HATCH FARM LAND LTD

LAND WEST OF MILL LANE, SINDLESHAM , WEST

SANG Landscape Design Strategy

Prepared: KM Approved: JJ Date: 07.05.20 Project Reference LLD1347A

Revision 01

Status PLANNING CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION...... 3 2.0 SITE CONTEXT...... 5 3.0 POLICY GUIDANCE / (SANG) DESIGN CRITERIA...... 10 4.0 PROPOSED SANG DESIGN AND STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES...... 12

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 3

1.0 INTRODUCTION Purpose of the Report

General 1.4 The Site is situated to the outer edge of the 7km Bramshill Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Impact Risk Zone (IRZ) as 1.1 Lizard Landscape Design and Ecology has been commissioned defined by Natural . The IRZ is defined to reflect the to develop a Landscape Design Strategy for the land west of particular sensitivities of the features for which it is notified. Hatch Farm, Mill Lane, Sindlesham (central Grid Reference: SU76646975) to be utilised as a proposed Suitable Alternative 1.5 The Bramshill SSSI forms part of the broader Thames Basin Natural Greenspace (SANG). Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA) classified in accordance with European Council Directive (2009/147/EC) on the 1.2 This report and associated documents have been prepared to conservation of wild birds). support a planning application for the change of use from equine use as paddock land to provision of SANG. 1.6 Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace are specific areas created to provide enhanced natural environments for recreational 1.3 For illustration of the landscape proposals refer to LLD1347-LAN- enjoyment as an alternative to the Thames Basin Heaths SPA, DWG-010 - SANG Landscape Masterplan. therefore relieving pressure on the Special Protection Area.

1.7 The following SANG Landscape Design Strategy seeks to establish a landscape baseline context and outlines the design intent and objectives of the proposed landscape scheme, providing an overview of proposed landscape character areas and habitat interventions, along with functionality and accessibility.

1.8 The design strategy has been developed utilising the ‘Guidelines for the creation of Suitable Accessible Natural Green Space (SANG)’ (Natural England, 2008) and informed by desk study and site visit undertaken to appraise existing features on Site and the surrounding area.

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 4

Legend

Approx. Site Boundary

Public Right of Way

Open Access (CROW2000)

M4

Mill Lane

M4

Figure 1. Landscape Context / Access Google Earth. Imagery ©2020

N

500 m

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 5

2.0 SITE CONTEXT

The site and surrounds

2.1 The proposed SANG area (referred to as the Site) is situated upon land west of Hatch Farm and directly south of the M4 corridor as it extends along the south eastern surburban edge of Reading, passing Lower and .

2.2 The site is located west of the estate village of Sindlesham which sits centrally within the , approximately 6km south east of Reading and 10km west of .

2.3 The M4 is a major arterial corridor which connects several major towns and conurbations along its route collectively known as the Thames Valley. The River Thames itself flows south from Oxford through the Chilterns (AONB) toward the north eastern edge of Reading where it is joined by the tributary .

2.4 The River Loddon, bridged by the M4, flows from the southwest toward Winnersh, passes within 200m as it meanders to the north west (+39m aOD) and north east (+38m aOD) of the site.

Habitat

2.5 With reference to MAGIC dataset mapping (DEFRA; Natural England) the habitat catchment of the Loddon is reflected and dominated by the swathe of 'Coastal and Floodplain Grazing Marsh' as listed within the Priority Habitat Inventory and described as 'Semi-improved and improved grassland with marsh elements along the River Loddon flood plain'.

2.6 Other notable priority habitat largely comprises woodland types; principally the 'Wood-pasture and Parkland' of Bearwood College (GII* Listed Registered Park and Garden) in relative proximity to the south east, and by scattered blocks and copses of ' Deciduous Woodland' interconnected by hedgerows with intermittent trees. There is limited 'Ancient Semi-natural Woodland' generally within the locality though a small block (<2.0 Ha) known as 'Loaders Copse' is found within 150m of the site's western most extent. Map produced by MAGIC on 17/04/2020 (c) Crown Copyright and database rights 2020. Ordnance Survey 100022861. 2.7 A small slither of 'Traditional Orchard' edges Mole Road to the N Habitat Mapping western edge of Bear Wood Lake, south of West Park House. 500 m This is likely remnant of a larger though contained tract of orchard plantation as noted within reference to historic mapping.

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 6

Map produced by MAGIC on 17/04/2020 (c) Crown Copyright and database rights 2020. Historic analysis: OS Six-inch England and Wales, 1842-1952 (pub. 1883) Historic analysis: OS Six-inch England and Wales, 1842-1952 (pub.1944) Historic Designations Historic analysis Landscape Character

2.8 With further reference to the historic map analysis above it can 2.11 Historic designations are illustrated within the final extract 2.14 The site is situated within the National Character Area 'Thames be seen that the fieldscape of the surrounding, predominantly above; whilst the character of the existing field pattern remains Valley' the key characteristics of which are summarised as; agricultural landscape, remained largely unchanged from the substantially the same, the extent of development expansion 2.15 'Flat and low-lying land, rising to low, river-terraced hills' with late C19th to mid C20th. Marshland along the Loddon has greater illustrated within the current Ordnance Survey base mapping 'numerous hydrological features [which] include the River Thames illustrative emphasis. is markedly increased with both settlement and the M4 new and its tributaries' provide more recognisable uniting components. significant influences on the landscape character. 2.9 There is some minor change (increase) in woodland cover noted 'Grazed pasture is the major land use within a generally open, to the south west, about Carter's Hill, between 'The Holt' and 2.12 The site is located in proximity of Bearwood College, the grounds flat and featureless landscape. The field pattern is medium-scale the site with incremental loss along Mole Road due to land-use of which are recognised as a GII* Listed Registered Park and and irregular'. The character area is described as being of an change. Garden. The text associated with the listing highlights describes urban character 'densely populated and developed' with 'pockets the surrounding landscape character; of woodland, open grassland, parkland, wetlands and intimate 2.10 Within the 1944 published map the nursery plantation west meadows [which] provide escape and tranquillity, and include of Mole Road is given over to sewage beds with a series of 2.13 'The undulating ground slopes generally from south to north, the a variety of habitats supporting important populations of many elongated residential plots established immediately adjacent to setting being largely agricultural and wooded, with the village of species'. The area is noted as important for its recreational value, the north and the orchard west of Bear Wood Lake is all but lost. lying at the south-east corner and Sindlesham adjacent for residents and visitors. A small area to the south falls within the A notable change between the 1883 and 1944 maps is the formal to the north'. Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA) buffer zone. residential development of Winnersh to the north east.

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 7

2.16 The site lies immediately south of the River Loddon. With 2.22 With reference to the Wokingham Borough Landscape Character reference to the Wokingham Borough Landscape Character Assessment (LUC; November 2019) the larger portion of the Assessment (LUC; November 2019) a portion of the site, to the site sits upon the rising ground adjacent to the River Loddon north western corner falls within the Landscape Character Type floodplain. Within the Landscape Character Type C - River Terrace A - River Valley is 'distinguished by a flat lowland alluvial or river 'is distinguished by a flat landform of younger river terraces, close terrace floodplain, which supports a mixture of arable and pastoral to the modern rivers. A semi-enclosed landscape of large-scale Proposed farmland and important wetland habitats. A partially wooded agricultural fields, divided by post and wire fencing or hedgerows, SANG location context creates a semi-enclosed landscape, which is sparsely with settlement connections to the adjacent river.. settled and popular for recreation'. 2.23 Within the study the more detailed Character Area LCA C1: 2.17 Within the study the more detailed Character Area A2: Loddon River Terrace is summarised as; LCA C1 River Valley is summarised as; 2.24 '... A large scale, open agricultural landscape slightly elevated LCA A2 2.18 '... the flat alluvial floodplain of the River Loddon. An agricultural above the Loddon floodplain. The area is crossed by a network of landscape of irregular fields, with large scale arable fields on better small lanes and tracks while larger roads run east-west providing drained areas and small scale wet meadows on frequently flooded access across the river. Areas of historic parkland... contrast with land adjacent to the river. Largely peaceful, ... disturbance comes the intensively farmed character of the landscape.' from major roads which cross the floodplain including the M4, and 2.25 The LCA key characteristics describe the Arborfield River Terrace adjacent developments in Earley, Winnersh...'. Extract illustrating LCA A2: Loddon River Valley as a ' gently undulating river terrace landform between 45-50m Wokingham Borough Landscape Character Assessment (LUC; November 2019) 2.19 The LCA key characteristics describe the Loddon River Valley as AOD to the east of the River Loddon floodplain... better drained... 'A broad, flat alluvial floodplain' within which 'the River Loddon and therefore intensively farmed... with medium to large fields follows a meandering course within braided channels' set against bound by indistinct boundaries... with occasional gappy remnant 'a wooded backdrop provided by scattered blocks of deciduous hedgerows. Some horse paddocks present...' The study notes woodland and copses, interlinked woodland belts and scattered 'Small woodland and copses break up the agricultural plain. mature trees and scrub'. The landscape comprises 'pasture and Priority habitat mixed lowland deciduous woodland dominates, arable farmland in medium and large irregular geometric fields... with some wet woodland designated as LWS (...Loaders Copse). The areas closest to the river are affected by flooding and are 2.26 Remnant historic parkland... The presence of mature oaks Proposed characterised by pasture and wet meadow'. SANG location provides a strong silhouette against the open sky' with 'Tree-lined 2.20 The study suggests that there is an 'overall perception of a narrow lanes, tracks, byways and footpaths allow recreational landscape in moderate condition. However, views to adjacent large access to the river terrace, and access to the Loddon floodplain...' scale development and busy infrastructure corridors, particularly LCA C1 2.27 Rural character and sense of remoteness... is interrupted by the in the north of the area fragment the rural landscape. There are transport corridors in the north of the area, [the M4]. opportunities for improvement and particular enhancement to LCA A2 habitat interconnectivity'. 2.28 In terms of landscape strategy, the study considers key aspects to be restoration, enhancement and management of existing 2.21 In terms of landscape strategy, the study considers key aspects valued components such as historic parkland, former hedgerow to include the conservation and active management of natural boundaries and trees, and coppiced woodlands but also to habitats including areas of wet woodland and wet meadow increase the extent of native deciduous woodland and tree'd Extract illustrating LCA C1: Arborfield River Terrace alongside the restoration and reinstatement of valued components Wokingham Borough Landscape Character Assessment hedgerow planting, with native species. Encourage restoration such as hedgerow boundaries with native species, and a strategy (LUC; November 2019) and positive management of existing natural habitat and promote of creation and enhancement alongside the river. habitat creation where the opportunity arises.

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Great Britain’s Light Pollution and Dark Skies

Night Lights

(NanoWatts / cm2/sr ) >32 (Brightest) 16 - 32 8 - 16 4 - 8 2 - 4 (Brighter) 1 - 2 0.5 - 1 0.25 - 0.5 < 0.25 (Darkest)

Landscape Design Strategy 8 Each pixel shows the level of Site Description

2.29 The proposed SANG location is situated within land to the west of Hatch Farm, Mill Lane, Sindlesham, aligned immediately south radiance (Night Lights) shining up of the corridor which, embanked above, forms the northern boundary, physically separating the site from the urban influence of Reading and its surrounding suburban environment. into the night sky. These have Scale, topography, landuse

2.30 The parcel for inclusion within the SANG land enhancement comprises an area of approximately 11.6 Ha (excluding access been categorised into colour bands and parking areas), is currently utilised by the nearby stables as paddock fields. The stables are part of a 'ramshackle' collection of barns and storage buildings with access gained from Mill Lane. to distinguish between different 2.31 The ground falls from the southern plateaued terrace aligned with 100m 100m Gypsy Lane (c. +50m aOD) uniformly toward the central portion © Natural England copyright 2016. Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2016 Google Earth © 2020 Google Earth Observation Group, NOAA National Geophysical Data Center. Developed by LUC of the paddock land (c. +45m aOD) before leveling to a low point Aerial Image Site Context Urban Influence: Illumination impact (CPRE Light Pollution Mapping) toward the north western parcel edge (c. +38m aOD). light levels. Please see the report 2.32 The field parcel is relatively large scale and entirely open except for paddock division by electric fences strung across the area, with no meaningful vegetation within the site interior. for more information on this.

Bedrock geology: Geology, soils, drainage London Clay Formation Superficial geology: 2.33 Underlying geology is understood to be of the London Clay Sedimentary Alluvium

Superficial geology: Formation, a sedimentary bedrock of clay, silt and sand with River Terrace Deposit superficial fluvial sedimentary deposits of detrital Alluvium (clay, silt, sand and gravel) aligned with the permeation of the Loddon floodplain within the north eastern edge of the land parcel. Further sedimentary superficial River Terrace Deposits of sand and gravel contains the parcel upon the higher ground.

2.34 The soil type is understood through reference to Soilscapes Mapping Cranfield University; Defra) to comprise: ‘Loamy soils with naturally high groundwater’. Habitats with which this soil type is associated include: ‘Wet acid meadows and woodland’. This is reflected in the ground conditions where, due to the proximity of the River Loddon floodplain which permeates the site, standing groundwater (whilst potentially seasonal) is apparent - particularly 100m 100m to the north western edge below the M4 embankment. Esri UK, Esri, HERE, Garmin, INCREMENT P, USGS, METI/NASA © Environment Agency copyright and / or database rights 2018. All rights reserved. © Crown Copyright and database right 2018. Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2017 Ordnance Survey license number 100024198. Geological Influence River Loddon Flood Zone

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01

© Natural England copyright 2016. Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2016 Earth Observation Group, NOAA National Geophysical Data Center. Developed by LUC © OpenStreetMap contributors

For best results the map should be printed at A4 landscape. Landscape Design Strategy 9

View northward toward M4 corridor from PRoW point of access upon the Vegetation 2.42 Through reference to historic map analysis the PRoW footpath is south-western boundary evidently well established provision within the site. An assumption 2.35 The site interior is substantially devoid of meaningful vegetation. could be made that its diagonal route which appears substantially The land is kept for equestrian use and routinely grazed by horses unchanged between the (OS Six-inch England and Wales, 1842- associated with the nearby stables. The paddock grassland has 1952) published maps of 1883 and 1944 avoids the lower-lying, been classified as Semi-improved grassland. wetter ground associated with its proximity to the floodplain. 2.36 The site is bound to the eastern edge by a mature scrub hedgerow 2.43 There is no CROW Act 2000 Access Land directly associated with scattered with young trees and occasional mature Oaks to the the proposed land parcel, however a small area lies as common northern edge. Species largely include thorns and broadleaves land within proximity, south of the site area, recorded as Land edged by ruderal growth . The hedge is aligned with a stream adjoining Gipsy Lane, Winnersh (Common Land Number CL21). which runs within, north toward the River Loddon. View to eastern boundary hedgerow vegetation from site interior External Influence / intrusion 2.37 The southern extent of the paddock fields are defined by a treeline of mature Oak and Ash with underlying mature scrub 2.44 Carrying a significant amount of arterial traffic, the M4 motorway hedgerow vegetation largely aligned with Gypsy Lane (PRoW). corridor passes immediately adjacent to the land parcel and is This vegetation lies well beyond the proposed SANG boundary but the primary source of external influence upon the site area, both forms a mid-distant backdrop to the upper paddocks. visually and audibly. The motorway is lit and this contributes to increased light spill locally as referenced within the CPRE 2.38 The western boundary is in part open to an adjacent enclosed mapping for Dark Night Skies and results in reduced tranquility field-scape of smaller irregular parcels (associated with residential below the median. / light commerce plots) but defined by a number of mature Oaks which are scattered along a small watercourse, densely underlain 2.45 The M4, in combination with the braided channel of the Loddon View across land from M4 corridor to southern plateau and treeline by waterside scrub to the north eastern extent. and immediate floodplain, marks a physical separation of the vegetation aligned with Gypsy Lane site from the built environs of suburban Reading and outlying 2.39 Whilst the site interior vegetation is limited and the existing parishes. vegetation to the boundaries is variable in condition there is some connectivity to the surrounding landscape, particularly along 2.46 There is otherwise relatively minor visual intrusion of built form the drainage corridors to the east and west of the land parcel. from the surrounding environment. Timber telegraph poles carry Loader's Copse, a block of Ancient Semi Natural Woodland lies overhead cables within the northeastern-most edge and which some 130m beyond the north western boundary. extend following the eastern edge of the eastern boundary hedgerow; a station of telecom masts are grouped to the Access Image Capture: Jul2019 © 2020 Google southeastern edge of the wider paddocks but, along with the larger scale hanger building of the Nirvana Spa complex beyond, View to western boundary treeline vegetation across lower lying ground 2.40 The eastern boundary hedgerow is bridged to the southern end of northern site interior to provide equine and vehicular access between the stables and are predominantly viewed against the backdrop of mature trees paddocks. Pedestrian access to and within the boundaries is and underlying vegetation aligned with Gypsy Lane and further, otherwise made as part of the public right of way network. the mature trees edging Mole Road and the imposing conifers of Bearwood College. 2.41 Public Right of Way footpath WINN08 enters the north eastern corner of the land parcel via a small footbridge extending from Mill Lane, across the adjacent land before heading southwest from mid-point along the northern boundary. The PRoW footpath joins a local byway some 100m south west of the boundary connecting then to Gypsy Lane and beyond to the surrounding network.

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 10

3.0 POLICY GUIDANCE / (SANG) DESIGN CRITERIA 3.7 Framework Chapter 14 'Meeting the Challenge of Climate Change, 3.17 b) promote the conservation, restoration and enhancement of Flooding and Coastal Change' states 'Plans should take a priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection and Planning Policy proactive approach to mitigating and adapting to climate change, recovery of priority species; and identify and pursue opportunities 3.1 SANG applications are subject to consideration in accordance taking into account the long-term implications for flood risk, coastal for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity. with national and local planning policies. Planning policy at local change, water supply, biodiversity and landscapes, and the risk of 3.18 The framework chapter continues that; level shall be in accordance with the policies set out within the overheating from rising temperatures'. National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). A number of these 3.19 '... development whose primary objective is to conserve or 3.8 Framework Chapter 15 'Conserving and Enhancing the Natural are outlined below. enhance biodiversity should be supported; while opportunities to Environment' states that 'Planning policies and decisions should incorporate biodiversity improvements... should be encouraged, 3.2 Within the (NPPF) framework, Chapter 2 'Achieving Sustainable contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment' by: especially where this can secure measurable net gains for Development' states that planning should meet an environmental 3.9 a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, sites of biodiversity'. objective 'to contribute to protecting and enhancing our natural, biodiversity or geological value and soils (in a manner built and historic environment; including making effective use 3.20 The framework chapter continues that; Planning policies and commensurate with their statutory status or identified quality..); of land, helping to improve biodiversity, using natural resources decisions should take into account the likely effects of pollution prudently, minimising waste and pollution, and mitigating and 3.10 b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the on health, living conditions and the natural environment, and adapting to climate change, including moving to a low carbon countryside, and the wider benefits from natural capital and potentially impacts upon the wider area, for example: to mitigate economy'. ecosystem services...' and reduce noise giving rise to significant adverse impacts on health and the quality of life; by protecting tranquil areas which 3.3 Within Chapter 8 'Promoting Healthy and Safe Communities', the 3.11 d) minimising impacts on and providing net gains for biodiversity, have remained relatively undisturbed by noise, and which are framework states that policies should seek to 'enable and support including by establishing coherent ecological networks...; valued for their recreational and amenity; and reducing the impact healthy lifestyles, especially where this would address identified 3.12 e) preventing ..., unacceptable levels of soil, air, water or noise of light pollution from artificial light on local amenity, intrinsically local health and well-being needs – for example through the pollution... . [and] should, wherever possible, help to improve local dark landscapes and nature conservation. provision of safe and accessible green infrastructure,...'. environmental conditions such as air and water quality... ; and 3.21 Proposals should seek 'Opportunities to improve air quality or 3.4 Framework Chapter 11 'Making Effective Use of Land' states that 3.13 f) remediating and mitigating despoiled, degraded, derelict, mitigate impacts... such as through traffic and travel management, policies should; contaminated and unstable land, where appropriate. and green infrastructure provision and enhancement'. 3.5 'a) encourage multiple benefits from both urban and rural land, ... 3.14 Framework Chapter 15 also emphasises that maintaining and Local Planning Policy taking opportunities to achieve net environmental gains – such... enhancing networks of habitats and green infrastructure should be that would enable new habitat creation or improve public access 3.22 The proposed site is located within the local authority of encouraged at all scales. to the countryside'; and also 'b) recognise that some undeveloped Wokingham Borough. The current planning policy is set out land can perform many functions, such as for wildlife, recreation, 3.15 With regard to Habitat and Biodiversity the framework states that within the Wokingham Borough Core Strategy Development Plan flood risk mitigation, cooling/shading, carbon storage or food to protect and enhance biodiversity and geodiversity, plans should: Document (Adopted 29 January 2010). production'; and that local authorities should 'c) ... support 3.16 a) ... safeguard components of local wildlife-rich habitats and 3.23 The Core Strategy sets out to protect and enhance key features appropriate opportunities to remediate despoiled, degraded, wider ecological networks, including the hierarchy of international, of the borough’s landscape, ecology, heritage and environment in derelict, contaminated or unstable land...' national and locally designated sites of importance for biodiversity; accordance with its core policies. A number of such policies are 3.6 Framework Chapter 12 'Achieving Well-designed Places' states wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them; and summarised below; that policies should ensure to 'create places that are safe, areas identified by national and local partnerships for habitat inclusive and accessible and which promote health and well- management, enhancement, restoration or creation; and being, with a high standard of amenity for existing and future users...'.

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 11

3.24 CP1 - Sustainable Development SANG Design Criteria • Paths must be easily used and well maintained but most should remain unsurfaced to avoid the site becoming to urban 3.25 The policy states that proposals should 'Maintain or enhance the 3.37 The Site is situated to the outer edge of the 7km Bramshill Site in feel. high quality of the environment'. of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Impact Risk Zone (IRZ) as defined by Natural England. The Bramshill SSSI forms part • SANGS must be perceived as semi-natural spaces with 3.26 Within the footnotes of core policy CP1 it states that the 'The of the broader Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area little intrusion of artificial structures, except in the immediate Council’s Landscape Character Assessment highlights the areas (SPA) classified in accordance with European Council Directive vicinity of car parks. Visually-sensitive way-markers and some of the borough with landscapes which should be protected or (2009/147/EC) on the conservation of wild birds). benches are acceptable. enhanced by development'. 3.38 A SANG is a compensatory device for the allocation of land to • All SANGS larger than 12 ha must aim to provide a variety of 3.27 'Proposals that enhance the quality of the environment of the be promoted for recreational use to relieve visitor pressure upon habitats for users to experience. borough could include those that improve the openness of the existing internationally or nationally designated sites. In order areas outside of development limits...'. • Access within the SANGS must be largely unrestricted with for local authorities to assess quality and quantity of SANG plenty of space provided where it is possible for dogs to 3.28 CP8 - Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area provision Natural England has published guidelines (Appendix exercise freely and safely off lead. 1: Site Quality Checklist – for a suite of SANGS) setting out 3.29 'Development which alone or in combination is likely to have a specific criteria including those considered essential to be met, • SANGS must be free from unpleasant intrusions (e.g. sewage significant effects on the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection summarised below; treatment works smells etc). Area will be required to demonstrate that adequate measures to avoid and mitigate any potential adverse effects are delivered.' • For all sites larger than 4ha there must be adequate parking Additional Criteria for visitors, unless the site is intended for local use, i.e. within 3.30 CP11 - Proposals outside Development Limits (including 3.39 Additional criteria as referred to within planning policy, easy walking distance (400m) of the developments linked to it. countryside) national and local landscape character assessment, alongside The amount of car parking space should be determined by the environmental guidance by authoritative bodies and stewardship 3.31 'In order to protect the separate identity of settlements and anticipated use of the site and reflect the visitor catchment of partnerships have been considered and inform the primary maintain the quality of the environment, proposals outside of both the SANGS and the SPA. strategic objectives for the proposed SANG design. development limits will not normally be permitted except where: it • It should be possible to complete a circular walk of 2.3-2.5km contributes and/or promotes recreation in, and enjoyment of, the around the SANGS. countryside; ...' • Car parks must be easily and safely accessible by car and 3.32 TB23 - Biodiversity and Development should be clearly sign posted. 3.33 Proposals shall need to demonstrate how they: • The accessibility of the site must include access points 3.34 'Provide opportunities, including through design, layout and appropriate for the particular visitor use the SANGS is landscaping to incorporate new biodiversity features or enhance intended to cater for. existing; • The SANGS must have a safe route of access on foot from 3.35 Provide appropriate buffer zones between development proposals the nearest car park and/or footpath/s and designated sites as well as habitats and species of principle • All SANGS with car parks must have a circular walk which importance for nature conservation starts and finishes at the car park. 3.36 Ensure that all existing and new developments are ecologically • SANGS must be designed so that they are perceived to be permeable through the protection of existing and the provision of safe by users; they must not have tree and scrub cover along new continuous wildlife corridors, which shall be integrated and parts of the walking routes linked to the wider green infrastructure network'.

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 12

4.0 PROPOSED SANG DESIGN AND STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES SANG ACCESS (and information) POINT Strategic Objectives PLACE OF INTEREST (DESTINATION POINT) Bridged access point * PRIMARY ROUTE (2.3 - 2.5KM) 4.1 The primary objective of the proposed SANG Design Strategy is to achieve the essential criteria set out by Natural England for the * SECONDARY ROUTES - (linked access paths) deliverance of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace in order to * M4 motorway protect the Thames Heath Basin Special Protection Area. Boundary reinforcement / Deciduous woodland * infrastructure planting 4.2 The SANG criteria shall be achieved through: prow footpath planting areas

Primary route 2.5km Car park • Provision of adequate and accessible parking facilities; Green Infrastructure / tree planting • Provision of 2.3 - 2.5km circuitous walk which is directly * accessible to pedestrians and that commences and terminates Bridged access point at the car park; Boardwalk Natural way-markers / place-maker focal points • Provision of walking routes within the SANG that are perceived * as safe, sufficiently open and unobstructed by vegetation; * * Woodland Copse Wetland scrapes / * planting Ephemeral wetlands Secondary link paths • Provision of routes that shall be restricted to a variety of * unsurfaced paths or those that provide adequate accessibility * * but are contextual in character (i.e. with natural aggregates / Lowland meadows Traditional Orchards * Grassland Meadows materials) and conducive to the landscape environment; * • Perception of the SANG as a semi-natural environment with little artificial structure or unpleasant intrusions; Parkland Trees Tussock Grassland • Experiential provision of a variety of habitats for visitors to Boundary reinforcement / infrastructure planting * enjoy and a largely unrestricted space for dogs to exercise PRoW footpath safely and freely off lead; Parking / Vehicular Access Provision Linear Oaks 4.3 The proposed SANG would seek to provide desirable features as referencing PRoW set out within the Natural England guidance.

• It is anticipated that 'off-lead' access from the car park would be provided;

• The site provides gentle undulation which would be enhanced within the SANG by localised ground-modelling;

Connected access • The SANG would offer areas of non-wooded, open space as to existing PRoW network well as areas of dense and scattered trees and native shrub vegetation; the SANG also incorporates water features;

• Provision of a variety of natural 'way-marker' focal points. Proposed SANG Landscape Masterplan

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 13

Landscape and Vegetation • Manage the integration of equine related activities into the landscape through the establishment of boundary hedgerows with 4.4 The proposed SANG would provide opportunities to contribute native species tree planting. toward Ecosystem Services and to the Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEOs) as set out by Natural England • Creation of parkland habitat and restoration and positive for the National Character Area 115: Thames Valley. management of parkland and farmland for farmland birds

4.5 The proposed SANG would seek to achieve the landscape Access and Circulation management guidelines as set out within the Wokingham Surfaced path within meadows - primary access (2.3 - 2.5km) • Parking facilities would be provided within the parcel of land to the Borough Landscape Character Assessment for Character Areas east of the SANG, accessed from Mill Lane. The SANG would be A2: Loddon River Valley and C1: Arborfield River Terrace by; within 50m walk from the parking area and would provide direct • Increasing the extent of native deciduous woodland, using access to the primary 2.3 - 2.5km circular walk within the SANG. locally occurring native species to create green links to other Gated bridged access would ensure off lead access to the SANG. woodland habitats and to dampen extreme river flows within • Signage would be provided at the car park to provide information river catchments; of the SANG including a map of primary access routes, principle • Creation of new hedgerows with a wide diversity of native character areas with further information of habitat types and species, to provide greater ecological connectivity with the associated biodiversity. Subtle 'wayfinder' posts would be Mown paths within meadows - secondary / link access adjacent existing habitat; distributed about the SANG access at appropriate locations, information plaques could be inset within the posts for interest. • The provision and management of biodiverse grasslands, including the creation of wet meadows; • Access to the SANG would also be achieved on foot as part of wider recreational access, as the SANG utilises connection to the • Establishment and positive management of lowland meadow, surrounding PRoW network. The primary route would be surfaced wet woodland and parkland (as Loddon Valley South BOA) with a natural self binding aggregate to promote greater inclusivity; • Conserving [and enhancement of] the rural character of the secondary access would follow desire lines and primarily comprise Additional surfacing - non intrusive / natural materials river corridor and by protecting the sensitive areas of open mown or worn paths. A simple timber boardwalk would allow land against development of the floodplain; recreational access over seasonally wetter parts of the site.

• Enhance sense of place through well considered contextually • Further design considerations include provision of an open referenced landscape design; unobstructed route with natural components such as feature trees providing 'waywarkers' and focal point destinations. • Utilising green infrastructure and tree planting to help integrate the M4 motorway within the landscape setting and 4.6 The SANG character areas are further defined below. For illustration to minimise the negative impacts of lighting, noise and traffic of the landscape proposals refer to LLD1347-LAN-DWG-010 - disturbance of the transport corridor upon adjacent areas of SANG Landscape Masterplan. Bridged access - non intrusive / natural materials; gated to allow 'off-lead' roaming higher tranquillity, including the experience of dark skies.

• Promoting conservation of the small woodlands which punctuate the arable landscape and creation of new copse habitat, providing opportunity for establishing coppicing as a management tool;

• Conserve the open and rural qualities of the landscape through establishment of broad areas of open grassland Signage and Information - non intrusive / natural materials; and trees as natural 'place-makers / way-markers' meadow, enhancing wildlife interest for farmland birds; HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01 Landscape Design Strategy 14

SANG Principle Character Areas * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Wet woodland Wetland ponds Parkland habitat Woodland coppice Lowland meadows Tussock grassland management * * * *

Wetland scrape ephemeral habitat Deciduous woodland planting Traditional orchards Open mosaic: grassland meadows

SANG Character Area: Wetland Habitats SANG Character Area: Woodland Habitats SANG Character Area: Grassland Habitats

HATCH FARM LAND LTD LAND WEST OF HATCH FARM: SANG LLD1347A-LAN-REP-001/KM/07.05.20/Rev01