amongst other things proposals should pay regard to the character Allocations to deliver the smaller sites in Broadland and South Norfolk will and appearance of an area. be made in accordance with the settlement hierachy and local environmental • Policy EN1: Biodiversity and Habitats. Development proposals will be and servicing conditions. expected to protect and enhance the biodiversity of the district, avoiding • Policy 12: The remainder of the Norwich Urban Area including the fringe the fragmentation of habitats and supporting the delivery of a co-ordinated parishes. The policy states that Green Infrastructure and links between green infrastructure network throughout the district. Paragraph 3.16 states currently fragmented habitats will be protected, maintained and enhanced, that the Council will seek to ensure inherent visual qualities and ensure that including the protection of the landscape setting of the urban area. the distinctive character of the of these areas is protected. Development will only be permitted where it does not result in any significant detrimental 3.5 Broadland Development Management Development impact upon the character, scenic quality or visual benefit of the area. The water environment is referenced in Paragraph 3.12, which states that all Plan Document new developments will ensure that there will be no adverse impacts on the water environment, European and Ramsar sites and other designated sites. 3.5.1 The Broadland Development Management DPD is one of several documents The River Wensum Special Area of Conservation is listed as a particularly that forms the current local plan for the Broadland District Council area (along sensitive area. with the Greater Norwich Joint Core Strategy DPD and the Broadland District Council Site Allocation DPD, which was adopted in May 2016). The DPD • Policy EN2: Landscape. In order to protect the character of the area, document applies the strategic principles in the National Planning Policy development proposals should have regard to the Landscape Character Framework and Greater Norwich Joint Core Strategy at a more local level. Assessment SPD and, in particular, consider any impact upon as well as seek to protect and enhance where appropriate. This includes: 3.5.2 The following policies are of relevance to the proposed development in ººVisually sensitive skylines, hillsides and valley sides and important relation to this assessment: views including the setting of the Broads Area. ººNocturnal character ººHistoric parks and gardens (the proposed development site is within an area designated as ‘Historic Parkland/Historic Garden’ in the Policies Map of the Development Management DPD) ººGreen spaces including natural and semi-natural features as well geological/geomorphological features which make a significant contribution towards defining the character of the area.

• Policy EN3: Green Infrastructure. Residential development consisting of five dwellings or more will be expected to provide at least 4ha of informal open space per 1000 population and at least 0.16ha of allotments per 1000 of population. However, paragraph 3.22 states that it is more likely that the Green Infrastructure requirements will need to be commuted for smaller developments.

3.6 Supplementary Planning Guidance Joint Core Strategy for Broadland, Norwich and South Norfolk 3.6.1 The Broadland District Council Landscape Character Assessment (September Adopted March 2011, amendments adopted January 2014 2013) is a Supplementary Planning Document for the Local Plan.

3.6.2 South Norfolk District Council’s Landscape Character Assessment of June

Plate 3: Broadland District Joint Core Strategy

8 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk 4. APPLICATION SITE AND PROPOSED boundaries of the site. The belt of trees on the western boundary is broad to minimise the loss of existing vegetation. Visibility splays will also need to the north and south, but narrows in the middle. The belt of trees along Main be considered. DEVELOPMENT Drive (on the northern boundary of the site) is narrower than on the other • The surrounding landscape is predominantly wooded with a strong pattern boundaries. Most of the site is vegetated with grass, but the north-eastern of mature garden vegetation and small woodland tree belts. 4.1 Site Description corner and south-eastern section are planted with native mixed woodland. • The site lies immediately adjacent to the River Wensum Environmental 4.1.1 The site is located within the grounds of Taverham Hall School, to the south 4.1.11 The site boundaries to the south, east and west are well vegetated, providing Sensitive Area. Careful consideration should be given to any impacts on west of the main village. The area, irregular in shape, extends to approximately good visual screening. Notable trees within the site boundary include three the River Wensum. 1.2Ha and is greenfield land. English Oak of BS Category A value (shown as T22, T23 and T29 on the tree survey). The majority of existing vegetation is of moderate to low • The site lies within an area identified as ‘Historic Parkland/Garden’ by 4.1.2 The main features of the application site are shown on Figure 3: Site arboricultural value (BS Category B or C) (refer to arboricultural report by Broadland District Council. This is a local designation and not included in Photographs A - F and Figure 4: Site Analysis. A.T. Coombes Associates Ltd for details). the Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England.

Context Surrounding Built Environment 4.2 Evolution of Detailed Design 4.1.3 The proposed development site lies within the grounds of Taverham Hall 4.1.12 There are three dwellings within the parkland to the north of the proposed School. Access to the site is off a private drive, known as the ‘Main Drive’ development site, all late 20th century. 4.2.1 The landscape strategy was informed by the findings of the landscape which links to Costessey Road to the east of the site. The site itself is and visual assessment and the analysis of constraints and opportunities. located adjacent to the main drive in an area of parkland with deeply wooded 4.1.13 Beyond the parkland are the properties on ‘The Street’, which forms the The principles of the landscape strategy have been incorporated into the boundaries to the south, east and west. southern edge of the village and is one of the oldest parts of Taverham. Landscape Masterplan shown on Figure 5. The dwellings here tend to have larger frontages, often with hedges or flint 4.1.4 Taverham itself occupies the slopes above the meandering ‘w’ formed by the knapped walls with tiled copings. The urban area extends to the north and 4.2.2 The landscape strategy takes into account local landscape and settlement River Wensum to the south. The village of Thorpe Marriott is immediately east where housing is more modern in character. character and associated guidelines, along with the visibility of the site. The to the north with Drayton immediately to the east, merging with Taverham aims of the landscape strategy are to minimise potential effects and create to form one urban area. The A1067 cuts through the centre of the village, 4.1.14 Taverham Hall School is located to the west of the proposed development opportunities for enhancement to ensure that the development is integrated connecting Fakenham to Norwich (which lies to the south-east of the village). site. The main school building was constructed in neo-Jacobean style in into the existing settlement and surrounding landscape. 1858. The other group of buildings within the school grounds are to the east Topography and Drainage of the site, on the site of the former Taverham Mill. 4.2.3 Key principles of the landscape strategy include:

4.1.5 The site gently slopes from north to south falling from approximately 16m 4.1.15 Historically, the Hall was accessed from the east drive (now known as the • The retention of the majority of existing vegetation in order to protect views AOD at the northern boundary with the main drive to around 9m AOD at the main drive) which would have provided visitors with glimpses of the hall and from the wider countryside. southernmost tip of the site. they progressed along it. More recent blocks of tree planting around the • A development of relatively low density incorporating six detached playing fields now restrict these long distance views. The main entrance to 4.1.6 The River Wensum, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of dwellings, all two storeys in height in order to match the surrounding the Hall today is from Ringland Road. Conservation, lies approximately 90m to the south of the site at its closest residential area of The Street. point. 4.1.16 The site itself is divorced from the setting of the Hall by a thick belt of trees • A well defined frontage treatment to the main drive, with houses set back to the west of the site. This has lessened the visual relationship of this area Land Use, Land Cover and Vegetation from the boundary. House frontage treatments should be simple, specifically of parkland with the Hall. open grass with timber post and rail boundary fencing to the roadside if 4.1.7 The irregular shaped site comprises of a single parcel of land which is further definition is required. maintained as mown grassland. 4.1.17 Constraints and Opportunities • Rear garden boundaries are to be created through hedgerows utilising 4.1.8 The site lies within Taverham Park, an area of ‘Historic Parkland’ (as 4.1.18 An analysis of the site and associated constraints and opportunities are native indigenous species. Where rear gardens meet the woodland designated by Broadland District Council). Much of the Historic Parkland is shown on Figure 4 and outlined below: boundaries, the hedgerows will strengthen and maintain the green parkland now under the plough or used as playing fields. However, a small portion of estate character, reducing glimpses of bright new fencing through the trees. the park still survives. • The site is located outside of the existing settlement boundary in an area of countryside. • The new access road through the development should reflect the existing 4.1.9 The setting of Taverham Park has been altered over the years with the rural country lanes / drives, with potential use of permeable surfacing to expansion of Taverham to the east, the establishment of the Wensum Hotel • Existing vegetation on all site boundaries provides visual amenity and enhance rural character. Golf and Country Club to the north and the encroachment of agricultural land screens and separates the site from the wider landscape. This vegetation to the south. These landscape changes mean that the parkland no longer should be retained and incorporated into the development wherever • Creation of internal breaks and interest with hedgerows and trees within the reads as belonging to a large estate. possible. developable area to ensure rural character is maintained and enhanced.

4.1.10 There are well-established broad belts of trees on the southern and eastern • Careful consideration should be given to the site access points in order to

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 9 • Species selection to fit with the local character and to promote biodiversity, helping stitch the site into the wider landscape.

4.3 Proposed Development

4.3.1 The proposal seeks for the provision of six dwellings with associated road layout, and hard and soft landscape.

Principles

4.3.2 The principles of the scheme are set out in the Design and Access Statement, Site Layout Plan and Landscape Masterplan, supported by the house types, and elevations accompanying the planning application.

4.3.3 As set out above, the scheme has been developed from a landscape-led approach informed by the landscape strategy. The main aspects of the development are:

• Widening of the existing private drive to at least 3.7m. The drive will be widened to 4.8m to the north of Plots 1 and 2. Two passing places are proposed on the main drive;

• The provision of a new access point from the main drive to Plots 3-6. Private drives will branch off the access road to plots;

• The provision of six, detached residential properties (three or four bedrooms);

• The retention and protection of the most valuable on-site and neighbouring trees; and

• Substantial areas of new planting as set out in the Landscape Masterplan.

Built Form

4.3.4 The built form incorporates three different house types. All houses are two storeys in height and have three or four bedrooms.

4.3.5 A simple range of vernacular materials is proposed comprising a mix of brick, timber boarding and slate tile roofs.

Landscape

4.3.6 The principles of the landscape scheme, including the retention of existing vegetation and new planting, hard landscaping and boundary treatments is set out on the Landscape Masterplan (refer to Figure 5). The principles of the scheme have been developed alongside the architectural and engineering information (including the drainage strategy) to ensure that the proposals are practical and achievable at the detailed design stage.

10 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Residential dwelling to the north Main drive leading to of the site Taverham Hall School

View A looking south east from the north western corner of the site

Residential dwellings to the north of the main drive

View B looking north from the south western corner of the site

Residential dwellings to the north of the main drive

View C looking north from the southern site boundary

Figure 3: Site Photographs A-C. Scale NTS@A3 Source: JBA Date of photograph: 07.04.2016

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 11 Mixed broadleaved trees with Silver birch group to the Residential dwellings to the interspersed Scots Pine west of the site north of the main drive

View D looking west from the south eastern site boundary Silver birch group to the Main drive leading to west of the site Taverham Hall School

View E looking west across the main parcel of land

Main drive leading to Residential dwelling Residential dwellings along The Taverham Hall School in Taverham Park Street

View F looking west along the main drive

Figure 3: Site Photographs D-F. Scale NTS@A3 Source: JBA Date of photograph: 07.04.2016

12 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk KEY

Site Boundary

Private Drive A

School Playing Fields

E School Playing Adjacent Residential Properties Fields

River Wensum SSSI/SAC

Site Photographs A-F (refer to Figure 3) B

D

F

C

PLANNING job Fleur Developments status HUDSONArchitects Taverham Hall, The Street, Taverham, revisions NORWICH address NR8 6HU - 04/07/17 Issued for Planning. 37 St Andrews Street NR2 4TP PROPOSED tel: 01603 766220 title LOCATION PLAN HOLT scale 1:1250@A3 date Unit 1 High Silver 35 High Street NR25 6BN tel: 01263 711853 LONDON N 70 Cowcross Street EC1M 6EJ www.hudsonarchitects.co.uk TAV PL-001 - [email protected] job reference drawing number revision 0m 25m 50m Do not scale off dimension. Check all dimensions on site PROPOSED LOCATION PLAN and report any apparent discrepancy to Architect DRAFTimmediately. This drawing is copyright.

Figure 4: Site Analysis (Landscape Constraints and Opportunities). Scale NTS@A3 Source: JBA, August 2017

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 13 LANDSCAPE DESIGN PRINCIPLES KEY Planning Application boundary The key principles of the landscape strategy as informed by an analysis of the site and its surrounding area include: Other land within client’s ownership

• The retention of the majority of existing vegetation in order to protect views from the school playing fields and the wider 02 HARD LANDSCAPE countryside. Surfaces:

• Developing and enhancing the site boundaries as nature 03 Private Drive, permeable concrete block paving, laid stretcher course in random sizes, conservation habitats for a range of locally occurring species. Indicative colour: burnt ochre Location of Pumping • A development of relatively low density incorporating six detached Station Minor Access, permeable concrete sett paving, laid stretcher course in random sizes, dwellings, two storeys in height. colour: harvest

• Additional landscape measures throughout the development including new tree and hedge planting will provide a green setting Paths to doors and patios, 450x450 concrete paving slabs, colour: Natural to the proposed development, enhance ecological connectivity 04 and visually integrate the development with the wider countryside. Existing Road

DESIGN PARAMETERS Residents permissive footpath, bark chippings. SOUTHERN LANDSCAPE BUFFER 01 A large area of land to the south of the residential units is Boundaries proposed to provide a buffer to soften and integrate the Timber post and rail fence buildings and adjacent properties into the landscape. Existing vegetation will be retained and enhanced with native buffer Close board timber fence, 1.8m planting.

Timber five bar gate with stile SITE FRONTAGE 02 The main entrance to the development has been designed SOFT LANDSCAPE to be in-keeping with the rural character of the surrounding Existing trees to be retained (refer to Tree Survey by A.T. Coombes Associates) landscape. The proposals include the retention of the majority of existing trees along the main drive, creating a continuous Native trees landscape boundary. The private drives of Plots 1 and 2 will comprise concrete setts. Ornamental and fruiting trees

PERMISSIVE FOOTPATH AND OPEN SPACES 03 A residents permissive footpath runs south from the main Domestic native hedge access road. The area is designed to be rural in character with

naturalized drifts of bulbs and a bark chippings path leading Woodland edge understorey buffer planting towards the River Wensum.

Vernacular herbaceous and shrub planting to front gardens RESIDENTIAL AREA 04 The design of the interior of the development is intended to 03 Front garden and amenity grass areas highlight the dwellings as new additions to the landscape whilst being sympathetic to the parkland setting. ‘Venetian’ timber Back garden, turf or seeded fences and domestic native hedgerows have been used to define boundaries, with a post and rail fence used to define the 01 • Existing grass verges to the south of the main drive to be retained; rear of Plots 3 - 6. Small trees, climbers on fences and a mix of • Bird and bat boxes to be provided (positions to be agreed); • Refer to Tree Constraints Plan and Tree Schedule for further information regarding existing vegetation in ornamental/herbaceous planting to the plot frontages will create accordance with BS5837:2012 ‘Trees in Relation to Construction;’ • Refer to Phase I Habitat Survey for information regarding existing habitats and species; structure and provide seasonal interest. The main access road • Refer to Detailed Soft Landscape Proposals for information regarding species and stock size; • For location of existing services and proposed drainage, refer to engineers information; will be surfaced in permeable concrete sett paving to provide an • All structural planting should use native species (of local provenance where possible). informal rural character.

Rev Initials Date Comments B LF 02.10.17 Amended to client comments received 02.10.17 Hard landscaping materials Proposed trees and hedges Ornamental planting A LF 22.09.17 Amended to client comments received 12.09.17 JBA 13/164-01 FigureLandscape 5: Hard Masterplan and Soft Landscape MasterplanClient Scale NTS@A3Site Fleur Developments Ltd Land off Private Drive to Source: JBA, September 2017Taverham Hall School Drawn by Date Scale Rev LF August 2017 1:500 @ A1 B James Blake Associates Ltd. LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE • LANDSCAPE PLANNING • ECOLOGY • ARBORICULTURE Permeable sett paving Jackson’s woven fence Natural slab paving Hornbeam Copper Beech Field Maple Liriope muscari Mahonia japonica Hydrangea arborescens The Black Barn, Hall Road, Lavenham, Suffolk, CO10 9QX Carpinus betulus Fagus sylvatica f. purpurea Acer campestre ‘Annabelle’ Tel. 01787 248216 E-mail. [email protected] Land14 | Land off Privateoff Private Drive Drive to to Taverham Taverham HallSchool, School, Norfolk Norfolk 5. LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT National Character 78. Central North Norfolk 5.1 Scope Area profile: Supporting documents

5.1.1 In accordance with National and Local guidance, this section considers the Key facts Landscape Analysis Introduction & Summary Description Opportunities existing landscape character of the site and its environs. and data change

5.1.2 The character of the landscape evolves over time as a result of the interaction of human activity and the natural environment (people and place). Factors used to assess landscape character include:

• Physical – geology, land-form, climate, soils, fauna and flora; 53

E2 • Cultural and Social – land-use, settlement, enclosure & history; C1 Reepham

D1 • Aesthetics – colour, texture, pattern, form and perception.

5.1.3 It should be noted that landscape is a continuum and character does not B1 generally change abruptly on the ground. More commonly, the character of A1 the landscape will change gradually and therefore the boundaries between E3 both Landscape Character Types (LCTs) and Landscape Character Areas D2 A1 (LCAs) should be considered to reflect zones of transition. A1

KEY 5.1.4 The published LCTs and LCAs from the national to local level within the study LCA A1

0 500 1,000 m This map is based on Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown Study Area Boundary copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. OS Licence Number 100018156 - 2007 S:\projects\11107301 Broadland LCA\GIS\Projects\11107301_LCAs\11107301_LCA_A1.mxd CHRIS BLANDFORD ASSOCIATES BROADLAND DISTRICT LANDSCAPE Landscape Character Area A1: www.cba.uk.net CHARACTER ASSESSMENT River Wensum River Valley area are shown on Figure 6 and are summarised in Table 1 below: MARCH 2008

Table 1: Hierarchy of Landscape Character Types and Character Areas National: National Character Area Profiles, Natural England, 2012 Plate 1: Hierarchy of Landscape Character Assessments National Character Area (NCA 78) Central North Norfolk 5.2 Landscape Baseline • Gravels, sands, chalk erratics and glacial till left behind by the retreating ice of Pleistocene glaciations, and the resulting complexity of soils, determine Regional: East of England Landscape Framework, Landscape East National natural vegetation patterns.

RLCT 8 RLCT 19 5.2.1 At the national level (Natural England, 2013) the study area lies within the www.naturalengland.org.uk • Physically dynamic coastline of geomorphological importance, providing Central North Norfolk National Character Area (NCA 78). a main source of sediment recharge elsewhere along the coast, with Forested Estate Sandlands Valley Meadowlands internationally important Pleistocene sediment and fossil deposits exposed 5.2.2 The Central North Norfolk National Character Area (NCA) stretches from the in eroding coastal cliffs. slightly flatter, more open land of the Mid Norfolk NCA, to the prominent District: Broadland Landscape Character Assessment (2003) 1 glacial landform of the Cromer Ridge. • Underlying chalk aquifer, small fast-flowing chalk rivers and biodiversity LCT A1 LCA E3 LCA D2 rich, wide, lush river valleys with wooded valley slopes, including the 5.2.3 Much of the NCA is ‘ancient countryside with a long-settled agricultural Urban Area internationally important chalk-fed River Wensum. character, where arable land is enclosed by winding lanes and hedgerows, River Wensum Spixworth Weston Green interspersed with woodland and remnant heath and dissected by lush pastoral • Tranquil agricultural landscape with extensive areas of arable land, river valleys. A patchwork of cultivated land, numerous church spires, distant District: South Norfolk Landscape Assessment (2001) dominated by cereals with break-cropping of sugar beet and oilseed rape, wooded horizons and big skies dominates the landscape’. and some pastures along valley floors.

LCA A4 5.2.4 Key characteristics of the Central North Norfolk NCA include: • Ancient countryside, much of it enclosed by the 16th century, with a LCA A3 sporadically rationalised patchwork field system, sinuous lanes and mixed • ‘A gently undulating, sometimes flat, landscape dissected by river valleys, Wensum Rural River Valley hedges with hedgerow oaks. Tud Rural River Valley with the glacial landform of the Cromer Ridge and dramatic coastal cliffs providing distinctive features to the north. • Relatively well-wooded landscape, with ancient oak and beech woodland

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 15 KEY

Site Boundary

District Boundary

Central North Norfolk National Character Area (NCA 78)

Broadland District Council Landscape Character Assessment

LCA A1: River Wensum

LCA E3: Spixworth

LCA D2: Weston Green

Urban Area

South Norfolk Landscape Character Assessment LCA A4: Wensum Rural River Valley

LCA A3: Tud Rural River Valley

N Figure 6: Landscape Character. Scale 1:20,000@A3 Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

16 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk and areas of conifer plantation. 5.2.12 At the district level (Broadland Landscape Character Assessment) the site areas to the north and east of the site. The river valley is tranquil. lies in a zone of transition between the River Valley LCT and the Urban • Important species, maritime cliff habitats and slopes, alkaline valley fen LCA A1 - River Wensum Valley Area of Norwich. The River Valley LCT is sub-divided into two Landscape communities and areas of remnant heathland. Character Areas (LCAs). The site lies within LCA A1: River Wensum. 5.2.15 The River Wensum LCA is described as an enclosed landscape flanked by • Large number of 18th-century estates with their associated parkland, and wooded rolling slopes, and to the north by gentler arable slopes. The valley 5.2.13 Key characteristics of the River Valley LCT include: a great density and stylistic variety of churches, which are often prominent floor comprises a tranquil, pastoral landscape with lowland grazing meadows features of the skyline. • ‘Distinct valley landform of flat valley flood plain and adjacent gently and marsh, which provide a strong sense of visual continuity along the river sloping valley sides; corridor. • Coherent vernacular architecture – marked by distinctive red brick and flint buildings with pantiled roofs, much dating from the 17th and 18th centuries • Strong presence of a river towards the centre of the floodplain; 5.2.16 The valley sides comprise ‘a patchwork of small scale arable fields with with some earlier timber frame – is an inherent component of the area’s pockets of pasture, often lined with hedgerow boundaries and hedgerow • Willow pollards and lines of poplar flanking ditches and watercourses on character. trees’. Woodland is a particularly characteristic feature of the area, often valley floor, plus areas of reeds, marshes, meadowland and leys; associated wih small copses along the course of the river. • A mix of villages and many farmhouses within a complex minor road • Grazing on the valley floor; network, with a traditional pattern of market towns connected by main 5.2.17 The area comprises a scattered settlement pattern with small villages often roads, the coastal holiday resorts of Cromer and Sheringham, and the city • Patchwork of small scale fields, often lined with strong hedgerow boundaries located on elevated land, close to river crossing points. The majority of the ofNorwich providing a centre for cultural and economic activity. and hedgerow trees; and blocks of woodland dotted along the valley sides; small villages throughout the valley have expanded during the 20th century due to their proximity to Norwich. • Dense network of public rights of way including the Peddars Way and • River crossings, fords and bridges, which provide landscape features Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, with main recreational activity centred within the valley corridor; South Norfolk Landscape Assessment and South Norfolk Local Landscape on coastal areas’. Designations Review • Remnants and reminders of historic settlement; (Natural England, 2012) 5.2.18 Given the proximity to the border with South Norfolk, the South Norfolk • Generally little development on the floodplain; Character Assessment and the South Norfolk Local Landscape Designations Regional • Settlements predominantly small and linear of strong vernacular character Review have also been considered. The site lies within close proximity to LCA 5.2.5 At the regional level (East of England Landscape Framework, Landscape with scattered farmsteads; A4 - Wensum Rural River Valley, part of the Rural River Valley Landscape East) the site is situated in a zone of transition on the borders of the Forested Character Type. Estate Sandlands and the Valley Meadowlands RLCTs. • Presence of characteristic ecological assemblages- including wetland vegetation, wet meadows and pastures.’ 5.2.19 Key characteristics of the Rural River Valley LCT include: 5.2.6 Forested Estate Sandlands are described as ‘a relatively simple landscape • ‘Distinct valley landform created by glacial and fluvial activity, with wide comprising extensive areas of conifer plantations, arable land and 5.2.14 Distinctive local features include: flat valley floodplains, which create important divisions within the district some remnant heaths, reflecting the underlying sandy soils’. Land use is • Fakenham Road, also known as the A1067, a busy route between Fakenham landscape. predominantly arable with substantial areas of commercial forestry. and Norwich; • Semi-enclosed landscape with long views within the valley but restricted 5.2.7 Population is sparse and largely concentrated in nucleated villages that are • Narrow village roads and winding lanes with passing places, often following views from the valley, creating occasional areas of more intimate character. surrounded by notable scattering of estate farmsteads. There are no major the meandering River Wensum with bridge crossings providing views of the conurbations or urban fringe influences within the RLCT. river and lush river margins; • Perceived presence of a river that is often not actually visible within the landscape but which at close-range is seen to be attractive, of significant 5.2.8 The Valley Meadowlands RLCT is described as an ‘flat, low lying valley floors • Taverham Hall estate has influenced the village with features such as brick size and distinct character. supporting a pastoral land use, associated with notable watercourses/rivers’. boundary walls and parkland landscape; • Willow pollards and lines of poplar flanking ditches and watercourses on 5.2.9 Land use is predominantly pastoral with some areas of arable and gravel • Dwellings are a mix of Victorian properties and modern dwellings, often the valley floor, plus reeds and marsh in areas. extraction. red brick; • Attractive river crossings including fords and old bridges approached by 5.2.10 The landscape is generally unsettled although occasional mill buildings often • There is a lack of Public Rights of Way (PRoW) through the village with sunken lanes. provide local built features. Urban settlements in surrounding areas often reliance upon the road network for connections. The proximity to the centre impinge on the RLCT. of Norwich by car has potentially had an influence in this respect; and • Areas of pastoral floodplain predominantly grazed by cattle, set within the arable landscape that occupies the valley sides. 5.2.11 These landscape types are generic to a large area of East Anglia and are not • The River Wensum defines the landscape type with many woodland blocks described further. and tree belts. Strong woodlands and wide river reaches with linked ponds • Historic quality to areas within the valley landscape due to the presence of visual reminders of the valleys’ settled past, particularly the earthworks District create a lush river valley, creating a feeling of isolation from the urban

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 17 at Venta lcenorum, watermills, historic river crossings and round-towered 5.2.23 The built environment, in the immediate vicinity of the site, is quite eclectic ººSupport and promote characteristic individual hedgerow management churches. with a mix of dwelling ages and styles, from Victorian terracing to detached and other features which define character of large estates modern properties ººPlan for future pressures from urban-related development, major roads • Settlements predominantly small and nucleated of strong vernacular and general industrial development.’ character with scattered farmsteads on the valley floor or linear settlements 5.2.24 Typically along the The Street, these dwellings forming the outskirts of the at the valley side crest, with a few large towns of ‘market town’ quality village, tend to have larger frontages, often with hedges or flint knapped 5.3.3 Key priorities for RLCT 19 - Valley Meadowlands include: distinct to the Waveney. walls with tiled copings defining public to private spaces. Many frontages are • Protect and enhance green infrastructure and key wildlife corridors: open grass with shrubs. The Street is a narrow lane serving these properties • Characteristic vernacular architecture particularly including red brick ºSeek opportunities to enhance green infrastructure created by the river only, perhaps historically having been the main street to the village, now º and Dutch gable ends, windmills, weather-boarded watermills and round valleys (e.g. create hedgerow and woodland connections on the valley replaced by the Fakenham Road, A1067. towered churches. sides) ººCreate and enhance key strategic green infrastructure and opportunities • Presence of characteristic ecological assemblages, uncommon or unfound 5.3 Landscape Management Guidelines for public access by creating linkages between existing public footpaths elsewhere in the district, including wetland vegetation, heathland and wet and settlements and the trails and paths which run through or bisect this meadows/pastures.’ National: NCA Statements of Environmental Opportunity LCT LCA A4 - Wensum Rural River Valley 5.3.1 Statements of Environmental Opportunity for the Central North Norfolk ººManage and improve sustainable public access so as to avoid adverse Character Area (NCA 78) of relevance to the proposal include: impacts upon agricultural management, landscape, habitats and wildlife 5.2.20 Key characteristics of the Wensum Rural River Valley include: ººPromote water-born access through canoe trails and other sustainable • SEO 2: Maintain, enhance and restore priority habitats including woodlands, means where appropriate.’ • ‘Wide valley form occurring outside of the District boundary; areas of remnant heathland, and the nationally and internationally important Norfolk Valley Fens, chalk river systems (including the River Wensum) County: Broadland Landscape Character Assessment • Presence of extensive flooded gravel pits arising from former extraction of and maritime cliff habitats. Seek opportunities to connect fragmented sand and gravels; habitats, improving the area for biodiversity and recreation, and enhancing 5.3.4 Inherent landscape sensitivities identified for the River Wensum Valley LCA include: • Small areas of paddock and grazing, generally associated with the outskirts landscape character and resilience to climate change. For example, by: of settled areas; ººSeeking opportunities to link fragmented habitats with other semi-natural • ‘Natural meandering course of the River Wensum (SSSI/SAC) and habitats to enable species to move in response to climate change. associated floodplain habitats provide a valuable biodiversity resource. • Large areas of deciduous woodland blocks on the valley sides and distinctive poplar avenues on the valley floor contributing to a wooded Regional: East of England Landscape Framework • Mature landscape structure including substantial blocks of woodland, naturalistic valley character; 5.3.2 Key priorities for RLCT 8 - Forested Estate Sandlands include: mature trees, intact hedgerows and riparian vegetation on the valley floor forming a distinct mosaic of meadow and marsh habitats, including • Important wetland habitats especially the River Wensum that has been • ‘Protect and enhance the woodland resource and develop a balance between extensive reedbeds. designated as a SSSI; tree planting initiatives and the reversion of woodland to heathland: • Areas of open lowland grazing meadows and marsh combined with large • Settled valley (particularly outside of the District) including the Strong ººConserve semi-natural woodland areas where they form skyline features mixed blocks of woodland, scattered scrub and groves of willow, form linear settlement of Costessey that follows a meander of the Wensum, and particularly adjacent to main river valleys such as the Nar and Stiffkey. strong patterns and contrasting textures, which contribute to a distinctive the new mixed development at Queens Hills; ººPromote selective removal of some less appropriate shelterbelt species and replace with species that are consistent with the traditional charac- corridor of open space that leads to the northwestern part of Norwich. • Historic, sunken lanes meander through the valley; ter of the lanes • Distinctive character of small villages, comprising buildings that reflect use • Brick-based architecture including elements of Cosseyware – fine ººEnhance wildlife corridors through increasing the connectivity of small of locally sourced materials. decorative brick work produced in Costessey at the turn of the century. woodland blocks and identify areas where introduction of short-rotation • Landscape setting of historic churches, mills and manors. Generally lacking the rural vernacular appeal of valleys more distant from coppice could help link and extend existing woodland sites. Norwich; • Protect local identity, (e.g. estate character and use of vernacular) and • Idyllic pastoral landscape character of the valley floor with meadows, marshes and woodland, contributes to a strongly recognisable sense of • Presence of Mariott’s Way recreational path.’ preserve the sense of tranquillity ººPromote local design guidance for new development place. Settlement Character ººPromote the adoption of vernacular building materials, (e.g. carstone • Strong sense of intimacy and tranquillity along the river valley floor, which and flint) in developments 5.2.21 The village of Taverham lies on the north bank of the River Wensum , with is sensitive to incremental small-scale change. ººPromote the improvement and upgrading of existing holiday develop- views possible both up and down stream. ment in keeping with local vernacular • Its strength of character and unity.’ 5.2.22 The A1067 cuts through the centre of the village, connecting Fakenham in the ººDevelopment within villages should conserve and enhance their 5.3.5 The overall landscape management guideline for the LCA is to create. north west to the centre of Norwich to the south east of the village. nucleated character and street patterns and retain important views, (e.g. to local landmarks such as church towers) Specific landscape management actions include:

18 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk • ‘Seek to conserve the generally undeveloped, rural character of the area 5.3.7 ‘Any development permitted within the area should respect the character of overleaf. The table should be read in conjunction with Tables B1 and B3 in county wildlife sites, and related strong sense of intimacy and tranquillity. the Wensum Rural River Valley and should conserve the existing landscape Appendix B setting out the criteria used to determine sensitivity to change. assets. In particular it should include reference to the following: • Seek to ensure the sensitive location of development involving tall structures (such as telecommunication masts and wind turbines for • Prevent linear expansion of Costessey along the River Wensum; example) in relation to prominent skyline locations both within the area and • Respect the character of Costessey and prevent loss of identity through within adjacent character areas. merging with other proximate settlements (e.g. New Costessey); • Seek to conserve the landscape setting of existing villages, such as • Resist infill or extension development which does not respond positively to Lenwade, Morton and Ringland; the landscape context and existing character; • Seek to maintain greenspace between villages and the edge of Norwich • Respond positively to the remaining vernacular context and the unique urban area; character of the decorative brickwork present in some buildings; • Seek to conserve the landscape setting of historic churches, mills and • Maintain a strategic gap between Costessey, and Queens Hills to prevent halls, such as Merton and Weston; settlement coalescence; • Seek to conserve sense of openness, in places where long views can be • Maintain the predominantly rural character of the area and the network of seen along the valley floor; historic sunken lanes; • Seek to ensure that potential new small-scale development within the • Consider the impact of any development upon views to the River Wensum’.’ villages is consistent with existing settlement pattern, density and traditional built form; 5.4 Landscape Receptors • Seek to ensure that potential new developments comprise a fully integrated landscape and urban design strategy, which is consistent with the local 5.4.1 The following landscape elements and characteristics (in no particular order) landscape character and screen potential harsh settlement edges. have been identified as potential receptors of landscape effects of the site at land off the private drive to Taverham School, Norwich: • Seek to promote use of local materials in new buildings; • The site incorporating: • Seek to maintain and enhance green corridors, which separate built up ººTopography; areas, such the corridor of the River Wensum where it flows into Norwich. ººLand use; • Seek to create a semi-natural habitats to buffer the River Wensum (SAC).’ ººExisting vegetation; and ººThe overall character of the site; County: South Norfolk Landscape Character Assessment • The setting of Grade II Listed Taverham Hall; 5.3.6 Sensitivities and Vulnerabilities for the Wensum Rural River Valley LCA include: • The setting of the Grade I Listed Parish Church of St Edmund;

• ‘Threat of urbanising trends causing Costessey to lose it’s ‘village’ character • The setting of the Historic Parkland around Taverham Hall; and unattractive linear sprawl at the edge of the settlement; • The River Wensum SSI and SAC;

• Further suburbanisation of roads and village edges; • The character of the River Wensum Landscape Character Area; and

• Increased provision of new road infrastructure associated with the Queens • The settlement character of Taverham. Hills development and associated noise and visual intrusion into the valley; 5.4.2 Although in close proximity to the site, the Conservation Area of Drayton • Loss of wooded character of the Wensum Valley and the distinctive variety and its associated Listed Buildings are considered not to be affected by the of woodlands which create diversity within the landscape; proposed development due to the intervening built up environment of the • Deterioration of the River Wensum and its valuable ecology as a result of village and substantial areas of woodland. development or management practices that would affect its settings or the 5.4.3 Snake Wood, an area of ancient woodland approximately 460m west of the quality of its water, including run off from urban areas; site is also considered to be unaffected by the development.

• Loss of views to the River.’ 5.4.4 An assessment of Landscape Receptor sensitivity is described in Table 2

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 19 Table 2: Summary of Landscape Receptors and Sensitivity

Receptor Value Susceptibility Description Sensitivity

Site features Topography Low Low The site is relatively flat with a slight fall from north to south from approximately 16m AOD at the northern Low boundary to 9m AOD in the southernmost tip of the site. The landform is unlikely to change significantly as a result of development. Land use Medium Medium The irregular shaped site comprises a single field which is currently unused. The wider landscape is largely Medium flat, open farmland most often used for grazing within the floodplain and arable crop production elsewhere.

On-site Vegetation Medium Medium The site boundaries to the south, east and west are well vegetated, providing good visual screening. The Medium existing trees around the site peripheries will help to integrate the site into the surrounding rural landscape and there is scope to retain and integrate this vegetation into the proposed development. Notable trees include three English Oak of BS Category A value (shown as T22, T23 and T29 on the tree survey). The majority of existing vegetation is of moderate to low arboricultural value (BS Category B or C) (refer to arboricultural report by A.T. Coombes Associates Ltd for details). The overall Medium Medium The proposed site is green field land within the grounds of Taverham Hall School. The site is a single, irregularly Medium Character of the shaped field enclosed by trees to the south, east and west. The site is bound to the north by the private access Site track, to the east and south by a small area of woodland and to the west by further woodland with playing fields associated with Taverham Hall School beyond. There are no landscape designations covering the site.

Off-site features Off-site vegetation Medium Medium Off-site vegetation within the grounds of Taverham Hall School provides good screening to the site in local Medium views. Designations The setting of High Medium The setting of Listed Buildings is regarded as important; however these buildings are not directly effected by High Grade II Listed the proposed development and are visually screened by layers of intervening vegetation. Listed Buildings are Taverham Hall subject to statutory protection and their sensitivity to change is generally High. The setting of the High Medium High Grade I Listed Parish Church of St Edmund The setting of the High Medium The site is in an area designated as ‘Historic Parkland/Historic Gardens’ in the Broadland District Council High Historic Parkland Development Management DPD and is protected under Policy EN2 which states that, in order to protect the around Taverham character of the area, development proposals should consider the impact on as well as seek to protect and Hall School enhance where appropriate Historic Parks and Gardens. The River Wensum High Low The River Wensum (a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation) lies Medium SSSI and SAC approximately 90m to the south of the site at its closest point. The sensitivity is considered to be Medium as there is potential to accommodate the proposed development without affecting the baseline situation. Landscape Character The character of High Medium The Broadland District Landscape Character Assessment identifies the River Wensum LCA is assessed as High the River Wensum having a High sensitivity to change with policies to conserve features that are essential in contributing to LCA local distinctiveness and sense of place.

Settlement Medium Low The proposed site is located to the south west of Taverham within the grounds of Taverham Hall School. Low Character of Properties in the village are of varying ages and styles, mostly detached and fronting onto the road. The Taverham existing settlement edge is well integrated with the surrounding landscape by roadside tree planting. The site is enclosed to the south, east and west by woodland trees with further woodland tree cover beyond the private access road to the north.

20 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk 5.5 Landscape Effects off-site vegetation will be Minor Adverse. used where possible.

5.5.1 The assessment of landscape effects during construction and after completion 5.5.8 The overall character of the site will permanently change from an unused 5.5.14 In summary, there will be a temporary site wide disturbance during the (Year 1 and Year 15) on the landscape resource identified in the baseline field to a construction site. Uncharacteristic components will be introduced construction phase. However the change from the existing baseline conditions study is set out in Table 3 and are described below. alongside characteristic features or elements. There will be a noticeable, in most cases is assessed as low or medium. As such, during construction temporary and localised Moderate Adverse on the site and its surrounding the majority of the landscape effects of the proposed development are Minor 5.5.2 The tables should be read in conjunction with the criteria for determining area. Adverse or Negligible with a Moderate Effect on the setting of Taverham the magnitude of change in Appendix C: Table C1, the matrix of scale of Park and No Effect on the setting of Grade II Listed Taverham Hall or the 5.5.9 Grade II Listed Taverham Hall and the Grade I Listed Parish Church of importance in Appendix C: Table C3 and the methodology described in Grade I Listed Parish Church of St Edmund. Section 2.0 of this report. St Edmund are separated from the site by distance and layers of mature intervening vegetation. There are no long distance vistas and or sight lines Permanent Development and Effects at Year 1 / Year 15 Construction and Temporary Effects that would be affected from either asset as the proposed site is totally 5.5.15 The principles of the Landscape Strategy have been developed from the enclosed from views. Therefore, the proposed development will have No 5.5.3 During the construction phase, impacts on landscape components within key constraints and opportunities of the site and its surrounding landscape Effect on the setting of these heritage assets. the site will result from direct changes in land use, vegetation clearance for context and are inherently landscape led. access and alterations to the existing topography. This will occur alongside 5.5.10 The site lies within an area of Historic Parkland (as identified in the 5.5.16 The layout of the proposed development responds to the topography of the the provision of temporary infrastructure such as access, site compounds and Broadland District DPD). Construction activities will introduce some localised site. It is assumed that the design will be graded into the surrounding levels parking; the storage of materials; erection of temporary fencing/hoardings; uncharacteristic components to the landscape, however the existing and that finished floor levels of buildings subsequently will not alter the the use of operational plant; and general construction works. All are boundary vegetation which gives the site a sense of enclosure will be surrounding levels resulting in a Negligible effect on completion. uncharacteristic features of the landscape, but will generally be temporary retained. As highlighted in Section 4, the setting of the parkland has been and short-term. All construction works will be carried out in full accordance compromised in recent years with the expansion of the village to the east 5.5.17 There will be a permanent change in land use from greenfield land, to a with best practice to avoid, reduce or limit the extent of effects as far as and the encroachment of agricultural land to the south. The setting of the construction site, to a high quality development including the residential possible. parkland is further compromised by the residential properties within the park dwellings and associated gardens. This will result in a permanent Moderate to the north of the Site. During the construction phase the scale of effect on 5.5.4 Throughout the site there will be a temporary disturbance of the existing Adverse scale of effect on land use at the site level. the setting of the Historic Parkland will be Moderate Adverse. ground levels arising from the removal and storage of topsoil and excavation 5.5.18 The loss of trees in order to accommodate the proposed development will be for roads, foundations, services and drainage. The scale of the effect on the 5.5.11 The River Wensum (SSSI and SAC) lies approximately 90m to the south of mitigated by additional planting within the site boundaries. Initially the effect topography of the site will be temporary Minor Adverse. the site. Hoardings and other forms of fencing will protect the vegetation of this planting will be limited and the scale of effect will be Negligible, as the along the course of the river and partially screen the works. Construction 5.5.5 The proposed development will result in a permanent change in land use. The planting matures the scale of effect will increase to reach Minor Beneficial activities will be at some distance from the river, beyond a buffer of open unused greenfield land will be replaced with a temporary construction site. by Year 15. space. During the construction phase there will be No Effect. There will be a localised extent of change to land use within the site boundary 5.5.19 Post-construction there will be no further impact on off-site vegetation. The which will partially alter the character of the site. This change will result in a 5.5.12 The site sits on the edge of the River Wensum LCA and forms a minor scale of effect will be Negligible with No Effect to the trees beyond the permanent Moderate Adverse scale of effect at the site level. part of it. In terms of character the site has mature, treed boundaries, eastern site boundary. characteristic of the wider LCA. The site will permanently change from an 5.5.6 In order to implement the proposal it will be necessary to remove seven unused field to a construction site, introducing uncharacteristic components 5.5.20 Although the site will permanently change from a field to a residential individual trees and one tree group (shown as T15, T38, T39, T83, T84, T85 resulting in a noticeable change to a small part of the Landscape Character development, the design, scale, layout and landscape of the proposed and G5 on the Tree Protection Plan prepared by A.T. Coombes Associates Area. Construction activities including the location and arrangement of development respects the character of the surrounding landscape. The scale Ltd). These trees are considered to be of moderate to low arboricultural access, compounds and parking; storage of materials; temporary fencing of effect on the overall character of the site will be Moderate Adverse at Year value (BS Categories B and C). The scale of effect to on-site vegetation will and hoardings; operational plant; and construction of buildings and hard 1, decreasing to Minor Adverse by Year 15 as proposed vegetation matures, therefore be Moderate Adverse. All trees to be retained shall be protected landscape will have a Minor Adverse scale of effect on the wider LCA. helping to integrate the development into the surrounding landscape. during construction in accordance with best practice (BS5837:2012). This will involve the use of protective fencing or other methods appropriate to 5.5.13 Construction activities will introduce some localised uncharacteristic 5.5.21 The site boundaries are well vegetated to the south, east and west which safeguard the root protection areas of retained trees. components to the character of the settlement of Taverham. The site lies to creates a sense separation between the site and the wider landscape. As the south west of the town with views largely restricted to the near distance. such, the completed development will have No Effect on the setting of Grade 5.5.7 There will be no development within the root protection areas of the trees The presence of temporary hoardings will be localised in their extent and will II Listed Taverham Hall or the Grade I Listed Parish Church of St Edmund. within the tree belt beyond the eastern site boundary. Therefore, there will not be visible from outside of the site boundaries. Construction traffic will use be No Effect on these trees. Facilitative pruning will be needed along the 5.5.22 The setting of Taverham Hall Parkland is already compromised by the the main drive. Given the isolated location of the site and the low nature and main drive in order to provide sufficient clearance for traffic and construction downgrading of the main drive, which now only serves a few residential localised extent of the change construction activities will not fundamentally works. The widening of the main drive will have a minor encroachment dwellings, along with 20th century development along The Street andwithin alter the character of the settlement. For this reason the scale of effect during into the RPA of the trees adjacent to the existing access road, and will be the parkland. The site no longer plays an integral role within the parkland or the construction phase is assessed as Negligible. Local materials should be addressed by carrying out pre-emptive root pruning. The scale of effect on

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 21 setting of the Hall. Development has been pulled away from site boundaries in order to retain woodland setting, the resulting scale of effect will be Negligible at Year 1 with no further change.

5.5.23 A landscape buffer area to the south of the development will retain the separation between the River Wensum SSI and SAC. Post-construction there will be No Effect.

5.5.24 The site is a minor part of the River Wensum LCA and the change resulting from the proposed development will be localised. The scale of effect in the context of the character area post-construction will be Negligible.

5.5.25 The scale of the development is consistent with the existing settlement pattern. The design of the dwellings in conjunction with hard and soft landscape, through good design will ensure that the proposals will be well integrated with the existing settlement character of Taverham. The effect on the settlement character of Taverham is therefore Negligible at Year 1 with no further change.

5.5.26 In summary, the permanent residential development responds well to its landscape context and incorporates measures in order to integrate the development into its surroundings. The majority of residual effects will be Negligible.

22 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Table 3: Summary of Landscape Effects Receptor Sensitivity Development Phase Magnitude of Change Scale of Importance size/scale: extent: Site features

Topography Low Construction Medium Negative Temporary Minor Adverse

Completion Year 1 Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 15 Negligible Negligible

Land use Medium Construction Medium Negative Permanent Moderate Adverse

Completion Year 1

Completion Year 15

Existing vegetation Medium Construction Medium Negative Moderate Adverse

Completion Year 1 Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 15 Low Positive Minor Beneficial

The overall Medium Construction Medium Negative Temporary Moderate Adverse Character of the Site

Completion Year 1 Medium Negative Moderate Adverse decreasing to Minor Adverse Completion Year 15 Low Negative over time

Off-site features

Off-site vegetation Medium Construction Low Negative to None Minor Adverse to No Effect

Completion Year 1 Negligible to None Negligible to No Effect

Completion Year 15 Negligible to None Negligible to No Effect

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 23 Table 3: Summary of Landscape Effects continued

Receptor Sensitivity Development Phase Magnitude of Change Scale of Importance size/scale: extent: Designations

The setting of Grade II Listed High Construction None No Effect Taverham Hall Completion Year 1 None No Effect

Completion Year 15 None No Effect

The setting of the Grade I Listed High Construction None No Effect Parish Church of St Edmund Completion Year 1 None No Effect

Completion Year 15 None No Effect

The setting of the Historic Parkland High Construction Low Negative Moderate Adverse around Taverham Hall School Completion Year 1 Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 15 Negligible Negligible

The River Wensum SSSI and SAC Construction None No Effect

Completion Year 1 None No Effect

Completion Year 15 None No Effect

Landscape Character

The character of the River Wensum High Construction Low Negative Minor Adverse LCA Completion Year 1 Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 15 Negligible Negligible

Settlement Character Low Construction Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 1 Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 15 Negligible Negligible

24 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk 6. VISUAL ASSESSMENT ººResidents of Taverham Park; and ººUsers of Taverham Hall School

6.1 Scope • Other Users: ººUsers of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve 6.1.1 The following section examines the visibility of the site from the surrounding area. This appraisal is based on a manual assessment of topography and 6.2.8 This includes receptors within the secondary visual envelope where views aerial images which have then been refined by the field survey. are predominantly glimpsed or filtered by intervening vegetation and development and as such the proposal is likely to form a minor aspect of the 6.1.2 The visual envelope demonstrates the extent of potential visibility to or from a views currently experienced. specific area. The approximate visibility of the site is demonstrated in Figure 8 and Representative Views 1-10. 6.2.9 GLVIA3 places emphasis on assessing visual effects on public areas and viewpoints, rather than individual private residential properties; however, 6.2 Visual Baseline it is acknowledged that residents may be particularly sensitive to changes in their visual amenity. As part of this assessment the combined effects 6.2.1 The location of the site, the local topography and vegetation determine the on a number of different groups of residential properties within the visual primary visual envelope to within a short distance of the site. envelope have been considered to assess the effect on the community as a whole. When considering views from groups of properties, views from ground 6.2.2 In the near distance the primary visual envelope extends a short distance floor windows and garden space (which are occupied during waking/daylight along the main drive to the east and west and also incorporates a small area hours) are considered to be the most sensitive. It should be noted that in to the north where. There may also be private, glimpsed views from the three planning terms there is not a private right to a view residential properties within Taverham Park to the north of the main drive. 6.2.3 The secondary visual envelope extends a short distance to the south into 6.3 Representative Views Taverham Mills Nature Reserve where glimpsed views into the site are possible. 6.3.1 Within the study area a number of representative and illustrative views of the site have been selected to demonstrate the existing visual amenity and the 6.2.4 In long distance views from the south the site is not visible due to distance change likely to be experienced. The viewpoint locations have been chosen and layers of intervening vegetation. These areas lie outside of the visual based on distance, the degree of visibility, the nature of the view and the envelope. anticipated number or type of potential receptors. Views are classified as either: 6.2.5 The extent of each view, the proportion of the site that is visible and the visual amenity changes according to the location and direction of the viewpoint. • Near Distance (0-0.5km)

Visual Receptors • Middle Distance Views (0.5-1km)

6.2.6 The visual receptors and an assessment of their sensitivity are described in • Long Distance Views (1-2km) Table 4 below. The table should be read in conjunction with Section 2.0 and Tables B1 and B4 in Appendix B setting out the criteria used to determine 6.3.2 All photographs were taken in April 2016 and demonstrate a near worst case sensitivity to change. scenario when vegetation was in partial leaf.

6.2.7 Within the visual envelope, visual receptors i.e. those individuals who will 6.3.3 A number of illustrative views (Views 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 and 10) have been see the site and may experience a change in their view as a result of the included to demonstrate that the site is not visible. These are primarily proposed development have been identified as follows: located to the south of the site.

• Users of roads: 6.3.4 For each viewpoint the visual receptors are identified and their sensitivity ººCostessey Road; assessed. The effects of the proposed development are then subsequently ººTaverham Lane; described and assessed. ººRingland Road; and ººPoethlyn Drive.

• Residential and Other Properties: ººResidents of The Street;

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 25 Table 4 - Summary of Visual Receptors and Assessment of Sensitivity

Visual Receptor VP Value Susceptibility Description Sensitivity to proposed development Users of roads: Users of Costessey Road 1 Medium/Low Low Users include both motorists and pedestrians. Access to the site is Low along the main drive off Costessey Road. Views towards the main part of the site are restricted by vegetation within Taverham Park and the grounds of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve. Users of Taverham Lane 5 Medium/Low Low Users are predominantly motorists who will be concentrating on the Low road ahead. The route is a rural lane with no footpath. Views towards the site are restricted by roadside vegetation. Users of Ringland Road 9 Medium/Low Low Users are predominantly motorists who will be concentrating on the Low road ahead. The route is a rural lane with no footpath. Views towards the site are largely restricted by roadside vegetation. Users of Poethlyn Drive 10 Medium/Low Low Users include both motorists and pedestrians. The site is at some Low distance and is barely discernible from Poethlyn Drive.

Residential and other properties:

Residents of The Street Not Medium Medium Residents of The Street will have varying views of the site from Medium available their properties and rear gardens. The views will be important to the individuals concerned and appreciated on a daily basis but are largely restricted to upper storey windows. Residents of Taverham Park 2 Medium Medium to High Residents of the three properties within Taverham Park to the north of Medium the main drive will have varying views of the site from their properties and front gardens. The views will be important to the individuals concerned and appreciated on a daily basis. Only one of the three properties has clear views from first floor windows, the other two properties view of the site is only partially visible through the existing mature trees and well vegetated landscape. The sensitivity is considered Medium and the majority of properties only have glimpsed views towards the site. Users of Taverham Hall School 3, 4 Medium Low Users of Taverham School will have glimpsed views of the site from Low the school grounds. Users of the school are likely to be focused on the particular activity in which they are taking part and therefore have a Low sensitivity to change. Other Users:

Users of Taverham Mills Nature 6, 7, 8 Medium High Users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve and Fishery will have glimpsed High Reserve views of the site through layers on intervening vegetation. Users of the Nature Reserve are likely to be focused on the wider landscape and therefore have a High sensitivity to change.

26 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk KEY

Site Boundary

Topography

0 - 10m

10 - 20m

20 - 30m

30 - 40m

50 - 60m

Principal Watercourses

Main Roads

Areas of Significant Vegetation

N Figure 7: Landform Analysis Plan. Scale 1:20,000@A3 Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 27 KEY

Site Boundary

Primary visual envelope

Secondary visual envelope

Representative Viewpoints (refer to Viewpoints 1-10)

3 2 1 4

8 7 6

9

10

N Figure 8: Visual Analysis Plan. Scale NTS@A3 Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

28 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Approximate extent of site

Entrance to Taverham Mills Main drive leading to nature reserve Taverham Hall School Costessey Road The Street

6.3.5 VIEWPOINT 1 View of site access from Costessey Road Visual Receptors

Baseline Description • Users of Costessey Road

Strong vegetation within the grounds of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve Visual Effects screens all views towards the main parcel of land from this point. Open views Construction activities are at some distance and will be screened by along the length of the main drive are possible from this point with houses intervening vegetation surrounding the site. Works to improve access to the along The Street and within the grounds of Taverham Park also visible. site will not be visible from this point. As such, there are No Visual Effects from this viewpoint.

1

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 11m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 8m OS grid reference: 616052, 313871

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 29 Approximate extent of site Residential property within Main drive Taverham Park

6.3.6 VIEWPOINT 2

View west along the main drive Visual Receptors

Baseline Description • Residents of Taverham Park

In this near distance view looking west along the main drive there are Visual Effects during Construction glimpsed views towards the site through layers of intervening vegetation. This view represents a worst case scenario in terms of visual screening; the There will be oblique views of construction activities from this point on the site will be less visible in summer when vegetation is in full leaf. A residential main drive. In the short term, there will be site wide disturbance of existing property within the park is clearly visible to the north of the main drive and is ground levels arising from removal/storage of topsoil, excavation for particularly prominent due do its red tile roof. Residents of properties within foundations, roads, services and drainage. Overall there will be a noticeable Taverham Park are likely to use the main drive to access their properties. change to the view as the site changes from unused land to a construction site. The magnitude of change to residents of Taverham Park using the main drive will be Medium Negative.

Residents of Taverham Park will have glimpsed views of construction activities, partially screened by existing vegetation. The magnitude of change during construction will be Medium to Low Negative depending on distance and levels of intervening vegetation. 2 Visual Effects of Permanent Development and Specific Mitigation

There may be some distant, glimpsed views of rooftops on the northern site boundary; these would be slightly more evident in winter, although the use of dark and local vernacular materials will minimize their prominence.

The magnitude of change to residents of Taverham Park will be Medium to Low Negative at Year 1, decreasing to Low Negative at Year 15 as proposed planting matures.

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 14m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 0m OS grid reference: 615711, 313924

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

30 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Approximate extent of site Residential property within Taverham Park Main drive

6.3.7 VIEWPOINT 3

Looking east towards the site from the main drive Visual Receptors

Baseline Description • Users of Taverham Hall School

This near distance view is taken from the main drive, near to the cricket pitch Visual Effects during Construction and pavilion, well utilised by the school. The site is barely discernible from Construction activities are in close proximity but the majority will be screened this point and is screened by intervening woodland, which does contain a by the existing vegetation to the west of the site. The magnitude of change to proportion of evergreen species. A residential property is just visible through users of Taverham Hall School will be Low Negative to Negligible. the trees to the north of the main drive. Visual Effects of Permanent Development and Specific Mitigation

The permanent development will be barely discernible from this point and will be largely screened by intervening vegetation. There may be glimpsed views of the development through gaps in the existing vegetation, particularly in winter.

Given the distance from the site and the extent of vegetation along the western 3 boundary to be retained the magnitude of change will be Low Negative to Negligible at Year 1 with no further change. Proposed understorey planting along the western site boundary will help to gap up the existing vegetation. At Year 15 the magnitude of change will be Negligible.

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 8m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 385m OS grid reference: 548540, 161044

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432 Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 31 Approximate extent of site

Main drive

6.3.8 VIEWPOINT 4 Visual Receptors Looking east from Taverham Hall forecourt • Users of Taverham Hall School Baseline Description Visual Effects This is taken from the forecourt of Taverham Hall, looking eastwards down the main drive towards the proposed development site. The view is of a typical There are no visual effects from this viewpoint. parkland estate with grassland and mature trees. The main drive is lined along its southern edge with regularly spaced mature trees. Woodland forms the horizon line and the site cannot be identified, being totally screened from view.

4

2

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 25m Date + time of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 450m OS grid reference: 615117, 313792

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

32 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Approximate extent of site

Taverham Mills Nature Reserve (beyond fence line) Taverham Lane

6.3.9 VIEWPOINT 5

View west from Taverham Lane Visual Receptors • Users of Taverham Lane Baseline Description Visual Effects In this near distance view from Taverham Lane the site is not visible through layers of intervening vegetation along the roadside and within the grounds There are no visual effects from this viewpoint. of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve. Views will be less open in summer when vegetation is in full leaf.

5

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 15m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 250m OS grid reference: 615953, 313585

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432 Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 33 Approximate extent of site

Taverham Hall School

6.3.10 VIEWPOINT 6

View north west from Taverham Mills Nature Reserve Visual Receptors

Baseline Description • Users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve

View 6 is representative of users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve. The Visual Effects area is well-wooded and the site is not discernible amongst the surrounding woodland. The turrets of Taverham Hall School are just visible amongst There are no visual effects from this viewpoint. surrounding vegetation to the west. Views will be less open in winter when deciduous vegetation is in full leaf.

6

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 8m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 300m OS grid reference: 615886, 313603

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

34 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Approximate extent of site

6.3.11 VIEWPOINT 7

View west from Taverham Mills Nature Reserve Visual Receptors

Baseline Description • Users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve

In this view from Taverham Mills Nature Reserve the site is not visible through Visual Effects layers of intervening vegetation. The area is well-wooded, particularly along There are no visual effects from this viewpoint. the line of the river. Views will be less open in summer when deciduous vegetation is in full leaf.

7

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 9m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 133m OS grid reference: 615844, 313771

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 35 Approximate extent of site

River Wensum

6.3.12 VIEWPOINT 8

View north west from Taverham Mills Nature Reserve Visual Receptors

Baseline Description • Users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve

View 8 is representative of users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve. In this Visual Effects During Construction near distance view there are glimpsed views towards the site through gaps in Construction activities are in close proximity but the majority will be screened the existing vegetation. Views will be less open in summer when deciduous by the existing vegetation along the River Wensum and within the grounds of vegetation is in full leaf. Taverham Park. The magnitude of change to users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve during construction will be Negligible.

Visual Effects of Permanent Development and Specific Mitigation

The permanent development will be barely discernible from this point and will be largely screened by intervening vegetation. There may be glimpsed view of the development through gaps in the existing vegetation, particularly in winter.

Given the distance from the site and the extent of vegetation to be retained the magnitude of change will be Negligible at Year 1 with no further change.

8

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 8m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 220m OS grid reference: 615832, 313657

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

36 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Approximate extent of site

Taverham Hall School Playing School Fields

6.3.13 VIEWPOINT 9

View north from Ringland Lane Visual Receptors • Users of Ringland Lane Baseline Description Visual Effects View 9 is representative of users of Ringland Lane. In this middle distance view Taverham Hall School and its associated playing fields are visible in There are no visual effects from this viewpoint. the distance amongst a wooded backdrop of trees. The site itself is not discernible from this point amongst surrounding vegetation.

9

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 20m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 940m OS grid reference: 615406, 312790

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 37 Approximate site location

Residential properties Residential properties off Ringland Road along Taverham Road

6.3.14 VIEWPOINT 10

View north from Poethlyn Drive Visual Receptors

Baseline Description • Users of Poethlyn Drive

View 10 is representative of users of Poethlyn Drive. In this long distance Visual Effects view the site is not visible due to distance and layers of intervening vegetation. There are no visual effects from this viewpoint.

10

Camera make + model: NIKON D3200 Viewpoint height (AOD): 25m Date of photograph: 07.04.2016 Distance from site: 1120m OS grid reference: 615604, 312627

Source: Ordnance Survey Crown Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. License Number 100022432

38 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk 6.4 Visual Effects 6.4.10 Users of Taverham Hall School access the school grounds via a private driveway off the street. As such, views towards the site are limited to the 6.4.1 The assessment of visual effects during construction and after implementation school forecourt and playing fields. Users of the school are at some distance (Year 1 and Year 15) for each visual receptors described above in each from the site and views from the playing fields are largely screened by representative view is summarised in Table 5. existing vegetation. As such, users of Taverham Hall School will experience a Negligible scale of effect during construction. 6.4.2 The tables should be read in conjunction with the criteria for determining the magnitude of change in Appendix C: Table C2, the matrix of scale of 6.4.11 Users of Taverham Mills Nature Reserve have a High sensitivity to change. importance in Appendix C: Table C3 and the methodology described in Construction activities are in close proximity but the majority will be screened Section 2.0 of this report. by the existing vegetation along the River Wensum and within the grounds of Taverham Park. The magnitude of change to users of Taverham Mills Nature Construction Effects Reserve during construction will be Negligible. 6.4.3 During the construction phase visual impacts will arise from construction Permanent Development activities including the location and arrangement of access; site compounds and parking; the storage of materials; erection of temporary fencing; 6.4.12 The spatial layout of the proposed development has been carefully designed operational plant; and the construction of buildings and landscape. The to minimise the visual effects on residents in close proximity to the site. The effects of construction works will generally be short term and temporary in retention of existing vegetation restricts most views towards the site. The nature. All construction works will be carried out in full accordance with best built form is designed to complement and respect the character and context practice to avoid, reduce or limit the extent of negative visual effects as far of the park and surrounding countryside. as possible. This will include the erection of hoarding to limit the influence of ground level construction activities on near distance views. 6.4.13 Following construction there will be No Effect to users of Costessey Road, Taverham Lane, Ringland Lane or Poethlyn Drive due to distance and layers 6.4.4 The site is visually enclosed by surrounding vegetation. Therefore, the effects of intervening vegetation. of construction activities are localised and have a greatest influence in close proximity to the site. 6.4.14 Residents of The Street are in close proximity to the site and will have varying views towards the site from their properties and rear gardens. At 6.4.5 Users of Costessey Road will have views along the main drive, however no Year 1 the scale of effect will be Minor Adverse to Negligible, decreasing to widening works are proposed within the scope of the view. The main parcel Negligible by Year 15 as proposed planting matures. of land is not visible from Costessey Road through layers of intervening vegetation. There will be No Effect to users of Costessey Road during 6.4.15 Residents of properties within Taverham Park have views over the development construction. site from upper storey windows, partially screened by intervening vegetation. At Year 1 proposed planting will have little effect and the scale of effect 6.4.6 Taverham Lane is well vegetated on both sides, preventing any views towards will be Moderate to Minor Adverse. As proposed planting within the site the site. As such, there will be No Effect to users of Taverham Lane during boundaries matures it will help to break up the built form and soften views construction. of the development. By Year 15 the scale of effect will decrease to Minor Adverse. 6.4.7 Ringland Lane and Poethlyn Drive are at some distance from the site. From Viewpoints 9 and 10 the site is not visible due to distance and interning 6.4.16 At Year 1 the scale of effect to Users of Taverham Hall School will be vegetation within the well-wooded landscape. There will be No Effect on Negligible. Proposed understorey planting along the western site boundary these receptors during the construction phase. will increase screening to the site, but the impact will not be enough to alter the scale of effect. Therefore the scale of effect will remain Negligible at 6.4.8 Residents of The Street are in close proximity to the site and will have varying Year 15. views towards the site from their properties and rear gardens. The scale of effect during construction will be Minor Adverse to Negligible depending on 6.4.17 The completed development will be barely discernible from Taverham Mills distance, angle and levels of intervening vegetation. Nature Reserve through layers of intervening vegetation along the River Wensum and within the grounds of Taverham Park. The scale of effect will be 6.4.9 Residents of properties within Taverham Park which directly overlook the Negligible at Year 1 with no further change. site are in closest proximity to the development site and will experience the highest levels of change during construction. During the construction phase views from these properties and gardens will be of a constantly changing landscape. The scale of effect to residents of these properties will be Moderate to Minor Adverse.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 39 Table 5 - Summary of Visual Effects

Visual Receptor VP Sensitivity Development Phase Magnitude of Change Scale of effect/ Importance size/scale: extent: duration

Users of roads: Users of Costessey Road 1 Low Construction None No Effect

Completion Year 1 None No Effect

Completion Year 15 None No Effect

Users of Taverham Lane 5 Low Construction None No Effect

Completion Year 1 None No Effect

Completion Year 15 None No Effect

Users of Ringland Lane 9 Low Construction None No Effect

Completion Year 1 None No Effect

Completion Year 15 None No Effect

Users of Poethlyn Drive 10 Low Construction None No Effect

Completion Year 1 None No Effect

Completion Year 15 None No Effect

Residential and other properties:

Residents of The Street Not Medium Construction Low Negative to Negligible Minor Adverse to Negligible available Completion Year 1 Low Negative to Negligible Minor Adverse to Negligible

Completion Year 15 Negligible Negligible

Residents of Taverham Park 2 Medium Construction Medium to Low Negative Moderate to Minor Adverse

Completion Year 1 Medium to Low Negative Moderate to Minor Adverse

Completion Year 15 Low Negative Minor Adverse

40 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Table 5 - Summary of Visual Effects - continued

Visual Receptor VP Sensitivity Development Phase Magnitude of Change Scale of effect/ Importance size/scale: extent: duration

Users of Taverham Hall School 3, 4 Low Construction Low Negative to Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 1 Low Negative to Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 15 Negligible Negligible

Recreational Users

Users of Taverham Mills Nature 6, 7, 8 High Construction Negligible Negligible Reserve Completion Year 1 Negligible Negligible

Completion Year 15 Negligible Negligible

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 41 7. MITIGATION AND MONITORING MEASURES • Tree retention and protection: A final Arboricultural Method Statement, accordance with BS5837:2012); Tree Protection Plan and Schedule of Tree Works must be prepared to • Permitted working hours and use of lighting, including a detailed lighting ensure the retention of important existing vegetation as identified in this specification; 7.1 Primary Mitigation and Design Measures report. The details shall be in accordance with the submitted Arboricultural 7.1.1 The proposed redevelopment of land off the private drive to Taverham School Impact Assessment and should include full consideration of proposed • The implementation of planting (and where necessary proposed protection has been carefully designed to minimise landscape and visual effects. Primary changes in level, construction of hard surfaces, services and drainage as on the substantial completion of each phase); and mitigation or those aspects integrated into the development masterplan and well as the monitoring required during and post construction. • Responsibilities, and monitoring/reporting measures including supervision detailed design are described in Section 4.0 of this report. • Soft landscape: The detailed design of all landscaped areas including by appropriately qualified personnel. 7.1.2 These are inherent parts of the design included in the project description and existing vegetation to be retained, in conjunction with details of proposed Implementation and Monitoring are considered in the assessment of landscape and visual effects. planting in residential areas. The proposals must be in accordance with the submitted Landscape Masterplan. Particular details must include the 7.2.7 During construction and at suitable intervals post completion the protection following: 7.2 Secondary Mitigation and Monitoring Measures and condition of existing vegetation should be monitored by a qualified ººThe detailed design of soft landscape including species, planting arboriculturist. The details for monitoring should be established in the density, and stock size. The size of plant stock should provide some 7.2.1 The following section identifies and describes secondary mitigation and Arboricultural Method Statement. monitoring measures to minimise the probability of landscape and visual immediate impact in key areas (in particular along the south western effects occurring, and ensure the successful completion of the scheme. boundary and within the open space) whilst predominantly utilising stock 7.2.8 The influence of vegetation is highlighted in the assessment of both landscape of more modest size to naturally succeed larger stock and deliver a and visual effects as it provides the structure and framework for the new 7.2.2 Such measures are identified at the key stages of the project post planning mature green framework in the long-term; buildings. All new planting must therefore be implemented in accordance namely detailed design (including discharge of planning conditions); ººA specification setting out the standards and time frames for the with the detailed landscape drawings, specification and implementation implementation and monitoring; and long-term management. implementation of soft landscape to include soil preparation / cultivation, programme and must be monitored by an appropriate qualified landscape details of planting and seeding, along with initial maintenance to ensure Detailed Design professional. the successful establishment of vegetation; and Long-term Management 7.2.3 As highlighted a number of aspects of the proposed development will form ººAn implementation programme. The implementation of planting (and in part of the detailed design. The key issues relating to secondary mitigation particular strategic vegetation to the site boundaries) should be phased 7.2.9 Landscape conditions should be used to ensure that planting within areas are set out below: in conjunction with the substantial completion of each area. conveyed to private residents is retained for at least a minimum period of five • Proposed external ground and finished floor levels: Levels (unless 7.2.4 All of these measures can be successfully addressed and monitored by the years. This can be supported by guidance on general landscape maintenance otherwise agreed) should broadly follow the existing contours of the site local planning authority prior to the commencement of the development via included with information provided at the point of purchase. as far as possible. Significant changes in level (such as retaining walls) conditions of the planning consent. should be avoided; Construction • External building materials: The specification of materials including 7.2.5 A number of adverse landscape and visual effects are highlighted during colour and finish with samples to be submitted and agreed by the local the construction phase. To manage the potential effects arising during planning authority. The detailed design should be in accordance with the construction work, it is recommended that in advance of works commencing principles set out in the Design and Access Statement. a Construction Management Plan is prepared. The Construction Management • Proposed drainage and services: The detailed design of proposed Plan will include an outline of the proposed development, the sequencing of drainage and services should be fully coordinated with the landscape construction works and the management controls required with consideration scheme; of environmental effects.

• External lighting: The detailed lighting design should comply with 7.2.6 The Construction Management Plan will include: British Standards, Codes of Practice and County Council street lighting • The location and arrangement of site access, compounds (including specification. Consideration should be given to the location of lighting, accommodation and cabins) and parking; light source and the type of luminaires to ensure that the effects of light pollution and sky glow are kept to a minimum. Within the development • The use of hoardings and fencing (including temporary fencing); lighting along the southern boundary of the site must be minimised. • The storage of construction materials and waste; • Hard landscape: The arrangement and specification of hard surfacing, enclosures / fencing, street furniture and other structures. The proposals • The handling and storage of topsoil (including imported topsoil); should be in accordance with the submitted Landscape Masterplan; • Measures for the protection of existing vegetation and landscape areas (in

42 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk 8. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS • The retention of the majority of existing vegetation in order to protect views development will be Negligible due to distance, topography and intervening from the wider countryside. vegetation.

8.1 General • A development of relatively low density incorporating six detached 8.4.4 Secondary mitigation and monitoring measures to minimise the probability dwellings, all two storeys in height in order to match the surrounding of landscape and visual effects occurring, and ensure the successful 8.1.1 This report assesses the landscape and visual impact of a full planning residential area of The Street. completion of the scheme have been identified include detailed design application for the development of six residential dwellings on land off the (including discharge of planning conditions); demolition and construction; private drive leading to Taverham School, Norfolk. • A well defined frontage treatment to the main drive, with houses set back implementation and monitoring; and long-term management. from the boundary. House frontage treatments should be simple, specifically 8.1.2 The principles of the proposed residential development have been developed open grass with timber post and rail boundary fencing to the roadside if 8.4.5 It should be acknowledged that any development will give rise to change in from the Landscape baseline as part of a landscape led approach. Throughout further definition is required. the landscape of the area and the views of receptors. The degree of change the landscape and visual assessment, potential effects were reviewed and will influence the judgement on acceptability and will need to be balanced assessed as part of this iterative design. • Rear garden boundaries are to be created through hedgerows utilising with the overall benefits delivered by the scheme. native indigenous species. Where rear gardens meet the woodland 8.2 Baseline Conditions boundaries, the hedgerows will strengthen and maintain the green parkland estate character, reducing glimpses of bright new fencing through the trees. 8.5 Conclusion 8.2.1 The proposed development site lies within the grounds of Taverham Hall 8.5.1 In conclusion, the proposed development will provide a high quality residential School, to the south west of the village of Taverham. The land (approximately • The new access road through the development should reflect the existing environment within Taverham Park. Although there will be localised visual 1.3Ha) is greenfield land and is currently maintained as mown grassland. rural country lanes / drives, with potential use of permeable surfacing to enhance rural character. and landscape effects (primarily during construction), the nature and scale of 8.2.2 The site itself is located adjacent to the main drive in an area of parkland. the development means that most effects following completion are negligible. The site boundaries to the south, east and west are defined by deep wooded • Creation of internal breaks and interest with hedgerows and trees within the The development is therefore acceptable in terms of its effect on landscape boundaries. Access to the site is off a private drive, known as the ‘Main Drive’ developable area to ensure rural character is maintained and enhanced. character and visual amenity. which links to Costessey Road to the east of the site. • Species selection to fit with the local character and to promote biodiversity, 8.2.3 There are well-established broad belts of trees on the southern and eastern helping stitch the site into the wider landscape. boundaries of the site. The belt of trees on the western boundary is broad to 8.3.3 These measures were embedded into the final submitted planning application the north and south, but narrows in the middle. The belt of trees along Main as primary mitigation to minimise landscape and visual effects and provide Drive (on the northern boundary of the site) is narrower than on the other enhancement. boundaries. Most of the site is vegetated with grass, but the north-eastern corner and south-eastern section are planted with native mixed woodland. 8.4 Summary of Landscape and Visual Effects 8.2.4 The site lies within the River Wensum Landscape Character Area as 8.4.1 During the construction phase the proposed development will have some identified in the Broadland District Landscape Character Assessment. Key landscape and visual effect, with the most significant effects occurring close characteristics of this LCA include the distinct landform, vegetation flanking to the site. During the construction phase there will be a temporary site wide ditches and watercourses, small linear settlements and a patchwork of small disturbance during the removal of existing trees, alterations to the existing scale fields often lined with strong hedgerow boundaries and trees or small topography and the provision of temporary infrastructure such as access, areas of woodland. site compounds and parking, the storage of materials, erection of temporary 8.2.5 The visibility of the site is largely confined to the neighbouring residential fencing/hoardings, use of operational plant and general construction works. properties to the north of the main drive. There are partial glimpses of the 8.4.2 In most instances the change from the existing baseline conditions of the site through trees from Taverham Mills Nature Reserve to the south of the site are considered to be Low or Negligible with a No Effect on the setting site. The location of the site, local topography and vegetation in the wider of Grade II Listed Taverham Hall. As such, during construction the majority landscape restrict views of the site from the wider landscape to the south. of the landscape effects of the proposed development are Minor Adverse or Negligible. 8.3 Landscape Strategy 8.4.3 The assessment of effects on a number of identified visual receptors shows 8.3.1 The landscape strategy was informed by the findings of the landscape and that the construction phase will also be the most disruptive in terms of visual visual assessment and the analysis of constraints and opportunities. amenity. The residents of properties within Taverham Park to the north of the 8.3.2 Key principles of the Landscape Strategy include: main drive (who have varying views depending on the level of intervening vegetation) will be most affected. In wider views, the effects of the proposed

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 43 APPENDICES

44 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk Appendix A: Sources of Information

Planning General

• National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); • Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, • Joint Core Strategy for Broadland, Norwich and South Norfolk (Broadland, Third Edition 2013); Norwich and South Norfolk Councils, 2014); • Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland • Development Management DPD (Broadland District Council, 2015). (The Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage, 2002);

Mapping and Other Data • Advice Note 01/11: Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and • Ordnance Survey maps (1:20,000 Explorer Series); Visual Impact Assessment (Landscape Institute, 2011); and

• Historic Ordnance Survey maps; • BS5837:2012 Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction – Recommendations (BSi, April 2012) • Aerial images;

• Multi-Agency Geographic Information for the Countryside (MAGIC) (http:// magic.gov.uk/).

Landscape Character Documents

• National Character Area Profiles: NCA 78 Central North Norfolk National Character Area (Natural England, 2012);

• East of England Landscape Framework Landscape Typology (http:// landscape-east.org.uk/), (Landscape East);

• Broadland District Landscape Character Assessment (Broadland District Council, 2008);

• South Norfolk Landscape Character Assessment (Land Use Consultants, 2001);

• South Norfolk Local Landscape Designations Review (Chris Blandford Associates, 2012).

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 45 APPENDIX B: Criteria for Assessing Sensitivity

Table B1: Landscape Receptor Value and Susceptibility Table B2: Visual Receptor Value and Susceptibility

Level Value Susceptibility Level Value Susceptibility Landscape elements that are in good to excellent condition • Low potential for mitigation. Visual amenity assessed as good to excellent; • Observers whose attention or interest may be focused and are a fundamental component of landscape character. • No or very limited potential for an area of high scenic value to include: on the landscape to include: Alternatively a distinctive or rare landscape feature. These Nationally recognised or important views such substitution or replacement. • Users of rights of way and recreation trails are likely, but not necessarily subject to statutory protection as those protected by policy e.g. National Park / • Limited / no capacity to accommodate e.g. TPO’s or Listed Buildings and/or given significant AONB or a national trail / route. • Users of land with public access including Open the proposed development or change High protection by planning policy. Designed views. Access and National Trust land. without affecting the baseline situation. Views to or from designated heritage assets. • Residential properties with views from rooms occupied • Proposals may substantially contradict Landscapes that are in good condition, with a high prevalence Views from recognised tourist destinations, during daylight / waking hours (predominantly ground management or policy objectives. High of important landscape elements giving rise to a strong or views marked on maps or referred to in art / floor). unique character and sense of place. There are generally literature. few detractors or uncharacteristic features present. These are likely, but not necessarily, statutory protected landscapes Visual amenity assessed as average to good to • Observers where views of the landscape are part of, e.g. AONB, National Park, Registered Parks and Gardens include: but not the sole purpose of the activity to include: Views which are locally recognised including recognised for their quality or cultural associations. • Those playing or spectating at outdoor sports or those protected by local policy eg. visually im- undertaking formal outdoor recreation. Management objectives generally focused on conservation of portant open space or special landscape area. Medium • Users of local roads where there are clear / open landscape character. To or from locally important heritage assets. Views from local destinations and well used views across the landscape and low levels of traffic. footpath routes. Landscape elements that are in good to average condition • Some potential for mitigation. • Residential properties with views from rooms unoccupied during daylight / waking hours and make a contribution to defining landscape character. • Some potential for substitution or (predominantly first floor rooms). Elements may be protected by local planning policy. replacement. Areas of average to low visual amenity to • Observers where attention is focused upon the • Some capacity to accommodate the Landscapes that are in good to average condition with include: activity and not the wider landscape to include: proposed development or change some important landscape elements giving rise to a positive Views which are not recognised or have limit- without affecting the baseline situation. • Receptors engaged in sports or other activities. character and recognisable sense of place, although some ed value, such as footpaths which are not well • Proposals may be partly, but Low • Users of main roads travelling at speed, or local Medium detracting features may be present. These may include local used. landscape designations e.g. Special Landscape Areas or other not entirely, in accordance with Detracting features may be clearly apparent. roads where the focus is on the road ahead. management or policy objectives. designations indicating local cultural or historic value. • Places of work / study.

Management objectives generally focused on conservation and enhancement of landscape character. Table B3: Sensitivity Landscape elements that are in average to poor condition. • Good or significant opportunities for They may make a limited contribution to the character of mitigation. VALUE the area or their contribution is reduced by their condition. • Good potential for substitution or HIGH MEDIUM LOW Features or elements that are uncharacteristic and detract replacement. from the landscape character of the area. • Capacity to accommodate the proposed development / change HIGH High High Medium Landscapes that are in average to poor condition with Low without affecting the baseline situation, evidence of erosion and limited sense of place. Some or with potential to enhance it. important landscape elements, however, detracting features MEDIUM High Medium Low notable. Designations are unlikely. • Proposals generally in accordance with management or policy objectives. SUSCEPTIBILITY Management objectives generally focused on enhancement LOW Medium Low Low and restoration of landscape character.

46 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk APPENDIX C: Criteria for Assessing Magnitude of Change and Scale of Effect

Table C1: Magnitude of Landscape Change. Table C1: Magnitude of Landscape Change. Continued

Magnitude of Effect Change Experienced as a result of development Magnitude of Effect Change Experienced as a result of development Extent of change Extent of change • Result in the permanent loss of characteristic landscape elements and features and/or their setting. • Result in the temporary or minor loss or alteration of landscape elements and features and/or reduce their setting. • Introduce uncharacteristic or dominant elements. • Introduce some uncharacteristic components alongside characteristic features or elements. • Be at complete variance with the landform, scale and pattern of the landscape. • Not quite fit with the landform, scale and pattern of the landscape. • Substantially erode the landscape character and/or condition of the area. NEGATIVE • Be a discernible change, although not uncharacteristic when set within the attributes of the • Undermine any designation or the nature of a vulnerable landscape. receiving landscape. NEGATIVE • Result in a minor deterioration of landscape character and/or condition. High • Retain the majority of existing landscape components and/or enable the full restoration and/or replacement of characteristic landscape elements and features. Low • Retain existing key features and/or allow limited restoration of characteristic landscape elements • Introduce new landscape elements and features that through good design enables a sense of place and features. to be fully restored. • Introduce new landscape elements and features that through good design enables some sense of

• Have a strong contextual fit with the scale, landform and pattern of the landscape. POSITIVE place to be restored. • Substantially enhance the landscape character and/or condition of the area.

• Respects the landform, scale and pattern of the landscape. POSITIVE • Enables limited enhancement of the landscape character and/or condition of the area. • Result in the partial loss or alteration of characteristic landscape elements and features and/or reduce or remove their setting. The development would introduce barely discernible elements or physical change to the landscape. • Introduce uncharacteristic components alongside characteristic features or elements. Negligible Key characteristics of the landscape and its integrity are unaffected. • Be at odds with the landform, scale and pattern of the landscape. Medium • Be a noticeable change, although not necessarily uncharacteristic when set within the attributes NEGATIVE of the receiving landscape. • Result in a deterioration of landscape character and/or condition.

• Retain existing key features and/or enable partial restoration of characteristic landscape elements and features. • Introduce new landscape elements and features that through good design enables sense of place to be restored. • Fits well with the landform, scale and pattern of the landscape. POSITIVE • Enhance the landscape character and/or condition of the area.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 | 47 APPENDIX C: Criteria for Assessing Magnitude of Change and Scale of Effect continued

Table C2: Nature and Magnitude of Visual Effects Table C3: Scale of Importance for Landscape and Visual Effects

Magnitude of Effect Change Experienced MAGNITUDE OF CHANGE Extent of change HIGH MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE • Proposal results in the total, permanent loss of a highly valued view. HIGH Major Major Moderate Negligible • Proposal introduces dominant or discordant elements altering the composition or balance of the view. NEGATIVE • Proposal introduces features not already present on / or part of the skyline. MEDIUM Major Moderate Minor Negligible SENSITIVITY High • Proposal removes substantial visual detractors. LOW Moderate Minor Negligible Negligible • Proposal introduces positive elements that substantially enhance the composition of the view. POSITIVE • Development introduces an immediately apparent landmark or feature.

• Proposal is clearly visible and recognisable but not prominent in views.

• Proposal introduces elements that are not necessarily already characteristic and/or are incongruous; NEGATIVE • Development may form skyline features amongst existing development and/or vegetation. Medium

• Proposal removes some visual detractors.

• Proposal is a visible but characteristic element complementing the composition of the view. POSITIVE

• Proposal is only a minor component or slightly uncharacteristic part of the view and does not introduce incongruous features and subsequently

• Proposal does not alter the overall composition of the view or dominance or balance of NEGATIVE elements within it and therefore might by missed by a casual observer.

Low • Proposal removes limited visual detractors.

• Proposal is only a minor component of the view and compliments the composition and

balance of existing elements. POSITIVE

• Proposals perceived as a background component in view or are subservient to other elements within it. Negligible • The development would be barely discernible.

48 | Land off Private Drive to Taverham School, Norfolk James Blake Associates Ltd Chartered Landscape Architects • The Black Barn Hall Road Lavenham Suffolk. CO10 9QX tel. 01787 248216 e-mail. [email protected] Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2017 |