Land at Hoo St Werburgh LANDSCAPE and VISUAL APPRAISAL

Dean Lewis Estates

Land at Hoo St Werburgh

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL APPRAISAL

January 2018

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd Registered Office: Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby DE74 2RH Company No. 07128076. [T] 01509 672772 [F] 01509 674565 [E] [email protected] [W] www.fpcr.co.uk

This report is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without the written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd. Ordnance Survey material is used with permission of The Controller of HMSO, Crown copyright 100018896.

Rev Issue Status Prepared / Date Approved/Date

C ISSUE CA / 12.01.2018 CEH / 12.01.2018 B DRAFT CA / 21.12.2017 CEH / 21.12.2017 A DRAFT CA / 11.12.2017 CEH / 11.12.2017 - DRAFT CA / 30.11.2017 CEH / 30.11.2017 Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 2

2.0 METHODOLOGY ...... 3

3.0 PLANNING POLICY ...... 6

4.0 BASELINE CONDITIONS ...... 12

5.0 LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS ...... 36

6.0 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS ...... 38

7.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS ...... 46

FIGURES

Figure 1: Site Location Plan

Figure 2: Topography Plan

Figure 3: Landscape Character

Figure 4: Designations Figure 5: Aerial Photograph

Figure 6: Viewpoint Location Plan

Figure 7: Photo Viewpoints

APPENDICES

Appendix A: Methodology and Assessment Criteria

Appendix B: Landscape Character Assessments – Relevant Published Extracts

Appendix C: Landscape Effects Table

Appendix D: Visual Effects Table

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 This Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) has been carried out for the proposed development by FPCR Environment and Design Ltd (FPCR). The purpose of this LVA study is to provide an assessment of the likely landscape and visual effects of the proposed development. The landscape and visual effects have been considered in relation to the proposals detailed in the planning application and Design and Access Statement (DAS).

Site Location

1.2 The development proposals described within this report relate specifically to the Site. Land to the south of Stoke Road will be used to create a new surface water attenuation facility.

1.3 The Site is located on the eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh, Medway. The location of the proposed development Site is shown at Figure 1. An aerial photograph of the Site and surrounding context is provided at Figure 5.

Proposed Development

1.4 The proposed development comprises of high quality housing development of up to 65 dwellings and associated Public Open Space (POS) and Green Infrastructure (GI).

1.5 The development will be located as illustrated on Development Framework Plan, the design principles and proposed scheme have been set out in the accompanying DAS.

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2.0 METHODOLOGY

2.1 This LVA has been prepared based upon the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, third edition (GLVIA3), published by the Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, in 2013.

2.2 In summary, the GLVIA3 states:

“Landscape and Visual impact assessment (LVIA), is a tool used to identify and assess the significance of and the effects of change resulting from development on both landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity.” (GLVIA3 paragraph 1.1.)

2.3 There are two components of LVIA:

• “Assessment of landscape effects; assessing effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right;

• Assessment of visual effects: assessing effects on specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people.” (GLVIA3 paragraph 2.21.)

2.4 The components of this report include: baseline studies; description and details of the landscape proposals and mitigation measures to be adopted as part of the scheme; and identification and description of likely effects arising from the proposed development.

2.5 In terms of baseline studies, the assessment provides an understanding of the landscape in the area to be affected, its constituent elements, character, condition and value. For the visual baseline, this includes an understanding of the area in which the development may be visible, the people who may experience views, and the nature of views.

Assessment of Landscape Effects

2.6 GLVIA3 states that “An assessment of landscape effects deals with the effects of change and development on landscape as a resource” (GLVIA3 paragraph 5.1).

2.7 The baseline landscape is described by reference to existing published Landscape Character Assessments and by a description of the Site and its context.

2.8 A range of landscape effects can arise through development. These can include:

• Change or loss of elements, features, aesthetic or perceptual aspects that contribute to the character and distinctiveness of the landscape;

• Addition of new elements that influence character and distinctiveness of the landscape;

• Combined effects of these changes.

2.9 The characteristics of the existing landscape resource are considered in respect of the susceptibility of the landscape resource to the change arising from this development. The value of the existing landscape is also considered.

2.10 Each effect on landscape receptors is assessed in terms of size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. In terms of size or scale of change, the judgement takes account of the extent of the existing landscape elements that will be lost or changed, and the degree to which the aesthetic or perceptual aspects or key characteristics of the landscape will be altered by removal or addition of new elements.

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2.11 The level of effect is determined by considering the sensitivity of the landscape receptors and the magnitude of effect on the landscape. Final conclusions on the overall landscape effects are drawn from the assessment components described. This appraisal describes the nature of the landscape effects, and whether these are adverse or beneficial, at the following stages of development; construction, completion (year 1) and longer term (year 15).

2.12 The criteria used in the appraisal are set out in Appendix A.

Assessment of Visual Effects

2.13 An assessment of visual effects deals with the effects of change and development on the views available to people and their visual amenity. This appraisal describes the nature of the visual effects and, whether these are adverse or beneficial, at the following stages of development; construction, completion (year 1) and longer term (year 15).

2.14 The first stage in the assessment is to identify approximate visibility/ visibility mapping. This is done by either a computerised Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV)1, or by manual methods using map study and field evaluation. A series of viewpoints are included within the assessment that are representative of views towards the Site from surrounding visual receptors. Other views of the Site are included where it supports the description and understanding of the Site`s landscape and visual characteristics.

2.15 The views also typically represent what can be seen from a variety of distances from the development and different viewing experiences.

2.16 It is important to remember that visual receptors are all people. For each affected viewpoint, the assessment considers both susceptibility to change in views and the value attached to views.

“The visual receptors most susceptible to change are generally likely to include:

• Residents at home;

• People engaged in outdoor recreation, including use of public rights of way, whose attention or interest is likely to be focused on the landscape or particular views;

• Visitors to heritage assets or other attractions, where views of surroundings are an important contributor to the experience;

• Communities where views contribute to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents in the area;

Travellers on road, rail or other transport routes tend to fall into an intermediate category of susceptibility to change. Where travel involves recognised scenic routes awareness of views is likely to be particularly high.” (GLVIA3 paragraph 6.33.)

“Visual receptors likely to be less sensitive to change include:

• People engaged in outdoor sport or recreation which does not involve or depend upon appreciation of views of the landscape;

• People at their place of work whose attention may be focused on their work or activity, not on their surroundings.” (GLVIA3 paragraph 6.34.)

1 Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV): A map usually digitally produced, showing areas of land within which a development is theoretically visible. [GLVIA3]

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2.17 Each of the visual effects is evaluated in terms of its size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration or reversibility.

2.18 In terms of size or scale, the magnitude of visual effects takes account of:

• The scale of the change in the view with respect to the loss or addition of features in the view and changes in its composition, including proportion of the view occupied by the proposed development;

• The degree of contrast or integration of any new features or changes in the landscape with the existing or remaining landscape elements and characteristics in terms of form, scale and mass, line height, colour and texture;

• The nature of the view of the proposed development, in terms of the relative amount of time over which it will be experienced and whether views will be full, partial or glimpses.

2.19 The geographical extent of the visual effect in each viewpoint is likely to reflect:

• The angle of view in relation to the main activity of the receptor;

• The distance of the viewpoint from the proposed development;

• The extent of the area over which the changes would be visible.

2.20 As with landscape effects, the duration of the effect could be short to long term or permanent and the same definitions apply. The criteria used in this appraisal are set out in Appendix A.

Overall Landscape and Visual Effects

2.21 The final conclusions on effects, whether adverse or beneficial, are drawn from the separate judgements on the sensitivity of the receptors and the magnitude of the effects. This overall judgement is formed from a reasoned professional overview of the individual judgements against the assessment criteria.

2.22 GLVIA3 notes, at paragraphs 5.56 and 6.44, that there are no hard and fast rules with regard to the level of effects, therefore the following descriptive thresholds have been used for this appraisal:

• Major: A Major landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Moderate: A Moderate landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Minor: A Minor landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Negligible: A Negligible landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change.

2.23 Where it is determined that the assessment falls between or encompasses two of the defined criteria terms, then the judgement may be described as, for example, Major/ Moderate or Moderate/ Minor. This indicates that the effect is assessed to lie between the respective definitions or to encompass aspects of both.

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3.0 PLANNING POLICY

National Planning Policy

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF, 2012)

3.1 The NPPF sets out the Government’s planning polices for England and how these are expected to be applied. At the heart of the NPPF is the presumption in the favour of sustainable development. Paragraph 6 states:

“The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development.”

3.2 The three dimensions to delivering sustainable development are: economic, social and environmental.

• “an environmental role- contributing to protecting and enhancing our natural, built and historic environment; and, as part of this, helping to improve biodiversity, use natural resources prudently, minimise waste and pollution, and mitigate and adapt to climate change including moving to a low carbon economy.” (para 7)

3.3 The core planning principles include the following:

• “always seek to secure high quality design and a good standard of amenity for all existing and future occupants of land and buildings”;

• “take account of the different roles and character of different areas, promoting the vitality of our main urban areas, protecting the Green Belts around them, recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside and supporting thriving rural communities within it” (para 17)

3.4 The NPPF supports good design to enhance the quality of the built and natural environment.

“The Government attaches great importance to the design of the built environment. Good design is a key aspect of sustainable development, is indivisible from good planning, and should contribute positively to making places better for people” (para 56)

“Planning polices and decisions should aim to ensure that development:

• Establishes a strong sense of place, using streetscapes and buildings to create attractive and comfortable places to live, work and visit;

• Optimise the potential of the Site to accommodate development, create and sustain an appropriate mix of uses (including incorporation of green and other public space as part of developments) and support local facilities and transport networks;

• Respond to local character and history, and reflect the identity of local surroundings and materials, while not preventing or discouraging appropriate innovation; and

• Are visually attractive as a result of good architecture and appropriate landscaping” (para 58).

3.5 The NPPF seeks to conserve and enhance the natural environment – protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, and affording great weight to the protection of areas of natural and scenic beauty, such as National Parks, the Broads and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

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“The planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by: Protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, geological conservation interests and soils’” (para 109)

“Local planning authorities should set criteria based policies against which proposals for a development on or affecting protected wildlife or geodiversity Sites or landscape areas will be judged. Distinctions should be made between the hierarchy of international, national and locally designated Sites so that protection is commensurate with their status and gives appropriate weight to their importance and the contribution that they make to wider ecological networks (para 113)

Local planning authorities should:

• Set out a strategic approach in their Local Plans, planning positively for the creation, protection, enhancement and management of networks of biodiversity and green infrastructure;” (para 114)

Planning Practice Guidance (PPG, 2014)

3.6 The PPG came into force on the 6th March 2014 and is an online planning resource which provides guidance on the NPPF and the planning system. The NPPF continues to be the primary document for decision making.

Local Planning Policy

Adopted Local Plan – Medway Local Plan (1996-2006), Adopted May 2003

3.7 The Medway Local Plan was adopted in May 2003. The following ‘saved’ policies are of relevance to landscape and visual matters and the proposed development:

Policy S4 – Landscape and Urban Design Guidance

3.8 Owing to the wealth of historic buildings including Conservation Areas and a number of Scheduled Ancient Monuments throughout Medway, the council is concerned to ensure their maintenance and preservation. Towards this aim, the council seeks to ensure that modern buildings and development consider good quality design by promoting local distinctiveness and identity and draws upon the 1998 revision of “Kent Design Guide”.

3.9 The Policy states that:

“A high quality of built environment will be sought from new development, with landscape mitigation where appropriate. Development should respond appropriately to its context, reflecting a distinct local character.”

Policy BNE1 – General Principles for Built Development

3.10 This policy aims to ensure that all new developments within the District provide a satisfactory standard of accommodation and make a positive contribution to the public realm, particularly in terms of design and materials used.

3.11 To this effect, the policy states:

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“The design of development (including extensions, alterations and conversions) should be appropriate in relation to the character, appearance and functioning of the built and natural environment by:

(i) being satisfactory in terms of use, scale, mass, proportion, details, materials, layout and siting; and

(ii) respecting the scale, appearance and location of buildings, spaces and the visual amenity of the surrounding area; and

(iii) where appropriate, providing well structured, practical and attractive areas of open space.”

Policy BNE2 – Amenity Protection

3.12 This policy aims to ensure that new development takes into account public health and the environment, particularly quality of life. To this effect, the layout and orientation of buildings should reflect and maximise sunlight and respect privacy, etcetera. The council lends regard to the advice in “Kent Design” guide (2000) adopted as part of its supplementary planning guidance.

3.13 To this effect, the policy states, that:

“The council will, therefore, resist development which would result in damage to the amenity of those people occupying property close to new development.”

Policy BNE6- Landscape Design

3.14 This policy considers the importance of the design and quality of external landscape as integral to all new developments. As such, major developments should include a structural landscaping scheme, serving to enhance local character. Detailed landscaping schemes should be submitted prior to development and considers a number of factors that should be lent consideration including: access; ecology and biodiversity; amenity; and recreation, thereby facilitating regeneration and enhancing local character.

Policy BNE38 – Wildlife Corridors and Stepping Stones

3.15 Where feasible and furthering the purposes of policy BNE6, this policy states that new development should contribute towards enhancing the network of wildlife habitats through the creation of habitat links/ stepping stones and green corridors, aiding species migration and biodiversity.

3.16 Further to this, the policy recognises that pedestrian and cycle routes can be incorporated alongside green corridors, encouraging sustainable modes of transport.

3.17 To this effect the policy states:

“Such green corridors/stepping stones could accompany or be a part of routeways for new cycleways and footways created in the interests of sustainable transport.”

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Policy BNE34 – Areas of Local Landscape Importance (ALLI)

3.18 This policy identifies several areas of landscape that are described as enhancing local amenity and environmental quality, providing an attractive setting to the urban area and surrounding villages. They serve a variety of functions in addition to their landscape importance. The landscape character and functions of each of the designated ALLIs are protected by the policy.

3.19 The proposed development does not lie within an ALLI. The local landscape designation covers large areas of the landscape to the north-west and south-west of the Site. These areas include Deansgate Wood located approximately 1 km to the north / north-west of the Site adjacent to the A228 and Cockham Farm Ridge which extends east of Lower Upnor to Hoo St Werburgh along the northern shore of the River Medway, approximately 950m to the south-west of the Site.

3.20 This Policy goes on to state the important roles and functions these ALLIs serve.

Policy BNE44 – Trees and Development Sites

3.21 This policy extends the aims of BNE6 and considers the design of new development, seeking to minimise tree loss, retain trees of important amenity value and where feasible, provide additional tree planting, recognising its contribution to local character. To this effect the policy states: “Development should seek to retain trees, woodlands, hedgerows and other landscape features that provide a valuable contribution to local character.”

Policy H1 – New Residential Development

3.22 This policy sets out proposals for new housing development within the District and applies to Sites identified on the proposals map.

3.23 Land to the west of the Site forms part of a residential allocation. The Residential Allocation ME390 – East of Bell’s Lane, Hoo St Werburgh, with an overall capacity of the Site is 558.

Policy L3 – Protection of Open Space

3.24 A number of areas within the study area are covered by Policy L3 lie within the study area, the nearest located approximately 480m to the east of the Site to the south of the junction between Roper’s Lane and Stoke Road. As such, the proposals do not directly affect the locally designated open space.

Policy L4 – Provision of Open Space in New Residential developments

3.25 This policy considers the provision of new areas of open space as part of development proposals and sets out the relevant standards of provision. Provision depends upon the scale of development and is in accordance with NPFA standards of 2.4 hectares per 1000 population.

3.26 With regard to the design of open space, the policy states:

“The open space should be planned as an integral part of the development and be of an adequate size and design. It should have regard to its local context, enhance the environment and develop robust landscapes that can easily be maintained.”

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Policy L10 – Public Rights Of Way

3.27 This policy considers the Public Rights Of Way network and other important paths that pass through Medway including national trails, Long Distance routes and Recreational routes and the importance of these as a recreational resource and amenity value for residents and visitors.

3.28 With regard to development, the council seeks to keep PROWs open, maintaining the character and level of standards and access across the network, including extension to the network.

3.29 To this effect the policy states:

“Development which would prejudice the amenity, or result in the diversion or closure, of existing public rights of way will not be permitted, unless an acceptable alternative route with comparable or improved amenity can be provided.”

Medway Emerging New Local Plan 2012-2035)

3.30 The Council is currently preparing a new Local Plan, which will replace the 2003 Medway Local Plan.

3.31 The new Local Plan will cover a period up to 2035 and comprise a single document, containing strategic level and development management policies, land allocations, minerals and waste.

3.32 The new Local Plan will be adopted in 2019 following an independent examination by a planning inspector.

Neighbourhood Plan

3.33 A Neighbourhood Plan for Hoo St Werburgh has not been adopted nor in process of preparation.

Other Relevant Strategies, Guidelines or Documents

Medway Housing Standards (Interim) Adopted 2011

3.34 The document provides guidance on the main principles and minimum layout and space standards that will be expected in design of new housing and considers standards for the provision of open space within new developments, expanding upon the saved Local Plan policy L4 (Medway Local Plan adopted 2003).

The Kent Design Guide (n.d)

3.35 The Kent Design Guide serves as best practice guidance for the county. The Guide describes the character of the county and gives guidance for the design of buildings and landscape.

Medway Strategic Land Availability Assessment Main Report, November 2015

3.36 The Medway Strategic Land Availability Assessment Main Report, November 2015 forms an important part of the evidence base of the emerging Plan.

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3.37 Two parcels of land identified as available by the SHLAA relate to the Site and are referred to as Site reference 1043 ‘East of Whitehouse Farm, Hoo’ and 1044 ‘R/O Whitehouse Farm, Stoke Road, Hoo’.

3.38 Site 1043 ‘East of Whitehouse Farm, Hoo’ extends to 0.84 hectares, with a potential capacity for 9 residential units. The Site is referred to in the following terms:

“Poorly maintained static caravan Site possibly in use as temporary accommodation for agricultural workers. Access is through the agricultural building and not part of the Site.”

3.39 Site 1044 ‘R/O Whitehouse Farm, Stoke Road, Hoo’ extends 1.6 hectares, with a potential capacity for 47 residential units. The Site is referred to as follows:

“Site comprised of a field, currently in use as a paddock. Mature oak tree at the centre. Boundaries are vegetation except the road frontage, which is a fence. Site is particularly environmentally/visually sensitive with a clearly defined boundary. Surrounding area is of a rural residential character.”

3.40 The SHLAA does not identify any constraints in terms of landscape for either Site, stating:

“Site is situated within built up area. Development is unlikely to have a detrimental impact upon the locally valued landscapes.”

3.41 The main constraints impinging upon the Sites relate to sustainable location and considers that both Sites have poor access to services and facilities as well as poor access to public transport opportunities.

3.42 With regards to visual amenity, Site reference 1043 ‘East of Whitehouse Farm, Hoo’ considers the impact upon the amenity of nearby residents, stating:

“The Site has the potential to impact upon amenity of nearby residential properties. Whilst this is likely to be resolvable through sensitive design, it is likely this would have implications for Site capacity.”

3.43 Both Sites are considered unsuitable for development “unless identified constraints can be addressed.”

3.44 In landscape and visual terms, the two SHLAA Sites are judged to be within built up area and as such development is unlikely to have a detrimental impact upon the locally valued landscapes. The report considered that potential impacts upon the amenity of nearby residential properties identified could be addressed through sensitive design and regard to Site capacity.

Policy Summary

3.45 The Site is not covered by any local designations and its development would not result in the loss of any green space forming part of the existing network and / or provision.

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4.0 BASELINE CONDITIONS

Landscape Character

National Character

4.1 National Character Area (NCA) profiles have been prepared by Natural England for the 159 NCA`s defined across England. These NCA profiles include a description of the natural and cultural features that shape the landscape, how the landscape has changed over time, the current key drivers for ongoing change, and a broad analysis of each area’s characteristics. Figure 3 illustrates the NCA`s and other defined character areas within the context of the Site.

4.2 At this very broad landscape scale, the Site, lies wholly within Natural England's National Character Area (NCA) 113 ‘North Kent Plain’. Extracts from the profile of this NCA are included at Appendix B. This NCA covers the strip of land between the Thames Estuary to the north and the chalk of the Kent Downs to the south. It covers an extensive tract of landscape between Ramsgate to the east, Orpington and Dartford to the west and Grain to the north. Under Key Characteristics the NCA description includes the following references which are relevant to the Site and its context; • “An open, low and gently undulating landscape, characterised by high quality, fertile, loamy soils dominated by agricultural land uses.

• Large arable/horticultural fields with regular patterns and rectangular shapes predominating, and a sparse hedgerow pattern.

• Orchards and horticultural crops characterise central and eastern areas, and are often enclosed by poplar or alder shelterbelts and scattered small woodlands.

• Woodland occurs on the higher ground……and in smaller blocks to the west, much of it ancient and of high nature conservation interest.

• The Stour and its tributaries are important features of the eastern part of the NCA, draining eastwards into the North Sea, with associated wetland habitats including areas of grazing marsh, reedbeds, lagoons and gravel pits. The River Medway cuts through the NCA as it flows into the Thames Estuary.

• Other semi-natural habitats include fragments of neutral, calcareous and acid grassland, and also heathland.

• The area has rich evidence of human activity from the Palaeolithic period. Key heritage assets include Roman Sites at Canterbury, Reculver and Richborough; the Historic Dockyard at Chatham; military remains along the coast; and historic parks and buildings.

• Large settlements and urban infrastructure (including lines of pylons) are often visually dominant in the landscape, with significant development around Greater London and the Medway Towns, as well as around towns further east and along the coast. Major rail and road links connect the towns with London.”

4.3 The profile for (NCA) 113 ‘North Kent Plain’ includes a number of Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEO). SEO 4 is of particular relevance to the Site and proposals and states:

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“Protect and enhance the strong character and heritage of the urban areas. Plan for the creation of significant new areas of green space and green corridors to provide a framework for new and existing development in urban areas and along major transport routes.”

The Landscape Assessment of Kent (October, 2004)

4.4 The Landscape Assessment of Kent has been undertaken at a County level. Local character areas have previously been identified across the county. These are described in 8 reports, relating to 8 Landscape Character Types (LCTs) that are collectively referred to as the Landscape Assessment of Kent. These reports further subdivided these into 114 discrete areas, loosely related to Landscape Character Areas (LCAs).

4.5 The Site lies wholly within ‘Thames Gateway: Hoo Peninsula’, described as;

“The Hoo Peninsula is a discrete tract of landscape lying between the Thames and Medway estuaries and bounded at its western end by the urban edge of Gravesend and the North Downs at Shorne. Land uses are generally typical of other parts of the North Kent Agricultural Belt but a distinctive character results from its relative geographical isolation and the pervading influence of the coast and sea. The extensive coastal marshes and significant industrial landmarks of Grain and Kingsnorth are also influences on the character of this otherwise predominantly agricultural area.”

4.6 The Key Characteristics of the ‘Hoo Peninsula’ are described as;

• “Prominent hills and low-lying alluvial marshes.

• Flat/undulating farmland. Decline in orchards and mixed farmland with shelterbelts.

• Intensive, open farmed arable land. Intrusive influence of industrial development.”

Hoo Peninsula

4.7 The characteristic features of this area are identified as:

“Prominent hills and low-lying alluvial marshes. Flat/undulating farmland. Decline in orchards and mixed farmland with shelterbelts. Intensive, open farmed arable land. Intrusive influence of industrial development”.

4.8 The area is considered to be in poor condition and the following is noted:

“There is very little coherent landscape pattern here. Visual detractors in the landscape occur on a large scale (industrial horizon) and detailed scale (industrial farm buildings). Isolated patches of woodland provide clusters of semi-natural habitat, but there is very little opportunity for ecological interest within the open arable fields. The occasional large brick farmhouse and the nature of the alluvial marshland augments the cultural and functional integrity of the area, but overall it is considered to be weak”.

4.9 The area is of moderate sensitivity:

“The historic framework to this landscape is mainly indistinct. The highways retain some characteristic features. Brick farmsteads, and isolated development associated with the railways

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contribute to local distinctiveness in a minor capacity. The sense of place is considered to be weak. The contrast of the low hills against the surrounding marshland is an apparent feature in the open view. Views are long and visibility is high”.

4.10 Overall the actions for the area are restore and create and considers the following:

• “Create new ecological/recreational resources such as regenerative woodland in farmland;

• Restore small pockets of heritage landscape around existing settlement; and

• Restore the physical coherence of the coastal marshland.”

4.11 The area to the south of the Site falls within the ‘Thames Gateway: Medway Marshes’, described as;

“The Medway Marshes are typically low lying and flat, with huge open skies and extensive views. To the north of the river, the marshes are dominated by the massive industrial complexes of Grain and Kingsnorth which sit in grand isolation amidst open marshland. This contrasts markedly with the more confined and 'hectic' industrial marshland landscapes of parts of the Thames Marshes and the more tranquil, pastoral landscape of the Swale Marshes. The southern Medway Marshes are much smaller and fragmented and have a much less coherent character.”

4.12 The key characteristics of the ‘Medway Marshes’ are described as; • “Low-lying and flat fragments of marshland with extensive views, dominated by industrial complexes to the north of the river;

• The southern marshes are less coherent. Some coastal grazing marsh and salt marsh, some coastal smaller and walls, creeks and dykes;

• Historical military features.”

4.13 The area is considered to be in poor condition and the following is noted:

“There are also many visual detractors within the area, including industrial lighting and residential development amongst others… Large scale industrial building and recent residential form has a high negative impact, however, some creeks remain relatively tranquil and retain their cultural links with the waterside. The condition of the area is considered to be poor”.

4.14 The area is of moderate sensitivity:

“The low-lying, flat nature of the fragments of marshland is apparent in the open view, and visibility is high”.

4.15 The overall actions for the area are restore and create.

Kent Historic Landscape Characterisation (May 2001)

4.16 Kent Historic Landscape Characterisation of Kent has been undertaken at the county level and includes the area presently covered by the unitary Medway authority, excluding the London Boroughs.

4.17 This approach contributes and enhances conventional landscape characterisation by “recognising the ways in which the present physical landscape reflects how people have exploited, changed and adapted to the physical environment through time, with respect to different social, economic, technological and cultural factors.”

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4.18 The report identifies thirty-two Historic Landscape Character Areas (HLCAs) and represent groupings and patterns of identifiable HLTs.

4.19 The report considers the grading of reliability of each HLCA and reflects the cohesiveness of the HLCA’s definition but does not reflect the value, significance or importance of the landscape character of the area.

4.20 The Site is wholly encompassed by Historic Landscape Character Area (HLCA) 13 – Hoo Peninsula and given a reliability grading of 4 indicating a good level of internal homogeneity and definable character.

4.21 HLCA 13 - Hoo Peninsula is described as:

“An obvious and well-defined area of distinctive historic landscape. The area is bounded by on three sides by natural HLTs, namely coastal types.

The peninsula is characterised by irregular fields bounded by tracks, roads and paths (HLT 1.14), with a scattering of other types including orchards (HLT 3.1), urban settlement (HLT 9.6), coppice woodland (HLTs 4.8–4.9) and Recreational areas (HLTs 10.1–10.3, 11.1–11.3). The area has an extremely well-defined set of boundaries, for the most part surrounded by coastal types and reclaimed marshland. There is a strong character boundary between the peninsula and the neighbouring land, HLCA 12 (Rochester / Chatham Hinterland).”

4.22 Further to this the Site lies within Historic Landscape Type (HLT) 1.14 – Irregular Fields Bounded by Roads, Tracks and Paths, characteristics of which are described as follows:

“Typically large enclosures bounded by wavy roads, tracks and other public rights of way.”

Medway Landscape Character Assessment (March 2011)

4.23 The Medway Landscape Character Assessment has been undertaken at a District level. It divides the landscape of the District into 6 Principle Landscape Character Areas, broadly matching areas identified within The Landscape Assessment of Kent (2004).

4.24 The Site lies within the ‘Hoo Peninsula’ Principle Landscape Character Area.

4.25 The key characteristics of the Hoo Peninsula Character Area (KCA) pertinent to the study area, include:

• “Predominantly agricultural area links to extensive tracts of marshland along north, south and eastern edges; central clay ridgeline with woodland to upper slopes forms central backbone and creates visual barrier between north and south.

• Broad leaved woodland (much of it protected with ancient woodland and SSSI designations) forms significant landscape feature; notable and distinctive elements include extensive woodlands around Chattenden Ridge, at Beacon Hill and Cockham Wood and the RSPB Reserve at Northward Hill

• Three dominant rural landscape types – 1) flat or undulating arable farmland – large open arable fields with long views 2) mixed farmland with orchards and shelter belts – smaller fields with stronger sense of containment 3) isolated wooded or farmed hills

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

• Includes large areas of grade 1 agricultural farmland, open, often remote and isolated but fragmented in places by roads, dispersed settlements, industrial areas, power and rail lines; includes significant areas of urban-rural and industrial transition – particularly to south at Kingsnorth and Hogmarsh Valley

• Includes most of the principal rural settlements on the Peninsula, as well as scattered farms and smaller settlements

• Includes a number of RSME Sites; notably Lodge Hill Site identified for development as a new, mixed-use settlement

• Role of countryside of Hoo Peninsula (farmland, woodland and villages) to provide a rural green buffer between the protected areas of the Thames and Med-way estuaries and the urban settlements of Medway.”

4.26 The report highlights a number of principle issues and opportunities relating to the Hoo Peninsula Character Area (LCA), including:

• “Loss of landscape structure and fragmentation caused by infrastructure (industry, roads, pylons etc); change of land use – loss of orchards, shelter belts and hedgerows; trend towards larger arable fields; equine related land uses; impact of suburban-style developments with ill-considered and weak edge treatments

• Intrusiveness and adverse visual and landscape character impact of overhead power lines which run through several farmland character areas

• Proximity of rural settlements; poor quality edge treatments; intrusion of urban-rural fringe activities (often prominent in views from main roads) into countryside; trend towards loss of rural character with threat of settlement coalescence and loss of local distinctiveness

• Introduction of unsightly crop protection structures (e.g. polytunnels, plastic crop mulches); insensitive structures, building styles and use of inappropriate materials and finishes

• Overall loss of biodiversity from trend towards larger field patterns, lost hedgerows and shelter belts; increasing suburbanisation of road corridors and settlement edges

• Potential to strengthen landscape character and bio-diversity value by improving habitat network; including restoration of hedgerows and shelter belts and enlargement of woodland areas

• Wider scale accessibility links fragmented (off-road footpaths and cycleways) – Saxon Shore Way links Cliffe, High Halstow and Hoo St Werburgh but poor connections north out to Marshes and east to-wards Allhallows, Stoke and Grain; poor links from urban areas (e.g. Medway City Estate) out to wider countryside

• Opportunity to strengthen landscape structure, improve landscape condition and accessibility; remove and screen adverse urban-rural fringe impacts; co- ordinate and link enhancements with overall strategic framework and development plans for major new schemes on Peninsula

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

• Opportunity to strengthen woodland structure across peninsula; especially through linking up Ancient Woodland fragments into larger blocks of SSSI wood-land”

4.27 Each Principle Landscape Character Area is further sub divided into Character Areas. The Site lies wholly within ‘11: Hoo Peninsula Farmland’ Character Area and consists of “open arable farmland to the central part of peninsula.”

4.28 This is one of the larger character areas identified in the assessment. Under description the assessment notes:

• “Location – open arable farmland to central part of peninsula – Cooling in north west; Allhallows to north east; Hoo St Werburgh to south and Cliffe Woods to south west.

• Geology – Lenham Beds and Thanet formation to west; London clay to east

• Soils – predominantly grade 1 agricultural with pockets of grade 3

• Accessibility – local paths link settlements but lacks strong east west axis

• Designations – predominantly white land (open countryside); includes rural lane; SLA: ALLI; Ancient Woodland

• Flood – predominantly outside flood zone (2003)”.

4.29 Characteristics of the area are identified as:

• “Undulating predominantly arable farmland with large open fields and little sense of enclosure; extensive views from higher ground towards estuaries

• Weak landscape structure, lack of distinctiveness and overall coherence

• Field boundaries – mixed fences and hedges – sparse and poorly managed hedgerows, isolated trees and blocks of woodland (often around farm buildings)

• Many detracting features – poor quality edges to farms and settlements with discordant conifers, roads (notably A228), railway, signs, telephone lines and pylons/power lines; industrial areas at Grain and Kingsnorth often prominent in views to south and east

• Two large remnant orchards along A228 – at Deangate and Fenn Street”

4.30 The area is identified as being in poor condition and of moderate sensitivity. Actions for the area are to restore and create. A series of detailed guidelines for the area include the following (amongst others):

• “Strengthen landscape structure and seek to improve image of area with new hedgerows (particularly along major roads, screening of settlement edges and detracting features; seek to achieve sensitive harmonisation of built development and countryside.

• Strengthen and increase biodiversity value – woodland, hedgerows and wider field margins.

• Seek to strengthen and enhance access opportunities, particularly in the light of major planned new development at Lodge Hill.

• Resist suburbanisation to villages and small settlements (particularly along road side edges); encourage planting of native locally found species to reflect and reinforce rural character –

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

note general principles within Kent Downs AONB Landscape Design Handbook guidance on designing and specifying sensitive boundary treatments.

• New development proposals should respect and enhance biodiversity and local distinctiveness.

• Protect separation, rural character and openness of countryside between villages at Cliffe Woods, Hoo, High Halstow, Stoke, Lower Stoke and Allhallows.”

4.31 The Site lies adjacent to ‘12: Lower Stoke Farmland’ Character Area, described as having the following characteristics:

• “Wedge of open undulating arable farmland; medium scale; more diverse, varied and enclosed than Hoo Peninsula farmland character area;

• Borders Medway Marshes with aspect towards Med-way Estuary and industrial complexes at Grain and Kingsnorth; industry and large pylons have strong and distinctive impact on character and views;

• Railway line and Kingsnorth industrial complex forms strong southern edge.”

4.32 The area is identified as being of moderate condition and of moderate sensitivity. Actions for the area are to conserve and create.

Landscape Designations

4.33 Figure 4 illustrates the location of landscape and other designations.

4.34 The Site and study area is not constrained by landscape designations such as National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

4.35 The Site and surrounding context do not fall under Medway Council’s former Special Landscape Areas (SLA) designation. Medway adopted a Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) in March 2011, which provides an evidence base to inform decisions on planning applications in the countryside and urban fringe. This supersedes the SLA and sets out a framework for protecting and enhancing the character and function of the area’s distinct landscapes.

4.36 Two Areas of Local Landscape Importance designated at the local level, encompasses large areas of land located to the north-west and south-west of the Site and include Deansgate Wood and Cockham Farm Ridge, respectively.

Several sporadic pockets of land located within the study area and covered by Policy L3 – Protection of Open Space of the adopted Local Plan are located within the study area, the closest of which is located to the east of the Site along Stoke Road.

4.37 The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Green Belt lies outside of the study area at considerable distance to the Site encompassing expansive tracts of landscape to the west and south of the district.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

4.38 No Scheduled Monuments or Listed Buildings fall within the immediate context of the Site. The nearest heritage assets consist of four Grade II Listed Pillboxes located at some distance to the north-west of the Site.

4.39 A number of ecological designations lie within the study area and include several areas of Nature Conservation Importance, afforded international and national protection. To the south and east of the Site lies Medway Estuary and Marshlands designated as a SSSI, SPA and Ramsar. To the north-west of the Site lies Chattenden Woods and Lodge Hill SSSI, and to the south-west of the Site lies Tower Hill to Cockham Wood SSSI. In addition, the Site lies within SSSI Impact Zone associated with Medway Estuary and Marshes SSSI.

Topography

4.40 The following should be read in conjunction with Figure 2.

Context - Landform

4.41 In the wider context to the south and east, landform remains relatively flat descending gently towards the River Medway. To the north and west of the Site, landform becomes increasingly undulated as it rises towards the A228 and Deansgate Ridge, reaching several high points of 70m AON within the local landscape in this direction.

Site – Landform

4.42 Landform across the Site generally slopes gently in a south-easterly direction from a high point of approximately 21.5m AON at the north-west corner of the Site to 13.75m AON where the Site meets Stoke Road.

4.43 Similarly, ‘Land to the south of the Site’ sits within south-easterly sloping land to the south of Stoke Road, lying between 10m AOD and 8m AOD with a low point of 8.02m AOD to south-east corner of the parcel.

Site and Immediate Context

4.44 An assessment of the landscape character of the Site and its immediate context has been carried out, providing a finer level of assessment than the published studies.

4.45 The Site is situated on the Hoo Peninsula to the north of the River Medway, located to the east of the built-up area associated with Hoo St Werburgh and comprises part of the wider agricultural field system.

4.46 The centre of Hoo St Werburgh is situated to the west of the Site between Main Street / Church Street.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

4.47 To the north and west of the Site, the landscape is predominately represented by agricultural land transected by the railway line and surrounding road corridors. Built up areas associated with industry and residential land uses include Kingsnorth to the east and High Halstow to the north.

4.48 Farm land extends to the south of the Site beyond Stoke Road, comprising remnant orchard planting, including over mature fruit trees and scrub. Landform to the south starts to flatten out as it meets with the River Medway, Hoo Marina Park and Vicarage Lane industrial estate.

4.49 To the west lies the built-up area associated with Hoo St Werburgh, beyond which lies Chattenden and Wainscott, connected by Peninsula Way and separated by agricultural land and areas of woodland cover.

4.50 Chattenden Barracks and Deansgate Ridge Golf Course are located to the north-west of the Site within a considerable area of woodland cover.

4.51 The Site is located to the north of Stoke Road on the eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh, and adjoins a site with consent for residential development at Street Farm. The Site lies on the edge of the village and measures 2.79 hectares and includes several parcels of land.

4.52 The proposed development site, referred to as the ‘Site’ within this report, lies to the north of Stoke Road and comprises two parcels, one divided into paddocks for horses and the other used for motorhome and caravan storage. A parcel of farmland located at some distance to the south- east of the proposed development and Stoke Road, namely ‘Land to the south of the Site’ containing remnant orchard planting including over mature fruit trees and scrub, will be used to create a surface water attenuation basin. Land to the south of Stoke Road located directly adjacent to the Site’s southern boundary with Stoke Road will be used for minor Highways improvements in order to accommodate the visibility splays associated with the Site access.

4.53 The Site is bound extensively by post and rail and post and wire fencing. Further features that define the Site and its boundaries include:

• Several residential properties are located along its boundary with Stoke Road and include a single detached residential property and White House Farm and its associated agricultural buildings. The built form serves to separate the Site from the landscape to the south.

• Existing vegetation runs along the northern and western boundaries serving to lend a level of enclosure from the agricultural landscape to the north. An outgrown row of dense tree planting runs north to south through the centre of the Site, separating the two field compartments and serving to enclose its eastern portion from the residences and landscape to the west.

• An existing mature tree lies within the eastern parcel associated with the Site and serves as a distinguishing Site feature.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

• TV masts and associated structures are located in the adjoining field parcel to the east of the Site separated by post and rail fencing.

• The southern boundary with Stoke Road is relatively open, defined by post and rail fencing and a short section of hedgerow, beyond which lies agricultural land flattening out towards the River Medway in the south.

4.54 ‘Land to the south of the Site’ within which the proposed attenuation feature will be located, comprises remnant orchard including over mature fruit trees and scrub planting.

4.55 Land located directly adjacent to the Site’s southern boundary and to the south of Stoke Road comprises grass verge and 1.6m high hedgerow planting as well as a section of 1.5m high post and wire fencing. Directly south of this lies a parcel of remnant orchard used as grazing land for horses and including a number of mature fruit trees and scrub vegetation.

Landscape Value

4.56 In terms of "landscape value" it is appropriate to examine the role of the Site and its immediate context in terms of the range of local factors set out in the GLVIA3 (Box 5.1, page 84), and summarised in the methodology. This considers the landscape in terms of a range of factors as set out below. As a starting point, landscape designations have been considered.

4.57 Landscape Designations: The Site is not subject to any national, local or other landscape designations. However, there are two large areas of landscape locally designated as Areas of Local Landscape Importance (ALLI), namely Deansgate Wood and Cockham Farm Ridge which lie approximately 1km north-west and approximately 700m south-west of the Site, respectively.

4.58 Landscape Quality (Condition):

4.59 The Site comprises two parcels, the eastern parcel is divided into paddocks for horses and the western parcel is currently used for motorhome and caravan storage.

4.60 The horse paddocks were assessed by the accompanying ecology report as being of a species poor semi-improved condition, comprising common and widespread species. The hedgerows and trees present vary in condition and are mostly restricted to its boundaries. However, a section of tree and hedgerow planting traverses the interior of the Site, serving to separate it into two field parcels. This appeared unmaintained and sparse in places and was assessed as retention category C having limited arboricultural value overall. Further to this, there is a large tree within the eastern field parcel, assessed by the arboricultural study as having moderate quality and therefore retention category B. This will be retained and incorporated into the landscape proposals.

4.61 Land to the south of the Site within which the proposed attenuation feature will be located, included a number of fruits trees of early and semi mature proportions and forming part of a larger orchard group of low quality. A number of these fruit trees will be removed in order to accommodate the attenuation feature. However, any removal will be mitigated against as part of the overall landscape proposals for the development.

4.62 Three hedgerows located along Stoke Road adjacent to the development site, will be removed in order to accommodate the minor highway works required to facilitate the access road into the proposed development. New hedgerow planting as part of the wider landscape proposals for the

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

Site will be provided to replace hedgerow removed. The hedgerows are of low arboricultural quality as they are sporadic and gappy in places.

4.63 Scenic Quality: Though parts of the Site permit long distance glimpses towards the River Medway and landscape to the south, the character of the Site itself is also influenced by its settlement edge location. The Site is further influenced by the presence of residential development located along its southern boundary with Stoke Road. This results in a degree of inter-visibility with properties adjacent to the Site’s boundaries.

4.64 ‘Land to the south of the Site’ comprises unmanaged remnant orchard represented by over mature fruit trees and scrub planting. The proposals will see the removal of a number of over mature fruit trees and scrub grassland associated with the now redundant orchard planting, with the creation with an attenuation basin and will not significantly reduce the overall scenic quality within this part of the landscape.

4.65 Rarity and Representativeness: The Site comprises two parcels, the eastern parcel is divided into paddocks for horses and the western parcel is currently used for motorhome and caravan storage.

4.66 Landscape features are limited to hedgerows and trees along its boundaries as well as a dense linear belt of tree planting which traverses the interior of the Site. A mature tree is located within the eastern parcel.

4.67 Land to the south of the Site is used for horse grazing and includes a number of fruits trees of early and semi mature proportions and forming part of a larger orchard group. These are of low quality as they have been subject to horse browsing.

4.68 The Site can be considered to be representative of the Landscape Character Area in which it sits, namely ‘11: Hoo Peninsula Farmland’. However, the Site represents only a small area of land within the wider character area and contains many detracting features pertaining to its urban edge location. Therefore, it can be considered that the landscape comprising the Site is not particularly rare and is influenced by urban edge land uses and associated landscape features.

4.69 Conservation Interest: The habitat on Site includes horse paddocks, referred to as parcel 1 by the accompanying Ecology Appraisal assessed by the ecology report as being of a species poor semi-improved condition, comprising common and widespread species. Other habitats within the Site include, field boundary hedgerow and tree planting to the Site’s perimeter. Further to this there is a large mature tree within the eastern Site parcel and a section of linear tree and hedgerow planting which traverses running north to south between the two Site parcels comprising the Site.

4.70 Landscape to the south of the Site, including the area of land located immediately south of Stoke Road associated with proposed minor highway works, are referred to as Parcels 2 and 3 in the Ecology Appraisal prepared by KB Ecology Ltd (December 2007) accompanying this report. The assessment draws upon the Integrated Habitat System (IHS) classification in the Kent Habitat Survey 2012 and describes Parcels 2 and 3 as ‘Improved grassland’. Further to this the report states: “the land consists of horse paddocks, with some fruit tree, short lengths of hedges, small timber horse shelters, a dry ditch and strips of ruderal vegetation along the road and access track to the East.”

4.71 A number of habitats and species were surveyed with regards to the Site. A number of ponds with Great Crested Newt activity (GCN) lie within 500m of the Parcels 1, 2 and 3. However, the

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

assessment considered the presence of GCNs on site to be highly unlikely such that no further surveys and mitigation measures were deemed necessary. With regards to reptiles, lizards were found to be present along the northern hedgerow boundary of Parcel 1. However, the proposals would unlikely effect this hedgerow. Reptiles were also present under ruderal vegetation and in the location of the proposed attenuation basin. As such suitable mitigation measures would be required. With regards to birds, the assessment considered that the site has a high potential to support breeding birds within the trees, and hedges. No Hazel Dormice nor badger presence or activity was recorded during the survey.

4.72 With regards to bats, no bats nor signs of bats were found during the internal/external inspection of the buildings. The open barns are single skin corrugated asbestos barns, judged as offering negligible potential for roosting bats. None of the trees present in Parcel 1 offered potential for roosting bats but one tree present in Parcel 3 offered high suitability for roosting bats due to the presence of a cavity (though no bats were found during the site visit). The site is likely to be used by foraging and commuting bats.

4.73 Other species likely to be found on Site include hedgehogs, rabbits, moles, voles and foxes. All mammals are afforded protection against unnecessary suffering by the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996.

4.74 The Archaeological Desk Based Assessment prepared by CgMs Consulting (December 2017) found that there are no designated archaeological assets that lie within or in close proximity to the Site. However, the Site does lie within an ‘Area of Archaeological Potential’ for the ‘Hoo St Werburgh to Lodge Hill line of Pillboxes’ associated with the World War Two stop line which crosses the north east corner of the northern parcel of the Site. However, no earth works remain on Site and the World War Two pillbox is no longer on site. The report considers that the proposed development has the potential to impact archaeological remains of no more than a local significance.

4.75 Overall, the Site can be considered to have limited conservation interest.

4.76 Recreational Value: The Site is not currently accessible to the public. A Public Right of Way (PROW) lies to the west of the Site, serving to connect the Site to the village centre and a further PRoW lies to the east, namely the Saxon Shore Way, serving to connect the Site to the wider PROW network and countryside beyond.

4.77 Perceptual Aspects and Associations: There are no significant associations linked to the Site. The majority of the Site, particularly to the east feels rather open and featureless. However, feelings of enclosure increase slightly towards the northern and western boundaries of the Site due to existing boundary vegetation and the presence of built form. There is a degree of intervisibility from the existing residential properties bounding the Site to the south and west, resulting in urban edge influences.

4.78 Land to the south of the Site is generally well contained by existing boundary features and tree planting which serves to limit intervisibility with sensitive receptors in the surrounding landscape.

4.79 In conclusion and having appraised the above factors it is judged that the Site and the immediate landscape is of medium to low landscape value.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

Visual Baseline

4.80 A visual appraisal has been undertaken for the Site. This has explored the nature of the existing visual amenity of the area and sought to establish the approximate visibility of the Site from surrounding locations and receptors. A series of photo viewpoints have been selected which support this analysis.

4.81 Photographs have been taken to illustrate a view from a specific vantage point, or to demonstrate a representative view for those receptors that are moving through the landscape, e.g. Public Rights of Way (PRoW) users. The photographs may demonstrate varying degrees of visibility and include both short and long-range views. The photographs were taken on the 20th April 2017 and on the 31st of October 2017. Seasonal differences have been taken account of when determining the visual effects on these receptors.

Photo Viewpoints

4.82 An assessment of the likely visual effects of the proposed development upon surrounding receptors is detailed in the subsequent section. Figure 7 details the location of the Photo Viewpoints and Figures 8-17 illustrates the photo viewpoints. They are briefly described below.

Viewpoint 1

4.83 This viewpoint represents vehicular and pedestrian users travelling east along Stoke Road taken opposite the dwellings to the west of the Site, looking north-east towards the Site.

4.84 In the foreground, views are dominated by the road corridor, associated footways and vegetation associated with adjacent field systems either side of Stoke Road.

4.85 To the left of the view can be discerned housing and associated boundary features to the north of Stoke Road and west of the Site.

4.86 In the middle distance to the centre of the view can be discerned the single dwelling house and associated boundary wall located along the Site’s southern boundary with Stoke Road. The telecommunication mast located within the field parcel immediately east of the Site is visible on the skyline.

4.87 Similarly, to the centre left of the view, glimpses of the roofline and white wash walls of White House Farm can be glimpsed through breaks in the intervening vegetation and built form on Stoke Road.

4.88 To the centre and right of the viewpoint, views along the road corridor continue eastwards terminated in views of vegetation located to the east of the telecommunication mast.

Viewpoint 2A

4.89 This viewpoint represents pedestrian and vehicular users of Stoke Road as it runs directly adjacent to the Site’s southern boundary, and looks north towards the Site.

4.90 In the foreground, views are dominated by the road corridor as it passes adjacent to the Site’s boundaries comprising predominately post and rail fencing as well as a metal access gate and scrub vegetation.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

4.91 To the left of the viewpoint, views continue along the road corridor parallel to which runs the pedestrian footpath and grass verge bound to the south by hedgerow and tree planting.

4.92 Views along the road corridor are terminated in views of housing to the north of Stoke Road including the detached dwelling house and White House Farm, perceived as set back from the road corridor and preventing views further westwards from this location.

4.93 Views over the grass land criss-crossed by stock proof fencing and towards a large mature tree can be perceived beyond the post and wire fencing associated with the southern boundary of the Site as can the mature tree dense tree planting located within the Site can be seen from this location. Beyond these features there are views towards vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary, terminating the majority of views in this direction apart from limited glimpses towards the housing to the east of Bell’s Lane.

4.94 To the right of the viewpoint, views over paddocks continue with views towards the adjacent field parcel located immediately east of the Site. A TV mast and associated structures can be seen within the centre of the adjoining parcel, serving as prominent features on the skyline.

4.95 Vegetation associated with the northern boundary of the adjoining field parcel can be discerned beyond the intervening features, serving to prevent views further north apart from where a break in the vegetation allows glimpses towards the agricultural land and associated boundary vegetation to the north-east.

4.96 To the right of the viewpoint, views continue along the road corridor and associated footway and grass verge, terminating in views of vegetation and built form associated with housing to the east of Stoke Road including Yew Tree Lodge Nursing home to the south of the road corridor.

Viewpoint 2B

4.97 This viewpoint represents pedestrian and vehicular users of Stoke Road as it runs directly adjacent to the Site’s southern boundary looking south towards the land to the south of the Site.

4.98 In the foreground, views are dominated by the road corridor as it passes adjacent to the Site. Hedgerow and tree planting associated with the field system to the south of the road corridor is prominent in the view and prevents views further south.

4.99 Views are restricted to the road corridor owing to built form to the east and west of Stoke Road.

4.100 High Voltage power lines and pylons are evident, rising above the intervening features on the skyline.

Viewpoint 3

4.101 This viewpoint represents vehicular and pedestrian users travelling west along Stoke Road as it passes adjacent to Yew Tree Lodge Residential Home and opposite the PRoW, looking north- west towards the Site.

4.102 In the foreground, views are dominated by the road corridor, associated footways and vegetation. Boundary features associated with Yew Tree Lodge Residential Home can be discerned to the far left of the view, beyond which can be seen vegetation associated with the field system to the south of Stoke Road.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

4.103 To the centre and right of the view, beyond the road corridor can be seen scrub vegetation and post and wire fencing associated with the southern boundary of the fields immediately north of Stoke Road. To the far right of the view can be seen a signpost and the surfaced route of the Saxon Shore Way / PRoW RS107 as it passes northwards perpendicular to the roadway.

4.104 To the centre of the view, beyond the immediate post and wire fencing be seen dense coniferous vegetation located within the Site, including a mature tree located within the eastern Site parcel. The TV mast and associated structures located within the field parcel immediately east of the Site can be discerned, beyond which can be seen built form associated with the recent development to the east of Bell’s Lane, visible beyond vegetation associated with the northern boundary of the field parcels to the north of Stoke Road.

4.105 Views along the road corridor terminating in views towards the single dwelling house and associated boundary wall located along the southern boundary of the Site.

Viewpoint 4

4.106 This viewpoint represents pedestrian users of PRoW RS107 / Saxon Shore Way Long Distance Route as it passes perpendicular to the northern boundary of the fields immediately north of Stoke Road, looking south-west towards the Site.

4.107 In the foreground to the centre and left of the viewpoint, views comprise boundary vegetation including trees and hedgerow associated with the field parcels northern boundary. To the right of the viewpoint, there are views over agricultural land to the north of the field parcels to the north of Stoke Road and the Site.

4.108 To the centre and left of the view, beyond the immediate boundary vegetation, there are views over the field parcel located to the north of Stoke Road and the west of the PRoW, comprising grazing land and within which lies the TV mast and associated structures. Post and wire equestrian fencing also criss-crosses the field parcel and a number of horses can be seen within the field, beyond which vegetation associated Stoke Road and the fields to the south, including land comprising the land to the south of Stoke Road can be discerned. To the far left of the view, built form and a telegraph mast can be discerned glimpsed between intervening vegetation.

4.109 To the right of the view, beyond the grazing land to the west of the PRoW can be seen the single dwelling house and associated garage located along the southern boundary of the Site, to the north of which can be seen dense vegetation located within the Site and along its northern boundary. The rooflines of several dwellings further east of the road corridor can also be discerned beyond intervening built form, including distant glimpses towards housing along Butt Haw Close beyond farmland.

4.110 To the right of the view, housing associated with the recent development to the east of Bell’s Lane comprising the eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh, is evident upon the horizon following the contours of the rising landform and preventing views further north and west from this location.

Viewpoint 5

4.111 This viewpoint represents pedestrian users of PRoW RS107 as it passes north of Stoke Road to the north-east of the Site, looking south-west across arable land towards the Site.

4.112 The view is taken from the point at which several PRoWs meet immediately south of Tile Farm Barn and adjacent to the reservoir.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

4.113 In the foreground, there are extensive views over arable land which lies to the north of the Site and east of the housing to the east of Bell’s Lane.

4.114 To the right of the view, the route of PRoW RS98 can be discerned as it travels westwards through the immediate field parcel.

4.115 To the left of the view, avenue tree planting and boundary vegetation associated with the eastern boundary of the immediate field parcel is clearly evident and runs parallel to PRoW 107 and the Saxon Shore Way. The tree planting serves to obscure the majority of views to the southeast from this location, although glimpses towards the wider landscape to the south can be seen between breaks in the intervening vegetation and includes views of the high voltage pylons.

4.116 In the middle distance, beyond the immediate farmland can be seen vegetation associated with the northern boundaries of the field parcels to the north of Stoke Road, including the dense vegetation associated with the Site’s northern boundary evident to the centre of the view preventing views further south-west from this location. To the right of the view, beyond hedgerow planting can be discerned housing to the east of Bell’s Lane which follows the rising landform, preventing views further west.

4.117 To the centre, there are glimpses of the single detached dwelling house located along the Site’s southern boundary with Stoke Road seen between breaks in the intervening boundary vegetation. To the centre-left of the view can be seen the TV mast which lies within the field parcel immediately east of the Site, evident on the skyline.

4.118 In the distance, beyond descending farmland and intervening vegetation lies the River Medway, beyond which rises the wider landscape to the south.

Viewpoint 6

4.119 This viewpoint represents pedestrian users of PRoW RS112 as it passes north of Stoke Road and the Site, looking south-east across arable land towards the Site and Stoke Road.

4.120 In the foreground, there are extensive views over open farmland. To the right of the view can be seen a grass field margin along which the route of the PRoW can be discerned flanked by vegetation which serves to separate the fields from the houses to the east of Bell’s Lane. To the left of the view can be seen the route of PRoW RS98 which runs perpendicular to PRoW RS112 eastwards through the immediate arable land.

4.121 In the middle distance, to the centre right of the photo viewpoint there are views of vegetation associated with the northern boundary of the field parcels immediately north of Stoke Road, comprising hedgerow, field trees and dense hedgerow and tree planting associated with the Site’s northern boundary. The TV mast located within the field parcel immediately east of the Site can be seen on the skyline and Yew Tree Lodge Residential Home located to the south of Stoke Road is clearly visible through breaks in the intervening vegetation. The single detached dwelling house located along the Site’s southern boundary, is clearly visible beyond the intervening vegetation as is the mature tree and dense treebelt located within the Site.

4.122 In the distance, to the centre and left of the viewpoint, beyond the immediate farmland can be seen a row of tree planting which lies to the west of and follows the route of PRoW RS107 / Saxon Shore Way Long Distance Route which runs north of Stoke Road adjacent to the eastern boundary of the immediate arable field parcel. The line of tree planting appears significantly

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

denser to the centre-left of the view and north of the tree line, denoting the location of the reservoir adjacent to Tile Barn Farm.

4.123 Beyond the immediate field parcel and intervening vegetation can be discerned agricultural land lying to the west of the immediate field parcel and also south of Stoke Road visible in breaks within the intervening vegetation. A dense vegetation belt associated with Roper’s Lane terminates the majority of views further westwards.

4.124 In the distance, to the centre of the view can be seen substantial built form including the chimney of Kingsnorth Power Station.

4.125 The line of high voltage power lines and pylons form a dominant feature along the horizon to the centre and centre left of the view, traversing the landscape north-west to south-east towards the power station.

4.126 To the centre right of the view, beyond intervening vegetation associated with the field system to the north of Stoke Road there are long distance views towards the River Medway and the wider landscape to the south.

Viewpoint 7

4.127 This viewpoint represents pedestrian users of PRoW RS112 as it passes north of Stoke Road, adjacent to the housing east of Bell’s Lane and looking south-east across arable land towards the Site.

4.128 In the foreground, views are dominated by open farmland as it descends south-eastwards towards Stoke Road. To the right of the view can be seen a grass field margin along which the route of the PRoW can be discerned flanked by vegetation which serves to separate the fields from the houses to the east of Bell’s Lane. The roof line of a house associated with the recent housing to the east of Bell’s Lane can be discerned above the intervening vegetation. Views further west and south-west are prevented by these intervening features from this location.

4.129 In the middle distance, to the centre / centre right of the photo viewpoint there are views of vegetation associated with the northern boundary of the field parcels immediately north of Stoke Road, comprising hedgerow, field trees and the dense treebelt comprising dense hedgerow and tree planting associated with the Site’s northern boundary. The TV mast located within the field parcel immediately east of the Site is clearly visible through breaks in the intervening vegetation. Yew Tree Lodge Residential Home located to the south of Stoke Road as well as land to the west of it can be glimpsed beyond intervening vegetation. Built form and agricultural buildings associated with Street Farm located along Stoke Road, can be seen between breaks in the intervening vegetation to the right of the view.

4.130 To the centre and left of the viewpoint, beyond the immediate farmland can be seen a row of tree planting which follows the route of PRoW RS107 / Saxon Shore Way Long Distance Route which runs north of Stoke Road and adjacent to the reservoir south of Tile Barn Farm. Tile farm barn and associated buildings including a number of caravans, can be discerned to the centre left of the view, north of the dense tree planting associated with the reservoir.

4.131 In the distance to the centre / centre right of the viewpoint, beyond the intervening vegetation associated with the immediate field parcel and the fields to the north of Stoke Road, can be discerned further agricultural land interspersed with tree blocks and boundary vegetation, descending towards the River Medway.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

4.132 Substantial built form associated with Kingsnorth Power Station, including the Chimney and several High Voltage Pylons serve as prominent features on the skyline in views to the south and south-east.

4.133 To the left of the view, agricultural land, including built form associated with Beluncle Farm off Stoke Road, rises towards the horizon, beyond which can be discerned built form associated with Kingsnorth industrial estate, serving to prevent views further east / south-east from this location.

4.134 To the centre right of the view, beyond intervening vegetation can be discerned farmland and vegetation belts interspersed with sporadic pockets of built form, beyond which can be seen the River Medway and wider landscape the south.

Viewpoint 8

4.135 This viewpoint represents users of Public Right of Way RS351A / the Saxon Shore Way / Abbots Court Road as it passes east of the houses along Abbots Court Road just north of PRoW RS100, looking north-east over farmland towards the Site.

4.136 In the foreground, there are views over farmland to the south of the Site and Stoke Road as well as along the PRoW, the latter evident to the right of the view. To the left of the view, vegetation associated with the boundaries of adjacent dwellings off Abbots Court Road is evident.

4.137 In the middle distance, vegetation associated with the field network to the south of Stoke Road and the Site can be discerned beyond which there are views towards the existing houses along the road corridor to the left of the view.

4.138 To the right of the view, Kingsnorth power station can be discerned as can a number of high voltage pylons and power lines seen rising above a dense area of vegetation associated with the sewage works to the south of the PRoW.

4.139 To the centre left of the view, the single detached dwelling along Site’s southern boundary can be discerned as can buildings associated with Street Farm. The TV mast located immediately east of the Site can be discerned forming a dominant element of the skyline in views north-east from this location.

4.140 Views further north and east are mostly prevented from this section of the PRoW due to the intervening features described, apart from the chimney associated with Kingsnorth Power Station and the high voltage pylons and lines evident on the skyline.

Viewpoint 9

4.141 This viewpoint represents pedestrian users and occasional vehicular users of PRoW RS351B / the Saxon Shore Way / Abbots Court Road as it passes east to west through Farmland between Vicarage Lane and Abbots Court Nursing Home, looking north towards the Site.

4.142 The view point is taken along the PRoW east of PRoW RS96 adjacent to the sewage works.

4.143 In the foreground, views comprise farmland extending north of the footpath towards Stoke Road.

4.144 In the middle distance, beyond the immediate farmland and intervening vegetation there are distant views of housing and associated vegetation along the Stoke Road including the single dwelling and White House Farm.

4.145 The dense treebelt located within the Site and along its northern boundary can also be discerned beyond the housing on Stoke Road.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

4.146 The farm building and agricultural barns associated with Street Farm on Stoke Road to the west of the Site can also be seen, as can the rooflines of housing associated with the development to the east of Bell’s Lane, rising above the intervening built form.

4.147 To the centre right of the viewpoint and east of the houses along Stoke Road can be seen Yew Tree Residential Home and vegetation associated with the land to the south of Stoke Road. Farmland can be seen as it rises above the road corridor further east of Yew Tree Lodge, towards the housing located immediately west of the junction between Stoke Road and Rope’s Lane. High voltage power lines are evident, rising above the housing forming prominent features on the skyline.

4.148 To the left of the viewpoint, views continue along the PRoW as it passes adjacent to farmland passing the signpost associated with the PRoW RS95 and terminating in views of built form and boundary vegetation associate with the southern edge of the settlement, comprising housing on Butt Haw Close, Abbots Court Road and Vicarage Lane. Beyond this can be discerned tree planting associated with the grounds of Hoo St Werburgh Parish Church. The intervening built form and vegetation, serve to prevent views further west from this location.

4.149 To the right of the viewpoint, views continue along the PRoW / Abbots Court Road permitting views across farmland, terminating in views of dense vegetation belt associated with the grounds of the Nature Study Centre located immediately west of Kingsnorth Power Station, the latter evident on the skyline. High voltage powerlines and pylons are also visible on the skyline from this location. Together these features prevent views further east from this location.

Viewpoint 10

4.150 This viewpoint represents pedestrian users of PRoW RS95 as it passes east of Abbots Court to meet Jacob’s Lane, looking north-west towards the Site and the settlement edge beyond intervening rising farmland.

4.151 In the foreground, views comprise farmland rising northwards to meet Stoke Road through which the course of the PRoW is clearly visible as it travels westwards through farmland, passing adjacent to Abbots Court Lodge.

4.152 In the middle distance, low lying scrub vegetation running north and south of Abbots Court Lodge is visible to the left and right of the view and denotes the course of PRoW RS351B / Saxon Shore Way as it passes through the agricultural field between Stoke Road and Abbots Court Nursing Home.

4.153 In the distance to the centre and centre left of the view, housing and vegetation associated with the existing southern and eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh is evident upon the horizon, seen beyond and atop of the rising farmland, comprising views of rooflines climbing in accordance with the contours. Built form associated with the existing developed edge, prevent views further west and north-west from this location.

4.154 To the left of the view, beyond farmland to the west of Abbots Court Lodge, can be discerned dense vegetation associated with the sewage works preventing views further west and south- west. The spire associated with Hoo St Werburgh Parish Church is visible rising above the dense vegetation to the left of Abbots Court Lodge.

4.155 To the centre of the view, beyond the farmland can be discerned the single dwelling house located along the southern boundary of the Site seen between breaks in the intervening

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

vegetation. Planting located within the Site and along its northern boundary can be seen beyond the dwelling and the mature tree within the eastern parcel is also visible from this location. The TV mast located within the field immediately east of the Site serves as a prominent feature on the skyline.

4.156 Built form associated with Yew Tree Lodge Residential Home can be seen to the right of the TV mast beyond which are glimpses towards a large agricultural unit associated with a commercial farm to the north of Peninsula Way visible in the distance.

4.157 To the right of the viewpoint, there are views of built form and vegetation continues along the eastern portion of Stoke Road including a number of semi-detached dwellings, a derelict building and associated vegetation located immediately west of the road junction between Stoke Road and Roper’s Lane.

To the centre and right of the view, high voltage power lines and pylons form dominant features along the skyline, traversing south-east across the landscape.

Viewpoint 11

4.158 This viewpoint represents vehicular users of Jacob’s Lane to the south-east of the Site, looking north-west towards the Site and the settlement edge beyond intervening farmland.

4.159 In the foreground, there are views of the road corridor and towards the grass field margin associated with the field immediately west of the Lane. To the right of the photo viewpoint, views along the Lane continue northwards towards Stoke Road, seen beyond the green metal access gates associated with the land either side of the road corridor.

4.160 Beyond the immediate Lane and field margin can be seen agricultural land associated with the field parcel to the west of the Jacob’s Lane, extending westwards towards Hoo St Werburgh and northwards to meet Stoke Road. A number of structures are visible within the field including large electricity pylon and vehicular height restriction barrier to the left of the view.

4.161 In the middle distance, views over agricultural land continue north and westwards with linear runs of vegetation denoting individual field parcels. To the centre of the viewpoint can be discerned Abbots Court Lodge seen beyond ground enabling works and a number of construction vehicles.

Viewpoint 12

4.162 This viewpoint represents pedestrian users of PRoW RS98 / Saxon Shore Way as it passes through farmland to the east of Roper’s Lane, looking south-west towards the Site.

4.163 In the foreground, there views over open farmland which lies between Stoke Road and Roper’s Lane, west of Tile Barn Farm.

4.164 To the right of the view, the course of the PRoW can be discerned as it travels westwards through the immediate field parcel, terminating in views of built form associated with the eastern edge of the settlement, namely housing to the east of Bell’s Lane. Together with a dense belt of vegetation to the south of the PRoW associated with the reservoir adjacent to Tile Barn Farm, views towards the wider landscape to the west and south-west are prevented from this location.

4.165 To the left of the viewpoint, there are views along the PRoW flanked either side by arable land. To the left of the view can be discerned Roper’s Lane along which runs vegetation associated

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

with the field network to the east of the road, preventing views to the wider landscape in this direction.

4.166 To the centre of the viewpoint, open views over farmland continue southwards towards Stoke Road, denoted by vegetation and built form associated with the road corridor. To the centre-right of the viewpoint can be discerned the TV mast and spire of Hoo St Werburgh Church, rising above the intervening vegetation associated with Stoke Road.

4.167 Owing to the descending landform and open farmland, distant views are permitted beyond Stoke Road towards the River Medway and the wider landscape to the south, prominent on the visual horizon. Hoo Fort is also visible to the centre of the view.

Viewpoint 13

4.168 This viewpoint represents vehicular and pedestrian users of Roper’s Lane south of the junction with Peninsula Way at the access gate to the private farm track, looking south-west across open farmland towards the Site.

4.169 In the foreground, there are extensive views over open arable farmland located to the north of Stoke road and to the west of Roper’s Lane as it descends towards the River Medway to the south. To the right of the view beyond the metal access gate associated with the private farm track off Roper’s Lane can be discerned a post and rail fence running parallel to the track to the south of Peninsula Way.

4.170 To the left of the view, beyond the immediate vegetation can be discerned the road corridor and raised embankment along which runs a swale descending southward to meet Stoke Road.

4.171 To the centre of the view, a dense block of vegetation associated with the reservoir adjacent to Tile Barn Farm, comprising several large brick buildings and a number of caravans can be discerned. The TV mast located immediately east of the Site is evident on the skyline rising above the intervening vegetation associated with the reservoir.

4.172 Beyond the built form associated with Tile Barn Farm can be discerned the dense tree planting associated with the northern boundary of the Site. To the right of this can be discerned built form associated with the large agricultural buildings to the rear of Street Farm.

4.173 To the right of the view, a line of avenue tree planting can be seen following the course of PRoW RS107 passing north of Tile Barn Farm. Built form associated with the eastern settlement edge and housing to the north of Bell’s Lane is evident along the rising landform forming the visual horizon and preventing views further west.

4.174 In the distance, evident in the majority of the view can be seen the landscape to the south, including Gillingham rising above the River Medway and forming the visual horizon in this direction.

Viewpoint 14

4.175 This viewpoint represents users of Public Right of Way RS107 as it passes north to south through farmland to the north of the Site.

4.176 The view looks south towards the Site from the north of the PRoW at the point at which it meets Peninsula Way.

4.177 In the foreground, there are extensive views over arable land to the north of the Site. To the left of the view, the grass verge and tree planting which runs parallel to the PRoW can be discerned.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

To the right of the view can be seen post and rail fencing and grass embankment associated with and to the south of Peninsula Way.

4.178 In the middle distance and to the left of the view, built form associated with the eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh is evident, traversing the western boundary of the immediate field parcel as it descends towards Stoke Road and the River Medway to the south. Views further west and south- west are prevented from this location by the built form.

4.179 Long distance views over the open farmland towards the landscape to the south are available from this location owing to the descending landform and limited vegetation.

4.180 In the distance, beyond the immediate farmland can be discerned vegetation associated with the fields to the north of Stoke Road including that associated with the northern boundary of the Site. Housing along Stoke Road can be seen through breaks in the intervening vegetation.

4.181 To the left of the view can be discerned the TV mast which lies to the north of Stoke Road and immediately east of the Site, prominent on the skyline in views from this location. Beyond the TV mast and intervening features associated with Stoke Road, can be discerned further farmland to the south of the road corridor including an area of dense vegetation associated with the reservoir and sewage works adjacent to Abbots Court.

4.182 The River Medway can be discerned to the centre / centre left of the view as can Hoo Fort, beyond which the landscape to the south of the river rises towards the horizon.

Viewpoint 15

4.183 This viewpoint represents users of Public Right of Way RS100 / Saxon Shore Way also forming part South Walk 2 – Hoo published circular walks on the Hoo Peninsula, as it passes south of the houses along Abbots Court Road towards Vicarage Lane Industrial Estate, looking north-east over farmland towards the Site.

4.184 In the foreground, there are views over a parcel of gently undulating farmland located to the south of Abbots Court Road and to the east of Vicarage Lane. To the centre of the view, the course of the PRoW is evident as it passes north through the agricultural land to emerge at Abbots Court Road at the point at which it meets PRoW RS351. A single telecommunications pole can be seen to the centre left of the view, adjacent to the PRoW.

4.185 In the middle distance, beyond the immediate farmland to the centre and centre left of the view can be clearly seen built form and vegetation associated with the southern edge of the settlement comprising houses along Vicarage Lane and Abbots Court Road. Hoo St Werburgh Church and Spire is clearly visible to the centre left of the view beyond the housing along Vicarage Lane, serving as a prominent landmark on the skyline. Views further north and west are prevented by the intervening built form.

4.186 To the centre right of the view, dense vegetation associated with the water course which runs along the eastern boundary of the immediate Site parcel is evident and serves to prevent views towards the wider landscape to the east / north east from this location. The high voltage pylons associated with the landscape to the east, can be discerned rising above the intervening vegetation to the left of the view.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

Viewpoint 16

4.187 This viewpoint represents users of Public Right of Way RS49 / Saxon Shore Way Long Distance Route also forming part South Walk 2 – Hoo published circular walks on the Hoo Peninsula, as it passes east adjacent to the northern banks of the River Medway and east of the Industrial works to the south of Vicarage Lane, looking north-east towards the Site.

4.188 In the foreground, to the left and right of the photo viewpoint, there are views along the footpath as it passes parallel with the northern shores of the River Medway.

4.189 Farmland, comprising grassland and crop planting can be perceived extending immediately north of the PRoW and discerned beyond scrub vegetation and grass verge which flanks the line of the path.

4.190 In the mid-ground and to the left of the view, can be seen built form associated with the industrial units at Vicarage Lane Industrial Estate. Vegetation and trees associated with the field boundary to the north east of the industrial estate can be seen extending northwards.

4.191 To the centre of the view beyond the farmland to the north of the PRoW can be discerned a dense vegetation belt associated with the sewage works to the south west of Abbots Court Farm. Beyond this can be seen built form along Stoke Road, namely White House Farm and the Single dwelling house along the Site’s southern boundary.

4.192 The southern edge of Hoo St Werburgh, including housing along Stoke Road can be discerned along the skyline rising above the farmland through breaks in the intervening field boundary vegetation and serving to prevent views further north. The spire of Hoo St Werburgh Parish Church serves as a landmark upon the skyline to the north-west, visible to the left of the view.

4.193 In the distance, to the right of the viewpoint intervening vegetation belts associated with the surrounding field network, road corridors and sewage works, serve to prevent views further north / north-east. To the right of the viewpoint, agricultural land to the north and east of the PRoW can as well as built form associated with the power station can be discerned beyond intervening vegetation.

4.194 Pylons serve as dominant features upon the skyline, rising above the intervening vegetation, particularly evident to the north and east.

Summary of Visual Baseline

4.195 The baseline analysis results in a number of reasoned conclusions which are summarised below.

4.196 The interaction of existing landform, built form and vegetation results in a restricted visual ‘envelope’ or visible extent of the Site.

4.197 Receptors with close range views of the Site are mainly restricted to residential properties along the southern boundary of the Site, users of Stoke Road as it passes directly adjacent to the Site’s boundaries and users of the PRoWs as they pass east and west adjacent to the Site’s boundary.

4.198 Within the wider context more distant views of the Site are very limited from all directions due to the interaction between gently sloping landform, vegetated field boundaries, built form and roadside vegetation.

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4.199 The visual envelope lies within close proximity to the Site and its boundaries, extending north and east to include the agricultural land to the north of the Site, located between the settlement edge, Roper’s Lane and Peninsular Way, its southern extent encompasses Stoke Road. To the south, the visual envelope extends from Stoke Road and the land to the south of Stoke Road, encompassing part of the field network to the south between the sewage works and the housing along Abbots Court Road. Views of the Site can be gained from isolated points along the PRoW which runs along the banks of the River Medway, east of the Industrial Estate.

4.200 As a result, potential visual receptors to be assessed have been identified through both field work and desk study and are summarised below;

• Properties and residents on the Stoke Road

• Properties and residents east of Bell’s Lane (to the north-west of the Site)

• Properties and residents east of Abbots Court Road (to the south-west of the Site)

• Residents and employees at Yew Tree Lodge Care Home (to the east of the Site)

• Employees and visitors to Vicarage Lane Industrial Estate (to the south of the Site)

• Road users of Stoke Road (as it passes adjacent to the Site’s boundaries)

• Road users of Roper’s Lane (to the north-east of the Site)

• Road users of Jacob’s Lane (to the south-east of the Site)

• Users of PROW RS107 / Saxon Shore Way (to the north-east of the Site)

• Users of PROW RS98 / Saxon Shore Way (to the north / north-east of the Site)

• Users of PROW RS112 (to the north-west of the Site)

• Users of PROW RS351 A & B / Saxon Shore Way (to the south of the Site)

• Users of PROW RS100/ Saxon Shore Way (to the south-west of the Site)

• Users of PROW RS49 / Saxon Shore Way (to the south of the Site)

• Users of PROW RS95 (to the south-east of the Site)

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

5.0 LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS

Introduction

5.1 The development proposals are fully described in the Design and Access Statement and other information accompanying the planning application. The existing landscape resource and the visual receptors and amenity of the site have been considered by the planning and design process and have informed the resultant scheme. This approach has entailed collaboration between landscape, urban design, ecological and other professionals. The landscape components of the scheme are an important integral part of the proposals.

Landscape Design and GI Objectives

5.2 The key objectives of the landscape and GI proposals for the scheme are:

• To deliver a well-designed proposal which locates development within an appropriate landscape setting of existing and new landscape habitats;

• To conserve and protect features of value including existing hedgerows and trees;

• To enhance biodiversity across the Site by introducing native tree planting, grassland, wetland habitat and street trees;

• To deliver landscaping which provides for play, recreation and sustainability benefits to include informal play areas, open space, SuDS and native planting;

• To ensure that areas of open space benefit from passive surveillance from neighbouring properties, buildings and streets so that these areas are safe and attractive to use;

• To minimise any potential adverse landscape or visual effects through careful attention to the siting of proposed development and associated landscape proposals;

• To provide a network of pedestrian/cycle routes which connect into the existing PROW network;

• To adopt an appropriate landscape management and maintenance regime to ensure the successful establishment and continued thriving of the existing and new planting and open space areas.

Landscape and Green Infrastructure (GI) Proposals

5.3 The landscape GI and proposals for the scheme are detailed in the DAS accompanying the planning application and relate predominately to the Site parcel to the north of Stoke Road within which the proposed development is to be located.

5.4 In summary, these proposals include:

• The provision of 0.67 hectares of land dedicated to landscape, GI, Public Open Space (POS), children’s play and habitat related proposals, including SuDS;

• Existing hedgerows and tree planting will be retained where possible and utilised as part of the proposed development’s GI, including the existing mature tree located within the eastern Site parcel. Hedgerow loss is proposed to a limited section of the Site’s southern boundary as

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

well as two further hedgerows located adjacent to the Site in order to accommodate minor highways works and to facilitate Site access off Stoke Road. Hedgerow loss will be mitigated for with new hedgerow and tree planting as part of the proposals.

• There will be further hedgerow and tree loss to facilitate the development and internal access roads, including the removal of the linear tree group which traverses the interior of the Site. This loss will be mitigated for by the provision of new tree and hedgerow planting in place of the removed tree group, to the benefit of improved amenity and arboricultural value.

• Further to this, any tree or hedgerow loss will be mitigated as part of the proposals through proposed planting within areas of POS and where possible throughout the proposed development;

• New pedestrian and cycle routes are proposed as part of the scheme and will run through the open space and through the proposed development itself, linking to the surrounding road corridors as well as the PROWs network beyond;

• Public Open Space and proposed tree planting is proposed in close proximity to the eastern boundary of the Site. The open space will be designed to be multi-functional, supporting both informal and formal recreation and increasing biodiversity and habitat value across the Site. The open space will incorporate new tree and shrub planting and an equipped area of play.

• Two attenuation basins will be located within areas of POS to the southeast and southwest of the Site with a further attenuation basin located within land to the south of Stoke Road and the Site. This will serve to provide surface water attenuation and increase biodiversity and habitat value across the Site;

• Proposed development will be set back from sections of the eastern boundary, beyond an area of POS, retaining boundary vegetation where possible and incorporating new native hedgerow and tree planting to Site boundaries and within areas of POS. An existing large mature tree within the eastern Site parcel will be retained and incorporated into the proposals;

• In general, proposed housing will back or side onto the rear plots of the adjacent permitted development associated with Street Farm (MC/15/0098), retaining and supplementing the existing western boundary hedgerow where possible;

• Proposed formal footpath routes will be provided to the north of the Site, running adjacent to the northern boundary and providing direct links to the existing PROWs network to the east and west of the Site. A further footpath is proposed running adjacent to the proposed linear vegetation belt which traverses the interior of the Site. Informal pedestrian routes will be provided throughout the areas of POS, enhancing accessibility across the Site;

• A proposed equipped area of play will be located within the area of POS to the east of the Site, serving to provide habitat creation and enhance amenity value and biodiversity across the Site;

• New structural planting would consist of native species and be designed to complement existing tree planting. The planting mix would include a proportion of extra heavy and heavy standard tree planting in order to create a degree of immediate impact;

• New tree planting is proposed along the internal access roads in addition to on-plot planting in order to complement the proposed structural planting to Site boundaries. This will also further

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serve to integrate new housing within its landscape setting and soften the appearance of built form in views from the local area.

5.5 Further to this, a number of fruits trees of early and semi mature proportions and forming part of a larger orchard group within the field network to the south of the proposed development site, will be removed in order to accommodate a new surface water attenuation facility. This will result in the loss of five individual fruit trees assessed as being of low arboricultural value. However, tree loss will be kept to a minimum and replaced or supplemented with new tree planting elsewhere within the Site as part of the proposals.

Landscape Management

5.6 All of the landscape areas and POS features will be managed and maintained. This would be achieved through the implementation of a comprehensive Landscape Management Plan (LMP), to ensure the successful establishment and continued thriving of the landscape proposals.

6.0 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS

6.1 The following section outlines the likely landscape and visual effects that would arise from proposed development on the Site. Schedules detailing these likely landscape and visual effects for the receptors are included in Appendices C and D, respectively. Please refer to these in conjunction with the following descriptions.

Landscape Effects

Construction

6.2 During the construction phase, some short term reversible adverse effects upon the landscape would occur. Anticipated effects would primarily be caused by:

• Clearance and set up of compound area;

• New junction arrangements along the Site’s boundary with Stoke Road to facilitate the Site access;

• New highway works;

• Building works; and

• Construction traffic, including HGVs and staff cars travelling to and from Site.

6.3 All construction works would be carried out in full accordance with best practice procedures to minimise and protect, as far as practicable, potentially adverse effects upon the local landscape character.

6.4 The landscape effects during construction are assessed as being of a transient nature and, given that the timescales involved would be relatively short, this is considered to be of limited significance overall. Minimal existing vegetation would be removed as part of the development and all retained hedgerows and trees would be protected throughout the construction period. Inevitably there would be some disruption to the Site landscape and its immediate environs

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during this phase of works. However, it would be localised and limited in extent, resulting in no more than Moderate Adverse landscape effect overall, assessed as Negligible at the national scale and Moderate Adverse upon the Site.

Operation (following Completion)

6.5 The impact on the landscape as a result of the proposed development and the consequential landscape effects has been assessed. It is considered that the Site’s landscape is one that could accommodate change as presented by the Framework Plan, and the consequential landscape effects as a result of proposed development would not result in any unacceptable harm to landscape character. This conclusion is reached by the following:

• National Character Area: The Site, is not subject to any national, local or other landscape designations.

• County Character Assessment: Within the County’s landscape character assessment, the Site is located within a LCA identified as being of moderate sensitivity owing to an indistinct landscape and a weak sense of place.

• District Character Assessment: At the district scale, the landscape character area in which the Site sits is considered to be characterised by a ‘Weak landscape structure, lack of distinctiveness and overall coherence’ as well as comprising ‘Many detracting features’. Based upon judgements of its condition and sensitivity, the landscape assessment considers a strategy to ‘Restore and create’.

• Site and Immediate Context: Positive characteristics of the Site character include the existing boundary vegetation where present, existing vegetation within the Site including a large mature tree within the eastern Site parcel as well as the gently sloping landform. These will be retained where possible and incorporated into the design of the scheme.

• Site Features and Character: The Site is not considered to be a distinctive, special or particularly noteworthy or rare landscape and is largely devoid of landscape features apart from the sporadic boundary vegetation, a large mature tree within the eastern parcel is to be retained as part of the proposals, as well as the internal linear tree and hedgerow planting. The latter is considered to be outgrown and of limited arboricultural value such that new tree and hedgerow planting will be provided as part of the proposals.

• A number of fruit trees comprising part of a larger orchard group assessed as being of low arboricultural value will be removed in order to accommodate the proposed attenuation feature located to the south of the Site. Tree loss will be mitigated through the provision of new tree planting within other areas of the Site as part of the proposals.

• Proposed GI as part of the scheme will introduce new habitats and features which will bring beneficial effects to the landscape comprising the Site.

6.6 In terms of effects upon Landscape Character Areas identified within National, County and District character assessments these range from Negligible/ Minor Adverse on completion. For instance, larger scale character areas and those situated away from the Site are less affected than smaller character areas covering the Site. Effects will be mitigated as proposed GI within the Site matures resulting in no more than Minor adverse / Negligible effects at year 10 with some minor beneficial effects arising from the proposals (refer to Appendix C for further detail).

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

6.7 In conclusion, upon completion, it is judged that the direct impact of the development on the landscape would result in no more than a Moderate Adverse effect upon the landscape of the Site and its immediate context. Effects will be mitigated by the retention of the majority of boundary vegetation and through the provision of new areas of tree and hedgerow planting to boundaries and within areas of proposed POS. Furthermore, proposed development will be located along the existing developed edge associated with Hoo St Werburgh, set back from Site boundaries beyond new areas of POS as well as new structural tree and hedgerow planting. Whilst there would be an initial adverse effect, it is judged that these effects would reduce over time as the proposed GI framework becomes established. By Year 10, the Site would benefit from a maturing landscape of new habitats of extensive new tree and hedgerow planting, proposed attenuation areas and grassland. As such it is considered that the landscape effects at Year 10 would be no more than Minor Adverse, with Minor Beneficial effects arising in relation to specific areas such as trees and vegetation, water features and open space and recreation.

Visual Effects

Construction

6.8 All construction works will be carried out in accordance with best practice procedures to protect and to minimise, as far as practicable, adverse impacts on visual amenity.

6.9 During the construction phase, adverse effects upon the local visual resource will occur and this depends on the actual extent of visibility of the Site for receptors. Inevitably, those visual receptors in closest proximity to the Site and its boundaries such as residents located along Stoke Road, as well as vehicular/ pedestrian users of Stoke Road, may experience close range views of construction activity within the Site as well as that involved in the excavation works for the attenuation pond within the land to the south of Stoke Road including vehicles and associated machinery, site compounds, and earthworks/ground modelling activities.

6.10 It is assessed that the overall visual effects during the construction phase would be over a relatively short duration and consequently, there would be a short-term effect as a result. Construction effects for sensitive receptors adjacent to the Site are therefore considered to result in a High magnitude of visual change resulting in no more than Major to Moderate Adverse effects overall. However, for less sensitive receptors and those at a distance from the Site, effects are considered to be at most Moderate / Minor Adverse.

Operation (following Completion)

6.11 The following provides a summary of the visual effects assessment included at Appendix D.

Residential Properties

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

6.12 Residential receptors affected most by visual effects caused by the proposed development are properties located along the Site’s southern boundary, namely the single dwelling house and White House Farm as well as other properties on Stoke Road to the west and east of the Site.

6.13 The majority of properties adjoining the Site’s southern boundary are likely to have views of new housing and associated access roads located within the Site obtained from upper floor windows from rear or side elevations with some properties also experiencing partial ground floor views. Proposed housing within the Site will be seen beyond the rear gardens, boundary treatments and vegetation associated with the existing properties as well as that associated with the proposed properties within the Site. Further to this, proposed housing within the Site will be seen beyond boundary vegetation along the Site’s boundaries and in some places beyond areas of POS.

6.14 For the residents of White House Farm, once new planting running north to south between the two Site compartments matures, it is likely that views will be limited to new housing located predominately within the western Site parcel. Further to this, proposed development will be set back from the southern boundary of the western Site compartment beyond an area of POS, tree planting and SuDS serving to soften views of new development as perceived by residents at White House Farm.

6.15 Similarly, it is likely that residents of the single detached dwelling house to the east of White House Farm located along the Site’s southern boundary, will be limited to views of new housing within the eastern Site parcel with glimpses of new housing within the western parcel owing to the new tree and hedgerow planting proposed within the Site. Further to this, proposed development within the Site will be perceived beyond rear gardens and associated vegetation and boundary features associated with existing residences along Stoke Road.

6.16 Views of the proposals from a number of residents situated on Stoke Road, opposite the Site’s southern boundary, including Yew Tree Lodge will have clear views of the proposals from front and side elevation upper floor windows with some properties also experiencing partial ground floor views. Views of the proposals will be perceived beyond boundary treatments and vegetation associated with existing properties to the north and south of Stoke Road, and comprise close to mid-range views of new housing perceived in the context of the road corridor and existing built form associated with the eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh.

6.17 Proposed housing will be set back from the southern and eastern boundaries beyond a large area of POS and proposed boundary tree and hedgerow planting. Once mature, the proposals will be set within a landscape structure of proposed boundary vegetation and tree planting, serving to soften the appearance of built form in views from the residents along Stoke Road and along the Site’s southern boundary.

6.18 Views of the proposals from the residences located to the east of the Site and to the north of Stoke Road will mostly be prevented owing to intervening existing substantial vegetation associated with the boundaries of these properties.

6.19 Effects upon residential receptors located along the Site’s southern boundary and along Stoke Road are therefore assessed as being Moderate Adverse in the short term, reducing to Moderate / Minor Adverse at 10 years.

6.20 Any potential views from properties along Chorister Crescent and Baryntyne Crescent associated with the eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh are likely to be prevented once housing associated with the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm comes forward. Further to this, views will

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

be further prevented by the retained and supplemented vegetation associated with the Site’s western boundary.

6.21 Effects upon residential receptors being Moderate / Minor Adverse in the short term, reducing to Minor Adverse / Negligible at Year 10.

6.22 Views towards the new attenuation basin within land to the south of the Site will most likely be limited to residents and workers at Yew Tree Lodge and residents of the single dwelling house on Stoke Road. Views will be obtained from rear upper floor windows and comprise distant glimpsed views of an attenuation basin seen beyond intervening vegetation. Owing to the distance at which the attenuation basin is located from existing residential receptors, it can be concluded that effects upon residential receptors being Minor Adverse / Negligible over the short and long term.

Public Rights of Way (PROW) and Other Footpaths

6.23 Views of the proposals will be gained from the network of PROWs located within close proximity to the Site.

6.24 Views of the proposals from Public Bridleway / Saxon Shore Way Recreation Route RS107 which runs north to south between Stoke Road and the A228 Peninsula Way, to the east of the Site will vary along its length. Full to partial views towards the Site and its boundaries are available from sections of the PRoW as it passes north of the Site’s north-eastern boundary. Where views of new housing within the Site occur from along the PRoW, these will comprise close to medium range views of rooflines filtered by intervening vegetation associated with the PRoW as well as that associated with the Site’s northern boundary. Additional planting along the Site’s northern boundary and within the adjacent strip of POS as well as to front of plots will further serve to soften views of built form as perceived by users of the PRoW as it passes north of the Site. Further north of the PRoW, views towards the Site and the proposals are interrupted by intervening landform and vegetation associated with the agricultural land which extends north of the Site. Further to this, vegetation associated with the reservoir to the south of Tile Barn Farm, as well as built form associated with the latter, serve to screen views towards the proposals along the PRoW.

6.25 Views of the proposals from Public Footpath RS112 which runs north to south between Stoke Road and the A228 adjacent to the housing development to the east of Bell’s Lane, to the west of the Site, vary along its length.

6.26 Full, partial and glimpsed views of the Site and its northern boundary vegetation can be gained from sections of the PRoW as its passes north of the Site’s north-western boundary, directly west of the housing off Rivenhall Way and Baryntyne Crescent. As the PROW extends away from the Site to the north, visual effects will also lessen as where views of the proposals occur these will be perceived at a distance and will comprise only a small amount of built form in the wider view. Further to this, views of the proposals will be partially interrupted by intervening landform and vegetation associated with the rising agricultural land and its boundaries as the PRoW passes further north of the Site.

6.27 Views of the proposals within close proximity to the Site’s northern boundary will comprise close to medium range views of rooflines associated with new housing within the Site. Proposed planting along the northern boundary as well as that proposed through the centre of the Site, will

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

serve to screen views of new housing within the Site. The internal hedgerow and tree planting running between the two Site compartments will serve to further screen and even prevent views towards housing within the south-east of the Site for users of the PRoW along the majority of its length.

6.28 Views of the Site are prevented as the PRoW passes adjacent to the western boundary of the adjoining field parcel associated with the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm owing to intervening boundary vegetation, post and wire fencing, motorhomes and caravans within the field parcel adjoining the Site to the west. Further south of the PRoW, views towards the Site area prevented by built form associated with the former commercial premises at Street Farm. Once the adjacent permitted development is in place, views towards new housing within the Site will be prevented by the new built form at Street Farm.

6.29 Similarly, views of the proposals vary from full views of the Site boundaries and partial to glimpsed views of the proposals within the Site for users travelling along PRoW RS98 as it passes parallel to the Site’s northern boundary through the agricultural land to the north. Views of new housing within the Site will comprise glimpsed views of rooflines seen beyond retained and proposed boundary vegetation along the northern Site boundary. Over time, as planting matures views of rooflines associated with new housing within the Site will be softened and screened in views from along the PRoW.

6.30 Proposed tree and hedgerow planting to Site boundaries and within the proposed GI will help mitigate visual effects in the long term. Overall effects upon PROWs RS107, RS98 and RS112 to the north of the Site are considered to be Moderate to Minor Adverse in the short term, reducing to Minor Adverse / Negligible in the long term.

6.31 Users of the PROWs network within the wider landscape to the north, south and east of the Site will have limited views of the proposals owing to intervening landform and vegetation associate with the surrounding agricultural field system as well as intervening built form.

6.32 Where views occur, these would comprise partial to glimpsed views towards a small amount of new housing within the Site parcels, perceived at some distance and within the context of the existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh, serving to extend the perception of built form slightly eastward in the view.

6.33 Housing will be set back from the Site’s eastern and southern boundary beyond areas of POS, incorporating SuDS and new tree planting as well as hedgerow and tree planting to Site boundaries. This will serve to mitigate visual effects upon the PROWs as it matures. Effects upon these PRoWs are considered to be no more than Moderate to Minor Adverse in the short term reducing to Minor Adverse to Negligible over the long term for more sensitive receptors. Less sensitive receptors are considered to be no more than Minor Adverse reducing to Negligible in the longer term.

Roads

6.34 Views of new housing within the Site will be available for vehicular users of Stoke Road as it passes adjacent to the Site’s southern boundary, becoming less visible further east and west of the road corridor due to intervening vegetation and existing built form. Similarly, views of the proposed attenuation basin within the land to the south of Stoke Road will be mostly visible to road users travelling along Stoke Road as it passes directly adjacent to its northern boundary.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

6.35 Where views of the proposals occur, these will mostly be perceived as the road passes directly adjacent with the Site’s southern boundary and comprise close to medium range views of new housing seen beyond new and retained boundary vegetation and existing built form on Stoke Road. For vehicular users travelling westwards along the road corridor, views of proposals will comprise mid-range views of new housing set beyond an area of POS and the main vehicular access road. The POS will incorporate new tree and hedgerow planting within areas of POS and along the Site’s eastern boundary and will retain the existing mature tree, serving to soften views of built form within the Site as perceived for those travelling westwards along the road corridor. Further to this, the proposals will be perceived in the context of the existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh, such that built form will come forward slightly in the view.

6.36 For vehicular users travelling eastwards, views of proposals will comprise partial to glimpsed views of rooflines associated with new housing within the Site, seen beyond existing housing on Stoke Road and proposed boundary vegetation along the southern boundary as well as within the Site. For instance, existing built form and associated vegetation located along the Site’s southern boundary, including White House Farm, will serve to effectively screen and filter views of new housing within the Site from this section of the road corridor. Proposed hedgerow and tree planting along the southern boundary will serve to soften views of new built form within the Site.

6.37 Furthermore, once the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm comes forward, built form will serve to prevent views towards new housing within the Site as perceived by road users travelling east along Stoke Road.

6.38 Overall visual effects as experienced by vehicular users of Stoke Road are considered to be no more than Moderate Adverse upon completion reducing to Minor Adverse at year 10.

6.39 Views towards the Site from road corridors in the wider landscape are predominately prevented due to intervening features including topography, built form and vegetation. Therefore, effects upon the wider road network are considered to be no more than Negligible in both the short term and long term.

6.40 The visual analysis has identified a number of points:

• The Site’s visual envelope is limited to the north and west owing to the presence of existing built form, vegetation and topography.

• Views to the east and south are more open and include residential receptors and road users, particularly those associated with Stoke Road as it passes adjacent to the Site’s boundaries. Proposed tree and hedgerow planting to the Site’s eastern and southern boundaries will generally help screen views of the new housing within the Site from these locations. Proposed development will be set back from the eastern and a section of the southern boundaries beyond areas of proposed POS including tree, shrub and hedgerow planting.

• There are few receptors that will have close range views of new housing within the Site. These are generally limited and include: users of the Saxon Shore Way Long Distance Route to the east; residents of properties to the north of Stoke Road, particularly residents of White House Farm and the detached dwelling house located directly adjacent to the Site along the southern boundary; and residents of the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm, once in place. Further to this, vehicular users of Stoke Road as it passes adjacent to the Sites southern boundary will perceive close to mid-range views of new housing within the Site set back beyond proposed boundary vegetation, POS and the proposed access road.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

• The proposals will be partially visible from residential properties to the east of Stoke Road and users of the PROW to the north-east through gaps in the intervening built form and vegetation, and glimpsed through the Site’s retained and supplemented boundary vegetation. Where views of proposed housing are permitted, new housing will be perceived set back from the Site’s eastern and south-eastern boundaries, beyond proposed POS and new planting.

• Within the wider landscape, there is a lack of publicly accessible elevated positions from which to gain views towards the Site.

• The extensive GI proposed throughout the Site will mitigate views from receptors within the local and wider landscape.

Cumulative Effects

6.41 There are a number of applications within the local area.

6.42 An application for outline planning application (Application ref: MC/15/00/98) referred to in this report as the ‘adjacent permitted development at Street Farm’, has gained approval with conditions from Medway District Council and relates to a parcel of land located immediately adjacent to the Site’s western boundary.

6.43 In summary, the approval of outline planning comprises: “redevelopment of former farm Site to provide a residential development of up to 50 dwellings (Use Class C3), open space, infrastructure, landscaping and associated works.”

6.44 Conditions relate to a number of points include details of layout, scale and appearance of buildings and landscape amongst other considerations.

6.45 An outline planning application with some matters reserved (appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) for up to 127 dwellings (Application ref: MC/16/28/37) has gained approval with conditions from Medway District Council and relates to a large arable field, partly dissected by a dry ditch located to the south of Stoke Road extending to 8.26 hectares, approximately 240m south-west of the Site’s nearest boundary. Conditions related to approval relate to matters of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale.

6.46 The current proposals, namely Land at Hoo St Werburgh comprise a modest amount of residential development and GI. The layout mirrors that of the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm (relating to application MC/15/00/98) in terms of scale, mass, density and arrangement, lending coherence to the adjacent developments. Connectivity between the two Sites will be enhanced, ensuring legibility and permeability between the two sites.

6.47 The current proposals lie at some distance from the approved residential development to the south of Stoke Road (MC/16/28/37) thereby retaining separation between the two sites, if both sites were to come forward. Development within the respective sites will be set back from Site boundaries beyond areas of POS and planting, serving to preserve an area of agricultural land between the two site’s and retain views (where these occur) towards the wider landscape to the south.

6.48 If the proposals were to come forward, it is unlikely that together they would contribute to the physical or perceived coalescence between neighbouring settlements as new development is proposed in locations closely associated with the existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

6.49 Therefore, due to the close relationship with the existing developed edge, coherence with the adjacent permitted development and the small scale of the development proposed, namely up to 65 dwellings and associated POS, it is considered there would be limited combined or sequential cumulative effects arising as a result of the proposals.

7.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

7.1 This LVA accompanies an outline application for up to 65 dwellings, associated POS and GI, children’s play, and two attenuation features located within the POS to the east and south of the Site and a further surface water attenuation facility will be located within land located at some distance within the field network to the south of the Site and Stoke Road.

7.2 The Site is situated along the eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh, adjacent to a number of residential properties along Stoke Road. The adjacent permitted development at Street Farm lies immediately adjacent to the Site’s western boundary.

7.3 The Site to the north of Stoke Road comprises two parcels, one divided into paddocks for horses and the other used for motorhome and caravan storage. Land located directly south of Stoke Road will be used to accommodate minor highway works and land to the south of the Site will be used to create a new surface water attenuation facility.

7.4 Site boundaries are partially contained by existing features including properties on Stoke Road, as well as sections of existing boundary vegetation and post and rail fencing. A mature tree lies within the POS to the east of the Site and a linear vegetation belt runs north to south through the interior of the Site. A TV mast and associated features lies within a field parcel immediately adjacent to the Site’s eastern boundary.

7.5 The Site is not subject to any national, local or other landscape designations and is characteristic of the local landscape, considered to be a relatively non-distinct landscape largely devoid of distinguishing landscape features.

7.6 Overall, the Site is considered to be of medium to low landscape value overall.

7.7 Within the County’s landscape character assessment, the Site is located within a LCA identified as being of moderate sensitivity owing to an indistinct landscape and a weak sense of place.

7.8 At the district scale, the Site is located within a LCA described as comprising a ‘Weak landscape structure, lack of distinctiveness and overall coherence’ as well as comprising ‘Many detracting features’.

7.9 Positive characteristics of the Site character include the existing boundary vegetation where present, a large mature tree within the eastern portion of the Site retained and incorporated into the landscape proposals for the Site, as well as the gently sloping landform within the Site. These features will be retained and incorporated into the overall design of the scheme. The proposed GI for the scheme includes POS, hedgerow and tree planting, proposed footpaths, play and several attenuation basins. This GI will introduce new habitats and features which will bring beneficial effects to the landscape of the Site.

7.10 Landscape effects on the Site and the immediate context are considered to be Moderate / Minor Adverse on completion, reducing to no more than Minor Adverse at maturity with some beneficial effects to the landscape and features comprising the Site.

Land at Hoo St Werburgh - Landscape & Visual Appraisal fpcr

7.11 Effects on character areas identified at national, regional, County and District level range from Minor Adverse/Negligible at completion depending on the scale and location of the character areas. Effects will be mitigated as proposed GI within the Site matures resulting in no more than Minor Adverse / Negligible effects at year 10 with some beneficial effects on landscape character arising due to the proposals.

7.12 The visual analysis has identified a number of points including:

• There are few receptors, which will have close range views of the proposals.

• The Site’s visual envelope is limited to the immediate local landscape surrounding the Site and extends to users and residents of Stoke Road to the south and users of the PROWs to the north-west and north-east, as a result of existing intervening built form, landform and vegetation cover. In addition, the proposals may be partially visible from selected points along the PROW network and road corridors within the wider landscape to the north, south and east of the Site, where gaps in intervening vegetation and landform permit views of the Site.

• Limited glimpses of the proposals may be gained from properties to the north-west of the Site such as those along Baryntyne, Chorister Crescent, Rivenhall Way and Headstock Rise as well as future residents of the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm, afforded through gaps in intervening built form and vegetation.

• There is a degree of intervisibility between the Site and the wider landscape to the south, comprising long distance views across farm land as it descends to meet with the River Medway, perceived from isolated locations along the Saxon Shore Way long distance route to the east of Vicarage Lane Industrial Estate.

• The extensive GI proposed throughout the Site and along its boundaries will effectively mitigate views from receptors in the local and wider landscape. Further to this, proposed development will be set back from the eastern and southern boundaries beyond areas of POS, new tree planting and attenuation features. Further tree and hedgerow planting is proposed within areas of POS and along Site boundaries, serving to set development within a robust structural landscape which will soften the appearance of new built form in views from the surrounding landscape.

• Visual effects are considered to be no more than Moderate Adverse on adjacent sensitive receptors. Generally, other less sensitive receptors are considered to experience no greater than Moderate to Minor visual effects.

7.13 Whilst there would inevitably be some adverse landscape and visual effects at completion, it is judged that the effects of the proposed development would be localised and limited in terms of geographical extent and perceived in the context of the existing built edge associated with Hoo St Werburgh.

7.14 Therefore, it is considered that the Site and local landscape have the capacity to accommodate development of the scale and nature proposed. The proposed development of up to 65 dwellings and associated GI, minor highway works to the south of Stoke Road as well as use of land to the south of the Site for the creation of an attenuation basin, would be appropriate within this landscape context and the effects as a result of the proposed development would not give rise to any unacceptable landscape and visual harm.

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FIGURES

[Page left intentionally blank] This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.

Site Boundary

*Study area lies entirely within Medway Unitary Authority

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Stoke Road Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr SITE LOCATION

scale drawn issue date N 1:20000 @ A3 CA/ KMN November 2017 500m 1000m drawing / figure number rev

500m 1000m FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 1 A masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Site Boundary

80m - 85m AOD

75m - 80m AOD

70m - 75m AOD

65m - 70m AOD

60m - 65m AOD

55m - 60m AOD

50m - 55m AOD

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-5mm - 0m AOD

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Stoke Road Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr TOPOGRAPHY

scale drawn issue date N 1:20000 @ A3 CA/ KMN November 2017 drawing / figure number rev

500m 1000m FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 2 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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14 12 Site Boundary 11 Urban and Industrial Areas Medway Unitary Authority 113 National Character Area Profiles (NCA)*

*Entire study area located within NCA 113 - North Kent Plain

Landscape Character Assessment of Kent 15 (2004) Hoo St Werburgh Hoo Peninsula

Medway Marshes 19 16 Medway Landscape Character Assessment (Medway Council, 2011) 04 04 4. Hoo Flats

17 11 11. Hoo Penisula Farmland

12 12. Lower Stoke Farmland

14 14. Chattenden Ridge 18 16 16. Hoo Farmland

17 17. Cockham Farm Ridge

18 18. Hogmarsh Valley

19 19. Bald Top Hill

20 20 20. Tower Hill

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Stoke Road Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr LANDSCAPE CHARACTER

scale drawn issue date N 1:20000 @ A3 CA/ KMN November 2017 drawing / figure number rev

500m 1000m FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 3 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Site Boundary

Scheduled Monument *Saved Policy BNE20 Medway Unitary Authority Listed Buildings *Saved Policy BNE18

xxxx

Hoo St RAMSAR / SPA (Special Protection Area) Werburgh • Medway Estuary & Marshes *Saved Policy BNE35

Site of Special Scientific Interest / International and National Nature Conservation Sites *Saved Policy BNE35

Areas of Local Landscape Importance *Saved Policy BNE34

Protection of Open Space *Saved Policy L3

Residential Allocations *Saved Policy H1

*Medway Local Plan (Adopted 14th May 2003) - Saved Policies; *Medway Emerging New Local Plan (2012-2035)

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Stoke Road Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr LANDSCAPE RELATED DESIGNATIONS

scale drawn issue date N 1:20000 @ A3 CA/ KMN November 2017 drawing / figure number rev

500m 1000m FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 4 - masterplanning environmental500m assessment1000m landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Roper’s Lane Saxon Shore Way Medway Unitary Roper’s Green Lane Authority Site Boundary

Primary Roads

Secondary Roads

Saxon Shore Way Stoke Road Public Rights Of Way (PROWs)

Hoo St Bell’s Lane Werburgh Stoke Road

Saxon Shore Way

Stoke Road

Bell’s Lane

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh Main Road drawing title fpcr AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH

scale drawn issue date N 1:5000 @ A3 CA/ KMN July 2017 drawing / figure number rev

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 5 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Site Boundary 13

O 14 1 Viewpoint Location

D 12 A Visual Receptors E 7 5 F E D A - Residents on Stoke Road 4 B - Road users of Stoke Road as it passes adjacent to Site G 6 N 11 C - Residents and care workers at Yew Tree Lodge (residential 3 care home) to the south-east of the Site 2 C D - Pedestrian users of PRoW 107 / Saxon Shore Way 1 B E - Pedestrian users of PRoW RS98 / Saxon Shore Way A F - Pedestrian users of PRoW RS112 M 10 G - Residents of housing to east of Bell’s Lane H - Residents of housing on Abbots Court Rd & Butt Haw Close I - Pedestrian users of RS351B / Saxon Shore Way J - Pedestrian users of RS100 / Saxon Shore Way

9 K - Workers and visitors Vicarage Lane Industrial Estate H I L - Pedestrian users of RS49 / Saxon Shore Way 8 M - Pedestrian users of RS95 N - Vehicular users travelling north along Jacob’s Lane O - Vehicular users travelling south along Roper’s Lane

K 15 16 L

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Stoke Road Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr VIEWPOINT LOCATION PLAN

scale drawn issue date N 1:20000 @ A3 CA/ KMN November 2017 drawing / figure number rev

500m 1000m FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 6 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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[Page left intentionally blank] This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised Approx. Extent of Site Land to south of Stoke Road person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.

House on Stoke Road White House Farm Dwelling on south boundary

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 1: View looking northeast from Stoke Road.

Land to south of Stoke Road Approx. Extent of Site

White House Farm Dwelling on south Site boundary Vegetation within Site Mature tree within Site TV Mast Stoke Road Yew Tree Lodge

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 2A: View looking north from Stoke Road, adjacent to southern Site boundary. client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 1 & 2A

scale drawn issue date NTS @ A3 MDP / CA November 2017 *‘Approximate Site Extents’ and ‘Approximate location of Site’ refers to the location of proposed development and unless otherwise stated, includes ‘Land to the south of Stoke Road’. drawing / figure number rev

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 1 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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[Page left intentionally blank] This drawing is the property of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd and is issued on the condition it is not reproduced, retained or disclosed to any unauthorised Approximate Extents of Land to south of Stoke Road person, either wholly or in part without written consent of FPCR Environment and Design Ltd.

Yew Tree Gate along northern boundary to land to south of Site Stoke Road Lodge

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 2B: View looking south from Stoke Road, opposite the Site’s southern boundary.

Land to south of Stoke Road Approximate Extents of Site Saxon TV Mast Shore Way Dwelling on south Site boundary Stoke Road

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 3: View looking northwest from Stoke Road, adjacent to Yew Tree Lodge Residential Home. client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 2B & 3

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 2 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Approximate Site Extents*

TV Mast Vegetation on Site’s north boundary Settlement Edge

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 4: View looking southwest from PROW RS107 / Saxon Shore Way, adjacent to TV mast.

River Medway and TV Mast Eastern edge of Hoo Landscape to south PROW RS107 Approximate Site Extents* St Werburgh PROW RS98

Dwelling on Site’s southern boundary

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 5: View looking southwest from the junction between PROW RS98 and RS107, south of Tile Barn Farm. client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 4 & 5

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 3 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Approximate Site Extents* Kingsnorth High Voltage Pylons TV Mast Power Station Southern boundary PROW RS98 and Lines vegetation River Medway PROW RS112

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 6: View looking southeast from PROW RS112 as it passes adjacent to eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh.

Approximate Site Extents* Eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh Kingsnorth TV Mast Dense vegetation to PRoW Power Station north of Site

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 7: View looking southeast further north along PROW RS112 as it passes adjacent to eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh. client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINTS 6 & 7

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 4 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Approximate Site Extents* PROW RS351 / Kingsnorth Power Housing on Stoke Road Street Farm TV Mast to east of Site Saxon Shore Way Station

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 8: View looking northeast from Saxon Shore Way adjacent to Abbots Court Road.

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINT 8

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Approximate Site Extents* PROW RS351B Saxon Shore Way PROW RS96 Cut Line

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 9: View looking north from RS351B / Saxon Shore Way / Abbots Court Road as it passes between Vicarage Lane and Abbots Court.

PROW RS351B TV Mast to east of Site Housing on Stoke Road Saxon Shore Way Cut Line

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 9: Continued. client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINT 9

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 6 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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PRoW RS95 Abbot Court Lodge Hoo St Werburgh Cut Line

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 10: View looking northwest from PROW RS95 to the east of Abbots Court Lodge.

Approximate Site Extents* Houses on TV Mast Stoke Road HV Power Lines

Dwelling on south boundary Cut Line

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 10: Continued client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINT 10

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 7 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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High Voltage Spire of Hoo St Jacob’s Lane electricity pylons Werburgh Church Cut Line

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 11: View looking northwest from Jacob’s Lane, northwest of Kingsnorth Power Station and Industrial Estate.

Approximate location of Site (beyond vegetation)* Vegetation at Abbots Jacob’s Lane TV Mast Court Reservoir Stoke Road Cut Line

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 11: Continued client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINT 11

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 8 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Approximate location of Site beyond vegetation and landform* RS98 / Roper’s River TV Mast Church Vegetation around Saxon Lane Medway Hoo Fort Spire Reservoir Shore Way RS107

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 12: View looking southwest from the Saxon Shore Way / PRoW RS98 as it passes between Roper’s Lane and Tile Barn.

Roper’s River Landscape to TV Mast Approx. Location Tile Barn Vegetation along Eastern Private Access Lane Medway south of Site* Farm RS107 Settlement Edge Track

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 13: View looking southwest from the access track off Roper’s Lane. client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINT 12 & 13

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 9 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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PROW River TV Mast Approximate Site Extents* Settlement RS107 Medway Edge House on south boundary

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 14: View looking southwest from north of PROW RS107. Houses on Approximate location of Site Abbots Court Road (beyond vegetation)* Church Spire PRoW Houses on HV powerlines TV Mast RS100 Stoke Road

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 15: View looking northeast from PROW RS100 / Saxon Shore Way as it passes south of houses off Abbots Court Road. client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINT 14 & 15

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 10 masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Approximate location of Site (beyond intervening vegetation)* Industrial Buildings PROW RS49 / Spire of Hoo St off Vicarage Lane Saxon Shore Way Werburgh Church TV Mast River Medway

PHOTO VIEWPOINT 16: View looking north from PRoW RS49 / Saxon Shore Way to the east of Vicarage Lane Industrial Estate.

client Dean Lewis Estates

project Land at Hoo St Werburgh

drawing title fpcr PHOTO VIEWPOINT 16

FPCR Environment and Design Ltd, Lockington Hall, Lockington, Derby, DE74 2RH t: 01509 672772 f: 01509 674565 e: [email protected] w: www.fpcr.co.uk Figure 11 - masterplanning environmental assessment landscape design urban design ecology architecture arboriculture

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Appendix A Landscape and Visual Appraisal – Methodology and Assessment Criteria

Introduction

The methodology for the Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA) undertaken for the proposed development is detailed in the LVA report. The following information should be read in conjunction with this methodology.

As advised in the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (3rd Edition) (GLVIA3), the judgements made in respect of both landscape and visual effects are a combination of an assessment of the sensitivity of the receptor and the magnitude of the landscape or visual effect. The following details the definitions and criteria used in assessing sensitivity and magnitude for landscape and visual receptors.

Where it is determined that the assessment falls between or encompasses two of the defined criteria terms, then the judgement may be described as High/ Medium or Moderate/ Minor etc. This indicates that the assessment lies between the respective definitions or encompasses aspects of both.

Landscape

Landscape Sensitivity

Landscape receptors are assessed in terms of their ‘Landscape Sensitivity’. This combines judgements on the value to be attached to the landscape and the susceptibility to change of the landscape from the type of change or development proposed. The definition and criteria adopted for these contributory factors is detailed below.

There can be complex relationships between the value attached to landscape receptors and their susceptibility to change which can be especially important when considering change within or close to designated landscapes. For example, an internationally, nationally or locally valued landscape does not automatically or by definition have a high susceptibility to all types of change. The type of change or development proposed may not compromise the specific basis for the value attached to the landscape.

Landscape Value

Value can apply to a landscape area as a whole, or to the individual elements, features and aesthetic or perceptual dimensions which contribute to the character of the landscape. The following criteria have been used to categorise landscape value. Where there is no clear existing evidence on landscape value, an assessment is made based on the criteria/ factors identified below (based on the guidance in GLVIA3 paragraph 5.28, Box 5.1).

• Landscape quality (condition) • Conservation interest • Scenic quality • Recreation value • Rarity • Perceptual aspects • Representativeness • Associations

Landscape Value Definition

High Landscape receptors of high importance based upon factors of quality, rarity, representativeness, conservation interest, recreational value, perceptual qualities and associations.

Medium Landscape receptors of medium importance based upon factors of quality, rarity, representativeness, conservation interest, recreational value, perceptual qualities and associations.

Low Landscape receptors of low importance based upon factors of quality, rarity, representativeness, conservation interest, recreational value, perceptual qualities and associations.

Landscape Susceptibility to Change

This means the ability of the landscape receptor (overall character type/ area or individual element/ feature) to accommodate the proposed development without undue consequences for the maintenance of the baseline position and/ or the achievement of landscape planning policies and strategies. The definition and criteria for the assessment of Landscape Susceptibility to Change is as follows:

Landscape Definition Susceptibility to Change

High A highly distinctive and cohesive landscape receptor, with positive characteristics and features and no or very few detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features intact and in very good condition and/ or rare. Limited capacity to accept the type of change/ development proposed.

Medium Distinctive and more commonplace landscape receptor, with some positive characteristics/ features and some detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features in moderate condition. Capacity to accept well planned and designed change/ development of the type proposed.

Low Landscape receptor of mixed character with a lack of coherence and including detracting or intrusive elements. Landscape features that may be in poor or improving condition and few that could not be replaced.

Greater capacity to accept the type of change/ development proposed.

Magnitude of Landscape Effects

The magnitude of landscape effects is the degree of change to the landscape receptor in terms of its size or scale of change, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. The table below sets out the categories and criteria adopted in respect of the separate considerations of Scale or Size of the Degree of Change and Reversibility. The geographical extent and duration of change are described where relevant in the appraisal.

Scale or Size of the Degree of Landscape Change

Scale or Size of the Definition Degree of Landscape Change

High Total loss of or substantial alteration to key characteristics / features and the introduction of new elements totally uncharacteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be fundamentally changed.

Medium Partial loss of or alteration to one or more key characteristics / features and the introduction of new elements that would be evident but not necessarily uncharacteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be obviously changed.

Low Limited loss of, or alteration to one or more key characteristics/ features and the introduction of new elements evident and/ or characteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be perceptibly changed.

Negligible Very minor alteration to one or more key characteristics/ features and the introduction of new elements characteristic to the receiving landscape. Overall landscape receptor will be minimally changed.

None No loss or alteration to the key characteristics/ features, representing ‘no change’.

Reversibility

Reversibility Definition

Irreversible The development would be permanent and the assessment site could not be returned to its current/ former use.

Reversible The development could be deconstructed/ demolished and the assessment site could be returned to broadly its current/ historic use (although that may be subject to qualification depending on the nature of the development).

Visual

Sensitivity of Visual Receptors

Visual sensitivity assesses each visual receptor in terms of their susceptibility to change in views and visual amenity and also the value attached to particular views. The definition and criteria adopted for these contributory factors is detailed below.

Visual Susceptibility to Change

The susceptibility of different visual receptors to changes in views and visual amenity is mainly a function of; firstly, the occupation or activity of people experiencing the view at particular locations; and secondly, the extent to which their attention or interest may therefore be focussed on the views and visual amenity they experience. Visual Definition Susceptibility to Change

High Residents at home with primary views from ground floor/garden and upper floors.

Public rights of way/ footways where attention is primarily focussed on the landscape and on particular views.

Visitors to heritage assets or other attractions whose attention or interest is likely to be focussed on the landscape and/ or on particular views.

Communities where views make an important contribution to the landscape setting enjoyed by residents.

Travellers on recognised scenic routes.

Medium Residents at home with secondary views (primarily from first floor level).

Public rights of way/ footways where attention is not primarily focussed on the landscape and/ or particular views.

Travellers on road, rail or other transport routes.

Low Users of outdoor recreational facilities where the view is less important to the activities (e.g. sports pitches).

Travellers on road, rail or other transport where views are primarily focussed on the transport route.

People at their place of work where views of the landscape are not important to the quality of the working life.

Value of Views

The value attached to a view takes account of any recognition attached to a particular view and/ or any indicators of the value attached to views, for example through guidebooks or defined viewpoints or references in literature or art.

Value of Views Definition

High A unique or identified view (eg. shown as such on Ordnance Survey map, guidebook or tourist map) or one noted in literature or art. A view where a heritage asset makes an important contribution to the view.

Medium A typical and/ or representative view from a particular receptor.

Low An undistinguished or unremarkable view from a particular receptor.

Magnitude of Visual Effects

Magnitude of Visual Effects evaluates each of the visual effects in terms of its size or scale, the geographical extent of the area influenced and its duration and reversibility. The table below sets out the categories and criteria adopted in respect of the Scale or Size (including the degree of contrast) of Visual Change. The distance and nature of the view and whether the view will be permanent or transient are also detailed in the Visual Effects Table. Scale or Size of the Definition Degree of Visual Change

High The proposal will result in a large and immediately apparent change in the view, being a dominant and new and/ or incongruous feature in the landscape.

Medium The proposal will result in an obvious and recognisable change in the view and will be readily noticed by the viewer.

Low The proposal will constitute a minor component of the wider view or a more recognisable component that reflects those apparent in the existing view.

Awareness of the proposals will not have a marked effect on the overall nature of the view.

Negligible/ None Only a very small part of the proposal will be discernible and it will have very little or no effect on the nature of the view.

Level of Effect

The final conclusions on effects, whether adverse or beneficial, are drawn from the separate judgements on the sensitivity of the receptors and the magnitude of the effects. This overall judgement is formed from a reasoned professional overview of the individual judgements against the assessment criteria.

GLVIA3 notes, at paragraphs 5.56 and 6.44, that there are no hard and fast rules with regard to the level of effects, therefore the following descriptive thresholds have been used for this appraisal:

• Major: A Major landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Moderate: A Moderate landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Minor: A Minor landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change;

• Negligible: A Negligible landscape or visual effect based on an evaluation of the susceptibility and value of the receptor, combined with the magnitude of change.

Where it is determined that the assessment falls between or encompasses two of the defined criteria terms, then the judgement may be described as, for example, Major/ Moderate or Moderate/ Minor. This indicates that the effect is assessed to lie between the respective definitions or to encompass aspects of both.

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APPENDIX B

[Page left intentionally blank] National Character 113. North Kent Plain Area profile: Supporting documents

www.gov.uk/natural-england

1 National Character 113. North Kent Plain Area profile: Supporting documents

Summary

The North Kent Plain National Character Area (NCA) is the strip of land between A small proportion of the area (2.4 per cent) falls within the Kent Downs Area of the Thames Estuary to the north and the chalk of the Kent Downs to the south. Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). International and European designated sites The area is open, low and gently undulating. It is a very productive agricultural are associated in the main with coastal habitats, with four Special Protection area with predominantly high-quality, fertile loam soils characterised by arable Areas (SPAs), two Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and four Ramsar sites use. Traditional orchards, soft fruits and other horticultural crops exist in central identified along the coast, falling either wholly or partially within the NCA. There and eastern areas giving rise to the use of the title ‘Garden of England’. There is are three inland sites: Stodmarsh SAC, SPA and Ramsar; Blean Woods SAC; and an extensive area of ancient woodland around Blean, plus significant ancient Queendown Warren SAC. The River Stour is the main catchment in the NCA, with woodlands further west. However, it is generally an open landscape: characteristic its tributaries and associated wetlands being an important feature in the east. shelterbelts occur within the fruit-growing areas, but the agricultural land is mostly The Medway dissects the NCA in the west, dominated by the urban conurbations devoid of hedgerows. of Chatham and Gillingham, with its strong historic military associations.

The NCA meets the sea between Whitstable and Deal, changing from a north- This NCA is important for food production and associated services (such as soil facing to an east- or south-facing shore. There is a great diversity of coastal habitats, and water regulation and management) that help to protect the area’s natural including chalk cliffs around Thanet, and soft cliffs between Herne Bay and assets. In addition, flood protection is an important consideration along the Reculver – and also at Pegwell Bay. There are also areas of intertidal sand and mud, rivers and coastline. The NCA has significant opportunities for tourism and salt marshes (especially at Pegwell Bay), sand dunes (notably Sandwich Bay), shingle recreation. Green infrastructure opportunities are important for securing beaches (at Minnis Bay and near Deal), brackish lagoons and maritime grasslands benefits to local communities, especially through the provision of accessible on cliff-tops and sea walls. natural green space in urban areas. Development pressures (and the associated infrastructure) are likely to present significant challenges as the area responds The area has a strong urban influence, with several built-up areas, including coastal to an increasing population and the demands of economic development and a towns and these occupy a substantial part of the area with significant development changing climate. In response to these challenges, around London and the Medway towns, which has a strong influence in the it will be important to maximise the opportunities west of the NCA. Canterbury is world-renowned, and was designated as a World for society and the natural environment in a Heritage Site in 1988. The Site includes Canterbury Cathedral and Precincts, St balanced and co-ordinated manner. Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s church. These are all considered milestones in the religious history of England, and are also architecturally significant4.

4 Canterbury World Heritage Site, Statement of Outstanding Universal Value (SOUV), English Heritage Click map to enlarge; click again to reduce.

3 National Character 113. North Kent Plain Area profile: Supporting documents

Key characteristics

■ An open, low and gently undulating landscape, characterised by high- ■ Woodland occurs on the higher ground around Blean and in quality, fertile, loamy soils dominated by agricultural land uses. smaller blocks to the west, much of it ancient and of high nature conservation interest. ■ The area’s geology is dominated by Palaeogene clays and sands, underlain by the Chalk. ■ The Stour and its tributaries are important features of the eastern part of the NCA, draining eastwards into the North Sea, with associated ■ Geologically a chalk outlier – and historically an island separated from wetland habitats including areas of grazing marsh, reedbeds, lagoons the mainland by a sea channel – Thanet forms a discrete and distinct and gravel pits. The River Medway cuts through the NCA as it flows area that is characterised by its unity of land use, arising from the high- into the Thames Estuary. quality fertile soils developed in thin drift deposits over chalk. ■ Other semi-natural habitats include fragments of neutral, ■ A diverse coastline (both in nature and orientation), made up of cliffs, calcareous and acid grassland, and also heathland. intertidal sand and mud, salt marshes, sand dunes and shingle beaches. Much of the coastal hinterland has been built on, and the coast itself has ■ The area has rich evidence of human activity from the Palaeolithic been modified through the construction of sea walls, harbours and piers. period. Key heritage assets include Roman sites at Canterbury, Reculver and Richborough; the Historic Dockyard at Chatham; ■ Large arable/horticultural fields with regular patterns and rectangular military remains along the coast; and historic parks and buildings. shapes predominating, and a sparse hedgerow pattern. ■ Large settlements and urban infrastructure (including lines of ■ Orchards and horticultural crops characterise central and eastern areas, pylons) are often visually dominant in the landscape, with significant and are often enclosed by poplar or alder shelterbelts and scattered development around Greater London and the Medway Towns, as small woodlands. well as around towns further east and along the coast. Major rail and road links connect the towns with London.

6 National Character 113. North Kent Plain Area profile: Supporting documents

SEO 4: Protect and enhance the strong character and heritage of the urban areas. Plan for the creation of significant new areas of green space and green corridors to provide a framework for new and existing development in urban areas and along major transport routes.

For example, by: ■ Protecting, celebrating and promoting the heritage of the urban areas ■ Creating or safeguarding extensive areas of multi-functional green space to the west of the NCA, including the strong maritime and military – within and surrounding both towns and identified new development associations of the Medway and its significant role in the area’s industrial areas. These areas should include attractive new wetlands that form part past, present and future. Engaging communities with their local history of sustainable urban drainage systems and link into the heart of urban and strengthening the physical links with the important historic areas as part of green infrastructure planning. landscapes that surround them. ■ Targeted planting of areas of broadleaved woodland, building the urban ■ Seeking to maintain and enhance areas of open countryside in the heavily and peri-urban green infrastructure around towns where appropriate urbanised west of the NCA, to preserve the distinct settlement pattern. – particularly Dartford, Gravesend and Medway, but also Bromley and ■ Restoring and appropriately managing disused mineral workings and Bexley. These woodlands may provide a screening function and a further landfill sites, integrating them into the landscape through the extensive recreational resource, as well as a local source of wood fuel (where creation of semi-natural habitats (benefitting landscape and biodiversity), managed through coppicing). In addition, conserving the existing urban while retaining exposures of geological importance and providing a treescape and seeking opportunities for urban tree planting, helping to recreational resource. regulate climate change. ■ Maintaining important inland geology exposed in pits and quarries, for ■ Creating community allotments and potentially developing large example the dry mineral workings at Swanscombe, helping to promote community orchards on the edge of urban areas. an appreciation and understanding of the geodiversity of the NCA, and ■ Supporting the design of landscapes associated with new development connecting communities with their local heritage. and green infrastructure within Greater London. ■ Ensuring that development and its associated infrastructure does not ■ Conserving Canterbury’s historic character and setting, retaining long intrude on the special qualities of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding views to the cathedral (a World Heritage Site), and maintaining a strong Natural Beauty (AONB) to the south and landscape character within sense of place and history. the AONB and its setting should be conserved, restored, reinforced or created as appropriate to reflect the ambitions of the Kent Downs AONB Management Plan.

18 The Landscape Assessment of Kent

October 2004 1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Kentish landscape has evolved over many hundreds of years. It has been created by the interaction of the natural environment and human activities, in particular the combination of physical, biological and cultural influences. Physical influences such as geology and landform, together with the overlying pattern of settlement and land use are key determinants of landscape character.

The Landscape Assessment of Kent is a landscape character based study that draws together existing landscape character assessments of the county. It also updates these to conform to the current guidance using judgments based on condition and sensitivity to promote a vision for each area.

The objective is to ensure that decisions on the rural landscape are underpinned by a robust and widely accepted assessment of the landscape character. The challenge is to find ways of identifying the important characteristics of the landscape that assist the process of accommodating change, where this is both desirable and practicable, whilst maintaining the links with the past and the natural environment. There is a need to retain pattern and diversity in the landscape to ensure that character and local distinctiveness are maintained. This is not necessarily about keeping the landscape as it is but is more about preventing everywhere becoming the same. In addition we need to ensure that landscapes are visually satisfying and give enjoyment to those who visit them and those who live and work in them.

Many of the judgments regarding landscapes are subjective, which means that they are open to equally valid but different individual interpretations. The process of landscape assessment has to resolve this matter and has evolved so that current practice is now based on a logical and well thought out procedure. This procedure breaks down the analysis into the component parts that collectively make up the landscape as we know it. It is a logical process that enables decisions to be revisited over time as well as enabling different assessors to understand and contribute to the decisions reached.

In recent years landscape characterisation has increased in importance as a tool for countryside planning policy. National policy guidance within Planning Policy Statement 7 (PPS7) promotes the character approach in order to offer more tailored guidance for the whole of the countryside, including less popular and damaged landscapes.

1.1 DEVELOPING THE LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT OF KENT

1.1.1 Landscape Character

Local character areas have previously been identified across the county. These are described in the following reports that are collectively referred to as the Landscape Assessment of Kent.

• The High Weald (1994) • The Kent Downs (1995) • Thames Gateway, Eastern Swale Marshes and Eastern Fruit Belt (1995) • The Low Weald Landscape Assessment & Guidelines (1997) • The Greensand Belt Landscape Assessment & Guidelines (1998) • North West Kent Landscape Assessment & Guidelines (1998) • North East Kent Landscape Assessment & Guidelines (1998) • Romney Marsh Landscape Assessment & Guidelines (1998)

These studies were undertaken over a number of years whilst landscape assessment methodologies were developing and therefore there is a need to bring them together on the same basis and update them to conform to the current landscape assessment guidance. The character area boundaries were revisited and minor amendments have been made to the boundaries to align them with features on the ground. These minor revisions, along with the condition and sensitivity study described below, were subject to a consultation with district councils in September 2000.

This document repeats the landscape character descriptions in the above documents so that the whole county can be viewed in a consistent format in one report. Some minor editing has been undertaken to obtain consistency throughout the document and to update development proposals, such as the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, that were referred to as proposed or under construction in the original texts and are now built.

1.1.2 Landscape Condition and Sensitivity

The condition and sensitivity study of the Kent landscape aims to formulate character- based strategies to ensure the continued distinctiveness of the Kent landscape. It is written with the intention of the specific landscape aims being used in a variety of forward planning strategies, in land management schemes and in planning control.

Field Evaluation Sheets have been used to analyse the component factors of the landscape to reach a series of decisions on the:

• visual unity • ecological integrity • condition of heritage features • cultural integrity • contribution of built form • time-depth and distinctiveness of features • visibility

This information has been written up as a summary of issues for all character areas and includes a landscape ‘vision’ or ‘strategy’ that directly reflects the condition and sensitivity of the area. These reports are supplementary to existing landscape character descriptions.

The conclusions reached for each of the character areas are expressed using a matrix that encompasses Condition and Sensitivity, generating a broad indication of what the strategy for the area might be. The detail of the draft strategies has been formulated by cross- referencing

• existing character information • the findings of the field evaluation sheets (i.e. - what exactly is in poor condition or is highly sensitive?, what can be enhanced or created or conserved to ensure a distinctive landscape?) • existing biodiversity targets • strategies of adjacent areas • historic landscape character information

This systematic process of evaluation not only clarifies how judgements have been made, it also allows re-interrogation of the decisions as they are being made, and subsequent updating if the landscape changes. Guidelines are offered which are locally appropriate to the character area and respond to the generic strategies that have been identified. Many of these strategies are not likely to be within the remit of the Local Authority to implement directly as they are not responsible for managing the land in most cases. Such references have been included with a view to influencing opinions, generating support and guiding policy.

1.1.3 Other Initiatives/datasets/studies

A number of other County Council projects and initiatives have informed this project:

• Kent Historic Landscape Characterisation Study • Kent Habitat Capability Study • Kent Habitat Survey 2003 • Kent Lifescapes Information System

Since completion of the Landscape Assessment of Kent, Kent County Council has subscribed to the Living Landscapes Project. The aim of this project is to identify homogenous landscape description units (LDUs) based on national datasets for natural and cultural attributes. These LDUs provide a further layer of landscape data that is complementary to the landscape character areas. In many instances a character area will be an amalgam of a number of LDUs , on others the LDUs will be divided into a number of character areas. This reflects changes in local cultural and visual attributes that would not be reflected in national datasets. These LDUs are being used to identify biodiversity opportunities.

In the next few years the Kent & Medway Structure Plan will provide the strategic planning framework, guiding decisions on development, transport and environmental matters across Kent and Medway. Once adopted it is anticipated Plan policies will promote the use of character assessment. Supplementary Planning Guidance will provide recommended guidelines to support the use of the landscape character policies.

1.1.4 Relationship to District Level Assessment

It should be noted the countywide studies offer a broad-brush, strategic approach and are written with the intention that detailed local studies should be undertaken to assess site specific proposals.

This broad-brush approach means that judgements made on individual areas will not necessarily focus on detail. For example, a character area may have pockets that are in better or worse condition, or higher or lower sensitivity. Judgements are therefore a summary of the overall picture.

Local landscape assessments undertaken at a district scale or for specific sites and areas can focus on a greater level of detail and therefore give more targeted information. Other guidance on landscape character is available in Village and Parish Design Statements and, within Areas of Outstanding Beauty (AONB), in AONB Design Guides.

Generally, for development proposals, the most detailed / local landscape assessment should be referred to in the first instance. For example for a site specific proposal a district/unitary level assessment should be used, if this is not available then the countywide study will offer guidance. Conversely, when developing land based strategies at a regional scale a top down approach may be more appropriate. Eastern Thames Marshes

Western Thames Marshes

Western Thames Marshes Medway Marshes

Hoo Peninsula North Sheppey Dartford and Gravesend Fringes Dartford and Gravesend Fringes

Dartford and Gravesend Fringes Swanley Fringe Darenth Downs North Sheppey Swale Darenth Downs Shorne Medway Marshes Marshes Southfleet Arable Lands Swale Marshes Lower Darent Cobham: Thanet Medway Valley West Kent Downs Swanley Marshes Fringe Medway Marshes Swale Marshes

Swanley Fringe Thanet The East Kent Eastern Horticultural Belt Luddesdown: Scarp: Fruit Belt West Kent Downs Medway Ash Downs Eastern Medway Swale Valley Eastern Swale Marshes North Darent: Nashenden Valley: Marshes Lower Capstone Darent Valley Mid Kent Downs Downs Kent Downs - The Blean East Kent Medway, Kent Downs Horticultural Belt Western & - Medway, The Wantsum and Lower Stour Marshes Western & Kingdown: Eastern Scarp Eastern West Kent Downs The Western Scarp: Scarp The Stour Knockholt Chatham Outskirts: Mid Kent Downs Valley Downs Medway Eastern Fruit Belt Hollingbourne The Stour Knockholt: Vale West Valley Wrotham Heath Wrotham Heath-Ryarsh Gap Boxley Vale: Darent Valley Kemsing Vale Medway -Ryarsh Gap - Kent Downs Kemsing Vale East Kent Horticultural Belt North Kent Fruit Belt Greensand Fruit Belt Hollingbourne Vale West Darent: Bicknor: Mid Kent Downs Faversham Fruit Belt: - Malling West North Kent Fruit Belt Darent Valley Mid Kent Downs Mereworth North Kent Fruit Belt Greensand Ridge Woodlands - Plaxtol

Greensand The Stour Valley East Kent Arable Belt Ightham Greensand: Ridge - Plaxtol Sevenoaks Ridge Medway Westerham Greensand: Greensand Fruit Belt Valley Upper Greensand Fruit Belt Leeds-Lenham Sevenoaks Ridge - Wateringbury - Maidstone Farmlands Hollingbourne Eastern Low Weald: The Low Weald Challock: Mid Kent Downs Greensand Ridge Vale West Chilham: Valeside Farms - Plaxtol Stour Valley and Parklands Hollingbourne Coxheath Vale East Plateau Farmlands Western Low Weald: Hildenborough- Greensand Ridge The Low Weald Leigh Farmlands - Maidstone East Kent Arable Belt

Low Weald Fruit Belt Valeside Farms and Parklands Sutton Valence to Wye: Petham: East Kent Downs Pluckley Mixed Farmlands Western Wooded Farmlands Hollingbourne Stour Valley Hildenborough- Greensand Fruit Belt Vale - Egerton Leigh Farmlands Medway Valley Hothfield Heathy The Stour Farmlands - Stour Gap Elham: East Kent Downs Eden South Foreland Medway Valley Valley Staplehurst-Headcorn Pasturelands Low Weald Fruit Belt The Stour - Stour Valley Beult Valley Low Weald Fruit Belt Biddenden- Hampton: Pembury: Upper High Halden Stour Valley Stour Valley Central High Weald Kent Water: Teise Wooded Farmlands Upper Medway Penshurst: Valley Brabourne Central High Weald Vale Staplehurst-Headcorn Brabourne Lees Alkham: East Kent Downs Pasturelands Mixed Farmlands

Kent Fruit Belt: Mersham Kentish High Weald Bayham: Farmlands Stowting: Postling Vale Central High Weald Bethersden Farmlands Sissinghurst Wooded Farmlands Folkestone Outskirts: Sellindge Plateau Postling Vale Biddenden-High Halden Wooded Farmlands Upper Stour Valley Farmlands

Saltwood: Postling Vale Aldington Ridge Aldington: Lympne Old Romney Shoreline Wooded Farmlands Hythe Escarpment: Lympne Bewl and Bedgebury: Cranbrook: Kentish High Weald Kentish High Weald Romney Romney Marsh: Lympne Marsh Settlements

Shirley Romney Marsh Moor Settlements Romney Marsh Settlements Romney Marsh Mixed Farmlands Bodiam: Oxney: Lower Rother Valley Lower Rother Valley

Highknock Channel and Dowels

Brookland Farms The Romney Coast

Walland Marsh Farmlands

Dungeness Shingle Kent Character Area Map

0 5 10 20 Kilometres 3.0 KENT CHARACTER AREA REPORTS

Click on the map for a list of the Kent character area reports in this area

A full list of the Kent Character Areas is provided below. Click on the character area name to go straight to the report for that area. Each report is presented as two pages. The first page describes the character of the area. The second page summarises the condition and sensitivity of the area and offers guidance on what actions would be appropriate to protect and enhance the landscape character.

Click on the location map on the first page of the report to access the full Kent Character Area Map. Alternatively the reports can be accessed by going to the Kent Character Area Map and clicking on the appropriate area.

3.0 KENT CHARACTER AREA REPORTS

North West Kent Kent Downs AONB • Ash Downs • Aldington: Lympne • Darenth Downs • Alkham: East Kent Downs • Knockholt Downs • Bicknor: Mid Kent Downs • Lower Darent Valley • Boxley Vale: Medway • Southfleet Arable Lands • Challock: Mid Kent Downs • Swanley Fringe • Chatham Outskirts: Mid Kent Downs • Chilham: Stour Valley • Cobham: West Kent Downs Thames Gateway • Eastern Low Weald: The Low Weald • Capstone Downs • Elham: East Kent Downs • Dartford and Gravesend Fringes • Faversham Fruit Belt: Mid Kent Downs • Eastern Thames Marshes • Folkestone Outskirts: Postling Vale • Fruit Belt • Hampton: Stour Valley • Hoo Peninsula • Hollingbourne Vale • Medway Marshes • Hythe Escarpment: Lympne • North Sheppey • Ightham Greensand: Sevenoaks Ridge • Shorne • Kemsing Vale - Kent Downs AONB • Swale Marshes • Kingsdown: West Kent Downs • Western Thames Marshes • Knockholt: Darent Valley • Eastern Fruit Belt • Luddesdown: West Kent Downs • Eastern Swale Marshes • Nashenden Valley: Mid Kent Downs • North Darent: Darent Valley • Petham: East Kent Downs North East Kent • Romney Marsh: Lympne • East Kent Arable Belt • Saltwood: Postling Vale • East Kent Horticultural Belt • South Foreland • North Kent Fruit Belt • Stowting: Postling Vale • Thanet • The Eastern Scarp: Medway • The Blean • The Western Scarp: Medway • The Stour Valley • West Darent: Darent Valley • The Wantsum and Lower Stour Marshes • Westerham Greensand: Sevenoaks Ridge

• Western Low Weald: The Low Weald

• Wye: Stour Valley

HOO PENINSULA

Location map:

TheCHARACTER Hoo Peninsula AREA is DESCRIPTIONa discrete tract of landscape lying between the Thames and Medway estuaries and bounded at its western end by the urban edge of Gravesend and the North Downs at Shorne. Land uses are generally typical of other parts of the North Kent Agricultural Belt but a distinctive character results from its relative geographical isolation and the pervading influence of the coast and sea. The extensive coastal marshes and significant industrial landmarks of Grain and Kingsnorth are also influences on the character of this otherwise predominantly agricultural area.

Above the flat low-lying alluvial marshes to north and south, the undulating form of the Tertiary Beds is marked by a series of more prominent landform features. Within the central part of the peninsula, an outcrop of London Clay gives rise to an elevated complex of hills and valleys at Chattenden, which has a distinctive character of its own and creates a visual barrier between north and south. Other prominent features include Beacon Hill (also on the London Clay) the slopes of which drop steeply to the Medway Estuary on its southern side, and Northward Hill, which overlies the Thanet Sands and forms a prominent hill along the northern coastline.

Farmland is the predominant landcover but its character varies quite markedly. At the eastern end of the peninsula, the landscape is dominated by large-scale arable cultivation, largely devoid of trees or hedgerows. In contrast, Chattenden Ridge and other prominent hills are clothed in broadleaved woodland mixed with areas of pasture. To the west of the ridge, the farmed landscape has a more traditional pattern of orchards, shelterbelts, hedgerows and mixed cropping. However, the effects of Dutch Elm disease and the progressive loss of orchards are changing the landscape to a more simple, open character. This is more marked at the far west of the zone where open arable farmland once again becomes the predominant landcover type.

Settlement comprises scattered farms, small, rural villages (with some more recent extensions) and the larger settlement of Hoo St. Werburgh. The army barracks at Chattenden have a distinctive campus style character. Industrial land uses lie mainly within adjacent marshland areas and have significant influence on landscape character.

Apart from the fringing marshes (see Eastern Thames Marshes and Medway Marshes), the most important features of nature conservation importance within the peninsula are areas of broadleaved woodland. The wooded ridges of Chattenden, Northward Hill, Beacon Hill and Tower Hill are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, while other smaller fragments of woodland associated with these areas and near Fenn Street, are of county significance.

The Hoo Peninsula is best remembered as the home of Charles Dickens, at Gadshill. 'Great Expectations' was also set here. The River Medway and Upnor Castle were subjects of Turner's paintings and engravings in the 19th century. Notable buildings are Cooling Castle and Cliffe Church both dating from the 14th century. Cliffe Church was the setting for the opening scenes of Dickens' 'Great Expectations'.

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Prepared for Kent County Council by Jacobs Babtie HOO PENINSULA

PHOTOGRAPH CONTEXT Regional: Thames Gateway

Condition

CONSERVE & REINFORCE CONSERVE good REINFORCE

CREATE & CONSERVE & CONSERVE & moderate REINFORCE CREATE RESTORE

RESTORE & CREATE RESTORE CREATE poor

low moderate high CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES Prominent hills and low-lying alluvial marshes. Flat/undulating farmland. Decline in orchards and mixed farmland with shelterbelts. Sensitivity Intensive, open farmed arable land. Intrusive influence of industrial development.

LANDSCAPE ANALYSIS SUMMARY OF ANALYSIS Condition Condition Poor.

There is very little coherent landscape pattern here. Visual detractors in the landscape occur Pattern of elements: Coherent. on a large scale (industrial horizon) and detailed scale (industrial farm buildings). Isolated patches of woodland provide clusters of semi-natural habitat, but there is very little Detracting features: Some. opportunity for ecological interest within the open arable fields. The occasional large brick Visual Unity: Coherent. farmhouse and the nature of the alluvial marshland augments the cultural and functional integrity of the area, but overall it is considered to be weak. Cultural integrity: Poor. Ecological integrity: Weak. Functional Integrity: Very Weak.

Sensitivity Sensitivity Moderate.

The historic framework to this landscape is mainly indistinct. The highways retain some Distinctiveness: Indistinct. characteristic features. Brick farmsteads, and isolated development associated with the railways contribute to local distinctiveness in a minor capacity. The sense of place is Continuity: Historic. considered to be weak. Sense of Place: Weak. The contrast of the low hills against the surrounding marshland is an apparent feature in the open view. Views are long and visibility is high. Landform: Apparent Extent of tree cover: Open Visibility: High.

LANDSCAPE ACTIONS SUMMARY OF ACTIONS Restore pockets of small scale farmland in the area and, where it is appropriate, around RESTORE AND CREATE. existing settlement. Create new ecological/recreational resources such New landscape elements may need to be created around new settlements, using as regenerative woodland in farmland characteristic elements adapted to developing uses of the land - to include large-scale Restore small pockets of heritage landscape agriculture, transport and residential uses. around existing settlement Create new ecological bases within the farmland which may also act as recreational Restore the physical coherence of the coastal resources for residential areas. marshland Create woodland links within the farmland in order to develop wider networks with the existing hilltop woodland areas. Restore the integrity of the coastal fringe by linking the remaining undeveloped flatlands together, finding design opportunities within the peripheral built areas to reflect the ecological and visual qualities of the surrounding marshland.

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Prepared for Kent County Council by Jacobs Babtie MEDWAY MARSHES

Location map:

TheCHARACTER Medway Marshes AREA DESCRIPTION are typically low lying and flat, with huge open skies and extensive views. To the north of the river, the marshes are dominated by the massive industrial complexes of Grain and Kingsnorth which sit in grand isolation amidst open marshland. This contrasts markedly with the more confined and 'hectic' industrial marshland landscapes of parts of the Thames Marshes and the more tranquil, pastoral landscape of the Swale Marshes. The southern Medway Marshes are much smaller and fragmented and have a much less coherent character.

Landform and geology have a profound influence on the character of the marshes which, having been formed from marine alluvial deposits, have a distinctively flat relief. A small outcrop of valley brickearth and gravel forms the higher ground of the Isle of Grain but the landform is obscured and dwarfed by the refinery complex and does not register prominently in the landscape.

The majority of marshland is reclaimed and protected from tidal inundation by coastal walls, although fragments of saltmarsh persist to the seaward side and as islands within the estuary itself. The traditional landcover is coastal grazing marsh, and large areas of typically flat, low-lying pasture with characteristic patterning of creeks and dykes still remain to the west of the Isle of Grain, with smaller fragments at Barksore and Horsham Marshes to the south.

The trend towards arable cultivation is less marked than in the Swale but, instead, the Medway Marshes have come under significant pressure from industrial and urban development. Large areas of the north Medway Marshes are now occupied by extensive industrial complexes, with their associated jetties, roads and rail links, while to the south of the river smaller-scale urban and industrial development has occurred in a piecemeal fashion along the immediate coastline where marshes now barely exist.

The saltmarshes, mudflats and grazing marshes of the Medway form an integral part of the North Kent estuarine and marshland habitat complex which is of international importance for nature conservation. The grazing marshes which separate Allhallows and the Isle of Grain also form part of the North Kent Marshes Environmentally Sensitive Area.

The landscape of the Medway Marshes has long been associated with industrial use. The Romans established extensive salt and pottery workings around Upchurch and the shore was later used for the winning of estuarine clay. Like much of the north Kent coast the Medway marshes were of strategic military importance as illustrated by the blockhouses of Darnet Fort and Grain Tower.

In the 19h century George Chambers, John de Jardin Snr., Francis Moltino, W. D. Doust and William Wyllie painted this coastal landscape. In the 20th century the watercolourist and art historian Martin Hardie worked in this area. More recently Vic Ellis, Rowland Fisher and Hugh Lynch are associated with the Medway Estuary.

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Prepared for Kent County Council by Jacobs Babtie MEDWAY MARSHES

PHOTOGRAPH CONTEXT Regional: Thames Gateway

Condition

CONSERVE & REINFORCE CONSERVE good REINFORCE

CREATE & CONSERVE & CONSERVE & moderate REINFORCE CREATE RESTORE

RESTORE & CREATE RESTORE CREATE poor

low moderate high CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES Low-lying and flat fragments of marshland with extensive views, dominated by industrial complexes to the north of the river. The southern marshes are less coherent. Some coastal Sensitivity grazing marsh and salt marsh, some coastal smaller and walls, creeks and dykes. Historical military features.

LANDSCAPE ANALYSIS SUMMARY OF ANALYSIS Condition Condition Poor.

The group marshlands have coherent elements of grazing marsh and salt marsh, ditches Pattern of elements: Coherent. and creeks. All are coastal marsh with close estuarine influences, some are fragmented by industrial complexes. There are also many visual detractors within the area, including Detracting features: Many. industrial lighting and residential development amongst others. Visual Unity: Interrupted. The potential for semi-natural habitats is reduced in areas of arable cultivation, and the ecological integrity is therefore thought to be moderate. Cultural integrity: Variable. Large scale industrial building and recent residential form has a high negative impact, Ecological integrity: Moderate. however, some creeks remain relatively tranquil and retain their cultural links with the waterside. The condition of the area is considered to be poor. Functional Integrity: Coherent.

Sensitivity Sensitivity Moderate.

Historic features of ditches, counter walls, and the legacy of military installations along the Distinctiveness: Characteristic. estuary are key characteristics which give the landscape a cultural time-depth. New access roads and built development lack local distinctiveness and do not contribute to a sense of Continuity: Recent. continuity in the landscape. Sense of Place: Weak.

The low-lying, flat nature of the fragments of marshland is apparent in the open view, and Landform: Apparent visibility is high. Extent of tree cover: Open Visibility: High.

LANDSCAPE ACTIONS SUMMARY OF ACTIONS Restore the cultural emphasis, occasional use of open, inaccessible land. RESTORE AND CREATE. Restore the dominance of the natural features. Restore cultural and natural elements of the Create semi-natural grassland and marshland. marshland Restore and maintain traditional grazing marsh and associated elements such as Maintain areas open landscape counterwalls, ditches and creeks.

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Prepared for Kent County Council by Jacobs Babtie Kent Historic Landscape Characterisation

Final Report

Volume 1: Main Report

Authors

Andrew Croft Julian Munby Matthew Ridley

Kent County Council English Heritage

Oxford Archaeological Unit May 2001 KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

Background

1.1 Oxford Archaeological Unit (OAU) was commissioned in the winter of 1999 by Kent County Council (KCC) and English Heritage (EH) to undertake an Historic Landscape Characterisation of Kent, including the area presently covered by the unitary Medway authority, but excluding the London Boroughs in the former county.

1.2 This assessment was designed to enhance the current landscape characterisation of Kent and forms part of English Heritage’s programme of assistance to local authorities in the production of Historic Landscape Character Assessments.

1.3 The report is divided into two volumes to promote ease of use. Volume One is the main report and covers methodology, findings and discussion, together with a selected bibliography and an associated bound volume of figures. Volume Two is a supplementary appendix describing the Historic Landscape Types (HLTs) developed for and during the study. These are supported with extracts of mapping demonstrating the topographical characteristics of the HLTs.

1.4 The approach to this project is broadly based on the experience of completing a more intensive programme for Hampshire County Council. This had, in turn, drawn on earlier models created for Cornwall, Avon and the Cotswolds AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

1.5 The above projects were based on the conclusions and findings reached by the English Heritage Historic Landscape Research Project on approaches to Historic Landscape Assessment as carried out by OAU and Cobham Resource Consultants in 1993–4 (Fairclough 1999). This project forms part of the continuing process of historic landscape characterisation currently being supported by English Heritage.

1.6 The primary aim of the Kent Historic Landscape Characterisation project was to produce a digital map of Kent’s Historic Landscape Types with associated explanatory text, that would:

• enhance the formulation of development plans, structural planning programmes, development control and conservation activities. • establish a framework, in conjunction with the complimentary county-wide landscape assessment, for future historic landscape assessment and research activities within Kent. 1.7 The assessment was designed to be compatible with the county’s Geographical Information System (GIS) and hence has an interactive element and will be available for a number of uses, including the county’s Sites and Monuments Record (SMR).

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KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

Principles

1.8 Historic landscape characterisation is about recognising the ways in which the present physical landscape reflects how people have exploited, changed and adapted to the physical environment through time, with respect to different social, economic, technological and cultural factors.

1.9 A core premise against which this study has been developed is the recognition that landscape is dynamic and constantly changing in a manner that reflects the immediate preoccupations, future aspirations and past activities of societies and individuals.

1.10 The current key policy issues are broadly focused on how our present-day society wishes to create and influence the direction and pace of future change, in such a way as to enrich the present and future physical, social, economic and cultural environments, whilst maintaining recognisable and tangible links with our shared past.

1.11 Historic landscape character is, therefore, partly about the identified characteristic patterns of change and the important relics of past change, and also, partly, about how the resultant pattern of physical features in the landscape vary from one locale to another. Such patterns can be seen to reflect a complex combination of local, regional, long- and short-term socio- economic factors, and the varied underlying influences of the physical environment, history, culture and tradition.

Approach

1.12 Kent has already been subject to conventional landscape characterisation programmes, some still on-going, and also to ecological and historic assessment and characterisation programmes, both county-wide and within smaller defined areas such as Romney Marshes and Medway. These have been undertaken over a period of time by a range of organisations for a variety of purposes. Whilst this provides a diverse and rich source of perspectives on the subject of Kent’s historic character and development, there is the danger that the addition of further perspectives could lead to increasing confusion if previous work is not taken into account.

1.13 The approach adopted here is firmly based on recognising historic landscape characterisation as a process of enrichment and refinement of landscape characterisation, rather than as a separate or rival approach. Ideally it should enhance the traditional approaches by placing an emphasis on time-depth and on how different areas reflect varying patterns and rates of change.

1.14 A source of difference between the two approaches is that the method of historic landscape characterisation undertaken here is desk-based, using maps as the primary reference source. This differs significantly from conventional landscape assessment, because it has a solely ‘vertical’ rather than a primarily ‘horizontal’ viewpoint. The former tends to produce results

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KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

which are harder to appreciate and experience on the ground but which are nonetheless valid. The approach allows greater attention to be given to broader temporal and spatial factors. These relationships tend to reflect wider changes and subtler variations in the landscape related to societal and cultural concerns, rather than the localised patterns that can emerge through more conventional approaches based upon actual experience of the physical landscape.

1.15 This seeming incompatibility in fact leads to the emergence of a dynamic and interactive relationship between the two approaches, and hence between this study and past work. Previous completed work provides both part of the foundations on which this study builds, and also a sounding board against which to test and compare results. This means that differences arising from the historic landscape approach can be distinguished from minor discrepancies caused by differing approaches.

1.16 As well as discussing and outlining particular aspects and trends of the historic character of the landscape and its development within Kent, the study also outlines areas where future research and investigation may be considered desirable to enhance current knowledge.

1.17 A significant part of the project has been the definition of a series of 34 Historic Landscape Character Areas (HLCA) (see Chapter 3 for details) defined by analysing distinctive patterns and groupings of Historic Landscape Types (HLT). These have been created without reference to any other form of landscape character analysis or assessment, as requested by KCC. The HLCAs represent a new definition of the Kent landscape based on an understanding of the development of the historic character of that landscape.

1.18 Any confusion with names and locations is regrettable but the prefix HLCA is associated with areas defined by historically derived landscape types and by no other considerations. All references to character areas defined by this project are prefixed by the HLCA number and title.

KCC & English Heritage OAU Project Report Vol. 1 May 2001 1-3 Chapter 3 Description of The Historic Landscape Character Areas of Kent

Introduction 1 Overall historic landscape attributes of Kent 1 HLCA 1 - Western Weald 2 HLCA 2 - Western Greensand 2 HLCA 3 - Western Gault Band 2 HLCA 4 - Western North Downs 3 HLCA 5 - North-Western Foothills 3 HLCA 6 - Dartford and Gravesham Conurbation 3 HLCA 7 - Central Low Weald 4 HLCA 8 - Wealden Horticultural Pocket 4 HLCA 9 - Low Weald Pocket 4 HLCA 10 - Medway Basin 5 HLCA 11 - Greensand Horticultural Belt 5 HLCA 12 - Rochester / Chatham Hinterland 5 HLCA 13 - Hoo Peninsula 6 HLCA 14 - Southern High Weald 6 HLCA 15 - The Marling Weald 6 HLCA 16 - Central North Downs 7 HLCA 17 - Northern Horticultural Belt 7 HLCA 18 - Isle of Thanet 8 KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

Introduction

3.1 This chapter describes the nature and characteristics of the thirty two Historic Landscape Character Areas (HLCAs), as created by the OAU team based on the analysis of the mapped HLTs.

3.2 The prefix HLCA represents an entirely different grouping from other prefixes such as LCA (Landscape Character Area) and HLT (Historic Landscape Type). The HLCAs have been specifically created as part of this project to enable the first stage of analysis to be undertaken. They represent groupings and patterns of identifiable HLTs and are not based on any other form of data. The work was carried out independently of the landscape character mapping being undertaken by Kent County Council and the Countryside Commission Landscape Character Mapping.

3.3 The HLCAs were derived through the considered analysis of the distribution and concentrations of HLTs, as portrayed on Figure 3.1. It was, for considerable areas of the county, a relatively straightforward process. In other areas this process proved problematic due to the complex nature of the historic landscape data gathered.

3.4 In light of this, a grading of the reliability of the HLCA definition has been made. This grading reflects the cohesiveness of the HLCA’s definition and in no way reflects the value, significance or importance of the actual physical landscape character of the area.

3.5 This grading of reliability can be found at the start of each listing and is graded on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 representing a homogeneous and well-defined area with an obvious character, whilst 1 would indicate a very poorly defined area with little internal homogeneity and definable character.

3.6 The particular proportions of differing Historic Landscape Types for each HLCA are displayed in Figures 3.3–3.19. These are all based on the same breakdown of types as presented in the second chart of Figure 3.2. This enables a rapid cross-referencing of the varying types and also a broad comparison with the overall figures for the county.

Overall historic landscape attributes of Kent

3.7 The basic breakdown of the Historic Landscape types for Kent (see Figure 3.2) gives a very broad and generalised picture of the county, but it does not in any way reflect the true complexity of the county’s historic landscape character. Even the more developed breakdown presented in the second chart (see Figure 3.2) only gives the broadest of indications in regard to the relationships and proportions of identified types.

3.8 Overall Kent comprises:

• 52.2% fields

KCC & English Heritage OAU Project Report Vol. 1 May 2001 3-1

KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

3.49 The ‘prairie’ fields indicate that the area has been heavily worked in the last two hundred years, leading to the gradual increase in field size and the stripping out of defunct boundaries. The coppice woodland has tended to survive in areas of steep topography or poor soils. Other issues influencing survival are the presence of estates and their more traditional land management practices.

HLCA 13 - Hoo Peninsula

3.50 Reliability Grading 4

3.51 An obvious and well-defined area of distinctive historic landscape. The area is bounded by on three sides by natural HLTs, namely coastal types.

3.52 The peninsula is characterised by irregular fields bounded by tracks, roads and paths (HLT 1.14), with a scattering of other types including orchards (HLT 3.1), urban settlement (HLT 9.6), coppice woodland (HLTs 4.8–4.9) and recreational areas (HLTs 10.1–10.3, 11.1–11.3). The area has an extremely well-defined set of boundaries, for the most part surrounded by coastal types and reclaimed marshland. There is a strong character boundary between the peninsula and the neighbouring land, HLCA 12 (Rochester / Chatham Hinterland).

3.53 The mapping of significant portions of this HLCA as HLT 1.14 (Irregular fields bounded by roads, tracks and paths) could, in this instance, be debated for reasons outlined in Chapter 6 of this report.

HLCA 14 - Southern High Weald

3.54 Reliability Grading 4

3.55 A relatively well-defined area composed of a combination of types but dominated by fields with ponds (HLT 1.16 and 1.17). Its boundary with HLCA 15 (The Marling Weald) could be altered and it may be considered necessary to create a different HLCA for the island of HLCA 14 that lies within the boundaries of, but is distinctive from, HLCA 20 (Romney Marsh).

3.56 The primary difference between HLCA 15 (The Marling Weald) and this area is topographically generated, with HLCA 15 being less undulating and with less steep scarp slopes. This leads to an increase in woodland within HLCA 14 giving rise to a subtly different character.

HLCA 15 - The Marling Weald

3.57 Reliability Grading 5

KCC & English Heritage OAU Project Report Vol. 1 May 2001 3-6

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Chapter 4 Commentary on the Historic Landscape Types of Kent

Introduction 1 Assarts (Figure 4.1) 1 Irregular fields bounded by roads, tracks and paths (Figure 4.2) 1 Wavy bounded fields with ponds (Figure 4.3) 2 Regular fields, 19th and 20th centuries (Figure 4.4) 2 Wavy bounded fields and irregular straight bounded fields (Figure 4.5) 2 Woodland (Figure 4.6) 3 Downland (Figure 4.7) 3 Commons and rough Ground (Figure 4.7) 4 Horticulture (Figure 4.8) 4 Coastal and estuary (Figure 4.9) 4 Reclaimed marsh (Figure 4.10) 5 Parkland and recreation (Figure 4.11) 5 Settlement (Figure 4.11) 5 Industry (Figure 4.12) 6 Military and Defence (Figure 4.12) 6 KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

Introduction

4.1 This chapter provides a commentary and brief description of the distribution and relationships of Historic Landscape Types as identified during the study. This is primarily done with regard to other types and general topographic patterns (see Figures 4.1 to 4.12) but reference is also made to Historic Landscape Character Areas (Figures 3.1 to 3.19).

4.2 The primary purpose of this chapter is to identify patterns and concentrations of HLTs that may indicate particular adaptations to and patterns of exploitation of the physical environment. It is also likely that significant elements of the patterning would have been created by social and economic factors.

4.3 This element of the report does not discuss each HLT in detail but rather discusses various arbitrary groupings as outlined in Figures 4.1 to 4.12

Assarts (Figure 4.1)

4.4 The distribution of assarts, the fields that reflect the colonisation of former woodland, can be seen on Figure 4.1. These cover 1.57% of the county’s area. They are confined to HLCA 1 (Western Weald), HLCA 2 (Western Greensand), HLCA 7 (Central Low Weald) and HLCA 9 (Low Wealden Pocket) for the most part, with small scatters in other areas of the county. The presence of assarts indicated that these areas were formerly wooded to a greater degree than present. There is also a close correlation between surviving woodland and the assarts.

4.5 The assarts are found on a range of geological areas including the Wadhurst Clays, Tunbridge Wells Sands, the Weald Clay and the Lower Greensand.

Irregular fields bounded by roads, tracks and paths (Figure 4.2)

4.6 This distinctive patterning occurs in a series of relatively well-defined groups across the northern part of the county (see Figure 4.2) and covers 5.96% of the county. It has been used to define HLCA 5 (North-Western Foothills), HLCA 13 (Hoo Peninsula) and HLCA 18 (Isle of Thanet), and it also defines, in part, the southern boundary of HLCA 4 (Western North Downs). This type does not occur on the Weald areas and is not particularly confined to any particular geological area.

4.7 The historic rationale behind this particular type is not uniform across the county. It is likely that the areas in the Isle of Thanet region and to the east of Maidstone are probably the oldest elements and represent long-term informal enclosure of potential transhumance landscapes. The area in HLCA 5 (North-Western Foothills) in the north-west of the county is probably more modern in origin and represents a relatively recent opening up of the landscape for the purposes of intensive market gardening. The classification of the Hoo Peninsula (HLCA 13) is debatable.

KCC & English Heritage OAU Project Report Vol. 1 May 2001 4-1 Chapter 5

Commentary on Settlement Pattern and Landscape Character

Introduction 1 How specific Historic Landscape Types relate to parishes 1 How parishes relate to the general distribution pattern of Historic Landscape Types 2 How parishes relate to the Historic Landscape Character Areas 3 Parish boundaries and settlement patterning 3 Conclusions 4 KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

Introduction

5.1 The following is a short examination of some of the observable relationships between established settlement patterns and historic landscape character types identified during the study. This is based primarily on the analysis of the relationships between the data gathered during the characterisation process and the modern parish boundaries.

5.2 Parishes and settlements provide a useful avenue of investigation in relation to historic landscape assessment, primarily because:

• they are ancient in origin • they are directly related to the cultural-economic communities which have been responsible over time for the shaping of historic landscape character • they represent the easiest definable community groups in terms of understanding the interactions of people between the physical, cultural and economic environments represented by natural landforms and culturally developed historic landscape types. 5.3 Unfortunately, this particular study is slightly limited by only having access to modern parish boundaries and no postcode settlement data. The latter hampers the analysis as it was impossible to plot every single dwelling in the county as part the project, and thus the finer detail of settlement distribution has been lost in the historic landscape characterisation.

5.4 Nonetheless, since changes in rural parish boundaries have not obscured their ancient form it has been possible to discuss a series of issues to greater and lesser degrees, and this discussion constitutes the remainder of the chapter.

How specific Historic Landscape Types relate to parishes

5.5 Figure 5.1 demonstrates the complexity of the relationships between parishes and the mapped HLTs. This complexity, with over 9000 separate HLT areas and 87 different types, makes the development of absolute and coherent comment quite difficult at the small scale.

5.6 The relationships between particular HLTs and the parishes of Kent are not necessarily as clear cut as previous studies. It was possible in Hampshire to demonstrate that woodland was primarily located on the edges of parishes; in Kent any such patterns tend to vary on a local basis and are difficult to trace across the county as a whole. A few relationships were observed.

5.7 One of the more obvious interactions between the parish and a particular HLT is the way in which parkland (HLT 10.1 and 10.2) tends to be found alongside or astride parish boundaries. This is noticeable throughout the county but was particularly obvious in the Stour Valley and at the western end of the county.

5.8 A brief examination of the HLT mapping in HLCA 19 (Wantsum Channel) reveals a boundary between two reclaimed marshland HLT types (HLT 5.3 - Small Regular

KCC & English Heritage OAU Project Report Vol. 1 May 2001 5-1 KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

Enclosures and HLT 5.4 - Regular Enclosures) which corresponds with a parish boundary. This particular pattern does not seem to occur in other parts of the county seemingly indicating that it was a localised event. The relationship is therefore probably due to differing local traditions of reclamation and marshland management.

5.9 Overall the broad nature of the study with its focus on developing general county-wide data does limit this particular avenue of enquiry, but with in-depth analysis of local situations it may be possible to address these relationships in a more detailed manner. The scale of the data collected will hopefully allow for this approach to be undertaken, although it does lie outside of the scope of this report.

How parishes relate to the general distribution pattern of Historic Landscape Types

5.10 This broader level of analysis is more suited to the dataset gathered during the study. A cursory examination of Figure 5.1 quite clearly demonstrates a diverse range of possible avenues of enquiry.

5.11 One area of obvious interest lies in the far west of the county in the region of HLCA 1 (Western Weald), HLCA 2 (Western Greensand) and HLCA 3 (Western Gault Band). Here strongly linear parishes can be seen running across numerous HLT types and effectively incorporating them within their bounds. This would have allowed the communities occupying these parishes to access a range of resource groupings including woodland, pasture, valley floor etc.

5.12 This pattern is also clearly visible along the northern fringe of Romney Marsh, where the parish boundaries quite clearly stretch out on to the marshland, giving the occupants access to that valuable resource.

5.13 Small patches of a similar pattern can also be detected in the central region of Kent, although modern parish boundary reorganisation does seem to have rather denuded it. This linearity in the central regions is also probably due to another cultural influence, namely transhumance. It is well established that the communities based in the central and northern regions of Kent utilised the Weald for pasture and summer grazing throughout history and the permanent settlements of the Weald are founded upon these temporary settlements.

5.14 Overall Kent’s parishes do not tend to frame groupings of HLTs but rather they seem to encompass a range of types, even in areas with only a limited range of HLTs. This includes the less linear parishes of the Weald and Eastern Downs, where around the central settlement a series of dispersed settlements can be observed giving access to as diverse range of resources as possible. This pattern is weakest in the northern areas of Kent especially in the urban hinterlands and horticultural belts where rationalisation of agricultural activity in the 19th and 20th centuries has reduced the complexity of the historical landscape.

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KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

How parishes relate to the Historic Landscape Character Areas

5.15 Figure 5.2 shows the boundaries of parishes and HLCAs. There seem to be two basic patterns worthy of note.

5.16 Firstly, as already identified, parishes can be seen cutting across the bounds of HLCAs to maximise their access to a broad resource base. Examples of this can be seen in the area of HLCA 1 (Western Weald), HLCA 2 (Western Greensand) and HLCA 3 (Western Gault Band), and also in the region of HLCA 20 (Romney Marsh) and HLCA 30 (Weald-Romney Border Area). Isolated examples of this can been observed in other areas, especially at the fringes of historically homogeneous areas such as the HLCA 18 (Isle of Thanet) and HLCA 19 (Wantsum Channel).

5.17 In other areas the boundaries of the parish and the HLCA run along similar lines. Examples of this include extremely distinctive areas such as HLCA 15 (The Marling Weald) with its marling fields, elements of HLCA 23 (The Forest of Blean) and also HLCA 24 (The North Chalk Downs) where there seems to be a relatively coherent meeting of boundaries.

5.18 This divergence between HLTs (which have a certain historical rationale) and parish boundaries (which reflect a millennium of human land-use) emphasises the significant fact that the patterns of human use of the landscape (in Kent expressed in the basic north-south grain of Parish Boundaries) is fundamentally different from the natural form as modified by human activity (in Kent expressed in the east-west grain of HLTs).

Parish boundaries and settlement patterning

5.19 Figure 5.3 demonstrates the relationships between identified HLT settlement types and modern parish boundaries. Only significant clusters of settlements were mapped during the project, as it was impractical to map individual houses and buildings.

5.20 A few observations can be made. The parishes on the Weald areas all have a central, or very near to central, settlement dating to pre-1801 which tends to hold the name of the parish. There tends to be little other scattered pre-1801 settlement in these areas. To a great extent this apparent pattern is a result of the mapping methodology, since detailed mapping, of, for example, early farmhouses, would certainly show the classic dispersed nature of settlement in the Weald. Unfortunately these smaller dispersed settlements were too small to be mapped as ‘settlements’ during this project.

5.21 Post-1801 these areas see the development of extensive scattered settlement, especially in HLCA 7 (Central Low Weald). In this case the pre-1801 pattern is probably a historical remnant of the origins of these parishes, with the central settlement marking the place where the primary summer settlement was originally established by the downland parishes (e.g. from HLCA 16, Central North Downs) that utilised the Weald areas.

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5.22 This Wealden pattern is in sharp contrast to the scattered pattern that can be found in the east of the county in areas such as HLCA 24 (North Chalk Downs), HLCA 25 (Eastern Clay-with- Flints), HLCA 29 (Clay-with-Flints North Downs) and the isolated section of HLCA 17 (Northern Horticultural Belt) east of Canterbury. Here early, scattered settlement can be clearly seen with only a few parishes containing just one pre-1801 central settlement. The post-1801 pattern is also different to the Weald areas with considerably less scattered settlement and more urbanisation.

5.23 The process of 19th and 20th-century urbanisation is particularly marked in the northern areas of Kent and also on the east-west communication route running from London to Dover and Folkestone and in the railway related growth arising from Kent’s individualistic railway development.

5.24 A brief examination of Figure 4.11 demonstrates another interesting characteristic of the settlement pattern in Kent. In a number of instances the boundary of the HLCA boundaries are marked by, or are very close to, a linear arrangement of pre-1801 and post-1801 settlement. This can be clearly seen along the boundaries of HLCA 1 and 2 (Western Weald and Western Greensand), HLCA 2 and 3 (Western Greensand and Western Gault Band) and HLCA 20 and 30 (Romney Marsh and Weald-Romney Border Area). These areas are also marked by a grouping of linear parishes (see Figure 5.3) that run tangential to the HLCAs and HLTs in the area indicating the communities’ desire to maintain access to a wide variety of resources. The settlements therefore potentially seem to be situated on or very near to the boundaries of these resource groupings.

Conclusions

5.25 The project has revealed a complex and varied historic landscape. The data has presented future scholars with a considerable county-wide overview of the development and nature of that landscape. At present the cursory analysis has revealed a few interesting and potentially rewarding lines of enquiry. However, these will need to be followed up and expanded upon if detailed results are to be developed. This will include detailed local analysis beyond the scope of this report.

5.26 This future work should also include the analysis of the data in respect to historically situated parish boundaries, and, in particular, an analysis of outlying portions of parishes in respect to HLTs could be very informative.

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Kent Historic Landscape Characterisation

Final Report

Volume 2: Historic Landscape Type Descriptions

Authors

Andrew Croft Julian Munby Matthew Ridley

Kent County Council English Heritage

Oxford Archaeological Unit May 2001 KENT HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION

1.14 Irregular Fields Bounded by Roads, Tracks and Paths

Description and Historical Rationale This type generally occurs on chalk uplands - especially the dip slopes and has resulted from post- medieval informal enclosures. The roads and tracks are possibly old drove roads to and from the downlands. Other examples include extensive areas of 20th-century market gardening. This does weaken the historic rationale for this HLT. (see Chapter 6, Volume 1)

Identifying Characteristics Typically large enclosures bounded by wavy roads, tracks and other public rights of way.

Predominant Locations and Variations Generally occur in the north of the county, with strong outcrops on the Hoo Peninsula and in the Dartford Hinterlands.

Typical Associations with other Types Mainly occurs with medium to large regular type fields (HLTs 1.10, 1.11).

Similar Types and Distinguishing Criteria HLT 1.14 is similar to HLT 1.6 but can be distinguished by roads, tracks and paths forming the majority of the boundaries.

Key Indicative Sources OS 1:25,000 OS 1:10,000

KCC & English Heritage OAU Project Report Vol. 2 March 2001

Kent County Council

Historic Landscape Characterisation Figures

April 2001

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Kent Historic Landscape Characterisation

Final Report

Volume 3: Illustrations

Authors

Andrew Croft Julian Munby Matthew Ridley

Kent County Council English Heritage

Oxford Archaeological Unit May 2001

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[Page left intentionally blank] Medway Landscape Character Assessment March 2011 Executive Summary

The primary purpose of this study is to support North Kent Fruit Belt; Capstone and Horsted Val- and inform landscape planning policies within the leys; North Downs and Medway Valley. The study Medway Core Strategy and to provide a landscape adopts a consistent methodology and follows a planning guidance document for the countryside rigorous analytical process in defining a series of and urban-rural fringe areas of Medway. local landscape character areas. Definition of the boundaries of each of these character areas is The introduction is split into two sections. The based on an analysis of earlier studies; on land- first section considers why landscape is important; scape survey work of Medway’s countryside and purpose and scope; planning context; previous urban-rural fringe areas undertaken in 2009 and Landscape Character Assessments; methodology, on an overall evaluation of all assembled data. The content and structure of the report. The second study divides Medway’s countryside into forty-two section looks more carefully at the particular char- distinct local landscape character areas. A series of acter and local distinctiveness of Medway’s land- summary sheets describe what makes each of these scape. It considers wider influences, including the character areas distinctive and what is valuable and impact of new development, the historic environ- important about them. ment, biodiversity, climate change, green infrastructure and the benefits of adopting an ecosystems Each summary sheet provides a character area map, approach. The introduction concludes by consider- a description, a list of characteristics, an analysis ing variations in landscape character; the value and of condition and sensitivity, a list of issues, recom- importance of reinforcing local distinctiveness; the mended actions and a set of guidelines. A large map principal themes that emerge from the main body showing the whole borough at a recognisable scale of the report; achieving a wider vision; stakeholder (1:25,000) and defining all the character areas is involvement and current projects, plans and deliv- provided as a supplement. ery mechanisms that will enable practical change to be achieved on the ground. This approach will The appendix section of the report summarises enable change at a local level to be set within the current relevant planning policy; lists the principal context of a wider and sustainable vision of land- landscape types and their descriptions and provides scape and environmental enhancement. a methodology and analysis summary. Appendix illustrations include a sample survey sheet and GIS The main body of the study divides Medway’s mapping analysis samples. The report concludes countryside into six principal areas – Eastern with a detailed bibliography. Thames Marshes; Medway Marshes; Hoo Peninsula;

Medway Landscape Character Assessment iii Principal Landscape Areas

iv Medway Landscape Character Assessment Landscape Character Areas

Eastern Thames Marshes North Kent Fruit Belt 1. Cliffe Pits and Pools 21. Lower Rainham Farmland 2. Cliffe to St Mary’s Marshes 22. Moor Street Farmland 23. Meresborough Farmland Medway Marshes 3. Allhallows to Stoke Marshes Capstone and Horsted Valleys 4. Hoo Flats 24. Darland Banks 5. Riverside Marshes 25. East Hill 6. Motney Hill 26. Capstone Farm 27. Sharstead Farm Hoo Peninsula 28. Elm Court 7. Cliffe Farmland 29. Hempstead Fringe 8. Cooling Farmland 30. Horsted Valley 9. Northward Hill 10. St Mary’s Farmland North Downs/Medway Valley 11. Hoo Peninsula Farmland 31. Matts Hill Farmland 12. Lower Stoke Farmland 32. Nashenden Scarp 13. Cliffe Woods Farmland 33. Nashenden Valley 14. Chattenden Ridge 34. Wouldham Scarp East 15. Deangate Ridge 35. Wouldham Marshes 16. Hoo Farmland 36. Cuxton Scarp Foot 17. Cockham Farm Ridge 37. Halling Marshes 18. Hogmarsh Valley 38. Holborough Marshes 19. Bald Top Hill 39. Halling Quarries 20. Tower Hill 40. Halling Scarp West 41. Bush Valley and Dean Farm 42. Ranscombe Farm

Medway Landscape Character Assessment v Medway Landscape Character Assessment vi Introduction

What is landscape and why it matters including food, water, disease management, climate Landscape is the relationship between people and place; it regulation, spiritual fulfilment and aesthetic enjoyment). forms the setting for our day-to-day lives. It results from They have influenced the character of our towns and the way that different components of our environment – cities and they provide places of widely ranging character, natural (geology, soils, climate, flora and fauna) and where people can relax, recreate and learn. Landscapes cultural (historic and current impact of land use, should be managed, planned and, where appropriate, settlement, enclosure and other human interventions) protected to deliver a full range of ecosystem goods interact and are perceived by us. Landscape character is and services. The government’s lead body on landscape the pattern that arises from particular combinations of related issues, Natural England (NE), advocates the use these different components. of a landscape character approach, which can be used to underpin local, regional and national policies and actions, People’s perceptions turn land into the concept of ensuring that landscapes remain distinctive and highly landscape. Understanding landscape is not just a matter of valued. A key driver behind Natural England’s ‘All visual perception but also how we hear, smell and feel our landscapes matter’ approach is the Government ratified surroundings and the feelings, memories and associations European Landscape Convention (ELC), which came into that they evoke. Our activities influence and shape the force on 1 March 2007 (see Appendix A for more details). Horsted Valley appearance and function of the landscape that surrounds us. • There is need for a well researched, regularly updated Purpose and scope and robust landscape guidance document that Landscape is valued for lots of different reasons – not all The need for a new updated Landscape Character Development Management Planning Officers can use related to traditional concepts of aesthetics and beauty. Assessment (LCA) for Medway has been driven by a when considering the appropriateness and sensitivity It can provide and contribute to: habitats for wildlife; a number of key factors: of new development proposals within the cultural record of how people have lived on the land and • Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) is recog- countryside and the urban-rural fringe. There is also harnessed its resources; social and community value; a nised as a powerful tool for evaluating the role played a need for this guidance to be publicly available for sense of identity, well being, enjoyment and inspiration; it by landscape in defining local distinctiveness and developers, their agents and the local community. has economic value – it forms the context for economic sense of place and in informing decision-making on • Current National Planning Guidance (PPS7) activity and can be a central factor in attracting the planning, design and management of landscapes. recommends a change from the use of rigid Local business and tourism. Landscape Character Assessment • The Local Development Framework (LDF) planning Landscape Designations (LLDs) to a criteria based has emerged as an appropriate way to look at landscape system requires the preparation of Core Strategy policy approach, using techniques such as Landscape as it provides a structured approach to identifying policies that are supported by a strong evidence Character Assessment. This study takes a criteria- character, distinctiveness and value. base. It is intended that this document will provide a based policy approach to all of Medway’s landscapes firm and robust evidence base that supports land- and assesses the value and significance of each land- Landscape is not just about special or designated areas. scape and countryside policies within the Medway scape character area, including the key All landscapes matter. Our landscapes represent a coming Core Strategy and the Development Plan Document characteristics, functions and local distinctiveness together of the natural world, human society and people’s (DPD) that is prepared subsequently in order to of existing rigidly designated areas (known within needs. They provide a range of ecosystem services (the provide more detailed policies. the current Local Plan as Areas of Local Landscape services that the Earth’s ecosystems provide, Importance – ALLIs)1. This approach ensures that all

Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Introduction 1 areas of Medway’s countryside outside the urban by regular updating it continues to provide a valuable One of the principal purposes of preparing this study areas and principal rural settlements have been tool within the planning process when considering issues has been to provide a robust evidence base in support evaluated in an holistic way that assesses their special related to landscape, land use and land management2. of landscape policies within the Core Strategy. The data, and locally distinctive qualities. guidelines and outcomes of this study will be directly • Regional Planning Guidance (The South East Plan) Planning context linked to the landscape and countryside policies within removed the county-wide landscape protection Current national planning policy guidance (PPS7) proposes Medway’s Core Strategy. It has been proposed against designations of Special Landscape Area (SLA). This that rigid LLDs should be replaced by criteria-based policy regional guidelines and has been subject to consulta- designation was applied under the Kent and Medway guidance (using techniques like LCA). They should only be tion with a range of key stakeholders, including Natural Structure Plan to a large proportion of Medway’s retained when it can be clearly shown that criteria-based England, English Heritage and the Environment Agency. North Kent Marshes as well some tracts of adjacent policies cannot provide the necessary protection. As such it will be a significant ‘material consideration’ in farmland situated on the Hoo Peninsula. This designa- making planning decisions. A separate Consultation tion recognised the special quality of this landscape Within the process of undertaking this LCA, careful Report details the stakeholders engagement and includes in terms of its natural beauty. This study seeks to attention has been paid to all those areas previously a comprehensive schedule of representations received recognise those special qualities within relevant char- protected under a rigid system of landscape designation and the response to these. acter areas and ensure that the high landscape value (LLDs are known as ALLIs within Medway’s current Local and distinctive quality of these areas continue to be Plan). It is considered that the assessment work within Within a wider context, the UK government is now a recognised. The SLA designation is saved within the this study (characteristics, recommended landscape ac- signatory to the European Landscape Convention (ELC); current Local Plan. tions, issues and guidelines for each character area), will The ELC aims to promote the protection, management ensure an appropriate level of protection continues to and planning of landscapes. Natural England (NE) as the • Landscape changes and evolves over time and it is be provided for these areas without a continued need lead body for the implementation of the ELC within the important to record the process of change and assess for rigid designation. This approach will also ensure other UK has recently produced a series of consultation papers the current condition and levels of sensitivity. The last previously undesignated areas are also adequately and ap- including one entitled ‘All Landscapes Matter’. This paper local landscape assessment (Medway Landscape and propriately protected. This strategy seeks to ensure that supports the general principles underpinning the ELC. Urban Design Framework) was undertaken in 2001. a positive land management approach is taken in planning It considered landscape character in urban and rural for the future of Medway’s countryside. Appendix A provides more detail on national and regional areas but was not fully completed. There is now a planning policy guidance as it relate to the countryside, clear need for a new study. landscape, green infrastructure, climate change and the natural and historic environment This study focuses entirely on rural and urban-rural fringe landscapes and does not include urban areas, industrial Landscape Character Assessment – previous developments or larger rural settlements. Urban parks studies and open spaces are only considered when they form • National Character of England map (1998) – 159 distinct clearly identifiable green links from the country- areas – 3 areas within Medway – Greater Thames side into urban areas and retain a strong sense of rural estuary (81), North Kent Plain (113), North Downs identity. Good examples of this category of open space (119) would include the Capstone and Horsted Valleys. • County-wide The Landscape Assessment of Kent It is proposed that this study is reviewed and updated (2004) (KCA) – 16 areas within Medway on a five year cycle. This will ensure that it continues to reflect current guidance, policies and research and that Meresborough Farmland

2 Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Introduction • Thames Gateway The Kent Thames Gateway Land- approach and could usefully provide the basis for a new Methodology and Analysis scape (KTGLA) – Landscape Assessment and Indica- study of the Medway countryside and urban-rural fringe Desk top study tive Landscape Strategy (July 1995) areas. This 1995 study predates current national guidance As a first stage, the Kent Thames Gateway Landscape As- • Local Medway Landscape and Urban Design Frame- produced in 2002 (The Landscape Character Approach: sessment (KTGLA) character areas and the work (LAUD) – Landscape and Townscape Character Countryside Agency); however the approach taken is Medway Landscape and Urban Design Framework Assessment (May 2001) broadly within the guidelines. The process of updating (LAUD) character areas were mapped separately as and reviewing the Medway LCA has ensured that cur- overlays on top of the Landscape Assessment of Kent rently accepted methodologies and guidance have been (KCA) character areas. This identified key relationships A review by Council Officers of two of these studies observed. Natural England are currently preparing an and areas of conflict within each study. It also helped to (KTGLA and LAUD) concluded that The Kent Thames updated LCA guidance document for England. confirm an agreed consensus that the KTGLA was the Gateway Landscape study adopted a more informative more useful and appropriate study to form the basis of a new landscape character study. Appendix E illustrates this mapping exercise.

As a second stage the KTGLA character areas were overlaid over a series of maps that included geology, soils, topography and protective designations. This helped in understanding previous decisions related to character area boundaries and provided an opportunity to consider and review these boundaries. Decisions on character area boundaries within Medway to the south of the Thames Gateway area were strongly influenced by the conclusions of the KCA study; proposed boundaries for these areas were also mapped over the geology, soils and other mapping as listed above. In order to address cross boundary issues the Swale, Gravesham and Maidstone Borough Council LCAs were reviewed and face to face meetings took place with officers from Maidstone, Gravesham and Tonbridge and Malling. Tonbridge and Malling do not currently have their own LCA but are in the process of planning to produce one.

Fieldwork Site survey fieldwork was undertaken between the months of January and March 2009. Some follow-up work took place in the subsequent period – to visit more inaccessible areas, to ratify results and to check conflicts. All visits were undertaken by Medway’s Landscape Officer assisted by a Chartered Consultant Landscape Architect. St Mary’s Farmland On the few occasions the consultant was unavailable a

Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Introduction 3 technical officer partnered the Landscape Officer. The Landscape types area and a judgement is made based on an assessment of Landscape Officer visited all character areas. Landscape types are divided into two broad categories overall sensitivity across the whole character area. – rural and transitional. These are further sub-divided Site Assessment Methodology into types and sub-types. In the Thames Gateway study Actions Boundaries were reviewed and principal routes and (KTGLA), areas were identified according to landscape A matrix grid is used to balance condition and viewpoints visited within each character area, prior to type. Whilst these categories remain, each character area sensitivity. This provides nine different management completion of a site assessment sheet (see Appendix D); has now been clearly identified by the adoption of a lo- option categories. This approach gives a broad indication this was completed at a carefully selected survey point. cally distinctive name. A summary of the classification of of each character area’s ability to accommodate a change The format and approach adopted for these sheets was landscape types can be found in Appendix B. in management or use without a loss of overall based on best practice with reference to (1) Countryside integrity. Some character areas could vary in condition Agency guidance and (2) Condition and Sensitivity assess- Content and Structure and sensitivity outcomes when considered at a finer grain ment techniques used for the Landscape Assessment of Medway’s countryside is divided up into a number of but may nevertheless retain a degree of coherency in Kent (as well as Landscape Assessments produced by a distinct landscape areas. These areas broadly match terms of their overall characteristics. The character number of neighbouring Kent authorities, including Swale, areas identified within The Landscape Assessment of assessment approach provides the opportunity to Maidstone and Gravesham). See Appendix C for a sum- Kent (2004). They form a logical framework which then undertake more detailed studies on condition, sensitivity mary of the approach taken to assessing Condition and sub-divide into more detailed landscape character areas. and capacity for change for individual application sites. Sensitivity. See Appendix D for an example of a complet- The six principal areas defined within this study are: the This approach would be encouraged, particularly for ed survey sheet Eastern Thames Marshes, Medway Marshes, Hoo sensitive sites; however this work should be undertaken Peninsula, North Kent Fruit Belt, Capstone and Horsted within the context (i.e. the framework and conclusions) Boundaries Valleys, North Downs and Medway Valley. The structure of this assessment. It should be undertaken by a It should be noted that boundaries are often indicative of of the report reflects these categories. competent and skilled landscape professional and it transitional rather than arbitrary zonal change. In differ- should follow currently recognised Landscape Character ent cases they can be defined by man made or natural The following subject headings have been considered for Assessment procedures and methodologies. boundaries – e.g. motorways and roads, industry and each survey sheet. The results are summarised on each settlements, watercourses, woodlands and topography. character area summary sheet. Issues The boundaries may therefore indicate in different cases This section seeks to identify particular issues that are an abrupt or more gradual transition from one zone to Description and Characteristics specific to each character area. A summary of recurring another. General description (including location, geology, soils, and more generic issues is provided within introduc- accessibility, designations) and key distinguishing charac- tory sections. It is intended that the Guidelines sections The site and analysis work gave due consideration to teristics provide pro-active responses to the issues raised for each landscape character areas that extended beyond the dis- character area. trict boundaries of Medway into neighbouring authorities Condition and Sensitivity and this included a review of local Landscape Character Assesses Condition and Sensitivity based on a commonly Guidelines Assessments for these authorities (where these existed). accepted approach – see Appendix C for a fuller explana- This section seeks to address principal issues and put All neighbouring authorities have been consulted. As a tion. Condition can vary widely within a particular char- forward a set of specific, realisable and pro-active man- result of these consultation responses it was decided that acter area. A judgement is made based on an assessment agement actions. These actions should mitigate trends character areas boundaries should terminate at the Med- of overall condition across the whole character area. Ex- that degrade locally distinctive landscape character and way boundary; thereby allowing neighbouring authorities ceptionally wide variation or unusual features/influences to make final judgements on their own local landscape are highlighted within individual area assessments. Levels character area designations. of sensitivity may also vary across a particular character

4 Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Introduction encourage positive action to enhance and raise landscape an erosion of local distinctiveness and rural character. of the Capstone and Horsted Valleys and the North Downs quality and condition. Achieving the objectives outlined In many cases such adverse impacts are related to the beyond. The eastern section of the area described as Cux- in the guidelines may not always be a simple process; introduction of equine related activities3 and hard and ton Brickfields within the Local Plan and designated as an however it is intended that highlighting objectives in this soft landscape boundary treatments4 considered in many ALLI (land to the east of the M2), has been excluded from this study, on the basis that it has a predominantly urban way will focus attention of landowners, planning officers, cases as insensitive to their context. Guidance notes on character. A significant section of this area has now been developers and the local community on a clear aspiration Equine Management and Boundary treatments are likely developed as a theme park, but it remains the intention of to improve the condition of the landscape in a pro-active to be produced first. A wider holistic study will also be the planning authority that the whole of this area retains an and positive way set that is set within an overall frame- produced that considers urban and rural settlement open character that respects its importance as a prominent work and consistency of approach. The guidelines should edges within Medway. This study will seek to ensure that green backdrop, wildlife corridor and green lung extending provide an appropriate landscape framework for new new and existing developments are more sensitively from the countryside into the urban area. development in the countryside and urban-rural fringe integrated into the surrounding countryside. A biodiver- 2. It is recommended that future updated LCA studies in areas of Medway and encourage and support separate sity study linked to this current LCA is recommended Medway include a section that considers change in land- green infrastructure initiatives. A good example of this within the next section. A timetable to complete these scape condition over time – from previous studies, but also would be providing a wider green infrastructure frame- projects will be subject to identification of adequate in the context of time depth / historic landscape character. work to support the development of a sustainable new resources to fund the work. In the meantime useful An updated Landscape Character Assessment Guidance community at Lodge Hill. This aim can only be achieved guidance on the first two topics can be found within the document is currently being prepared by Natural England. This will address current thinking and examples of best through a multi-agency approach, drawing together fund- Kent Downs AONB Landscape Design Handbook and practice in LCA. ing and support from key stakeholders like the Environment Equine Management Guidance (see Bibliography section). 3. There are a number of references within this study on Agency, Natural England and English Heritage and obtain- the adverse impacts of equine related activities on the ing financial and practical support for this approach from Footnotes landscape. These relate to visual and landscape character central government. An existing mechanism is in place to 1. The Great and Lower Lines is a high valued and distinc- impacts. Typical adverse impacts may relate to the lotting achieve this multi-agency approach through the Parklands tive landscape designated as an ALLI within the current of agricultural land (reducing larger fields into smaller units funding regime, which is led within the Medway, Swale Local Plan. This large open space (now named Great Lines not in character with the historic field pattern) or the and Dartford and Gravesham districts by Greening the Heritage Park) is surrounded by development, has been introduction of unsightly and insensitive boundary treat- categorised as an urban open space rather than country- Gateway Kent and Medway (GGKM). ments. These issues need to be judged on a case by case side and is therefore outside the scope of this study. This basis but useful guidance on good practice may be found does not devalue its considerable significance as a metro- These guidelines are intended for use by Planning within the Kent Downs AONB Equine Management Guid- politan open space with high biodiversity and cultural value. ance document (see Bibliography section). Officers when considering planning applications but are It has been the subject of a number of detailed landscape also for use to support and inform discussions with and other assessments in recent years and the area forms 4. Hard and soft landscape boundary treatment guidance would consider ways to achieve sensitive rural landscape individual landowners as part of strategic landscape, part of a current bid for World Heritage Site status (for treatments and remedy the gradual trend towards subur- biodiversity, cultural heritage and access enhancement the Chatham Historic Dockyard and its defences). It is well protected within the current local plan as an open space, banisation in many areas (especially along road corridors initiatives that are being initiated within the Thames – often described as ribbon development). Typical adverse Gateway (as led by GGKM and Natural England. More for its wildlife value and it also sits within a Conservation area. Thames Gateway Parkland funding is currently being impacts are the introduction of suburban features like detail on delivery mechanisms is provided in the following spent on landscape enhancements to this area. Despite conifers, close board fences, ornamental shrub planting etc. section. its urban location, this open space has great value and potential for improvement as part of a green lung linking A series of guidance sheets will be produced to sup- the countryside to the south into Medway and should be port this study. This guidance will seek to reverse trends considered in Green Infrastructure terms for its potential highlighted within the summary sheets that have led to to form a stronger link between the densely populated urban areas of Chatham and Gillingham and the open spaces

Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Introduction 5 6 Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Introduction 11 Hoo Peninsula Farmland

Landscape type: Flat or undulating open farmland (R6) pylons/power lines; industrial areas at Grain and King- and threat of settlement coalescence – between Hoo Sub type: Flat or undulating open arable farmland (R6a) snorth often prominent in views to south and east St Werburgh and High Halstow and between Hoo Forms part of Hoo Peninsula Character area (KCA • Two large remnant orchards along A228 – at Dean- and Kingsnorth Industrial area 2004) gate and Fenn Street • Roads and traffic – heavy vehicle traffic movements • Intrusiveness and adverse visual and landscape char- Description Analysis acter impact of pylons/power lines • Location – open arable farmland to central part of • Potential for enhanced woodland links to higher peninsula – Cooling in north west; Allhallows to Condition Poor ground north east; Hoo St Werburgh to south and Cliffe Pattern of elements – Incoherent Woods to south west. Detracting features – Many Visual Unity – Fragmented Guidelines • Geology – Lenham Beds and Thanet formation to • Strengthen landscape structure and seek to improve west; London clay to east Ecological integrity – Low Cultural integrity – Poor image of area with new hedgerows (particularly along • Soils – predominantly grade 1 agricultural with pock- Functional integrity – Low major roads, screening of settlement edges and de- ets of grade 3 tracting features; seek to achieve sensitive harmonisa- • Accessibility – local paths link settlements but lacks Sensitivity Moderate tion of built development and countryside strong east west axis Distinctiveness – Indistinct • Firmly resist proposals for new overhead power lines • Designations – predominantly white land (open Continuity – Recent or cables and seek to under-ground cabling of exist- countryside); includes rural lane; SLA: ALLI; Ancient Sense of place – Poor ing overhead lines Woodland Landform – Apparent • Flood – predominantly outside flood zone (2003) Tree cover – Open Visibility – Moderate

Characteristics Actions Restore and Create • Undulating predominantly arable farmland with large open fields and little sense of enclosure; extensive Issues views from higher ground towards estuaries • Weak landscape structure – poorly managed edges; • Weak landscape structure, lack of distinctiveness and field boundaries; absence of tree cover; depleted overall coherence hedgerows; many detracting features; poor quality • Field boundaries – mixed fences and hedges – sparse settlement edges and poorly managed hedgerows, isolated trees and • Extensive views out across farmland from higher blocks of woodland (often around farm buildings) ground towards estuaries • Many detracting features – poor quality edges to • Loss of orchards to development or conversion to farms and settlements with discordant conifers, roads arable farmland (notably A228), railway, signs, telephone lines and • Expansion of development at Kingsnorth and Grain

46 Medway Landscape Character Assessment • Seek to identify and recognise strategic viewpoints • Seek to strengthen and enhance access opportunities, • New development proposals should respect and that offer high quality views across farmland towards particularly in the light of major planned new devel- enhance biodiversity and local distinctiveness estuaries opment at Lodge Hill • Protect existing orchards – resist loss of orchards to • Strengthen and increase biodiversity value – wood- • Resist suburbanisation to villages and small settle- arable farmland land, hedgerows and wider field margins ments (particularly along road side edges); encourage • Protect separation, rural character and openness of • Identify potential opportunities for enhanced wood- planting of native locally found species to reflect and countryside between villages at Cliffe Woods, Hoo, land links and corridors along higher ground; such reinforce rural character – note general principles High Halstow, Stoke, Lower Stoke and Allhallows links should be sympathetic to landscape character; within Kent Downs AONB Landscape Design Hand- respect valuable open views, strengthen landscape book guidance on designing and specifying sensitive structure and local distinctiveness and enhance biodi- boundary treatments Hoo Peninsula Farmland Hoo Peninsula versity value

48 Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Hoo Peninsula Hoo Peninsula Farmland Hoo Peninsula

Medway Landscape Character Assessment - Hoo Peninsula 49 APPENDIX C

[Page left intentionally blank] Land at Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Landscape Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

APPENDIX C: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)

Landscape Receptor and Judged Sensitivity of Judged Magnitude of Description/ Notes Overall Overall Overall Reference Landscape Landscape Effect Effect at Effect Upon Effect at 15 Construction Completion Years Post Phase Completion

Susceptibility Landscape Scale or Size of the Where Major Major Major to Change Value Degree of Change applicable, Moderate Moderate Moderate including degree of are the Minor Minor Minor contrast/ Effects Negligible Negligible Negligible integration) at Reversible? None None None Stages of Project

High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None

National Landscape Character

Natural England, National There is a There is a Low / Negligible No The Site lies wholly within NCA 113 North Kent Plain. Negligible Negligible Negligible varied varied value (Construction) Character Area Profile Susceptibility throughout The Site form only a small part of the larger NCA. As such, the proposed development would not result in any to Change this Low / Negligible significant landscape effects at this broad geographic scale. (NCA) (Completion) throughout this extensive The proposals provide an opportunity to contribute to SEO 4: “Protect and enhance the strong character and 113 ‘North Kent Plain’ extensive NCA. Negligible (Year 10) heritage of the urban areas. Plan for the creation of significant new areas of green space and green corridors NCA. to provide a framework for new and existing development in urban areas and along major transport routes.” The proposals will provide for new areas of green infrastructure such as areas of POS and green corridors. Together with the provision of new footpaths and cycle links these will create new connections with the wider Public Right of Way network, serving to strengthen and extend the network of green links between the Site and the surrounding landscape.

*Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road. Land at Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Landscape Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

APPENDIX C: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)

High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None

Landscape Character Assessment (LCA): County

County LCA Medium / Medium Low (Construction) No The Site lies wholly within Thames Gateway Landscape Character Area and Hoo Peninsula Landscape Minor adverse Minor adverse Minor Low Character Type and forms only a small part of the wider character area. adverse/ Low (Completion) Negligible The Landscape Assessment The key characteristics are as follows: of Kent (October, 2004) Negligible-Low • Prominent hills and low-lying alluvial marshes. (Year 10) • Flat/undulating farmland. Decline in orchards and mixed farmland with shelterbelts. LCA / LCT: • Intensive, open farmed arable land. Intrusive influence of industrial development. Thames Gateway / The Site shares some of the rural characteristics of the wider character area and forms part of the wider Hoo Peninsula agricultural field network extending to the east of the existing settlement edge, comprising two field parcels one divided into paddocks for horses and the other used for motorhome and caravan storage. The two parcels are separated by a linear group of trees which traverses the interior of the Site. There are limited long distance views towards the landscape to the south gained from higher ground within the northern portion of the Site and along the northern boundary. However, the Site is also influenced by the existing settlement edge which predominately comprises residential development on Rivenhall Way / Baryntyne Way and Headstock Rise to the west and north-west as well as that along Stoke Road to the south and south-west of the Site. The relationship of the Site to the settlement edge is evidenced by the current landuse. As such the Site can be considered to comprises a landscape with the capacity to accommodate residential development of the scale and nature proposed. Overall, the landscape character type is assessed by the Hoo Peninsula study as being of poor condition and moderate sensitivity. To this effect, the report states: “The historic framework to this landscape is mainly indistinct. The highways retain some characteristic features. Brick farmsteads, and isolated development associated with the railways contribute to local distinctiveness in a minor capacity. The sense of place is considered to be weak. The contrast of the low hills against the surrounding marshland is an apparent feature in the open view. Views are long and visibility is high.” The proposals will serve to contribute to the landscape action, namely restore and create through the retention and enhancement of existing vegetation along Site boundaries and the retention of the large existing tree within the area of proposed POS within the eastern portion of the Site. Further to this, new areas of green infrastructure are proposed, including new tree planting to supplement boundary vegetation as well as provided within the area of proposed POS throughout the Site. Further new tree and hedgerow planting is proposed within the proposed development, replacing the existing linear tree and hedgerow planting which traverses the interior of the Site, serving to reinforce the surrounding field pattern and set development within a robust landscape structure of retained and proposed vegetation at the edge of the settlement.

APPENDIX C: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)

High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None

Landscape Character Assessment (LCA): District

Medway Landscape Low Medium Medium No At the district scale, the Site falls within part of the wider landscape character area 11. Hoo Peninsula Moderate / Minor adverse / Negligible / Character Assessment (Construction) Farmland characterised by “open arable farmland to the central part of peninsula”. Minor adverse Negligible Minor Beneficial (March 2011) Low (Completion) A key feature of the character area, particularly representative of the Site is described as: “Undulating 11: Hoo Peninsula predominantly arable farmland with large open fields and little sense of enclosure; extensive views from Negligible-Low higher ground towards estuaries.” Farmland’ Character Area (Year 10) The area is identified as being of poor condition and of moderate sensitivity with a number of distracting

features including: Weak landscape structure, lack of distinctiveness and overall coherence; Field boundaries – mixed fences and hedges – sparse and poorly managed hedgerows, isolated trees and blocks of woodland (often around farm buildings); and Many detracting features – poor quality edges to farms and settlements with discordant conifers, roads (notably A228), railway, signs, telephone lines and pylons/power lines; industrial areas at Grain and Kingsnorth often prominent in views to south and east. Actions for the area are to restore and create. The Site is representative of the character area, comprising two field parcels within the wider agricultural landscape adjacent to the existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh. The Site comprises urban edge land uses, containing both paddocks for horses as well as motorhome and caravan storage. As such, the Site can be considered representative of some of the detracting features described as characteristic of the character area. The proposals will serve to contribute towards the actions identified in the report for the area, namely restore and create through the provision of new areas of GI, including new structural tree and hedgerow planting within areas of POS and to Site boundaries. This will serve to set new housing within a robust landscape framework of retained and proposed vegetation at the edge of the village and re-establish coherence and landscape structure across this part of the character area.

APPENDIX C: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)

High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None

The Site lies adjacent to ‘12: Lower Stoke Farmland’ Character Area, described as having the following

characteristics: • Wedge of open undulating arable farmland; medium scale; more diverse, varied and enclosed than Hoo Peninsula farmland character area; • Borders Medway Marshes with aspect towards Med-way Estuary and industrial complexes at Grain and Kingsnorth; industry and large pylons have strong and distinctive impact on character and views; • Railway line and Kingsnorth industrial complex forms strong southern edge.

The area is identified as being of moderate condition and of moderate sensitivity. Actions for the area are to conserve and create.

The Site is influenced by the adjacent character area. Kingsnorth power station and industrial buildings are evident in long distance views towards the Estuary in the south as are pylons which serve as prominent features on the skyline and in views towards the south and east. The proposals will serve to contribute towards the actions identified in the report for the area, namely conserve and create through the retention of existing vegetation to Site boundaries and within the Site itself as well as the provision of new areas of GI, including new structural tree and hedgerow planting within areas of POS and to Site boundaries. This will serve to set new housing within a robust landscape framework of retained and proposed vegetation at the edge of the village.

APPENDIX C: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)

High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None

Landscape Character

Site and Immediate Context Medium / Low Medium / Construction: No The Site to the north of Stoke Road comprises two parcels, one divided into paddocks for horses and the Moderate Moderate / Minor adverse Low other used for motorhome and caravan storage. Land to the south of the Site, comprises an area grazed by Adverse Minor Adverse / Minor Med-High horses and contains a number of fruit trees. Five of these will be removed in order to create a new surface Beneficial to Completion: Medium water attenuation facility located at some distance from the Site. specific Year 15: Low The Site lies on gently sloping land to the north of Stoke Road and east of Hoo St Werburgh. Landform within the Site generally slopes gently in a south-easterly direction from a high point of approximately 21.5m AON at the north-west corner to 13.75m AON to south-east adjacent to the Sites southern boundary with Stoke Road. Hedgerow and tree planting defines the northern, western and a section of the southern boundary. The eastern boundary and a section of the southern boundary is devoid of boundary vegetation and is defined by post and rail fencing. The southern boundary is further defined by Stoke Road and a number of residential properties and associated structures.

Vegetation within the Site is limited to a mature tree within the eastern parcel and a linear vegetation belt

which traverses north to south through the interior of the Site, serving to separate the Site parcels. There is a further existing tree within the western Site parcel. An existing access point is located off Stoke Road along the Site’s southern boundary, including a further access point off Stoke Road via White House Farm. Proposed footpath links adjacent to the Site’s northern boundary, the proposed footpath which will run alongside the linear tree planting through the interior of the Site as well as the informal routes proposed through the POS to the east, will serve to increase accessibility across the Site and provide connections with the wider PRoW network and countryside beyond. Whilst it is inevitable that the landscape character of the Site will change, such that two parcels one divided into paddocks for horses and the other used for motorhome and caravan storage would be replaced by residential development and associated green infrastructure, the Site contains few features of landscape interest apart from a mature tree within the eastern parcel, gently sloping landform, sections of boundary vegetation and an internal linear vegetation belt running through the interior of the Site which is to be removed and replanted as part of the proposals. Further to this, existing tree and hedgerow cover where it exists would benefit from infilling and reinforcement. Where vegetation cover is absent, the Site would benefit from new areas of hedgerow and tree planting to Site boundaries and within POS. The retention as well as the provision of new structural planting along the Site boundaries, new tree and hedgerow planting within areas of proposed POS and within development parcels as well as habitat creation, including the provision of SuDS attenuation features to the south-east and south-west of the Site, will result in some beneficial landscape effects in the long term. Landscape character associated with the land to the south of the Site within which the new surface water attenuation facility is proposed, will remain largely unaltered as a result of the proposals apart from the initial ground remodelling works and the removal of five fruit trees and a small area of grass land used for horse grazing. By contrast, the landscape will benefit from the provision of an attenuation facility in this location, introducing new habitats and increasing biodiversity within this part of the landscape.

APPENDIX C: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)

High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None

Site Landscape Features/

Characteristics

Medium Medium Construction: No Landform across the Site generally slopes gently in a south-easterly direction from a high point of Moderate Minor Adverse Minor Site Landscape Features Medium approximately 21.5m AON at the north-west corner of the Site to 13.75m AON to south-east adjacent to the Adverse Adverse / Landform Site’s southern boundary with Stoke Road. Negligible Completion: Low There are some views towards the wider landscape to the south from points along the northern boundary Year 15: Low / afforded by the combination of sloping landform and limited vegetation cover. Negligible In general, development would not affect landform within the Site except for localised changes to accommodate the internal access road and to create the two SuDS ponds within areas of POS to the south- east and south-west of the Site.

There will be effects to the landform within the land to the south of the Site within which the attenuation facility is proposed. This will effect only a small area of the overall landscape in order to accommodate the proposed attenuation facility and will be localised and limited in extent.

Medium Medium Construction: No There is limited vegetation within the Site itself apart from an existing mature tree within the eastern portion of Minor Adverse Negligible Negligible / Site Landscape Features Medium / Low the Site which is to be retained as part of the proposals. A linear belt of vegetation also traverses north to Minor Woodland, Trees, south through the interior of the Site which will be removed and replanted as part of the proposals. Hedgerow Beneficial Hedgerows and Vegetation Completion: Low and tree planting defines part of the northern, western and southern boundaries, although this is of overall low arboricultural value, appearing gappy and sporadic in places. The single tree within the western Site parcel is Year 15: Negligible of low quality and will also be removed as part of the proposals. There is an absence of vegetation along the eastern boundary and part of the southern boundary. Where possible, the majority of existing landscape features will be retained as part of the proposals and reinforced with new tree and hedgerow planting. Three hedgerows in total will be removed in order to accommodate the highway works to the south of Stoke Road and in order to facilitate the Site access road. However, hedgerow removal will be limited in extent and new hedgerow planting will be provided to mitigate against the loss. Five fruit trees within the land to the south of the Site, will be removed in order to accommodate the proposed attenuation basin. New tree planting within areas of POS within land to the north of Stoke Road will mitigate against tree loss. New planting to Site boundaries and within the proposed areas of POS within the land to the north of the Site would mature over time, serving to set new development within a robust landscape framework at the edge of the settlement. This will serve to reinforce landscape character across the Site in a positive way.

APPENDIX C: LANDSCAPE EFFECTS TABLE (LET)

High High High Yes Adverse Adverse Adverse Medium Medium Medium No Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low Low N/A Negligible None

Low Low Construction: None No Currently, there are no water features or watercourses within the Site. Negligible Negligible Negligible Site Landscape Features Water Features and Completion: None The proposed attenuation features within the areas of POS to the south-west and south-east of the Site will Watercourses provide landscape, amenity and biodiversity value and bring benefits to the immediate and local landscape. Year 15: None Further to this, land to the south of the Site will be used to create a new surface water attenuation facility which will contribute to biodiversity and habitat value to the local landscape. Overall, the proposals would result in areas of horse paddocks, motorhome and caravan storage being replaced by attenuation features and associated planting. New shrub and tree planting will serve to integrate the attenuation basins into the landscape and provide increased habitat value and benefits to local biodiversity.

Medium / Medium / Construction: No The land to the north of Stoke Road associated with the proposed development Site consists of two parcels, Minor Adverse Minor Adverse Negligible / Site Landscape Features Low Low Medium / Low one currently used for motorhome and caravan storage and the other parcel divided into paddocks for horses. / Negligible Minor Land Use and Open Space Beneficial Completion: Low The Ecology Appraisal considered the landscape within the Site, namely Parcel 1 as comprising ‘species poor semi-improved condition, comprising common and widespread species.’ Further to this, other habitats Year 15: Low / within the Site included field boundary hedgerow and tree planting to the Site’s perimeter, a large mature tree Negligible within the eastern Site parcel and a section of linear tree and hedgerow planting traversing north to south between the two Site parcels. Landscape to the south of the Site, including the area of land located immediately south of Stoke Road associated with proposed minor highway works, referred to as Parcels 2 and 3, is described within the Ecology Appraisal as comprising ‘Improved grassland’, consisting of ‘horse paddocks, with some fruit tree, short lengths of hedges, small timber horse shelters, a dry ditch and strips of ruderal vegetation along the road and access track to the East.’ Overall, the Site can be considered to be representative of a relatively non-distinctive landscape within the local context. The Site is not currently publicly accessible. However, a number of PROWs, including the Saxon Shore Way runs to the east and west of the Site, linked by a further PRoW which runs east to west across the agricultural land to the north of the Site. Proposed pedestrian routes will be incorporated as part of the proposed GI one of which will run parallel with the northern boundary, providing connections with the surrounding PRoWs network to the east and west. A further footpath is proposed running parallel with the proposed linear hedgerow and tree planting within the Site. Proposed informal footpath links will be incorporated into the proposed area of POS within the east of the Site. These will serve to increase accessibility across the Site, connecting to the wider pedestrian network and countryside as well as the existing village centre to the west. On completion, the development will serve to increase accessibility across the Site and augment habitat and biodiversity value across the Site.

*Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

[Page left intentionally blank] APPENDIX D

[Page left intentionally blank] Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

APPENDIX D: VISUAL EFFECTS TABLE (VET)

Ref Receptor Type Judged Sensitivity of Judged Magnitude of Visual Effects Description/ Notes Overall Overall Overall and Location Visual Receptor Effect at Effect upon Effect 10 (including approx no. Construction Completion Years post of dwellings where Phase Completion applicable)

Susceptibility Value Distance Nature Is the View Size/Scale of Visual Major Major Major to Change from Site of View Permanent or Effect (incl. degree Moderate Moderate Moderate Boundary Transient? of contrast/ Minor Minor Minor (or Built integration) (at Negligible Negligible Negligible Developme Stages of Project) None None None nt where High High stated) Full High Adverse or Adverse or Adverse or Medium Medium (approx. Partial Medium Beneficial Beneficial Beneficial Low Low m/km) Glimpse Low None Negligible/ None

Residents along Medium Medium / 9m to 60m Full / Permanent Construction: High • Views towards the Site and the proposals vary from full to glimpsed. Major adverse Moderate Moderate / A Stoke Road in close High Partial / Completion: • Views of new housing within the Site as perceived by residents of adverse Minor adverse proximity to the Site Glimpsed High / Medium the two properties located immediately adjacent to the Site’s and its boundaries Year 10: southern boundary, including the single dwelling house and White Medium / Low House Farm, will comprise close up views of new housing within the [Viewpoints 1, 2A & eastern and western parcels, respectively. 2B] • In general, views over a small parcel of grazing land and an adjacent parcel containing caravans located at the edge of the village, will be replaced by a small amount of housing, associated infrastructure and new planting to Site boundaries and within areas of POS. New housing will be seen in the context of the existing developed edge associated with Hoo St Werburgh, including housing to the north of Stoke Road and that adjacent to the Site’s southern boundary. Further to this, new housing will be seen in the context of the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm, located immediately adjacent to the Site’s western boundary. • New housing as seen from the detached dwelling house along the Site’s southern boundary, will be perceived from upper floor windows of rear and side elevations and maybe glimpsed from the ground floor conservatory, comprising views of rooflines and rear and side elevations of new housing within the Site, the majority of which is set back from the southern boundary beyond rear gardens and on plot tree planting. Although initially there will be glimpsed views towards housing within the western parcel these will be limited due to intervening proposed built form within the eastern parcel and the proposed vegetation belt through the interior of the Site. • Views of new housing within the western parcel will be gained from the rear elevation of White House Farm located along the Site’s southern boundary, seen beyond associated agricultural buildings, comprising rooflines and front elevations of new housing and associated garages and driveways set back beyond an area of POS, SuDS and new tree planting. Views towards housing located further north within the Site parcel may also be gained, seen beyond the shared driveways and main access road, comprising front elevations of linked properties. Further views of new housing within the Site parcel will comprise rooflines visible beyond intervening built form and on plot vegetation, visible on raised ground within the Site. Views of housing within the eastern Site parcel are likely to be obscured by intervening built form within the western Site parcel and also the proposed vegetation belt traversing the interior of the Site, although initially it is likely that there will be glimpses of rooflines seen beyond those immediately apparent within the western parcel. • Views of new housing within the Site from housing to the west of the Site on Stoke Road, will be limited and comprise medium range views of rooflines and rear or side elevations of a number of

*Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

proposed dwellings located within the western parcel immediately adjacent to the Site’s southern boundary, seen obliquely from the rear elevation beyond boundary vegetation and features and seen beyond the agricultural buildings associated with White House Farm. Views of new housing will be seen in the context of the adjacent permitted development at Street Farm once it has come forward, as well as the existing settlement edge and housing along Stoke Road. • Once mature, proposed, retained and supplemented vegetation to Site boundaries and within areas of POS will serve to set development within a robust landscape framework, screening and softening the appearance of built form in views from adjacent residences.

Road users of Stoke Medium Medium 0m to 135m Full / Transient Construction: High • Views of the Site and its boundaries vary along the road corridor Major adverse Moderate Minor adverse B Road Partial / Completion: Medium from full to partial views of the Site and its boundaries as well as full adverse Glimpsed Year 10: Medium / to glimpsed views over the grassland within the Site’s eastern [Viewpoints 1, 2A, 2B Low parcel. & 3] • Views of the Site and the proposals for vehicular users travelling east along the road corridor, at the point at which the road passes existing dwellings to the west of White House Farm and the Site (viewpoint 1), comprise views of the southern Site boundary in addition to a number of properties and associated vegetation and boundary features located along Stoke Road, including built form and boundary features associated with the detached dwelling house and White House Farm located along the Site’s southern boundary. • Where views of new housing within the Site occur from this location, these will comprise partial to glimpsed views of rooflines and side elevations of a number of proposed dwellings and associated garages within the eastern parcel set back from the southern boundary and Stoke Road in accordance with the existing building line, seen beyond retained and proposed vegetation to boundaries and within areas of POS. Built form located beyond the single detached dwelling house will not be visible from this location, set back from the southern boundary beyond POS and rear gardens. • Views of the Site become increasingly open as the road passes directly adjacent with the Sites southern boundary, permitting full views over the ground plane and towards the Site’s northern boundary, comprising vegetation and post and wire fencing (viewpoint 2A). The mature tree within the eastern parcel and the dense tree and hedgerow planting traversing the interior of the Site as well as that located along the northern boundary, can also be perceived from this point along the road corridor. • Where view of new housing within the Site are perceived from this location, these will comprise close range views of new housing set back from the southern boundary and Stoke Road, in accordance with the existing building line and set back beyond an area of POS, SuDS and new tree planting. Views will comprise partial to glimpsed views of rooflines and upper floor windows to the front elevations associated with new housing and garages located directly east of the single dwelling house. Beyond this will be glimpsed views of rooflines and rear elevations of new housing backing onto the initially perceived housing, beyond which glimpses of rooflines and front facades of proposed dwellings will be visible located on higher ground adjacent to the northern boundary and beyond the proposed area of pos and associated play and planting located adjacent to the eastern boundary. • Views of the rear elevations and rooflines of new housing directly north of the single detached dwelling house along the Site’s southern boundary, will be perceived set back from the southern boundary and the existing dwelling beyond rear gardens and associated tree planting. Views towards further housing to the north and north-west of the eastern parcel will comprise glimpsed views of rooflines and windows of front and rear elevations, in breaks between intervening built form and vegetation. • Similarly, views of new housing within the western parcel maybe perceived at completion seen beyond intervening built form within the eastern parcel and beyond a belt of proposed planting *Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

separating the two Site parcels. Once mature, this linear vegetation belt in addition to proposed planting to Site boundaries and within areas of POS, will serve to screen and soften the appearance of built form within the western parcel as perceived from this location. • Views of the Site and the proposals for vehicular users travelling west along the road corridor, at the point at which the road passes adjacent to Yew Tree Lodge and PRoW RS107 to the east of the Site (viewpoint 3), comprise partial to glimpsed views of the Site’s ground plane and boundary features. Built form associated with the existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh as well as development along Stoke Road including the single detached dwelling house and White House Farm, located along the Sites southern boundary, are discernible in the view at this point. • Where views of new housing within the Site are visible from this location, these will comprise partial to glimpsed views of the side elevations and rooflines of built form within the eastern parcel. Built form will be seen beyond proposed vegetation along the southern and eastern boundaries as well as within the pos located adjacent to the eastern boundary, including the existing mature tree, and vegetation located along the southern boundary of the eastern Site parcel. Further to this, new housing will be seen set beyond the main access road into the Site. • New housing within the western Site parcel will be screened by intervening built form and vegetation associated with that located within and along the boundaries of the eastern Site parcel and also the proposed planting through the interior of the Site. • Although housing will come forward slightly in the view as experienced along the road corridor, views of new housing will be perceived in the context of the existing developed edge associated with the settlement and will form a contiguous element within the view, congruent with the building line evident along Stoke Road. • Views towards the proposed attenuation basin within the land to the south of Stoke Road (Viewpoint 2B) will be limited to glimpsed views from residents at Yew Tree Lodge Care Home seen from upper floor windows to the rear elevation and beyond intervening vegetation. Views are most likely to be affected during preliminary construction and excavation works, reducing at operation and overtime. Residents and Medium Medium / 135m Full- Permanent Construction: • It is likely that there will be full to partial views of construction works Major / Moderate / Minor adverse C workers of Yew Tree Low Partial High-Medium onsite and subsequent development once complete for residents Moderate Minor adverse Lodge residential Completion: Medium and workers of Yew Tree Lodge. Where views occur, these will be adverse care home (fronts Year 10: Medium / mostly restricted to views of new housing within the eastern Site onto Stoke Road) Low parcel gained from upper and ground floor windows to the front and side elevation of the building, including views of the Site permitted [Viewpoint: 3] from an annex to the rear of Yew Tree Lodge, seen beyond boundary walls and vegetation. Similarly, views of the proposals will be gained from the driveway, rear courtyard and other communal areas associated with the property. • Views towards paddocks within the eastern parcel will be replaced by built form, associated access road and GI. • Once complete, where there are views of new housing within the Site parcel, this will be seen at a distance beyond the road corridor and boundary features associated with the adjacent field and in the context of the TV mast and associated structures. Views of new housing will predominantly comprise glimpsed views of rooflines within the eastern Site parcel, set back from the eastern and southern boundaries beyond structural boundary planting, an area of POS and new tree planting to the east and further areas of POS including attenuation features adjacent to the southern boundary to the south-east and south-west. • Views of new housing will be seen in the context of existing housing to the west of Stoke Road including a number of properties located along its southern boundary. Further to this, new housing within the Site will be perceived in the context of the existing settlement edge associated with Hoo St Werburgh, such that views of built form will come forward slightly in the view. • Over time, as planting matures views of built form within the Site will be softened and screened by boundary hedgerow and tree planting *Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

as well as structural planting within the POS to the east of the Site.

Users of PRoW High Medium / 119m to Full / Transient Construction: • Views along the PRoW vary, permitting full, partial and glimpsed Moderate Moderate / Minor adverse / D RS107 / Saxon Shore Low 892m Partial High / Medium views of the Site and its boundaries along its length. Views of the adverse Minor adverse Negligible Way (long distance Completion: proposals will generally lessen further north along the footpath seen footpath) Medium / Low at a distance beyond intervening features such as landform, Year 10: Low / vegetation and built form (viewpoint 14). Views of the proposals are [Viewpoints: 4, 5 and Negligible likely to occur as the PRoW moves south towards the Site and it 14] boundaries (viewpoint 4 and 5). • Overall, the proposals will result in views towards a small parcel of land sub-divided into paddocks and a further parcel used as motorhome and caravan storage located to the north of Stoke Road replaced by views of a small amount of residential development seen at a distance along the PRoW. • There will be full to partial views towards construction works and new housing within the Site for users of PRoW RS98 / Saxon Shore Way at the point at which the PRoW passes perpendicular to the Site’s northern boundary (viewpoint 4). • Views of new housing within the Site will vary from this location, although the majority of housing will appear set back from the eastern boundary beyond an area of POS, tree planting and proposed boundary vegetation. Housing to the north-east of the Site will come forward in the view as perceived from the PRoW, seen beyond and within the context of the adjacent field parcel to the east and associated TV mast and associated structures.

• North of the PRoW as it passes perpendicular to PRoW RS98, south of Tile Barn Farm, there are full to partial views towards the Site and its boundaries (viewpoint 5). Views predominately comprise views of hedgerow and tree planting along the Site’s northern boundary and also include full to partial views of the linear hedgerow and tree belt as well as the mature tree both of which are located within the Site. The rear elevation of the single detached dwelling house located along the Site’s southern boundary can be seen at a distance and beyond intervening vegetation from this location along the PRoW. • Once new housing is in place, there are likely to be partial to glimpsed views of rooflines and upper floor windows associated with the front elevation of new housing within the Site, set back from the northern Site boundary beyond shared access roads and driveways including a narrow strip of POS. Further to this, views of new housing will be seen beyond retained and supplemented as well as proposed boundary vegetation. • Where views of new housing within the Site occur, development will be perceived in the context and as extending eastwards of the existing settlement edge. However, overtime and as planting matures, the perception of new built form within the Site will become softened and screened in views from along this point along the PRoW. • There are partial to glimpsed views of the Site and its boundaries afforded at points further north of the PRoW just south of Peninsula Way. Where views of new housing within the Site occur from this location, these will comprise distant glimpsed views of rooflines seen beyond intervening vegetation including existing and retained vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary. • Although the perception of built form will extend slightly eastwards of the existing settlement edge, views of new housing within the Site will form a small element of the overall view from this location and will be perceived in the context of the existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh as well as housing along Stoke Road, including that west of the junction with Roper’s Lane. • Furthermore, new housing will be set back from the northern boundary beyond retained and supplemented boundary vegetation and a strip of POS. Overtime proposed boundary planting will *Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

mature and further screen built form within the Site in views north of the PRoW.

Users of PRoW RS98 High Medium 212m to Partial; Transient Construction: Views along the PRoW vary permitting full, partial and glimpsed and no Moderate Moderate / Minor adverse / E / Saxon Shore Way 507m Glimpse; High / Moderate views of the Site and its boundaries at points along its length. adverse Minor adverse Negligible (long distance None Completion: footpath) Moderate Views of the proposals generally lessen further north and east of the PRoW [Viewpoints: 5, 6 & Year 10: Low such that there are no views of the Site along the eastern extent of the 12] PRoW at the point at which it meets Roper’s Lane, owing to intervening landform and vegetation associated with the reservoir to the south of Tile Farm Barn (viewpoint 12).

Further westwards along the PRoW where full to partial views of the Site and its boundaries occur, the proposals will be seen at a distance beyond retained and proposed boundary vegetation comprising glimpses of rooflines and upper floor windows through breaks in the intervening vegetation (viewpoint 5). Further to this, new housing will be set back from the northern boundary beyond shared access driveways and a narrow strip of POS and intervening features such as landform, vegetation and built form (viewpoint 14).

Views of the proposals are likely to occur as the PRoW moves south towards the Site and it boundaries (viewpoint 4 and 5).

Overall, the proposals will result in views towards a two parcels of land one of which is sub-divided into paddocks and the other used as motorhome and caravan storage located to the north of Stoke Road, replaced by views of a small amount of residential development seen at a distance and to varying degrees along the PRoW.

Users of PRoW High Medium 212m to Full / Transient Construction: Medium • Views towards the Site from along the PRoW vary from full to partial Moderate Moderate / Minor adverse / F RS112 542m Partial Completion: Medium comprising views of the Site’s northern boundary vegetation. adverse Minor adverse Negligible Year 10: Low Glimpses of the Site’s ground plane within the eastern parcel and [Viewpoints: 6 and 7] towards Yew Tree Lodge located along Stoke Road are afforded through breaks in the intervening vegetation and seen beyond the dense linear hedgerow and tree planting located along the northern boundary. • Views of new housing within the Site will predominately comprise glimpses of rooflines, particularly that associated with new housing within the eastern parcel, seen above intervening retained and supplemented boundary planting along the northern boundary with glimpses of first floor windows to front elevations. Views of new housing will be lessened as proposed development will be set back from the Site’s northern boundary beyond retained and supplemented boundary vegetation and set back beyond a narrow strip of POS, private driveways and a shared access road. • Views of the proposals will change as users travel southwards along the PRoW. Views from the PRoW will become increasingly intimate and enclosed further south of the PRoW within close proximity to the Site’s northern boundary (viewpoint 6) due to boundary vegetation associated with the field parcels immediately north of Stoke Road, including the vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary as well as vegetation running adjacent to the PRoW along the eastern edge of the recent housing estate to the east of Bell’s Lane. • To the north of the PRoW (viewpoint 7) there are long views over the immediate field parcel and towards the River Medway and landscape to the south. However, sloping topography within the Site parcels coupled with northern boundary vegetation limit views across the Site. As such views of new housing within the Site would be limited and prevented by retained and supplemented planting to Site boundaries. Further to this, the setting back of proposed development from the northern boundary beyond a strip of POS and drive ways and along southward sloping ground, will serve to *Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

reduce the appearance of new housing in views from this location. Where views of new housing occur, these will comprise glimpses of rooflines predominately associated with new housing within the eastern parcel, rising above the intervening boundary vegetation. Glimpses of upper floor windows of front elevations may be visible through breaks in the intervening boundary vegetation associated with the Site. Further to this, where views of new housing occur, this will be perceived in the context of adjacent built form along Stoke Road and serve as a small amount of residential built form in the context of surrounding industrial and built development including Kingsnorth power station and high voltage power lines prominent feature on the horizon to the north and east. • As planting along the Site boundaries and within areas of POS matures, views of new housing within the Site will lessen as development is set within a robust structural landscape of proposed and retained hedgerow and tree planting.

Residents of housing Medium Medium N / A Partial / Permanent Construction: Moderate Moderate / Minor adverse / G within the recent Glimpse / Medium • Views towards the Site for residents to the east of Bell’s Lane, adverse Minor adverse Negligible namely those along Headstock Rise / Rivenhall Way (Viewpoint 7) housing development None Completion: Medium / to the east of Bell’s Low and residents along Baryntyne Crescent (Viewpoint 6) vary from full Lane Year 10: Low to partial views of the Site’s northern boundary vegetation and glimpsed views towards the ground plane within the eastern Site [Viewpoints 6 & 7] parcel, afforded through breaks in the intervening vegetation and seen beyond the dense hedgerow and tree planting located along the northern boundary. These views are experienced obliquely from upper floor side and front elevation windows beyond substantial vegetation along the eastern edge of the housing area. • Where views of new housing within the Site occur, these will predominately comprise glimpses of rooflines, particularly that associated with new housing within the eastern parcel, seen above intervening retained and supplemented boundary planting along the northern boundary with glimpses of first floor windows to front elevations. Views of new housing will be lessened as proposed development will be set back from the Site’s northern boundary beyond retained and supplemented boundary vegetation. Further to this, new housing will be set back from the northern boundary beyond a narrow strip of POS, private driveways and a shared access road. • Views of new housing within the Site will lessen as experienced by residents of housing closer to the Site and its boundaries such as residents along Baryntyne Crescent (viewpoint 6) due to boundary vegetation associated with the field parcels immediately north of Stoke Road, including the vegetation along the Site’s northern boundary as well as vegetation running adjacent to the PRoW along the eastern edge of the recent housing estate to the east of Bell’s Lane. • Longer more open views are likely to be perceived for residents of housing along the elevated ground to the north of the Site (Viewpoint 7), affording panoramas across the landscape to the south and east within which the Site sits. However, the combined effects of the southward sloping ground plane along which proposed development is located as well as retained and supplemented boundary vegetation, will serve to screen and soften the appearance of new built form in views from these residences. • Further to this, the setting back of proposed development from the northern boundary beyond a strip of POS and private drive ways and along southward sloping ground, will serve to reduce the appearance of new housing in views from existing residences. • Where views of new housing occur, these will comprise glimpses of rooflines predominately associated with new housing within the eastern parcel, rising above the intervening boundary vegetation. Glimpses of upper floor windows of front elevations may be visible through breaks in the intervening boundary vegetation associated with the Site. • Further to this, where views of new housing occur, this will be perceived in the context of adjacent built form along Stoke Road and serve as a small amount of residential built form in the context

*Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

of surrounding industrial and built development including the chimney and other structures associated with Kingsnorth power station and the high voltage power lines prominent feature on the horizon to the north and east. • As planting along the Site boundaries and within areas of POS matures, views of new housing within the Site will lessen as development is set within a robust structural landscape of proposed and retained hedgerow and tree planting. Residents of housing Medium Medium / 676m Partial / Permanent Construction: • View towards the Site and the proposals from the residences to the Moderate / Minor adverse Negligible H to the east of Abbots Low Glimpse / Medium / Low east of Abbots Court Road will vary from partial, glimpsed to none. Minor adverse Court Rd None Completion: Low • Where views of new housing within the Site occur, these will be [Viewpoint 8] Year 10: Neg gained from the upper floor rear windows of dwellings to the east of the road, beyond boundary vegetation and comprising glimpsed views of rooflines seen through breaks in the intervening vegetation associated with the farmland to the south of Stoke Road as well as that proposed along the Site’s southern boundary and within areas of POS and rear gardens located adjacent to the southern boundary. • New planting to site boundaries and within areas of POS adjacent to the southern boundary, will serve to soften views of built form within the Site as seen from the rear of these residences. Further to this, built form along the southern boundary will serve to screen views of new housing within the Site as seen from along the PRoW. • Where limited views of new housing may be seen from these residences, this will be perceived in the context of existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh, serving to extend the perception of built form slightly eastwards in the view. • Views of new housing within the Site will be further lessened over time as planting to Site boundaries and within areas of POS matures.

Users PRoW 351B / High Medium 676m to Partial/ Transient Construction: • Forms part of Medway Council’s published ‘South Walk 2 – Hoo’, Moderate Moderate / Minor adverse / I Saxon Shore Way 620m Glimpsed Med/High However, the Site is located at some distance and does not contain adverse Minor adverse Negligible (long distance Completion: Med any points of interest identified within this walk. However, a World footpath) Year 10: Low War Two Pillbox is located along the walk to the east of the PRoW, lying some distance from the Site and separated by intervening field [Viewpoints 8 and 9] parcels and associated boundary vegetation, serving to limit intervisibility between the Site and the landscape in which the Pillbox is located. • Views towards the Site from along the PRoW vary from partial to glimpsed, comprising views of the dense hedgerow and tree planting along the Site’s northern boundary as well as the treebelt which runs through the interior of the Site. • Views over the Site’s ground plane and towards the southern boundary vegetation and boundary features are mostly obscured by intervening vegetation associated with the boundaries of the field network to the south of the Site. There are full to partial views of the single detached dwelling house and White House Farm located along the Site’s southern boundary, particularly evident at select locations to the east of the PRoW (Viewpoint 9). • However, views of these structures and vegetation associated with the Site’s northern boundary as well as that within the Site, become increasingly screened by intervening vegetation as perceived to the west of the PRoW (Viewpoint 8). In this view, the existing settlement edge, consisting of properties along Stoke Road, is evident in the view, the perception of which extends to include the single detached dwelling house along the Site’s southern boundary. • New housing within the Site will be located along the eastern edge of settlement to the north of Stoke Road, extending the perception of built development slightly eastwards in the view as experienced from certain points along the PRoW. • With the proposals in place, views of new housing within the Site will comprise distant glimpsed views of rooflines seen beyond intervening vegetation associated with the field network to the south of the Site and Stoke Road as well as hedgerow and tree planting proposed along the Site’s southern boundary. Further to this, new housing within the Site will be set back from the Site’s southern *Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

boundary beyond two areas of POS including SuDs and new tree planting. New housing will also be located beyond existing development located along the Site’s southern boundary, namely the single detached dwelling house and White House Farm, set back beyond rear gardens with regards to the former and beyond an area of POS, SuDs and new tree planting with regards to the latter. This serves to soften and screen the appearance of built form as perceived in views of users of the PRoW and also sets new development in the context of existing built form along the eastern edge of the village and along Stoke Road. • Where views of new housing within the Site are perceivable from along the PRoW, its appearance would be softened in time as planting matures and would mostly be obscured in the longer term. Users of public High Medium 676m to Partial / Transient Construction: Medium • Forms part of Medway Council’s published ‘South Walk 1 – Upnor Moderate Minor adverse Negligible J footpath RS100/ 1.23km Glimpsed Completion: Medium / to Hoo St Werburgh’ and ‘South Walk 2 – Hoo’, However, the Site is adverse Saxon Shore Way / None Low located at some distance to these and does not contain any points (long distance Year 10: Low / of interest identified within this walk. However, Hoo St Werburgh footpath) Negligible - None Parish Church serves as a prominent landmark on the skyline in views as perceived along the PRoW. [Viewpoints 8 and 16] • Views towards the Site and its boundaries vary along the PRoW, lessening further south of the PRoW, obscured by intervening vegetation associated with a watercourse running north to south through the farmland. Further to this, views of the Site are prevented by built form associated with the existing settlement edge, including houses along Abbots Court Road, serving as a prominent feature in views for users travelling north along the PRoW (viewpoint 15). • Therefore, with new housing in place, it is unlikely that there will be views of new housing within the Site as perceived by users to the south of the PRoW. • Distant glimpsed to partial views towards the Site and its boundaries may be obtained for users to the north of the PRoW as it emerges onto Abbots Court Road and meets with PRoW RS351B (viewpoint 8). • Where views of new housing within the Site occur, these will comprise glimpsed views of rooflines seen through breaks in the intervening vegetation associated with the farmland to the south of Stoke Road as well as that proposed along the Site’s southern boundary and within areas of POS and rear gardens located adjacent to the southern boundary. New planting to Site boundaries and within areas of POS, will serve to soften views of built form within the Site as seen from this location. Further to this, built form along the southern boundary will serve to screen views of new housing within the Site as seen from along the PRoW. • Where limited views of new housing may be seen to the north of the PRoW, this will be perceived in the context of existing developed edge of Hoo St Werburgh, serving to extend the perception of built form slightly eastwards in the view. • Views of new housing within the Site will be further lessened over time as planting to Site boundaries and within areas of POS matures. Workers and visitors Low Medium 1.23km None Transient Construction: None • Views towards the Site and its boundaries are mostly prevented by Negligible Negligible Negligible K Vicarage Lane Completion: None intervening vegetation associated with the watercourse which runs Industrial Estate Year 10: None north to south through the farmland to the south of Abbots Court Road. The TV mast located within the field parcel to the east of the [Viewpoint 15] Site is evident on the skyline, rising above the intervening riparian vegetation. • Views of the southern settlement edge are dominant in views from this location. • With development in place, it is unlikely that there will be views of the proposals from this location. Users of public High Medium 1.24km Partial / Transient Construction: • Forms part of Medway Council’s published ‘South Walk 2 – Hoo’, Minor adverse Minor adverse / Negligible L footpath RS49/ Saxon Glimpsed Medium / Low However, the Site is located at some distance and does not contain Negligible Shore Way (long /None Completion: Low any points of interest identified within this walk. distance footpath) Year 10: • Views towards the Site and its boundaries vary along the PRoW Low / Negligible from partial, glimpsed to none. [Viewpoint 16] • Where views of the Site occur, these comprise views of dense tree

*Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

and hedgerow planting located along the Site’s northern boundary as well as the linear vegetation belt located within the Site. The single detached dwelling house and White House Farm are visible in views from this location along the PRoW, in front of which can be discerned grassland and boundary hedgerow associated with the fields immediately south of the Site and Stoke Road. Distant glimpses of rooflines and facades of housing associated with recent development along the settlements eastern edge to the east of Bell’s Lane can just be discerned in breaks between intervening vegetation and built form along Stoke Road, beyond which can also be discerned high voltage pylons on the distant horizon. • With the development in place, views of new housing within the Site would comprise a very small element of built form in the view in the context of existing dwellings along Stoke Road and the existing eastern edge of Hoo St Werburgh, extending the perception of built form slightly eastwards in the view. Distant views of rooflines and facades associated with new housing within the Site will be set beyond retained and supplemented boundary planting along Site boundaries and within areas of POS, serving to soften and screen the appearance of built form in views from along the PRoW. • Over time and as planting matures, views of new housing within the Site will be further screened and softened. Users of public High Medium 539m Partial / Transient Construction: Med • Views towards the Site comprise partial views of the boundary Moderate Moderate/ minor Minor adverse M footpath RS95 Glimpsed Completion: Med vegetation associated with the Site and limited glimpsed views of adverse adverse Year 10: Low the grassland within the Site seen through breaks in the intervening [Viewpoint 10] vegetation associated with the boundaries of the fields to the south of Stoke Road. Further to this there are full to partial views of the single detached dwelling house and associated boundary features located along the Site’s southern boundary in addition to glimpsed views of White House Farm just visible above intervening vegetation. • The large mature tree within the Site’s eastern parcel is visible from this location, seen above intervening vegetation. • Where views of new housing within the Site occur, these will initially comprise views of front facing facades and rooflines of a number of proposed dwellings and associated garages to the east of the single dwelling house located along the Site’s southern boundary, set back from the road corridor beyond proposed boundary vegetation and an area of POS, SuDS and new tree planting, the southern extent of built form consistent with the existing building line along Stoke Road and set back from the eastern boundary beyond the main access Road. • Further housing within the eastern Site will be perceived beyond the proposed housing located adjacent to the southern boundary and comprise partial to glimpsed views of rooflines rising northwards in accordance with the landform towards the northern boundary set beyond driveways, access roads and rear gardens. The retained mature tree and proposed planting within the area of POS within the eastern Site parcel serves to screen and soften views of rooflines associated with new housing within the Site in views from this location. • Housing within the western parcel will be seen beyond proposed vegetation located within the Site, running north to south along the proposed swale. Views of new housing will comprise glimpsed views of rooflines and upper floor windows seen above the intervening vegetation and built form associated with housing along Stoke Road including White House Farm and associated farm buildings. Further to this, new built form will be set back from the southern boundary beyond an area of POS, SuDS and new tree planting, serving to further soften and screen views of new housing within the Site from this location. • In general, views of new housing within the Site will be seen at a distance beyond intervening boundary vegetation associated with the field network to the south of Stoke Road and beyond built form located along its southern boundary. Further to this, new development will be seen in the context of the existing developed edge of the village, evident within the view and perceived as slightly enveloping the Site as it extends north of the Site northern boundary *Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

Stoke Road, Hoo St Werburgh – Landscape and Visual Appraisal: Visual Effects Table - DRAFT fpcr

as perceived from this location. New housing will serve to extend the perception of built form eastwards of the existing developed edge in the view from this location. However, the southern extent of new built form within the Site will be consistent with the existing building line associated with existing housing along Stoke Road. • Over time as planting matures, new housing within the Site will be set within a robust landscape structure of retained and proposed vegetation along boundaries and within areas of POS, softening appearance of built form at the edge of the settlement. Vehicular users Medium Medium / 911m None Transient Construction: Neg None None None N travelling north along Low Completion: None • Views of the Site and its boundaries are prevented by intervening Jacob’s Lane Year 10: None landform and vegetation associated with the field network to the south of Stoke Road. [Viewpoints 11] Vehicular users Medium Medium 525m to Glimpse / Transient Construction: Neg • The majority of views towards the Site for vehicular users travelling Negligible Negligible Negligible O travelling south along 994m None Completion: Neg southwards along Roper’s Lane, are prevent owing to intervening Roper’s Lane Year 10: Neg vegetation associated with the field network to the north and east of the Site, including that associated with the reservoir to the south of [Viewpoints 12 & 13] Tile Barn Farm, the avenue of trees along PRoW RS107 as well as vegetation associated with the northern boundary of the field located directly adjacent to the east of the Site. • Distant glimpses of the dense tree and hedgerow plating along the Site’s northern boundary is just discernible in views to the north of the road corridor, seen beyond Tile Barn Farm and associated caravan park, preventing further views of the Site from this location (Viewpoint 13). • Once development is in place, it is unlikely that there will be views of new housing located within the Site as perceived by users of the road corridor owing to the combination of intervening vegetation, built form and sloping topography, the latter relating to the position of new development on the south sloping ground within the Site.

*Unless stated otherwise, the ‘Site’ refers to the development proposals located to the north of Stoke Road.

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