Proposed Wind Turbine Land South West of Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire

Photomontage - Viewpoint 2 - Rhos y Llyn - Proposed Wireline

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223000 224000 225000 226000 227000 Photomontage - Viewpoint 2 - Rhos y Llyn - Location Plan

OS Grid Co-ordinates: 224728,232692 Proposed Wind Turbine Photomontage Turbine hub height: 50m Horizontal angle of view: 50° Image size: 395mm x 130mm Figure 5.3.VP2 Elevation AOD: 235m Date: 16.11.2011 ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Land South West of Viewpoint VP2 Turbine rota diameter: 48m Sheet size: A3 Lens focal length (35mm format): 50mm Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Distance to nearest turbine: 2030m Time: 11:35 Page 2 Turbine rota tip height: 74m Viewing distance: 400mm Height of camera: 1.50m Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire Rhos y Llyn View direction: 52° Photomontage - Viewpoint 3 - Cnwc-poeth - Existing View

Photomontage - Viewpoint 3 - Cnwc-poeth - Proposed View

OS Grid Co-ordinates: 224278,235493 Proposed Wind Turbine Photomontage Turbine hub height: 50m Horizontal angle of view: 50° Image size: 395mm x 130mm Figure 5.3.VP3 Elevation AOD: 165m Date: 16.11.2011 ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Land South West of Viewpoint VP3 Turbine rota diameter: 48m Sheet size: A3 Lens focal length (35mm format): 50mm Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Page 1 Distance to nearest turbine: 2285m Time: 12:01 Turbine rota tip height: 24m Viewing distance: 400mm Height of camera: 1.50m Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire Cnwc-poeth View direction: 148° Photomontage - Viewpoint 3 - Cnwc-poeth - Proposed Wireline

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This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnace Survey on behalf of the controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. ADAS licence no. AL100020033 January 2012 233000 223000 224000 225000 226000 227000 228000 Photomontage - Viewpoint 3 - Cnwc-poeth - Location Plan

OS Grid Co-ordinates: 224278,235493 Proposed Wind Turbine Photomontage Turbine hub height: 50m Horizontal angle of view: 50° Image size: 395mm x 130mm Figure 5.3.VP3 Elevation AOD: 165m Date: 16.11.2011 ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Land South West of Viewpoint VP3 Turbine rota diameter: 48m Sheet size: A3 Lens focal length (35mm format): 50mm Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Distance to nearest turbine: 2285m Time: 12:01 Page 2 Turbine rota tip height: 74m Viewing distance: 400mm Height of camera: 1.50m Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire Cnwc-poeth View direction: 146° Photomontage - Viewpoint 4 - Ty-newydd - Existing View

Photomontage - Viewpoint 4 - Ty-newydd - Proposed View OS Grid Co-ordinates: 225437,233334 Proposed Wind Turbine Photomontage Turbine hub height: 50m Horizontal angle of view: 50° Image size: 395mm x 130mm Figure 5.3.VP4 Elevation AOD: 215m Date: 16.11.2011 ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Land South West of Viewpoint VP4 Turbine rota diameter: 48m Sheet size: A3 Lens focal length (35mm format): 50mm Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Page 1 Distance to nearest turbine: 1075m Time: 12:45 Turbine rota tip height: 74m Viewing distance: 400mm Height of camera: 1.50m Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire Ty-newydd View direction: 59° Photomontage - Viewpoint 4 - Ty-newydd - Proposed Wireline

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232000 224000 225000 226000 227000 228000 232000 Photomontage - Viewpoint 4 - Ty-newydd - Location Plan OS Grid Co-ordinates: 224278,235493 Proposed Wind Turbine Photomontage Turbine hub height: 50m Horizontal angle of view: 50° Image size: 395mm x 130mm Figure 5.3.VP4 Elevation AOD: 215m Date: 16.11.2011 ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Land South West of Viewpoint VP4 Turbine rota diameter: 48m Sheet size: A3 Lens focal length (35mm format): 50mm Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Distance to nearest turbine: 1075m Time: 12:45 Page 2 Turbine rota tip height: 74m Viewing distance: 400mm Height of camera: 1.50m Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire Ty-newydd View direction: 59° Photomontage - Viewpoint 5 - Gelliaur - Existing View

Photomontage - Viewpoint 5 - Gelliaur - Proposed View

OS Grid Co-ordinates: 228306,236842 Proposed Wind Turbine Photomontage Turbine hub height: 50m Horizontal angle of view: 50° Image size: 395mm x 130mm Figure 5.3.VP5 Elevation AOD: 140m Date: 16.11.2011 ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Land South West of Viewpoint VP5 Turbine rota diameter: 48m Sheet size: A3 Lens focal length (35mm format): 50mm Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Page 1 Distance to nearest turbine: 3455m Time: 13:56 Turbine rota tip height: 74m Viewing distance: 400mm Height of camera: 1.50m Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire Gelliaur View direction: 242° Photomontage - Viewpoint 5 - Gelliaur - Proposed Wireline

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This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnace Survey on behalf of the controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised 234000 234000 reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. ADAS licence no. AL100020033 January 2012

225000 226000 227000 228000 229000 230000 Photomontage - Viewpoint 4 - Ty-newydd - Location Plan

OS Grid Co-ordinates: 228306,236842 Proposed Wind Turbine Photomontage Turbine hub height: 50m Horizontal angle of view: 50° Image size: 395mm x 130mm Figure 5.3.VP5 Elevation AOD: 140m Date: 16.11.2011 ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Land South West of Viewpoint VP5 Turbine rota diameter: 48m Sheet size: A3 Lens focal length (35mm format): 50mm Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Distance to nearest turbine: 3455m Time: 13:56 Page 2 Turbine rota tip height: 74m Viewing distance: 400mm Height of camera: 1.50m Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire Gelliaur View direction: 242°

Table 11: Extent of Visibility

Distance Viewed Description

Up to 2km Usually seen as a dominant focus although the entire turbine may (Very close views) not be completely visible due to obscuring of the turbine by the mid ground landform and because visibility may also be screened or deflected by foreground features such as trees and buildings. At this distance, movement of the wind turbines is clear and may collectively convey a distinct rhythm.

Between 25km Likely to be seen as one of the key elements of the landscape rather (Close views) than the dominant feature and the entire turbine is more likely to be visible at this distance.

Between 515km Usually only prominent in clear visibility conditions and is seen as (Mid distant views part of the wider landscape composition, although the movement of blades may still be discernible.

Between 1525km Only likely to be seen in very clear visibility conditions and where a (Distant views) viewer deliberately searches for the feature, the weather conditions are such that the turbine is highlighted against its surroundings, or views are orientated to face the turbine as a focus. Turbines from this distance are usually seen as a minor element of a wide landscape composition and the movement of blades is generally unclear.

Visual Impact Assessment

5.3.17. Assessing the overall impact on visual amenity is achieved by relating the sensitivity of the visual receptors or features, to the potential magnitude of change to a particular view.

5.3.18. General assumptions have been made in accordance with current guidance in relation to the sensitivity of visual receptors.

1. Although residents may be particularly sensitive to changes in their visual amenity, most land use planning regimes consider that public views are of greater value than views from private properties. However, the cumulative effects on a number of residents may be considered to give rise to an effect on the community.

2. People travelling through or past the affected landscapes in cars, on trains or other transport routes may also be important, depending on extent or scale of view and duration.

Table 12: Visual Sensitivity and Typical Descriptors*

Sensitivity Typical Criteria

High Residential properties

Users of Public Rights of Way or other recreational trails (e.g. National Trails, footpaths, bridleways etc.).

Users of recreational facilities where the purpose of that recreation is enjoyment of the countryside. Moderate Outdoor workers

Users of scenic roads, railways or waterways or users of designated tourist routes.

Schools and other institutional buildings, and their outdoor areas. Low Indoor workers

Users of main roads (e.g. trunk roads) or passengers in public transport on main arterial routes.

Users of recreational facilities where the purpose of that recreation is not related to the view (e.g. sports facilities). * Table is derived from Interim Advice Note 135/10.

Magnitude of Visual Effect

5.3.19. The magnitude of a visual effect is about understanding the scale, nature, extent and duration of visual change a new development will have on a view as well as the screening present. Establishing the magnitude of change in the visual envelope will also take into

account any proposed mitigation measures.

Table 13: Criteria to Evaluate Magnitude of Visual Effect*

Magnitude of Impact Typical Criteria Descriptors

Major The project, or a part of it, would become the dominant feature or focal point of the view. Moderate The project, or a part of it, would form a noticeable feature or element of the view which is readily apparent to the receptor. Minor The project, or a part of it, would be perceptible but not alter the overall balance of features and elements that comprise the existing view. Negligible Only a very small part of the project would be discernable, or it is at such a distance that it would form a barely noticeable feature or element of the view. No Change No part of the project, or work or activity associated with it, is discernible. * Table is derived from Interim Advice Note 135/10.

Significance of Visual Effect

5.3.20. Significance of visual effect can be assessed by comparing the sensitivity of the receptor against the degree of change in the view.

Table 14: Significance of Effect Categories* MAGNITUDE OF IMPACT No Negligible Minor Moderate Major change High Neutral Slight Slight/Moderate Moderate/Large Large/Very Large Moderate Neutral Neutral/Slight Slight Moderate Moderate/Large

Low Neutral Neutral/Slight Neutral/Slight Slight Slight/Moderate SENSITIVITY VISUAL

* Table is derived from Interim Advice Note 135/10.

Table 15: Descriptors of Effect

Significance Typical Descriptors of Effect

Very large The project would create an iconic new feature that would greatly Beneficial enhance the view. Large Beneficial The project would lead to a major improvement in a view from a highly sensitive receptor. Moderate The proposals would cause obvious improvement to a view from a Beneficial moderately sensitive receptor, or perceptible improvement to a view from a more sensitive receptor. Slight Beneficial The project would cause limited improvement to a view from a receptor of medium sensitivity, or would cause greater improvement to a view from a receptor of low sensitivity. Neutral No perceptible change in the view. Slight Adverse The project would cause limited deterioration to a view from a receptor of medium sensitivity, or cause greater deterioration to a view from a receptor of low sensitivity. Moderate Adverse The project would cause obvious deterioration to a view from a moderately sensitive receptor, or perceptible damage to a view from a more sensitive receptor. Large Adverse The project would cause major deterioration to a view from a highly sensitive receptor, and would constitute a major discordant element in the view. Very Large The project would cause the loss of views from a highly sensitive Adverse receptor, and would constitute a dominant discordant feature in the view. *Table is derived from Interim Advice Note 135/10.

Cumulative Impact Assessment

5.3.21. The Cumulative Impact Assessment includes consideration of effects of the proposed wind turbine development together with any existing and proposed turbines within the Broad Study Area.

5.3.22. Two types of Cumulative Effects were considered. These include:

• Intervisibility where the influence of existing and proposed wind turbines will overlap and impact on landscape character and where visual amenity receptors will simultaneously have views of more than one development of this kind.

• Sequential where a viewer will gain progressive views of two or more wind turbines along the course of a route. The turbines may not be intervisible, but can combine to have a cumulative impact on the viewer as they move through the landscape sustaining intermittent views. This may change

the perception of the landscape character to an area dominated by wind turbines.

5.4. Landscape Baseline

The Existing Landscape

5.4.1. The Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) has developed a system known as LANDMAP that allows information about the landscape to be gathered, organised and evaluated in a nationally consistent manner. LANDMAP provides both objective and subjective information about the landscape of Wales.

5.4.2. The proposed development site is situated within five landscape areas as defined by LANDMAP. The various landscape areas consist of a Geological Landscape Area, a Landscape Habitat Area, a Visual and Sensory Area, a Historic Landscape Area and a Cultural Landscape Area. The characteristics of the different landscape areas are detailed below.

Geological Landscape

5.4.3. The geological landscape aspect area ‘Mynydd Crogwy – Tegrn’ (PMBRKGL029) is defined by LANDMAP as an Undulating Lowland Hill Terrain (Level 3). The key characteristics of this aspect area include:

• Extensive area of undulating terrain with a streamdissected platformlike character and rising up to around 255m.

• Rounded, domed hills are typical and valleys are only incised along the northern and eastern margins of the area. In the north the effect is minor and limited to a marginal escarpment, but in the southeast several deep cwms are developed.

• Bedrock dominated by Ordovician slates.

5.4.4. The landscape aspect is considered to be of moderate value as there are no regionally significant sites or landforms and the geomorphology is considered to be typical and widespread. The dominantly rural landscape aspect is in constant change, but good condition.

Landscape Habitat Area

5.4.5. The landscape habitat aspect area ‘Area between Cwm Cneifa and Cwm Cych’ (PMBRKLH668) is defined by LANDMAP as Improved Grassland (Level 3). The key characteristics of this aspect area include:

• predominately improved grassland comprising a considerable number of fields with associated field boundaries;

• arable farming;

• small areas of semiimproved grassland; and

• scattered buildings.

5.4.6. The landscape aspect is considered to be of moderate value due to the surrounding fingers of woodland that extend into to this area.

Visual and Sensory

5.4.7. The visual and sensory landscape aspect area ‘Mynydd Crogwy’ (PMBRKVS003) is defined by LANDMAP as Enclosed Hill & Scarp Grazing (Level 4). The key characteristics of this aspect area include: contextual setting for the Preseli Hills;

upland area of rolling farmland with occasional wooded valleys and areas of grazing, having a moorland ''feel'' on more exposed hill tops;

whilst the topography varies the landscape has similar characteristics throughout; and

open borrowed views of the Preseli Hills to the west and further borrowed views northwards to the coast add to the sense of place within the Aspect Area.

5.4.8. The landscape aspect has a moderate sense of place and is considered to be of moderate value due the basic pattern of open rolling farmland that is typical of much of Pembrokeshire. The attractive upland nature adds to the perceived value.

5.4.9. The constantly changing landscape reflects the varied ownership pattern. It is in fair condition, which is reflected by the mixed farmland landscape with a wide range of management regimes applied by the individual landowners with a resultant variation in management quality.

Historic Landscape

5.4.10. The historic landscape aspect area of ‘TegrynStar’ (PMBRKHL46141) is defined by LANDMAP as Irregular Fieldscapes (Level 3). The key characteristics of this aspect area include:

• a varied enclosure pattern with large, irregular fields and mainly small informal farms;

• it is a largely treeless landscape, but wooded valleys belonging to other aspect areas extend into the area;

• numerous modern roads cross the area, as does a disused railway;

• there are some nucleations and a scatter of individual dwellings and cottages across the area;

• the isolated landmark of the medieval church at Clydau is the only listed building;

• a Bronze age round barrow is the only Scheduled Ancient Monument in the area; and

• other recorded archaeology is mainly represented by

findspots and documented sites, but there is a round barrow, a bronze age cremation cemetery, two early Christian monuments at Clydau, and disused postmedieval quarries and gravel pits.

5.4.11. Despite the constantly changing use of the landscape aspect, it is in a fair condition and is afforded a moderate landscape value that is improving.

Cultural Landscape

5.4.12. The cultural landscape aspect area ‘Crymych’ (PMBRKCL482) is defined by LANDMAP as Language (Level 4). The key characteristics of this aspect area include:

• a number of small villages are found within its boundaries, including rural settlements and former industrial communities;

• focus of Welsh language cultural activity during 20th century;

• strong Welsh cultural heritage;

• recent opening of TheatryGromlech.

5.4.13. Despite the decline in local industry, the landscape aspect is high in value due to its cultural importance. Although in decline, the cultural landscape is considered to be in fair condition.

Local Landscape Character

5.4.14. The field survey carried out by ADAS has confirmed that the landscape character of the proposed site and surrounding area has the landscape characteristics explored below.

5.4.15. The local landscape exhibits a strong sense of enclosure as a result of the steeply undulating topography. The intimacy of the wooded valleys carry fast flowing rocky streams and winding roads leading up the steep valley sides.

5.4.16. Out of the valleys, the landscape is much more open. Grazing

pastures separated by well maintained hedgerows, often on hedgerow banks dominate the valley sides and hill tops. Tall hedgerows on top of hedgerow banks line roads, bridleways and footpaths, creating a sense of enclosure when travelling through the area. The hedgerows and belts of trees provide boundaries that divide the irregular fields into an organised pattern that is dictated by the undulating topography.

5.4.17. The tended landscape is dominated by grazing pasture and has a low percentage of arable land. The small scale settlements in the area reflect the rural nature of the landscape. Residential properties, although mainly grouped in sparsely populated villages, have large amounts of space. Many buildings have numerous outbuildings and agricultural buildings.

5.4.18. Hedgerow trees are common in the hedgerows and hedgebanks, with belts of mature trees lining watercourses. The high number of mature trees adds to the level of enclosure that the undulating landscape provides. Valleys are isolated from adjacent valleys by the relatively high levels of landscape enclosure that the topography provides. The uniformity of the landscape is repeated in adjacent valleys although the quality of the management regimes varies due to the high number of land owners. Some hedgerows are well maintained while others have grown into belts of trees.

5.4.19. The small scale of the landscape adds to the tranquillity that the extremely rural environment brings. There are low levels of movement through the area and the majority of people using the landscape are local.

Landscape within the Scheme Area

5.4.20. The landscape within the scheme area is versatile farmland that is sometimes used for arable or silage production but is currently grazing pasture. The field is bordered by well maintained hedgerows and sits adjacent to fields in similar rotations.

5.4.21. The upland location of the site gives it a relatively open although indistinct character. The small to medium sized fields are indicative of the managed local landscape and although enclosed by hedgerows, allows a sense of openness.

Approved Turbines within a 5km Radius

5.4.22. Planning permission has been approved for six turbines in the Clydau area (at time of assessment). These approved applications are all for small turbines. The applications are all fairly well dispersed so will not combine to form a coherent landscape element, instead, they will remain as individual landscape features. Four of the applications are for single turbines and one application is for a cluster of two turbines at Fronglyd. All the turbines are shown in relation to the proposed turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain in Figure 5.4, and listed in the table below. Table 16: Approved Turbine Planning Applications in the Clydau Area

Application Location Number of Height to Blade Tip number Turbines

11/0328/PA Land southeast of 1 34.2m PantgwynBach

10/1001/PA Garreglewyd 1 56m

11/0287/PA Land southeast of Fronglyd 2 45.0m

11/0424/PA Land southwest of Bethel 1 26m Cottage

11/0429/PA TyddynYrEglwys 1 20m

5.4.23. The enclosed nature of the landscape and the intimate scale means that only local applications have been considered.

62 223000 224000 225000 226000 227000 228000 229000 230000 Resolved Renewables 237000 237000 Proposed Wind Turbine Land South West of Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire

Figure 5.4 Approved Wind Turbines Tyddyn yr Eglwys 236000 236000 Proposed wind turbine at Land South West of Llwyndrain Approved wind turbines 235000 235000

Land South West of Llwyndrain 234000 234000

Garreg-lwyd 233000 233000

Fronglyd 1 Fronglyd 2 Pantgwyn Bach 232000 232000 Drawn by Andy Frost 07/02/2012, Verified by Rob Griffiths 08/02/2012

Bethel Cottage - 0 0.5 1 1.5 2

Kilometres Scale 1:25,000 at A3 size This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright 231000 231000 and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. ADAS Licence no. AL100020033 February 2012 For reference purposes only. No further copies may be made

ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 223000 224000 225000 226000 227000 228000 229000 230000 Produced by ADAS Environment Group, Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ.

5.5. Landscape Impact Assessment

Magnitude of Change

5.5.1. The proposed development of a single wind turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain will give rise to impacts upon the landscape character of the local area during both the construction and operational phases of development.

Construction Phase

5.5.2. The short term nature of the construction phase will minimise any landscape impacts experienced. The construction period is anticipated to be approximately two months. Temporary landscape effects at the construction stage will occur again during the decommissioning stage.

5.5.3. The construction phase of the development will have a minor adverse impact upon the landscape character of the local area. The increased levels of traffic that will result from the construction activities and the excavation works will cause the temporary impacts upon the movement, balance, form and management of the landscape.

Operational Phase

5.5.4. The fully reversible change to the landscape during the operational phase of the scheme will impact upon different landscape receptors at varying levels.

5.5.5. The single wind turbine will cause no change to the management of the landscape in the long term as the surrounding land can be used for arable production or put to pasture once the reinstatement works are complete. The wind turbine will increase the variety of landscape elements that are present, causing a minor adverse impact upon the pattern texture and form of the landscape.

5.5.6. The main effects upon landscape character will result from the operation of the wind turbine. New vertical structures with moving

elements will be introduced which, due to the size and scale, can potentially be perceived over a wide area. Locating the substation at the foot of the turbine will combine the elements and limit the introduction of new features to the landscape as the turbine and substation will form one feature in the landscape rather than two. Landscape effects are summarised in Table 17. Table 17: Landscape Effects

Receptor Description of Impact

Geological Landscape The proposed scheme will cause no change to the stream dissected platform.

The erection of the proposed wind turbine will cause a negligible adverse impact upon the rounded, domed hills that are characteristic of the area.

There will be a no change to the bedrock of the area resulting from the excavations that are required for the proposed scheme.

Landscape Habitat Area The development of the proposed turbine will cause no change to the grassland/arable land that it is situated on due to the level reinstatement that is due to take place.

There will be no change to the fingers of woodland that extend into the area.

Visual and Sensory There will be a minor adverse impact upon the attractive upland location of the proposed wind turbine and the moorland ‘feel’ that it exhibits.

The undulating topography gives rise to high levels of screening but some long distance views. Long distance views of the proposed development are likely to cause a negligible adverse change to the view as it forms part of the wider landscape composition.

The landscape in close proximity to the proposed turbine is likely to experience a moderate adverse change to the basic pattern of the rolling farmland as a result of the movement and scale of the turbine.

Receptor Description of Impact

Historic Landscape The proposed wind turbine will cause no change to the irregular field pattern.

A minor adverse change to the undulating land and steep sided valleys will result from the scheme due to the introduction of a modern structure.

The proposed development is likely to cause a moderate adverse impact upon the setting of Castell Crychydd. There is not anticipated to be any other changes to the archaeology of the local area due to the lack of disturbance of field boundaries, parkland landscapes or known archaeological sites.

Cultural Landscape It is predicted that there will be no change to the setting of the small villages, settlements and former industrial communities as there are few obvious remnants remaining. There is a distinct lack of industry other than farming in the area and limited evidence of significant tourism activities.

The proposed wind turbine will not cause any change to the cultural heritage of the area due to the declining nature of the cultural landscape.

5.5.7. Although the installation of the wind turbine will introduce a new landscape feature, it will not cause any change to the scale, colour or balance of the landscape. The lack of pylons and tall point features in the area means that the introduction of the wind turbine will be one of few recognisable features on the rural landscape.

5.5.8. The introduction of a single turbine will bring an uncharacteristic point feature to the local landscape, causing a minor adverse impact based on the fact that there is an impact on the local landscape which, though not designated, is noted as having attractive qualities. There is in addition, local moderate impacts upon the setting of Castell Crychydd

Decommissioning Phase

5.5.9. The effects on Landscape Character during the decommissioning period will be similar to those during the construction period. There will be an increase in plant and vehicle movements, including cranes, within and around the proposed wind turbine. Some excavation of concrete turbine foundations and the concrete crane pad will be necessary. This activity will cause a negligible adverse change to the tranquillity of the local area.

5.5.10. Upon completion of decommissioning, the landscape will be reinstated to its present status and condition with no change to the original conditions.

Landscape Quality

5.5.11. The quality of the receiving landscape for the proposed development has been assessed as medium. The local landscape exhibits some typical characteristics with strong functions but the local landscape is not distinct in its own right. The landscape is not covered by any designations but has strong links to cultural heritage. The landscape is valued locally by those who live in and work on it but it is not valued at a broader scale due to its commonality.

5.5.12. Culturally important aspects of the landscape have been left to decline. The SAM of Castell Crychydd with shrub planting and clusters of buildings around it detracts from the setting of the earthwork and its quality.

5.5.13. The landscape is not noted for significant levels of tourism (as a result, there are no tourist facilities or public spaces) and although remote, is heavily influenced by management activities. The varied ownership of land gives rise to varying management practices and as a result, varying levels of landscape quality. The proposed addition of a single wind turbine is unlikely to be detrimental to the receiving character type or landscape elements in the area.

Landscape Sensitivity

5.5.14. The sensitivity of the landscape in the vicinity of the proposed development has been assessed as low, although localised landscape sensitivity at Castell Crychydd is considered to be high. The rural nature of the landscape is not designated and contains few features of value that are not common in the area or able to be replaced. Although LANDMAP has identified that the landscape has a strong Welsh cultural heritage, the landscape is in decline and is made up of numerous elements that are easily replaced. There are no obvious signs of cultural heritage and the area has no significant tourism facilities and the cultural elements that are present, such as the motte and bailey castle at Castell Crychydd are in a state of decline.

5.5.15. There is a moderate sense of place which is typical of most of Pembrokeshire. The landscape is mainly used by local residents and land workers. The undulating topography, the lack of tourism and landscape designations means that the landscape is capable of absorbing the proposed development.

Significance of Landscape Effects

5.5.16. With the baseline conditions suggesting that the proposed development would cause a minor adverse magnitude of change to the landscape as a whole and the sensitivity of the landscape determined as low, the significance of the effects upon landscape character that are likely to arise from the installation of a single wind turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain is deemed to be slight. It is considered that there will be more local impacts upon Castell Crychydd where the significance of effects is likely to be Moderate.

Cumulative Landscape Effects

5.5.17. There are five planning applications approved for wind turbines in the Clydau area (at time of assessment) shown in Table 16. The approved applications are all single turbines, apart from one application, which is for two turbines. All of the turbines have a hub height of below 50m apart from the two turbine application, where the turbines would have a hub height of just over 50m.

5.5.18. The introduction of these new landscape features will cause a minor adverse change to the character of the landscape by increasing the number of point features. The varying heights and styles of the turbines means that they will not form a coherent landscape feature themselves and the undulating landscape creates a strong element of separation between the various sites.

5.5.19. The low sensitivity of the landscape and the lack of designation means that the significance of the cumulative landscape impacts that may arise from the proposed erection of a single turbine alongside the previously approved turbines is assessed as slight adverse.

Summary of Landscape Effects

5.5.20. The proposed erection of a wind turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain will cause a minor adverse impact upon the landscape character of the area and due to its proximity to Castell Cryshydd a more local moderate adverse impact upon the setting of the SAM. The existing features of the landscape are strongly influenced by agriculture and the heavily managed landscape will be able to accommodate change.

5.5.21. Point features of other wind turbine applications will increase the diversity of the landscape. The erection of the turbine will increase the sense of movement that is experienced in the local area. However, there is a growing public awareness that the presence of wind turbines is a sign of modernised energy provision that carries a positive perception. The sensitivity of the landscape is determined to be low.

5.5.22. Construction works including the base, crane pad, access track and substation will not involve a loss of trees or hedges. There is potentially a need to trim back the hedges at both the point where the site access leaves the public road and to ensure visibility is maximised between the two fields that the site access passes through. Please see Chapter 7 for further information. The construction works will not cause any changes to the topography of the local area or damage any habitats.

5.5.23. The significance of effect on local landscape character including any cumulative landscape impacts that may arise has been determined as slight adverse.

5.6. Visual Baseline

5.6.1. The proposed development site is situated in a rural location where low levels of vehicular and pedestrian movement take place. The limited number of residential properties in the area and the high levels of screening provided by undulating topography, mature vegetation and hedgerows on hedgebanks limit the majority of visual receptors of the proposed development to transient snapshots.

5.6.2. Where the undulating landform does allow long distance views, open vistas can be experienced but where the receptor is a transient one such as along a road, footpath or bridleway, views change dramatically over short distances.

5.6.3. The narrow and often sunken roads that transect the local area are

lined by tall hedgerows atop hedgebanks. These sunken roads are afforded limited visibility over the surrounding land.

5.6.4. Farm and residential buildings are often well screened by mature vegetation that surrounds them offering a degree of privacy. The area is often subject to low levels of visibility as a result of low cloud and rolling mist.

5.7. Visual Impact Assessment

Extent of Visibility

5.7.1. To establish the potential extent that the proposed turbine would be visible from, a ZTV was produced to show the worst case scenario (Figure 5.1). This ZTV was then used in accordance with desktop survey techniques to determine views that would potentially be significantly impacted upon by the proposed development. Many of the publically accessible locations such as the roads and the bridleways are lined by hedgerows on top of hedgebanks. Views from these sunken lanes are very restricted and are channelled along them. The foreground screening and channelling of views that is characteristic across much of the area means that visibility of the proposed site is relatively well restricted.

5.7.2. Up to 2km – Views of the proposed development are likely to be screened or deflected by large mature trees, hedgebanks and buildings in the foreground. Where clear views are available, the turbine will form a dominant feature in the view. The proposed turbine is shown as being visible from almost all locations within a 2km radius in the ZTV. However, due to a large amount of foreground screening, this visual envelope is significantly reduced. The sunken lanes that are characteristic of the area can be seen in Figure 5.2, VP2 & 3.

5.7.3. 2-5km – Views of the site will be available from upland areas where the turbine will form a key feature rather than a dominant one where views allow the whole turbine to be seen. The areas in which the proposed turbine is anticipated to be visible from are much fewer than within the 2km range and are mainly to the north and west due to heavy vegetative and topographical restrictions on views from the southeast.

5.7.4. 5-15km – Views of the proposed turbine will only be prominent in very clear visibility and will only be seen as part of the wider landscape composition. Views of the turbine that will be available from this area are mainly to the north of the site and are generally limited to the upland areas. There is a potential that long distance views of the proposed turbine might be available on very clear days from the Pembrokeshire National Park. These views of the turbine will not feature prominently in views.

5.7.5. 15-30km – The turbine will only be visible from a small number of potential locations. These views will be very long distance where the proposed turbine would not appear as a feature on the landscape unless searched for by the viewer and in most cases would not cause a reduction in visual amenity.

5.7.6. Desk top and field surveys were used to establish existing important views of and over the site from various receptors. The development site is screened from many receptors by the tall hedges that line roads in the area and belts or pockets of vegetation on the steeply undulating local landscape. These foreground features restrict a large number of views and keep potential visual receptors to a minimum.

5.7.7. Public footpaths and bridleways are mainly used by local residents and workers but are not regionally or nationally important. The low frequency of use and the local provenance of the users means that where the footpaths do exhibit views over the proposed site, they are temporary in nature and only local in significance.

Visual Receptors

5.7.8. There are many scattered dwellings and potential visual receptors that will be impacted upon as a result of the visual impact assessment (see Table 19). Individual properties have been considered as part of the nearest settlement. Table 18: Visual Effects

Receptor Description of Impact Sensitivity Magnitude Significance of of Effects Change

Up to 2km

Settlement The small settlement of residential High Moderate Moderate of properties at Llwyndrain are well screened Adverse Adverse Llwyndrain from the proposed site by the existing vegetation and foreground features. Views may be available from upper floors of the properties and areas of the grounds.

Residential The few residential properties that are High Major Large properties in situated at Clydey have clear views of the Adverse Adverse Clydey proposed turbine site.

St Clydau The Church is well screened by existing Moderate Negligible Neutral Church vegetation in the foreground. This Adverse vegetation also provides visual screening for the church grounds and roads in the immediate vicinity.

Local Roads Views from the majority of local roads within Moderate Minor Slight 2km of the proposed turbine site will be well Adverse Adverse screened by foreground vegetation. There will be transient snapshot views in a number of locations but they will be short in duration and temporary in nature. The local nature of the roads means that only a small volume of traffic uses them.

Receptor Description of Impact Sensitivity Magnitude Significance of of Effects Change

Public There is a strong network of public High Moderate Moderate Footpaths accessibility that crosses the area. Adverse Adverse and Although these paths and bridleways Bridleways combine to form a good distance public access land, they are often lined by hedges or trees on top of hedgebanks, limiting views from them.

2 – 5km

Residential The properties at Capel Iwan cluster on the High Minor Slight properties at hillside over the wooded valley from the Adverse Adverse Capel Iwan proposed turbine site. Many of the properties are screened from views of the turbine site by foreground elements but others will have clear views of the turbine.

Residential The sparse cluster of residential properties High Minor Slight properties at amongst numerous agricultural units, are Adverse Adverse Cilrhedyn well screened from views of the proposed turbine site. The foreground elements of agricultural units and vegetation prevent direct views of the site.

Residential There are three residential properties that High Minor Slight properties at may experience views of the proposed Adverse Adverse Bwlchygroes turbine. The views are from the rear windows of bungalows. Vegetation will reduce the availability of views in summer months and foreground screening prevents views from roads in the area.

Receptor Description of Impact Sensitivity Magnitude Significance of of Effects Change

Settlement A number of residential properties on the High Minor Slight of Tegryn eastern side of the village will have limited Adverse Adverse views of the potential turbine site. The properties themselves and roadside vegetation screen views from roads in the area.

Local Roads Views from roads within 5km of the Moderate Minor Slight proposed site are relatively well screened Adverse Adverse by foreground elements. The undulation of the land and the winding nature of the local roads means that views of the turbine will be limited to temporary snapshot views.

Public The extended network of public High Minor Slight Footpaths accessibility in the area is used by local Adverse Adverse and residents and workers. The routes are Bridleways often lined by hedgerows and hedgebanks, limiting any views of he proposed turbine.

5 – 15km

Pembroke Although snapshot views may be available High Negligible Slight shire of the proposed turbine site from roads and Adverse Adverse National footpaths within the Pembrokeshire Park National Park, the distance and scale of the view means that the turbine will form only a very minor element in the view and will only be visible on very clear days.

5.7.9. Following the desk based survey, Pembrokeshire County Council were asked to comment on potential viewpoint locations but did not provide any guidance. Figure 5.2 shows the locations of the five viewpoints that were selected to represent views of the proposed turbine as a result of the desk and field survey.

5.7.10. The five representative viewpoints were then used to produce photomontages that show how the views would look during the operational phase of the development. The viewpoints and their corresponding photomontages are displayed in Figure 5.3, VP1 – VP5. Due to foreground screening from the sunken lanes and high levels of vegetation coupled with the steeply undulating terrain, there was not considered to be any satisfactory locations for viewpoints in the quadrant southeast from the turbine.

Viewpoint 1 – Castell Crychydd

(See Figure 5.3, VP1)

5.7.11. Views of the turbine will be screened along much of the road by foreground elements such as hedgebanks. Breaks in the hedges will allow snapshots of the visually dominant feature. The scale of the turbine and the movement of the blades will only cause temporary impacts upon the visual amenity of receptors that are travelling along the narrow lane in this location but more permanent effects will be witnessed from the residential properties that line the road at this location. The three residential properties and the public footpath that lie adjacent to the viewpoint are all considered to be high in visual sensitivity.

5.7.12. The wind turbine would become a very dominant feature in views from this location due to its size and elevated location. The enclosed, short distance views that are available in this area will frame the views of the turbine. The movement of the blades and the fact that it would break the skyline of the existing view would increase the visibility of the turbine for transient receptors that may only receive snapshot views of the turbine. The magnitude of change that the proposed turbine is likely to cause is determined as moderate adverse.

5.7.13. The significance of the effects that the proposed wind turbine is likely to give rise to is moderate adverse. There is likely to be a perceptible impact upon the views from residential properties at this

location.

Viewpoint 2 – Rhos y Llyn

(See Figure 5.2, VP2)

5.7.14. The proposed turbine will be screened from view for the majority of receptors at this viewpoint by the mature and semimature vegetation that lines the bridleway in the extended foreground. The visual sensitivity of the potential receptors in this area is considered to be low in sensitivity.

5.7.15. The proposed turbine blades will not be visible above the belt of trees that line the bridleway. As the trees mature further, the movement of the blades will remain screened from view. The enclosed landscape only offers short distance views over the foreground, these views will remain unchanged by the proposed development.

5.7.16. The low visual sensitivity of the area and the high levels of vegetative screening, prevents a large impact on the visual amenity of the area. The significance of the effects that are likely to arise as a result of the proposed turbine have been determined to be neutral.

Viewpoint 3 – Cnwcpoeth

(See Figure 5.3, VP3)

5.7.17. At this location, a wide vista is available of the patchwork fields that form the extent of the view. The upland across the valley forms the extent of the view with a gently varying horizon. The foreground features mean that the transient receptors will only experience temporary visual impacts as a result of the proposed turbine. Views from the footpath are screened by hedgebanks and dense vegetation but the moderate sensitivity of local roads and outdoor workers will experience visual intrusion as a direct result of the turbine installation.

5.7.18. The installation of the proposed turbine will bring a very noticeable new element to the hills that form the extent of views from this location. The turbine will break the skyline and introduce a new element to the view. The magnitude of change that it is likely to cause is determined to be moderate adverse.

5.7.19. The introduction of a single turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain is anticipated to give rise to moderate adverse significance of effects upon the visual amenity in this area.

Viewpoint 4 – Tynewydd

(See Figure 5.3, VP4)

5.7.20. Views from the footpath, bridleway and residential properties in this area are partially screened by vegetation but extended views of hills in the distance are available over the wooded valley. The numerous outbuildings of the farm in the foreground add a sense of clutter to the view. The high visual sensitivity of the area is enhanced by the convergence of a footpath, bridleway and road as well as the direct views that residential properties that are situated behind the viewpoint have over the proposed turbine site.

5.7.21. The installation of the proposed turbine will bring a new element to the view that will be a noticeable element but not dominating. The turbine will pierce the skyline and will cause a moderate adverse change in the composition of the view.

5.7.22. The significance of the effects that the turbine would bring to the visual amenity of the area is likely to be moderate adverse.

Viewpoint 5 – Gelliaur

(See Figure 5.3, VP5)

5.7.23. Views over the wooded valleys allow the upland areas beyond to form a gently undulating skyline. The varying landscape provides a wide vista that facilitates mid range views. The open vista that is available gives the view a large sense of scale. There is a small number of residential properties in the vicinity and Capel Iwan to the east but visibility of the turbine from these properties is predicted to be well screened by foreground vegetation and landform. The low level of public access land in the locality means that there is a moderate visual sensitivity in the area.

5.7.24. The proposed turbine is at such a distance that it forms a barely noticeable feature in the view. It is likely that it would only be visible on clear days and the scale of the view would mean that the turbine forms a minor element of the wider view. It is anticipated the proposed turbine will cause a minor adverse change to the visual amenity of the area.

5.7.25. The significance of the effects on visual amenity that are likely to occur as a result of the proposed turbine are anticipated to be slight adverse. The distance from the site and the transient nature of the majority of receptors that are likely to experience disturbance from the development means that on the whole, intrusion is likely to be temporary in nature and unlikely to be noticed unless deliberately searched for.

Cumulative Visual Impacts

5.7.26. The undulating landscape and varying heights of turbines that have been approved by Pembrokeshire County Council means that cumulative impacts will be kept to a minimum. The intervisiblity of the turbines will be extremely limited due to both the undulating topography and the extent of screening provided by foreground features. Areas where the proposed turbine would theoretically be visible in conjunction with other approved turbines are shown in Figure 5.5. This shows a worst case scenario that does not take into account screening provided by properties, vegetation or localised variations in landform such as the characteristic hedgebanks of the area.

5.7.27. Two main routes that pass through the vicinity are likely to be afforded sequential views of the proposed and approved turbines. Although, neither road is a commuter route and neither carries a high volume of traffic or are designated tourist routes, they are both scenic roads and so have a moderate sensitivity. Travelling between Llanfyrnach and Newcastle Emlyn, receptors are likely to encounter sequential views of the proposed turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain and the approved turbine at Pantgwyn Bach. It is anticipated that the other approved turbines will be screened from view by foreground features that line the road. Due to the length of the route and the high level of screening provided by foreground elements, the cumulative impact upon the visual amenity is likely to be minor.

79 221000 222000 223000 224000 225000 226000 227000 228000 229000 230000 231000 232000 Resolved Renewables

239000 239000 Proposed Wind Turbine Land South West of Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire

Figure 5.5 238000 238000 Cumulative Zone of Visual Impact

Proposed wind turbine at Land South West of Llwyndrain Approved wind turbines 237000 237000 5km buffer Nant y Castell turbine

1 turbine visible

2 turbines visible Tyddyn yr Eglwys 3 turbines visible 236000 236000 4 turbine visible

5 turbines visible

6 turbines visible 235000 235000

Land South West of Llwyndrain 234000 234000

Garreg-lwyd 233000 233000 Fronglyd 1 Fronglyd 2 Pantgwyn Bach

232000 232000 Bethel Cottage

Drawn by Andy Frost 30/03/2012, Verified by Rob Griffiths 30/03/2012 231000 231000 - 0 0.8 1.6 2.4 3.2

Kilometres Scale 1:25,000 at A3 size 230000 230000 This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. ADAS Licence no. AL100020033 March 2012 For reference purposes only. No further copies may be made

ADAS, Woodthorne, Wergs Road, 229000 229000 Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ. Tel 01902 754190. Fax 01902 743602 221000 222000 223000 224000 225000 226000 227000 228000 229000 230000 231000 232000 Produced by ADAS Environment Group, Wolverhampton. WV6 8TQ.

5.7.28. When travelling between Bwlchygroes and the B4299, it is anticipated that receptors will be subject to sequential views of the proposed turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain and three other approved turbines. Snapshot views of the turbines at Fronglyd, Garreglwyd and TyddynYrEglwys may be available at some locations along the route. The cumulative impact that the receptors are likely to experience as a result of the proposed turbine is determined to be minor.

5.7.29. Although Figure 5.5, shows large areas where more than one turbine will be visible, the intervisibility of the proposed turbine and approved turbines in the area is predicted to be low due to localised screening. The undulating landscape with steep valley sides and the transient nature of the majority of visual receptors means that both landform and vegetation will prevent cumulative snapshot views of turbines from all but a handful of locations where views will be temporary. The area is considered to have a moderate sensitivity to cumulative views. With a lack of existing focal point features on the landscape, the cumulative impacts of adjacent turbines will have minor adverse impact upon views in the area.

5.7.30. The majority of cumulative views in the area will be short in duration and temporary in nature. The significance of the impacts that are likely to arise as a result of a proposed turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain when considered alongside the approved turbines in the area is deemed to be slight adverse.

Summary of Visual Impacts

5.7.31. The proposed development is expected to be most visible from locations within a 2km radius. In this area, the proposed turbine will form a dominant feature in views where it is visible.

5.7.32. With the majority of the visual receptors being of local provenance and temporary in nature, the visual sensitivity of the area has been determined as moderate. The potential views from residential properties vary in significance due to distance, existing foreground screening and the direction in which the windows face. The anticipated visual impacts of the turbine have only been assessed from ground level. It is possible that visual impacts experienced from elevated locations such as first and second floors could be perceived to be larger.

5.7.33. The local landform and high levels of vegetation that provide valuable visual screening of the proposed development site mean that the magnitude of change that is predicted to result from the proposed development is moderate adverse, although there are localised impacts such as those that residential properties in Clydey that are expected to experience that may be large adverse. The varying topography and the low level of movement throughout the area mean that there are a low number of visual receptors and that they are significantly reduced in areas further away from the turbine site. The majority of visual receptors are within 5km of the proposed turbine site.

5.7.34. With the low number of potential visual receptors that will receive visual intrusion resulting from the proposed turbine, the significance that the effects of the proposed development will cause on the visual amenity of the local area is determined to be slight adverse. However, there may be localised visual impacts that appear to be higher as a result of gaps in vegetation or glimpsed views along footpaths or roads.

5.8. Design Optimisation

5.8.1. A number of aspects of the proposed development have been designed into the scheme works in order to reduce any landscape impacts that the proposed turbine is likely to cause. These include:

• reinstatement of the ground conditions once the excavation and construction works are complete for the turbine base;

• reinstatement of ground conditions once the excavation for the grid connection is complete;

• routing of the grid connection to prevent the need for hedge removal;

• routing of the access track to follow the existing farm access track and use of existing entrances to minimise hedge removal/ trimming; and

• placement of all grid connection cabling underground.

5.8.2. To reduce any effects of development, the following mitigation measures have been proposed:

• retention and maintenance of existing hedges around the site as far as possible; and

• allow hedges around turbine and substation to grow to a minimum height of 3m.

5.9. Conclusion

5.9.1. The assessment of potential impacts to both landscape character and visual amenity of the area were carried out as detailed in the methodology and in accordance with the relevant guidelines. Impacts of the proposed development have been identified and given a significance weighting.

5.9.2. The proposed erection of a single wind turbine at land south west of Llwyndrain is expected to have a minor adverse impact upon landscape character (although moderate adverse impacts upon

Castell Crychydd) as a single feature and when considered in conjunction with other turbines in the local area. The low sensitivity of the landscape means that it has the capacity to absorb the impacts that may arise as a result of the proposal.

5.9.3. Constructing the access track along the line of hedgerows and existing farm tracks, where possible, and then reinstating the existing ground conditions after construction will help to minimise landscape impacts. The significance of the effects upon landscape character of the turbine is considered to be slight adverse.

5.9.4. The varying topography in the area and the high level of screening provided by foreground elements such as hedgerows and hedgebanks coupled with the low level of movement in the area and lack of designation means that there are a relatively low number of visual receptors but the visual sensitivity of the area is considered to be moderate.

5.9.5. The operational phase of the turbine is anticipated to cause a moderate adverse magnitude of change to visual amenity of the locality. The significance of effects that the proposed turbine will cause to the visual amenity of the area is slight adverse.

5.9.6. The cumulative impacts that arise from the proposed turbine’s visibility considered alongside previously approved turbines in close proximity are anticipated to be slight adverse due to sequential views.

5.9.7. The proposed design optimisation measures will go some way to minimising the impacts that the turbine and associated development will have upon the landscape character of the local area and ensure that residual impacts are kept to a minimum. When the proposed turbine reaches the end of its lifespan, it can be removed along with the substation and access track to leave no deviation from the baseline landscape and visual conditions.

5.9.8. The impact assessment was undertaken in the summer months

when foliage levels are high. However, the impacts are not expected to be greater in the preferred winter months when leaf fall provides a worst case scenario.

84 6. ARCHAEOLOGY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE

6.1. Introduction

Planning Background and Objectives

6.1.1. Headland Archaeology (UK) Ltd was commissioned by ADAS Ltd to produce a cultural heritage assessment for a proposed wind turbine development site at land south west of Llwyndrain, Pembrokeshire. Cultural heritage is here taken to include:

• Designated assets, including scheduled monuments, listed buildings, conservation areas, historic landscapes and parks and gardens; and

• Undesignated assets that are of value because of their archaeological or historical interest.

Site Location and Description

6.1.2. The proposed turbine is located at National Grid Ref SN 26131 34158 and the area studied is approximately 0.68ha (see Figure 6.1 for study area). The site is close to the hamlet of Llwyndrain, and is currently used for pasture. It is bounded by hedges separating it from other pasture fields. It lies around 120m OD and rises to the southeast. The study area is crossed by overhead lines on wooden poles.

The site is underlain by Nantmel Mudstone Formation dating to the Ashgill period and no superficial geological deposits have been mapped in this location (British Geological Survey website; http://www.bgs.ac.uk).

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This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. ADAS Licence no. AL100020033 December 2011. For reference purposes only, no further copies may be made. Figure 6.1: Heritage Assets

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Objectives of this Chapter

6.1.3. In general, the purpose of this chapter is to provide sufficient evidence for confident prediction of the impact of the proposal by establishing the extent, nature and importance of any heritage assets within the affected area, and assessing the effect of the proposed development upon the setting of any nearby heritage assets (following Planning Policy Wales Chapter 6: Conserving the Historic Environment, 20142).

6.1.4. More specific aims of the assessment were:

• To assess the potential for, and likely significance of, previously unrecorded subsurface archaeological remains in the proposed development area; and

• To identify assets in the surrounding area that may be subject to setting impacts.

National Policy Framework

6.1.5. Planning Policy Wales (PPW) sets out the land use planning policies of the Welsh Assembly Government (the Assembly Government).

6.1.6. Chapter 6 of PPW (2014), Conserving the Historic Environment states that: ‘it is important that the historic environment encompassing archaeology and ancient monuments, listed buildings, conservation areas and historic parks, gardens and landscapes is protected. The Welsh Government’s objectives in this field are to:

• preserve or enhance the historic environment, recognising its contribution to economic vitality and culture, civic pride and the quality of life, and its importance as a resource for future generations; and specifically to protect archaeological remains, which are a finite and nonrenewable resource,

2 The original assessment followed PPW, 2011 and the Pembrokeshire JUDP. However, the impacts have been reassessed by ADAS in the context of PPW (2014) and the Pembrokeshire LDP. It should be noted that very little of the policy text in PPW on the historic environment changed between the 2011 and 2014 versions.

part of the historical and cultural identity of Wales, and valuable both for their own sake and for their role in education, leisure and the economy, particularly tourism;

• ensure that the character of historic buildings is safeguarded from alterations, extensions or demolition that would compromise a building’s special architectural and historic interest; and to

• ensure that conservation areas are protected or enhanced, while at the same time remaining alive and prosperous, avoiding unnecessarily detailed controls over businesses and householders.’

6.1.7. Conservation does not mean that no change may be permitted; planning policy and guidance in fact is largely concerned with the management of change to our historic environment in an intelligent and sustainable fashion. In order to make sensible decisions whether to allow change to historic assets (comprising below ground remains, built heritage, landscape/setting issues), planning authorities must be provided with and take into account information describing the nature of the significance of the assets involved, the impact which the proposed development is likely to have on the historic assets, and any loss of significance which that impact may cause. It is possible to design mitigation schemes to address and offset loss of significance, and mitigation schemes are usually secured via conditions on planning consent.

Local Policy Framework

6.1.8. Th development plan comprises the LDP (2013). There is just one specific policy in the LDP relating to cultural heritage: ‘GN.38 Protection and Enhancement of the Historic Environment

Development that affects sites and landscapes of architectural and/or historical merit or archaeological importance, or their setting,

will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that it would protect or enhance their character and integrity.’

Research Frameworks

6.1.9. The archaeological research frameworks comprise an assessment of strengths, weaknesses and biases in the record of known heritage assets, along with a research agenda and strategy for future work to address these imbalances. These documents are used by the relevant archaeological curators when considering the impact of proposed developments and to guide the level of work required to investigate archaeological potential and to mitigate impacts.

6.1.10. In Wales the first stage of research framework process involved the production of four regional resource audits that aimed to identify the nature and extent of the known archaeological database by a compilation of published or accessible data. These audits were funded by Cadw: Welsh Historic Monuments and they were undertaken by the four Welsh Archaeological Trusts during the summer of 2002. The second stage involved the production of a research assessment that was based on an examination of the archaeological resource in order to evaluate strengths, weaknesses and biases in the record. The final stage of the process – the development of a research agenda and a research strategy – was undertaken during 20034. This took the form of a series of followup meetings based on the outcomes of the research assessment and a national seminar. The aim of this seminar was to establish a national agenda for each of the major chronological periods and themes already outlined at a regional level. The papers prepared for each of these talks are available online (www.archaeoleg.org.uk).

6.2. Method Statement

Data gathering

6.2.1. Three areas have been used in assembling and presenting the data (Error! Reference source not found., 6.1): The Proposed Development Area: this takes in the area potentially subject to direct impact from the proposed development.

The Inner Study Area: this extends 1km from the development area and has been used to gather background data to inform the assessment of the development area’s archaeological potential.

The Outer Study Area: this extends 2km fro the development area. Data for this area has been gathered in order to identify designated assets that may be subject to setting impacts.

6.2.2. High grade listed buildings (I and II*) and Scheduled Monuments within 5km of the development area were also considered to identify any whose setting extends to the proposed development. Such assets have only been detailed in this report where this is potentially the case.

6.2.3. In carrying out this assessment, the cultural significance of assets has been considered in relation to the following categories of cultural value, as provided by Cadw (2011): Evidential Value deriving from the potential of a place to yield evidence about past human activity;

Historical Value deriving from the ways in which past people, events and aspects of life can be connected through a place to the present;

Aesthetic Value deriving from the ways in which people draw sensory and intellectual stimulation from a place; and,

Communal Value deriving from the meanings of a place for the people who relate to it; their collective experience or memory.

6.2.4. The overall cultural significance of any given asset relates to a combination of these values, though it is rare for all the values to be relevant. This approach is in keeping with the principles that underlie PPW Chapter 6 (Welsh Government 2014). However, it should be noted that this approach is not policy, but a tool to aid analysis.

6.2.5. The above values have been used to identify the overall cultural significance of assets. This may be: Very High: assets of exceptional significance that may be valued internationally

High: Assets that are of importance at a national scale. These are frequently designated, e.g. scheduled or listed, but may be undesignated.

Moderate: Assets that are of importance at a regional scale

Low: Assets that are of importance at a local scale.

Negligible: Very poorly preserved or extremely common assets that are unlikely to be valued at any scale.

6.2.6. Effects are described in terms of the development’s affect on the asset’s cultural significance and the extent to which it will degrade or enhance the asset’s significance.

6.2.7. This assessment is based on information collected from: Cadw’s list of statutory and nonstatutory designated sites;

the National Monuments Record of Wales;

the local Historic Environment Record curated by Dyfed Archaeological Trust;

various historic and modern map sources;

readily available published sources;

a site visit; and,

Aerial photographs held at the National Monuments Record of Wales.

6.2.8. Relevant assets and records are illustrated on the accompanying plan (Figure 6.1) and listed in Appendix 6.1.

6.3. Heritage Assessment

Archaeological and Historical Background of Study Area

Prehistory

6.3.1. There is scant evidence for human activity in Wales before the last glaciation, with the settlement distribution showing a bias towards caves in the Palaeolithic period and the Pembrokeshire coast in the Mesolithic period (www.archaeoleg.org.uk).

6.3.2. Pembrokeshire was an important centre of Bronze and Iron Age culture and the region is characterised by numerous Neolithic and Bronze Age funerary and religious monuments, and Iron Age defended sites, though the settlement pattern is poorly understood for all periods (www.archaeoleg.org.uk).

6.3.3. The study area contains evidence of prehistoric activity in the form of the CarnyFran bronzeage round barrow (2). A number of other (scheduled) barrows are known from the wider area, between 2 and 5km from the proposed turbine, suggesting that the study area and its environs saw a substantial degree of Bronze Age activity.

Roman

6.3.4. It is generally accepted that Late Iron Age southwest Wales consisted of small scale societies with limited access to surplus resources, less likely to invest in durable expressions of their culture with the result that we are left with little evidence of identifiable Roman influence. Military sites relating to the Roman

occupation have been well investigated, but the rural hinterlands (including the study area) have not been as well studied (www.archaeoleg.org.uk).

Medieval

6.3.5. The Early Medieval period in Wales is characterised by the emergence of distinct regional kingdoms, including Dyfed in which the study area is located. Irish and Scandinavian invasions influenced the development of Pembrokeshire, and many Scandinavian placenames survive along the coast, such as Caldey Island, Skomer and Blackholm.

6.3.6. The study area contains evidence of medieval occupation in the form of Cwm Pedran, the site of a medieval watermill (9), and Castell Crychydd motte and bailey castle (1).

Postmedieval and Modern

6.3.7. Pembrokeshire remained mainly rural, with small fishing and whaling industries, during the Industrial Revolution and remains predominantly rural today. The main agricultural activity is dairy farming, though arable agriculture and forestry are also practiced.

6.3.8. The study area has been predominantly small enclosed pastures since at least 1890, and has seen little change. Supply of water was important to the land use in the study area, as evidenced by water control structures and a well associated with a building near Drygolsgoch farm (58 inclusive) and place name evidence of a postmedieval well (11) 300m south of the proposed development area. A few small “old quarries” are shown on the 1891 map within the study area including one at Drysgolgoch farm and at Bwllyffin farm to the northwest of the proposed development area (the latter had been abandoned by 1953).

Historic Landscape Character

6.3.9. The proposed development site is approximately 6km from the nearest Landscape of Special Historic Interest, Lower Teifi Valley, included in the Register of Landscapes of Historic Interest in Wales. The Drefach and Felindre Landscape of Special Historic Interest is approximately 7km to the east, and the Preseli Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest is approximately 8.5km to the west.

6.3.10. The general area is characterised by small pasture fields enclosed by hedges of some antiquity, the heavily wooded valleys of the Afon Pedran to the east of the study area and Afon Cneifa to the northwest of the study area and their tributaries, and by scattered farms and small hamlets linked by sunken lanes running between embanked hedges.

6.3.11. Historic mapping and aerial photographs show that the area has changed little since the 1890s, with limited field boundary loss in the late 20th century (including boundary change within the proposed development area since 1984) and occasional new buildings at the farms and within the settlements. There has also been a loss of industry in the study area, for example the building and water control structures shown on the 1890 map (58 inclusive) and the loss of Bwllyffin farm.

6.3.12. The proposed development would comprise a highly visible new structure within a rural landscape with few prominent landmarks.

Archaeological Remains within the Proposed Development Area

6.3.13. The absence of known archaeological remains within the study area should be treated with caution, as the lack of development pressure means that structured archaeological interventions have not taken place, and only upstanding monuments or sites on the First Edition Ordnance Survey map have been recorded to date.

6.3.14. The proposed development area comprises a pasture field, formerly two fields until a hedgerow was removed in the late 20th century. There is potential for medieval or earlier remains to be present, which could be wellpreserved as the site has not been subject to deep ploughing.

Potential for Setting Impacts

6.3.15. The proposed development is approximately 500m to the south of the scheduled “Castell Crychydd” (1). This motte and bailey castle is between two clusters of buildings (Penrhiwcastell farm and the house known as Castell). As a structure built for defence against and/or suppression or control of the local population, the views of and from the castle contribute to its significance. Planted shrubs serve to give an impression of the earthwork as landscaping within the garden of Castell, particularly when viewed from the road to the south (photo 1 in Appendix 6.2), impacting negatively on the monument’s significance as they render it difficult to appreciate the form and function of the earthworks. The earthwork and its setting overlooking the road to Llwyndrain and the adjacent fields is more easily appreciated from the public footpath passing to the north (photo 2 in Appendix 6.2) from which the proposed turbine will also be visible. The castle is not easily discernable from views in the wider landscape due to the hedges that form almost all the field boundaries in this area.

6.3.16. Pantygollen is a Grade II listed building approximately 750m to the southeast of the proposed development, it is a postmedieval farmhouse and its setting is the complex of later farm buildings around it and its rural setting, particularly the steepsided valley to the east after which the farm gets its name meaning hazel hollow or valley

(http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/oswebsite/freefun/didyouknow/pl acenames/docs/welsh_guide.pdf). This setting will not be affected by the proposed development.

6.3.17. Seven scheduled barrows, a standing stone and a defended enclosure are located between two and five kilometres to the south and southeast of the proposed development, the setting of these prehistoric heritage assets is their location in currently ungrazed areas of upland moors affording wide views across the surrounding modern landscape of enclosed fields with scattered farms and hamlets as well as larger settlements, the changes to the landscape between the Bronze Age and the present is readily appreciated. The proposed development would comprise an additional change within this palimpsest landscape.

6.3.18. The cluster of listed buildings within the Registered Park at Ffynone has a designated “essential setting” which is confined by the woodland and high ground to the southeast of the buildings. This setting does not extend to the proposed development. Likewise the setting of the Grade II* listed Lancych house does not extend beyond its immediate surroundings of the slopes of the Afon Cych valley as the house, though large, was constructed in the “cottage style” and was not intended to have key vistas.

6.3.19. The setting of the Grade II* listed Capel y Graig and attached school building is the settlement of Tegryn, with its varied architectural forms and dates, the chapel having been built for the local community in the 19th century, this setting does not include the proposed development area.

6.3.20. The two listed buildings at Clydai the Church of St Clydai (12) and its Lychgate (13) – are situated within woodland in the Cwm Cneifa valley. It is this isolated and hidden setting which contributes to the assets’ significance and this would not be altered by the proposed turbine.

Discussion

6.3.21. The proposed development will be visible within the setting of the scheduled motte and bailey Castell Crychydd (see also Chapter 5 LVIA). Although it will be a modern structure within an area that

has seen little change since the 19th century and may be little altered in character since at least the medieval period, it will have limited impact on the setting of the castle which is already surrounded on two sides by postmedieval buildings. Overhead services and pylons across the fields also detract from the general first impression of an unchanging landscape.

6.4. Identification and Significance of Heritage Assets

Known Heritage Assets

6.4.1. Appendix 6.1 lists the known Heritage Assets within the study area, Table 19 below lists those relevant to the proposed development, including the scheduled Castell Crychydd and the Grade IIlisted Pantygollen farm. The CarnyFran barrow provides evidence of Bronze Age activity within the study area, and the Cwm Pedran watermill provides evidence of medieval settlement within the study area.

Table 19: Heritage Assets relevant to the Proposed Development Description of Heritage Asset Significance of Heritage Asset (High, Medium, Low, Negligible) Castell Crychydd SAM High Pantygollen Medium CarnyFran Low Cwm Pedran Low

Potential Archaeological Assets

6.4.2. The proposed development area has some potential for remains of medieval or earlier date, which are likely to be well preserved if present. The presence of barrows within the study area and slightly further afield, along with Castell Crychydd and the site of a medieval mill within the study area, suggests that the most likely periods to be represented are the Bronze Age and the medieval period. However, as settlement patterns and landuse until the post medieval period is poorly understood in the region, any medieval or earlier remains would be of at least regional significance according

to the Research Framework for Wales.

Table 20: Potential for Heritage Asset Description of Potential Significance of Potential Potential for it to Occur Within the Heritage Asset Heritage Asset (High, Development Area (High, Medium, Medium, Low, Negligible) Low, Negligible) Remains associated with Medium Medium medieval settlement/activity Remains associated with Medium Low Roman or Iron age settlement/activity Remains associated with Medium Medium Bronze age settlement/activity Remains associated with High Negligible Neolithic or earlier settlement/activity 6.5. Consultation

6.5.1. In the process of producing this assessment, Charles Hill of Dyfed Archaeological Trust was consulted to confirm the appropriateness of the study areas and regarding the setting of heritage assets as well as the potential for currently unknown archaeological remains to survive on the site.

6.6. Mitigation

6.6.1. The proposed development has the potential to impact on any archaeological remains of the medieval and earlier periods that may be present on the site. The likelihood of finding such remains is at present uncertain due to the lack of previous archaeological work in the study area, but the small construction footprint of the development minimises the likelihood of any impact occurring. Any such remains could be of regional significance in increasing understanding of changing settlement patterns within Pembrokeshire. The impact on any such remains could be mitigated through archaeological monitoring of groundworks (a watching brief) secured through a planning condition.

6.6.2. The proposed development would result in a minor change to the setting of the scheduled Castell Crychydd. It is unlikely that any

mitigation would be necessary.

6.7. Summary

6.7.1. The proposed development has the potential to impact on currently unrecorded archaeological remains of the medieval and earlier periods that may be present on the site. Currently recorded Bronze Age and medieval remains within the study area (including an undesignated barrow and watermill and the scheduled Castell Crychydd) indicate that remains of these periods are the most likely to be found on the site. Any such remains could be of regional significance in increasing understanding of changing settlement patterns within Pembrokeshire. This impact will be mitigated through archaeological monitoring of groundworks.

6.7.2. The proposed development would also result in an appreciable change to the setting of the scheduled Castell Crychydd, however, this change is unlikely to substantively affect the cultural value of the asset.

7. ECOLOGY

7.1. Introduction

7.1.1. An ecological constraints survey was undertaken by ADAS UK Ltd. to identify any potential ecological constraints and whether any additional survey is required.

7.1.2. Technical Advice Note (TAN) 5: Nature Conservation and Planning provides advice on how the planning system should contribute to protecting and enhancing biodiversity and geological conservation (Welsh Assembly Government, 2009). It addresses how nature conservation should be considered within planning applications and recommends that the information submitted with the planning application is proportional to the likelihood and significance of impacts on nature conservation. TAN 5 provides further guidance on the consideration of designated site, protected species and priority habitats and species.

Local Planning Policy

7.1.3. Table 21 contains the most relevant policy within the LDP with regard to nature conservation. Table 21: Nature Conservation Policies Policy Policy Number

LDP Policy All development should demonstrate a positive approach to maintaining GN.37 and, wherever possible, enhancing biodiversity. Development that would Protection disturb or otherwise harm protected species or their habitats, or the and integrity of other habitats, sites or features of importance to wildlife and Enhancement individual species, will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances of where the effects are minimised or mitigated through careful design, Biodiversity work scheduling or other appropriate measures.

7.2. Methodology

Guidance

7.2.1. In the absence of specific Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) guidance on single or small scale wind energy developments with regard to nature conservation, guidance from Scottish Natural Heritage and Natural England has been used3: Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), (2008). Natural Heritage assessment of small scale wind energy projects which do not require formal Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA);

Natural England, (2009). Technical Information Note TIN059 – Bats and Single Large Wind Turbines: Joint Agencies Interim Guidance (Joint Agencies Publication).

7.2.2. Natural England guidance states that surveys should be undertaken where the proposed turbine is within 50m of suitable bat habitat features or sites designated for bats:

“A bat survey should normally be recommended for applications for turbines that will be located within 50 m of the following features:

• buildings or other features or structures that provide potential as bat roosts, including bridges, mines etc;

• woodland;

• hedgerows;

• rivers or lakes; and

• within or adjacent to a site designated for bats (SSSI or SAC) (but please note more extensive work will be required at such sites than is recommended in this document).”

7.2.3. The proposed turbine is not located within 50m of any features suitable for bats and therefore no dedicated bat survey has been undertaken.

3 These documents represent the most up to date guidance at the time of assessment.

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