Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

OLD SARUM AIRFIELD, SALISBURY, WILTSHIRE.

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR RESIDENTIAL AND AIRFIELD DEVELOPMENT

On behalf of

WILTSHIRE COUNCIL

July 2018

REF: 18.727

REV:

WH Landscape Consultancy Ltd Sandcliffe House Northgate Street Devizes Wilts SN10 1JT

t: 01380 727539 e: [email protected] APPOINTMENT

WH Landscape Consultancy Ltd (WHLandscape) has been appointed by Wiltshire Council to undertake a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) to provide supporting evidence for the Public Inquiry into its refusal to grant planning permission for the proposed residential development, moving of the grass runway, and construction of new airfield buildings on land at Old Sarum Airfield.

WHLandscape has an established track record of assessing development proposals. The Practice has considerable experience in the field of landscape and visual assessment and uses tried and tested techniques developed and recognised by the Landscape Institute, Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, and Natural England.

This LVIA has been undertaken by: Will Harley BSc (Hons) CMLI

Checked by: George Harley BA (Hons) MA CMLI

This document has been prepared in accordance with the scope of WHLandscape’s appointment with its client and is subject to the terms and conditions of that appointment.

WHLandscape accepts no liability for any use of this document other than by its client and only for the purposes for which it was prepared and provided.

If received electronically it is the recipient’s responsibility to print any plans within this document to the correct scale. Refer to written dimensions where provided.

© Copyright WH Landscape Consultancy Ltd. This document is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of WHLandscape.

CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

2. SCOPE AND ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

3. LANDSCAPE PLANNING CONTEXT

4. BASELINE LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL STUDY

5. LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT

6. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

7. REFERENCES

ILLUSTRATIVE MATERIAL

FIG. 1 LOCATION PLAN

FIG. 2 VERTICAL AERIAL

FIG. 3 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER

FIG. 4 DESIGNATIONS

FIG. 5 TOPOGRAPHY

FIG. 6 ZONE OF THEORETICAL VISIBILITY (ZTV)

FIG. 7 VIEWPOINT PLAN AND WIDER ANALYSIS

FIG. 8 LOCAL LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ANALYSIS

APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: ILLUSTRATIVE MASTERPLAN

APPENDIX 2: VIEWPOINT PHOTOGRAPHS

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 This LVIA provides an assessment of the Landscape and Visual Effects associated with the refused residential development, moving of the grass runway and development of airfield buildings at Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire. The development area red line encompasses the entire airfield, but the gross development area is 22.1ha of a total of 62.3ha of aviation and non-aviation uses. The proposed development covers three primary areas:

Area A is located on an agricultural field currently used for stock grazing on the western edge of the Castlegate part of the Sarum Business Park. To the north the Portway A338 forms the boundary and to the west fields containing pigs form the boundary, separating the site from the A345 and the Old Sarum Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM) beyond. To the south the site borders Old Sarum Airfield. The land slopes downwards from east to west, before rising again towards the western boundary.

Area B is an area of approximately 3.1ha which includes the existing airfield structures, the listed hangars and the airfield facilities and aircraft parking area, as well as the edge of the airfield along its northern boundary. The extent of Area B is Lancaster Road to the north but includes two access points onto the Portway.

Area C comprises an area of north-west to south-east sloping land on the south-eastern -part of the airfield. The land extends from the relatively modern residential estate to the north-west of the historic core of the village of Ford and connects with the Roman Road to the south and Green Lane to the east.

1.2 The proposal is in outline with all matters reserved and is for 18.6ha of residential development accommodating around 462 residential dwellings (Areas A & C). In addition there is provision for a mixture of employment, commercial, leisure and aviation uses, including a ‘flying hub’ on 3.1 ha of land which comprises Area B. Furthermore, the outline proposals included Green Infrastructure provision, cycle and footpath networks, SUDS and vehicular access.

1.3 The site is in the administrative area of Wiltshire Council, specifically Wiltshire Council southern area. The policy context is taken from the National Planning Policy Framework (2018) and the Wiltshire Core Strategy (2015). The baseline landscape character has been taken from Natural England National Character Area Profile (NCA): 132. Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs, with

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire local character information being taken from the Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment (2005) and the Salisbury District Landscape Character Assessment (2008).

1.4 The LVIA involves the following components: • Establishing the scope and methodology of the assessment. • Desk studies and preliminary site surveys. • Baseline analysis of landscape and visual resources, including desk and field surveys. • Identification and assessment of Landscape and Visual Effects. • Recommendations.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire 2. SCOPE AND ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

The LVIA process is based on the following guidance: • Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3rd ed. (GLVIA 3). • Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland.

The LVIA is a tool used to identify and assess the likely Significance of Effects of change resulting from development, both on the landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity. Landscape Effects relate to changes in the landscape character, elements, and features as a result of development. Visual Effects relate to the appearance of development, its effect on specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by users of the landscape. The Nature of Effect as a result of development can be Positive, Adverse or Neutral.

2.1 BASELINE LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL STUDY 2.1.1 The baseline study reviews the existing landscape and visual resources to determine and describe the conditions against which changes resulting from the development can be measured or predicted and assessed. The process comprises three stages, namely a desk study, field survey and baseline analysis. The baseline study helps identify the landscape and visual receptors which are considered susceptible to change as a result of the development and includes description, classification and evaluation. Furthermore, it forms the basis against which to assess the Magnitude of Effect and subsequently, the Significance of Effect of development on landscape and visual resources.

DESK STUDY RESOURCES 2.1.2 The following resources have been used to inform the field survey and the analysis:

Mapping • Ordnance Survey maps and vertical aerial photography • Rights of Way: Public Rights of Way Mapping (Wiltshire Council) • Geology: Geology of Britain Viewer (British Geological Survey) • Pedology: Soilscapes Map (Soilscapes) • Agricultural Land Classification: ALC Map South West Region (Natural England) • Designations: Magic Interactive Mapping – Core Strategy Policy Maps (Wiltshire Council) • Heritage assets: The National Heritage List for England (Historic England)

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Planning Policy • National Planning Policy Framework • Wiltshire Core Strategy

Character Assessment • Natural England NCA: 132. Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs • Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment • Salisbury District Landscape Character Assessment

FIELD SURVEY 2.1.3 The desk study informs the field survey. Of particular relevance are the Ordnance Survey maps, aerial photography and the Landscape Character Assessments. The field survey is then used to gain a full appreciation of the relationship between the site and study area. The field work is supported by mapped viewpoints and photographic records, representative of, and relevant too, the development.

BASELINE ANALYSIS 2.1.4 The findings of the desk study and field survey inform the baseline analysis, which helps in determining the landscape value of the study area though description, classification and evaluation of the landscape and visual resources relevant to the application site and surrounding study area. Determining the value of the landscape as a resource helps in identifying specific landscape and visual receptors that have the potential to be affected by the development.

Landscape value 2.1.5 Landscape value is the relative value that is attached to different landscapes by society; a landscape may be valued by different stakeholders for a variety of reasons. While individual elements and features within the landscape may have value, including value in respect of designation, having specific elements and features of value does not mean an area is a valued landscape. Moreover, as identified in GLVIA 3, “the fact that an area of landscape is not designated either nationally or locally does not mean that it does not have any value”. For the purposes of this study, value is defined as either: Low, Medium or High.

2.1.6 When determining the value of the landscape as a resource, the following factors, adapted from Box 5.1 of GLVIA 3, are considered relevant to the assessment process:

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

• Landscape Quality (condition): A measure of the physical state of the landscape. It may include the extent to which typical character is represented in individual areas, the intactness of the landscape and the condition of individual elements. • Scenic Quality: The term used to describe landscapes which appeal principally to the senses (primarily, but not exclusively, visual). • Representativeness: Whether the landscape contains a particular character and/or features and elements, which are considered particularly important examples thereof. • Rarity: The presence of rare features and elements in the landscape or the presence of a rare Landscape Character Area (LCA) and/or Landscape Character Type (LCT). • Conservation Interests: The presence of features of wildlife, earth science, archaeological or historical, and cultural interest can add to the value of a landscape, as well as having value in their own right. • Recreational Value: Evidence that the landscape is valued for recreational activity, where experience of the landscape is important. • Perceptual Aspects: A landscape may be valued for its perceptual qualities and/or tranquillity. • Associations: Some landscapes are associated with particular people, such as artists or writers, or an event in history that contribute to perceptions of natural beauty of the area.

Landscape Receptors 2.1.7 Landscape receptors will be selected to help ascertain the specific aspects of the landscape resource that have the potential to be affected by the development. Potential receptors include individual elements and features of the study area, both on and off site, as well as the distinct landscape character of the study area as a whole.

Visual Receptors 2.1.8 Visual receptors will initially be identified from where the desk study suggests that the development area may be visible, before being verified as part of the field survey. Views will primarily be recorded from Public Rights of Way (PRoWs) and other areas with public access, as well as public roads with full public and permissive access. Residential views will be considered, where appropriate, through the use of representative viewpoints. It should be noted views may be recorded from areas which the desk study suggests have no intervisibility with the site, moreover not all potential visual receptors will be recorded during the field survey (e.g. if there is an obvious lack of intervisibility).

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

2.2 ASSESSMENT OF LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS 2.2.1 The landscape assessment addresses changes in the fabric, character and key elements and features of the landscape resource. The visual assessment addresses changes in visual amenity, and the implication of those changes on specific visual receptors.

2.2.2 The assessment of effects aims to: • Estimate the sensitivity of landscape and visual receptors as a function of their value and their susceptibility to change. • Identify the Magnitude of Effect of the development. • Provide an assessment of the Significance of Effect and, subsequently, the Nature of Effect in a logical and well-reasoned fashion.

2.2.3 The LVIA will consider the likely effects of the proposed development in the context of receptor sensitivity in order to determine the potential effect on the underlying resource, with mitigation measures recommended if required. The overall landscape and visual effects of the development will then be reappraised to determine the effectiveness of the recommended mitigation at both implementation and at maturity.

2.2.4 Designations which may affect the sensitivity of receptors will also be taken into consideration, where appropriate. In terms of listed buildings and other designated heritage assets as receptors, this report will only consider the potential effects on the historic landscape settings of these structures/areas. It should be noted that, although a development may be visible from a listed building or other designated historic asset, this does not automatically mean that there is an effect on its historic landscape setting.

2.2.5 Wherever possible, identified effects are quantified but, by its very nature, the LVIA requires a significant amount of interpretation and professional judgement. To be consistent, the prediction of Magnitude of Effect and the assessment of Significance of Effect have been based on pre-defined criteria.

LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT 2.2.6 Landscape Sensitivity is a function of the value of a landscape receptor (as described in 2.1.6), both as part of the landscape resource and as an individual element or feature, and its susceptibility to change, which is the ability of the landscape to accommodate the development type without

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire undue consequences for the maintenance of the baseline situation and/or the achievement of landscape planning polices and strategies. The following categories are used to determine susceptibility to change: • High: Development of the type proposed is such that changes would be entirely inconsistent with the character of the local area in relation to elements such as: pattern, grain, use, scale and mass. • Moderate: Development of the type proposed has a degree of consistency with the existing prevailing character and landscape elements. • Low: The development type proposed is entirely consistent with the character of the local area in pattern, grain, use, scale and mass.

Table 1a: Landscape Receptor Sensitivity

Level of Sensitivity Definition of Sensitivity High Important landscapes/landscape components of high value with a high susceptibility to change. Medium Important/moderately valued landscapes/landscape components with a moderate susceptibility to change. Low Moderately valued/relatively unimportant landscapes/landscape components with a low susceptibility to change. Negligible Degraded landscape tolerant of major change.

2.2.7 Potential Landscape Effects have been assessed using the following thresholds in order to evaluate the Significance of Effect:

Table 1b: Magnitude of Landscape Effect

Level of Magnitude Definition of Magnitude Substantial Total loss or alteration of key elements, features and characteristics of the baseline condition (predevelopment). Moderate Partial loss or alteration of one or more key elements, features and characteristics of the baseline condition, such that the predevelopment condition will be partially changed. Slight Minor loss or alteration of one or more key elements, features and characteristics of the baseline condition, such that the baseline condition will be similar to the predevelopment circumstance. Negligible Very minor loss or alteration to one or more key elements, features and characteristics of the baseline condition, such that the changes are barely distinguishable.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

VISUAL ASSESSMENT 2.2.8 Visual Sensitivity takes account of the value of routes/areas used by visual receptors including the extent to which attention is focused on the landscape, and the susceptibility of specific views and/or visual amenity to accommodate the development. Certain views that are experienced may have a value attached through planning designations or in relation to heritage assets, or may be indicated on maps or in guidebooks. The following will be used in defining Visual Sensitivity:

Table 2a: Visual Receptor Sensitivity

Level of Sensitivity Definition of Sensitivity High Users of strategic rights of way, cycle paths, etc; important cultural, physical or historic features; views from beauty spots, picnic areas and principal views from residential properties. Places where the attention of the receptor is likely to be focused on the landscape. Medium Other public rights of way. Views from principal settlements and secondary views from residential properties. Places where the attention of the receptor may be focused on the landscape. Low Receptors engaged in activities other than for the appreciation of the landscape. Negligible Views from industrialised areas.

2.2.9 Visual receptors are people, and Visual Effects have been assessed using the following thresholds in order to evaluate the Significance of Effect. The Magnitude of Visual Effect is based on the overall extent of the visibility. Factors such as distance from the development, duration of effect, screening, angle of view, backdrop to the development and extent of other built development are considered in respect of the Magnitude of Visual Effect.

Table 2b: Magnitude of Visual Effect

Level of Magnitude Definition of Magnitude Substantial Fundamental or obvious change in the character, make-up and balance of view. Proposals will be prominent or even dominant when considered in terms of the baseline condition. The established visual character would change. Moderate Moderate changes in the character, make-up and balance of the view, with the proposals noticeably distinct. This may lead to a change in the established visual character, depending upon the type of development proposed. Slight The proposals would be visible as a new feature. Change would be limited and would be unlikely to affect the established visual character as a whole. Negligible Virtually imperceptible change in the view. Whilst theoretically visible, the proposals would be faint, not legible or difficult for receptors to discern.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

SIGNIFICANCE OF EFFECT 2.2.10 The Significance of Effect can be expressed as a correlation between the Magnitude of Effect and Landscape or Visual Sensitivity in a single matrix to determine significance as shown in Table 3. However, it must be noted that the matrix is not in itself a substitute for professional judgement, for which allowances must be made. Although mitigation measures are often proposed where the Significance of Effect is Minor or None, it is the Major and Major/Moderate categories which provide the highest level of significance in terms of effect on the landscape and visual resources.

Table 3: Significance of Effect as a Correlation of Sensitivity and Magnitude Applicable to both Effect to the Landscape Resource and Visual Resource Landscape or Magnitude of Effect Visual Sensitivity Substantial Moderate Slight Negligible High Major Major/Moderate Moderate Moderate/Minor

Medium Major/Moderate Moderate Moderate/Minor Minor

Low Moderate Moderate/Minor Minor Minor/None

Negligible Moderate/Minor Minor Minor/None None

NATURE OF EFFECT 2.2.11 The calculation of a significant effect does not mean that change is Adverse; change as a result of development may also be Positive or Neutral. Neutral effects are those where change is considered to have neither a Positive nor Adverse effect on the landscape or visual resources overall. Nature of Effect is considered independently to the calculation of significance. Mitigation can change the Nature of Effect post development, with the aim being to lower the Magnitude of Effect and reduce Adverse effects as far as possible.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire 3. LANDSCAPE PLANNING CONTEXT

3.1 The following policy has been taken from the planning documents which are pertinent to the development of the site. The following policy extracts and, where applicable, excerpts of explanatory text, are relevant to the application. The policies listed will be used to guide the assessment and the mitigation strategy for the proposed development.

3.2 NATIONAL PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK 3.2.1 Published in July 2018, the replacement National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) replaced the 2012 version, which in turn had consolidated the previously issued Planning Policy Statements and Planning Policy Guidance. Of particular relevance to this assessment are the following excerpts as detailed below.

3.2.2 Section 12, ‘Achieving well-designed places’, Paragraph 127 is of relevance and states that:

Planning policies and decisions should ensure that developments: a) will function well and add to the overall quality of the area, not just for the short term but over the lifetime of the development; b) are visually attractive as a result of good architecture, layout and appropriate and effective landscaping; c) are sympathetic to local character and history, including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting, while not preventing or discouraging appropriate innovation or change (such as increased densities);

3.2.3 Also of relevance to this project is Section 15, ‘Conserving and enhancing the natural environment’, Paragraph 170 of which states that:

Planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by: a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, sites of biodiversity or geological value and soils (in a manner commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality in the development plan); b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside, and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services – including the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land, and of trees and woodland;

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

3.3 WILTSHIRE CORE STRATEGY 3.3.1 Adopted by Wiltshire Council in January 2015, the Wiltshire Core Strategy Development Plan Document replaced the four local plans that covered Wiltshire. The Core Strategy provides a positive and flexible overarching planning policy framework for Wiltshire for the period up to 2026 in order to ensure that any proposed development is of a high standard and is compatible with the character and visual qualities of the area.

3.3.2 CORE POLICIES CORE POLICY 25 – OLD SARUM AIRFIELD This Core Policy does not preclude development at Old Sarum Airfield but requires enhancement of the Conservation Area and high quality strategic landscape improvement and the softening of impacts both to and from the Old Sarum Scheduled Ancient Monument. The supporting text for the policy includes Fig 5.16 which shows the three proposed development areas as potential development areas. The objectives also include the provision of a long-term proactive strategy for the enhancement of the Conservation Area and a Conservation Area Management Plan. The policy states:

New development will only be permitted on Old Sarum Airfield if it delivers: i. a long-term proactive strategy for the enhancement of the Conservation Area, including management plan and public access and visitor/interpretive material on its historic relevance ii. a high quality strategic landscape improvement to mitigate impacts of existing intrusive buildings, to soften impacts when viewed both out and into the Conservation Area and from Old Sarum Scheduled Ancient Monument iii. the completion of a legal agreement (section 106) to agree reasonable controls over flying activity in the interests of the amenity of local residents iv. submission, agreement and implementation of a development masterplan, which delivers a high quality development that takes opportunities to enhance the historic environment and protects the amenity of existing residents v. retains and safeguards flying activity from the airfield vi. community benefit for the Old Sarum residents.

CORE POLICY 51 – LANDSCAPE is a detailed landscape policy which seeks to protect, conserve and enhance the distinctive landscapes of Wiltshire. The policy states:

Development should protect, conserve and where possible enhance landscape character and must not have a harmful impact upon landscape character, while any negative impacts must be mitigated as far as possible through sensitive design and landscape measures. Proposals

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

should be informed by and sympathetic to the distinctive character areas identified in the relevant Landscape Character Assessment(s) and any other relevant assessments and studies. In particular, proposals will need to demonstrate that the following aspects of landscape character have been conserved and where possible enhanced through sensitive design, landscape mitigation and enhancement measures: i. The locally distinctive pattern and species composition of natural features such as trees, hedgerows, woodland, field boundaries, watercourses and waterbodies. ii. The locally distinctive character of settlements and their landscape settings. iii. The separate identity of settlements and the transition between man-made and natural landscapes at the urban fringe. iv. Visually sensitive skylines, soils, geographical and topological features. v. Landscape features of cultural, historic and heritage value. vi. Important views and visual amenity. vii. Tranquillity and the need to protect against intrusion from light pollution, noise, and motion. viii. Landscape functions including places to live, work, relax and recreate. ix. Special qualities of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and the New Forest National Park, where great weight will be afforded to conserving and enhancing landscapes and scenic beauty.

Proposals for development within or affecting the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), New Forest National Park (NFNP) or Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site (WHS) shall demonstrate that they have taken account of the objectives, policies and actions set out in the relevant Management Plans for these areas. Proposals for development outside of an AONB that is sufficiently prominent (in terms of its siting or scale) to have an impact on the area’s special qualities (as set out in the relevant management plan), must also demonstrate that it would not adversely affect its setting.

CORE POLICY 57 – ENSURING HIGH QUALITY DESIGN AND PLACE SHAPING

A high standard of design is required in all new developments, including extensions, alterations, and changes of use of existing buildings. Development is expected to create a strong sense of place through drawing on the local context and being complementary to the locality. Applications for new development must be accompanied by appropriate information to demonstrate how the proposal will make a positive contribution to the character of Wiltshire through: i. Enhancing local distinctiveness by responding to the value of the natural and historic environment, relating positively to its landscape setting and the existing pattern of

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

development and responding to local topography by ensuring that important views into, within and out of the site are to be retained and enhanced. ii. The retention and enhancement of existing important landscaping and natural features, (e.g. trees, hedges, banks and watercourses), in order to take opportunities to enhance biodiversity, create wildlife and recreational corridors, effectively integrate the development into its setting and to justify and mitigate against any losses that may occur through the development. iii. Responding positively to the existing townscape and landscape features in terms of building layouts, built form, height, mass, scale, building line, plot size, elevational design, materials, streetscape and rooflines to effectively integrate the building into its setting. iv. Being sympathetic to and conserving historic buildings and historic landscapes. v. The maximisation of opportunities for sustainable construction techniques, use of renewable energy sources and ensuring buildings and spaces are orientated to gain maximum benefit from sunlight and passive solar energy, in accordance with Core Policy 41 (Sustainable Construction and Low Carbon Energy). vi. Making efficient use of land whilst taking account of the characteristics of the site and the local context to deliver an appropriate development which relates effectively to the immediate setting and to the wider character of the area. vii. Having regard to the compatibility of adjoining buildings and uses, the impact on the amenities of existing occupants, and ensuring that appropriate levels of amenity are achievable within the development itself, including the consideration of privacy, overshadowing, vibration, and pollution (e.g. light intrusion, noise, smoke, fumes, effluent, waste or litter). viii. Incorporating measures to reduce any actual or perceived opportunities for crime or antisocial behaviour on the site and in the surrounding area through the creation of visually attractive frontages that have windows and doors located to assist in the informal surveillance of public and shared areas by occupants of the site. ix. Ensuring that the public realm, including new roads and other rights of way, are designed to create places of character which are legible, safe and accessible in accordance with Core Policy 66 (Strategic Transport Network). x. The sensitive design of advertisements and signage, which are appropriate and sympathetic to their local setting by means of scale, design, lighting and materials. xi. Taking account of the needs of potential occupants, through planning for diversity and adaptability, and considering how buildings and space will be used in the immediate and long term future.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

xii. The use of high standards of building materials, finishes and landscaping, including the provision of street furniture and the integration of art and design in the public realm. xiii. The case of major developments, ensuring they are accompanied by a detailed design statement and masterplan, which is based on an analysis of the local context and assessment of constraints and opportunities of the site and is informed by a development concept, including clearly stated design principles, which will underpin the character of the new place. xiv. Meeting the requirements of Core Policy 61 (Transport and New Development).

CORE POLICY 58 – ENSURING THE CONSERVATION OF THE HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT Development proposals at Old Sarum Airfield although not precluded by Policy CP25 must also take account of the requirements of CP58. Of particular relevance to this LVIA are bullet points i., iv., & vi. . The text of the policy is as follows:

Development should protect, conserve and where possible enhance the historic environment.

Designated heritage assets and their settings will be conserved, and where appropriate enhanced in a manner appropriate to their signiﬁcance, including:

i. Nationally signiﬁcant archaeological remains.

ii. World Heritage Sites within and adjacent to Wiltshire.

iii. Buildings and structures of special architectural or historic interest.

iv. The special character or appearance of conservation areas.

v. Historic parks and gardens.

vi. Important landscapes, including registered battleﬁelds and townscapes.

Distinctive elements of Wiltshire’s historic environment, including non-designated heritage assets, which contribute to a sense of local character and identity will be conserved, and where possible enhanced. The potential contribution of these heritage assets towards wider social, cultural, economic and environmental beneﬁts will also be utilised where this can be delivered in a sensitive and appropriate manner in accordance with Core Policy 57 (Ensuring High Quality Design and Place Shaping).

Heritage assets at risk will be monitored and development proposals that improve their condition will be encouraged. The advice of statutory and local consultees will be sought in consideration of such applications.

3.3.3 Policies from the now replaced South Wiltshire Core Strategy and saved policies from the Salisbury District Local Plan are not considered to be of the level of relevance that requires

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire them to be afforded great weight in the Old Sarum Airfield proposals. This includes Policy C6 ‘Special Landscape Areas’ (SLA). The site lies outside, but immediately adjacent to, the SLA on the eastern side of the Airfield. The policy is old and does not follow the character-based approach now familiar in landscape policies. The SLA designation is also due for review. It is considered that for the purposes of the LVIA the above Core Policies are key.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire 4. BASELINE LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL STUDY

4.1 LOCATION AND CONTEXT 4.1.1 The site is located on land at Old Sarum Airfield to the north of the City of Salisbury and south of the Portway (A338) and residential development at Old Sarum. Old Sarum Airfield is one of the best preserved First World War airfields in the country and is still a functioning airfield with a grass strip. The airfield retains three listed hangars and some technical buildings. The airfield is a designated conservation area.

4.1.2 Modern industrial sheds mostly from the late 20th century have undermined the heritage value of the airfield, but the large open landscape of the flying area remains intact. Some sympathetic development around the airfield perimeter may be permitted.

4.1.3 Views to the west from the airfield are dominated by the Old Sarum Scheduled Ancient Monument, which is also a designated conservation area. Intervisibility between the two historic assets, across the A345 Amesbury to Salisbury Road and a pig farm, is of paramount importance and makes a considerable contribution to the open setting of the Old Sarum Castle. To the south is Castle Hill, which obscures intervisibility between the airfield and Salisbury centre. The development at Hampton Park is close to the airfield’s southern boundary but separated from it by the development of a Country Park, and in the south-east corner by 20th century development to the north of the Roman Road and which forms part of the village of Ford. To the east restricted byway LAFO17 runs along the site boundary, and the gently undulating lowland landscape of the River Bourne valley continues until the steep scarp slopes of the chalk downland at Figsbury Ring and along Ford Down and Laverstock Down are reached, between two and three kilometres to the east and south-east of the airfield.

4.2 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER 4.2.1 The following Landscape Character Assessments have been used to establish the baseline character of study area: • Natural England NCA: 132. Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs • Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment • Salisbury District Landscape Character Assessment

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

4.2.2 Only the information pertaining to the LCAs and LCTs in which the site is located has been listed in order to help establish its unique landscape character as well as to determine the site’s contribution to the landscape character, elements, and features which define the wider landscape. It is important to note that, due to the extent of individual Character Areas and Types, some of the listed information may not be wholly relevant to the site and surrounding landscape.

NATIONAL CHARACTER AREA PROFILES 4.2.3 In 2012, Natural England, as part of its responsibilities in delivering the Natural Environment White Paper, Biodiversity 2020 and the European Landscape Convention, revised the National Character Area Profiles to make environmental evidence and information easily available to a wider audience. The NCA is a broad-brush assessment of a large area and although reference is made to features of the application site, its value is limited at a site-specific level. The site and entire study area fall within the NCA: 132. Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS:

• Salisbury Plain, an extensive and open rolling chalk plateau and one of the largest remaining areas of calcareous grassland in north-west Europe. • Many small, sheltered river valleys, such as the Wylye, with narrow flood plains and meandering river courses. • Woodland generally confined to valley slopes, with scattered copses and shelterbelts (usually of beech or conifer) found on the high downs, and occasional ancient oak woods on the ridgetops. • Large arable fields predominate, with generally very few hedgerows or obvious boundary features; there are often wide grass buffer strips. • Rare flora and fauna of national significance, associated with a chalk landscape, from stone curlew, hobby and corn bunting to dropwort, early gentian and slender bedstraw. • Outstanding prehistoric ritual landscape, with many Scheduled Ancient Monuments and earthworks prominent in the open landscape, notably Stonehenge. • Distinctive chalk-cut figures – generally large horses – post-dating the medieval period. • A sparsely settled landscape, with few settlements of any size, and notable for nucleated villages at the foot of the scarp along the springline. Large-scale farmsteads are a prominent feature. • Abundant use made in older buildings of local stone such as flint, Chilmark stone and clunch, together with timber frame and chalk cob. • Large parks and estates found in the valleys, with related groups of estate housing in common style.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

• Salisbury, an ecclesiastical centre since the early medieval period and now a tourist and local administration centre, with a well-preserved historic core, and a cathedral whose spire has long been a feature in the surrounding landscape. • Military tracks, airfields and structures reflecting a major land use. Visually prominent modern military housing and supporting development are found in the eastern side of the NCA.

WILTSHIRE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT 4.2.4 In December 2005, Land Use Consultants, on behalf of Wiltshire County Council, published the Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment. The site falls within LCT 3: High Chalk Plain, specifically LCA 3B: Salisbury Plain East.

LCT 3: HIGH CHALK PLAIN – DESCRIPTION

Location and Boundaries: The High Chalk Plain Landscape Type forms a large area of central Wiltshire, over a wide band of Upper Chalk Formation. The boundaries are defined by changes in topography to the north, west and south where water courses have created valleys, and a change in land cover to the east where woodland is more prevalent. The county boundary constrains the area of study to the east. There are three Character Areas within this landscape type, divided by river valleys. 3A: Salisbury Plain West is the largest and most westerly area, 3B: Salisbury Plain East is the central area and 3C: Porton Down is to the east. A large proportion of the High Chalk Plain Landscape Type is Ministry of Defence (MOD) land, with restricted public access.

Key Characteristics: • Very large scale and open, exposed landscape. • Rolling plateau land form with panoramic views over the surrounding lowlands creating a sense of elevation. • Large regular arable fields are bounded mainly by ditches or fences with occasional hedgerows. • Steep and incised slopes down to the surrounding river valleys. • Extensive areas of chalk grassland and scrub occur on the northern and central parts of the area under military ownership with arable farmland around the periphery.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

• Copses and woodland belts, at various stages of growth occur throughout the area with sinuous older plantations contrasting with more recent tree planting in geometrical blocks. • Proliferation of military signage and posts along the numerous tracks that cross the area. • Rich ecology particularly the numerous extensive and intact areas of chalk grassland. • Archaeological remains and sites of historic importance, particularly the Neolithic monuments of Stonehenge and Old Sarum. • Settlement limited to a scattering of small villages and military installations including camps and abandoned or specially constructed villages used by the army for training operations.

LCA 3B: Salisbury Plain East Salisbury Plain East is an area of High Chalk Plain rising up from the river valleys to the east and west. As with other areas within the High Chalk Plain Landscape Type, a vast proportion of the area is MOD land and has not been cultivated for many years, allowing for large scale calcareous grassland recolonisation of high ecological value. Juniper scrub is frequent throughout the area, as are clumps of trees and some more extensive areas of woodland, such as Everleigh Ashes. In recent years however, there has been some extensive tree clearance particularly in connection with the Life project to restore and manage the calcareous grassland. Settlement is more apparent in this area than the other areas of the High Chalk Plain Landscape Type. Two large military camps at Bulford and Tidworth extend up out of the Nine Mile and Bourne Valleys. There is also a group of settlements to the east of the area including Ludgershall and Tidworth. Other military sites include rifle ranges and Boscombe Down Airfield which occupies a large area of flat ground to the south of the area. Sites of historic and archaeological interest are frequent throughout the area, including the Iron Age fort on Sidbury Hill. Despite the settlement and areas of woodland which create some more intimate areas, Salisbury Plain East retains its vast scale and sense of isolation and exposure.

LCT 3: HIGH CHALK PLAIN – EVALUATION

Positive landscape features of significance: • Large scale open and exposed landscape. • Strong sense of remoteness and isolation accentuated by absence of settlement. • Wide views across the plain and out over the surrounding lowlands. • Extensive areas of uninterrupted calcareous grassland with juniper scrub and of high ecological value. • Scattered woodlands and plantations.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

• Outstanding sites of archaeological interest; numerous sites, many of international importance including Stonehenge (WHS). • Twentieth century military history evident in features such as the “German” village, disused tanks, distinctive signage, posts and gates on the rough tracks and roads.

Forces for change: • Changes in military activity potentially leading to alterations to the management of the calcareous grassland, Juniper scrub and the woodland blocks. • In the past intensive arable agriculture has resulted in loss of biodiversity (chalk grassland) and ploughing up of important historic monuments. • Further amalgamation and enlargement of fields and the breakdown of traditional field boundaries associated with intensive farming practices. • LIFE project impacts (aims to restore and management of the calcareous grassland). • Management of military plantations. • Managing high visitor numbers to key archaeological sites – potential effects on the historic landscape and need for supporting infrastructure. • Potential impact of tall structures - communications masts and transmitters plus future renewable energy developments (wind turbines) that will be particularly intrusive on the skylines and could have a major impact on the sense of remoteness.

Inherent landscape sensitivities: • The open, exposed and isolated nature of the plain. • Internationally important ecological resources in the vast areas of uninterrupted chalk grassland. • Ecologically significant areas of arable biodiversity, Juniper scrub and ancient woodland. • Numerous sites of archaeological interest. • The long views and openness of the level plateau have a high visual sensitivity to change. • Skylines and tops of the scarp slopes are also particularly visually sensitive.

SALISBURY DISTRICT LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT 4.2.5 Salisbury District Landscape Character Assessment was undertaken by Chris Blandford Associates and was published in February 2008. The LCA defines 25 landscape character areas throughout the Salisbury District. The site falls within Landscape Character Type D: Chalk Downland, specifically Landscape Character Area D4: Boscombe Down.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

LCT D: CHALK DOWNLAND

Key Characteristics: • Large-scale landform of broad rolling hills dissected by a series of coombe river valleys and rounded upstanding ridges; • Dominated by an Upper Chalk surface geology with drift clay with flints capping on higher ground. • A predominantly arable landscape divided into large, regular field units with straight- sided fields representing late 18th/early 19th century Parliamentary inclosure. • Remnant chalk grassland, ancient broadleaved woodland and Yew woodland are important habitats. • Main roads cut across the undulating landscape linking settlements; • Large open skies and distant panoramic views. • Low density scattered settlement of farmsteads, the occasional downland village, or Medieval hunting lodge and military camps; • Large woods, shelterbelts, copses and clumps of woodland create a series of enclosed ‘rooms’ surrounded by trees in places; • Military signage and posts along the numerous tracks that cross the area; • Numerous Neolithic burial and ritual monuments and Bronze Age Barrows and prehistoric to Romano-British earthworks and field systems; • Strong sense of elevation.

Summary of Visual Character Unlike the dramatic escarpments which are found along several of the boundaries of the chalk, and which represent the retreating faces of chalk strata, the Chalk Downs have a much more subdued landform of gently rolling spurs and dry valleys. In geological terms, the Chalk Downland comprises the dip-slope of the chalk; a gently inclined landform representing the original ‘chalk’ surface. These uninterrupted tolling hills and gentle slopes give a real sense of openness. The landscape is now predominantly under arable fields, but with areas of chalk grassland surviving. In places, the Downland is covered by a mosaic of woodland and grassland. The Chalk Downland Landscape Character Type is rich in areas of high ecological value and offers a range of habitats including extensive area of nationally rare chalk grassland. This landscape also has many sites of historic and archaeological importance. Partly due to military use of parts of this landscape, whole archaeological landscapes survive, largely undisrupted by any activity following the Roman period. Settlement pattern is sparse, limited to nucleated villages, military camps and isolated farmsteads. There are several freestanding military camps, which are often highly visible within the landscape, due to their large-scale and utilitarian construction. The military presence to the north of Salisbury District is also evident

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

in the numerous signs and white topped posts clustered around the track junctions and areas within restricted access, such as the firing ranges.

LCA D4: BOSCOMBE DOWN

Location and Boundaries Boscombe Down Chalk Downland Landscape Character Area is situated within the north-east of Salisbury District, spreading northwards from the city of Salisbury towards Amesbury and Bulford Camp. To the east and west this area is bordered by the Upper Avon and Bourne Chalk River Valleys. This Landscape Character Area falls within the Salisbury Plain, which continues to the north-east of the District boundary.

Key Characteristics • The landscape is covered by a patchwork of arable farmland and calcareous grassland; • Character dominated by military use to the north-east of Bulford, where the landscape is criss-crossed by military tracks and mixed woodland copses, which are a feature; • In places, field boundaries are delineated by hedgerows which tend to be low and gappy; • Relatively large-scale landscape pattern which is interspersed by the nucleated settlement of Amesbury and regular layout of Bulford Camp, introducing human elements to the landscape; • Network of predominantly rural lanes criss-cross the landscape, in addition to the major A303 road corridor, which introduces a source of noise and visual intrusion; • Open views in places into the valley corridors of the Upper Avon and Bourne; • Sense of tranquillity quite strong throughout much of the area, but disturbed in place by noise and visual intrusion associated with the A303 road corridor, the settlement edges of Salisbury and Amesbury, and military activities; • Relatively geometric landscape as a result of the numerous straight tracks and roads associated with military training areas; • Gently rolling and fairly elevated landscape.

Summary of Visual Character This patchwork of arable farmland and calcareous grassland is dominated in a parts by the presence of Amesbury and Bulford Camp settlements, which impart a human character over the surrounding predominantly rural landscape. Sense of place is strong in certain locations, as a result of views into the adjacent narrow river corridors of the Upper Avon and Bourne Chalk River Valleys. Sense of openness is limited in places by relatively large copses and blocks of mixed woodland. In other locations, panoramic open views across surrounding areas of Chalk Downland contribute to the character of this landscape. This relatively large-scale geometric

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

landscape is delineated by a series of hedgerows which are denuded and gappy in places. Settlement pattern is quite dominant within this landscape, particularly resulting from the influence of the geometric layout and utilitarian built form of Bulford Camp. Sense of tranquillity is strong within pockets of this landscape, but disturbed in other places by traffic on the A303 main road corridor, and activity associated with Amesbury and Bulford Camp. Bulford Camp and Boscombe Down are dominant within several views across the landscape. To the north of the area, sense of tranquillity is stronger and a predominantly rural character is apparent in combination with a scattered and small-scale settlement pattern.

The LCA specifically describes Old Sarum Airfield under Human Influences Historic Environment section. The LCA states: Old Sarum Airfield Conservation Area is a rare, almost complete, surviving example of a World War I airfield and training depot station. It retains open spaces, tree lined roads and buildings of each phase of the airfield’s development, which evoke a past era of military landscape design. Of particular architectural interest are the three surviving Grade II* listed hangars, the Grade II listed workshops to the south of (ARS) Hangar 3, the Station Headquarters, the Motor Transport Sheds and Yard, and the Machine Gun Range, all dated to the World War I period; the Air Ministry Bundary Markers and the Station Headquarters, from the RAF Expansion period; and the World War II Pillboxes.

EVALUATION Current Condition Although this landscape is actively farmed, the intensive farming methods mean that some landscape features have declined. Hedgerows are often fragmented, gappy or over-managed, with post and wire fencing often acting as infill where hedgerow sections have been lost. The overall condition of this landscape is considered to be moderate.

Inherent Landscape Sensitivities Landscape Character Sensitivity This Landscape Character Area is considered to have a relatively strong character, on account of the large-scale, generally smooth rolling landform and exposed character. Landscape sensitivities include the hedgerow network and strong sense of tranquillity throughout (except in proximity to the A303 road corridor and edges of Salisbury and Amesbury). Overall landscape character sensitivity is considered to be moderate to high.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Visual Sensitivity This large-scale, sweeping landscape has an exposed and denuded character. Long distance, panoramic views across the landscape are key visual character, with small landscape elements such as isolated farmsteads or gappy hedgerows forming focal points on the horizon. Intervisibility with surrounding areas of chalk downland is strong and generally seemless. As a result of these factors, and the rolling landform of ridges and slopes, overall visual sensitivity is considered to be high.

Key Landscape Changes • Conversion from sheep grazing on unimproved grassland to intensive arable production is one of the most dramatic changes to have occurred within the landscape over the past three centuries; • There is pressure for development and facilities along the A303 transport corridor (such as the new services at Countess East); the loss of features such as hedgerows, combined with varied approaches to field boundary management, affects the visual integrity of the landscape; • The loss of features such as hedgerows, combined with varied approaches to field boundary management, affects the visual integrity of the landscape; • Pressure for residential development is changing the character of small nucleated villages and towns within the area; • Potential future impact of tall structures, such as communication masts, transmitters and wind turbines, that will be particularly intrusive on open skylines and impact on the sense of remoteness (particularly within the north of the area); • Changes in military activities, potentially leading to alterations to the management of the calcareous grassland and woodland blocks; • Potential new development associated with Amesbury, Bulford Camp and Boscombe Down Management Strategy and objectives.

Management Strategy and Objectives The overall management strategy for Boscombe Down should be to conserve the patchwork of arable farmland and calcareous grassland, and intact hedgerows, including clumps of woodland. Where possible, field boundaries should be restored using locally appropriate species.

4.2.6 Both the Wiltshire LCA and Salisbury District LCA have taken a broad-brush approach to the landscape character type and area characterisations, which has resulted in a bias towards the open military landscapes of the Salisbury Plain military ranges and MoD establishments, rather than those

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire landscapes towards the southern part of the area, which are under greater threat from development and the expansion of Salisbury. However, both LCAs provide an adequate, but relatively high level, overview of the landscape, and hint at the conflicting landuses across the southern part of Salisbury Plain, with military training, agriculture and residential/employment development pressures all playing their part. Both reports take a similar approach and have identified similar key characteristics and sensitivities. LCA D4 of the Salisbury District LCA has a description of the historic development of Old Sarum Airfield, but takes it no further when it comes to objectives for the LCA. Neither LCA mentions the importance of intervisibility between Old Sarum SAM and the Airfield nor gives direction as to the importance of these views.

4.3 THE SITE AND STUDY AREA 4.3.1 The site encompasses the entire open landscape of Old Sarum Airfield to the north of Salisbury. To the south Castle Hill provides a ridgeline with public access which partially contains the airfield and precludes intervisibility with the core of Salisbury. To the east and south east there is extensive intervisibility, across the Bourne Valley and village of Ford, with the chalk ridges of Laverstock Down and Figsbury Ring. There are also views towards Porton Down on the lower ground at the foot of the northern downslope from Figsbury Ring. The Monarch’s Way long distance path cuts through the landscape east of the site. To the north are the airfield buildings, together with extensive new industrial buildings located to the south of the A338 Portway. To the north of the Portway is an extensive residential development, with local services, much of which is still under construction. Views to the west are dominated by the Old Sarum SAM, with which there is extensive intervisibility. Between the airfield and SAM the A345 to Salisbury and a pig farm are detracting features. To the north-west a park and ride is relatively well concealed by extensive tree planting. Beyond this and the A345 extensive arable land extends in an undulating chalk downland landscape.

4.3.2 The entire application site is located within the Old Sarum Airfield Conservation Area. The development area red line encompasses the entire airfield, but the gross development area is 22.1ha of a total of 62.3ha of aviation and non-aviation uses. The proposed development covers three primary areas as indicated in Figure 5.16 of the Core Strategy.

4.3.3 Area A is located on an agricultural field current used for stock grazing on the western edge of the Castlegate part of the Sarum Business Park and forms the north-western part of the application site.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

4.3.4 Area B comprises the existing airfield structures and includes the listed hangars and the airfield facilities and aircraft parking area, as well as the edge of the airfield along its northern boundary. The extent of Area B is Lancaster Road to the north but includes two access points onto the Portway.

4.3.5 Area C comprises an area of north-west to south-east sloping land on the south-eastern Part of the airfield. The land extends from the relatively modern residential estate to the north-west of the historic core of the village of Ford and connects with the Roman Road to the south and Green Lane to the east.

4.3.6 The study area has developed over a bedrock of chalk, with the site being located on an area of shallow but lime rich soil (Agricultural Land Classification Grade 3, sub-grade not specified). The landform of the area is closely associated with the historic environment, having formed millions of years ago when the area was dominated by warm chalk seas. This has resulted in a series of distinct ridgelines and valleys which create the undulating topography typical of the area. The site itself is located on relatively flat ground, at an average elevation of approximately 80m Above Ordnance Datum (AOD). The land drops away towards Ford village to the south-east (Area C) and undulates in the north-west corner (Area A). By its very nature the airfield landscape has to be open, although the level of containment provided by Castle Hill, Old Sarum SAM and the developments north of the site, precludes the majority of long views from those directions. The Old Sarum Castle is the most significant landform feature within the study area, although Figsbury Ring several kilometres to the east is important in providing extensive views across the entire study area.

4.3.7 The landuse of the study area is predominantly agricultural, with evidence of the landscape having been influenced by parliamentary enclosure during the later 18th and 19th centuries, as seen by the characteristic regularity of large open fields with straight field boundaries and tracks. Military ranges and establishments are also in evidence, with recreational uses on the airfield and at Old Sarum Castle being of particular importance. The study area also includes large areas of residential and industrial development, particularly to the south in Salisbury, Hampton Park and Ford, and on land both north and south of the Portway through Old Sarum. The site itself, while having some areas of pasture, is dominated by the airfield usage. Mixed woodland blocks and tree belts break up the landscape and give the area a varied visual character. Hedgerow cover is varied within the study area and is typically found along land ownership boundaries and transport corridors, with fields often being open as a result of historic hedgerow removal.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

4.3.8 The settlement pattern of the study area is defined by the expansion of Salisbury to the south and extending beyond Castle Hill at Hampton Park. There is some relatively modern development to the north-west of Ford close to the south-east corner of the airfield, and further extensive new development to the north of the airfield. There are three Grade II* listed hangars and a Grade II listed workshop within Old Sarum Airfield. To the west the remains of Old Sarum Castle and Cathedral are Grade I listed, are a SAM and a designated conservation area. These designated structures have potential close distance intervisibility with the proposed development. Building materials across the entire study area, and particularly within and bordering the site are a very varied mixture of modern and historic materials for both residential and employment use, with no one style dominating the area. Traditional historic (Pre World War I) buildings are brick or brick-and- timber or distinctive knapped flint. Plain clay tiles are the most common roofing material, though thatch survives in some buildings and Welsh slate is another variation. Chalk cob is occasionally used in walls surrounding farmsteads, though rarely as a building stone.

4.3.9 Monarch’s Way Long Distance Path passes a short distance to the east and north of the airfield and National Cycle Route 45 to the west, but predominantly within the lowland of the Avon Valley beyond Old Sarum Castle. LAFO17 Restricted Byway is a well-used and surfaced route along the eastern side of the airfield between Ford and Old Sarum, with open views into Area C. Vehicular access through the study area is provided predominantly by a series of major and minor roads and access tracks/drives. The A345 to the west and A338 to the north are important transport routes through the study area from where the site is visible. Further afield the A30 Andover to Salisbury road cuts through the south-east part of the study area, with limited filtered views of the airfield. The Salisbury to Waterloo main railway also traverses the southern part of the study area, but deep cuttings mean that there is no intervisibility with the site.

4.4 BASELINE ANALYSIS 4.4.1 The findings of the desk study and field survey have been used to determine the landscape value of the site as a component of the study area, and subsequently identify specific landscape and visual receptors that have the potential to be affected by the development. The proposed development will be assessed against these receptors so as to determine the Significance of Effect of the development on specific aspects of the landscape resource, leading to an overall calculation of Significance of Effect on the landscape resource as a whole.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

4.4.2 It should be noted that, while specific receptors have been identified for consideration, this does not necessarily mean that they will be significantly and/or adversely affected by the proposals. Moreover, where there are Significant and/or Adverse effects on specific receptors, this does not mean that there will be Significant Adverse effects on the landscape resource as a whole.

LANDSCAPE VALUE 4.4.3 The key factors in determining the landscape value of the site and immediate area are listed below: • Landscape Quality (condition): The study area has a very varied landscape structure, with many of the field boundaries being open or fenced as opposed to hedged. Urban edges are detracting features and, in some places, present a poorly-defined urban/rural interface. However, it is important to note that the urban fringe of Salisbury is expanding and the perception changing. The site itself has limited areas of boundary vegetation and they have received little management. Within the wider landscape, the site contributes a distinct open, non-agricultural landscape. Value rating: Medium. • Scenic Quality: There are views across the landscape from the elevated landform to the west, south-east and south. These are predominately locations with high visitor numbers at Old Sarum Castle and Figsbury Hill, as well as from local roads and PRoW. The landscape around of the site and its open nature are extremely important in these views and has a high scenic quality. Recent development at Old Sarum and on the edge of Salisbury are detracting features. Value rating: Medium - High. • Representativeness: The study area is generally representative of the host landscape character area and the Bourne Narrow Chalk River Valley and Porton Down Chalk Downland landscape character areas to the east and south-east of the site. However, recent development to the north of the site, as well as the development at Hampton Park, and the use of the site as an airfield, means that some of the wider area characteristics identified, particularly those referring to the tranquil landscape, do not apply to the site as it has already been subject to peripheral urbanising influences. Value rating: Medium. • Rarity: Old Sarum Airfield is a distinct and unusual feature and in conjunction with Old Sarum Castle are both recognised for their heritage importance and are distinct landscape features within their own rights. However, the landscape character areas and types pertinent to the study area are neither particularly rare nor common. The urbanising influence of Salisbury and Old Sarum detracts from the area’s character to some extent. Value rating: Medium - High.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

• Conservation Interests: The site lies within the Old Sarum Airfield Conservation Area and within the setting of the Old Sarum Castle Conservation Area. Old Sarum Airfield is of considerable heritage importance and contains a number of related listed structures. Likewise, Old Sarum Castle is a SAM and is Grade I listed. In the wider landscape there are numerous heritage assets. There are no natural environment designations on, or adjoining, the site. Old Sarum Castle is a County Wildlife site and the River Avon and its tributary The Bourne are a Special Area of Conservation. Value rating: High. • Recreational Value: The study area is used extensively for recreation with visitor access to Figsbury Hill and Old Sarum Castle. The airfield is a very popular private facility for recreational flying. There are sports pitches in Old Sarum and numerous PRoWs, including Monarch’s Way and National Cycle Route 45 close to the site. The Boscombe Down Aviation Museum is a popular attraction at Old Sarum Airfield. Salisbury itself is a very popular tourist destination. Value rating: High. • Perceptual Aspects: The site has value as a large area of undeveloped and protected land close to the settlement edge and preventing the coalescence of Salisbury and Old Sarum. It also forms an important component of the open setting of Old Sarum Castle. The regular use by aircraft means that the site is not tranquil. In the wider landscape aircraft noise from both Old Sarum and Boscombe Down, plus road vehicle noise and occasional artillery/rifle fire indicate a limited tranquility. Value rating: Medium. • Associations: Old Sarum Airfield is the most intact example of a World War I airfield. It has a long history of association with the RAF and other services. It is also home to the Boscombe Down Aircraft Museum, which is open to the public. Value rating: High.

4.4.4 Overall the value of the landscape is Medium - High, which indicates that the site and surrounding area is a ‘valued landscape’ under Section 15, Paragraph 170, Bullet Point a) of the NPPF.

LANDSCAPE RECEPTORS 4.4.5 The following landscape receptors have been identified as being aspects of the landscape resource that have the potential to be affected by the proposals: • Established landscape character, elements, and features (which define the LCAs and LCTs in which the site is located). • The importance of the site as an area of open land beyond the urban edge of Salisbury. • The historic importance of the open airfield landscape as a heritage asset.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

• The importance of the open airfield in the landscape setting of Old Sarum Castle Conservation Area and SAM.

VISUAL RECEPTORS 4.4.6 The following visual receptors locations have been identified as having potential intervisibility with the proposals: • Old Sarum Airfield car park/public areas. • Monarch’s Way and restricted byway LAFO17 PRoWs. • The Portway (west of the Castlegate Business Park). • Old Sarum Castle SAM. • Roman Road and Castle Hill to the south of the airfield. • The footway alongside the A345. • Rising land at the A338 junction east of Ford. • The elevated landform to the east, in particular Figsbury Ring.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire 5. LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT 5.1 LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT 5.1.1 The landscape effects of the proposed development have been appraised using the receptors identified in the baseline analysis to predict possible impacts on the landscape of the site and surrounding study area.

5.1.2 The site itself represents a specific and unique heritage feature as defined by its designation as a Conservation Area and comments regarding it in the Salisbury District Landscape Character Assessment. However, it also forms part of several much broader key characteristics in respect of the area’s chalk downland character and military history. Residential development at Old Sarum Airfield is not contrary to Core Policy 25, subject to a number of safeguards, and is not specifically mentioned as a concern in the Landscape Character Assessments.

5.1.3 While there will be an unavoidable loss of open land as a result of any of the development proposed, the scale of that loss and the mitigation required are key issues in relation to the character of the site and surrounding area. The airfield is a large open area and any mitigation of the residential development will involve significant levels of tree and shrub planting, which by its very nature will be at odds with the open character of the site. Therefore, it is essential that the scale of the development and its locations are such that mitigation can be tied into the existing peripheral tree belts and hedgerows and does not encroach into the wider open landscape.

5.1.4 The effect of the proposals on the landscape character and landscape settings of heritage assets within the study area will be important considerations due to the scale of the proposals and intervisibility. The proposed development of Area A, in particular, will affect the landscape setting of Old Sarum Castle, and will also affect the open landscape of the Old Sarum Airfield Conservation Area, in which it is located. The site retains the characteristics consistent with those of a World War I airfield and the encroachment of residential development into the airfield will erode this key characteristic. Although Old Sarum Castle predates the airfield by several hundred years, it is the open nature of the airfield which makes a strong contribution to the landscape setting of the monument. The development scale proposed for Area A will bring mass residential development closer to the monument than any previous developments, in such a way that it cannot be mitigated without introducing significant quantities of tree planting into the open landscape, thereby changing its open character.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

5.1.5 While some development of the site will not conflict with the relevant key issues, strategies, objectives and policies identified across the relevant Character Assessments, the scale of the proposed development is at odds with the requirement to preserve and enhance the Conservation Area. Therefore, the proposals are considered inappropriate in respect of CP25 parts i. and ii. and the requirements of policies CP51 and 57.

5.1.6 The Landscape Value of the study area as a whole is Medium - High, due in large part to its heritage designations; importance in the landscape setting of Old Sarum Castle, and the recreational value of the site and its surroundings. The overall Susceptibility to Change is Medium as, while the proposed development will represent the loss of part of the open airfield landscape, and the outline proposals relate to a substantial area that will result in an unprecedented dominance of residential development, some residential development can be accepted without significant harm to the area’s established character and can be adequately contained within the landscape. As such, this study considers the Overall Landscape Sensitivity of the site within the surrounding landscape to be High - Medium.

5.1.7 In terms of the Overall Magnitude of Landscape Effect resulting from the proposals, any change has to be considered in terms of the key elements and features that will definitely be affected and those that will potentially be affected, as well as the importance of these elements and features as part of the wider landscape. The proposals will bring new areas of development and will result in the loss or alteration of key elements, features and characteristics of the baseline condition of parts, but not all of the overall airfield, such that development of the scale proposed, particularly in relation to Area A, will change the pre-development condition of the landscape as a whole. As such, the Overall Magnitude of Landscape Effect is Moderate. Therefore, the development proposals will have an Overall Significance of Landscape Effect of Major/Moderate – Moderate, which is significant when considered under the LVIA methodology used in the appraisal.

5.1.8 While some residential development at Old Sarum Airfield can undoubtedly be accommodated, without significantly affecting the prevailing open airfield character of the site, the scale of the proposals, albeit in outline form, will affect important elements and features of the landscape and will result in a substantially increased built-form in the local/immediate area. As such, the Overall Nature of Landscape Effect is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

5.2 VISUAL ASSESSMENT 5.2.1 The recorded viewpoints can be used to predict possible effects from PRoWs, roads, publicly accessible areas and residential properties within the study area. Viewpoints have been determined from where the desk study suggested that the development areas may be visible, as well as observations during the field survey. The recorded viewpoints are considered appropriate for the scale of the development and the prevailing topography and land cover. All the photographs were taken using a digital equivalent of a 50mm focal length traditional 35mm SLR lens to represent most accurately the views as seen by the human eye.

5.2.2 For the purpose of this assessment, close views are between 0m – 500m from the proposed development, medium views are between 500m – 1500m, and long views from further than 1500m. Where appropriate, specific viewpoints have been organised into groups to help better determine the visual impact of the proposed development. Views are representative and not totally exclusive. (See Appendix 2: Viewpoint Photographs for enlarged copies of the selected viewpoints).

5.2.3 The Viewpoints were visited in June/July 2018 when vegetation was in full leaf. The Seasonal differences (seasonality), in respect of potential effects arising from the varying degree of screening/filtering of views by vegetation that will apply in summer and winter, have been considered in the assessment of all recorded viewpoints; as per the recommendation of GLVIA3. It is important to note that the recording of viewpoints during different seasons is not a prerequisite of the consideration of seasonality, as GLVIA3 states

The timing of the assessment work and the project programme will also influence the practicality of covering more than one season.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 1: Close distance, view south-west, from footway at Castlegate Roundabout on The Portway. Approximate distance from site: <30m Approximate OS map elevation: Approximately 75m AOD

The proposed development of Area A will dominate this view and will largely obscure views of Old Sarum Castle. Despite the requirement to maintain a vista along the Portway through the site to Old Sarum Castle, the open nature of the ASSESSMENT: current panorama will be lost. However, this view is taken from a busy road junction on the edge of the Castlegate Business Park and is not considered to be a view where receptors will usually be concentrating on the landscape. Receptor Sensitivity: Low SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Substantial CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Moderate NATURE OF As the proposed development will change the nature of the view completely, EFFECT: the Nature of Effect of the proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 2: Close distance, open view north-east, from Roman Road just west of the airfield boundary. Approximate distance from site: 340m Approximate OS map elevation: 83m AOD

Roman Road, located to the south of the airfield, is a popular cycle route and despite being a well-used minor road is also used by walkers. The airfield dominates the views from the road. Development Areas A and B will be visible. Dependant on the nature of the development of Area B, it is likely to be seen ASSESSMENT: against the existing airfield and employment buildings. Area A will be seen as an incursion into the open landscape and will be a prominent feature in this view. The magnitude of effect will somewhat dependant on the scale and massing of the development in Area A, but if, as has been suggested in some outline sketches 3 and 4 storeys are the norm, the magnitude of effect will increase. Receptor Sensitivity: Medium SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Moderate CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Medium The proposed development of Area A will be a prominent feature in this view, NATURE OF which is currently occupied by an open field backed by trees. The openness of EFFECT: the view will be reduced. Nature of Effect of the proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 3: Medium distance view through gap in hedge north-east from Bridleway SALS 1 on Castle Hill. Approximate distance from site: 635m Approximate OS map elevation: 100m AOD

This view is typical of those that will be available from the country park associated with Hampton Park and shows development Areas A and B. Area A will be prominent and will change the character and makeup of the view, such ASSESSMENT: that the residential development will become a key visual component, which due the elevated nature of the viewpoint will be difficult to mitigate. Area B will be visible, but dependant on the development type, will read as part of the existing development of airfield and employment buildings. Receptor Sensitivity: Medium SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Moderate CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Medium NATURE OF Area A will be prominent in this view and change the visual composition. The EFFECT: Nature of Effect of the proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 4: Medium distance, partially open view north-east, from footway along the A345 close to Old Sarum Castle. Approximate distance from site: 520m Approximate OS map elevation: 80m AOD

Development Area A is visible over the hedge and will be seen with a back drop of trees, employment buildings and residential properties. In the foreground pigs and arable land associated with Old Sarum Farm are distinctive features. ASSESSMENT: The housing, as proposed in the outline scheme, will be prominent and will change the visual composition of the current open view. Mitigation using tree cover will compound this. Area B is likely to be obscured by trees. Receptor Sensitivity: Medium/Low SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Moderate CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Moderate/Minor NATURE OF Area A will be prominent in this view and change its composition. The Nature of EFFECT: Effect of the proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 5: Adjacent view south-west from restricted byway LAFO17 (Green Lane) across Area C. Approximate distance from site: adjacent Approximate OS map elevation: 65m AOD

Proposed development Area C will dominate views from receptors using restricted byway LAFO17, which currently follows an open and largely rural route between Ford and Old Sarum. The composition and makeup of views will ASSESSMENT: change completely and thus the visual character will change to become urban rather than rural. However, the site does abut a relatively modern housing estate to the south, and some level of development may be possible without precipitating a wholescale change to the visual experience of receptors. Receptor Sensitivity: Medium SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Substantial CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Major/Moderate Area C will dominate this view and will result in the loss of the entire south-east NATURE OF part of the open airfield landscape, totally changing the visual composition the EFFECT: Nature of Effect of the proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 6: View south-east from the airfield car park, adjacent to the control tower, within the site Approximate distance from site: within Approximate OS map elevation: 75m AOD

The upper parts of development Area C will be visible in this view, which currently presents a seamless open vista from the airfield to the downland and ASSESSMENT: Figsbury Ring beyond. Receptors are likely to be airfield or museum visitors and not specifically at the site for the appreciation of the landscape. Receptor Sensitivity: Low SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Moderate CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Moderate/Minor Area C will break the continuity of this open view and will result in the loss of NATURE OF the south-east part of the open airfield landscape. Nature of Effect of the EFFECT: proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 7: Medium distance view west from Monarch’s Way long distance path Approximate distance from site: 745m Approximate OS map elevation: 80m AOD

Proposed development Area C will be visible as an extension to the village of Ford in this view. The residential proposals will largely cut through the open ASSESSMENT: green vista from this viewpoint towards Castle Hill, providing an incongruous feature and changing the composition of the view to give it a more urban appearance. Receptor Sensitivity: High SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Slight CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Moderate NATURE OF Area C will be seen in this view and will result in changing the visual composition EFFECT: of the view. Nature of Effect of the proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 8: Medium distance view north-west from close to A338 junction east of Ford Approximate distance from site: 1.12km Approximate OS map elevation: 63m AOD

Proposed development Area C will be visible as a residential extension beyond the village of Ford in this view. The residential proposals will largely cut through ASSESSMENT: the open green vista from this viewpoint reducing the open nature of the airfield. Areas A and B may also be visible but will not be readily discernible in this view. Receptor Sensitivity: Medium/Low SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Slight CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Moderate/Minor - Minor Area C will break the continuity of this open view and will result in the loss of NATURE OF the south-east part of the open airfield landscape. Nature of Effect of the EFFECT: proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 9: Long distance view west from Figsbury Ring Hill Fort close to the Monarch’s Way. Approximate distance from site: 3.1km Approximate OS map elevation: 145m AOD

Figsbury Ring is a National Trust property which attracts many visitors and is located on the downland to the east of Old Sarum Airfield. The viewpoint is representative of views from along the ridgeline, but is the most sensitive and attracts visitors who are likely to be visiting for the purpose of appreciating the landscape. There are panoramic views to the west and north. Old Sarum Airfield ASSESSMENT: and Castle are significant features within the view. The openness of the airfield is a key feature and its relationship with Old Sarum Castle can clearly be seen. While proposed Development Areas A and B will be difficult to discern at this distance Area C will be clearly visible as an incongruous urban extension into an otherwise open landscape. A reduction in the northern extent of Area C would help to retain the open nature and current composition of the view. Receptor Sensitivity: High SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Moderate/Slight CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Major/Moderate - Moderate Area C will break the continuity of this open view and will result in the loss of NATURE OF the south-east part of the open airfield landscape. Nature of Effect of the EFFECT: proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoints 10 & 11: Medium distance open views east from the outer ramparts of Old Sarum Castle. Approximate distance from site: 795 and 690m AOD Approximate OS map elevation: 110m AOD

VP10

VP11 Old Sarum Castle is a nationally important heritage asset which attracts many thousands of visitors from the UK and abroad. It is located immediately west of Old Sarum Airfield. These two viewpoints are representative of views from along the Castle and show the important relationship between the monument and the open airfield landscape, and the importance of restricting urban influences to maintain its landscape setting. Proposed Development Area B will be visible in the context of the existing ASSESSMENT: airfield and employment buildings. Area A will be prominent and will extend a large area of residential development in the open landscape between Castlegate and the receptor. The magnitude of effect will somewhat dependant on the scale and massing of the development in Area A, but if as has been suggested in some outline sketches, 3 and 4 storeys are the norm, the magnitude of effect will increase. Additionally, the proposed extent of Area C means that it will be visible in these views, thus closing the seamless open landscape which allows views towards

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Figsbury Ring and the ridgeline to the east and south-east. Large scale tree planting to mitigate these impacts will in itself create a further uncharacteristic feature which adversely affects the open nature of the views. Therefore, to be made acceptable Area A should be reduced in scale and primarily concentrated alongside the existing Castlegate Business Park and the Portway, but retaining the open vista along the Roman Road through the site. Area C must be moved south to reduce its impact in views from the monument. It will be necessary to control building heights to achieve this. For the purposes of this assessment a maximum ridge height of 9m has been assumed. Receptor Sensitivity: High SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Moderate CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Major/Moderate Area A will become a prominent feature in these views, with Area C also visible NATURE OF and thus bisecting the open landscape form which is characteristic and EFFECT: important in views from the Castle. Nature of Effect of the proposed development is Adverse.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Viewpoint 12: Medium distance view south-east from bridleway SALS97. Approximate distance from site: 1.37km Approximate OS map elevation: 90m AOD

Only proposed Development Area A has potential to be visible from this viewpoint. Assuming that the dwelling height is restricted it is unlikely that there will be any views during the summer months, and only strongly filtered views ASSESSMENT: when leaf cover is at a minimum, during the winter. If, as has been suggested in some outline sketches 3 and 4 storeys are the norm for Area A the magnitude of effect will increase. Receptor Sensitivity: Medium SIGNIFICANCE Magnitude of Effect: Slight CALCULATION: Significance of Effect: Moderate/Minor Area A will be strongly screened by existing tree belts, with potential limited NATURE OF views predominantly during the winter months. Nature of Effect of the EFFECT: proposed development is Adverse.

OVERALL SIGNIFICANCE OF VISUAL EFFECT 5.2.4 The Overall Visual Sensitivity of the viewpoints selected within the study area is High/Medium, taking account of the potential for residential views, as well as the well-used footpath network and important heritage features which attract many visitors. The potential for close views and medium and long distance elevated views of the site means that the proposed development will be visually prominent and even dominant to receptors. The proposed development areas will be visible as new features within the open landscape, and Area A will not relate well to the established existing residential context of the urban edge Old Sarum, although Area C will abut the existing development edge at Ford.

5.2.5 There is potential for some significant close distance views, particularly in respect of Area C from the adjacent restricted byway (Green Lane), and from the Portway adjacent to Area A. Area B

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire appears to be more generally reasonably well contained and visible in the context of the existing airfield and modern employment buildings, although the far western end may be more prominent from Old Sarum Castle. As the application is in outline with all matters reserved, throughout this appraisal an estimated ridge height of 9m has been used, but there are suggestions that to secure in excess of 300 dwellings on Area A, and retain the open nature of the airfield, 3 and even 4 storey residential buildings may be required. The Overall Magnitude of Visual Effect is considered to be Moderate resulting in the Overall Significance of Effect being considered Major/Moderate – Moderate, which is significant in some circumstances when considered under the LVIA methodology used in the assessment.

5.2.6 The outline development proposals submitted will see a significant change to the make-up and balance of views from several viewpoints, with the development areas being noticeably prominent from some high sensitivity viewpoints. The overall visual character of the area will be changed due to urban incursion into the open airfield landscape. Therefore, the Overall Nature of Visual Effect is considered to be Adverse.

5.2.7 At night the airfield is seen as a dark area, surrounded by lighting from the Old Sarum employment areas; residential areas to the north and south, and from further afield from Salisbury and various military establishments. Road lighting is also a significant feature and is particularly prominent at the A345/Portway roundabout. The development will increase the intrusion of artificial light into the dark area, but will likewise be seen in the context of, and extending from, the exiting peripheral lighting. The limiting of street, and external domestic lighting, as far as possible, will reduce the night-time impact of the development.

5.3 CONSTRUCTION EFFECTS 5.3.1 During construction, plant and materials will be visible. Although the construction effects associated with the development will be temporary and will have no lasting adverse effects on the recorded landscape and visual receptors, they will form a significant intrusion and change to the established visual character for a considerable period of time, particularly in views from Old Sarum Castle. Appropriate storage of construction material and equipment will help minimise any effects during construction.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire 6. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSIONS

6.1 The Wiltshire Core Strategy indicates at Figure 5.16 that there are three potential development areas peripheral to the central open airfield landscape at Old Sarum. This plan is provided as supporting evidence to Core Policy 25 (see 3.3.2 above) which sets out the delivery requirements for new development at Old Sarum Airfield.

6.2 Resulting from the assessment work undertaken in this LVIA it has become clear that, although some development in peripheral areas A to C could be acceptable in landscape and visual terms, the scale and massing of that development within those areas cannot produce the Applicant’s required number of dwellings without land-take. This will intrude significantly into the open airfield landscape or involve building three to four storey blocks on an open field within full view of the Old Sarum monument in Area A.

6.3 In respect of gaining permission for new development at Old Sarum policy CP 25 requires the delivery of six factors. In terms of landscape, bullet point ii is most relevant and states: a high quality strategic landscape improvement to mitigate impacts of existing intrusive buildings, to soften impacts when viewed both out and into the Conservation Area and from Old Sarum Scheduled Ancient Monument There have been no strategic landscape improvements offered. This applies particularly to Area A, where the construction of around 300 dwellings, possibly up to four storeys in height on land between the Castlegate employment site and the Old Sarum monument does not constitute ‘strategic landscape improvement’. Any development of this land should be tied with a landscape masterplan showing how the new development can: a) restrict encroachment onto the open airfield landscape when viewed from all parts of Old Sarum Castle, but retain the open route of the Portway Roman Road; b) mitigate the impacts of the new development without introducing block planting of tree belts which in themselves are incongruous features in the open landscape and at the same time integrate the development into the wider landscape; c) soften the impacts of existing intrusive buildings.

6.4 Although not part of the Reason for Refusal Policy CP51 – Landscape provides a more generic county-wide policy guiding the development and landscape requirements. The policy states: Development should protect, conserve and where possible enhance landscape character and must not have a harmful impact upon landscape character, while any negative impacts must be mitigated as far as possible through sensitive design and landscape measures……

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

In particular, proposals will need to demonstrate that the following aspects of landscape character have been conserved and where possible enhanced through sensitive design, landscape mitigation and enhancement measures: v. Landscape features of cultural, historic and heritage value. vi. Important views and visual amenity. At present there is no evidence that the proposals submitted, albeit in outline form have taken on board these requirements.

6.5 Likewise, Core Policy CP57 is a key policy in ensuring that the quality of development and its suitability for its location are given consideration throughout the design and mitigation processes. Again this was not a policy referred to in the Reason for Refusal. The most relevant parts of the policy from a landscape point of view are as follows: Development is expected to create a strong sense of place through drawing on the local context and being complementary to the locality. Applications for new development must be accompanied by appropriate information to demonstrate how the proposal will make a positive contribution to the character of Wiltshire through: i. Enhancing local distinctiveness by responding to the value of the natural and historic environment, relating positively to its landscape setting and the existing pattern of development and responding to local topography by ensuring that important views into, within and out of the site are to be retained and enhanced. ii. The retention and enhancement of existing important landscaping and natural features, (e.g. trees, hedges, banks and watercourses), in order to take opportunities to enhance biodiversity, create wildlife and recreational corridors, effectively integrate the development into its setting and to justify and mitigate against any losses that may occur through the development. iii. Responding positively to the existing townscape and landscape features in terms of building layouts, built form, height, mass, scale, building line, plot size, elevational design, materials, streetscape and rooflines to effectively integrate the building into its setting. iv. Being sympathetic to and conserving historic buildings and historic landscapes. vi. Making efficient use of land whilst taking account of the characteristics of the site and the local context to deliver an appropriate development which relates effectively to the immediate setting and to the wider character of the area.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

6.6 Taking the proposed development areas in turn, Area A is the most problematic. It is in an exposed location within the Old Sarum Airfield Conservation Area, on an area of open pasture bordered by the Portway to the north, Castlegate Business Park to the east, and the short mown airfield to the south. To the west is the pig farm with open views of Old Sarum Castle. When viewed from the monument Area A forms part of the open airfield landscape, but it also relates to the business park and the development north of the Portway. The site is prominent in views from the monument, but the scale and magnitude of those views is dependent on what is built on the site. Ideally, it should comprise relatively low density dwellings, with extensive structural landscape and retaining the open Roman Road link, so that the buildings are subsumed into the landscape without becoming unduly prominent. Also, the main body of the airfield i.e. the area to the south of the airport buildings should be fully visible from the Old Sarum Castle ramparts, thereby maintaining the open nature of this part of the landscape and visual setting of the monument and the retaining the open nature of the Old Sarum Airfield Conservation Area.

6.7 This will result in the need for a restriction on the development levels in Area A, both in respect of the extension to the south towards the mown airfield, and in the height and density of the development. By pulling the development edge back from the airfield on an axis taken at the south- west corner of the Castlegate Business Park, would enable visual receptors on the Old Sarum ramparts to have a west – east open view along the airfield. But if, as suggested, the residential buildings could then have to be up to four storeys in height in order to achieve the number of properties required by the appellant, this will become an incongruous and unduly prominent development form, which is almost impossible to successfully mitigate with strategic landscape planting. It would not be in compliance with CP25, CP51 and CP57, with the required ‘high quality strategic landscape improvements’ being unachievable. Development of that form and scale will draw the eye of receptors on Old Sarum Castle and will become unduly prominent and entirely uncharacteristic in the area to the south of the Portway. Likewise, the prominence of development in views from Castle Hill, Roman Road, the A345 and along the Portway will be increased by an incompatible and wholly inappropriate high density development located in a conservation area which is designated for its openness.

6.8 It is recommended that the development form should be led by the need to protect the landscape and visual setting of Old Sarum Castle; the character and appearance of the Old Sarum Airfield Conservation Area and; the requirements of policy CP25ii. The LVIA highlights the landscape and visual sensitivity of the site and its surroundings and the potential effects of developing Area A.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

These findings need to be acted on to produce an acceptable solution. Limiting ridge height, density and developable area are key to this, coupled with a landscape strategy which enhances the site and surrounding area, without the need to screen the development with block tree planting and tree belts.

6.9 Area B is located along the interface between the airfield buildings and the mown airfield. Development will comprise employment and airfield new build, building replacement and renovation. As the application is in outline the form and structure of the buildings has not been determined. So long as the building height is compatible with the existing hangar heights and the elevation and roof colouration is similar to that of the existing buildings and is non-reflective, landscape and visual impacts will be limited from all public viewpoints apart from potentially the westernmost building from Old Sarum Castle, and from within the site. There are no assessed significant adverse landscape and visual impacts relating to Area B.

6.10 Area C is located in the south-east corner of the airfield. It is located on a downslope away from the runway and borders former MoD land on the edge of the village of Ford, which was developed for housing in the 1970s. In principle Area C is a reasonable area to accept some development, which can be achieved with limited effects on the openness of the airfield when viewed from a distance. However, this has not been achieved in the outline proposals submitted. In close views users of restricted byway LAFO17 (Green Lane) will experience a significant adverse visual impact, with development abutting a considerable part of the lane’s western boundary. From further to the east at Monarch’s Way, the A338 junction east of Ford and Figsbury Hill, the northern part of the development cell will be seen as a linear development cutting through the unbroken countryside and almost connecting with the Old Sarum development. In views from Old Sarum Castle Area C will be seen protruding above the ridgeline, which in conjunction with Area A has the potential to bisect the open views across the airfield to the countryside beyond.

6.11 As with Area A there is concern that that mitigation required to prevent the above effects could involve the planting of tree belts, which is totally at odds with the open character of the airfield, although they are features within the wider landscape. In order to comply with CP25ii, it will be necessary to adopt the approach of integrating the development into the landscape using a landscape-led approach. Block planting suggests that there is an attempt to hide the development and this will not be acceptable. Therefore, structural planting integrated into the development form will be necessary.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire

6.12 The issue of the intrusion of the built form into the open land separating Ford from Old Sarum employment area can be overcome by ensuring that development does not extend further north than the buildings at Manor Farm. By the use of this area as Public Open Space, the dwellings can be incorporated into less sensitive parts of Area C. There will be a need to restrict ridge heights on the more elevated parts of Area C to prevent intervisibility with Old Sarum Castle, and it is considered that there should be no dwellings above 2 storey in height across the majority of the site.

6.13 LANDSCAPE STRATEGY 6.13.1 The aim of the landscape proposals overall should be to integrate the development into the local landscape while also taking account of the high sensitivity of the conservation area context of the site. The landscape strategy should ensure that existing vegetation is retained, managed and enhanced as far as possible, but also retains the open airfield landscape. The proposals should also aim to incorporate elements of the wider study area’s character alongside the local landscape and the existing residential character. Proposals should focus on the enhancement of the existing landscape structure, including the replacement of inappropriate species, as well as the establishment of areas of green infrastructure both within and around the development, using locally native species. The landscape and visual settings of heritage assets should be preserved and enhanced where possible.

6.13.2 It must not be the aim to screen the proposals, but to create a balanced setting for the development which takes account of existing historic heritage features, while also providing a strong landscape framework which works with the design and layout of the proposed development. New planting should take place around the development Areas’ peripheries where appropriate, specifically in areas where there is limited or weakened boundary definition. There should be a focus on removing inappropriate species and supplementing existing green infrastructure with native species, while also appropriately managing retained vegetation. Additionally, new ecological resources, such as retention/habitat ponds could be created. Limited, but strategic planting of large tree species can be used to replicate the landscape settings of existing residential developments in the area, while also serving as visual amenity features and adding varied structure to the development.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire 7. REFERENCES

ASSESSMENT GUIDANCE

The Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2013. Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 3rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge.

The Countryside Agency (Now Natural England) and Scottish Natural Heritage, 2002. Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland. Available through: Natural England website

MAPPING

Wiltshire Council, 2017. Public rights of way mapping. Available at:

British Geological Survey, 2017. Geology of Britain viewer. Available at:

Soilscapes, 2017. Soilscapes Map. Available at:

Natural England, 2010. Agricultural Land Classification Map South West Region. Available at:

Magic, 2017. Interactive Mapping. Available at:

Wiltshire Council, 2017. Online Mapping. Available at:

Historic England, 2017. The National Heritage List for England. Available at:

PLANNING

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, 2018. National Planning Policy Framework. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2

Wiltshire Council, 2015. Wiltshire Core Strategy. Available at:

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment Residential and Airfield Development at, July 2018 Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury, Wiltshire ltshirecorestrategy/corestrategydocuments.htm?directory=Adoption/Policy%20Maps%20- %20Community%20Areas>

CHARACTER ASSESSMENT

Natural England, 2014. NCA: 132. Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs. Available through: Natural England website < http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/5001829523914752

Land Use Consultants, 2005. Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment. Available at: Wiltshire Council website

Salisbury District Council, 2008. Salisbury District Landscape Character Assessment. Available through: Wiltshire Council website

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