Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government A487 New Environmental Statement - Volume 3: Appendix 8.2

Visual Assessment Tables

Final Issue | September 2017 Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government A487 New Dyfi Bridge

Visual Assessment Table - Construction Key Dist. = Distance to nearest part of the Scheme Receptor category = [R] – Representative, [S] – Specific, [I] – Illustrative Grid Ref = Accurate grid reference for the viewpoint Sensitivity = (High, Moderate, Low) Refer to criteria tables in Chapter 8 Nature of Change = Magnitude (Major, Moderate, Minor, Negligible, No Change), Permanent/Temporary (short-term: 5yrs, medium term: 5-15 yrs, long term: >15yrs), Reversible/ Irreversible. Refer to criteria tables in Chapter 8

N.B. For the construction phase in accordance GLVIA3 para 4.21, inbuilt standard construction mitigation measures have been developed as part of the iterative design and accounted for in the assessment process. These are described at paragraph 8.5.6 of Chapter 8 in Volume 1 of the ES. Due to the short-term and temporary nature of the construction effects identified, it is not considered feasible to include any (secondary) mitigation to further reduce the construction phase effects.

Table 1 Assessment of visual effects arising from the construction phase View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at point Represented During Construction Winter (receptor ID on during Figure 8.4) construction Year VP 1 This view is Open view looking east north-east. The recreational path Recreational route of national importance and high value. The route is well Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Moderate representative of and surrounding fields occupy the foreground with the used by walkers, anglers and cyclists enjoying attractive views of the erecting of the piers, northern abutment and bridge deck would be adverse those available , visible through intervening vegetation, to the surrounding rural countryside. Views have a high susceptibility to change. dominant in the foreground and middle distance of views from this part [R] to pedestrians left of the view. The river provides a focal point as it These receptors have a high sensitivity to the proposed construction of the route. Whilst push launching the viaduct section of the and cyclists approaches the Millennium Bridge in the middle distance. works. development is intended to reduce potential impact on the surrounding Dist. using the To the north, the steep wooded northern riverbank and landscape, it is not possible to push launch the bridge section. Due to the footpath (P5) hillside beyond contain and foreshorten the view. To the weight and size of the elements required to construct the main spans over 40m and NCN 8 on south, more open, 180° views extend over the fields to the the river and the northern abutment, cranes and piling rigs are likely to the southern rising ground at Pen yr Allt. be prominent and dynamic features in this view. Changes arising from Grid Ref: bank of the the construction phase would be large scale, occupying a considerable River Dyfi. proportion of views but would be temporary, short term and reversible. SH 7479 The magnitude of change to views as a result of the construction phase 0194 over and above those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be moderate to minor.

VP2 Pedestrians and Open and slightly elevated view partially filtered through Recreational route of national importance and high value. The route is well Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Moderate cyclists using the tall feature railings to the bridge. The River Dyfi forms used by walkers and cyclists enjoying attractive views of the surrounding erecting of the piers, northern abutment and bridge deck would be adverse NCN 8. an attractive and dynamic focal point in the foreground rural countryside. Views have a high susceptibility to change. These dominant in the foreground and middle distance of this view. Due to the [S] Crossing the and middle distance of this view. To the north, the steep receptors have a high sensitivity to the proposed construction works. weight and size of the elements required to construct the main spans over Millennium wooded northern riverbank and hillside beyond contain the river and the northern abutment, cranes and piling rigs are likely to Dist. Bridge. and foreshorten the view. To the south, more open, 180° be prominent and dynamic features in this view. Changes arising from 30m views extend over the fields to the east of the site. Cars the construction phase would occupy a considerable proportion of the using the A487 are partially and fleetingly visible, filtered western and south-western part of this wide view, and would be at odds through the deciduous riverside trees in winter. with its character. However the changes would be temporary, short term Grid Ref: and reversible. The magnitude of change to views as a result of the SH 7492 construction phase over and above those assessed in table 2 below are 0198 judged to be moderate to minor. VP3 Road users on View available to southbound driver and cyclists. To the This route is a busy trunk road through the southern edge of Works to clear mature vegetation from the riverbank in the middle Slight to the A487 (R2). east the view extends beyond the roadside hedgerow over National Park (SNP). It is of National Importance and visual amenity is of distance of this view would be visible. Once cleared, views would be moderate fields laid to pasture to the hills around Bryn-Tudor. To medium value. Driver’s attention would be focussed on the task of driving available to the nearest and tallest element of the works to the bridge adverse [R] the south views are foreshortened in the middle distance along this fast section of road on a bend. Southbound travellers would over the River Dyfi. Cranes and piling rigs would be visible as would by the mature tree-lined north bank of the River Dyfi. notice views opening out over the landscape to the east, having emerged earthworks and road works to create the junction in the foreground of the Dist. 5m In winter the suspension structure of the Millennium from the heavy woodland cover, just to the north. Views to the south (in view. Bridge is just visible through leafless trees. The the direction of travel) and east are of medium susceptibility to change For the duration of the construction phase a construction compound foreground of the view is dominated by the existing A487 from construction activity. The sensitivity of these receptors is considered would be visible beyond the roadside hedgerow to the left of the view. to be moderate.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at point Represented During Construction Winter (receptor ID on during Figure 8.4) construction Year Grid Ref: Cyclists on Road and cycle path. The steep and partially wooded Cyclists would be using the traffic-free roadside section of NCN 8. This is Changes arising from the construction phase would occupy a Moderate SH 7453 NCN 8. hillside to the northwest foreshortens views west and a nationally important route with views of high value. Cyclists would be considerable proportion of this view, but only to the area within 300m of adverse 0199 north. travelling at slower speeds and with attention more likely to be focussed the viewpoint the visible construction works would be partially at odds on views of the surrounding countryside. Their susceptibility to changes in with the character of this view. However the changes would be visual amenity is medium to high. These receptors are considered to be temporary, short term and reversible. The magnitude of change to views highly sensitive. as a result of the construction phase over and above those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be moderate to minor. Single dwelling, This property has similar, but more oblique and partial The visual amenity of residents in the property are considered to be of Parts of the northern construction compound, some traffic management Slight at the Junction views focussed in an easterly direction over the Dyfi high value and of individual importance. The property faces east affording works and occasional congested traffic may be obliquely and partially adverse of A487 and valley. residents wide and attractive views over the Dyfi valley. The susceptibility visible and could impact the visual amenity of residents in the garden to B4404. of these receptors to changes in their views is high. The sensitivity of this the rear of this property, but would be barely noticeable. residential receptors is assessed as high. Notably this property has no windows facing south or west. The magnitude of change to views as a result of the operational phase is judged to be Negligible. VP4 Users of a short An open and elevated view looking southwest from the Views of road users of the minor rural road (B4404) (R1) are of local Road users would experience occasional glimpsed open views of the Slight length of the B4404 adjacent to Glan-fechan. This is one of few importance and high value, but their susceptibility to change is medium northern end of the site, which would contain a considerable area of road adverse B4404 (R1) glimpsed views through gaps in the roadside hedgerow. due to their attention being focussed on the task of driving and the works and a temporary construction compound which would be seen as a [R] outside SNP. The foreground of this view is dominated by the roofs of restricted nature of views out. Thus their sensitivity to changes in views is contrasting element occupying a small proportion of the wide views. The the nearby farm buildings. moderate. changes as a result of visible construction activities would be temporary, Dist. short term and reversible. The magnitude of change to the visual amenity of road users as a result of construction phase would be minor. 500m In summer, intervening trees obscure views to most of the This view flat valley floor around the site. In winter however, the Farm workers at Glan-fechan (A) are of individual to community value Due to the farm and dwelling being sitting lower in the landscape than Neutral to represents one and are considered to be of low susceptibility to change due to the nature the view taken from the nearby road, the extent of visibility towards the slight adverse Grid Ref: suspension structure of the Millennium Bridge and Dyfi available to of their work not focussed on views of the surrounding countryside. Thus site is very limited. Evergreen screen / shelter planting on the property’s SH 7546 Eco Park are partially visible filtered through intervening Workers at Glan their sensitivity to changes in views is low. southwest edge would screen most views out. Those that are available in 0225 trees. The roofs of cars using the A487, just north of the Fechan farm site are visible over the adjacent hedgerow. The the direction of the site are foreshortened by more distant intervening (A); and surrounding hills form a dramatic backdrop to the view. belts of mature trees along the and field boundaries. In winter the views towards the proposed construction compound and associated lighting would be partially and fleetingly visible from some Residents In The visual amenity of residents in the single dwelling (A) at Glan-fechan locations on the property. The magnitude of change to the visual amenity Neutral to Glan Fechan is of individual importance and of high value. The house is oriented of these receptors during construction would be negligible. slight adverse Farm house (A). northwest – southeast taking advantage of the views across the valley towards Garth and Dolguog Hall views in and around the property in all other directions are dominated by farm buildings. The susceptibility of these residents to changes in their south-westerly view is low. Thus their sensitivity to changes in views is moderate.

VP5 Footpath users An open panoramic view looking west. The River Dyfi This viewpoint is on the southeast edge of the SNP, the visual amenity of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight to and anglers on dominates the foreground and meanders gently northwest walkers and anglers using the route is considered to be of national erecting of the piers, northern abutment and bridge deck would be visible moderate the riverside to pass under the Millennium Bridge seen as a prominent importance and high value. With their recreational focus on enjoyment of in the middle distance of views from this part of the route. Whilst push adverse [R] PRoW (P5). component in the middle distance of this view. The the attractive rural setting, their susceptibility to change is considered to be launching the viaduct section of the development is intended to reduce wooded hills of Foel Fridd and Foel Goch within SNP high. Thus their sensitivity to changes in views is high. potential impact on the surrounding landscape, it is not possible to push Dist. form a dramatic backdrop to the west and northwest. The launch the bridge section. Due to the weight and size of the elements view extends further along the flat rural River Dyfi valley required to construct the main spans over the river and the northern 230m floor to the southwest. Further south some rail buildings abutment, cranes and piling rigs are likely to be prominent and dynamic near the Dyfi Eco Park are partially visible beyond features in this view. Changes arising from the construction phase would Grid Ref: intervening trees and below the hills north of be medium scale, occupying a moderate proportion of views but would SH 7506 – Pen yr Allt. be temporary, short term and reversible. The magnitude of change to 0184 views would be minor.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at point Represented During Construction Winter (receptor ID on during Figure 8.4) construction Year VP6 Passengers on One of three short (200-300m) lengths of the line without Views available to anglers, walkers and passengers on the Cambrian Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight the Cambrian trackside vegetation obscuring views north. Where views Line in this rural landscape adjacent to and taking in the setting of the SNP erecting of the piers, northern abutment and bridge deck would be adverse Line scenic north over the floodplain and towards the site are are considered to be of national importance and are highly valued. All partially visible in the distance from short lengths of the routes. Whilst [R] railway (T1) available, both the site and the Millennium Bridge are seen these receptors are considered likely to be at least partly focused on push launching the viaduct section of the development is intended to and Footpath as small components in the distance, below the prominent enjoying views of the surrounding countryside. The proximity to SNP reduce potential impact on the surrounding landscape, it is not possible Dist. users and backdrop of wooded hills to the northwest. The foreground raises expectations of the quality of views as does the scenic status of the to push launch the bridge section. Due to the weight and size of the 650m anglers on the is occupied by flat open fields with wood pole overhead . The susceptibility of these receptors to changes in their elements required to construct the main spans over the river and the riverside PRoW lines adjacent to the track. The river is visible beyond the views is high. Thus their sensitivity to changes in views is high. northern abutment, cranes and piling rigs are likely to be noticeable and

(P5), which fields, further west along the line the next viewing dynamic features in this view. Changes arising from the construction Grid Ref: crosses the opportunity is where track side vegetation has been phase would be small scale, occupying a small proportion of views and SH 7546 railway nearby. displaced by industrial uses which locally dominates the would be temporary, short term and reversible. The magnitude of change 0165 foreground views. to views would be negligible.

VP7 Hotel guests at The hotel and many of its bedrooms and communal rooms Views from this hotel are of local community importance and are highly The proposed construction works and compound would be largely Neutral to the Plas face north-northeast directly across the River Dyfi valley. valued. The business relies at least in part on the quality of the views from screened from view by intervening trees. Some of the works to the slight adverse Dolguog Hotel This vista is distant an unobstructed, but framed by its rooms and grounds. The susceptibility of this receptor to changes in bridge section over the River Dyfi and to the northern abutment would [S] (B2). topography and mature vegetation restricting visibility visual amenity is high. Thus the sensitivity to changes in views is be visible as a very small component in the distance. In winter the views either side. The foreground is occupied by the hotel’s moderate. towards the proposed construction compound and associated lighting Dist. formal gardens with the middle ground comprising the flat would be partially and fleetingly visible from some locations on the 1.1km valley floor and the backdrop of partially wooded hills at property. The magnitude of change to the visual amenity of these Foel-y-ffridd and Bryn-coch. The millennium Footbridge receptors during construction would be negligible.

and the northern extents of the site are partially visible to Grid Ref: the left of the vista. SH 7613 0177 VP8 Walkers using Partially open, elevated and distant vista overlooking the Views available to walkers using the designated long distance route are of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight the Coast western end of Machynlleth and the River Dyfi valley. national importance and high value. Walker’s attention would be focussed erecting of the piers, northern abutment and bridge deck would be adverse Footpath and This and other more restricted views are only available to to a considerable extent on the surrounding countryside and expectations partially visible in the distance. Elements of the construction phase that [R] Glyndwr’s Way walkers and road users for very short lengths of each route. on the quality of views along this way marked and publicised walk would would not form art of the completed Scheme (which are assessed below Long distance The flat and irregular field pattern of the valley floor be high. The susceptibility and thus overall sensitivity of these receptors to in Table 2) would be barely perceptible as a small component within the Dist. Recreational occupy the middle distance and an attractive and eye- changes in their view is high. context of the urban form of Machynlleth. The temporary construction 1.3km path catching back drop is provided by the hills of SNP. The compound proposed to the north of the Dyfi Eco Park would be partially River Dyfi is visible meandering across the valley to the visible as a tiny component in this view. The magnitude of change to this

Road users on left of the view. The road is a minor unclassified country lane and is considered to be of view would be negligible. Neutral to Grid Ref: the unclassified high value and local importance. The more elevated section of this route Slight SH 7401 nearby rural (approximately 200m either side of the Viewpoint) offers attractive views adverse 0003 lane (R5). of the surrounding countryside, otherwise views from lower more tree- lined sections are more fleeting. Road users’ attention would be focused more on their journey along this single lane twisting road than on the surrounding views. The susceptibility of these receptors to change is medium. Thus the sensitivity to changes in views is moderate. Residents in two The visual amenity of residents in the properties are considered to be of Slight properties at high value and of individual importance. The properties face west- adverse Cae-Gybi northwest affording residents and attractive rural views over the part of the Cottages. (K). Dyfi valley. The susceptibility of these receptors to changes in their views is high. The sensitivity of this residential receptors is assessed as high.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at point Represented During Construction Winter (receptor ID on during Figure 8.4) construction Year VP9 Passengers An elevated and open, but partly restricted view north In this urban edge location, adjacent to and taking in the rural setting of the Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight to using the from the southwest bound station platform above the SNP, views available to rail passengers on the Cambrian Line are roadworks to the new road the existing road and drainage outlets, would Moderate Cambrian bridge over the A487. The southern end of the site is considered to be of national importance and are highly valued. All these be prominent in the foreground and middle distance of this view. As part adverse [S] railway line at visible in the middle distance with the A487 leading north receptors are considered likely to be partly focused on enjoying views of of the construction of the southern end of the viaduct section of the Machynlleth to the existing Pont ar Ddyfi just visible in the distance the surrounding countryside. The proximity to NSP raises expectations of Scheme, piling rigs and cranes are likely to be prominent and dynamic Dist. Station. below the line of white cottages at Pen-y-bont. The middle the quality of views as does the scenic status of the Cambrian Line, but the features in this view. These changes would be seen in the context of the 50m ground is obscured by the Dyfi Eco Park to the right of the urban context of the station counters that expectation. The susceptibility of existing road, the adjacent built form of the Dyfi Eco Park and that view and trackside trees to the left. The distant backdrop is these receptors to changes in their views is medium. Thus their sensitivity associated with the railway station in the foreground.

formed by the wooded hill side of Foel-y-ffridd. to changes in views is moderate to high. Changes arising from the construction phase would occupy a moderate Grid Ref: proportion of the middle part of this wide view, and would contrast SH 7442 slightly with its character. However the changes would be temporary, 0128 short term and reversible. The magnitude of change to views as a result of the construction phase over and above those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be minor.

VP10 Road users on Looking west and northwest from the entrance to the Dyfi The visual amenity of road users on the busy A487 trunk road on the Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight to the A487. Eco Park, the foreground is dominated by the existing northern edge of Machynlleth and approaching the southern edge of SNP, roadworks to the new road and the existing road, would be dominant in moderate A487 and associated infrastructure including railings, is of national importance and of medium value. Driver’s attention would the foreground and middle distance of this view. The nearby trees to the adverse [R] flood gates, and post-mounted road lighting. The middle be focused on the task of driving along this fast section of road. right of the view would be removed as part of the works which would distance is occupied by the open fields across the flat Northbound travellers would notice views opening out over the landscape open views up to more of the works. As part of the construction of the Dist. 5m valley floor leading to the River Dyfi. The distant hills of to the west, having emerged from under the railway bridge on the north southern end of the viaduct section of the Scheme, piling rigs and cranes SNP provide a dramatic backdrop to the view. A single edge of Machynlleth just to the south. Views are of medium susceptibility are likely to be prominent and dynamic features in this view. These

dwelling at Penrhyn Dyfi is visible at the bottom of the to change as a result of construction activity. The sensitivity of these changes would be seen in the context of the existing road and the Grid Ref: hillside in the distance. The tree in the foreground to the receptors is considered to be moderate. adjacent built form of the Dyfi Eco Park. SH 7444 right of the view is one of a stand of several forming a belt Changes arising from the construction phase would occupy a large 0141 of woodland containing the west edge of the Dyfi Eco proportion of this view, and would contrast with its character. However Workers and Park. Views available to workers and visitors to the Eco Park with this and Slight visitors to the other similar views out of the site are considered to be of medium the changes would be temporary, short term and reversible. The adverse Dyfi Eco Park. importance and local value and to be of low susceptibility to the proposed magnitude of change to views as a result of the construction phase over construction works as a result of their urban, industrial and commercial and above those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be moderate to surroundings. The sensitivity or their visual amenity is considered to be minor. low.

Residents in the Residents in the single private dwelling adjacent to the Eco Park entrance Slight to single private are of individual importance and of high value. Similarly their views are moderate dwelling on the considered to be of low susceptibility to the proposed construction works adverse west edge of the as a result of their urban, industrial and commercial surroundings. The Eco Park. sensitivity of these residents to changes in their visual amenity is moderate.

VP 11 Drivers using Looking east and northeast from the point on the existing The visual amenity of road users on the busy A487 trunk road just north of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Moderate the A487. A487 at which the proposed new road converge with it. Machynlleth and approaching the southern edge of SNP, is of national roadworks to the new road and the existing road, would be dominant in adverse The foreground is dominated by the existing road and the importance and of medium value. Driver’s attention would be focussed on the foreground and middle distance of this view. The exact location of [R] railings and fragmented and varied roadside vegetation the task of driving along this fast section of road. Northbound travellers this viewpoint might change slightly as a result of temporary diversions along it. Small areas of the valley floor fields and some of would notice the surrounding scenery suddenly becoming rural as they to accommodate the construction works. The nearby roadside vegetation Dist. 0m the overgrown hedgerows dividing these fields are visible travel out of Machynlleth and past the Eco Park. Views are of medium would be removed as part of the works which would open views up to between gaps in intervening vegetation. The distant susceptibility to change. The sensitivity of these receptors is considered to more of the works in the fields beyond. As part of the construction of the

backdrop is formed by the hills of Foel-y-ffridd and Bryn- be moderate. southern end of the viaduct section of the Scheme, piling rigs and cranes Grid Ref: are likely to be prominent and dynamic features in this view. These

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at point Represented During Construction Winter (receptor ID on during Figure 8.4) construction Year SH 7442 Cyclists and coch. A wooden pole mounted electricity line passes Cyclists and pedestrians would use the traffic-free roadside path which changes would be seen in the context of the existing road, the adjacent Moderate to 0154 pedestrians directly overhead. forms part of NCN 8 and 82 and the Wales Coast Path. These are built form of the Dyfi Eco Park. large adverse using NCN 8 nationally important routes with views of high value. Cyclists travelling at Changes arising from the construction phase would occupy a large and 82 and the slower speeds and with attention more likely to be focussed on views of proportion of this view, and would contrast with its character. However Wales Coast the surrounding countryside, but would be constantly aware of the the changes would be temporary, short term and reversible. The Path. detracting presence of the adjacent trunk road and their proximity to magnitude of change to views as a result of the construction phase over Machynlleth and the Eco Park. Their susceptibility to changes in visual and above those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be moderate. amenity is medium to high. These receptors are considered to be highly sensitive.

VP 12 Drivers using Looking east from the existing A487. The foreground is The visual amenity of road users on the busy A487 trunk road just north of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight the A487. dominated by the existing road and the railings and intact Machynlleth and on the southern edge of SNP, is of national importance roadworks to the new road and the existing road, would be dominant in adverse clipped roadside hedgerow along it. The valley floor fields and of medium value. Driver’s attention would be focussed on the task of the foreground and middle distance of this view. The exact location of [R] and the nearest overgrown hedgerows dividing them are driving along this fast section of road. Northbound travellers would notice this viewpoint might change slightly as a result of temporary diversions visible over the intervening hedge. Looking along the the surrounding scenery having become more rural as they travelled out of to accommodate the construction works. As part of the construction of Dist.0m length of the Dyfi valley, the distant backdrop is formed Machynlleth and past the Eco Park. Views are of medium susceptibility to the southern end of the viaduct section of the Scheme, piling rigs and by the very distant hills of Mynydd y Cemmaes. The change. The sensitivity of these receptors is considered to be moderate. cranes are likely to be prominent and dynamic features in this view.

valley sides, formed by Pen yr Allt to the south and Bryn- These changes would be seen in the context of the existing road, the Grid Ref: coch to the northeast, foreshorten views to the right and nearby built form of the Dyfi Eco Park. Cyclists and Cyclists and pedestrians would use the traffic-free roadside path which Slight to SH 7439 left respectively. Another wooden pole mounted electricity pedestrians forms part of NCN 8 and 82 and the Wales Coast Path. These are Changes arising from the construction phase would occupy a moderate moderate 0169 line passes overhead to the right. using NCN 8 nationally important routes with views of high value. Cyclists travelling at proportion of this view, and would contrast with its character. However adverse and 82 and the slower speeds and with attention more likely to be focussed on views of the changes would be temporary, short term and reversible. The Wales Coastal the surrounding countryside, but in this location would be constantly magnitude of change to views as a result of the construction phase over Path. aware of the detracting presence of the adjacent trunk road and their and above those assessed in Table 2 below are judged to be minor. proximity to Machynlleth and the Eco Park. Their susceptibility to changes in visual amenity is medium to high. These receptors are considered to be highly sensitive.

VP 13 Drivers using Looking east and northeast from the A487 as it crosses the The visual amenity of road users on the busy A487 trunk road just north of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight the A487 (R4) River Dyfi on the Pont ar Ddyfi. The foreground is Machynlleth and approaching the southern edge of SNP, is of national roadworks to the new road and to the existing A487 south of the Pont Ar adverse on the Pont ar dominated by the existing road and the bridge’s masonry importance and of medium value. Driver’s attention would be focussed on Ddyfi, would be partially visible as small components in the middle [R] Ddyfi. parapet wall. The river under the bridge is the focal point the task of driving along this fast section of road. Views are of medium distance of views from these houses. As part of the construction of the of this view leading the eye into the middle distance of the susceptibility to change. The sensitivity of these receptors is considered to southern end of the viaduct section of the development, piling rigs and Dist. 0m view. Fields and their overgrown dividing hedgerows with be moderate. cranes are likely to be noticeable and dynamic features in this view. mature trees are visible in the middle distance. This These changes would be seen in the context of the existing road and the

intervening vegetation obscures much of the site from adjacent built form of the Dyfi Eco Park. Changes arising from these Grid Ref: Cyclists and view. The Millennium Bridge and the adjacent site of the The visual amenity of People enjoying the visual setting of this listed and aspects of the construction phase would occupy a small and middle Slight to SH 7441 pedestrians proposed river crossing is not visible in summer but would Scheduled historic asset and Cyclists and pedestrians using NCN 8 and distant proportion of these views, and would contrast slightly with their moderate 0191 using the A487 be partly visible through the riverside trees in winter. 82 and the Wales Coast Path is nationally important with views of high character. adverse (R4), NCN 8 value. Distant hills of Pen yr Allt and Bryn-Tudor form the Construction activities associated with the de-trunking of the Pont Ar and 82 and the skyline between and above the intervening trees. A People crossing this bridge have to use the carriageway due to the Wales Coast Dyfi would include minor works to the road surface and kerb lines to wooden pole mounted electricity line crosses the middle restricted width of the bridge. These. People, travelling at slower speeds reconfigure the junction at its northern end. Some minor improvement Path on the Pont distance. that the traffic, would have their attention divided between views of the ar Ddyfi and works to underground surface water drains near Pen-y-bont would be surrounding countryside and being constantly aware of the detracting visible. These works would be seen at close quarters and would people enjoying presence of the trunk road and the dangers of crossing the narrow bridge. the visual potentially dominate views but only for a short period of time towards Their susceptibility to changes in visual amenity is medium to high. These the end of the construction phase. setting of the receptors are considered to be highly sensitive. Scheduled and All of the above changes would be temporary, short term and reversible. Listed Pont ar The magnitude of change to views as a result of the construction phase Ddyfi. over and above those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be minor.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at point Represented During Construction Winter (receptor ID on during Figure 8.4) construction Year Residents in The visual amenity of residents in the 9 properties at Pen-y-bont on the Slight to nearby north side of the bridge and people enjoying views to and from these moderate properties (D, E Listed buildings is considered to be of high value and of individual adverse and F) and importance in the case of residents and national importance in the case of people enjoying Listed Buildings. the visual All of the properties currently have views dominated by the existing road settings of the at close quarters. The two properties on the north bank of the river, nearby Listed immediately to the east of the Pont ar Ddyfi, also have open southerly Buildings at views which are not degraded by the existing road. The susceptibility of Pen-y-bont. these receptors to changes in their views is medium. The sensitivity of these residential receptors is assessed as moderate to high.

VP 14 Residents in a From this elevated south facing view overlooking the The visual amenity of residents in the property are considered to be of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight property off the valley, the foreground is dominated by the existing road high value and of individual importance. The foreground of the southerly roadworks to the new road and to the existing A487 south of the Pont ar adverse A487 to the east and its roadside vegetation. The river is just visible beyond view is dominated and restricted by the existing roadside vegetation at Ddyfi, would be partially visible as small components in the middle [S] of Pen-y-bont. the intervening vegetation. Fields and their overgrown close quarters. The susceptibility of these receptors to changes in their distance of views from these houses. As part of the construction of the dividing hedgerows with mature trees are visible in the views is high. The sensitivity of this residential receptors is assessed as southern end of the viaduct section of the development, piling rigs and Dist. middle distance. This intervening vegetation obscures high. cranes are likely to be noticeable and dynamic features in this view. 250m much of the site from view. The distant hills of Pen yr Allt These changes would be seen in the context of the existing road and the form the skyline between and above the intervening trees. adjacent built form of the Dyfi Eco Park. Changes arising from these

A wooden pole mounted overhead cable cross the view in aspects of the construction phase would occupy a small and middle Grid Ref: the foreground. distant proportion of this view, and would contrast with its character. SH 7451 The above changes would be temporary, short term and reversible. The 0199 magnitude of change to views as a result of the construction phase over and above those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be negligible.

VP 15 Footpath users An open panoramic view looking east-southeast. The This viewpoint is on the southeast edge of the SNP, the visual amenity of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight to and anglers on River Dyfi dominates the foreground and to the left of the walkers and anglers using the route is considered to be of national erecting of the piers, northern abutment and bridge deck would be barely moderate the riverside view. The foreground elsewhere and the middle distance importance and high value. With their recreational focus on enjoyment of visible in the distance of views from this part of the route. Cranes and adverse [R] PRoW (P5). of the view is dominated by open fields laid to pasture. the attractive rural setting, their susceptibility to change is considered to be piling rigs are likely to be noticeable and dynamic features in this view. The wooded hills of Pen yr Allt and Bryn Tudor form a high. Thus their sensitivity to changes in views is high. The relatively minor and short-term works associated with the Dist. distant back drop to the southeast and the view extends downgrading and tying in of the existing A487 across the valley would 300m further along the flat rural River Dyfi valley floor to the be visible in the middle distance. Changes arising from the construction east. The Dyfi Eco Park and the rail buildings around phase would be medium scale, occupying a moderate proportion of

Machynlleth Station are partially visible above intervening views but would be temporary, short term and reversible. The magnitude Grid Ref: hedgerows and trees below Pen yr Allt. of change to views as a result of the construction phase over and above SH 7411 those assessed in table 2 below are judged to be negligible. 0179 VP 16 Road users on The foreground of this view is dominated by the road and This route is a busy trunk road through the southern edge of SNP. It is of The most visible part of the Scheme and construction works to the new Neutral to the A487 (R3) roadside post and wire fence through which the nearest national importance and visual amenity is of medium value. Driver’s viaduct and the river crossing would not be visible from this viewpoint. sight adverse field leads down to the tree-lined River Dyfi. The river is attention would be focussed on the task of driving along this fast section of The works associated with construction of the southern embankment and [R] partially and fleetingly visible in the middle distance of the road on a bend. Eastbound travellers may notice glimpsed and partial tie-in and with the downgrading of the existing A487 would be partially view. Beyond the river and through gaps in the intervening views of the river to the southeast. Views to the south and east are of visible against the backdrop of built form at the Dyfi Eco Park and Dist. mature trees, the fields of the valley floor are visible medium susceptibility to change from construction activity. The sensitivity nearby rail infrastructure. Construction work would be seen as glimpsed, 450m leading to the distant hills north and northeast of of these receptors is considered to be moderate. distant components and would be barely noticeable in wider views. Machynlleth. The site is partially visible as a tiny Changes arising from the construction phase would be medium scale,

component in the middle to distant part of this view. occupying a moderate proportion of views but would be temporary, short term and reversible. The magnitude of change to views as a result of the

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at point Represented During Construction Winter (receptor ID on during Figure 8.4) construction Year Grid Ref: Cyclists on Cyclists would be using this on-road section of NCN 8. This is a construction phase over and above those assessed in table 2 below are Slight SH 7395 NCN 8. nationally important route with views of high value. Cyclists travelling at judged to be negligible. adverse 0171 slower speeds would have their attention divided between views of the surrounding countryside, and the task of travelling along a fast road. Their susceptibility to changes in visual amenity is medium to high. These receptors are considered to be highly sensitive.

Residents of the The visual amenity of residents in the property and people enjoying views Slight dwelling at to and from the nearby Listed buildings is considered to be of high value adverse Penrhyn Dyfi and of individual importance in the case of residents and national and people importance in the case of Listed Buildings. The foreground of the enjoying the southerly view is dominated and restricted by the existing roadside visual settings vegetation at close quarters. The front elevation of the property faces of the nearby southeast towards Machynlleth. The susceptibility of these receptors to Listed Buildings changes in their views is high. The sensitivity of this residential receptors at Penrhyn Dyfi. is assessed as high.

VP 17 Users of the The foreground of this elevated view southeast over the The visual amenity of walkers using the nationally designated Wales The works associated with construction of the southern half of the Slight to Wales Coast valley is occupied by the lane and the adjacent post and Coast Path within SNP is of high value. This is one of the first local views viaduct and the southern embankment and tie-in would be visible in the moderate Path, the nearby wire mesh fence. The land drops away steeply down to the along the route overlooking and approaching the valley crossing point middle distance of this view. Works associated with the downgrading of adverse [S] Open Access river, with only a stand of mature trees and the dwelling at towards Machynlleth. The susceptibility to changes in visual amenity of the nearer existing A487 would be visible. The works would be seen in Land at Foel-y- Penrhyn Dyfi interrupting the view of the River Dyfi. these receptors is high. These receptors are considered to be highly the context of the backdrop of built form at the Dyfi Eco Park and nearby Dist. ffridd (two Beyond the river, middle distant views extend over the flat sensitive. rail infrastructure. Construction works would be seen as minor middle 500m residential open fields of the floodplain, with occasional mature distant components and would be noticeable in wider views. Changes properties hedgerow trees interrupting the otherwise regular filed arising from the construction phase would be medium scale, occupying a accessed via this pattern. Dyfi Eco Park and the railway station built form is moderate proportion of views but would be temporary, short term and Grid Ref: road do not have visible below Pen yr Allt and the western extent of reversible. The magnitude of change to views as a result of the SH 7395 views of the Machynlleth seen beyond. The Wooded hills south of construction phase over and above those assessed in table 2 below are 0190 relevant part of Machynlleth and around form the distant judged to be minor. the valley). backdrop. VP 18 People using the This open elevated view overlooks the Dyfi valley north of Views available to walkers using the PRoW and Open Access Land are of Construction activities including vegetation clearance, earthworks and Slight PRoW in Open Machynlleth from a distance. The foreground is occupied local importance and high value. Walker’s attention would be focussed to erecting of the piers, northern abutment and bridge deck would be adverse Access Land at by the intervening hillside which drops steeply down to a considerable extent on the surrounding countryside and expectations on partially visible in the distance of this wide open view. Elements of the [S] Mynydd on the A487. The middle distance comprises the quality of views along this route would be high. The view currently construction phase, which would not form part of the completed Scheme Cynffyrch the Dyfi valley surrounded on all sides in this view by the contains the railway line and built form at Machynlleth. The susceptibility assessed below in Table 2, would be barely perceptible as a small Dist. above surrounding hills. The northwest edge of Machynlleth and and thus overall sensitivity of these receptors to changes in their view is component within the context of the existing built form and 3.5km Derwenlas. the Dyfi Eco Park are seen to the right of the valley. The high. infrastructure visible. The temporary construction compound proposed to River Dyfi and the Cambrian Railway Line are visible the north of the Dyfi Eco Park would be partially visible as a tiny

making their way across the valley floor. The view extends component in this view. The magnitude of change to this view would be Grid Ref: northeast to Bryn coch with a backdrop of more distant negligible. SN 7185 hills. 9893

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Visual Assessment Table – Operation Key Dist. = Distance to nearest part of the Scheme Receptor category = [R] – Representative, [S] – Specific, [I] – Illustrative Grid Ref = Accurate grid reference for the viewpoint Sensitivity = (High, Moderate, Low) Refer to criteria tables in Chapter 8 Nature of Change = Magnitude (, Major, Moderate, Minor, Negligible, No Change), Permanent/Temporary (short-term: 5yrs, medium term: 5-15 yrs, long term: >15yrs), Reversible/ Irreversible. Refer to criteria tables in Chapter 8

Table 2 assessment of visual effects arising from the operational phase View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) VP 1 This view is Open view looking east north-east Recreational route of national The Scheme including the viaduct, northern Very large The river banks would receive landscape mitigation here to improve the Large representative of the recreational path and importance and high value within the abutment and bridge section would be dominant adverse setting of the river and the bridge section of the Scheme. Proposed willow adverse those available surrounding fields occupy the SNP. The route is well used by in the foreground and middle distance of views scrub along the back of the existing shingle beach and feathered crack [R] to pedestrians foreground with the River Dyfi, walkers, anglers and cyclists enjoying from this part of the route. At ground level, the willow tree planting along the river bank. This planting has two purposes. and cyclists visible through intervening attractive views of the surrounding viaduct and bridge would be visually permeable Firstly to stabilise the river bank against erosion and to soften and partially Dist. using the vegetation, to the left of the view. rural countryside. Views have a high with approximately 5-10% of the view occupied obscure close views of the bridge piers and help assimilate the structure footpath (P5) The river provides a focal point as susceptibility to change. These by the vertical piers (depending on the angle of into the riparian setting. 40m and NCN 8 on it approaches the Millennium receptors have a high sensitivity to the view). The structure would be a simple On the far (northern) side of the river, the steep retained river bank would

the southern Bridge in the middle distance. To proposed Scheme. construction of steel and concrete and its be planted with willow scrub. Again this planting has several functions; to Grid Ref: bank of the the north, the steep wooded elevation is designed to be as shallow as possible. stabilise the steep bank, to encourage bats to pass under the bridge rather River Dyfi. northern riverbank and hillside The viaduct section would be 3.2m from the SH 7479 than over it and to soften views of the northern bridge abutment. beyond contain and foreshorten bottom of the steel girders to the top of the guard 0194 the view. To the south, more railing. The existing views would not be obscured The northern abutment is proposed to be clad in coursed slate stone to open, 180° views extend over the but would be interrupted and framed by the improve its aesthetic appearance, more in keeping with the local fields to the rising ground at Pen structure, which would be dominant and would vernacular. yr Allt. break the skyline. Further south as the viaduct passes over fields, re-stitching of the field Changes to views arising from the Scheme would boundaries with fencing continuing under the viaduct and hedgerow and be medium to large in scale, occupying a tree planting either side to repair the landscape would replace lost considerable proportion of views and would be vegetation, retain the field pattern and help integrate the Scheme into the permanent and irreversible. The magnitude of landscape. change to views as a result of the operational Whilst it is anticipated that these measures would do little to screen and phase is judged to be major. reduce the scale of the change to these views, they would reduce the contrast of the new structure with its riparian setting and help integrate it into the landscape. As it matures, this planting would have a slight mitigating effect, reducing the magnitude of change from major to moderate/major. This would reduce the level of visual residual effect on users of this route to one of large adverse significance. Thus the magnitude of change would be reduced slightly to the lower end of the major category.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) VP2 Pedestrians and Open and slightly elevated view Recreational route of national The proposed Scheme, in particular the section of Very large As for Viewpoint 1 above, the landscape mitigation at the river banks is Large cyclists using partially filtered through the tall importance and high value within SNP. the bridge over the river Dyfi, would be dominant adverse intended to improve the setting of the river and the bridge section of the adverse NCN 8. feature railings to the bridge. The The route is well used by walkers and in the foreground and middle distance of views Scheme. [S] Crossing the River Dyfi forms an attractive and cyclists enjoying attractive views of the from this location. The bridge would be seen at A stand of willow scrub is proposed along the back of the existing shingle Millennium dynamic focal point in the surrounding rural countryside. Views close range and would occupy a very large beach and feathered crack willow tree planting along the river bank. This Dist. Bridge. foreground and middle distance have a high susceptibility to change. proportion of the view. The bridge section would planting has two purposes. Firstly to stabilise the river bank against 30m of this view. To the north, the These receptors have a high sensitivity be seen side on as a simple construction of steel erosion, and to soften and partially obscure close views of the bridge piers steep wooded northern riverbank to the proposed Scheme. and concrete and its elevation is designed to be as and help assimilate the structure into the riparian setting. and hillside beyond contain and shallow as possible. At its deepest it would be Grid Ref: foreshorten the view. To the 4.7m from the bottom of the steel girders to the On the northern side of the river, the steep retained river bank would be SH 7492 south, more open, 180° views top of the guard railing. The existing views to the planted with willow scrub and feathered crack willow trees. Again this 0198 extend over the fields to the east west would be interrupted and foreshortened by planting has several functions; to stabilise the steep bank, to encourage of the site. Cars using the A487 the structure. bats to pass under the bridge rather than over it and to soften views of the are partially and fleetingly visible, northern bridge abutment. The cattle underpass in front of the abutment Changes to views arising from the Scheme would has been designed to have an agricultural feel with an un-edged concrete filtered through the deciduous be large scale, occupying a large proportion of the riverside trees in winter. track and timber post and fencing. The northern abutment wall would be view west and southwest and would be permanent clad in coursed slate stone to improve its aesthetic appearance, more in and irreversible. The magnitude of change to keeping with the local vernacular. views as a result of the operational phase is judged to be major. Whilst it is anticipated that these measures would do little to reduce the scale of the change to such views they would reduce the contrast of the new structure with its riparian setting and help integrate it into the landscape. As it matures, this proposed planting would have a slight mitigating effect, bringing the magnitude of change down from major to moderate/major. This would reduce the level of residual visual effect to one of large adverse significance.

VP3 Road users on View available to southbound This route is a busy trunk road through The proposed Scheme, in particular the road to Slight to Landscape mitigation measures have been proposed in the form of native Slight the A487 (R2). drivers and cyclists. To the east the southern edge of the SNP. It is of the north of the bridge and the new junction moderate tree hedgerow and shrub planting around the northern junction. The adverse the view extends beyond the national importance and visual amenity arrangement with the A439 would be visible in adverse disturbed river bank either side of the northern abutment of the new bridge [R] roadside hedgerow over fields is of medium value. Driver’s attention the middle distance, towards the right of the view. would be planted with replacement native scrub and deciduous tree laid to pasture to the hills around would be focussed on the task of The existing A487 would be seen to continue in a planting. This is intended to re-form the mature tree line along the river Dist. 5m Bryn-Tudor. To the south views driving along this fast section of road straight line over the River Dyfi, through a new dividing the floodplain to the south from the northern slopes to the north. are foreshortened in the middle on a bend. Southbound travellers would gap in the mature riverside vegetation. Slightly This is complemented by the introduction of a continuous mixed native

distance by the mature tree-lined notice views opening out over the more of the view would be occupied by road hedges behind the southbound verge, and to the top of cuttings to the north Grid Ref: north bank of the River Dyfi. landscape to the east, having emerged infrastructure than is currently seen. An additional and west of the proposed new junction. These would tie back into the SH 7453 In winter the suspension structure from the heavy woodland cover, just to right turn lane would widen the road locally to existing boundaries and be maintained at a height of 1.5m. This proposed 0199 of the Millennium Bridge is just the north. Views to the south (in the three lanes. planting would help to integrate the development into the surrounding visible through leafless trees. The direction of travel) and east are of Changes to views arising from the Scheme would landscape and to mitigate for the loss of vegetation from construction foreground of the view is medium susceptibility to change from be slight in scale, resulting in a perceptible works. dominated by the existing A487 the proposed Scheme. The sensitivity permanent and irreversible change to the Wild flower seeding to the large open areas and cuttings, behind close road and cycle path. The steep of these receptors is considered to be proportion of the view occupied by built form. mown verges, would maintain forward visibility whilst providing valuable and partially wooded hillside to moderate. The magnitude of change to views as a result of habitat for invertebrates and improving visual amenity for road users Cyclists on the northwest foreshortens views Cyclists would be using the traffic-free the operational phase is judged to be moderate to Moderate cyclists and pedestrians. Slight to NCN 8. west and north. roadside section of NCN 8. This is a minor. adverse As a landscape feature demarking the gateway to Snowdonia National moderate nationally important route with views Park, a small stand of specimen native oak trees is proposed immediately adverse of high value. Cyclists travelling at to the north of the northern junction with the A493. This would be set slower speeds would be more likely within a native lowland wildflower meadow and an area of mixed native focussed on views of the surrounding bulb planting immediately under the trees. countryside. Their susceptibility to changes in visual amenity is medium to These measures would improve the aesthetic of the Scheme around the high. These receptors are considered to northern junction, replace trees lost during construction and integrate the be highly sensitive. scheme into the landscape. Over time as they establish, they would reduce the magnitude of change to minor. Correspondingly, the level of residual visual effect significance would reduce as set out in the column to the right.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) Single dwelling, This property has similar, but The visual amenity of residents in the Very slight alterations to the road layout and Slight The residents would benefit, to a limited extend, from the general Slight at the Junction more oblique and partial views property are considered to be of high some new highways signage to the south and west improvements to visual amenity and Scheme integration, but this would of A487 and focussed in an easterly direction value and of individual importance. of the property may be obliquely and partially not reduce the already negligible magnitude of change. B4404 over the Dyfi valley. The property faces east affording visible from the garden to the rear of this residents wide and attractive views property. Notably this property has no windows over the Dyfi valley. The susceptibility facing south or west. of these receptors to changes in their The magnitude of change to views as a result of views is high. The sensitivity of this the operational phase is judged to be Negligible. residential receptors is assessed as high. VP4 This view An open and elevated view Views of road users of the minor rural Road users would experience occasional glimpsed Slight Landscape mitigation measures have been proposed in the form of native Neutral to represents one looking southwest from the road (B4404) (R1) are of local open views of the northern end of the site, which adverse tree and shrub planting is proposed along the embankments on either side slight available to B4404 adjacent to Glan-fechan. importance and high value, but their would contain a larger area of new road, however of the new road approaching the northern end of the bridge. This is adverse [R] users of a short This is one of few glimpsed views susceptibility to change is medium due due to the intervening distance this would occupy complemented by the introduction of a continuous mixed native hedges length of the through gaps in the roadside to their attention being focussed on the a small proportion of the wide views. The existing behind the southbound verge, and to the top of cuttings to the north and Dist. B4404 (R1) hedgerow. The foreground of this task of driving and the restricted nature intervening hedge and woodland block would be west of the proposed new junction. These would tie back into the existing 500m outside SNP. view is dominated by the roofs of of views out. Thus their sensitivity to protected and retained. The changes as a result of boundaries and be maintained at a height of 1.5m. the nearby farm buildings. changes in views is moderate. the Scheme would be minor in scale, permanent This proposed structure planting would help to visually break up and and irreversible. The magnitude of change to contain the length and linearity of the proposed Scheme integrating it into Grid Ref: views as a result of the operational phase are the surrounding landscape when seen from this more distant location. It SH 7546 In summer, intervening trees judged to be minor. would also mitigate for the loss of vegetation from construction works. 0225 obscure views to most of the flat Workers at the valley floor around the site. In Farm workers at Glan-fechan (A) are Due to the farm and dwelling being sitting lower Neutral to Given time for the proposed vegetation to establish and mature it is likely Neutral to farm (A). winter however, the suspension of individual to community value and in the landscape than the view taken from the slight that the already restricted views of the development would be further slight structure of the Millennium are considered to be of low nearby road, the extent of visibility towards the adverse reduced, but will remain classified as a negligible magnitude of change in adverse Bridge and Dyfi Eco Park are susceptibility to change due to the site is very limited. Evergreen screen / shelter the case of the more elevated views from the road. In turn the level of partially visible filtered through nature of their work not focussed on planting on the property’s southwest edge would residual visual effect significance on these receptors would reduce as set intervening trees. The roofs of views of the surrounding countryside. screen most views out to the west. Those that are out in the column to the right. cars using the A487, just north of Thus their sensitivity to changes in available in the direction of the site are the site are visible over the views is low. interrupted by the middle distant belt of mature adjacent hedgerow. The trees along the Afon Dulas and field boundaries. In winter the views towards the Scheme would be Residents at the surrounding hills form a dramatic The visual amenity of residents in the Neutral to Neutral to backdrop to the view. partially and glimpsed from some locations on the farm (A). single dwelling (A) at Glan-fechan is of property. The magnitude of change to the visual slight slight individual importance and of high amenity of these receptors during operation would adverse adverse value. The house is oriented northwest be negligible. – southeast taking advantage of the views across the valley towards Garth and Dolguog Hall views in and around the property in all other directions are dominated by farm buildings. The susceptibility of these residents to changes in their south-westerly view is low. Thus their sensitivity to changes in views is moderate.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) VP5 Footpath users An open panoramic view looking This viewpoint is on the southeast edge The Scheme including the viaduct, northern Moderate Proposed tree, hedgerow and scrub planting around the northern abutment Moderate and anglers on west. The River Dyfi dominates of the SNP, the visual amenity of abutment and bridge section would be prominent to large and river banks would help to integrate the new bridge into the landscape adverse the riverside the foreground and meanders walkers and anglers using the route is in the middle distance of views from this part of adverse over time as it establishes. In particular the proposed planting to the [R] PRoW (P5). gently northwest to pass under the considered to be of national importance the PRoW. At ground level, the viaduct and northern river bank in front of the proposed bridge abutment and cattle Millennium Bridge seen as a and high value. With their recreational bridge would be visually permeable with underpass would soften and partially obscure views of these hard Dist. prominent component in the focus on enjoyment of the attractive approximately 5-10% of the view occupied by the engineered structures. middle distance of this view. The rural setting, their susceptibility to vertical piers (depending on the angle of view). 230m Further south to the left of this view, there is little scope for planting wooded hills of Foel-y-Ffridd and change is considered to be high. Thus The structure would be a simple construction of alongside the viaduct as this would contrast with the character and

Foel Goch within SNP form a their sensitivity to changes in views is steel and concrete and its elevation is designed to function of the floodplain landscape. However, as the viaduct passes over Grid Ref: dramatic backdrop to the west and high. be as shallow as possible. The viaduct would be field boundaries in the middle distance, fencing continuing under the SH 7506 northwest. The view extends 3.2m from the bottom of the steel girders to the viaduct and new hedgerow and tree planting proposed along existing field 0184 further along the flat rural River top of the guard railing. boundaries, is intended to repair the landscape either side of the Scheme. Dyfi valley floor to the southwest. The Scheme would occupy a small proportion of This would also would replace lost vegetation, retain the field pattern and Further south some rail buildings the view seen side on as a strong line across the help integrate the Scheme into the landscape. near the Dyfi Eco Park are bottom of the tree line beyond the Millennium As it matures, this planting would have a slight mitigating effect, reducing partially visible beyond Bridge. The Scheme would result in a noticeable intervening trees and below the the magnitude of change from moderate to minor/moderate. This would deterioration of the view and would be permanent correspondingly reduce the level of visual residual effect on users of this hills north of Machynlleth – Pen and irreversible. The magnitude of change to yr Allt. route to one of moderate adverse significance. views as a result of the operational phase is judged to be moderate.

VP6 Passengers on One of three short (200-300m) Views available to anglers, walkers The Scheme including the viaduct, northern Moderate Proposed tree, hedgerow and scrub planting around the northern abutment Slight to the Cambrian lengths of the line without and passengers on the Cambrian Line abutment and bridge section would be just adverse and river banks would help to integrate the new bridge into the landscape moderate Line scenic trackside vegetation obscuring in this rural landscape adjacent to and noticeable in the distance of views from this over time as it establishes. In particular the proposed planting to the adverse [R] railway (T1) views north. Where views north taking in the setting of the SNP are location. The structure would be a simple northern river bank in front of the proposed bridge abutment and cattle and footpath over the floodplain towards the considered to be of national importance construction of steel and concrete and its underpass would soften and partially obscure views of these hard Dist. users and site are available, the site and the and are highly valued. All these elevation is designed to be as shallow as possible. engineered structures. 650m anglers on the Millennium Bridge are seen as receptors are considered likely to be at The viaduct would be 3.2m from the bottom of Further south to the left of this view, there is little scope for planting riverside PRoW small components in the distance least partly focused on enjoying views the steel girders to the top of the guard railing. alongside the viaduct as this would contrast with the character and (P5), which below the prominent backdrop of of the surrounding countryside. The The Scheme would occupy a small proportion of function of the floodplain landscape. However, as the viaduct passes over Grid Ref: crosses the wooded hills to the northwest. proximity to SNP raises expectations of the view, but would contrast with the rural field boundaries in the middle distance, fencing continuing under the SH 7546 railway nearby. The foreground is occupied by the quality of views as does the scenic landscape and wooded hills beyond. The change viaduct and new hedgerow and tree planting proposed along existing field 0165 flat open fields with wood pole status of the Cambrian Line. The would be permanent and irreversible resulting in a boundaries, is intended to repair the landscape either side of the Scheme. overhead lines adjacent to the susceptibility of these receptors to perceptible alteration of the view, but would not This would also would replace lost vegetation, retain the field pattern and track. The river is visible beyond changes in their views is high. Thus alter the overall balance of features in it. The help integrate the Scheme into the landscape. the fields, further west along the their sensitivity to changes in views is magnitude of change to views from this location line the next viewing opportunity high. As it matures, this planting would have a slight mitigating effect, reducing as a result of the operational phase is judged to be the magnitude of change from minor/moderate to minor. This would is where track side vegetation has minor to moderate. been displaced by industrial uses correspondingly reduce the level of visual residual effect on users of this which locally dominates the route to one of slight/moderate adverse significance. foreground views.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) VP7 Hotel guests at The hotel and many of its Views from this hotel are of local The bridge section over the River Dyfi and the Slight In the same way as for Vp 6 above, the proposed planting around the Slight the Plas bedrooms and communal rooms community importance and are highly northern abutment would be visible as a very adverse northern junction and river bank would very slightly improve the view, adverse Dolguog Hotel face north-northeast directly valued. The business relies at least in small component in the distance and would be and reduce the magnitude of change as it matures. [S] (B2). across the River Dyfi valley. This part on the quality of the views from its largely screened from view by intervening trees. However, the change in this instance would be so small as to not reduce vista is distant an unobstructed, rooms and grounds. The susceptibility In winter the views towards the Scheme would be the magnitude of change enough to justify reclassifying it. The Dist. but framed by topography and of this receptor to changes in visual partially visible, but barely noticeable from some significance of the residual visual effect, would remain in the slight 1.1km mature vegetation restricting amenity is high. Thus the sensitivity to locations on the property. The magnitude of adverse category visibility either side. The changes in views is moderate. change to the visual amenity of these receptors

foreground is occupied by the during operation would be negligible to minor. Grid Ref: hotel’s formal gardens with the SH 7613 middle ground comprising the flat 0177 valley floor and the backdrop of partially wooded hills at Foel-y- ffridd and Bryn-coch. The Millennium Bridge and the northern extents of the site are partially visible to the left of the vista. VP8 Walkers using Partially open, elevated and Views available to walkers using the The Scheme would be partially visible in the Slight Over time as it establishes, the proposed tree, hedgerow and scrub planting Slight the Wales Coast distant vista overlooking the designated long distance route are of distance and would be barely perceptible as a adverse around the southern end of the Scheme and the de trunked Non-Motorised- adverse Path and western end of Machynlleth and national importance and high value. small component within the context of the urban Users (NMU) route would help to integrate the new bridge into the [R] Glyndwr’s Way the River Dyfi valley. This and Walker’s attention would be focussed form of Machynlleth. The magnitude of change to landscape. Long Distance other more restricted views are to a considerable extent on the this view would be negligible. Due to the elevated position and distant location of the view these changes Dist. Recreational only available to walkers and road surrounding countryside and would very slightly improve the view, but only to a very limited extent, 1.3km Path. users for very short lengths of expectations on the quality of views such that the magnitude of change would not alter from its already each route. The flat and irregular along this way marked and publicised negligible level. field pattern of the valley floor walk would be high. The susceptibility Grid Ref: occupy the middle distance and and thus overall sensitivity of these SH 7401 an attractive and eye-catching receptors to changes in their view is 0003 back drop is provided by the hills high. of SNP. The River Dyfi is visible meandering across the valley to Road users on the left of the view. The road is a minor unclassified Neutral to Neutral to the unclassified country lane and is considered to be of slight slight nearby rural high value and local importance. The adverse adverse lane (R5). more elevated section of this route (approximately 200m either side of the Viewpoint) offers attractive views of the surrounding countryside, otherwise views from lower more tree-lined sections are more fleeting. Road users’ attention would be focused more on their journey along this single lane twisting road than on the surrounding views. The susceptibility of these receptors to change is medium. Thus the sensitivity to changes in views is moderate.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) Residents in two The visual amenity of residents in the Slight Slight properties at properties are considered to be of high adverse adverse Cae-Gybi value and of individual importance. Cottages (K). The properties face west-northwest affording residents and attractive rural views over the part of the Dyfi valley. The susceptibility of these receptors to changes in their views is high. The sensitivity of this residential receptors is assessed as high. VP9 Passengers An elevated and open, but partly In this urban edge location, adjacent to The southern end of the viaduct section of the Slight to There is a concentration of new structure and amenity planting proposed Slight using the restricted view north from the and taking in the rural setting of the Scheme and the southern tie-in would be visible moderate around the southern end of the Scheme where it is on embankment and ties adverse Cambrian southwest bound station platform SNP, views available to rail from this view, framed on either side by existing adverse into the existing route. The embankments either side of the main route and [S] railway line at above the bridge over the A487. passengers on the Cambrian Line are vegetation and built form. Notably the large the NMU route would be planted with hedges and groups of native Machynlleth The southern end of the site is considered to be of national importance existing tree to the left foreground of this view specimen trees. Hedgerows are proposed either side of the road and to tie Dist. Station. visible in the middle distance with and are highly valued. All these would be removed to make way for ground re- into and reconcile the existing field pattern, integrating the proposed 50m the A487 leading north to the receptors are considered likely to be profiling and highway drainage works associated Scheme into the local landscape existing Pont ar Ddyfi just visible partly focused on enjoying views of the with the Scheme. These changes would be seen in The frontage to the Dyfi Eco Park would be improved with an amenity in the distance below the line of surrounding countryside. The the context of the existing road, the adjacent built focused arrangement of specimen tree planting and swathes of native bulb Grid Ref: white cottages at Pen-y-bont. The proximity to SNP raises expectations of form of the Dyfi Eco Park and that associated planting in mown amenity grass. SH 7442 middle ground is obscured by the the quality of views as does the scenic with the railway station in the foreground. 0128 Dyfi Eco Park to the right of the status of the Cambrian Line, but the The larger tree and scrub lost from the east side of the route, near to the Changes arising from the Scheme would occupy a railway bridge would be replaced in situ with 8 specimen native oak trees. view and trackside trees to the urban context of the station counters moderate proportion of the middle part of this left. The distant backdrop is that expectation. The susceptibility of view, and would not contrast unduly with key New open drainage ditches parallel to the Schemes’ west boundary with formed by the wooded hill side of these receptors to changes in their features of the view. The changes would be the Dyfi Eco Park would have gently ‘S’ profiles graded banks planted Foel-y-ffridd. views is medium. Thus their sensitivity permanent and irreversible. The magnitude of with mixed native aquatic and marginal plants to improve their aesthetic to changes in views is moderate to change to views as a result of the operational appeal and wildlife value. high. phase is judged to be minor. Given time for the proposed vegetation to establish and mature it is likely that views of the Scheme would be reduced slightly in particular of the southern tie in section of the existing A487. This would have a slight mitigating effect, reducing the magnitude of change to the lower end of the minor category. Correspondingly this would reduce the level of residual visual effect on these receptors to one of slight adverse significance.

VP10 Road users on Looking west and northwest from The visual amenity of road users on the The southern end of the viaduct section of the Moderate Landscape mitigation measures have been proposed in the form of native Slight the A487. the entrance to the Dyfi Eco Park, busy A487 trunk road on the northern Scheme would terminate at the southern tie-in on adverse tree and hedge planting along the new embankments on either side of the adverse the foreground is dominated by edge of Machynlleth and approaching embankment to the right side of this view. The road adjacent to the Dyfi Eco Park entrance. Amenity and meadow [R] the existing A487 and associated the southern edge of SNP, is of national Scheme would be elevated by approximately 2 to grassland with swathes of native bulb planting is proposed on the infrastructure including railings, importance and of medium value. 2.5 m at this point, obscuring views of the middle embankments and to make good all disturbed ground. The proposed Dist. 5m flood gates and post-mounted Driver’s attention would be focused on distant fields, but maintaining those to the hills of drainage ditches either side of the entrance would be planted with native road lighting. The middle distance the task of driving along this fast SNP beyond. The nearby trees to the right would marginal and aquatic planting to enhance their visual appeal, wildlife value

is occupied by the open fields section of road. Northbound travellers be retained. These changes would be seen in the and attenuation function. Grid Ref: across the flat valley floor leading would notice views opening out over context of the existing road and the adjacent built Given time for all the above the vegetation to establish and mature, in SH 7444 to the River Dyfi. The distant hills the landscape to the west, having form of the Dyfi Eco Park. particular along the eastern side of the A487 adjacent to the nursery site, 0141 of SNP provide a dramatic emerged from under the railway bridge Changes arising from the Scheme would be views of the Scheme would be improved from this viewpoint. This would backdrop to the view. A single on the north edge of Machynlleth just visually prominent and would occupy a moderate result in a mitigating effect, reducing the magnitude of change to minor. dwelling at Penrhyn Dyfi is to the south. Views are of medium proportion of the foreground of this view. The Correspondingly the level of residual visual effect on these receptors visible at the bottom of the susceptibility to change as a result of changes would be permanent and irreversible. would reduce to the levels given in the column to the right. hillside in the distance. The tree the proposed development. The The magnitude of change to views as a result of in the foreground to the right of sensitivity of these receptors is the operational phase is judged to be moderate. the view is one of a stand of considered to be moderate.

several forming a belt of

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) Workers and woodland containing the west Views available to workers and Slight Neutral to visitors to the edge of the Dyfi Eco Park. visitors to the Eco Park with this and adverse slight Dyfi Eco Park. other similar views out of the site are adverse considered to be of medium importance and local value and to be of low susceptibility to the Scheme as a result of their urban, industrial and commercial surroundings. The sensitivity or their visual amenity is considered to be low.

Residents in the Residents in the single private Moderate Slight single private dwelling adjacent to the Eco Park adverse adverse dwelling on the entrance are of individual importance west edge of the and of high value. Similarly their views Eco Park. are considered to be of low susceptibility to the proposed Scheme as a result of their urban, industrial and commercial surroundings. The sensitivity of these residents to changes in their visual amenity is moderate.

VP 11 Cyclists and Looking east and northeast from Cyclists and pedestrians would use The Scheme would be dominant in the foreground Large The mitigation planting proposed around the southern junction includes Moderate to pedestrians the point on the existing A487 at the traffic-free roadside path which and middle distance of this view. The view is adverse groups of native specimen trees, mixed native roadside hedgerows and large using the A487, which the proposed new road forms part of NCN 8 and 82 and the taken from the location at which the southern wildflower and meadow grassland seeding to the graded embankments. adverse [R] NCN 8 and 82 converge with it. The foreground Wales Coast Path. These are nationally junction ties back into the existing A487 at grade. The re-profiled drainage ditch along the eastern edge of the de-trunked and the Wales is dominated by the existing road important routes with views of high The removal of nearby roadside vegetation would route has been designed to reduce the width of the existing road and to Dist. 0m Coast Path. and the railings and fragmented value. Cyclists travelling at slower open views up to more of the Scheme in the fields provide a soft edge with marginal and aquatic planting. As these mitigation and varied roadside vegetation speeds and with attention more likely beyond. The existing railing and the far lane of measures mature they would break up and soften views of the proposed along it. Small areas of the valley to be focussed on views of the the existing road would be removed to make way Scheme and would reduce its dominance. Grid Ref: floor fields and some of the surrounding countryside, would also be for a widened drainage ditch with soft banks. The overgrown hedgerows dividing constantly aware of the detracting existing field access visible to the left of the view The magnitude of change is predicted to be lowered slightly to a level of SH 7442 moderate, with a corresponding drop in the significance levels as set out 0154 these fields are visible between presence of the adjacent trunk road and would be retained for farm and highways gaps in intervening vegetation. their proximity to Machynlleth and the maintenance access. These changes would be for each receptors to the right. The distant backdrop is formed by Eco Park. Their susceptibility to seen in the context of the existing road and the the hills of Foel-y-ffridd and changes in visual amenity is medium to adjacent built form of the nearby Dyfi Eco Park. Bryn-coch. A wooden pole high. These receptors are considered to The curved viaduct section of the Scheme would mounted electricity line passes be highly sensitive. be seen occupying a large proportion of the right directly overhead. hand half of this view, partially obscuring the distant backdrop of hills beyond. The Scheme would visually dominate the view. The above would be partially balanced out by the reduced in width of the A487 with a soft verge along much of its eastern edge. This would give it a character and visual presence more in keeping with a rural lane used for recreational purposes and occasional vehicular access. The changes would be permanent and irreversible. On balance, the magnitude of change to views is judged to be adverse and moderate to major.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) VP 12 Cyclists and Looking east from the existing Cyclists and pedestrians would use The southern half of the Scheme would occupy Moderate The re-profiled drainage ditch along the eastern edge of the de-trunked Moderate pedestrians A487. The foreground is the traffic-free roadside path which the middle distance in the eastern and south- to large route has been designed to reduce the width of the existing road and to adverse using the A487, dominated by the existing road forms part of NCN 8 and 82 and the eastern part of the view and be partially obscured adverse provide a soft edge with marginal and aquatic planting. As these mitigation [R] NCN 8 and 82 and the railings and intact clipped Wales Coast Path. These are nationally by intervening existing trees and hedges. measures mature they would break up and soften foreground views of the and the Wales roadside hedgerow along it. The important routes with views of high The Scheme would be prominent in the middle existing road and would reduce its prominence. Dist.0m Coast Path. valley floor fields and the nearest value. Cyclists travelling at slower distance of this view, seen side on below the The mitigation planting proposed on the graded embankments around the overgrown hedgerows dividing speeds and with attention more likely backdrop of distant hills. These changes would be southern junction includes groups of native specimen trees, mixed native them are visible over the to be focussed on views of the seen in the context of the existing road and the roadside hedgerows and wildflower and meadow grassland seeding. As Grid Ref: intervening hedge. Looking along surrounding countryside, in this adjacent built form of the nearby Dyfi Eco Park. this planting matures it would be noticeable to the right of the view and SH 7439 the length of the Dyfi valley, the location, they would also be constantly The existing railing and the far lane of the would reduce visibility to the southern junction. 0169 distant backdrop is formed by the aware of the detracting presence of the very distant hills of Mynydd y adjacent trunk road and their proximity existing road would be removed to make way for The magnitude of change is predicted to be lowered slightly to a level at

Cemmaes. The valley sides, to Machynlleth and the Eco Park. Their a widened drainage ditch with soft banks. The the low end of the moderate category, with a corresponding drop in the formed by Pen yr Allt to the south susceptibility to changes in visual adverse effects above would be partially balanced significance levels as set out for each receptors to the right. and Bryn-coch to the northeast, amenity is medium to high. These out by the reduced width and soft verge to the foreshorten views to the right and receptors are considered to be highly existing A487, giving this route a character and left respectively. Another wooden sensitive. visual presence more in keeping with a rural lane used for recreational purposes and occasional pole mounted electricity line passes overhead to the right. vehicular access. The change would be permanent and irreversible resulting in a noticeable deterioration of the view. On balance, the magnitude of change to views from this location as a result of the operational phase is judged to be moderate. VP 13 Cyclists and Looking east and northeast from The visual amenity of People enjoying The Scheme would be partially visible, in the Slight to Where the proposed viaduct bisects existing field boundaries, replanting of Slight to pedestrians the A487 as it crosses the River the visual setting of this listed and middle distance, through gaps in existing moderate trees and hedgerows is designed to mitigate against the loss of vegetation. moderate using the A487 Dyfi on the Pont ar Ddyfi. The Scheduled historic asset and Cyclists vegetation. Much of the Scheme would be adverse As it matures this would help very slightly to further break up views of the adverse [R] (R4), NCN 8 foreground is dominated by the and pedestrians using NCN 8 and 82 obscured in summer and filtered in winter by the proposed viaduct. and 82 and the existing road and the bridge’s and the Wales Coast Path is nationally intervening vegetation. It would be seen in the The re-profiled drainage ditch along the eastern edge of the de-trunked Dist. 0m Wales Coast masonry parapet wall. The river important with views of high value. context of the existing road and the nearby built route has been designed to reduce the width and prominence of the Path on the Pont under the bridge is the focal point form of the Dyfi Eco Park further south. People crossing this bridge have to use existing road and to provide a soft edge with marginal and aquatic ar Ddyfi and of this view leading the eye into the carriageway due to the restricted The structure would be a simple construction of planting. As these mitigation measures mature they would break up and Grid Ref: people enjoying the middle distance of the view. width of the bridge. These. People, steel and concrete and its elevation is designed to soften middle distant views of the existing road and would reduce its SH 7441 the visual Fields and their overgrown travelling at slower speeds that the be as shallow as possible. The viaduct would be prominence. 0191 setting of the dividing hedgerows with mature traffic, would have their attention 3.2m from the bottom of the steel girders to the The magnitude of change is predicted to be lowered very slightly, but not Scheduled and trees are visible in the middle divided between views of the top of the guard railing. Listed Pont ar distance. This intervening to the extent that the magnitude of change would be re-categorised. There surrounding countryside and being The Scheme would occupy a small proportion of would be no noticeable change to the significance of residual visual effects Ddyfi vegetation obscures much of the constantly aware of the detracting site from view. The Millennium the view and the change would be small in scale, on these receptors. presence of the trunk road and the but still contrasting with key characteristics of the Bridge and the adjacent site of the dangers of crossing the narrow bridge. proposed river crossing is not view such as the river corridor, tree belts and the Their susceptibility to changes in visual backdrop of wooded hills. visible in summer but would be amenity is medium to high. These partly visible through the receptors are considered to be highly On the other hand, the existing A487 to the south riverside trees in winter. Distant sensitive. would be reduced in width, with a soft verge hills of Pen yr Allt and Coed along most of its eastern edge, to give it a

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) Residents in Pant-y-glo form the skyline The visual amenity of residents in the character and visual presence more in keeping Slight Slight nine nearby between and above the 9 properties at Pen-y-bont on the north with a rural lane used for recreational purposes adverse adverse properties (D, E intervening trees. A wooden pole side of the bridge and people enjoying and occasional vehicular access. The removal of and F) and mounted electricity line crosses views to and from these Listed traffic from Pont ar Ddyfi would enable people enjoying the middle distance. buildings is considered to be of high recreational users to better appreciate the views the visual value and of individual importance in and the setting of the bridge. settings of the the case of residents and national On balance, the magnitude of change to views nearby Listed importance in the case of Listed from this location as a result of the operational Buildings at Buildings. phase is judged to be adverse and minor. Pen-y-bont. All of the properties currently have views dominated by the existing road at close quarters. The two properties on the north bank of the river, immediately to the east of the Pont ar Ddyfi, also have open southerly views which are not degraded by the existing road. The susceptibility of these receptors to changes in their views is medium. The sensitivity of these residential receptors is assessed as moderate to high.

VP 14 Residents in a From this elevated south facing The visual amenity of residents in the The Scheme would be partially visible, in the Moderate Where the proposed viaduct bisects existing field boundaries, replanting of Moderate to property off the view overlooking the valley, the property are considered to be of high middle distance through gaps in existing tree belts to large trees and hedgerows is designed to mitigate against the loss of vegetation. large A487 to the east foreground is dominated by the value and of individual importance. and roadside vegetation. It would be seen in the adverse As it matures this would help very slightly to further break up views of the adverse [S] of Pen-y-bont. existing road and its roadside The foreground of the southerly view is context of the existing A439 and the built form of proposed viaduct. vegetation. The river is just dominated and restricted by the the Dyfi Eco Park. The magnitude of change is predicted to be lowered very slightly, but it is Dist. visible beyond the intervening existing roadside vegetation at close The structure would be a simple construction of unlikely that this would be sufficient to noticeably decrease the magnitude 250m vegetation. Fields and their quarters. The susceptibility of these steel and concrete and its elevation is designed to of change. There would be no noticeable change to the significance of overgrown dividing hedgerows receptors to changes in their views is be as shallow as possible. The viaduct would be residual visual effects on these receptors. with mature trees are visible in high. The sensitivity of this residential 3.2m from the bottom of the steel girders to the Grid Ref: the middle distance. This receptors is assessed as high. top of the guard railing. SH 7451 intervening vegetation obscures 0199 much of the site from view. The. The Scheme would be noticeable, occupying a Distant hills of Pen yr Allt form moderate proportion of the view, contrasting with the skyline between and above the key characteristics of the view but not affecting intervening trees. A wooden pole the undulating nature of the skyline. The mounted overhead cable cross the magnitude of change to views as a result of the view in the foreground. operational phase is judged to be moderate.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) VP 15 Footpath users An open panoramic view looking This viewpoint is on the southeast edge The built form associated with the new A487 part Neutral The proposed hedgerow and tree planting to the west of the southern Slight and anglers on east-southeast. The River Dyfi of the SNP, the visual amenity of of the Scheme would be barely visible in the junction would slightly reduce the amount of existing and proposed built beneficial the riverside dominates the foreground and to walkers and anglers using the route is distance of views from this part of the PRoW. It form visible in the middle distance to the right of the view. [R] PRoW (P5). the left of the view. The considered to be of national importance would be seen rising slightly towards the centre of The magnitude of positive change would increase, tipping the balance foreground elsewhere and the and high value. With their recreational the view and disappearing behind existing from neutral into the negligible beneficial category. This would result in a Dist. middle distance of the view is focus on enjoyment of the attractive vegetation to the left of the view. It would be barely perceptible beneficial effect on the residual visual amenity of users 300m dominated by open fields laid to rural setting, their susceptibility to experienced in the context of the existing road of this route. pasture. The wooded hills of Pen change is considered to be high. Thus and the built form of the Dyfi Eco Park beyond a

yr Allt and Bryn Tudor form a their sensitivity to changes in views is series of field hedges. Grid Ref: distant back drop to the southeast high. Traffic on the Scheme would be further from SH 7411 and the view extends further these receptors than it currently is on the existing 0179 along the flat rural River Dyfi A487. Traffic would no longer be seen crossing valley floor to the east. The Dyfi the existing Pont ar Ddyfi in the middle distance. Eco Park and the rail buildings around Machynlleth Station are Changes arising from the operational built form, partially visible above intervening occupying a minor proportion of the view, would hedgerows and trees below Pen yr be small scale, but would be permanent and Allt. irreversible. The beneficial effects of moving traffic being further away from the viewer, and no longer prominent on Pont ar Ddyfi, would balance out the adverse effects of introducing the barely visible viaduct structure. The magnitude of change to views from this receptor as a result of the operational phase is judged to be neutral.

VP 16 Road users on The foreground of this view is This route is a busy trunk road through The Scheme would be largely screened from view Neutral The proposed hedgerow and tree planting to the west of the southern Neutral to the A493 (R3). dominated by the road and the southern edge of SNP. It is of by intervening trees. The viaduct would be barely junction would slightly reduce the amount of existing and proposed built slight roadside post and wire fence national importance and visual amenity noticeable as a very small component in the form visible in the middle distance to the right of the view. beneficial [R] through which the nearest field is of medium value. Driver’s attention distance in the centre of the view. In winter the The magnitude of positive change would increase, tipping the balance just leads down to the tree-lined River would be focussed on the task of views towards the Scheme would be partially and into the negligible beneficial category. This would result in a barely Dist. Dyfi. The river is partially and driving along this fast section of road fleetingly visible from this location with the perceptible beneficial effect on the residual visual amenity of these 450m fleetingly visible in the middle on a bend. Eastbound travellers may backdrop of built form at the Dyfi Eco Park and receptors. distance of the view. Beyond the notice glimpsed and partial views of nearby rail infrastructure.

river and through gaps in the the river to the southeast. Views to the Traffic using the proposed Scheme would be Grid Ref: intervening mature trees, the south and east are of medium further from these receptors than it currently is on SH 7395 fields of the valley floor are susceptibility to change from the existing A487. 0171 visible leading to the distant hills construction activity. The sensitivity of north and northeast of these receptors is considered to be Changes arising from the operational phase would Machynlleth. The site is partially moderate. be small scale, occupying a very small proportion of the view but would be permanent and

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) Cyclists on visible as a tiny component in the Cyclists would be using this on-road irreversible. The beneficial impact of moving Neutral Slight NCN 8. middle to distant part of this view. section of NCN 8. This is a nationally traffic further away from the viewer would beneficial important route with views of high balance out the adverse effect of introducing the value. Cyclists travelling at slower barely visible sections of viaduct. speeds would divide their attention The magnitude of change to views as a result of between views of the surrounding the operational phase is judged to be neutral. countryside and the task of travelling along a fast road. Their susceptibility to changes in visual amenity is medium to high. These receptors are considered to be highly sensitive.

Residents of the The visual amenity of residents in the Neutral Slight dwelling at property and people enjoying views to beneficial Penrhyn Dyfi and from the nearby Listed buildings is and people considered to be of high value and of enjoying the individual importance in the case of visual settings residents and national importance in the of the nearby case of Listed Buildings. The Listed Buildings foreground of the southerly view is at Penrhyn Dyfi dominated and restricted by the existing roadside vegetation at close quarters. The front elevation of the property faces southeast towards Machynlleth. The susceptibility of these receptors to changes in their views is high. The sensitivity of this residential receptors is assessed as high.

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View- Receptors Description of Existing View Receptor Sensitivity Nature of Changes to View Effect at Landscape Mitigation Effect at point Represented During Operation Winter of Summer of (receptor ID on Year 1 Year 15 Figure 8.4) VP 17 Users of the The foreground of this elevated The visual amenity of walkers using From this elevated position the Scheme would be Slight to The proposed hedgerow and tree planting to the west of the southern Slight Wales Coastal view southeast over the valley is the nationally designated Wales noticeable against the backdrop of built form at moderate junction would slightly reduce the amount of existing and proposed built adverse Path, the nearby occupied by the lane and the Coastal Path and the OAL within SNP the Dyfi Eco Park, rail infrastructure and the form visible in the middle distance to the right of the view. [S] adverse Open Access adjacent post and wire mesh is of high value. This is one of the first north end of Machynlleth. The southern section of Replacement tree and hedgerow planting at the locations where the viaduct Land (OAL) at fence. The land drops away southerly views along the Wales the viaduct would be noticeable as a small crosses field boundaries would help slightly to integrate the Scheme into Dist. Foel-y-ffridd. steeply down to the river, with Coastal Path overlooking and component in the middle distance, rising slightly the landscape. As the proposed planting matures, the magnitude of positive 500m Two residential only a stand of mature trees and approaching the Dyfi valley and its to the left of the view. change would counteract some of the negative change On balance the dwelling at Penrhyn Dyfi crossing point when travelling towards properties Due to the recent felling of mature coniferous The coupled with the beneficial impact of moving traffic further away in accessed vial interrupting the view of the River Machynlleth. The susceptibility to plantation woodland at Foel –y-ffridd, the Grid Ref: the view and reducing the visual prominence of the existing route, the this road do not Dyfi. Beyond the river, middle changes in visual amenity of these northern end of the scheme would be visible from SH 7395 beneficial effects of the proposed mitigation would balance out some of have views of distant views extend over the flat receptors is high. These receptors are an additional part of the Open Access Land. The 0190 open fields of the floodplain, with considered to be highly sensitive. the adverse effects of introducing the new elevated structure. This would the relevant part area in question though is very steep and not result in a negligible magnitude of change. This would result in a barely of the valley). occasional mature hedgerow trees crossed by tracks or paths. Therefore the interrupting the otherwise regular perceptible slightly significant adverse residual effect on the visual frequency of receptors to views from this part of amenity of these receptors. filed pattern. Dyfi Eco Park and the hillside is expected to be very low. In addition the railway station built form is re planting of this area would preclude these visible below Pen yr Allt and the views as trees grow to obscure views over the western extent of Machynlleth nearest part of the Scheme. seen beyond. The Wooded hills south of Machynlleth and around The existing A487 would be reduced in width Penegoes form the distant with a soft verge along much of its east edge to backdrop. The mature coniferous give it a character and visual presence more in part of the forestry on the slopes keeping a rural lane used for recreational of Foel-y-ffridd above Pen-y-bont purposes and occasional vehicular access. Traffic has recently been felled, opening on the Scheme would be further from these up views from a small part of the receptors than it currently is on the existing A487. OAL towards the scheme. This is Changes arising from the operational phase would to be replanted as forestry which be small in scale, permanent and irreversible The would once more obscure views magnitude of change to views as a result of the of the Scheme from this part of Scheme is judged to be minor. the OAL as it establishes over a period of around 15 years. VP 18 People using the This open elevated view Views available to walkers using the Due to the intervening distance, the Scheme Slight As it matures, the proposed planting, concentrated at either end of the Slight PRoW in Open overlooks the Dyfi valley north of PRoW and Open Access Land are of would be barely perceptible as a small component adverse scheme would help to visually break up the linearity of the distant road adverse Access Land at Machynlleth from a distance. The local importance and high value. within the context of the existing built form and and viaduct and less of it would be visible. The proposed planting would [S] Mynydd foreground is occupied by the Walker’s attention would be focussed visible infrastructure. The operational phase also mitigate for the loss of vegetation due to construction works. Cynffyrch intervening hillside which drops to a considerable extent on the would result in barely discernible changes to the Due to the elevated position and distant location of the view, it is unlikely Dist. above steeply down to Derwenlas on the surrounding countryside and view. Therefore, the magnitude of change to this that the negligible magnitude of change would be reduced sufficiently to 3.5km Derwenlas. A487. The middle distance expectations on the quality of views view is judge to be negligible. decrease the significance of the effects from this viewpoint. comprises the Dyfi valley along this route would be high. The

surrounded on all sides in this view currently contains the railway line Grid Ref: view by the surrounding hills. and built form at Machynlleth. The SN 7185 The northwest edge of susceptibility and thus overall 9893 Machynlleth and the Dyfi Eco sensitivity of these receptors to changes Park are seen to the right of the in their view is high. valley. The River Dyfi and the Cambrian Railway Line are visible making their way across the valley floor. The view extends northeast to Bryn coch with a backdrop of more distant hills.

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