BOREHAM MEAD’ LANDSCAPE and VISUAL ASSESSMENT for HPH Commercial Property Rev D: December 2013

PROPOSED HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AT BOREHAM ROAD, WARMINSTER ‘BOREHAM MEAD’ LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL ASSESSMENT for HPH Commercial Property Rev D: December 2013

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Landmark Ref: 2561 Boreham LVIA

Client: HPH Commercial Property This document was produced under Landmark contract for HPH Commercial Property

WRITTEN CHECKED AUTHORISED INITIALS DATE INITIALS DATE INITIALS DATE MS 24.07.13 DDL 26.07.13 RNR 26.07.13 Rev A 06.08.13 CM Minor text amends

Rev B 06.08.13 CM Path added

Rev C 03.12.13 CM Changed to relate to Hab scheme

Rev D 09.12.13 CM Amendment to figure 10

Tel: 0117 923 0455 Fax: 0117 925 3702 HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

SUMMARY

This landscape and visual assessment has been prepared to inform a planning application for a housing development at Boreham Road, (B3134), on the eastern edge of Warminster. The development site occupies approximately 1.2 hectares.

The development comprises 35 houses, mostly 2 storey, with associated hard surfaces and landscaping. The landscaping will comprise native screen planting around the northern and eastern perimeter of the site, and hedge and tree planting within the development to break up the built form.

The site is located on the east side of Warminster within an area of estate and village housing with a broad range of properties in terms of age and style. The prevailing character is suburban, interspersed with fields and open space, providing contrast to the dense urban townscape in the centre of the town. It is an area of transition to the open countryside further east.

Trees are an important element in this landscape and while they confer a sense of greenness, they also block views creating an enclosed landscape. As a result there are no distant views of the application site from the edge of Salisbury Plain to the north, or from the AONB to the south. The mature trees and hedging surrounding the application site will be retained within ecological corridors, apart from the loss of a short section to build the road access and so their important contribution to the local area will be maintained and they will visually contain the proposed development. The proposed housing will not front the road but is set back, behind a landscape buffer comprising an existing hedgerow, an existing watercourse, a strip of meadow grassland and a proposed native hedge. The housing is low density, arranged around shared communal spaces and will be interspersed with native tree and hedge planting to reinforce the enclosed and green character of the proposed development.

The site lies adjacent to an existing housing estate, offices and a consented but not yet built scheme for 9 dwellings. Residents of a few properties immediately adjacent to the site will experience a moderate adverse effect to visual amenity, and this will primarily be in winter when the trees are out of leaf, but this will be reduced when the new inner hedgerow has established, providing the depth of cover that will be an effective screen even in winter. This planting will retain the green frontage to Boreham Road and to the short section of Bishopstrow Road and will maintain the sense of separation between the surrounding communities.

The Landmark Practice Summary HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

CONTENTS Page SUMMARY

1.0 INTRODUCTION - 1 -

2.0 LANDSCAPE PLANNING CONTEXT - 1 - International Landscape designations - 1 - National Landscape Designations - 1 - National planning policy - 1 - Local Plan Policies - 2 - Local Landscape/Cultural Designations - 3 - Countryside recreation - 5 -

3.0 ASSESSMENT METHOD - 5 - The Theoretical Zone of Visual Influence - 5 - Data Collection and Guidance - 5 - Receptors - 6 - Limitations to survey methods - 7 - Photography and imaging - 8 -

4.0 LANDSCAPE BASELINE - 8 - Topography and water courses - 8 - Land Use - 8 - Landscape features - 10 - Landscape character - 10 - Key Characteristics - 10 - Landscape value, vulnerability and sensitivity to development - 11 -

5.0 VISUAL BASELINE - 11 -

6.0 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT - 12 - Construction and Layout - 12 -

7.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT - 13 - Landscape and Visual Impact during Construction - 13 - Landscape and Visual Impacts during Operation - 14 - Summary of visual impact - 22 -

8.0 MITIGATION MEASURES - 22 -

9.0 SUMMARY OF LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT AND CONCLUSION - 22 -

The Landmark Practice Contents HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

FIGURES: Figure 1: Site Location Figure 2: Topography Figure 3: Theoretical Zone of Visual Influence (TZVI) Figure 4: Planning designations and landscape constraints and opportunities (2 sheets) Figure 5: Aerial photograph Figure 6: Photographs taken from the site (6 sheets) Figure 7: Viewpoint Locations Plan Figure 8: Viewpoint Photographs (9 sheets) Figure 9: Development Layout Figure 10: Development Section

APPENDIX A: Landscape and visual assessment criteria

The Landmark Practice Contents HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 This landscape and visual assessment has been prepared to inform a planning application for a housing development at Boreham Road on the eastern edge of Warminster. The development site occupies 1.2 hectares and the site is currently unmanaged grassland.

1.2 This report assesses the significance of the impact of the visual changes arising from the proposed development, together with the changes to the character and quality of the landscape.

1.3 The existing landscape character and the visual environment have been separately surveyed and assessed. The landscape assessment identifies characteristics, features and elements which constitute this particular landscape and its character. The visual baseline identifies existing views to, across or from the application site, and identifies the visual receptors, such as nearby residents or users of Public Rights of Way (PRoW) who might be affected by the proposed development.

2.0 LANDSCAPE PLANNING CONTEXT

International Landscape designations 2.1 There are no international landscape designations relating to the application site or its immediate surroundings.

National Landscape Designations 2.1 The application site does not lie within an area which is nationally designated for its landscape value or historical and cultural value, however, the northern extent of the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB lies just 1 km to the south. There is however no inter-visibility between the application site and the AONB.

National planning policy 2.2 The NPPF (March 2012) sets out the Government’s national planning policies for England and how they are to be applied. It also confirms that the purpose of the planning system is to contribute towards the achievement of sustainable development and there are three dimensions: economic, social and environmental. In addition, the NPPF identifies a twelve core land-use planning principles that un- derpin both plan-making and decision-taking. It also sets out thirteen key themes to support the twelve core planning principles in the delivery of sustainable development.

2.3 The NPPF sets out 13 key categories to support the 12 core planning principles in the delivery of sustainable development. Category 11 ‘Conserving and enhancing the natural environment’, paragraph 109 notes that the planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by, inter alia: “Protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, geological conservation interests and soils”

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2.4 With regard to developments that might affect protected species, geo-diversity sites or landscape areas, paragraph 113 advises that: “Local planning authorities should set criteria based policies against which proposals for any 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.”

2.5 In terms of the significance of different landscape designations, paragraph 115 states: “Great weight should be given to conserving landscape and scenic beauty in National Parks, the Broads and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which have the highest status of protection in relation to landscape and scenic beauty. The conservation of wildlife and cultural heritage are important considerations in all these areas, and should be given great weight in National Parks and the Broads.”

Local Plan Policies 2.6 Wiltshire Council has inherited the local plans produced by the former district councils in Wiltshire. These will remain in place until superseded by policies in the Wiltshire Core Strategy, The emerging Core Strategy will be subject to further main modifications in the autumn of 2013. Assuming it is found sound the earliest that it could be adopted will be early 2014. The application site lies in the former area of West Wiltshire District Council. Currently the lawful use of the land is agriculture, it lies outside the town boundary. The relevant policies covering designations on or adjacent to the site are:

Policy C3: Special Landscape Areas The landscape character of Special Landscape Areas will be conserved and enhanced and development will not be permitted which is considered to be detrimental to the high quality of these landscapes. Proposals for development essential to the social and economic well-being of the rural community or desirable for the enjoyment of its amenities will be permitted having regard to highways, access, scale, design, materials, location, siting, landscaping and other appropriate environmental considerations.

Policy C4: Landscape Setting The landscape settings of the historic towns of Bradford-On-Avon and Warminster will be protected. Proposals for development will not be permitted which, by reason of their scale, siting or design, would adversely affect the appearance of important physical features which are an integral part of the character and landscape setting within the areas defined on the Proposals Map.

Policy C17: Conservation Areas The special character or appearance of the designated conservation areas and their settings in West Wiltshire, including those shown on the Proposals Map and listed in Appendix A will be preserved and enhanced.

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The designation of further conservation areas under Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 will be considered from time to time where such areas are of special architectural or historic interest in the local context. Proposals will be formulated and published for the preservation and enhancement of the designated conservation areas.

Policy H1: Further Housing Development within Towns Proposals for housing development within the built-up areas of Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury and Warminster will be permitted provided that: A Siting, layout and design considerations are satisfactory and they are in keeping with the character of the surrounding area; B They would not create inappropriate backland or tandem development; C They provide adequate services for the disposal of surface water, without increase of flood risk to downstream riparian owners; Ca They provide adequate water supplies, sewerage and sewage treatment, without adversely affecting the environment; D They do not result in the loss of an open area or visual gap important for recreation or amenity reasons; E They protect and conserve important nature conservation interests; F They provide safe and convenient connection to existing and planned pedestrian, cycle and public transport networks, the highway and, where appropriate, rail facilities, without creating transport problems; G They do not conflict with any other Structure or District Plan policies. Priority will be given to proposals for the reuse of previously developed land. Further housing development outside of the urban area, as defined by town policy limits, will not be permitted during the Plan period.

2.7 In addition, Policy R5: New Recreation Space was included in the Local Plan but has since been replaced by Policy LP5 of the Leisure and Recreation DPD. This policy would not appear to be site specific in allocation of new recreation space.

2.8 Other, more general landscape related policies relevant to this development include:

Policy C6a: Landscape Features Development which would have an adverse effect on the integrity and continuity of the District’s characteristic landscape features, listed below, and their associated wildlife (wild flora and fauna), will only be permitted if the planning benefits of the proposal outweigh the harm to the local nature conservation interests.  Ponds  Hedges  Stone walls  Water courses  Chalk grasslands  Historic parklands  Semi-natural and ancient woodlands

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Appropriate management of these features will be encouraged:  generally, in accordance with the Wiltshire Biodiversity Action Plan  specifically, by the use of conditions on planning permissions and by the use of planning agreements and management agreements with landowners and developers

Policy C31a: Design Proposals for new development will be required to respect or enhance: A Townscape and landscape features and views; B Existing patterns of movement, activity and permeability; C The quality of architecture of surrounding buildings; D Historic layout and spatial characteristics. Proposals for new development on prominent or sensitive sites will be required to: A Pay particular attention to proportion, composition, form, massing and scale; B Utilise high quality materials, finishes, and details; C Integrate landscaping into the design as appropriate; D Minimise the visual impact of roads, vehicles and parking areas. A design statement may be required for prominent or sensitive sites, which should analyse the site, show how the proposal relates to the existing built context and patterns of movement, and set out the principles behind the building and landscape design.

Policy C32: Landscape Proposals for development should make provision for landscaping, including the protection of existing trees, hedges and other natural features of the site, for new planting and for appropriate earth mounding and hard features including surface treatment and boundary enclosures. Where appropriate, consideration of wildlife interest should form part of the proposals for landscaping.

Local Landscape/Cultural Designations 2.9 Relevant landscape designations covering the site are shown in Figures 4.1 & 4.2.

2.10 Immediately adjacent to the application site there are a number of listed buildings/structures. The closest are as follows: 1) A milestone near the existing field entrance on Boreham Road, Grade II, 2) Two bridges over the River Wylye on Bishopstrow Road, Grade II. One is adjacent to the application site and one lies 90 m on the other-side of the island. 3) Chatley (Grade II house), 263 m further west along Boreham Road. 4) 146 and 147 Woodcock Road (Grade II listed properties), 126 m to the north along Woodcock Road.

2.11 The nearest Scheduled Monuments to the application site are a series of Barrows 700m to the east. These are not inter-visible with the site.

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2.12 Further afield there are a number of Scheduled Monuments occupying higher ground 1.5 km to the north east. These listings comprise earthworks, barrows, hillfort settlements and enclosures. Views towards the site are possible from these locations.

2.13 The Bishopstrow Conservation area extends from the village as far as the southern channel of the river Wyley. The application site does not lie within the Conservation Area, or the island which has entirely been developed with a mill and bus depot, and lies between the application site and the Conservation Area.

Countryside recreation 2.14 There are no Public Rights of Way (PRoW) crossing the site, or immediately adjacent to the site. The nearest PRoW is 150 m to the east but there is no inter-visibility with the site due to the flat topography and intervening buildings and vegetation. A PRoW (Imber Range Perimeter Path) crosses high ground on the edge of Salisbury Plain to the north-east of the site. Views towards the site are possible from this path because of the increased elevation. The effect of the proposed development on these views is assessed. The PRoW network is shown on the OS map extract (Figure 4.1 refers).

3.0 ASSESSMENT METHOD

The Theoretical Zone of Visual Influence 3.1 The study area is determined by the Theoretical Zone of Visual Influence (TZVI). This is generated by computer software which places a 9 m high structure (an approximation to the height of the tallest proposed property) in the middle of the application site and one at each corner and then calculates the TZVI based on a 3D topographical terrain map. The TZVI is based on topography alone and does not take into account trees, hedgerows and buildings which will provide additional screening.

3.2 The TZVI is plotted on Figure 3

Data Collection and Guidance 3.3 This assessment has followed guidance set out in the ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’, Third Edition (Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment, 2013).  DECC National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure (EN-3)  Natural England National Character Areas  National Planning Policy Framework  Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Landscape Institute Advice Note 01/11

3.4 Existing background Information on the study area has been sourced from:  Ordnance Survey – 1:50,000 and1:25,000 scale maps.  Magic Website (www.magic.gov.uk)  Google Earth and Street View  Bing maps (www.bing.com/maps)

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 Wiltshire Council website  GIS designation data sets from Natural England and English Heritage

Receptors 3.5 This study identifies the receptors within the landscape which may be affected by the proposed development. The types of receptors assessed are described below:

Landscape receptors 3.6 These are individual elements of the landscape fabric and the area’s landscape character that may be affected by the proposed development.

Landscape elements 3.7 Landscape elements include physical features such as trees and hedgerows, topography, water courses and structures. Impacts to these elements may arise where valued features are lost, gained or substantially modified as a result of the development. The loss or depletion of important landscape features can adversely affect the character of the landscape. Conversely, the addition of significant beneficial features can constitute an improvement in landscape character.

Landscape character 3.8 Landscape character is defined as: "A distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements, be it natural (soil, landform) and/or human (for example settlement and development) in the landscape that makes one landscape different from another, rather than better or worse." (Natural England) 3.9 Impacts on the landscape may arise where the landscape character of the area is modified by the development. It is important to consider the application site and the proposed development in its landscape context.

Visual receptors 3.10 Visual receptors are those locations from which it is possible to obtain views of the application site. These views may be partial or full, glimpsed or direct. Impacts on the visual amenity of a particular location may arise where features intrude into or obstruct views, or where there is some other qualitative change to the view.

3.11 Views from such receptors are illustrated by photographs taken from key viewpoints (Figure 8 comprising nine sheets). These have been located on a plan (Figure 7). Receptors may be private viewpoints, such as views from domestic residences, or public viewpoints like highways, footpaths or other places with public access.

Analysis of landscape and visual receptors 3.12 Each receptor is assessed first in terms of its value and importance as a receptor. This value is then combined with an assessment of each receptor’s vulnerability to the changes proposed. This process gives the assessor a rational basis on which to assign the receptor a level of sensitivity to changes in the landscape or visual environment

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3.13 The sensitivity level is then combined with the predicted magnitude of change to the receptor arising from the development. The nature of the effect, its duration and reversibility are all considered and used to determine the significance of the effect on each receptor resulting from the proposed development.

3.14 The methodology for the analysis of the receptors is set out in Appendix A. The methodology determines the degree of significance of the impact, the definitions for which are set out in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Significance Criteria

Significance Definition Major adverse The proposed development will cause substantial degradation of the landscape character/landscape features/existing views. These adverse effects are key factors in the decision-making process. These effects are generally, but not exclusively, associated with sites or features of international, national or regional importance that are likely to suffer a most damaging impact and loss of resource integrity. However, a major change in a site or feature of local importance may also enter this category. Moderate The proposed development will cause noticeable degradation of the landscape adverse character/elements/existing views. These adverse effects may be important, but are not likely to be key decision-making factors. The cumulative effects of such factors may influence decision-making if they lead to an increase in the overall adverse effect on a particular resource or receptor. Minor adverse The proposed development will cause small degradation of the landscape character elements/existing views. These adverse effects may be raised as local factors. They are unlikely to be critical in the decision-making process, but are important in enhancing the subsequent design of the project. Negligible The proposed development will cause barely perceptible degradation of the adverse landscape character/elements/ existing views. Neutral Beneficial effects balance out adverse effects such that there is no overall beneficial or adverse effect No significance No effects or those that are beneath levels of perception, within normal bounds of variation or within the margin of forecasting error. Negligible The proposed development will cause barely perceptible improvement to the beneficial landscape character/elements/existing views. Minor The proposed development will cause a small improvement to the landscape beneficial character/elements/ existing views. Moderate The proposed development will cause noticeable improvement to the landscape beneficial character/elements/ existing views. Major The proposed development will cause substantial improvement in landscape beneficial character/elements/existing views. In making a decision about the proposal this advantageous effect may be considered to compensate to some degree for other, non-landscape, adverse effects.

Limitations to survey methods 3.15 The landscape character and views have been assessed from public vantage points. Although there is no right in planning law to a view from a private property, visual impact assessment protocol normally requires such views to be considered. In this case, however, it was impractical to seek access to private property. Potentially significant private viewpoints have, nonetheless, been established from a relevant similar public viewpoint for which access was possible. All assessment work has been undertaken at ground level and on foot.

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3.16 The photographic survey work was undertaken on the 17 July 2013 when trees and other vegetation were in full leaf, hence providing the most effective screening. An allowance has been made in the assessment for winter views, when vegetative screening will be least effective.

Photography and imaging 3.17 The photographic surveys were carried out by qualified Landscape Architects who are well versed with the methods and best practice required to produce verifiable photographs to be used in LVIA and visual representations.

3.18 Photographs illustrating views from each viewpoint were taken using a Nikon D3200 digital camera fitted with a Nikon 18 -55 mm zoom lens set to a focal length of 45-55 mm. The best focal length to use to represent the view available to the human eye varies between different makes and model of digital camera. The method we used to establish the correct focal length setting for the camera and lens used is to repeatedly compare the view through the optical viewfinder with that seen by a single naked eye and adjust the focal length to accurately match the views.

3.19 Individual frames have been stitched together with ‘Photostitch’ software. These panoramic views give a better understanding of the receptor’s visual context.

4.0 LANDSCAPE BASELINE

Topography and water courses 4.1 The application site comprises a flat field, typically at 107 m Ordnance Datum (AOD), surrounded on all sides by watercourses, which on the north, east and western boundaries feed into the River Wylye which forms the southern boundary of the application site. The site was in agricultural use up to the early 1960s. Planning permission was granted for temporary tipping of the excavated soil in March 1963. This was carried out and the tipping has permanently increased the ground level across the site by approximately 2 metres. Since that time the land has been overgrown and unused.

4.2 Land to the east of the application site remains level, and to the west rises only very gently towards Warminster. To the south, beyond the River Wylye, the land steadily rises to approximately 200m AOD at a distance of 3.5 km. To the north the ground rises more steeply to around 200m AOD on the edge of Salisbury Plain. Topography is illustrated on Figure 2.

4.3 The Boreham Road (B3134), passes the site at grade but the land to the north, a playing field, rises to around 112 m. This slightly elevated open area affords the clearest views of the application site.

Land Use

4.1 The application site is currently unmanaged grassland and the aerial photograph in Figure 5 illustrates land use and the type of vegetation cover.

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Vegetation

4.2 The boundary vegetation lies outside of the application site and is well established comprising a significant number of mature trees including Alder, Willow, Ash, Hazel, Sycamore, Horse Chestnut, Field Maple and some young Elm. Land to the north 4.1 The northern boundary of the site is defined by a ditch and established, tall hedge with some gaps which also contains a significant number of trees. Significant screening of the application site is afforded by this vegetation when the trees are in leaf. An existing access to the site is located in the north-west corner providing a connection to Boreham Road which runs generally east-west. Lime trees are located along part of the road. Beyond the road, set back 20-30m from the road edge, a steep bank forms the edge of a large area of open playing field. The playing fields lie at around 3m above the level of the application site. Further north is the mainly residential area of Woodcock on the north-eastern fringes of Warminster. There are likely to be views of the application site from the upper windows of the houses on the far edge of the playing fields. Beyond the housing are large areas of army barracks which give way to the foothills of Salisbury Plain (large parts of which are designated as Ministry of Defence Danger Areas, and are therefore not accessible to the public). Woodcock Road runs due north from the junction with Boreham Road at the north- eastern corner of the site. A limited number of properties on Woodcock Road, mainly bungalows, have views towards the application site.

Land to the east 4.2 The eastern boundary of the application site is also defined by a ditch, and a mill leat associated with the nearby Boreham Mill retains a business use as offices. A significant number of well-established trees and hedgerows provide some screening. At the junction on Boreham Road is a terrace of cottages, and these afford views towards the application site. From this road junction Bishopstrow Road heads south. Boreham Mill, a four storey building, and an adjacent cottage, Mill House are located between the application site and the road. Views of the application site will be possible from both these properties. On the east side of the road there are a number of industrial units. Further east there are a number of scattered properties, especially alongside Boreham Road, but these are all set within a heavily treed landscape, and as such are hardly visible from the roads and not at all from the application site. Further east the landscape becomes rural.

Land to the south 4.3 The southern boundary is defined by the River Wylye, approximately 6 m wide, and associated riparian vegetation which includes many mature trees which effectively block views from further south. Beyond the site boundary the landscape becomes heavily treed, and beyond the A36 trunk road (at around 1 km) are the large woods of Eastleigh and Southleigh.

Land to the west 4.3 The western boundary of the site comprises a ditch and established trees and hedges. Beyond the site boundary are a number of small paddocks. Along Boreham Road, towards Warminster, north west of the site, is a linear development of mainly terraced houses, although there is very limited visibility from these properties due to the screening properties of the trees and other vegetation

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Landscape features 4.4 Internally, the application site is devoid of landscape features except a small number of trees which have become detached from the boundary tree belts, and a power line crossing the south west corner of the site. Trees under the power line are occasionally trimmed to avoid interference with the lines.

4.5 The most notable landscape features within the immediate area are the mature boundary trees and the River Wylye running along the southern boundary.

Landscape character National 4.6 Referencing Natural England National Character Areas NCA 132: Salisbury Plain and West Wiltshire Downs, in the report the key relevant characteristics of the area are described as follows:

Key Characteristics  Woodland confined mainly to valleys and steep slopes.  River valleys with common settlements and narrow floodplains, dominated by former floated flood meadows and meandering rivers.  Military structures, airfields, tracks and signs.  Outstanding prehistoric ritual landscape with widespread earthworks and monuments prominent in an open landscape…

Local 4.7 Referencing the West Wiltshire District Council Landscape Character Assessment (March 2007), the application site lies within J1: Wylye Chalk River Valley. Key relevant characteristics of this area are described as follows:

 Enclosed valley with an intimate scale contrasting with the surrounding open upland landscape.  Hedgerows and hedgerow trees add to the lush and enclosed feel of the valley  Clear fast flowing chalk river and streams as a key habitat  Valley contains a concentration of settlement in contrast to the adjacent unsettled downs  Many long established villages, sited along the spring line and built of a rich variety of vernacular materials

Site 4.8 The character of the site is that of a typical unmanaged field physically very well enclosed by significant numbers of well-established trees and hedgerows. In some directions, notably to the north and north east, there are glimpsed views through the boundary vegetation of a limited number of nearby properties. The scale and distribution of these properties is consistent with an urban fringe location. The site character reflects the key characteristics listed above, from the national and district character assessments.

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4.9 The character of the immediately surrounding landscape is dominated by the road network, including a well-used Boreham Road and minor roads meeting at a roundabout junction with it to the north-east of the site. In particular, the roundabout and associated signage, together with the street lighting provides an suburban character, strengthened further by the various different styles of architecture in the locality.

Landscape value, vulnerability and sensitivity to development 4.10 The character and quality of the landscape immediately adjacent to and including the application site is reasonably attractive with a mix of attractive features and very few intrusive elements (industrial units on Bishopstrow Road, roadside overhead cables being examples of the latter). As a consequence the landscape quality/sensitivity is considered to be high/local as assessed in accordance with criteria in Table A.1 (Appendix A refers). It is considered that the application site can absorb change due to the very limited internal features, very strong tree and hedgerow structure surrounding the site and in the area, and limited vantage points to view the site from the surrounding landscape, especially from those within the sensitive AONB to the south.

4.11 The Boreham Road passes through the town Warminster which lies 1.7 km to the west of the application site. From the centre of the town the road is flanked by shops, businesses followed by terraced, semi-detached and detached houses in a typical urban transition. Approximately 600 m west of the application site the road corridor becomes less urban as it is occasionally bordered by more open green areas such as a cemetery, school grounds and fields. This character extends past the application site and the mix of housing areas and more open areas continues for approximately 900 m to the east before reaching a fully open and rural landscape. Thus the site currently contributes to the green setting for a short section of the Boreham Road within this zone of transition between townscape and countryside and this green setting has local value.

4.12 The Bishopstrow Road leads to the village of Bishopstrow, the closest urban edge of which lies approximately 400 m south-east of the mini roundabout adjacent to the application site. The length of site bordering Bishopstrow Road is only 56 m and so it does not form a significant part of this gap. Travelling towards Bishopstrow the next 70 m of road runs on an island formed by two channels within the river. The island is largely developed, comprising Boreham Mill and a depot for R and R coaches which has planning consent for 9 dwellings and 3 car barns. The main green separation between Bishopstrow and the development on the island occurs south of the island and comprises some 275 m. Thus the application site makes only a small contribution to this separation.

5.0 VISUAL BASELINE

5.1 A set of representative public viewpoints have been selected using desk study, the TZVI and field work. These are listed in Table 2 in Section 7. This table describes the existing view and then the changes arising from the proposed development. For more detail on the assessment methodology please refer to Paragraphs 3.1 to 3.19 above.

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5.2 The photographs taken from each public viewpoint are presented in Figure 8. It has not been possible to take photographs from individual private properties. Where possible representative photographs have been taken from the nearest publicly accessible viewpoints and so the visual impacts from these receptors are estimated.

5.3 Overall, the sensitivity of the visual baseline across all viewpoints is assessed as medium.

6.0 THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

Construction and Layout 6.1 This is an outline application for 35 residential units of between 2- 5 bedrooms, of which 29 will be two storey and 6 will be three storey. A significant amount of design work has been undertaken to illustrate the likely form of the development and this has been used to inform this landscape and visual assessment. HPH Commercial Property and Hab Housing are working together as developers to produce a design and delivery mechanism which is very different from that of the typical house builder. They are keen to offer residents the opportunity for early engagement in the design and construction phases, recognising the fact that new housing does not necessarily cater for the wide range of current desires, needs and lifestyles, and view an element of custom-build as the key to offering a wide range of choice, a strong sense of ownership and to offering high-quality houses at a more affordable price.

6.2 They are also particularly interested in residential developments that blur the boundary between urban and rural lifestyles; that simultaneously offer the cultural, social and employment opportunities of living in a town or city and opportunities for healthy outdoor living and a strong connection with the seasons and the natural world. This site, which adjoins the south-eastern edge of Warminster, offers a prime opportunity to realise these ambitions.

6.3 They view this approach as diametrically opposed to traditional models of ‘top-down’ suburban development in that it:  offers the customer involvement and choice  engenders a strong sense of belonging and ownership  provides a range of shared, public and semi-public spaces  prioritises coherent place-making  maximizes the benefits of the setting, whether natural or man-made  protects and enhances the biodiversity of the site  respects resource efficiency, sustainability and energy efficiency  creates a strong sense of place with a distinctive identity of its own  respects pedestrians and cyclists  optimizes opportunities for outdoor living and play

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6.4 For this scheme Hab and HPH envisage a continuum from self-build plots, subject to a pre-agreed design code, through to finished houses. Hab has developed a modular construction system that allows for maximum flexibility in terms of internal layout. With customer input Hab will design the house types to be suitable both for the conventional arrangement of living space at ground floor level and bedrooms above, and for ‘upside down’ living with the main living space on the first floor with views over the water.

6.5 Thus the assessment of the likely landscape and visual effects is based on the indicative masterplan and an assumption that the built form will be varied but at the same time very sensitive to the surrounding environment.

6.6 In addition the development will include the following elements:  An ecological buffer zone of 0.53 ha to be maintained by a private managementcompany around the river Wylye and mature trees, as agreed with the Council’s ecologist.  A new access from Boreham Road to a design agreed with the Highway Authority.  Foul and surface water drainage to existing mains services.  The relocation and restoration of the listed ‘milepost’ on Boreham Road.

6.7 The proposed layout is illustrated in Figure 9, and Figure 10.

7.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

7.1 The landscape impact assessment has been carried out using the criteria set out in Appendix A. The following paragraphs include assessment of landscape impacts both during construction and operation of the proposed development.

Landscape and Visual Impact during Construction 7.2 The construction phase of the proposed development typically has a greater impact than a completed scheme due to the impact of the following:

7.3 Site huts, parking, working areas, temporary access points and traffic management. Earthworks and material stockpiles construction activities taking place throughout the site ahead of any mitigation proposals such as landscaping construction activity including movement of construction vehicles including deliveries use of cranes unfinished structures are usually visually more intrusive than completed buildings.

7.4 Night time working is likely to be unnecessary and therefore there will be no requirement for construction lighting.

7.5 The construction phase is temporary, and opportunities for mitigating the impacts of construction are limited. The enclosed and level nature of the site will screen most ground level activities from the surrounding area.

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7.6 As such the magnitude of landscape and visual impacts during construction is assessed as low. Combined with a medium sensitivity, the resulting impact as assessed as minor, adverse but temporary in nature. As the development is built out, the impacts will gradually reach those discussed below for the operational phase.

Landscape and Visual Impacts during Operation

Effect on topography and watercourses 7.7 The ground floor levels of the properties will be typically 600mm higher than existing ground levels to ensure that they are not subject to flooding. The roads will be typically 250mm higher than existing levels. Thus there will be some minor infilling, grading and marrying of levels to ensure gently sloping access to properties. Therefore the impact magnitude is assessed as low. The new entrance to the site will require a new crossing of the ditch on the northern boundary. This will result in an impact magnitude assessed as low. Overall the significance on topography and watercourses is considered to be minor and of adverse significance.

Effect on land use 7.8 The proposed development will result in a magnitude of change to land use assessed as very high. However, the magnitude of change to the surrounding landscape is assessed as negligible/no change due to the enclosed nature of the application site. The land between the planning application boundary and the watercourses will be an ecological buffer of 0.53 hectares.

7.9 The resulting significance is therefore assessed as moderate adverse.

Effect on landscape features 7.10 A small number of trees will be removed, as recommended by the arboricultural assessment. These are all low value C1 category trees comprising 2 individual goat willow and a group of goat willow and alder on the river bank although the arboriculturalist’s recommendation is to remove the alder in any event, due to their poor condition.

7.11 Two lime trees at the entrance within the public highway will also be removed to ensure adequate sightlines but these trees have previously been inspected by the authority and because of their condition and proximity to the road (they are growing in the pavement) and there is no objection to their removal. All other existing hedgerows and boundary vegetation will be retained and managed to maintain their functional, aesthetic and wildlife value.

7.12 The proposed development will include a number of new trees throughout the site, and to fill gaps in the existing boundary vegetation. The existing hedge adjacent to Boreham Road will be retained and augmented with new planting to increase its screening function. A new native hedgerow will be planted on the far side of the ditch which parallels Boreham Road to further screen the new housing from the road.

7.13 As well as the wildlife corridors which will be retained around the perimeter of the site, a new corridor comprising a thick hedge with trees will cross the site.

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7.14 The magnitude of change to landscape features is assessed as low, and as an improvement. Therefore the significance on landscape features is assessed as beneficial and of minor significance.

Effect on landscape character 7.15 The proposed housing development will result in a loss of rural character to the field in which it is located, converting it to one of a residential layout. The design seeks to retain the green edge to Boreham Road and Bishopstrow Road by retaining the tree and hedge cover and the watercourse. An access strip will be provided along the watercourse for maintenance and beyond this a new native hedgerow will be established. The rear gardens of the houses will back onto this hedgerow. Thus a substantial green buffer 20 m in width will be provided between the Boreham Road and the northern most façade of the houses.

7.16 The existing boundary vegetation contributes more to the character of the local area than the site itself, and the vegetation will be retained (except where noted above) particularly on the roadside. The character of the land to the north, east and north- west of the site is a mix of urban development, open space and rural fringe and so the proposed development will fit in with that landscape character. Land to the south is rural but the vegetation cover along the river will reduce the visual influence of the development to this area. Thus overall the magnitude of change to landscape character is assessed as medium/low. This results in an effect on the character of the surrounding landscape of adverse but minor significance. The land to the south of the site is more

Effect on the setting of Listed Buildings and Scheduled Monuments 7.17 The effect to the setting of the historical structures adjacent to the site is below.

7.18 A milestone near the existing site entrance on Boreham Road, Grade II. The position of the milestone conflicts with the geometry of the proposed junction. This will be removed, restored and repositioned within a few metres of its existing location in an equally prominent location so that it is clearly visible and legible to road users. The adverse effect of the new junction and the necessary relocation is offset by the restoration and so the overall effect of the setting of the milestone is considered to be adverse but minor.

7.19 Of the two historic stone arched bridges over the River Wylye on Bishopstrow Road, Grade II, one is adjacent to the application site and one lies 90 m on the other-side of the island. The parapets of the bridges are the only clearly visible features to travellers crossing the bridges and the application site does not enable wider views of the bridges along the river. The bridges link to the island on which there are late 20th Century buildings and a bus depot (with a) planning consent for housing and so there is the precedent for new development near the bridges. The river corridor which forms the immediate setting of the bridges and this will remain undeveloped within an ecological corridor. The proposed development will have only a minor adverse effect on the setting of the bridge adjacent to the site,

7.20 Chatley House (Grade II), 263 m further west along Boreham Road. This property lies within a rank of properties along Boreham Road and faces onto the road with no views of the application site. There will be no effect to the setting or visual amenity from this property.

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7.21 146 and 147 Woodcock Road (Grade II listed properties), 126 m to the north along Woodcock Road. These properties face east onto Woodcock Road and their immediate setting comprises the playing fields, Woodcock Road and the late 20th Century housing on the opposite side of the road. One property affords views down Woodcock Road towards the application site from windows in their gable end. The boundary vegetation of the application site makes a slight contribution to the setting of the cottages but it will be retained and the proposed development will be set back from Boreham Road with a 20m green buffer to the façade of the first house. Thus the proposed development will have only a minor adverse effect on the setting of the bridge adjacent to the site.

7.22 Therefore the significance of the effects on the setting is assessed as adverse but of minor significance.

Effect on the setting of the Conservation Area 7.23 The mill and consented housing development on the bus depot will form the immediate setting to the Conservation Area, acting as a buffer between the Conservation Area and this application. The boundary vegetation of the existing application site blocks views towards the Conservation Area from Boreham Road and so infilling with housing will not result in the loss of any open views. Thus the effect on the setting of the Conservation Area is considered to be negligible.

Effect on the visual amenity of adjacent residents 7.24 Boreham Mill has commercial uses and so is not considered to be a particularly sensitive receptor. Views of the proposed development will be filtered by the intervening tree cover along the river. The effect on the visual amenity of this property is considered to be adverse of minor significance.

7.25 There is a residential property to the north of Boreham Mill which affords a rural view over the river towards the site. Views of the proposed development will be filtered by the existing trees growing along the river but the buildings will be clearly visible in winter and partially visible in summer. It is proposed to increase the level of screening along the river opposite this property to minimise any inter-visibility and overlooking. This will be achieved by planting native shrubs such as hazel but with framed views of the river. A proposed platform to view the weir is located away from this property and any views towards this property will be blocked by screening vegetation or panels. With mitigation the effect on the visual amenity of this property is considered to be adverse of moderate significance in winter, declining to moderate/minor significance in summer.

7.26 The terrace of houses on the junction of Boreham Road and Bishopstrow Road will afford views of the proposed housing which will be seen through the existing trees and the proposed hedge planting to be planted behind these trees. A group of three storey buildings will lie behind this vegetation and so the upper floor and roof will be visible above the tree line. The design intent is to create a subtle gateway feature at this road junction and the buildings will be designed to respect the local vernacular. With mitigation the effect on the visual amenity of this property is considered to be adverse of moderate significance in winter, declining to minor significance in summer.

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7.27 Views of the proposed development from the consented residential development at the bus depot will be largely blocked by Boreham Mill, the residential property to the north and tree cover but there may be some oblique views, across the road from upper windows. With mitigation the effect on the visual amenity of this property is considered to be adverse of minor significance in winter, declining to negligible in summer.

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Table 2: Assessment of visual effect for public views

MAGNITUDE PREDICTED CHANGES TO EFFECT ONCE VIEW DESCRIPTION OF THE OF CHANGE LOCATION THE VIEW AS A RESULT SENSITIVITY MITIGATION MITIGATION IS NO. EXISTING VIEW (with OF THE DEVELOPMENT EFFECTIVE mitigation) 1 View looking east along A semi-rural view dominated The new road entrance into Medium/low Medium in The existing roadside The planting will Boreham Road adjacent by the significant number of the application site will be summer hedgerow will be minimise the to the site. trees, the road, and visible and will result in the reinforced with new visibility of the associated road-signs and loss of the two trees High in winter planting and the housing in summer lighting. The application site currently growing in the watercourse beyond and should provide is partially visible behind the pavement and a short enhanced as an a sufficient mass of roadside trees and boundary section of hedge. The ecological corridor. twigs in winter to trees and hedgerow. In winter remaining vegetation will Access to it will be screen the majority the application site will be be retained and façade of provided by a 2 m wide of the houses in partially more visible through the first house will be set band of meadow grass winter. the vegetation. back 20m from the back of managed to maximise the footway. When the diversity. A new native Minor adverse in vegetation is in leaf the hedge will be planted to summer. housing will be partially the south of this to form Moderate adverse visible but will be more the boundary to the first in winter. prominent in winter. line of gardens. The milestone will be restored and relocated to a new location on the edge of the new junction in an equally prominent location.

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road-signs and lighting. The currently growing in the watercourse beyond application site is visible pavement and a short enhanced as an behind the roadside and section of hedge. The ecological corridor. boundary trees and remaining vegetation will Access to it will be hedgerow. View 2 is greater be retained and façade of provided by a 2 m wide than from View 1 due to the the first house will be set band of meadow grass increased elevation of the back 20 m from the back of managed to maximise viewpoint. In winter the the footway. When the diversity. A new native application site will be vegetation is in leaf the roof hedge will be planted to partially more visible through tops of the houses will be the south of this to form the vegetation. visible and when out of leaf the boundary to the first the facades of the houses line of gardens. will be visible. The milestone will be restored and relocated to a new location on the edge of the new junction in an equally prominent location.

3 View looking south from The foreground of this view is When the vegetation is in High Medium Native hedge and tree Moderate adverse the far (northern) end of dominated by the playing leaf only the rooftops of the planting on site-side of in summer and the playing field at the fields. Extensive tree cover proposed development are (Due to numerous roadside ditch and winter boundary of residential occupies the remainder of the likely to be visible beyond residential planting generally properties in this location. view. Rooftops of properties the retained trees. Visibility properties from within the site to break 250 m from application alongside Boreham Road are will only be possible from which views are up the built form. site. visible. upper windows of the likely from upper windows only.) properties in this location.

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MAGNITUDE PREDICTED CHANGES TO EFFECT ONCE VIEW DESCRIPTION OF THE OF CHANGE LOCATION THE VIEW AS A RESULT SENSITIVITY MITIGATION MITIGATION IS NO. EXISTING VIEW (with OF THE DEVELOPMENT EFFECTIVE mitigation) 4 View looking south from A view typical of urban fringe, Although all vegetation Medium Low Native hedge and tree Minor adverse Woodcock Road, 150 m dominated by the road and along the roadside will be planting on site-side of from the application site. associated road-signs and retained and additional roadside ditch and (Representative of views lighting. Views of the planting is proposed within planting generally from bungalows in this application site are possible the site, it will be possible within the site to break location.) through gaps in the existing to get glimpsed views of up the built form. vegetation. the development. From the bungalows the views will be oblique.

5 View looking south west This view is dominated by the Although all vegetation Medium Low Native hedge and tree Minor adverse from Boreham Road, road, and in particular the along the roadside will be planting on site-side of adjacent to the round-about junction. The retained and additional roadside ditch and application site and the roadside properties further planting is proposed within planting generally terrace of houses at the west of the site are visible the site, it will be possible within the site to break junction. and contribute to the urban to get glimpsed views of up the built form. fringe character of this view. the development. Only glimpsed views are possible into the site through gaps in the roadside vegetation. Views will be greater in the winter.

6 View looking north-west This view is typical of urban There will be no apparent Medium Negligible/No Native hedge and tree Negligible from near to Mill House fringe, showing a mix of change to the view due to Change planting generally on Bishopstrow Road, housing, roads and the proposed development. within the site to break 100 m from the associated signage. up the built form. application site.

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MAGNITUDE PREDICTED CHANGES TO EFFECT ONCE VIEW DESCRIPTION OF THE OF CHANGE LOCATION THE VIEW AS A RESULT SENSITIVITY MITIGATION MITIGATION IS NO. EXISTING VIEW (with OF THE DEVELOPMENT EFFECTIVE mitigation) 7 View looking south from An extensive panoramic open There will be no apparent Medium Negligible/No None relevant Negligible high ground on view looking south to the change to the view due to Change Battlesbury Hill, 1.5 km heavily wooded landscape of the proposed development. from the application site. the AONB. The large number of buildings associated with Battlesbury Barracks dominate the middle distance and are detracting elements in the view. The application site is hardly discernible in the view.

8 View looking south-west An extensive panoramic open There will be no apparent Medium Negligible/No None relevant Negligible from high ground on view looking south-west. The change to the view due to Change Middle Hill, 1.8 km from view includes the heavily the proposed development. the application site. wooded landscape of the AONB, the distinctive Cley Hill in the middle of the view, and the Battlesbury Barracks buildings. Warminster is just discernible, although the application site is hidden from view behind trees.

9 View looking north-west An extensive distant There will be no apparent Medium Negligible/No None relevant Negligible from high ground on panoramic open view looking change to the view due to Change Scratchbury Hill, 3.1 km north -west. The view the proposed development. from the application site. includes the heavily wooded landscape of the AONB, the distinctive Cley Hill in the middle of the view, and the Battlesbury Barracks buildings. Warminster is just discernible, although the application site is hidden from view behind trees.

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8.0 MITIGATION MEASURES

8.1 Mitigation measures have been described in the assessment tables and can be summarised thus: Primary Mitigation  The existing well established boundary vegetation will be retained within an ecological corridor of 0.53 hectares, apart from minor loss to accommodate the new road access.  The façade of the houses shown on the indicative layout are set 20 m back from the back of the highway footway. Secondary Mitigation  A proposed mixed native hedgerow with hedgerow trees will be planted along the northern and eastern boundaries of the site adjacent to the existing ditch. This will help to screen views into the site from properties at the junction and from Mill House  Native tree planting is proposed throughout the site to soften the buildings, especially where views into the site are possible.  Creation of an avenue entrance feature with the houses set back from the road.  Creation of public access down the west side of the development, which re- turns along a short section of the river and then back through the series of public spaces within the development.

8.2 Figure 9 is the indicative masterplan which illustrates the extensive tree and hedge planting proposed as mitigation together with the variety of design features, such as shared open space, paths and viewing areas.

9.0 SUMMARY OF LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT AND CONCLUSION

9.1 There are no viewpoints from which the proposed development will be clearly seen in its entirety. Only partial elements of the built form will be visible. There are also no views of the site from distant elevated viewpoints.

9.2 The terrace of residential properties on the north side of Boreham Road, east of the mini roundabout, will afford partial oblique views of the new houses, but views will be filtered by the existing boundary vegetation and the new tree and hedge planting. The façade of the nearest proposed building on the indicative plan is approximately 42 m from these properties.

9.3 A single dwelling north of Boreham Mill, Mill House, affords views over the site, filtered by the tree cover growing along the river. Tree and hedge planting along the river will frame views for the residents while reducing the inter-visibility with the existing property.

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9.4 The clearest view of the new development will be from the playing fields adjacent to Boreham Road where, due to the elevated ground level, views look down into the site.

9.5 The proposed development will not be particularly prominent within the surrounding area or to surrounding properties due to the existing and proposed enclosing tree and hedge cover and because the properties will be set back from Boreham Road behind an ecological corridor.

9.6 The part of the application site which fronts Bishopstrow Road makes only a very minor contribution to the green separation between Boreham and the village of Bishopstrow and since the boundary vegetation will remain the overall effect on the green separation will be negligible. The green frontage to Boreham Road will also be retained, preserving the character of this section of road.

9.7 Due to the significant tree cover surrounding the site, and the lack of elevated vantage points in the immediately surrounding landscape, the proposed development will be physically and visually well contained. Only a few properties immediately adjacent to the site will experience moderate adverse effects, although once mitigation planting has become fully established this will be reduced further. The effect on the character of the area will only be of minor adverse significance as there are many clusters of existing housing within the vicinity and so the introduction of housing on the application site is not introducing an uncharacteristic element to the landscape. Furthermore the existing roadside trees and vegetation are to be retained.

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HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

FIGURES

The Landmark Practice Figures Application site boundary o. AR100017235 N o. Crown Copyright - Licence © S tationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s

BOREHAM ROAD proposed housing DEVELOPMENT

FIGURE 1 Site Location S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B FIG's_REV CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA Warminster Boreham HPH - S:\PROJECTS\2561

0 10 20 50 100 Metres 9 Dec 13 Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Development Planning Site location

Contour lines

- 260 - 280m - 240 - 260m - 220 - 240m - 200 - 220m - 180 - 200m - 160 - 180m - 140 - 160m - 120 - 140m - 100 - 120m - 80 - 100m - 60 - 80m - 40 - 60m - 20 - 40m - 0 - 20m

o. AR100017235 N o. Crown Copyright - Licence © S tationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s - Sea level

BOREHAM ROAD proposed housing DEVELOPMENT

FIGURE 2 Topography S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B FIG's_REV CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA Warminster Boreham HPH - S:\PROJECTS\2561

0 10 20 50 100 Metres 9 Dec 13 Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Development Planning Scale: 1 : 50,000

Legend

! SITE Location

M 1:50,000 0 500 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 !

Site location

Theoretical Zone of Visual Influence (TZVI)

! o. AR100017235 N o. Crown Copyright - Licence © S tationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s

Legend

! SITE Location

M 1:50,000 0 500 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 BOREHAM ROAD proposed housing DEVELOPMENT

FIGURE 3 Theoretical Zone of Visual Influence (TZVI) Legend

! SITE Location S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B FIG's_REV CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA Warminster Boreham HPH - S:\PROJECTS\2561 M 1:50,000 0 500 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 Legend 9 Dec 13 ! Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Development Planning Scale: 1 : 50,000 SITE Location

M 1:50,000 0 500 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 1 Application site boundary 2

Listed buildings

Scheduled Monuments Battlesbury Camp Monuments: hillfort, settlement, cemetery, barrows, enclosure, and field systems AONB

National trails

1 Imber Range Perimeter path 2 Wessex Ridgeway

Middle Hill round barrow Local planning policies:

See figure 4.2 for details Middlehill settlement and associated cultivation earthworks. C3 Special landscape area on listed buildings

o. AR100017235 N o. Crown Copyright - Licence © S tationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s Bishopstrow Conservation Area King Barrow: a long barrow 100m north of Bishopstrow House Bowl barrow 85m north of Bishopstrow House C4 Landscape setting

Bowl barrow immediately east of Bishopstrow House H1 Town policy limits

A pair of bowl barrows 225m Motte and double ringwork south east of Boreham Mill east of Bishopstrow Farm 1 2 1

BOREHAM ROAD proposed housing DEVELOPMENT

FIGURE 4.1 Planning designations and landscape constraints and opportunities

2 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B FIG's_REV CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA Warminster Boreham HPH - S:\PROJECTS\2561 9 Dec 13

Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Development Planning 0 100 200 500 1000 Metres Number 95 and st johns coe primary school grade ii church of st john the evangelist b Application site boundary lychgate to dhurch of st john grade ii Listed buildings

Scheduled ancient monument

Local planning policies: 15, 17 grange ln grade ii C3 Special landscape area 147, 149 woodcock rd chatley grade ii grade ii pavilion east of grange farm house grade ii Bishopstrow Conservation Area

C4 Landscape setting

milestone near turning to H1 Town policy limits boreham grade ii

o. AR100017235 N o. Crown Copyright - Licence © S tationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s the cotes grade ii bridge over river stable building east of no wylye grade ii 207 grade ii

bridge over river wylye grade ii summer house in the grounds of bishopstrow house grade ii

A pair of bowl barrows 225m south east of Boreham Mill

the cottage grade ii BOREHAM ROAD shirely house grade ii proposed housing DEVELOPMENT

glebe cottage no 27 grade ii grade ii FIGURE 4.2 Planning designations and landscape constraints and opportunities church of st aldheim no 20, 21 grade ii grade ii*

Legend S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B FIG's_REV CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA Warminster Boreham HPH - S:\PROJECTS\2561 M 1:4,500 0 50 100 200 300 400 500

9 Dec 13 Legend Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Development Planning Scale: 1 : 4,500 M 1:4,500 0 50 100 200 300 400 500 Application site boundary

A Viewpoint locations (A - F)

o. AR100017235 N o. Crown Copyright - Licence © S tationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s D E F

B C

BOREHAM ROAD proposed housing DEVELOPMENT

FIGURE 5 Aerial photograph with locations for photographs taken from the site

Legend

S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B FIG's_REV CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA Warminster Boreham HPH - S:\PROJECTS\2561 M 1:4,500 0 50 100 200 300 400 500 9 Dec 13 Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Development Planning 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

Panorama continued above VIEWPOINT VIEWPOINT

A 1:Viewthe visualenclosure site showing southeastfromwithintheapplication looking A 2:Viewcharacter oftherivercorridor andwesternboundary site showingtheenclosing south westfromwithintheapplication looking Roof of Mill Cottage proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Photographs taken fromthesite FIGURE 6.1

Panorama continued below 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

Panorama continued above VIEWPOINT VIEWPOINT

B 2:Viewsite northeastfromwithintheapplication looking B 1:Viewsite northwest fromwithintheapplication looking Battlesbury Hill Roof of Boreham Mill Dwellings on Boreham Road proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Photographs taken fromthesite FIGURE 6.2

Panorama continued above VIEWPOINT VIEWPOINT

C 2:View site northfromwithintheapplication looking C 1:Viewsite north west fromwithintheapplication looking Housing at backof playing fields Dwellings on Boreham Road Dwellings on Boreham Road proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Photographs taken fromthesite FIGURE 6.3

Panorama continued above VIEWPOINT VIEWPOINT

D 2:Viewsite southwestfromwithintheapplication looking D 1:View site south from withintheapplication looking proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Photographs taken fromthesite FIGURE 6.4

Panorama continued above

VIEWPOINT VIEWPOINT

E 2:Viewsite northeastfromwithintheapplication looking E 1:View site northfrom withintheapplication looking proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Photographs taken fromthesite Dwellings on Boreham Road FIGURE 6.5 Boreham Roadbehind trees

VIEWPOINT

F: Viewthe visualenclosureofsite south showing looking Roof of Mill Cotttage Roof of Boreham Mill proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Photographs taken fromthesite FIGURE 6.6 7 Application site boundary

1 Viewpoint locations (1 - 9)

NOTE: See figure 5 for locations of photographs taken from the site

4 2 1 5 o. AR100017235 N o. Crown Copyright - Licence © S tationery Office. Reproduced with the permission of controller Her Majesty’s

BOREHAM ROAD proposed housing DEVELOPMENT

FIGURE 7 Viewpoint locations plan S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B FIG's_REV CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA Warminster Boreham HPH - S:\PROJECTS\2561

0 10 20 50 100 Metres 9 Dec 13 Environmental Planning • EIA • Landscape Architecture • Ecology • Development Planning Scale: NTS 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT Playing fields 1 1 Boreham Road 44286 ST 88969 Grid Reference: site. adjacent tothe Boreham Road east along View looking Receptor Viewpoint/ on theedgeofnewjunctioninanequallyprominent location The milestonewillberestoredandrelocatedtoanew location prominent inwinter. is inleafthehousingwillbepartiallyvisiblebut more set back20mfromtheoffootway. Whenthevegetation vegetation willberetainedandfaçadeofthefirsthouse willbe the pavementandashortsectionofhedge. The remaining and willresultinthelossoftwotreescurrentlygrowing in The newroadentranceintotheapplicationsitewillbe visible development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Site location Medium/low Sensitivity proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT High inwinter summer Medium in change Magnitude of BOREHAM ROAD first lineofgardens south ofthistoformtheboundary new nativehedgewillbeplantedtothe grass managedtomaximisediversity. A provided bya2mwidebandofmeadow ecological corridor. Access toitwillbe watercourse beyondenhancedasan reinforced withnewplantingandthe The existingroadsidehedgerowwillbe Mitigation Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.1 Moderate adverseinwinter. Minor adverseinsummer. the housesinwinter. winter toscreenthemajorityof a sufficientmassoftwigsin summer andshouldprovide the visibilityofhousingin The plantingwillminimise effective Effect oncemitigationis 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT 2 2 Bishopstrow Road ST 89054 4432 Grid Reference: fields of theplaying on theedge top ofthebank south fromthe View looking Receptor Viewpoint/ on theedgeofnewjunctioninanequallyprominent location The milestonewillberestoredandrelocatedtoanew location and whenoutofleafthefacadeshouseswillbe visible. vegetation isinleaftherooftopsofhouseswillbe visible be setback20mfromtheoffootway. Whenthe vegetation willberetainedandfaçadeofthefirsthouse will the pavementandashortsectionofhedge. The remaining and willresultinthelossoftwotreescurrentlygrowing in The newroadentranceintotheapplicationsitewillbe visible development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Boreham Mill Medium/ Sensitivity proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT High inwinter summer High in change Magnitude of BOREHAM ROAD Site location first lineofgardens south ofthistoformtheboundary new nativehedgewillbeplantedtothe grass managedtomaximisediversity. A provided bya2mwidebandofmeadow ecological corridor. Access toitwillbe watercourse beyondenhancedasan reinforced withnewplantingandthe The existingroadsidehedgerowwillbe Mitigation Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.2 Playing field and winter Moderate adverseinsummer effective Effect oncemitigationis Boreham Road 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT 3 3 Boreham Mill 44504 Grid Reference:ST 89025 250 mfromapplicationsite properties inthislocation. boundary ofresidential the playingfieldat the far(northern)endof View lookingsouthfrom Viewpoint/Receptor upper windowsofthepropertiesinthislocation. the retainedtrees.Visibility willonlybepossiblefrom proposed developmentarelikelytobevisiblebeyond When thevegetationisinleafonlyrooftopsof development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof The site liesdirectlybelow this line of trees (no view) windows only.) likely fromupper which viewsare properties from residential (Due tonumerous High Sensitivity proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Medium change Magnitude of built form. generally withinthesitetobreakup site-side ofroadsideditchandplanting Native hedgeandtreeplantingon Mitigation Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.3 Playing field summer andwinter Moderate adversein is effective Effect oncemitigation 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT 4 4 44362 Grid Reference:ST 89131 location.) from bungalowsinthis (Representative ofviews from theapplicationsite. Woodcock Road,150m View lookingsouthfrom Viewpoint/Receptor Woodcock Road Application site be oblique. the development.Frombungalowsviewswill the site,itwillbepossibletogetglimpsedviewsof retained andadditionalplantingisproposedwithin Although allvegetationalongtheroadsidewillbe development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Medium Sensitivity Boreham Road proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Low change Magnitude of built form. generally withinthesitetobreakup site-side ofroadsideditchandplanting Native hedgeandtreeplantingon Mitigation Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.4 Minor adverse is effective Effect oncemitigation 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning Bishopstrow

VIEWPOINT Road 5 5 44215 Grid Reference:ST 89247 houses atthejunction site andtheterraceof adjacent totheapplication from BorehamRoad, View lookingsouthwest Viewpoint/Receptor the development. the site,itwillbepossibletogetglimpsedviewsof retained andadditionalplantingisproposedwithin Although allvegetationalongtheroadsidewillbe development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Medium Sensitivity proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT Application site BOREHAM ROAD Low change Magnitude of built form. generally withinthesitetobreakup site-side ofroadsideditchandplanting Native hedgeandtreeplantingon Mitigation Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.5 Boreham Road Minor adverse is effective Effect oncemitigation Woodcock Road 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT

6 6 44173 Grid Reference:ST 89121 from theapplicationsite Bishopstrow Road,100m from neartoMillHouseon View lookingnorth-west Viewpoint/Receptor Site liesbehind this hedgerow (no view) the proposeddevelopment There willbenoapparentchangetotheviewdue development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Medium Sensitivity proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Change Negligible/No change Magnitude of Bishopstrow Road built form. generally withinthesitetobreakup site-side ofroadsideditchandplanting Native hedgeandtreeplantingon Mitigation Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.6 Playing field Negligible is effective Effect oncemitigation 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT 7 7 Visible extents of the application site 45649 Grid Reference:ST 89611 application site Hill, 1.5kmfromthe high groundonBattlesbury View lookingsouthfrom Viewpoint/Receptor the proposeddevelopment There willbenoapparentchangetotheviewdue development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Warminster Medium Sensitivity proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT Battlesbury Barracks BOREHAM ROAD Change Negligible/No change Magnitude of None relevant Mitigation Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.7 Negligible is effective Effect oncemitigation Cley Hill 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT 8 8 44845 Grid Reference:ST 90665 the applicationsite Middle Hill,1.8kmfrom from highgroundon View lookingsouth-west Viewpoint/Receptor Site liesbehind this line of trees (no view) the proposeddevelopment There willbenoapparentchangetotheviewdue development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Warminster Medium Sensitivity proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Change Negligible/No change Magnitude of Cley Hill None relevant Mitigation Battlesbury Barracks Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.8 Negligible is effective Effect oncemitigation 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning

VIEWPOINT 9 9 43306 Grid Reference:ST 92012 from theapplicationsite. Scratchbury Hill,3.1km from highgroundon View lookingnorth-west Viewpoint/Receptor the proposeddevelopment There willbenoapparentchangetotheviewdue development Predicted changestotheviewasaresultof Cley Hill Medium Sensitivity Approximate sitelocation proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT (no view) BOREHAM ROAD Change Negligible/No change Magnitude of None relevant Mitigation Warminster Viewpointphotographs FIGURE 8.9 Battlesbury Barracks Negligible is effective Effect oncemitigation 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning 15 9 8 12 10 13 3 14 2 1 4 A 5 5 A' 7 10 14 11 6 proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT 14 BOREHAM ROAD Development Masterplan Development FIGURE 9 KEY 15 14 13 12 11 10 2 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 1 INDICa Scale: Seescalebar Trees toberemoved Protected ecology zone Protected ecology cyclists aswellmotorcars Prioritise pedestriansand Riverside studio Screen plantingtoBorehamRd Wildlife Corridor Natural trimtrail riverbank and protectiontothe Boardwalk seating platform with River viewing framed views Screen plantingaffording spaces Shared publicandsemi village pump drainage and Sustainable Sculpture Entrance avenue Shared ecologyzone Proposed treeplanting Existing trees Ditch crossing BoREham Wa TIVE RmINSTER maSTERPLaN mEaD, 9 Dec 13 S:\PROJECTS\2561 - HPH Boreham Warminster CMcD\GRAPHICS\2561_LVIA FIG's_REV B Environmental Planning •EIA •Landscape Architecture •Ecology •Development Planning proosed ho using DEVELOPMENT BOREHAM ROAD Development Section Development FIGURE 10 HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

APPENDIX A

Assessment Methodology

The Landmark Practice Appendix A

HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

APPENDIX A: Assessment Methodology

Assessing the Nature of Landscape Receptors (Sensitivity to Change)

A1.1 Assessment of landscape sensitivity is concerned with the relative value that is attached to different landscapes Sensitivity refers to the degree to which a particular landscape feature or character area is able to accommodate change without significant effects on its components or overall character. and susceptibility

A1.2 In a policy context the usual basis for recognising certain highly valued landscapes is via application of local or national landscape designations. A landscape can nonetheless be valued by different communities for many different reasons without any formal designation.

A1.3 The assessment of landscape quality (condition) is based on judgements about the physical state of the landscape and about its intactness from visual, functional and ecological perspectives. It also reflects the state of repair of individual features and elements that make up the character in any one place.

A1.4 It usually follows that higher quality landscapes have higher sensitivity to change, but this must also be assessed in conjunction with landscape value to give an overall assessment of sensitivity.

A1.5 This study assigns a degree of sensitivity to landscape features and to each landscape character area identified (Table A.1 refers).

The Landmark Practice Appendix A HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

Table A.1: Landscape Quality/Sensitivity

LANDSCAPE TABLE A5 DEFINITION SENSITIVITY DEFINITION Very high/ Landscape of exceptional scenic quality, harmonious International and unified with pleasing landscape patterns and combinations of landscape features. Demonstrates strong landscape structure, characteristics, patterns, balanced combination of landform and land cover, distinct features, and land under appropriate Very High management. Has no or very few detracting features and is typically considered very attractive by most people. These landscapes are highly valued and often designated of international importance such as World Heritage sites. They are extremely susceptible to small changes. High/ National Landscape of exceptional scenic quality, harmonious and unified with pleasing landscape patterns and combinations of landscape features. Landscape containing many attractive features and no visually intrusive or incongruous features. Vegetation in good condition and where appropriate, well maintained. Typically considered very attractive by most people. High Designated landscapes of international or national importance Qualities typically found within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and National Parks. Medium/ An attractive landscape but with some minor Regional blemishes, such as unattractive buildings. Vegetation generally in good condition and well maintained. Designated landscapes of regional, county or district importance. A quality typically exhibited by Areas of Great landscape Value.

High/Local A reasonably attractive landscape with a mix of Medium attractive features but only a few intrusive elements. Vegetation condition varies in quality. Typical of many landscapes throughout Britain Medium/ Local A pleasant but ordinary landscape with numerous blemishes, such as industrial areas and pylons. Low Vegetation structure and management poor. Typically an urban fringe landscape.

Low/Local A degraded or disturbed landscape with a severely damaged landscape structure, for example many hedges removed. Many unattractive and intrusive Negligible features. Typical of urban fringe landscapes in need of restoration

The Landmark Practice Appendix A HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

Assessing the magnitude of change to landscape features

A1.6 The magnitude of the change to existing landscape character and features is assessed in accordance with the criteria set out in Table A.2. These criteria can be applied to both positive and negative impacts.

Table A.2: Magnitude of change to the Landscape

LANDSCAPE IMPACT DEFINITION MAGNITUDE Very high The proposed development will either cause a large improvement or complete loss of or major alteration to key elements/features/characteristics. Or introduction of elements considered entirely characteristic or totally uncharacteristic. High The proposed development will cause either a significant improvement (dominant) or deterioration of one or more key elements/features/characteristics or introduction of elements that may be considered to be substantially uncharacteristic or characteristic. Medium The proposed development will cause a noticeable improvement or (prominent) deterioration of/minor loss to one or more key elements/features/ characteristics or the introduction of elements that are uncharacteristic or characteristic. Low (present) The proposed development will cause a barely perceptible improvement or deterioration to one or more key elements/features/characteristics, or introduction of elements that are characteristic or uncharacteristic. Negligible/No The proposals will cause no actual change or no discernible change. Change

The Landmark Practice Appendix A HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

Analysis of Visual Receptors

Assessing the Sensitivity of Visual Receptors to Change

A1.7 The sensitivity of visual receptors depends on its location and context, the expectations and occupation or activity of the viewer and on the importance of the view (the latter is derived from the receptors popularity of frequency of use)

A1.8 The purpose of describing the baseline visual environment is to identify the most important sensitive visual receptors around the site which have views to or across the proposed development. A visual receptor is essentially any viewer who would be likely to be affected as a result of the proposed development. The sensitivity of any receptor is categorised in Table A.3 below.

Table A.3: Visual Receptor Sensitivity

VISUAL RECEPTOR INDICATIVE DEFINITION SENSITIVITY Views from within internationally and nationally designated high quality landscapes (National Parks, AONB), scheduled monuments or Grade 1 listed buildings and their setting, where views from, or near to public rights of way/public roads (where the attractive nature of the Very high environment is a significant factor in the enjoyment of the visit typically National Trails and Long Distant Footpaths.). Views from large numbers of residential properties in the same location (typically 100+) Views from within high or medium high quality regionally designated landscapes (Areas of Great Landscape Value), parks or gardens listed in the National Gardens Register, Grade II* and II listed buildings and their settings. High Views from well used public rights of way (where the attractive nature of the countryside is a significant factor in the enjoyment of the walk). Views from a numerous residential properties within a similar location (typically between 10-100) Views from within medium quality non-designated but locally important landscapes, outdoor sports or recreation (where the landscape is not a factor in the enjoyment of the sport). Views from public rights of way used locally and passing through attractive rural landscapes. Medium Views from or near to residential properties, from passenger trains, or people within cars on local roads. Views from single or small groups of residential properties (less than ten) Views from within medium-low non-designated but locally important landscapes. Views from less well used public rights of way which pass Low through less attractive landscapes or townscapes and are not used for enjoyment of the scenery. Views from or near to motorways, major roads, or business premises. Views from within unattractive non-designated landscapes of local Negligible importance.

The Landmark Practice Appendix A HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

Assessing the Magnitude of Visual Change

A1.9 The magnitude of change to the current (baseline) visual environment depends on a combination of factors, such as the size of change, the nature of change and the ability of the viewer to appreciate the change. Table A.4 provides definitions for the magnitude of both positive and negative impacts.

Table A.4: Magnitude of Visual Change

VISUAL IMPACT DEFINITION MAGNITUDE Very high The proposed development will either cause complete loss of the view or a very large improvement in the view. High The proposed development will either be visually dominant and (dominant) intrusive and will disrupt views or will result in a significant improvement or deterioration of the view. Medium The proposed development will be visually prominent within the view (prominent) and will result in either a noticeable improvement or deterioration of the view. Low (present) The proposed development will either cause barely adverse or barely positive change within the view. Negligible/No The proposed development will cause no actual change or no Change discernible change within the view.

The Landmark Practice Appendix A HPH Commercial Property Proposed housing development at Boreham Road, Warminster, ‘Boreham Mead’ Landscape and Visual Assessment

Assessment of Significance

A1.10 The significance of impacts is assessed using the appropriate national and international quality standards and professional judgement. For clarity and transparency, criteria have been used to attribute levels of significance. Broadly, the significance is a function of the magnitude of the impact and the number and sensitivity of receptors. The reversibility and duration of the effect are also important considerations.

A1.11 For each assessment factor the sensitivity of the effect is combined with magnitude to give an overall score for the significance of the impact as set out in Table A.5

Table A.5: Table used to determine the significance of either landscape or visual effects

SENSITIVITY OF RECEPTOR FEATURES

Very High High Medium Low Negligible

Major/ Very High Major Major Moderate Minor Moderate

Major/ Moderate/ High Major Moderate Minor Moderate Minor

Major/ Minor/ Medium Moderate Moderate Minor Moderate Negligible

Moderate/ Minor/

MAGNITUDE OF EFFECT OF MAGNITUDE Low Moderate Minor Negligible Minor Negligible

Minor/ Negligible Minor Minor Negligible Negligible Negligible

The Landmark Practice Appendix A