BARRATT DAVID WILSON HIGHFIELD LANE

Appendix C

Landscape and Visual Appraisal

PDP Associates

November 2015

Highfield Lane, Prudhoe Landscape and Visual Appraisal November 2015

CONTENTS PAGE

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION 3 SECTION 2 METHODOLOGY 4 SECTION 3 APPRAISAL CRITERIA 5 SECTION 4 BASELINE CONDITIONS 12 SECTION 5 POTENTIAL EFFECTS 19 SECTION 6 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL APPRAISAL 20 SECTION 7 MITIGATION 27 SECTION 8 PHOTOGRAPHIC VIEWS 28 SECTION 9 SUMMARY OF LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS 36 SECTION 10 CONCLUSION 39

APPENDIX

FIGURE 1. SITE LOCATION FIGURE 2. TOPOGRAPHY FIGURE 3. NATIONAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS FIGURE 4. REGIONAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS FIGURE 5. LANDSCAPE/SETTLEMENT PATTERN FIGURE 6. HISTORICAL GROWTH PATTERN FIGURE 7. CONNECTIVITY FIGURE 8. VISUAL ANALYSIS FIGURE 9 ZONE OF THEORETICAL INTERVISIBILIY (MAP A) FIGURE 10 ZONE OF THEORETICAL INTERVISIBILTY (MAP B) FIGURE 11 PHOTOGRAPHIC LOCATIONS FIGURE 12 LANDSCAPE GUIDELINES

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PDP Associates Great Asby Appleby in Westmorland Cumbria CA16 6HD

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SECTION 1; INTRODUCTION

1.1 PDP Associates is a landscape architectural practice based in Cumbria with experience in landscape and visual impact assessment undertaken for a variety of clients, ranging from residential developers to local authorities. Recent studies include an assessment of potential development parcels as part of the evidence base for Eden District Council's Local Development Framework. Eden District is a sparsely populated rural area in Cumbria which includes parts of the Lake District National Park and The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

1.2 PDP Associates has been commissioned by Barratt David Wilson to carry out a landscape and visual appraisal on land off Highfield Lane, Prudhoe.

1.3 The proposed site is located off Highfield Lane on the southern fringe of Prudhoe. The site is bounded by Highfield Lane to the north, by Prudhoe Community High School and Media Centre to the east and by open farmland to the south and west. The site lies within land currently designated as Green Belt. The proposed site covers approximately 27.5 hectares of arable and pasture land.

1.4 The following site appraisal is based on outline proposals for a residential development. This study considers the potential landscape/visual effects and impacts associated with the change in land use from farmland to residential/urban and the loss of Green Belt. It also makes recommendations for mitigation measures which can be incorporated in the Site Layout Plan.

1.5 It is assumed that the proposed development will comprise residential properties with internal roads, lighting, new boundary treatments, landscaping, street planting and gardens. The site will be accessed off Highfield Lane.

1.6 The landscape and visual appraisal involves an element of subjectivity on the part of the assessor. Professional judgement, taking into account a combination of quantitative and qualitative factors is now widely accepted as best practice for assessing effects on landscape character and on visual amenity. The approach taken for this study broadly follows the guidance recommended by the Landscape Institute/Institute of Environmental Page 3 Assessment Guidelines for landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA) and also by the Countryside Agency/Scottish Natural Heritage Landscape Character Assessment Guidance.

1.7 The level of assessment is considered to be appropriate to the scale and nature of the development and the level of information currently available on the outline proposals. At this stage, it is not the intention to provide a detailed assessment of all the potential landscape and visual impacts on local receptors. This will be undertaken when a detailed Site Layout is available. The primary purpose of this study is to identify potentially significant landscape and visual effects and make recommendations which can be incorporated into the site proposals to mitigate these impacts.

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SECTION 2; METHODOLOGY

2.1 The approach adopted in this study for assessing landscape sensitivity and capacity broadly follows recommendations in the latest edition of the GLVIA. It assumes from the outset that even though a landscape may be designated or protected, the landscape does not automatically have a high landscape and visual sensitivity, especially where there may be specific local factors which would mitigate potential landscape and visual effects. Furthermore, even some sensitive areas may not automatically have no or low capacity to accept change.

2.2 It should be noted that the identification of areas of high sensitivity does not necessarily mean that all development would be unacceptable. Similarly, areas of low or medium sensitivity will not necessarily be able to accommodate any or all types of development. Local conditions, site and development detailed design, mitigation and cumulative impacts must also be considered.

2.3 The 3.0 km study area was largely defined by the extent of land within which the site is theoretically visible and would potentially experience significant landscape and visual effects, i.e. the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV). Where appropriate, the study area was extended beyond the ZTV to show the wider landscape/urban context and connectivity.

2.4 For the purpose of this assessment, the ZTV was initially established by a desk study and then visualized using a computer generated ZTV map using digitized OS data. The ZTV plan (Figure 9) illustrates the extent of land which theoretically has the potential to be effected by views of the proposed development. The model is a ‘worse case’ situation. It does not illustrate the extent of view or the reducing effects of perspective/distance back-grounding, context or other mitigating effects. The model used for this study shows the visual effects of development across every part of the site, (assuming a building height of 7.5 m) viewed at a height of 1.7 m from the ground. The model shows the screening effect of existing buildings, woodland and hedgerows. The ZTV was used as a working tool to support the visual analysis and verified on site with a visual/photographic survey. Field-work was undertaken in November, 2015 Page 4

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SECTION 3; APPRAISAL CRITERIA

Landscape appraisal

3.1 An assessment of landscape effects deals with the effects of change and development on landscape as a resource. This includes how the proposal will affect the elements that make up the landscape, the aesthetic and perceptual aspects of the landscape and its distinctive character.

3.2 An appraisal of landscape sensitivity is made by combining professional judgements in relation to the susceptibility of the landscape to change (particular to the proposed development type) and the value of the landscape receptor.

3.3 Professional judgments are made in relation to the susceptibility of the landscape receptor to change. This is the capacity of a landscape receptor to accommodate the proposed development without undue consequences for the maintenance of the baseline situation and/or the achievement of landscape planning policies and strategies (whether the landscape receptor contributes to the overall character of a particular landscape type/area, or an individual element/feature or designation within it).

3.4 Judgments in relation to the value of the landscape receptor should reflect;

• The value of the landscape character types or areas that may be affected based on a review of any designations at both national and local levels. Where there are no designations, judgements are based on criteria that can be used to establish landscape value.

• The value of individual contributors to landscape character, especially key characteristics, which may include individual elements of the landscape, particular landscape features, notable aesthetic, perceptual or experiential qualities, and combinations of these contributors.

3.5 The appraisal of value is based on professional judgement and includes consideration of factors such as; Page 5

• 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 that appeal primarily to the senses (primarily but not wholly the visual senses).

• Rarity: The presence of rare elements or features in the landscape or the presence of a rare Landscape Character Type.

• Representativeness: Whether the landscape contains a particular character and/or features or elements which are considered particularly important examples.

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• Conservation Interests: The presence of features of wildlife, earth science or archaeological or historic and cultural interest can add to the value of the 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, notably wildness and / or tranquility.

• Cultural Associations: Some landscapes are associated with particular people, such as artists or writers, or events in history that contribute to perceptions of the natural beauty of the area.

3.6 The resulting landscape sensitivity is described using a four-point scale (very high, high, medium or low) based upon the criteria set out in Table 1.

Table 1 – Summary of landscape sensitivity

Landscape Description sensitivity Very high Typically highly valued landscape of international or national landscape or conservation importance such as National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in pristine condition with no/few detracting elements. Key characteristics of landscape are very vulnerable to change and are unable to accommodate development without significant character change; thresholds for significant change are very low.

High Typically valued landscape of national or regional landscape or conservation importance such as some Special Landscape Areas, or areas within National Parks or AONBs with minor detracting factors. Key characteristics of landscape are vulnerable to change and development can be absorbed only in limited situations without significant character change; thresholds for significant change are low.

Medium Typically valued landscape of regional or local landscape or conservation/amenity importance such as some Special Landscape Areas and Areas of Local Landscape Importance, areas within National Parks or AONBs with significant detracting factors or local areas with value expressed in local publications. Page 6 Key characteristics of landscape are susceptible to change but with some ability to absorb development in some situations without significant character change; thresholds for significant change are intermediate.

Low Typically undesignated landscape with some local community importance such as unmanaged/fragmented green space, highway corridors and remnant farmland. Key characteristics of landscape are resilient to change and are able to absorb development in many situations without significant character change; thresholds for significant change are high.

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Visual appraisal

3.7 An appraisal of visual effects deals with the effects of change on the views available to people and their visual amenity. This includes how the surroundings of individuals or groups of people may specifically be affected by changes in the content and character of views as a result of the change or loss of existing elements of the landscape and/or the introduction of new elements.

3.8 A visual receptor is a special interest or viewer group that will experience an effect. This includes residents, recreational users, visitors and groups of viewers present at or passing through the viewpoint.

3.9 An appraisal of visual sensitivity is made by combining professional judgements in relation to the susceptibility of the visual receptor to change (particular to the proposed development type) and the value of the visual receptor. In visual appraisal some visual receptors are considered more sensitive than others. Greater weight is given to the visual effects upon public viewpoints than upon private properties. Views from rooms that are used during daylight hours, such as sitting rooms, are also deemed to be more important than views from secondary rooms such as bedrooms.

3.10 Professional judgements are made in relation to the susceptibility of the visual receptor to change. This is mainly a function of;

• The occupation or activity of people experiencing the view at particular locations.

• The extent to which their attention or interest may therefore be focused on the views and the visual amenity they experience at particular locations.

• The contents/context of the existing view in relation to the type of development proposed. e.g. a view overlooking a moorland or other natural area devoid of any man-made features or intrusions has a higher susceptibility to change.

3.11 Judgements in relation to the value of the visual receptor should reflect;

Page 7 • Recognition of the value attached to particular views i.e. in relation to heritage assets or planning designations.

• Indicators of the value attached to views by visitors, i.e. the appearance of them in tourist maps, provision of facilities for the enjoyment of views or references to specific views in literature or art.

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Table 2 – Sensitivity of visual receptors

Sensitivity of Criteria visual receptor Very High People at tourist attractions with a specific focus on the view, visitors to historic features/estates (where the setting is important to the appreciation and understanding of the property and history).

High Residents with direct open views of the site. Users of long distance trails (e.g. Pennine Way) and public rights of way, caravan parks and campsites, tourist attractions with opportunities for views of the landscape (but not specifically requiring an appreciation of the landscape), slow paced recreational activities which derive part of their pleasure from an appreciation of setting (e.g. golf).

Medium Residents with partial/oblique views of the site. Users of public rights of way within urban /urban fringe or degraded landscapes Users of minor road users and commercial railways travelling through or past the affected landscape, recreational activities not specifically focused on the landscape (e.g. football), hotel users. Low People at their place of work (e.g. offices), shoppers, users of trunk/major roads. Industrial and commercial activities, military facilities.

Appraisal of effects 3.12 The magnitude of change (or nature of effect) arising from the proposed development at any particular viewpoint is described as high, medium, low or negligible based on the interpretation of a combination of largely quantifiable parameters, as follows;

• Degree of physical change in landscape features and landscape character. • Duration of effect. • Distance of the viewpoint from the development. • Extent of the development in the view. • Angle of view in relation to main receptor activity. • Proportion of the field of view occupied by the development. • Background to the development. • Extent of other built development visible, particularly vertical elements. Page 8

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Table 3 – Definition of magnitude of change

High The proposed development would be extremely damaging to landscape character and would; ● Result in a complete change to character, or introduce features, which are dominant, intrusive or totally uncharacteristic. ● Be at complete variance with landform, scale and settlement pattern. ● Result in the total loss or alteration of characteristic features and elements, and/or reduce or remove their setting. ● Be incapable of mitigation.

Medium The proposed development would damage landscape character and would;  Result in a clearly identifiable or prominent change to character, although may not necessarily considered to be substantially uncharacteristic.  Be out of scale, or at odds with the landform, scale and settlement pattern.  Result in partial loss or alteration of characteristic features and elements, and/or reduce or remove their setting.  Be incapable of full mitigation and/or mitigation may conflict with local guidelines.   Low The proposed development would have a minor, but discernible change to landscape character and would;  Result in a discernible change to character, although not necessarily uncharacteristic when set within the attributes of the receiving landscape.  Slight change in landform, scale and settlement pattern.  Result in the minor loss or alteration of characteristic features and elements, and/or reduce their setting.  Cannot be entirely mitigated, due to the nature of the proposals or character or not fulfil local guidelines.

Negligible The proposed development will have no noticeable effect due to;  The development being barely discernible as a change in character. Page 9  It complements the scale, landform and settlement pattern.  It incorporates measures for mitigation/enhancement that enable the proposals to blend with the surrounding area, meeting local guidelines for the area.

3.13 The significance of the effect on landscape amenity is determined by combining the landscape sensitivity with the magnitude of change for each viewpoint, in accordance with the matrix and descriptions shown in Table 4.

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Table 4 – Criteria for assessing landscape and visual impact.

Magnitude Negligible Low Medium High of effect

Landscape sensitivity

Low Neutral Minor/Neutral Minor Moderate/Minor Medium Minor/Neutral Minor Moderate/Minor Moderate High Minor/Neutral Moderate/Minor Moderate Major/ Moderate Very high Minor/Neutral Moderate Major/ Major Moderate

Table 5 – Significance of criteria for landscape and visual impact.

Level of significance Definition Neutral The proposed scheme would affect no landscape or visual receptors. Minor/Neutral The proposed scheme is largely appropriate in its context and would have very little effect on its surroundings and affect very few receptors.

Minor The proposed scheme would cause a minimal change in the landscape and would affect very few receptors.

Moderate/Minor The proposed scheme would have a slight change on the landscape and would affect few receptors

Moderate The proposed scheme would have a noticeable effect on the landscape and would affect several receptors, therefore changing the character of a view.

Major/Moderate The proposed scheme would have a very noticeable effect on the landscape and would affect several or Page 10 many receptors, therefore changing the character of a view.

Major The proposed scheme would change the character and appearance of the landscape, either for a long period or permanently. It would affect many receptors and would therefore greatly alter the character of a view.

Not significant Potentially significant Significant

3.14 Where an effect falls within a split category, professional judgement is used to evaluate which of the two categories most closely fits. While the matrices are helpful to moderate opinion, professional judgement may overrule a matrix in specific cases where this can clearly be justified.

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3.15 The resulting significance values for appraisal of the effects upon both landscape and visual amenity are defined in Table 5.

3.16 This is combined with an appraisal of whether or not each effect is positive or negative or neutral. This is somewhat subjective and relies largely upon professional judgement, but can be broadly defined as follows:

• Beneficial - the effect would result in an improvement in the baseline situation

• Neutral - the effect would result in there being little or no change in the baseline situation, or a change that is neither negative nor positive

• Adverse - the effect would result in a deterioration of the baseline situation

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SECTION 4; BASELINE CONDITIONS

The study area

4.1 The study area covers all of Prudhoe and Mickley Square and the villages of Horsley, Ovingham, Ovington and Wylam. It includes the eastern part of and the western fringe of Crawcrook. The northern limit is defined by the A69, to the north of Horsley. The study area extends south to Lead Road and includes the small settlements of Coalburns, Leadgate and Hedley on the Hill.

Planning context

4.2 The Consolidated Planning Policy Framework sets out the relevant planning policy documents, both statutory and non-statutory, for Northumberland.

4.3 Key planning policy and legislation considerations, relevant to this study are contained in the following documents;

 Northumberland Planning Policy Framework.  Core strategy (adopted October 2007).  Tynedale Local Plan – schedule of adopted policies (effective from October 2007)

Landscape designations

4.4 The site lies within designated Green Belt and subject to core strategy policy GD3, and saved local plan policies NE7, NE8, NE9, NE13 and NE 14.

4.5 Within the 3.0 km study area there are 48 listed buildings or structures. The nearest properties are The Church of Our Lady and St. Cuthbert (approximately 369m distance), The Grange and West Grange (approximately 396m distance) and Prudhoes House (approximately 496m distance).

4.6 There are two Scheduled Monuments within 3.0 kilometers of the site. These are Prudhoe Castle (approximately 1.1 km distance) and the ditched Page 12 enclosure south of north view, Coalburns (approximately 2.2km distance).

4.7 The National Trust property of Cherryburn lies 1.9km to the west of the site. There are 3 local nature reserves and 4 sites of special scientific interest within the 3.0km study area. The nearest are Preistclose Wood LNR (1.2km distance) and the at Ovingham SSSI (1.5km distance)

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Landscape Character

4.8 The site is located on the boundary of National Character Areas 11, Tyne Gap and Hadrian’s Wall and 16, Durham Coalfield and Pennine Fringe. The study area is also affected by National Character area 14, Tyne and Wear Lowlands. The key characteristics in relation to these landscape character areas is described below:

Tyne Gap and Hadrian’s Wall

 Narrow, distinctive corridor running east–west, graduating from lowland to upland through a low-lying gap, separating the Borders Moors and Forests NCA in the north from the North Pennines NCA in the south.  Valleys underlain by sedimentary Carboniferous rocks comprising repetitive successions of tilted limestones, sandstones and shales, together with north-facing escarpments of Whin Sill, forming a cuesta landscape of east–west ridges. The Whin Sill, forms a cuesta landscape of east-west ridges.  The River Tyne and its tributaries within a valley of managed flood plains and mixed farmland. Source of potable water for conurbations further east and habitat for freshwater mussels, salmon and trout.  Well-wooded mosaic of deciduous, mixed and coniferous woodland, broadleaved woodland on steeper slopes lining the rivers and little tree cover in upland areas.  Fertile, lowland corridor of the river flood plain with flat, arable fields contrasting with larger-scale upper slopes of the valleys. Cattle and sheep graze large areas of rough pasture, divided by stone walls and fences in the west, merging to mixed farming in hedged fields in the east along the Tyne valley.  Higher elevations to the north with rough grazing on moorland, loughs, raised mire and rushy pastures confined within the Whin Sill outcrops and its associated grasslands and specialised flora.  Natural waterbodies (loughs) on the ridged plateau provide breeding and wintering areas for wildfowl (whooper swan, goldeneye and wigeon).  Country estates – Chesters, Haughton Castle, Nunwick Hall, Blenkinsopp Castle and Chipchase Castle – set within parklands of mature trees in the lower valley. Page 13  Extensive archaeology from Roman times: Hadrian’s Wall, forts, camps, and roads; other historic features include fortified castles, bastles and pele towers; lime kilns; and evidence of ridge and furrow.  Villages and towns strategically located along the River Tyne with sandstone buildings and original village centres, dispersed settlements in valley bottoms, with small, nucleated villages and buildings of Millstone Grit. Hamlets or isolated farmsteads on valley flanks.  Significant transport route with road and rail linking east and west across the Pennines along with the Hadrian’s Wall Path and Pennine Way National Trails and the National Cycle Routes, Hadrian’s Cycleway and the Pennine Cycleway.

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Durham Coalfield and Pennine Fringe

 A rolling upland landscape of broad, open ridges and valleys with a strong west–east grain.  A transitional landscape with pastoral farming on higher ground in the west giving way to arable and mixed farming in the valleys and to the east.  A landscape heavily influenced by the mining and steel industries, in particular to the north and east, with scattered mining and industrial settlements of terraced and estate housing occupying prominent sites linked by a network of main roads.  Open cast coal workings forming intrusive features in some areas, and restored open cast areas giving a manmade feel to parts of the landscape. Early restoration sites are often lacking in character, topography and natural and historic features, while later schemes are of more value for wildlife and amenity.  Numerous small plantations of conifers or mixed woodland, as blocks or shelterbelts, on hillsides; in places more extensive conifer woodlands on ridgetops and hillsides.  Wide, open, windswept ridges of regular, large fields bounded by drystone wall and fences and crossed by straight roads, with isolated farmsteads.  Broad valleys of arable and mixed farmland with low hedges, with hedgerow trees, strips of broadleaved woodland following rivers and streams, and conifer plantations on valley sides.  Narrow, steep-sided river valleys sheltering fragments of ancient woodland.  Scattered small country houses, set within parkland and well-wooded estates

Tyne and Wear Lowlands

 Undulating landform incised by the river valleys of the Tyne and the Wear and their tributaries.  Widespread urban and industrial development with a dense network of major road and rail links and the spreading conurbations of Tyneside in the north. Dispersed towns and villages further south.  Historic riverside cities of and Durham, strategically located at bridging points of the rivers Tyne and Wear. Page 14  Between settlements, wide stretches of agricultural land with large, regular, arable fields bordered by hedgerows with few hedgerow trees, often with large farmsteads and urban fringe pasture land with pony and cattle grazing.  Strong legacy of mining, much restored to agriculture, forestry, industry, housing and amenity uses such as country parks, linking urban areas with countryside and coast by transforming wagonways to cycle routes and footpaths.  Industrial prosperity reflected in the large number of 18th- and 19th- century country houses, set within parkland in the vicinity of major settlements.  Mixed woodland estates and plantations on restored spoil heaps provide woodland cover in some areas, although sparse elsewhere.  Oak or oak/birch broadleaved woodland, a characteristic feature on steep sides of narrow river valleys, with some river flood plains holding pockets of fen, reedbed and species-rich grasslands.

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 Important relic of lowland heath survives at Waldridge Fell, one of few remaining areas of common land.  Small area of coastline between Whitley Bay and South Shields consisting of sand, rocky foreshore habitats and maritime cliffs, with historic landmarks such as St Mary’s lighthouse and Tynemouth Priory.  Heavily modified, Tynemouth estuary supports regionally important numbers of wintering waterbirds and breeding shelduck and North Shields is a busy port terminus for sea ferries to Norway and Denmark.  Part of North Tyneside coast supports seabirds: purple sandpiper, ruddy turnstone and breeding little tern.  Long history of settlement, mining and industry evidenced through historic buildings and settlement patterns which form a core part of today’s landscape.  Important tourist attractions include Durham, Newcastle upon Tyne, Whitley Bay and two World Heritage Sites – Hadrian’s Wall and Durham Castle and Cathedral

4.9 At the County level, the site is covered by the Northumberland Landscape Character Assessment (August 2010). The site falls on the boundary of areas 31e and 43b. The key characteristics are described in the tables on pages 16-17.

4.10 Northumberland County Council has previously commissioned a Key Land Use Impact Study (2010). It examines a number of land use planning issues affecting the County, including:

• The landscape sensitivity to development of areas around key settlements; • The landscape qualities of the proposed extension of the Green Belt around Morpeth; • The sensitivity of the landscape to waste, mineral extraction, and renewable energy developments; and • The provision of local landscape designations.

4.11 Within this document, Part A provides a comprehensive analysis of 26 selected settlements within Northumberland, including Prudhoe, in order to assess the relative sensitivities of their landscape surroundings. The assessment aims to assist in guiding future development to the most appropriate locations, based on a review of the character of each settlement, Page 15 boundaries and sensitivities within the surrounding landscape.

4.12 Each settlement was analysed and assessed based on a combination of desk study and fieldwork considering:

• Settlement character and landscape sensitivity; and • Guidelines on landscape sensitivity to potential development.

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4.13 The following extract is reproduced from the Key Land Use Impact Study (2010) undertaken by Land Use Consultants for Northumberland County Council.

Landscape Context

• Prudhoe is one of a series of settlements along the River Tyne and is located within Stocksfield to Prudhoe (character area 31e, Glacial trough valley sides LCT). Prudhoe is distinct from the other settlements in its setting above a steep escarpment separating the valley floor from the valley side and hill slopes of Mickley Moor.

• Prudhoe Castle occupies a prominent location at the top of this escarpment, emerging from the wooded slopes to form a landmark. Prudhoe is divided by this escarpment: the residential parts of the settlement extend up the hill slope above; and industrial areas are located on the flat valley floor below. The Spetchells, chalk spoil heaps left from a former fertiliser factory, form prominent ridges along the south side of the Tyne River, and are valued for the habitat they have created for chalk- loving vegetation.

Existing Settlement Character

• Prudhoe is a medium-sized town that grew around the castle, which dates to the 12th century and has had an active history.

Townscape setting

• The grain of the settlement results from development along Front Street and other main streets that run east to west along the contours in the western part of the settlement, but streets continue to run east to west in the eastern part of the settlement, and are therefore running down the ridge of Mickley Moor.

• The A695 bypasses the main town of Prudhoe by passing along the foot of the escarpment. This road also forms the main access to the industrial parts of Prudhoe. At the north-east corner of Prudhoe, new allotments have been constructed, to replace those in the centre of town, where the land has been taken for redevelopment. Page 18

• Modern developments have extended the settlement to the east to meet the golf course and south up the hillside, with the school on the ridge.

Approaches and views

• On approach from the Tyne Valley from the north, east or west, Prudhoe is seen set part way up the valley side, above a distinctive band of woodland, out of which stands Prudhoe Castle. On approach from the south, from the minor road over Mickley Moor, Prudhoe is laid out below the road, with the panorama of the Tyne Valley beyond. • Due to the spread of the settlement up the hillside, views extend across the Tyne Valley northwards, and to the east and west.

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Other distinctive features

• The main characteristic of Prudhoe is its relationship with the steep scarp of the valley site, on which Prudhoe Castle sits. Landmarks include the castle and the Spetchells.

Visual open space

• There are open spaces in many parts of the settlement, although the main areas of open space are at the edges in the form of playing fields, golf courses and allotments, as well as the wooded escarpment.

Landscape Sensitivity

Existing settlement boundaries

• To the north, the settlement is bounded by the River Tyne and the railway. To the east, the settlement currently extends to Prudhoe Golf Course and Priest Close Wood Nature Reserve, beyond which lies the wooded Stanley Burn valley. These form strong boundary features to the settlement.

• To the south, Moor Road forms a boundary to the hospital site, with recent development on the south side further up the hill. Highfield Lane forms a boundary to the south-west of the settlement, with the land immediately to the south of it forming the horizon of the hill in many views from the north.

• To the west, rear garden boundaries form the settlement edge north of Highfield Lane, with the A695 forming a stronger boundary to the north- west, running down to the river.

Sensitivity of landscape to change

• To the north, industrial development extends along the foot of the escarpment. This area is of low landscape sensitivity due to its developed nature and low-lying situation. However, there is limited scope for development in this area, restricted to the space between the escarpment and the A695. Page 19

• There is no scope for expansion to the east due to the strength of the existing settlement edge. The site of the former hospital to the south may have potential for redevelopment. There are recent developments on the south side of Moor Road further up the hill from the hospital site. This area is considered to be of moderate sensitivity, and may be able to accommodate carefully sited development on an appropriate scale, with regard to landscape context and views.

• The area to the south of Highfield Lane is of higher landscape sensitivity, as it forms the horizon to the settlement. There is an area of lower sensitivity to the west, on lower-lying ground south of West Road.

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• Prudhoe has a range of modern building designs seen around its periphery. However, this does not mean that it is appropriate to construct ‘off the shelf’ style housing. New buildings around Prudhoe should seek to adopt materials and detailing features characteristic of some of the older buildings of the town to provide a sense of belonging to Prudhoe. The layout of new development should also consider the existing character of Prudhoe and the approaches taken to gradients within the town.

Guidelines on Landscape Sensitivity to New Development

Guidelines

• The following guidelines indicate relative sensitivity, and should be applied when considering proposals for new development. Areas referred to are shown with a corresponding number on the indicative settlement illustration (Figure A2.22). • Seek to retain open hill top of Mickley Moor above Highfield Lane. • The lower hill slopes to the west, near West Road, and more limited areas to the south along Moor Road, are of lower landscape sensitivity. • Areas of lower sensitivity below the escarpment may accommodate infill development on an appropriate scale. • Seek to retain open space functions of the eastern settlement boundary.

Recommendations

• The following recommendations indicate mitigation measures which would reduce the impact of new development in the locations indicated above: • Review architectural styles extant in the town, and refer to relevant design guides. • Review existing massing patterns (terracing, detached, positions of houses within plots). • Review and maximise use of existing building materials, particularly for external features and house fronts. • Strengthen boundaries of settlement with woodland belts and trees. • Retain existing mature trees and field boundaries, follow grain of settlement through new development. • Review styles and placing of other buildings such as garages, and Page 20 provide sufficient open space with trees to reflect other areas of Prudhoe

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Site and surrounding area

4.14 The site comprises 6 fields of pasture and arable land located on the southern edge of Prudhoe. The northern site boundary adjoins Highfield Lane which in this location marks the edge of urban development around the southern fringe of Prudhoe. The eastern boundary extends around Highfield House Farm and adjoins land currently subject to a planning application for residential development. The eastern field adjoins the boundary of Prudhoe Community High School and the Fuse Media building. The remaining site is bounded by open farmland.

4.15 There are established and developing residential areas to the north, east and south-east of the site. The ‘Humbles Wood’ housing development is currently under construction, north of South Park. Highfield Park is located on the north side of Highfield Lane, opposite the development site. This recreation area is part of a wider Strategic Green Space which includes Highfield Cemetery, school playing fields and woodland.

4.16 There are a several public footpaths which border and cross the site from Highfield Lane and Moor Road. These link to open countryside to the south and to the wider network of access routes which extend along the Tyne Valley. These footpaths offer panoramic views north, across the Tyne Valley and west towards High Mickley. At the highest point on the site, on the southern boundary, these footpaths offer extensive views south, across woodland and open countryside between Prudhoe and Lead Road which follows a clearly defined ridge along the southern horizon.

4.17 The site is open farmland, predominantly enclosed with stock proof fencing. The site has been intensively farmed for a long period and appears to be of low biodiversity with relatively few features of landscape importance. The only building on the proposed development site is a brick built, barn style, storage building with fenced enclosure, located next to the northern site boundary. The building is connected to a pole mounted overhead electricity cable.

4.18 The key characteristics of the site are described as follows;

• Key Characteristics; Farmland within urban fringe, adjacent to urban development and close to local facilities, bounded in part by a local Page 21 access road and accessed by local footpaths (part of extensive network of countryside routes).

• Local Distinctiveness; Open farmland.

• Views; High intervisibility with land between the A69 and the River Tyne ie the north slope of the Tyne Valley. Potential visibility with open countryside to the south of the site from public footpaths, minor roads and settlements. Panoramic views available from public footpaths on and adjacent to the site.

• Functionalities; Green Belt. Agricultural land. Limited biodiversity. Relatively few notable landscape elements. Field boundaries contribute to established landscape pattern. No buildings or historical or architectural importance.

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Historic development

4.19 Historic maps from the nineteenth and twentieth century show that the existing field patterns on the site have remained largely unchanged for over 150 years. The most notable change in the locality is the development of residential and other urban/greenspace around Highfield. Northumberland County Council Historic Landscape character map defines the site as follows;

• Irregular fields, possible example of early enclosure, 17th–mid 18th century.

4.20 Analysis of historic maps shows that the settlement pattern of Prudhoe developed randomly around local industrial sites and then out from the town centre, established at the intersection of historic routes. Later industrial development shifted the urban pattern towards the river followed by infill residential development between the main road corridors and then south around Moor Road.

4.21 The current urban pattern has been shaped and constrained by the main historic routes through the town, local topography, the River Tyne and surrounding settlements. Vehicle circulation and access is sometimes constrained by these natural features which in places has resulted in poor connectivity between different parts of the town. This is compensated by a network of footpaths within and around the town which provides good access to surrounding countryside.

Topography

4.22 The site is located on the north-west facing slope of the ridge that forms the southern edge of Prudhoe, above the lower escarpment. Then site generally slopes north-east to south-west. The highest point is at approximately 189m AOD in the south–west corner of the site. The lowest point is at approximately 148m AOD, on the eastern boundary.

Vegetation

4.23 The site is a mix of arable and pasture land. There are established, intact, hawthorn hedges along the western site boundary and around the eastern field. There are few hedgerow trees except along part of the eastern boundary. There are two mature field trees (ash) which are in poor Page 22 condition. A number of trees have been recently planted inside the site next to the hedge along Highfield Lane.

Access and movement

4.24 Public footpath 538/018 crosses the eastern part of the site to join public footpath 538/061, which runs along the outside of the southern site boundary. Another public footpath links this route with Highfield Lane, crossing through the western fields of the site. These routes connect to the wider footpath network which provides access to surrounding countryside. There is no public vehicular access on the site.

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Hadrian’s Wall

4.25 Hadrian’s Wall runs east west to the north of the site, and in this section follows the B6318. The Roman Fort of Vindobala at Rudchester lies some 5.4km from the site and as such lies outside the 3km study area. Any new development would not be perceived at this distance and so there would be no effect on the setting or associated landscape character of Hadrian’s Wall, either at key attractions or when travelling along the line of the wall.

Visual context

4.26 The ZTV model (Figure 9) illustrates the potential visibility of development across the whole site. It clearly demonstrates that there are potential views from the northern slopes of the Tyne Valley (between the A69 and Prudhoe) and also from extensive areas to the south of Prudhoe, from high land. It also shows an area of potential visibility to the west of Prudhoe, around High Mickley.

4.27 Site survey and fieldwork has confirmed these potential views. It is clear however, that the most extensive views of site, from high land directly opposite, on the northern slopes of the Tyne Valley, are also effected by general views of urban development around Prudhoe. In this urban context, the proposed development does not significantly change the character and quality of existing views. The main visual effect is the alteration to the settlement pattern, which would appear more uniform and rounded across the visible ridgeline. From these locations, there could also be changes to the skyline across the southern part of the site, where built development might extend beyond the visible ridge. The extent of the site visible from land on the northern slopes of the Tyne Valley depends on the angle of view and ground level. Viewpoints from the lower slopes, or from areas 2-3km to the east or west, will experience less change in the overall settlement pattern where the development would appear as infill, within the boundary of the existing urban settlement.

4.28 Viewpoints from land south of Prudhoe offer high quality panoramic views towards and the northern Tyne Valley. From many locations, Prudhoe is screened by ridgelines and blocks of woodland. Some urban areas to the north of South Park (around the southern fringe of Prudhoe) are Page 23 visible as filtered views through surrounding woodland, however, the town appears generally well contained within the valley and doesn’t encroach into surrounding open countryside.

4.29 Any potential views of the proposed development from this land are likely to significantly affect the nature and quality of existing views, especially where the development may be partially visible above the ridge which screens the majority of the town. Where this might occur, Prudhoe would be perceived as extending into the southern valley which could potentially impact on the wider landscape and visual character.

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SECTION 5; POTENTIAL EFFECTS

5.1 The nature and magnitude of landscape and visual impacts will change during the phases of the development, through construction, at completion and after establishment of any landscape proposals i.e. the long term residual impacts. Some types of development may generate impacts which are severe but short term, i.e. during construction, whereas others may have minor impacts with residual effects which may be of a permanent nature. In addition, some impacts could be significantly mitigated by landscape and other measures which will be of benefit in the longer term. This assessment will consider all potential effects from construction to completion and long term residual impacts.

5.2 The following aspects of the proposed development are of particular relevance in the consideration of potential landscape and visual effects;

• ground formation works.

• removal of tree/scrub vegetation in association with construction works.

• visibility of the construction works.

• the permanent existence of new roads and built development on the site.

• visibility of new roads and built development.

• visibility of artificial lighting.

• loss of existing landscape features.

• changes in existing landscape character and visual amenity.

• changes in access which may affect local amenity.

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SECTION 6; LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL APPRAISAL

6.1 The following appraisal is based on the outline proposals for a residential development on the proposed site off Highfield Lane. The assessment has been made without the benefit of detailed Ecological and Tree surveys. A full Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment will be required when the detailed scheme proposals are available.

6.2 This section identifies the key landscape and visual receptors. It then provides an appraisal of the potential landscape and visual effects arising from the development and makes recommendations for mitigation which may avoid, remediate or reduce those effects.

Landscape appraisal

6.3 The proposed development is likely to bring about changes in the landscape due to alterations in land use, land form, settlement and landscape pattern, land cover and the potential loss of existing landscape features. These changes could potentially affect landscape character and local visual amenity.

6.4 The following landscape receptors have the potential to be affected by the development proposals;

• Landscape receptor 1: Landscape character areas.

• Landscape receptor 2: The site and immediate surroundings

• Landscape receptor 3: The Green Belt

• Landscape receptor 4: Prudhoe

6.5 The following landscape assessment is based upon existing landscape characterisation work covering the site and the wider study area and additional assessment undertaken as part of this report. Together, this provides a good level of baseline information and provides the basis for the judgements used in this study on the sensitivity of the landscape character. Page 25

Key considerations;

• The current undeveloped nature of the site. • The loss of Green Belt around the edge of an existing settlement. • Existing public access and available views from and towards the site. • Visual effects on properties at Highfield and adjoining urban green space /school playing fields. • The presence of existing hedges and off-site boundary trees. • Potential high visibility with open countryside and other settlements.

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The main sensitivities are;

• The impact on the Green Belt. • Potential impacts on landscape character. • Potential impacts on views within the Tyne Valley • Potential change in landscape and settlement pattern. • Loss of public access to open countryside.

Landscape receptor 1: Landscape character areas

6.6 The site is located on the boundary of National Character Areas 11, Tyne Gap and Hadrian’s Wall and 16, Durham Coalfield and Pennine Fringe. The study area is also affected by National Character area 14, Tyne and Wear Lowlands. At County level, the site is covered by the Northumberland Landscape Character Assessment (August 2010). The site falls on the boundary of areas 31e and 43b.

6.7 Development of this site will bring about a change in land use from open pasture and arable to urban but these changes will not introduce new elements in the landscape which are not already found locally in the national character areas. The site is not a designated landscape of special value and contains relatively few landscape features of value except hedgerows and occasional hedgerow trees. There are potential views of the development from within the Tyne Valley and from land to the south of Prudhoe.

6.8 The site would be most visible from land within Character Area 11, however, the visual effects on this National Character Area are substantially mitigated by the urban context where the main change would be to the settlement pattern and potentially, a narrow section of visible skyline, where built development may be viewed above the existing ridge.

6.9 The site is potentially less visible from within National Character Area 16 but the effects could be more significant if the urban edge of Prudhoe is perceived to extend into predominantly open countryside beyond the ridgeline which currently screens views of the town from land to the south.

6.10 There are no potential significant views of the development site from National Character Area 14. Page 26

6.11 Similar effects and impacts are likely to be experienced on land within the County landscape character areas, however, given the scale of these areas (compared to the National Character Areas) the level of impact resulting from significant visual effects is likely to be greater. The range of effects and impacts within the County Character Areas will vary considerably depending on potential visibility of the site and the nature of existing views which may already substantially urban in character. Where there is strong variation within a Character Area, a range of potential values is given.

6.12 The landscape sensitivity of this part of National Character Area 11 is considered to be high. The potential magnitude of change in the landscape due to the development is considered to be low. The resultant landscape impact will be minor.

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6.13 The landscape sensitivity of this part of National Character Area 16 is considered to be high. The potential magnitude of change in the landscape due to the development is considered to be medium. The resultant landscape impact will be moderate.

6.14 The landscape sensitivity of this part of National Character Area 14 is considered to be medium. The potential magnitude of change in the landscape due to the development is considered to be negligible. The resultant landscape impact will be neutral.

6.15 The landscape sensitivity of this part of the County Character Area 31e is considered to be low/medium. The potential magnitude of change in the landscape due to the development is considered to be low/medium. The resultant landscape impact will be minor-moderate.

6.16 The landscape sensitivity of this part of the County Character Area 43b is considered to be medium. The potential magnitude of change in the landscape due to the development is considered to be medium. The resultant landscape impact will be moderate.

Landscape receptor 2: The site and immediate surroundings

6.17 The site is open farmland on the edge of an urban settlement within the Green Belt. The landscape character is influenced by surrounding land use, topography and views of existing landscape/urban features. Its visual character is also influenced by the landscape/urban elements within and around the site. The development site is urban fringe. There is some visibility with adjoining urban land and also high quality panoramic views from public footpaths which cross the site.

6.18 There would be some visual effects arising from the change in views from a small number of properties on Moor Road and from surrounding recreation land, schools and Highfield Road. There may be some landscape amenity effects arising from the loss of some boundary vegetation to form an access road and also increased disturbance from construction and residential traffic accessing the site.

6.19 Overall, the sensitivity of the site and immediate surroundings (to a Page 27 residential development) is considered to be medium. The potential magnitude of effect on the landscape due to the development is considered to be high. The resultant landscape impact would be moderate.

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Landscape receptor 3: The Green Belt

6.20 Although currently designated as Green Wedge, this does not automatically infer that Green Belt land has any special landscape and visual qualities or that the Green Belt itself defines a specific landscape character area with clearly identifiable boundaries. The Green Belt around the southern fringe of Prudhoe covers a broad area of farmland, open countryside and also urban fringe. It covers a range of landscape types which can be described as being either open or enclosed. In this location, the Green Belt does not perform a role of maintaining physical separation between local settlements or to maintain traditional settlement pattern. While the loss of this area the Green Belt would result in a further extension of urban development into open land, it would not result in fragmentation of the Green Belt which might weaken its role in controlling future development.

6.21 Overall, the landscape sensitivity of the character of the Green Belt in this location (to residential development) is considered to be medium. The potential magnitude of effect on the wider Green Belt is considered to be low. The resultant landscape impact would be minor.

Landscape receptor 4: Prudhoe

6.22 The wider urban area around the southern fringe of Prudhoe would not be significantly affected by the proposals due to the limited intervisibility of the site with adjoining urban land. The main visual effects are described in paragraphs 6.17 and 6.18 above. There may be the loss of local amenity through potential changes in public access or loss views from these routes.

6.23 The sensitivity of this part of Prudhoe to residential development in a style and form compatible to the local vernacular (traditional or contemporary) is considered to be medium. The magnitude of effect on the wider urban landscape is considered to be low. The resultant landscape impact would be minor.

Visual appraisal

6.24 The appraisal of visual effects was undertaken on the basis of viewpoint analysis recommended in best practice guidance. A number of viewpoints Page 28 were identified to represent the range of effects likely to be experienced of the development. All photography and survey work was undertaken from publicly accessible road and footpaths.

6.25 The photographic viewpoints were selected to represent a range of views and viewer types. Where applicable, these cover a variety of different character types, are in different directions from the site and are at varying elevations. The viewpoints are located at a range of distances from the development to illustrate the varying magnitude of visual impacts.

6.26 The viewpoints were used as the basis for determining the effects on visual receptors within the ZTV identified in the study area.

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6.27 In parallel to the viewpoint analysis the ZTV was used to identify potential visual receptors (e.g. residents, users of public rights of way, visitors to tourist attractions etc.) of the proposed development. A filtering process was undertaken to identify which of the visual receptors within the study area had the potential to experience significant visual effects. The significance of effects on visual receptors is determined by cross referencing the sensitivity of the receptor with the magnitude of impact.

6.28 The viewpoints fall broadly into three groups;

• Representative Viewpoints; those viewpoints within the general area of the site.

• Specific Viewpoints; key viewpoints that are specific visitor attractions or destinations which are noteworthy as a result of their visual and/or recreational amenity such as those within designated areas or viewpoints with particular cultural associations.

• Illustrative viewpoints; chosen to demonstrate a particular effect or specific issues, for example, restricted visibility at certain locations.

6.29 The following residents and local people are potential receptors of visual effects.

• Residents in properties off Moor Road

• Residents using Highfield Park and other local facilities

• Travelers using local roads within the area of potential visibility

• Residents in settlements/farmhouses/properties located within the area of potential visibility

• Walkers using public footpaths within the area of potential visibility

• Visitors to local attractions and on scenic routes within the area of potential visibility Page 29 • People at work on sites within the area of potential visibility

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SECTION 7; MITIGATION

7.1 This assessment has identified a number of landscape and visual effects arising from development of the site which have the potential to be mitigated through avoidance, reduction or remediation. The following recommendations are made in relation to the outline proposals and site layout plan and illustrated on Figure 12.

• Substantial woodland screen belts shall be established around the periphery of the site to prevent visual encroachment into areas south of Prudhoe and to define the limits of the settlement • Wildlife corridors shall be established to reinforce connections to Green Infrastructure • Existing public footpaths shall be safeguarded and additional links provided to local amenities and schools. • Some vistas from public footpaths shall be safeguarded using site layout and landscaping to maintain strategic views. • Site development shall minimise disturbance to existing topography. • Existing boundary landscape features such as trees and hedges should be retained and protected and any unavoidable losses remediated by replacement planting of similar extant and species. • Where possible the development should utilize sustainable drainage techniques to facilitate water/drainage management integrated with appropriate landscape and management. • A landscape management plan shall be agreed and implemented to ensure the delivery of the strategic landscape proposals and the long term conservation of habitats and landscape features on the site.

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SECTION 8; PHOTOGRAPHIC VIEWS

8.1 The location of each viewpoint is shown on Figure 12 and is represented by the photographs (viewpoints 1-12).

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SECTION 9; SUMMARY OF LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS

9.1 Tables 7 and Table 8 summarise the likely landscape and visual effects/impacts arising from the development. An appraisal has been made as to the likely residual effects of the development following the introduction and establishment of the recommended landscape mitigation proposals. Further study will be required to review the predicted landscape and visual effects on local receptors following issue of the Site Layout. The judgements made in this assessment are cognisant of the existing urban landscape character and the amenity value of the site.

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TABLE 7- Summary of landscape assessment

Assessment of the likely residual effects after landscape mitigation (15 yrs after completion)

Landscape Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude Significance Effect Sensitivity Magnitude Significance Effect

1: Landscape character areas

National level NCA 11 High Low Minor Adverse High Low Minor Adverse NCA 16 High Medium Moderate Adverse High Negligible Neutral NCA 14 Medium Negligible Neutral Medium Negligible Neutral

County level RCA 31e Low/Med Low/Med Minor Adverse Low/Med Low/Med Minor Adverse RCA 43b Medium Medium Moderate Adverse Medium Negligible Neutral

2: The site and immediate Medium High Moderate Adverse Medium Medium Moderate Adverse surroundings

3 : Green Belt Medium Low Minor Adverse Medium Low Minor Adverse

4 : Prudhoe Medium Low Minor Adverse Medium Low Minor Adverse

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TABLE 8- Summary of visual assessment Assessment of the likely residual effects after landscape mitigation (15 yrs after completion)

Visual Receptor Sensitivity Magnitude Significance Effect Sensitivity Magnitude Significance Effect

1: Properties on Moor Road, High Medium Moderate Adverse High Low Minor Adverse Prudhoe

2: Residents using recreational High Medium Moderate Adverse High Low Minor Adverse land/green space at Highfield 3: Properties/walkers at High Low Moderate Adverse High Low Minor Adverse Horsley

4: Properties/walkers at High Low Moderate Adverse High Low Minor Adverse Ovington

5: Properties/walkers at High High Medium Moderate Adverse High Negligible Minor Adverse Mickley 6: Properties/walkers at High Medium Moderate Adverse High Negligible Minor Adverse Mickley Moor 7: Travelers using Highfield High Medium Moderate Adverse High Low Minor Adverse Road/Edgewell House Road

8: Travelers using Gallowhill High Medium Moderate Adverse High Low Minor Adverse Lane/Horsley Road

9: Walkers using public High Medium Moderate Adverse High Negligible Minor Adverse footpaths on land south of the development site. 10:Walkers using public High Medium Moderate Adverse High Negligible Minor Adverse footpaths around South Park/Moor Road

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SECTION 10; CONCLUSION

11.1 The proposed development will change the existing land use from farmland to urban and this will bring about a moderate change in the local landscape character of the site and its immediate surroundings which will change from urban fringe to urban. These changes in the local landscape would not result in the loss of any important landscape features or the loss of features which could not be replaced or mitigated through landscape proposals introduced as part of the development proposals. The magnitude of change predicted in the local landscape is considered to be within the range typically expected for development proposals of this scale and nature within the urban fringe.

Although the site is currently designated as Green Belt, this does not automatically infer that Green Belt land has any special landscape and visual qualities or that the Green Belt itself defines a specific landscape character area with clearly identifiable boundaries. The Green Belt around the southern fringe of Prudhoe covers a broad area of farmland, open countryside and also urban fringe. It covers a range of landscape types which can be described as being either open or enclosed. In this location, the Green Belt does not perform a role of maintaining physical separation between local settlements or to maintain traditional settlement pattern. While the loss of this area the Green Belt would result in a further extension of urban development into open land, it would not result in fragmentation of the Green Belt which might weaken its role in controlling future development. Overall, the landscape sensitivity of the character of the Green Belt in this location (to residential development) is considered to be medium. The potential magnitude of effect on the wider Green Belt is considered to be low. The resultant landscape impact would be minor.

11.2 The potential impact of the landscape and visual effects on the wider landscape i.e. National/ County landscape character areas and the wider urban area around Prudhoe ranges from neutral to moderate. The highest potential impacts occur where the development would be viewed as an extension of the southern limit of Prudhoe above the existing ridgeline which currently screens the urban edge of Prudhoe from land to the south.

11.3 The ZTV for this site- Figure 9 (without mitigation) illustrates the area of land to the south of Prudhoe which may be visually affected by the proposed development. Figure 10 (ZTV with mitigation) clearly shows the benefit of a substantial screen belt around the site which could potentially mitigate almost all the visual effects predicted for land to the south to the development. Land to the north of the development also has the potential to be visually effected by the development proposals but potential impacts are considered to be lower due to the existing urban context and the limited impact on the wider landscape/settlement pattern.

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11.4 Landscape and visual effects are summarised in the predicted impact tables contained in this report.

11.5 Based on this visual analysis, a number of recommendations have been made for landscape infrastructure and other works to be incorporated into the development proposals. These include extensive screen belts around the site perimeter, the retention/ extension of existing footpath links, the introduction of sustainable drainage, and development of wildlife corridors to reinforce links to existing Green Infrastructure. Further landscape and visual assessment would be required to appraise potential landscape and visual impacts following development of the Landscape Strategy and Site Layout Plan.

PDP Associates Great Asby Appleby in Westmorland Cumbria CA16 6HD

Tel. 017683 54130

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APPENDIX

FIGURE 1. SITE LOCATION FIGURE 2. TOPOGRAPHY FIGURE 3. NATIONAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS FIGURE 4. REGIONAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS FIGURE 5. LANDSCAPE/SETTLEMENT PATTERN FIGURE 6. HISTORICAL GROWTH PATTERN FIGURE 7. CONNECTIVITY FIGURE 8. VISUAL ANALYSIS FIGURE 9. ZONE OF THEORETICAL INTERVISIBILIY (MAP A) FIGURE 10. ZONE OF THEORETICAL INTERVISIBILTY (MAP B) FIGURE 11. PHOTOGRAPHIC LOCATIONS FIGURE 12. LANDSCAPE GUIDELINES

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