Landscape Character Assessment of County

Roscommon County Council

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT OF

May 2014 By

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page i Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page ii Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

TABLE OF CONTENTS Pages

SECTION 1

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT OF COUNTY ROSCOMMON 1

1.1 The Brief 1 1.2 What is Landscape Character Assessment? 1

SECTION 2

OBJECTIVES AND GUIDELINES 5

2.1 Introduction 5 2.2 Opportunities Presented by the Unique Landscape Character of County Roscommon 5 2.3 Consideration of General Landscape Objectives 6 2.3.1 Influences 6 2.3.2 Objectives 8 2.4 Development Controls to Ameliorate Landscape Constraints and Facilitate Sustainable Development 9

SECTION 3

LANDSCAPE APPROACH TO BUILT DEVELOPMENT 12

3.1 Introduction 12 3.2 Housing 12 3.2.1 Housing in Existing Settlement 12 3.2.2 Housing in Rural Areas 13 3.3 Rural Buildings and Alternative Enterprise Proposals 16 3.4 Quarries 17 3.5 Wind Farm Development 20 3.6 Forestry and Bio-fuels 22

SECTION 4

LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT STUDY 27

4.1 Introduction 27 4.2 GIS analysis and Desk Study Mapping Of County Roscommon 27 4.3 Landscape Character and Values Mapping 38 4.4 Detailed Landscape Assessment 43

APPENDICES : APPENDIX 1: Map of Scenic Routes and Scenic Views 117 APPENDIX 2: Minutes of Stakeholder Consultation Meetings 159

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page iii Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

SECTION 1: LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT OF COUNTY ROSCOMMON

1.1 THE BRIEF

The aim of the project was to carry out a landscape character assessment that will provide the technical background for the Planning Authority to formulate a set of Landscape Objectives and Policy Recommendations for County Roscommon. These objectives and policy recommendations strive to achieve a balance between the proactive need to accommodate change, optimising of landscape aesthetics and due reflection of the sensitivity of various landscape (including social and economic) related values, involving:

‹ The conservation and enhancement of the landscape diversity, character and quality of the County; ‹ Protection of sensitive areas from development that would detract from or be injurious to the amenity of the area; ‹ Provision for development and change that would benefit the economy of the county including the rural economy while protecting and enhancing the landscape; ‹ Identification of suitable ‘working’ landscapes where there is potential to accommodate development.

The landscape objectives and policy recommendations focus on the following five specific development types:

‹ Housing (including housing in existing settlements as well as single rural dwellings relating to the guidance set out in the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities); ‹ Quarries 1; ‹ Wind farms; ‹ Afforestation; and ‹ Rural buildings and alternative enterprise proposals (an increase of farm buildings is anticipated as a result of the recent EU Nitrates Directive 2).

1.2 WHAT IS LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT?

Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) is a study of a given landscape to ascertain its ‘character’. Landscape character is the combination of physical, as well as, perceived aspects of the landscape. Landscape character maps and an accompanying document with descriptions and recommendations is the end product of the assessment process. The aim of the County Roscommon LCA is to provide a tool for decision making regarding development control and to influence landscape policy at Local Authority level.

There are two stages in the LCA process. The first is ‘characterisation’ and the second is ‘making of judgements’ about landscape character.

Definition of ‘landscape’?

Landscape is understood to be a combination of the physical, the ‘seen’, the cultural and the perceived elements that merge together to form the general character of an area. Landscape has been defined as:

All that is visible when looking across areas of land 3;

1 Under Section 261 of the Planning and Development Act as amended, the Planning Authority are retrospectively granting permission to existing sites or requiring them to apply for planning permission. 2 National Action Programme under the Nitrates Directive. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DEHLG) and the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAF), 2005 3 Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (2000), Draft Landscape and Landscape Assessment Guidelines

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 1 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

The relationship between people and place…The term does not mean just special or designated landscapes and it does not apply to the countryside…It results from the way different components of our environment – both natural and cultural – interact together and are perceived by us 4;

Landscape means an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors;

Why do a Landscape Character Assessment?

Section 10, Planning and Development Act 2000 5 requires that all Local Authorities consider ‘the character of the landscape’ when drawing up objectives for their new county development plans, in the interests of proper planning and sustainable development.

The European Landscape Convention (ELC), which ratified in 2002, requires signatories to assess and map their landscapes in the interest of wider European landscape planning and sustainable development. An important aspect of the ELC was to engage in widespread public consultation when assessing landscape value, which is a key component of the Roscommon LCA.

LCA Stage 1: Characterisation

Characterisation is the first stage of the process and involves a desk study to ascertain from existing available information with the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) the landform and landcover of a given landscape. Other aspects such as nature designations and historical monuments are also taken into account. Initial draft maps of the character areas and character types are produced based on professional interpretation of the desk information and field work is then conducted to ‘ground truth’ the maps. The refinements are made to the maps accordingly.

Landscape Character Type

Landscape Character Types are distinct landscapes that are relatively homogeneous in character. They are generic in nature in that they may occur in different areas in different parts of the country, but wherever they occur they broadly share similar combinations of geology, topography, drainage patterns, vegetation, historical land use and settlement pattern. For example drumlins and mountain moorlands are recognisable and distinct landscape character types 6.

Landscape Character Areas

Landscape Character Areas are unique, geographically-specific areas of a particular landscape type. Each has its own individual character and identity, even though it shares the same generic characteristics with other areas of the same type. This distinction is reflected in the naming of types and areas: landscape character types have generic names, but landscape character areas ake on the names of specific places. Example might be the south Leitrim drumlins and the Wicklow mountain moorlands 7.

4 The Countryside Agency and the Scottish Natural Heritage (2002), Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland 5 Part II, s10(e) of the Local Government Planning and Development Act 2000 6 The Countryside Agency and the Scottish Natural Heritage (2002), Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland 7 Ibid

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 2 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

LCA Stage 2: Making of Judgements

The second stage of the process is to record the value placed on the landscape character areas. The Roscommon LCA has put huge weight on the importance of consulting widely with both local and national interest groups and, more importantly, the people of Roscommon to discover what landscapes are valued and why.

Mapping of Landscape Value

A number of different studies were undertaken to classify landscape values in County Roscommon. These involved to varying degrees Community Groups, Roscommon County Council and the Consultants. An outline of the stepwise procedure used is provided below.

Desk Reviews

The Landscape Consultants first carried out a literature review of the most pertinent documents relating to landscape value and sensitivity, including the County Development Plan 2008-2014.

Consultation with Planning Staff

All available members of the County Council Planning staff were invited to take part in an exercise to map (1) landscape quality and (2) the location of scenic views and scenic routes. They were provided with maps of the county and asked to map roads not designated in the CDP as Scenic Routes but which are perceived to be of such high quality that they might warrant designation.

Initial Field Work

Following the consultation with planning staff, the Consultants spent a number of day’s in-the-field examining the landscapes of County Roscommon and assessing them in terms of value. The field work also enabled the Consultants to examine those locations identified by the Council Planning staff as being potential scenic routes and scenic views. The outcome of this latter study was the preparation of a draft Scenic Routes and Scenic Views Map, a copy of which is depicted in Appendix 1.

Community Consultation

The Consultants placed a high priority on consulting with local community groups on their aspirations and concerns for the Roscommon landscape. In total three community focus group meetings were held, one in , the other two in Roscommon Town. Those community groups deemed to be most relevant to the landscape study were selected from the Community Forum database and invited to attend the events. There was also some public advertisement of the events in local newspapers as well as on local radio. Following introductory presentations by the Consultants, the focus group attendees were organised into tables comprising 5 to 6 individuals. They were then asked to engage in a mapping exercise with the principle aim of identifying landscapes of high value. They were asked to highlight those landscapes they most value using coloured markers and to indicate in writing why those landscapes are regarded as being special. The Consultants deliberately provided no guidance on how landscapes should be judged. Instead, the attendees were encouraged to approach their assessment of landscape with a broad appreciation of what makes certain areas more special, whether for aesthetic, cultural, natural or environmental reasons.

The mapping exercise proved to be a very effective medium for highlighting the landscapes perceived to be most valued in County Roscommon. The open and informal forum also encouraged much debate within and between groups as a representative from each group had to present an overview of their table’s deliberations on landscape value. Despite the wide ranging views held by different individuals and groups

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 3 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

(ranging from pro-development to conservative), common ground could be recognised when all the maps were collectively reviewed.

In addition to mapping of special landscapes, the focus group attendees were asked to openly debate a number of forces of change, including single rural dwellings, forestry and wind farms. The main issues which emerged during this discussion are noted in the minutes of the meetings, presented in Appendix 2.

Preparation of Draft Landscape Values Map

The marked-up maps prepared by the three Focus Groups were collated and reviewed by the Consultants. In the majority of locations, there was broad agreement between the professional judgement of the Consultants and the mapping prepared by the attendees. As a practical example of this, the Rathcroghan and Lough Key areas were identified early on in the study by the Consultants as being of exceptional landscape value. This judgement was later supported by the fact that practically all of the groups in the community meetings highlighted those same areas as being particularly special.

Landscape value can be a mixture of criteria that combine to make an area special. Many of the focus group attendees described the places they valued using these same criteria, as follows:

‹ Distinctiveness – A landscape that is highly distinctive from its surrounds as being easily identifiable in its own right (Drumlin Lakelands in the north east of the county). ‹ Quality – Landscapes of very high quality and which are in good condition tend to be highly valued (Lough Key Forest Park) ‹ Rarity – whether at a national or international level (Rathcroghan archaeological site) ‹ Representativeness – The area might represents such a particularly good example of a given landscape type that it is highly valued (Esker landscapes in the south and north west of the county)

Regarding the classification of landscape value, the Consultants decided to use the following four levels:

‹ Exceptional Value ‹ Very High Value ‹ High Value ‹ Moderate Value 8.

Those landscapes of Exceptional Value tend to be generally sensitive to forces of change and development should be more restricted in such areas. Landscapes of Moderate Value, on the other hand, tend to be less sensitive and are therefore more tolerant of change. Each of the 36 landscape character areas were classified according to the above four levels of landscape value, the result of which is presented later in Section 4.

LCA Stage 3 Landscape Policies and Recommendations

The final stage is to combine the physical and perceived elements of landscape character and interpret these with regard to built development. In other words, how sensitive the landscape character areas are to built development. This information is often presented in matrix format. In this study, however, a prescriptive matrix is not proposed. Instead, detailed recommendations are made for each of the 36 landscape character areas.

8 In the study pertaining to County Roscommon, the Consultants chose not to use the ‘Low Landscape Value’ classification as it is felt that there are be no landscapes of low level.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 4 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

SECTION 2: OBJECTIVES AND GUIDELINES

2.1 INTRODUCTION

The public consultation aspect of Roscommon Landscape Character Assessment has identified places that are of most value to the people of Roscommon. The study will help to ensure built development will have regard to the surrounding landscape. By integrating new development sensitively with landscape character a strong sense of place will be maintained and the quality of life of the people of Roscommon improved. When describing the places of most value many people identified the quiet, remote spots (like bogs, lakes, forests or elevated view points) as well as places with strong built heritage (such as archaeological landscapes, old demesnes, castles and stonewalls) and nature conservation areas. People valued these not least because of their tourism potential, but because they are proud of them. Generally speaking, people were open to all kinds of development in different types of landscapes, but also recognised the need for balance and restraint where appropriate. Many expressed concern at the quality of housing from both a design and environmental perspective. There was widespread agreement that design guidelines were necessary in this regard. Increasing biodiversity through tree and hedgerow planting in towns, villages and rural areas was repeatedly mentioned.

Overall, it would be fair to say that the people of Roscommon are very proud of their landscape and feel that it is an untapped resource, which is in danger of being eroded by insensitive development. People would like to see the quality of their landscapes improved and their built heritage recovered or preserved as an everyday visible reminder of what it means to live in County Roscommon.

The landscape policies that will be recommended seek to address insofar as practicable the concerns expressed by people at the focus group meetings. They will focus on key development types such as single rural dwellings, farm buildings, wind farms, quarries (particularly in relation to eskers) and forestry. The tourism potential of County Roscommon cannot be overstated, given its rich water based amenities and opportunities for tranquil nature based activities. These landscape resources must be highlighted and developed where ever possible.

2.2 OPPORTUNITIES PRESENTED BY THE UNIQUE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER OF COUNTY ROSCOMMON

The urban and rural landscape of Roscommon offer many opportunities for sustainable development. These have been identified during the public debate:

1. There is a spread of towns and villages within the county that are already serviced with water and waste water treatment systems. An audit of physical and social infrastructure will identify where there is spare capacity to accommodate expansion of the urban footprint. 2. The heritage quality of towns such as Roscommon, Boyle and Elphin is highly valued and viewed as an opportunity to provide a quality living environment if developed sensitively. 3. Certain landscape types found in the County provide a good opportunity to accommodate change without compromising the landscape. Landscape character types such as Drumlin Lakeland, Wet Farmland and Bog and Farmland Complex can often absorb the impact of new development due to their visual complexity created by variation in both landform and landcover. A landscape visual capacity matrix is attached in Appendix 1. There is a major opportunity to bring about an improvement to the quality of single rural dwellings in the countryside through the introduction of character-specific design guidance. Such guidance could build on the work initiated in through the inclusion of recommendations regarding low energy and even Passive House standard design. 4. The mix of rare landscape features including bogs, turloughs, callows and eskers create a unique character to County Roscommon and provide a valuable opportunity for geo-tourism.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 5 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

5. The considerable extent of waterways including rivers, turloughs, wetlands and fens offer a rich and varied resource offering sites of significant ecological importance and scenic value as well as considerable potential for fishing and tourism development. 6. Remnants of earlier settlements at Rathcroghan, , Rindoon and the various O’Connor’s castles bring a sense of continuity to the county. An appreciation of the heritage value and tourism potential of these sites was well highlighted in public consultation sessions. 7. There are areas of agriculture, forestry and bogland that may in the future offer sustainable resources for new enterprise, for example: ‹ Eco Tourism with walking trails in cut-bogs and forests. ‹ Bio-energy including the wider use of anaerobic digesters to produce bio-fuel from the waste streams of abattoir slurry and sewage sludge. ‹ Ash tree afforestation. ‹ Commercial production of sheep wool for high quality insulation. 8. The visitor centre at provides sound evidence of the potential to develop tourism enterprises based on previous industrial land uses. A similar project could perhaps be inspired by the bogs and electricity generation plant at Lanesborough. 9. The development of wind energy projects was generally welcomed and could be facilitated by the high voltage grid connection found at Lanesborough in the east of the county. 10. There are opportunities to improve degraded areas with potential to develop an economy of small scale rural enterprise and tourism. 11. If details of access can be agreed in conjunction with private owners and the Local Authority, new areas may be opened up for the enjoyment by the public (examples include national monuments and lesser known archaeological sites). 12. Particular locations were highlighted by members of the local community as being highly valued for the rare tranquility qualities that they offer. Whilst County Roscommon may not offer many and varied dramatic scenic landscapes there is clearly a great love of intimate scenic places such as wetland landscapes and the isolation of blanket bog areas, particularly in the north east of the county where attention was drawn to the ‘rare quality of the light’. 13. As part of this study existing and proposed Scenic Routes and Scenic Views have been drafted to provide opportunities to improve the quality of life for residents and to encourage tourism. Such places can encourage passing tourists to stop and enjoy the Roscommon landscape. The mapping of such locations will provide an opportunity to protect the most important views 14. There are greater opportunities to develop readily visible ‘gateway’ features on entry to the county, such as the notable warrior sculpture on the N4.

2.3 CONSIDERATION OF GENERAL LANDSCAPE OBJECTIVES

2.3.1 Influences

Valued Landscapes

Certain views are particularly valued by the local community for their local amenity and tourism value. A draft map of Scenic Routes and Scenic Views has been prepared identifying these. The focus group meetings identified a number of special places where it was considered that the quality of the landscape requires particular protection. The most highly valued landscapes are listed below, but a fuller discussion of the outcome of the focus group deliberations is presented later in Appendix 2:

‹ Lough Key Forest Park and surrounding area, including Boyle and the Curlew Mountains. ‹ Rathcroghan archeological complex. ‹ The Shannon and Suck river corridors which flow in a north-south direction on the eastern and western side of the county. ‹ Roscommon Town and surrounding areas, including Skrine Hill to the south, due to its unique built heritage.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 6 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

‹ bogland area retains a unique sense of isolation and tranquility which was particularly highlighted by the public as a quality that needed protection as a distinctive feature of the landscape in Roscommon. ‹ Eskers were considered sensitive to quarrying. This is further supported by discussions held with staff working at the GSI.

Section Four of this document describes each character type and character area in detail, highlighting the key physical, cultural and ecological features. Each section will recommend ways in which the landscape quality can be protected by judicious strategies for development. There are also a number of other drivers of change that will need to be considered, particularly in relation to the natural environment of the County, which is mapped and described in Section Four of this report.

Bio-diversity Plans

The need to protect biodiversity is becoming increasingly stringent and policies within the County Development Plan will need to have regard to a number of international, national and regional plans, including Ireland’s commitment under the Convention on Biological Diversity to ‘Halt the Loss of biodiversity by 2010’. The newly opened National Biodiversity Records Centre, attached to Waterford Institute of Technology, may be able to contribute to providing baseline studies of County Roscommon.

European Directives

Recent opinions and legal proceedings from the European Court of Justice over failures to fully apply EU Directives requires much higher levels of compliance with European environment policy. Thus where development is proposed close to a designated ‘Natura 2000’ site it will be necessary to prepare an appropriate assessment under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), normally an Environmental Impact Statement to confirm that no damage will occur to the habitat as a result of the development. It is also a requirement that the habitat value of undesignated and other known sites of significance are protected from damage.

Water Framework Directive

There is a particular need to carefully consider the water abstraction needs of new development in a landscape replete with watery fens and turloughs. This will take on greater import as the Water Framework Directive is implemented in County Roscommon. An objective to produce Environmental Impact Statements for significant developments likely to impact on water tables will be appropriate to establish how much water can be abstracted before there is significant impact upon these ecologically valuable areas. The constraint of development on flood plains and the creation of 50m set backs from rivers will be necessary to protect water quality and watery habitats such as the Ballinturly SAC where wintering geese and swans are visible from the Road

2.3.2 Objectives

In response to issues raised in the public consultation and other expert advice the following general objectives relating to landscape characterisation may be appropriate. More specific recommendations for each Landscape Character Area will be presented later in Section 4. Policies are not designed to repeat national planning policy or regional planning guidelines but should explain how they apply to local circumstances. They will recommend the circumstances in which planning permission may or may not be granted in order to protect the countryside for the sake of its intrinsic quality, beauty and tranquility, the diversity of its landscape, heritage and wildlife, and the wealth of its natural resources, so that it may be enjoyed by all.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 7 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

1. Policies should reflect the spatial vision for the county, which will aim to channel new residential and commercial buildings into the towns, villages and rural areas as appropriate where necessary infrastructure can be provided. New development in the rural hinterland away from existing settlement will be encouraged where it supports the rural community and rural economy and is appropriate in terms of scale, character and location. 2. Infrastructural development (including roads, public transport facilities, new bio-energy production units such as anaerobic digesters, waste management facilities), applications for forest and bio-fuel crops, wind turbines, and necessary quarries should also be encouraged in appropriate areas. Special attention should be directed towards the landscape values map wherein development can be expected to be constrained in areas of Exceptional Value. In the detailed landscape character descriptions that follow, recommendations regarding tolerance of change for various development kinds are summarised. 3. Tourism economy will be encouraged by the development of the built and natural environment of the county, in particular the enhancement of waterways and islands, the promotion of walking in scenic and tranquil areas, the restoration of architectural heritage and archaeological sites in urban and rural settings, and the protection of Scenic Routes and Scenic Views. 4. Applications should be assessed in regard to: ‹ The conservation of natural resources including the prudent use of land, energy, water and air quality. ‹ The protection, maintenance and restoration of the varied landscape qualities of each character area. To promote a sense of place, proposals for development should take into account the local distinctiveness and sensitivity of each character area as described in the Landscape Character Assessment. ‹ The protection and enhancement of the landscape setting of existing communities including view corridors, panoramic views from key vantage points and prominent ridgelines. The retention of separation (un-built land) between different settlements will be considered, especially where their context is regarded as worthy of preservation and enhancement. The existing pattern of woodland, trees, field boundaries, vegetation and other features should inform decisions regarding new development. ‹ The protection of the natural environment, bio-diversity and sites of geological interest. Close adherence to EU Directives and recent European Court judgements regarding priority habitats (such as limestone pavements, blanket bogs and turloughs), designated sites and other sensitive areas will be expected. ‹ Development proposals should have regard to the special qualities of water courses and water bodies and their surroundings such as valley floors, in particular the and the . Not only do their scenic qualities provide a valuable resource for the encouragement of tourism within County Roscommon but they also present a rich and varied eco-system as well as providing a buffer to absorb changing rain patterns expected in a period of climate change. ‹ Development proposals should have regard to the special recognition of the eskers in the west and south of the county and their inter-related geo-morphological landscape and archaeological significance. ‹ Development proposals should have regard to the protection of the built environment, recognizing the historic character and heritage value of features identified in the Landscape Character Study. Development that restores historic buildings will be encouraged. New development in areas of built heritage of strong character should meet standards laid out in design guidelines. These will include guidance on the use of local traditional building materials and local building skills. It should be an objective to respect the cultural value of urban ephemera such as pillar boxes or railings. Remnants of a rural culture such as holy wells or stone walls should also be valued and retained in new development where practicable. ‹ Development proposals should have regard to the objective that development should not erode the rural character of landscape and settlements by introducing unnecessary light and noise into remote and tranquil areas. Insensitive or urbanised highway treatments, fencing and

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 8 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

signage can erode the essential quality of these areas specifically identified by local communities as sensitive yet highly valued.

2.4 DEVELOPMENT CONTROLS TO AMELIORATE LANDSCAPE CONSTRAINTS AND FACILITATE SUBSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Analysis of the distinct character areas in Section Four provides a key to answering many of the critical questions that need to be asked when considering the opportunities, constraints and possible mitigating measures of a particular application on a particular site in a particular landscape.

A number of recurring themes arose in the public consultation sessions that may benefit from further investigation. Developments that follow strategies laid out in guidance notes will meet the objective of facilitating sustainable development by ensuring that the best possible proposal can be put forward, informed by the principles of best practice.

Design Guidelines

The objective of Roscommon County Council, during the currency of the County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 is to adopt a set of design guidelines to assimilate new developments into the existing urban and rural landscapes. Detail on how best to locate a dwelling within a site, how to work with the vernacular style of the area including the use of local materials, how to treat boundaries and how to lay out an estate to create a pedestrian friendly environment should be included. Specific advice on how to protect landscape features during the construction phase of development may also be included.

Design guidelines currently being developed by Roscommon County Council provide generic information that can be considered in relation to the local information provided in the descriptions of local character areas in Section Four.

Landscaping Guidelines

Landscaping Guidelines are needed to provide practical information to planning applicants on how to treat site boundaries by planting native species. The guidelines will address the loss of habitats and increase biodiversity. Landscape guidelines should be made a planning condition and enforced by the provision of a bond by the applicant and refunded by the Local Authority upon inspection at a later date .

Light Pollution

Lighting is needed for the safety and security of road users and pedestrians and can be used to great effect in highlighting attractive buildings of architectural interest. However, unsuitable lighting can cause problems of shadowing and intrusion by glare and dazzle and may affect both people and the natural environment.

A variety of light sources may cause pollution including street lighting, illuminated signs and advertisements, security lighting, overspill from office/commercial premises and floodlighting of buildings and open spaces.

'Skyglow' is now recognised as a form of light pollution. This is caused by the refraction of light, emanating from larger settlements, by water vapour and dust particles, so creating an orange colouring of the sky, which can eliminate views of the night sky. Where unaffected by Skyglow, the darkness of the countryside can provide a welcome contrast to an otherwise well-lit night sky. By reducing the amount of excess light spilling into the night sky, both Skyglow and energy consumption can be decreased.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 9 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

By considering the application of the following principles to all applications for planning permission, it should be possible to achieve an attractive and safe night-time environment that minimises light pollution.

‹ All lighting should be the minimum necessary to be effective. ‹ Energy-efficient installations should be used wherever possible, with consideration given to the colour of this lighting, especially in Architectural Conservation Areas. However, in some cases, high-pressure sodium lights that generate a white light will be preferable to the more energy-efficient, low-pressure sodium (orange) lights. This principle should also take into account the environmental impacts of the higher energy usage and production involved with the High Pressure lighting, as well as issues of increased light pollution and the County Council’s responsibility to provide public lighting within settlements. ‹ Lighting should be designed to limit spillage above the horizontal plane. ‹ Where reasonably achievable floodlights should be directed downwards onto the target, rather than upwards towards the sky. ‹ In some cases, it may be necessary to install baffles and shields, for example, in order to protect residential properties from light emanating from commercial, industrial or recreation facilities.

Very specific information on how to meet these conditions is now available and could be incorporated into guidance notes.

Sustainable Construction Values

Guidance notes may be helpful to advise applicants on sustainable construction values, passive housing, energy ratings and water conservation methods to meet the challenge of climate change and declining energy resources that is predicted to impact within the lifetime of buildings being constructed now.

The County Council will apply best practice on sustainable construction and energy conservation by reference to guidance from the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government.

Sustainable Drainage Systems

As an overarching consideration, developments will be required as appropriate, to be cognisant of Chapter 4.4 “Flood Risk and Protection” within Roscommon County Development Plan 2014-2020. This chapter takes consideration of the departmental issue; “Planning Systems and Flood Risk Management Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2009”. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) refers to an approach to the management of surface water drainage that involves the reduction, attenuation on site and/or slowing of surface water runoff to more closely follow the natural runoff patterns. SuDS provide a more sustainable approach to surface water management than conventional methods, which generally involve piping surface water directly to the nearest watercourse or river. SuDS can help to reduce the environmental impacts of development and storm water runoff, provide a more cost-effective surface water drainage system and create more visually appealing, ecologically functional and useable open space environments and amenities in developed areas. SuDS fall into three main groups which aim to:

1. Reduce the quantity of runoff from the site (source control techniques). Examples include the use of permeable car parking surfaces, infiltration trenches, infiltration basins, etc. 2. Slow the velocity of runoff to allow settlement, filtering and infiltration (permeable conveyance systems). Examples include filter (or French) drains and surface water swales. 3. Provide passive treatment to collected surface water before discharge into land or to a watercourse (end of pipe systems). Examples include filter strips, detention basins, retention ponds, constructed wetlands, etc.

All planning applications for developments consisting of more than single rural dwellings should carry out hydrological investigations as part of standard EPA tests.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 10 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Useful guidance notes already published by various Government agencies

‹ Requirements for the Protection of Fisheries Habitat during Construction and Development Works at River Sites. Eastern Regional fisheries Board . (This deals with bridges and culverts) . ‹ Policy Statement on Development Management and Access to National roads. NRA, June 2006 (this deals with ribbon development on regional roads) . ‹ Pilot Landscape Character Assessment of County Clare. The Heritage Council, 1999. ‹ Cork Rural Design Guide: Building a new House in the Countryside. Cork County Council, 1993. ‹ Landscape and Landscape Assessment. Consultation Draft of Guidelines for Local Authorities. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 2000. ‹ A Guide to Landscape Treatments for National Road Schemes in Ireland. National Roads Authority, 2006. ‹ Wind Energy Development Guidelines for Planning Authorities. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 2006. ‹ Forestry and the Landscape Guidelines. Forest Service, 1998. ‹ Urban Design Compendium. Rural Partnership . (This deals with urban design standards and lists criteria by which to assess the design of urban estates). ‹ Farm buildings and the environment. An Foras Taluntais. ‹ County Roscommon Hedgerow Survey, by Neil Foulkes and Anja Murray. Heritage office & Roscommon County Council, 2005. This document presents specific policy recommendations to retain hedgerows wherever possible, particularly those hedgerows identified has having unique qualities. The document proposes that retention, relocation and re-establishment of hedgerows should be the subject of financial bonds as a planning condition. ‹ Study of the extent and conservation status of springs, Fens and Fisheries in Ireland, by Peter Foss. NPWS 2007.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 11 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

SECTION 3: LANDSCAPE APPROACH TO BUILT DEVELOPMENT

3.1 INTRODUCTION

The determination of a planning application depends not only on the receiving environment and any ameliorating measures prescribed but also on the type of development proposed.

The notes below constitute the main issues around five types of development likely to come to the forefront of planning choices within the time frame of the next development plan. These are listed below:

‹ Housing; ‹ Rural buildings and alternative enterprise proposals; ‹ Wind farms; ‹ Quarries; and ‹ Forestry (and bio-fuels crops).

Where the analysis of a character area throws up particular issues relating to the assimilation of these types of development, recommendations are noted with the individual descriptions.

3.2 HOUSING

3.2.1 Housing in Existing Settlements

Trends

Trends indicate increasing demand for new housing in county Roscommon. This is to be welcomed, particularly where it is concentrated in existing settlements to encourage a strong urban structure which is essential to the economic well being of the County.

Issues

A number of concerns were raised by attendees at the focus group meetings regarding new development in existing settlements. These include:

1. New development and in-migration generally was welcomed by the community for the diversity and energy that it may bring to County Roscommon. 2. The importance of appreciating the architectural heritage of the built environment. There were objections to the development of housing within the grounds of heritage houses and castles. 3. The monotony and sterility of some housing estate design in villages and towns does not improve the sense of place. Gated developments evoked a negative response from consultees. 4. New building does not integrate well with the surrounding area. 5. New developments must be pedestrian friendly, ensuring ease of connection to services and amenities by foot. 6. Poor construction values and insufficient attention paid to providing low energy demand and group supply technologies (for example district heating systems using wood pellets) will leave a legacy of fuel poverty for home owners.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 12 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

General response and recommendations regarding the relationship between new urban development and the existing urban character of the location are as follows:

1. Include policy objectives that ensure the consideration of landscape character, value and sensitivity when assessing applications for new development. 2. The National Spatial Strategy includes a valuable chart box 5.2 in chapter 5 on the location of housing in urban areas. This lists the criteria that can be used to assess new development proposals. ‹ The asset test: Are there existing community resources such as schools etc with spare capacity? ‹ The carrying capacity test: Is the environmental setting capable of absorbing development in terms of drainage etc? ‹ The transport test: Is there potential for reinforcing usage of public transport, walking or cycling? ‹ The economic development test: is there the potential to ensure integration between housing and employment? ‹ The character test: will the proposal reinforce the sense of place and character? ‹ The community test: Will the proposal reinforce the integrity and vitality of the local community and services that can be provided? ‹ The integration test. Will the proposal aid an integrated approach to catering for the housing needs of all sections of society? 3. It should be an objective of the Council to establish a rolling programme to encourage the preparation of Village Design Statements in co-operation in with local communities for settlements in County Roscommon that are experiencing development pressure or where the local community express an interest. The objectives of the Statement would be to Identify and describe the distinctive character of the village and the surrounding countryside and to establish design principles based on that distinctive character. The Statement will provide a strong, locally based, advisory input into future development and planning policy in the area. 4. Include development control objectives to encourage and promote the use of local building materials and skills.

3.2.2 Housing in Rural Areas

Existing patterns and trends

The settlement pattern in County Roscommon may be characterised as dispersed with low levels of population across the county, particularly in the north, and a high percentage of single rural housing.

The National Spatial Strategy 9 identifies an important need to support the role of rural towns and villages at the local level, as a focus for investment, economic activity and housing development, which at the same time will support the vitality of wider rural areas. The West Regional Authority Planning Guidelines 10 has an objective to minimise sprawling development of towns and villages so as to create consolidated village form and to support development in the towns and villages in the region that is in sympathy with the existing built environment, ensuring that any approved developments are in keeping with the town or village ethos which may be unique to each settlement.

Whilst there is a population trend towards urban areas there is still a significant demand for single rural housing where land is cheaper.

9 National Spatial Strategy. 2002-2020. People Places and Potential. Department of the Environment 2002. 10 Regional Planning Guidelines. West Region, published by the West Regional authority, 2003.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 13 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Dispersed settlement pattern can constitute the least sustainable response to meeting housing demand 11 however the need for some rural housing is acknowledged in the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines 2006 to allow for permanent settlement in structurally weak areas of the county to stop the decline of population and to provide for local demand from people needing to live outside of the towns for economic or social reasons.

Issues

1. The County Development Plan will define policy to manage the development of dispersed housing but the aspect that this report specifically considers is the visual impact within the landscape. This was a matter of great concern for many members of the focus groups, particularly as the sites most in demand appear to be elevated scenic areas close to urban centres. The need to preserve valued Scenic Routes and Scenic Views was raised and this report includes a table of special views both in rural and urban areas. 12 2. There was also a strong voice from the focus groups that certain areas were too precious to spoil, not least the remote and tranquil landscapes found in areas of boglands, upland forests and lakelands. 3. The quality of architecture and position of new buildings in scenic areas was also an issue of concern with an expressed preference for the use of local materials in designs in keeping with the local vernacular (Figure 1). The retention of stone walls and native hedgerows was raised by consultees . These endower the countryside with a distinctive and attractive appearance. In particular, regional and local variations in hedgerows contribute significantly to the distinctiveness of Roscommon’s landscape character.

They make up the familiar setting that is so central to the cultural heritage and tourism and give the impression of a wooded landscape. 13

There was considerable interest by members of the focus groups in the need for design guidelines.

Figure 1:Examples of vernacular architecture in Roscommon

11 Whilst some people express a preference for rural living for the space and low crime levels that it may offer, there is a need to ensure that all the external costs of rural housing are taken into account when assessing applications for permission to build. This will include the economic costs of providing services in rural areas, the social costs of families facing long commutes to work and the environmental costs of carbon credits where commuting patterns of residents involve long distances and high global warming emissions. 12 See Appendix 1 13 Ibid

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 14 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

4. Another key issue in relation to rural housing is the impact of water abstraction and water quality. Landscape qualities described in the main section of this report will assist in identifying areas where the potential to drain important wet lands or the potential to pollute ground water is most likely (for example in karst areas). The usefulness of proprietary water treatment systems to overcome the potential to pollute should be considered in the light of resources available to monitor the maintenance of these systems. Roscommon County Council should introduce strict controls to ensure that maintenance contracts on proprietary sewage treatment plants for single dwellings are applied and continued particularly in the ongoing life of the system.

Recommendations

Certain areas of Roscommon, for example rolling drumlin lakelands are characterised by landscape that can more easily assimilate housing and other development due to the inherent screening provided by rolling landform and dense arrangement of heavy hedgerows.

In Section Four special recommendations will be made as to how housing can best be assimilated by implementing policies to direct development into the most favoured sites.

In addition the concerns raised by members of the public suggest a number of specific responses and objectives that Roscommon County Council could adopt to assist in encouraging and controlling sustainable development of housing in rural areas.

1. A map of Scenic Routes and Scenic Views is presented in Appendix 1 and these should be taken into consideration in the determination of planning applications for development. 2. The appearance of development and its relationship to its surroundings should be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications. A survey of the site should be part of an application to develop and should include a site plan, site layout and a plan of existing built and natural landscape features that will be informed by the Landscape Character Study. For private single rural dwellings, the guidance notes titled Landscaping your House in County Roscommon with Native Trees and Shrubs (2007) prepared by the County Council of rural sites should be followed with a special emphasis on using local materials and tree species found in the immediate vicinity. 3. Development proposals should minimise the loss of hedgerows, trees and woodlands and pay regard to the Hedgerow survey. Where appropriate development proposals should include landscaping schemes that reflect the landscape character of the location as identified in the Landscape Character Study . 4. Applications should also include details of all services and infrastructure. Regard should be had to the provision of drains, pipe lines or cable routes that may cross the path of features that have been identified as significant in the Landscape Character Study. 5. The architectural design should take into consideration the vernacular style of the area and pay regard to any design guidelines adopted by Roscommon County Council. 6. Noise and light pollution will be taken into consideration in determining planning applications. In areas identified in the Landscape Character Study as being particularly valued for their tranquility applicants should be asked to submit management plans to limit the impact of pollution. 7. Sufficient measures should be put into place to avoid adverse impacts upon features noted in the Landscape Character Study during the period of construction particularly in relation to protecting existing mature trees and hedgerows, as well as the removal and storage of top soil, on site during the construction phase.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 15 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

3.3 RURAL BUILDINGS AND ALTERNATIVE ENTERPRISE PROPOSALS

Trends

Current trends indicate a downward trend in the number of new proposals compared to the previously encountered flourish evident from 2000 to 2007 in rural areas.

‹ The implementation of the EU Nitrates Directive will lead to many applications for slatted sheds and slurry pits. ‹ An evolving national energy policy will also encourage innovative enterprise in the rural areas for new processes including anaerobic digesters and bio-ethanol plants. Unlike forestry, which requires planning permission for blocks of over 50 hectares, planting bio-energy crops does not require planning permission, despite the fact that they will have considerable impact on the visual appearance of the landscape with bright yellow fields of rape or the bright blue of flax. However the processing new crops will require considerable modern infrastructure and new building. ‹ Other supports for farmers may encourage other alternative enterprises resulting in applications for change of use of existing farm buildings, for example tourism and leisure projects attached to farm buildings, sawmilling and other timber based industry, large scale vehicle and machinery depots, recycling services, engineering fabrication workshops for the construction industry. Many of these require large concrete aprons and the visual impact would be far more significant than existing farm use.

Response

While the most sustainable location for such infrastructure is adjacent to existing settlements, the County Council are required to agree objectives and polices to regulate applications for development in rural areas.

The criteria by which applications will be assessed will include the following:

‹ Will the development contribute to the local economy? Can the applicant demonstrate a particular locational, process or workforce related need to locate in the rural area? ‹ Are the traffic implications acceptable? Will this location add significantly to increased dependency on motor vehicles? Are the local roads adequate to absorb increased HGV traffic? New development will ‹ not be permitted with access to national primary roads except in existing settlements where the speed limit of 50-60kph applies, in accordance with NRA guidelines. ‹ Does the application include strategies for the ecological management of the site including loss of habitat and potential pollutants of air, soil and water? Is there a plan for the management of waste, energy and resources? ‹ How will the proposal impact on the local community? Are noise and light implications acceptable? Is the visual amenity in the area degraded? Is there any impact on local access?

Many of these questions can be answered by reference to the Landscape Character Assessment, particularly, but not only, questions regarding the ability of the landscape to visually absorb new development. These assessments are laid out in Section Four.

In order to meet the objectives proposed for landscape it will be necessary to include the following policies:

‹ Proposals should not negatively impact on the integrity of local amenities and landscape. Applications for development in the rural area will be assessed with regard to the Landscape Character Assessment of each area, especially regarding Scenic Routes and Scenic Views as well as those locations near features of visual and amenity attraction such as lakes and water courses as well as areas of strong cultural heritage.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 16 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

‹ It will be an objective of the council to publish design guidelines to assist applicants in the preparation of proposals. These will cover matters regarding layout and building design, car parking and circulation, boundary treatments appropriate to the landscape area, drainage, water supply, lighting, noise and advertising. ‹ Design controls included to minimise the impact of farm buildings and buildings for other alternative enterprises in rural areas will include a requirement to provide screening and shelter belts composed principally of native species. Where cladding is used on the exterior of farm buildings, dark colours (preferably dark green, red or grey) with matt finishes will be preferred.

3.4 QUARRIES

Current situation and future trends

Aggregates are a significant natural resource and the extractive industry makes an important contribution to economic development in Roscommon. During the last decade there has been increasing pressure to exploit eskers for sand and gravel. Many of the quarries operating today have a history of operation from before the introduction of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963 on 1 October 1964, whether permanently or on a seasonal or occasional basis.

Under the Planning and Development Act 2000 Section 261 all quarries, except those which obtained planning permission in the previous 5 years had to register with the planning authority. All quarries in the functional area of Roscommon County Council were assessed during 2012 in accordance with Section 261A of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 – 2011. As a result of this assessment it was determined that certain quarries, which due to their scale or potential impacts, should have had an Appropriate Assessment or Environmental Impact Assessment but did not, were required to apply to An Bord Pleanala for Substitute Consent or were subject to the service of a notice requiring the cessation of quarrying according to the circumstances. A number of cases are currently being reviewed by An Bord Pleanala.

However, there will be a continuing need for some new or expanded aggregate quarrying operations on land to meet regional and local requirements. There is thus a need to identify and protect aggregate resource areas through the planning system, to ensure an adequate supply of aggregates to meet the likely future demands, while at the same time protecting Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage.

In addition to aggregate quarries, there will likely be a need for road building rock in the near future to construct the N5 (works ongoing)and N4 (future bypass of Carrick-on-Shannon) which both pass through Roscommon. Issues

A number of issues regarding quarries were raised during public consultation in the preparation of this document. 1. The visual impact of quarrying in esker regions. 2. General dis-amenity created by noise and dust, as well as heavy traffic on small country roads. 3. Water pollution. Esker sand and gravel frequently contain the best source of good quality ground water in the midlands therefore it is important to take this into consideration when assessing discharge licenses for new or existing quarries. 4. Proper restoration was also raised as a concern.

Eskers

Eskers are long narrow sinuous ridges of sand and gravel that typically formed in sub glacial river channels during the ice age. They are an irreplaceable eco-system, having unique landscape features. Irish eskers are recognised as having European importance in need of special protection (see Council of European Communities 1992). Indeed the word ‘esker’ is the Anglicisation of the Irish word Eiscir. They are often

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 17 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon bounded by raised bogs and therefore form the only high and dry ground in the area. As a consequence eskers were used as route ways through the midlands since ancient times. The Eiscir Riada divides the country stretching from Meath, through Westmeath, Offaly, Roscommon and Galway and is mentioned in the Annals of the Four Masters 14 .

The Castlesampson Esker, close to , has been identified by the NPWS as an NHA and is described as one of the best examples of eskers in Roscommon. The importance of the site lies in its almost intact structure, something that is very rare in Irish eskers, in its relatively undisturbed state and in the presence of good quality, species-rich dry calcareous grassland of a type listed, with priority status, on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive (Special Area of Conservation). It provides a good contrast to the more acidic eskers nearby.

Other eskers of particular note in County Roscommon in LCA 24 are seen from Garranlahan.

Response

In order to encourage the sustainable development of quarries in Roscommon it should be an objective of Roscommon County Council to identify the location of major deposits and to safeguard valuable unworked deposits for future extraction.

The GSI has begun developing a new mineral resources programme with the aim of producing a series of maps including aggregate potential maps

In areas where aggregate potential has been identified, objectives should be included in the development plan in relation to the following:

‹ The protection of residential amenities. ‹ The prevention of pollution and the safeguarding of aquifers and groundwater. ‹ The protection of landscape.

Quarries will not be permissible on European sites (SAC’s), Natural Heritage Areas (NHA's), or other areas of importance for the conservation of flora and fauna, or in areas of significant archaeological potential, unless it can clearly be demonstrated within the framework of an Environmental Impact Statement that such quarries would not have significant adverse impacts on amenities or the environment. Special recognition should be given to the esker area in LCAs 34, 35, and 8 in south Roscommon and LCAs 24 and 25 in north Roscommon including all inter-related geo-morphological landscapes of archaeological significance.

The following development control objectives are extracted from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government ‘Quarries and ancillary activities Guidelines 2004’ will contribute towards the achievement of more sustainable aggregates development and restoration schemes, by seeking to avoid or minimise adverse impacts on the environment:

‹ Where possible, existing landscape features (such as hills and trees) should be used to screen new extractive industry development. Native species of trees and shrubs can be planted to create food reserves for wildlife. ‹ Heavy traffic should not be permitted on unsuitable roads and/or other specified roads, unless suitable upgrading or other improvements agreed with the planning authority are carried out. ‹ Landscaped mounds, sometimes using topsoil and overburden from the aggregate workings, can be constructed to screen unsightly excavations, plant or storage ponds. Topsoil and subsoil should be stored separately after surface clearance to facilitate re-use and should also be seeded. Once work has

14 Annals of the four masters, by Brother Michael O’Clery. The Convent of Dunagall, 1636,

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 18 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

started, it may be possible to move equipment and structures to well within the site and in some cases to locate plant in the deepest part, so as to lessen the visual, noise and dust nuisance impacts on adjoining properties. Suitable selection of colours and finishes for buildings and plant may help lessen the visual impact. ‹ Restoration is a process that will enable the worked-out quarry or sand pit to be used for its original purpose (such as agriculture) or adapted for a new use (such as amenity). Restoration includes design, initial landscaping works, soil spreading, final landform construction and aftercare. Aftercare is the work done after the replacement of the soil and includes fertilising, planting, construction of pathways, vegetation maintenance and an ongoing long-term commitment to the restored land. For successful restoration, steps must be taken at every stage, from design through operation to decommissioning of the facility, to ensure that restoration is integrated into the process. ‹ All proposed extractive development proposals must be accompanied by detailed restoration and after- care plans (although in the case of sites with a long working life, it may be appropriate to establish the need for such plans at the outset, while leaving the details to be agreed either on a phased basis or towards the end of the extractive process). Progressive restoration should be employed where relevant and practicable, e.g. for sand and gravel pits. ‹ All buildings, plant, internal roads and paved areas should be removed when extraction is completed, unless otherwise agreed as part of the restoration plan. Depending on the terrain, the existing character of the area, and the nature and scale of the aggregates extraction, a variety of after-uses may be possible, including farming, forestry, recreation/amenity uses, nature conservation, or industry. Where the excavated area will be below the water table, a landscaped pond or lake may be possible. It is important that the acceptability of the proposed after-use be discussed with the planning authority at the pre-application stage. The aspirations of the local community should be taken into account in this regard. ‹ The planning authority may, as a matter of policy, attach planning conditions requiring the developer to ‹ lodge a financial bond to ensure satisfactory reinstatement of the site following the completion of extraction, or to pay a contribution towards the cost of upgrading or repairing the local road network;

Other potential impacts such as noise, dust, vibration, the effect on the amount of water and lowering the water table (which would be a particular problem in Roscommon with its very watery habitats,) are discussed in the DoEHLG guidelines.

It is also recommended that planning authorities should familiarise themselves with evolving best environmental management practice as set out in Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines “Environmental Management in the Extractive Industry: Non-Scheduled Minerals”.

The Irish Concrete Federation (ICF) has drawn up an Environmental Code for the aggregate and concrete product industries, to promote member awareness of, and commitment to, good environmental principles.

3.5 WIND FARM DEVELOPMENT

Current situation and future trends

The Atlas of wind Speeds 15 indicate large areas of Roscommon that meet technical requirements for the development of wind turbine sites. However, Roscommon County has a very dispersed settlement pattern and, outside of areas that may be deemed inappropriate for one reason or another, there are few sites left that are more than 400 metres from a dwelling. Currently there are commercial wind farms in the Arigna Mountains and near Bockagh Hill north of .

The Energy White Paper March 2007 from the Department of Marine sets out important new policies to reduce fossil fuel dependency. 33% of energy supply is to be met by renewable energy sources by 2020

15 SEI's Wind Atlas is a digital map of Ireland's wind energy resource . It provides detailed information on wind speeds, electricity transmission and distribution networks for specific locations around Ireland at national and county levels

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 19 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon with wind energy as a significant component of this target. Additional government support and the proposed transfer of the electricity grid from ESB to EirGrid may result in further applications in County Roscommon.

Issues

1. Outcome of the public consultation sessions indicated that there is generally a very positive attitude towards the visual appearance of wind turbines in the landscape. There exists the perception that the turbines contribute towards green energy and are pollution free. There is also an appreciation of the abstract sculptural qualities of turbines, which can bring a positive contribution to the landscape. This confirms the research undertaken previously by SEI and involving MosArt 16 .

2. There were some concerns regarding the visual and ecological impact of necessary infrastructure. It is important that the County Development Plan achieves a balance between responding to Government policy on renewable energy and enabling the County’s energy resources to be harnessed in a manner that is consistent with proper planning and sustainable development.

The main potential impacts on habitats that can result in the reduction, or loss, of biodiversity are:

‹ Direct loss of habitat to the developments’ infrastructure, including turbine foundations, buildings, roads, quarries and borrow pits; ‹ Degradation of habitats through alteration or disturbance, in particular arising from changes to ‹ hydrology that may alter the surface or groundwater flows and levels, and drainage patterns critical in peatlands and river headwaters; ‹ Fragmentation of habitats and increased edge effects; and ‹ Degradation and loss of habitats outside the development site, especially wetland habitats that may arise from pollution, siltation and erosion originating from within the development site. In particular it was noted that there has been little scientific work done on the impacts caused to Blanket Bog and Heath habitats by wind turbine developments. It is known however, that they may impact severely on the functioning of an intact peatland system. It is a widely accepted conservation policy within blanket bog areas to avoid any fragmentation of the extensive blanket bog with developments including wind farms, as these impact adversely on the wildlife, eco-hydrology and physical characteristics of the peatland ecosystem. The laying of turbine foundations causes drying out and compaction of peat accompanied by habitat destruction. The infrastructure (servicing roads, power lines etc.) that must be installed causes further damage. The work carried out during construction cause major destruction to the habitats that may be irreversible. Peatlands are fragile hydrological systems that are difficult to restore once disturbed.

3. Wind Energy. Planning Guidelines 2006 propose that local authorities identify the key areas where there is sufficient wind energy potential and where wind energy development will be acceptable in principle subject to assessment regarding the built and natural environment and certain design and landscaping criteria.

Recourse to the Landscape Character Assessment in Section Four gives a clear indication that, subject to specific controls, examples of potentially appropriate locations might be found in such places as the Arigna Mountains, Bockagh Hill and surrounds, upland near Garranlahan, Greywood Hill uplands, Slieve Bawn and high ground to the east of Lough Funshinagh.

16 Attitudes towards the Development of Wind Farms in Ireland. Sustainable Energy Ireland, 2003.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 20 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

The Landscape Assessment will also offer additional information on each character area that will be necessary in order to assess the visual, cultural and environmental impacts of applications for wind turbines should they arise in any of the character areas. Response

It is recommended that the following objectives and policies be adopted with the County Development Plan:

1. It will be an objective of the Council to encourage the development of wind energy in suitable locations in an environmentally sensitive way in accordance with Wind Energy Planning Guidelines and land use policies of the County Development Plan. 2. It will be an objective of the Council to investigate the potential for relatively small-scale wind energy developments within urban and industrial areas, and for small community-based proposals outside the key areas that are identified as being potentially appropriate for wind energy development. Community ownership of wind energy projects enables local communities to benefit directly from local wind energy resources being developed in their local areas, ensuring long-term income for rural communities. 3. It should be a policy of the Council that applications for wind turbines be assessed with regard to: ‹ Wind Speed Atlas produced by SEI. ‹ Accessibility to the National Electricity Transmission and Distribution Grid. (This can be found in the Wind Atlas with further information available in the Transmission System Operators Forecast Statement www.eirgrid.com). ‹ The suitability of the site having regard to other land use policies and objectives to protect all aspects of the landscape including visual, cultural and environmental. All wind turbine proposals, irrespective of size should be subject to full and proper Environmental Impact Assessment.

4. Assessment of visual impact of proposals will have regard to the Landscape Character Assessment and in particular: ‹ The immediate visual impact and long distance views. ‹ Scenic Routes and Scenic Views depicted in Appendix 1. ‹ Sites of special value for example in the bogland north of Castlerea (LCA 27) and Upper Lough Ree (LCA 6) which has been identified as of particular importance for their sense of isolation and tranquility.

5. Applications should pay regard to guidance on the siting and design of wind farm projects that are included in the Wind Energy Planning Guidelines 2006.

6. Applications should pay regard to the Wind Energy Planning Guidelines 2006 regarding the landscape impact of associated development (including roads and tracks, power poles and lines, the control building, wind measuring mast and the compound) and during the construction phase.

7. Where wind energy developments are permitted on peatlands, the implementation of the following construction guidelines (along with others that are recommended in the Environmental Impact Statement) may serve to reduce impacts, including minimising habitat disturbance and loss, hydrological disruption and the risk of erosion:

‹ A thorough ground investigation, including hydro-geological investigations where appropriate, and a detailed evaluation of the nature of the peat, its geotechnical properties and the associated risk of instability and habitat loss or disturbance during construction and operation of the wind energy development, is to be carried out where the depth of peat is in excess of 50cm. ‹ Avoid construction, if possible, on wet areas, flushes and easily eroded soils. ‹ Avoid the excavation of drains, where possible, unless it is necessary for geotechnical or hydrological reasons.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 21 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

‹ If drains are unavoidable, ensure that silt traps are constructed and that there is only diffuse discharge of water. ‹ Avoid blocking existing drains. ‹ Where blasting is being used in or near a peatland area for borrow pits, foundations etc, the possible effect on the peat stability should be assessed. ‹ Avoid stock grazing on any disturbed peat until local peatland vegetation has recovered (e.g., by use of temporary electric fencing).

3.6 FORESTRY AND BIO-FUELS

Current situation

Data from 2011 shows that nearly 21,000 ha of forestry has been planted, representing 8.7% of the total land cover in the County (Landcover Map of Landscape Character Areas in Section 4). Some 13,000 ha of this is on private land with over 8,000 ha in public ownership. Much of this is currently on marginal land, in particular on Slieve Bawn, across the upper Arigna Valley, close to and around Ballinlough where it provides a significant element of the landscape character.

Trends in Forestry

There was a significant amount of planting in the county in the mid 1990’s and private applications for forestry are still grant driven. In the recent past demand has fallen as competing land uses, such as house building, have driven up the price of land and made the returns on forestry appear less rewarding. However if predictions of decline in the construction industry and falling prices for beef materialize there is likely to be renewed interest from the farming community for forestry, even in better quality land to the south of the county, particularly following the introduction of the Forest Environment Protection Scheme (FEPS) for farmers in REPS and greater uptake of the Native Woodland Scheme

Trends in Biofuels

It is too early to say whether the recent Bio-energy Action Plan for Ireland March 2007 17 will result in a change of land use towards the production of various energy crops such as Miscanthus and willow. Certainly in Roscommon the underlying watery nature of much of the land will deter production of willow. Even though these crops have some effect of drying out land, heavy machinery is required to harvest the crop during wet winter months when the land may be boggy. Willow requires high quality fertile soils in low lying, sheltered areas which will place it in competition with grain production, and willow does not like peaty soils which will rule it out over much of Roscommon.

Miscanthus tolerates a wider range of soils and although it requires plenty of summer rain it may prove more attractive to Roscommon farmers. Best Practice Manuals produced by the Department of Agriculture and Food include references to landscape and environment. The manuals indicate that production requires large scale equipment thus grassland rides at headlands and verges will make the retention of hedgerows and grass strips likely thereby reducing the visual impact on landscape and encouraging a healthy eco- system. 10% uncropped land allowed for in the grant system can accommodate landscape issues and assessors should be encouraged to refer to the Roscommon landscape character assessment when considering applications.

17 Bio-energy Action Plan for Ireland. Department of Agriculture and food. 2007. This includes proposals that Peat fired Power Stations in Lanesborough and Shannonbridge be co-fired by 30% renewables by 2015. New bio-fuel obligations for transport should average 5.75% by 2009 all public buses should use bio-fuel mix.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 22 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

The manuals also indicate that bio-fuels should be grown close to their intended production units and there may be an increase in applications for Bio-energy Stations which will impact on landscape. These matters have been discussed in the section on Farm buildings.

Issues

Afforestation is not generally a concern for those people from the community present at the focus meetings however a number of matters were raised regarding coniferous forests which are perceived to reduce biodiversity, damage eco-systems, block views and provide poor amenity for associated leisure activity. Clear felling was deemed to be a problem. It was generally considered that more sensitive planting including increased broadleaf trees would be an improvement, together with more protection for hedgerows and existing trees in the old demesnes and urban areas.

The following five guidelines, published by the Department of Agriculture are the mechanisms by which the Forest Service will ensure that the environmental aspects of Sustainable Forest Management are implemented. Adherence to the guidelines is a condition of grant aid and the issuing of a felling license.

1. Forestry and the Landscape Guidelines - Presented to ensure that all new plantations complement, rather than detract from, the landscape. The objectives of landscape design are introduced, together with a landscape character type approach. The forest cycle is outlined in terms of operations and their impact on the landscape. Also outlined are measures to mitigate adverse impacts and to enhance the overall landscape, involving shape, scale, diversity, visual force and unity. 2. Forestry and Water Quality Guidelines - Sensitive water catchment areas are defined and their management prescribed. Guidelines are given relating to the best forest management practices 3. to ensure the maintenance of high water quality. Recommendations are also made in relation to cultivation, drainage, fertilising and storage, the use of chemicals, herbicides and fuels, road- making, bridges and culverts, and harvesting. 4. Forestry and Archaeology Guidelines - Designed to ensure that Ireland’s rich heritage of archaeological sites and artifacts is not damaged by forest operations. They deal specifically with relevant legislation, sources of records of known archaeological sites, types of sites, protective measures to be employed, and contact details. 5. Forest Biodiversity Guidelines - To recognise the importance of the maintenance and enhancement of forest biodiversity, and implement the objectives in a forestry context of the National Biodiversity Plan. They describe a range of measures to conserve and enhance biodiversity in forests, such as species and structural diversity, retained habitats and open spaces, the retention of deadwood, the control of troublesome species such as rhododendron, and the use and conservation of native provenances. 6. Forest Harvesting and Environmental Guidelines - Produced to ensure that all forest harvesting operations, including felling, extraction, road and site restoration, are environmentally sustainable. They describe the impact of harvesting on water, forest soils, landscape, archaeological sites, forest health and vitality, and biodiversity, and lay down clear instructions to ensure best practice.

In all cases, reference to the Landscape Characterisation Assessment will be necessary in order to implement the guidelines. It should be noted that following the introduction of the Planning and Development (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations of 2011 that initial afforestation is now considered to be exempted development in planning terms with Planning Authorities only having a consultative role to the Department of Agriculture in this regard.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 23 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Response to Landscape Character

Roscommon’s landscape character varies considerably in regard to both landform and land cover. Any approach to forest landscape planning and design should therefore deal with the forest in the context of the surrounding landscape, as described in the Landscape Characterisation Assessment in section Four of this report.

The Forestry and Landscape Guidelines provide precise recommendations for various forest development scenarios and for four distinct landscape character types

‹ Rolling moorland, represented in County Roscommon by the Landscape Character Type of Hills and Uplands and Bogland. ‹ Rolling fertile farmland, represented by Wet Farmland, Dry Farmland, River Corridors. ‹ Drumlins, represented by Drumlin Lakelands. ‹ Mountain and farmland complex, including Bog and Farmland Complex.

Planning and design criteria

Many of the concerns frequently raised relating the visual impact on landscape can be dealt with by sensitive design as outlined below.

Roadsides

Forests located very close to the roadside often present a continuous solid conifer wall. In order to provide visual variety and stimulation for road users, design along roadsides should aim to create a sequence of varying spaces and to provide views into the forest interior.

Blocking views along roadsides

A common criticism of forests along roadsides is that they block views of the surrounding landscape. This is particularly frustrating where there is a sense of the possibility of panoramic or attractive views, such as that experienced at the brow of a hill. In scenic areas or along Scenic Routes or at Scenic Views, it is therefore necessary to retain a reasonable number of views throughout the full forest rotation for the benefit of road users.

Water bodies

The same principles that apply to roadsides are also relevant to aquatic zones, including streams, rivers and lakes. An informal natural layout and the inclusion of native riparian trees also play a major role in promoting aquatic ecosystems. (See Forestry and Water Quality Guidelines regarding the creation and appropriate treatment of associated buffer zones.)

Houses

Houses and other buildings such as churches and schools can be visually isolated by forestry that is located too close.

‹ Planting should be kept 60 m from the site boundaries of dwellings and associated buildings. ‹ Set-back distance is most critical when a building is surrounded by forest on two sides or more. Where adjoining properties are 0.2 ha or less, it is recommended that planting be kept back 30 m from the property boundary. ‹ Wider edge spacing and the incorporation of lower growing broadleaves such as birch and rowan will

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 24 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

soften the forest edge. ‹ In the case of existing forests, the pruning and re-spacing of edge trees should be considered to allow more filtered light into the forest. ‹ Forest developers shall liaise with the owners of neighbouring properties, to resolve in advance any potential concerns.

Size

In some situations, forests are too small in relation to the scale of the surrounding landscape. Achieving successful integration of small plots presents a considerable challenge, particularly on open ground.

‹ Create a visual link with surrounding landscape elements. For example, a generous broadleaf margin of varying width and linked in with nearby hedgerows could be used. ‹ Shape the forest with projections and recesses which reflect the proportion of the surrounding landscape context.

Arrangement

Due to the pattern of land ownership in Ireland, forests on hill or mountain sites are often established as long narrow belts running uphill in isolation. Where a number of these are planted in close proximity, the resulting ‘ladder’ effect involving alternate strips of forest and open ground creates a disjointed landscape.

The ideal solution is to plant the land separating adjacent forests, i.e. to undertake forest infill. However, where such land does not become available for planting, establishing a relationship between the forest and unplanted ground becomes critical. This can be achieved through; pattern variation, e.g. by creating open spaces in the canopy and recesses along the edge; and consideration of margin, colour and texture, by using species which relate to the colours of the open ground, e.g. the colour of larch during the dormant season relates well to mountain landscape.

Location

Due to land ownership and/or site productivity, forests are sometimes located mid-slope on open mountainsides. Failure to visually connect such forests with other landscape features such as field boundaries, streams, gullies or rock outcrops creates the impression of the forests ‘sliding’ downhill.

This effect is further strengthened if the forest is lopsided or imbalanced on the mountain slope, as viewed from, for example, a public road or settlement.

Where possible, extend the plot in the direction of the above mentioned landscape features. It may also be necessary to consider pattern, proportion, edge and margin to directly relating the forest visually to its surrounds.

Shape

As with the above design factors, the shape of forests in Ireland has been primarily determined by land ownership. Given that fields or properties are invariably angular in outline, resulting forests often resemble ‘blocks’ on the landscape. This may create an adverse visual impact, particularly on open mountainsides.

The most effective solution is to break down the angular geometry of the forest plot through recessing and curving corners, leaving some areas unplanted and softening edges by incorporating ‘outliers’, i.e. outlying

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 25 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon groups and single trees. Angular shaped compartments defined by, for example, straight ridgelines, should also be avoided. Where possible, ridgelines should run along the contour and should not be in line with the main view.

Pattern

Due to lack of variation, forests sometimes resemble homogeneous ‘blankets’ in the landscape, without variation of pattern. Such forests can often conceal the underlying pattern of the ground surface produced by, for example, rock, vegetation and water. The creation of open spaces within the canopy is particularly important in the case of large forests on mountainsides. These open spaces might include attractive rocky outcrops, land incapable of supporting a commercial crop, or areas where planting is curtailed or undesirable, e.g. areas in the vicinity of aquatic zones and archaeological sites and monuments. If no such features exist to prompt variety of pattern, open spaces should still be created at locations where they will be easily perceived externally. Ensure that these open areas are large enough to enable their continued visibility as the forest matures. Plant a mixture of species carefully located throughout the canopy to reflect and highlight existing ground surface patterns.

Edge

Successful design of the forest edge is critical, particularly when viewed at close proximity from, for example, a road or house, or when located adjacent to an attractive feature such as a lake or river.

It is essential to avoid creating a solid forest ‘wall’ and to provide views into the interior. There are several ways of opening the forest edge.

‹ A diffuse edge can be created by pulling the forest back from the site boundary and by creating a zone of loosely scattered trees or ‘outliers’, using wide spacing and low growing species such as rowan and birch. ‹ The incorporation of particular species into the forest margin can also enhance edge appearance. For example, the inclusion of self-pruning or lightly branched conifers such as Scots pine or larch into the margin can be of great benefit, by increasing visibility into the stand.

Margin, Colour, Texture

Some forests, mainly in upland areas, are occasionally regarded as being monotonous, due to the lack of colour or textural variation of both the margin and the main forest body. The primary objective concerning margin, colour and texture is to introduce an appropriate level of species and age variation.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 26 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

SECTION 4: LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT STUDY

4.1 INTRODUCTION

In this section the results of the landscape assessment are presented both in map form as well as in written descriptions and guidance. The base maps that were created in a geographic information system (GIS) are first presented, including analysis of elevation and landform, land cover, nature designations, historical landscapes and wind speeds, followed by maps detailing the location of both landscape character types and landscape character areas as well as a classification of landscape value and a map indicating the location of Scenic Routes and Scenic Views (Appendix 1). In all, nine maps of the county are presented below, providing the basis for a thorough analysis of the landscapes of County Roscommon.

Following presentation of the above maps, an outline description of each of the landscape character areas has been prepared. These descriptions focus on the key characteristics of each landscape character area, followed by a discussion regarding landscape value and forces of change and culminating in proposing area specific recommendations. A photograph depicting the essential character of each area is also included as well as a key map to illustrate county context.

4.2 GIS ANALYSIS AND DESK STUDY MAPPING OF COUNTY ROSCOMMON

The initial appraisal of landscape in County Roscommon was completed through desk studies involving mostly GIS. This computerised mapping and analysis tool enables the preparation of base maps that give the landscape assessors a detailed impression of the aesthetic, natural and cultural qualities of landscape prior to engaging in field work. The key maps prepared as part of this study are described below.

Landform and Elevation

The map presented below entitled Landform and Elevation Map of Landscape Character Areas depicts a computer generated 3D model of the landform of County Roscommon overlaid with contours. The map summarises at a glance the key landform characteristics of the county including, for example, the following:

‹ Upland areas in the extreme northeast and northwest as well as a ridge of high ground in the mid-east region. ‹ Distinct rolling drumlin hills and Lakeland extending from the northeast in a southwesterly direction. ‹ Low lying areas and river corridors along the eastern and western boundaries. ‹ Elevated plateaus and low undulating hills located in the centre region. ‹ Finger-like esker ridges located mostly in the south of the county but also found in the northwest and the east.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 27 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 28 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Landcover

The elevation and landform map above presents what might be considered as the ‘skeleton’ of the landscape upon which the ‘skin’ or land cover is draped. An overview of the map entitled Landcover Map of Landscape Character Areas is included below and an overview of the key characteristics can be summarised as follows:

‹ In the center of the county landcover is predominantly dry grassland, reflecting for the most part the well draining pure limestone bedrock geology of the area. There are also patches of reclaimed blanket bog throughout, however, indicating that soil conditions are somewhat limiting in terms of crop production. ‹ The northwestern and northeastern landcover pattern is markedly different to that of the centre of the county, comprising a complex of mostly bogland (including raised bog and reclaimed raised bog) as well as wet grasslands. Similar landcover is found along the mid-east section of the county. These areas are clearly more marginal in terms of agricultural production and are a product of both landform as well as the underlying bedrock geology which includes muddy limestone as well as sandstones and mudstones. ‹ The river corridors defining the eastern, southern and western boundaries typically comprise a combination of extensive areas of bogland fringed by swaths of dry grassland.

Nature Designations

The wetland nature of landcover in Roscommon, comprising extensive bogs and lakes, creates a landscape of high nature value. There are several areas of NHA, cSAC and SPA throughout the county as can be seen in the map below entitled Nature Designations with Landscape Value of Character Areas. Not surprisingly, there is a strong correlation between this map and that of landcover with many of the bogland and wetland areas being designated for their natural heritage. Often there is a strong correlation between nature designations and overall landscape value as can be seen from the map presented.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 29 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 30 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 31 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Historical Landscapes

A map presenting an interpretation of the historical landscapes of County Roscommon is also presented in this section. A summary overview of this analysis is discussed below.

A total of thirteen historic land-use types were identified. Each type is characterised by its period of origin as well as its form and function. Historic Landscape Characterisation (HLC) brings to the fore the effect of human activity on the landscape and how people have interacted with and manipulated the natural environment. The emphasis is on the present day landscape character as created by human interaction and perception.

Towns/Villages (Early Medieval 4 th - 8th Century): The earliest towns in Ireland often grew up around monastic settlements. There are several examples of towns/villages in Roscommon that had early inception dates and formed proto-towns: Roscommon Town and Elphin.

Towns/Villages (Medieval 12th century – Modern): The concept of a true town was introduced by the Anglo-Normans. Extant medieval towns and villages in Roscommon county are: , Boyle, , Tulsk, Ballintober, Athleague, Termonbarry, Castlerea and Athlone.

Towns/Villages (Post-Medieval – Modern): These smaller urban areas owe their inception to the Plantation settlements of the 17 th century, the Estate towns of the 18 th century (e.g. Strokestown and ) and towns that developed during the 19 th century. Extant towns and villages from this period are: Keadew, Ballinameen, , , Arigna, Frenchpark, Ballaghaderreen, Loughglynn, Ballinalough, , , Strokestown, Lanesborough, , and .

Rectilinear Fields – Hedgerows (18 th – 19 th Centuries): This is the predominant historic landscape type in County Roscommon. These enclosed fields are typically rectangular or sub-rectangular in shape with relatively straight sides. The boundaries of these fields are made up of hedgerows with possible banks and ditches. This landscape was significantly remodeled by the work of the Congested Districts Board in the middle of the nineteenth century replacing the older, more informal clachan-and-rundale system. The result was the regimented ladder farms that we see today.

A clachan (or baile or ‘village’) was a nucleated group of farmhouses, with landholding organised communally (often on a townland basis and often with kinship ties). The houses were surrounded by the best possible land in the area known as the infield (a large open-field unenclosed and permanently cultivated). Outside of the infield was the outfield which would be poorer land and used as commonage. Many clachans were initiated in the 18 th century (due to population increases and the ability of the potato to grow in poor soils) but were probably even earlier.

Rectilinear Fields – Stone Walls (18 th – 19 th Centuries): There are several areas of the county where the material used to enclose the field systems are stone.

Rectilinear Fields – Hedgerows – Cutover Blanket Bogs (19 th – 20 th Centuries): Enclosed fields bounded by hedgerows on reclaimed upland wetland.

Rectilinear Fields – Hedgerows – Cutover Raised Bogs (19 th – 20 th Centuries): Enclosed fields bounded by hedgerows on reclaimed wetland.

Extractive Industries (17 th -20 th Centuries): These consist of commercial peat milling, iron and coal mining. The commercial peat milling has taken place in the 20 th century. The Arigna mine was originally in the 17 th century an iron mine but later on large coal seams were found.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 32 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Mature Forest (17 th -19 th Centuries): Woods that were possibly managed for timber production or as part of parkland of large estates. Mixed deciduous and coniferous species.

Coniferous Plantations (20 th Century): Trees planted as part of grant schemes or by Coillte.

Bogland (Prehistoric-Modern): Areas of bog with no visible evidence of peat extraction or land improvement. These areas often contain archaeological features with no above ground expression.

Rathcroghan, Carns, Tulsk (Late Prehistory, Early Medieval, Medieval): Settlement, ceremonial activities (inauguration site for Kings of Connaught), agricultural systems (elongated rectangular fields, dating to Early Medieval Period or earlier), roadways.

Demesnes (18 th -19 th Centuries): Lands held by a large house which incorporated farmland, gardens, woods and buildings. These include: Strokestown, Frenchpark, Rockingham, Mote Park, Kilronan Castle Demesne (NGR 188110, 312821) and Cootehall.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 33 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 34 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Wind Speeds

The Project Brief required consideration of planning issues concerning wind farm development in County Roscommon and throughout the detailed descriptions presented in Section 4.3 below, reference is made to potential for development in this regard. In order to ensure that recommendations are practicable in terms of commercial viability of wind farms, an analysis of average wind speeds was completed. In the map below entitled Wind Speed Map of Landscape Character Areas, all those locations with wind speeds of eight metres per second and above are highlighted. A summary of the key issues relating to this map is presented below:

‹ Not surprisingly windy areas tend to be concentrated on higher ground and ridges as discussed earlier under the landform and elevation map. ‹ There are very extensive areas of high wind speeds on what might be described as slightly elevated land in the middle of the county as well as in the northwest. ‹ The extensive bogland areas located along the river corridors on the eastern and western boundaries have very poor wind resource.

Note: See also wind speed map contained in the “Renewable Energy Strategy” document , Page 13.

Community Consultation Values

As detailed in Section 1 of this report, a number of community consultation focus group meetings took place in Roscommon during the early part of this project. As a medium for identifying those locations of value to the people of Roscommon, the consultees engaged in a mapping exercise highlighting special places. A sample map annotated by one of the groups is included below for the purpose of illustration. This exercise proved most valuable in terms of highlighting landscape issues of concern and interest to local people.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 35 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 36 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Community Landscape Values, one of many maps produced during the public consultation workshops

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 37 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

4.3 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND VALUES MAPPING

Following completion of a detailed GIS and desk study analysis of the County Roscommon landscapes, coupled with the community consultation focus group meetings, the consultants prepared the following three key maps which are presented and discussed below:

‹ Landscape Character Types ‹ Landscape Character Areas ‹ Landscape Value

Landscape Character Types

Landscape Character Types are distinct landscapes that are relatively consistent in character. They are generic in nature in that they may occur in different areas in different parts of the county, but wherever they occur they broadly share similar combinations of geology, topography, drainage patterns, vegetation, historical land use and settlement pattern. In County Roscommon seven landscape character types have been identified and mapped, as follows:

‹ River Corridor (located along eastern and western boundaries); ‹ Hills and Upland (mostly located in the north of the county but also including relatively confined areas in the middle and west); ‹ Drumlin Lakelands (concentrated in the northeast); ‹ Bogland (located throughout including along river corridors as well as in the east and northwest); ‹ Wet Farmland (concentrated in the northern half of the county); ‹ Dry farmland (located in the middle of the county stretching from north to south); and ‹ Bog and Farmland Complex (located in the south and middle of the county highlighting the interface between wetter and drier land).

Landscape Character Areas

Landscape Character Areas are unique, geographically-specific areas of a particular landscape type. Each has its own individual character and identity, even though it shares the same generic characteristics with other areas of the same type. This distinction is reflected in the naming of types and areas: landscape character types have generic names, but landscape character areas take on the names of specific places.

In total, 36 landscape character areas have been identified and mapped in County Roscommon. They are each described in detail in Section 4.4 below.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 38 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 39 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 40 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Landscape Values

The landscape values map presented below classifies each of the landscape character areas into one of the following four classes:

‹ Exceptional Value ‹ Very High Value ‹ High Value ‹ Moderate Value.

There are two Landscape Character Areas classified as of Exceptional Value, namely the Tulsk and Rathcroghan Plateau in the centre of the county (LCA 28) and the Lough Key and Boyle River Network in the northeast of the county (LCA 16). Classification of the former area is greatly influenced by the cultural heritage significance of Rathcroghan, whereas the latter area is valued for its aesthetic and amenity qualities.

The Shannon System running along the eastern boundary of the county has been classified as of Very High Value, along with Boyle and Curlew Mountains (LCA 17) and the Arigna Mountains (LCA 14) and Lough Meelagh Drumlins (LCA 15) located in the northeast. The Shannon System is of high aesthetic and ecological quality and the other upland areas provide important scenic amenities.

The River Suck corridor running along the western boundary of the county is judged to be of High Value due to its amenity, ecological and aesthetic qualities. The Castlerea Raised Bogland (LCA 27) is valued for its tranquility as well as ecological importance, the Roscommon Town Hinterland (LCA 32) for its cultural heritage significance and Skrine Hill and Limestone Pavement (LCA 33) for its unusual geology.

All of the remaining landscape character areas have been classified as of Moderate Value.

None of the landscape character areas are of Low Value.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 41 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 42 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

4.4 DETAILED LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT

In the following section each of the 36 landscape character areas are described in qualitative terms highlighting key characteristics regarding landform, landcover and overall image. The rationale for the classification of Landscape Value in each area is explained and the primary forces of change are summarised in order to draw attention to current and future influences on the character, quality and value of that landscape. Lastly, key recommendations are proposed for each landscape character area concerning the tolerance or otherwise for change from various development kinds.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 43 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 1: Lough Allen and Arigna foothills

Key Characteristics looking west up to the Arigna Mountains from the road. The Lough Allen and Arigna Foothills character area is in the very north of the county and represents the northern extreme of the Shannon system which flows from this location along the eastern boundary of County Roscommon as far as Shannon Bridge in the south. This LCA stretches from the Arigna River in the south to the border with County Sligo in the north. The area forms a distinctly flat region between the Arigna Mountains and Lough Allen. The land cover is predominantly peat bog and moorland, however there are areas of marginal farmland as well as small pockets of good quality arable land. The main regional road, the R280, runs north-south through the area, close to the shoreline of Lough Allen. There are very few other roads in the area. While the R280 is classified as a Scenic Route views to the east across the Lough Allen to are currently intermittent and typically blocked completely due to overgrown vegetation along the shoreline. It is possible to see Slieve Anierin to the east over the screening vegetation and there are extensive views

The overall image of the character area is a quiet, sparsely populated broad valley defined by high mountains overlooking a very large lake.

Landscape Value

The Lough Allen and Arigna Foothills character area is classified as of Very High Value due its scenic setting and the fishing and boating amenity offered by Lough Allen. There is a designated Scenic Route which runs along the R280 from its junction with the R285 in the south as far as the county boundary to the north. The rich industrial archaeological heritage in the upland areas to the west of Lough Allen is visible from this character area and therefore is part of the experience to be had in this low lying landscape. There are no nature designations visible from this LCA and so it is not regarded as especially sensitive from a natural heritage perspective.

Forces of Change

The obstruction of views by overgrown scrub around Lough Allen and the toe of Slieve Anierin to the east is the main threat to the landscape quality of this LCA. The majority of this vegetation comprises broadleaf scrub which has grown naturally in the area both along hedgerows as well as along the shoreline.

This landscape is also likely to be a popular target for single rural dwellings given the lakeside amenities and views on offer. This would undermine the visual quality and devalue its scenic quality.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 44 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• The quality of views on offer from the Scenic Route would be greatly enhanced by the selective thinning and removal of heaving screening vegetation located between the R280 and the shoreline. It should be an objective of the Council to explore opportunities with the local landowners for the thinning and removal of heavy screening in this area in order to re establish the scenic views across Lough Allen. • An increase in single rural housing and associated traffic would undermine the tranquil lake shore amenity of Lough Allen and it is recommended that development be prohibited between the scenic route and Lough Allen to avoid the potential for pollution of the water, blocking views of the lake or creating adverse impacts on the overall character of the area. Where essential housing is required this should be directed to the west of the scenic route if it can be demonstrated that the design and landscaping will not negatively impact on the receiving landscape.

Views of Lough Allen are substantially screened by vegetation from the R280

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 45 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 2: Upper Shannon and Derreenannagh Drumlin Belt

Key Characteristics creeping into the area. A large portion of the southern part of the character area is This area stretches northwest from the border of designated a Natural Heritage Area (NHA). , at Carrick-on-Shannon, to a hill at Ballytormoyle. The upper Shannon forms the eastern boundary and the western boundary is determined by the zone of theoretical visibility from the river. The landform of the area is of low undulating drumlins flanking the River Shannon as it emerges from the southern tip of Lough Allen. There is one larger hill located at Ballyformoyle, rising to a height of 153m ASL. The other principal river is the Feorish River which drains Lough Skean in the west to the River Shannon in the east. The land cover is a complex mix of transitional woodland scrub, raised bog, fens and marginal farmland. The diversity of landcover in the LCA is one of the greatest among all the character areas studied in the county. The road network is comprised of mainly small rural roads with some third class roads and only one regional road, the R284, linking Leitrim Town in the south east to the village of Keadew in the north. While there are no major settlements in this character area, there are a number of towns just outside the boundaries (Leitrim Town to the east and Carrick-on- Shannon to the south) from which development is

The overall image of this character area is one of a sparsely populated wooded drumlin landscape sloping down to the Upper Shannon.

Landscape Value

The Upper Shannon and Derreenannagh Drumlin Belt is considered to be of Very High Value as it forms part of the River Shannon corridor which is popular with both water based and land based tourists. Strategically, this stretch of the River Shannon is a very important node for inland navigation in Ireland as it connects Lough Allen, the Shannon Erne Link canal, the Lough Key waterways and the whole Shannon system to the south. The sparsely populated landscape offers tranquility for pleasure craft users.

Forces of Change

The main forces of change in the landscape are farm marginalisation which typically leads to downgrading of the quality of the farmland, as well as increasing single rural dwelling development pressure along roads approaching towns and villages. Poor siting and design of individual houses along the River Shannon corridor could also have a negative visual impact on the amenity of the upper River Shannon. Ribbon development along the R284 and also along the road leading into the village of Cootehall (located in LCA 16 to the west) erodes the tranquil character of the rural landscape. Given the extent of wet grassland in this LCA, there may be increased afforestation of coniferous plantations in the future.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 46 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• There are no elevated viewpoints in this character area which is typical of most drumlin landscapes as roads tend to travel on lower ground winding their way between the hills. Views of drumlin landscapes are rare. It should be an objective of the council to assess where views occur of this Drumlin landscape and identify which are especially representative of that landscape character type.

• There is also a trend generally in the county that single rural dwellings are positioned overlooking lakes and rivers. This trend can erode the visual quality for tourists using waterway amenities and could have a negative impact on the tourism economy and the scenic reputation of the river corridor . Any applications for development located on the shoreline of lakes and river corridors should include a Visual Impact Statement . Regard should be had to The Heritage Council’s Waterways Corridor Study 18 . This includes objectives supporting this recommendation, for example “Maintain and preserve the aesthetic value of the waterways and its shoreline from the impacts of dispersed and highly visible inappropriate development and discourage speculative development” (Strategic Aim 6.2.1, Objective No. 2).

• In this character area there are views of Slieve Anierin to the north and Sheemore Hill to the north east from Hartley Bridge. Such views create a sense of place and should be protected. It is recommended that it be an objective of the council to protect views from bridges.

Hartley Bridge set in the drumlin wetland

18 Waterways Corridor Study, The Heritage Council (2005)

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 47 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 3: Lough Corry Drumlin Basin

Key Characteristics this LCA, the town of Carrick-on-Shannon spills over the Shannon River into the northeastern The Lough Corry Drumlin Basin is in the north east of corner and brings with it both residential and the county. The southern and western boundaries of commercial development. this LCA are formed by a zone of theoretical visibility created by a series of drumlins which also mark a change in elevation between neighbouring character areas. The majority of this area drains north and northeastwards into Lough Corry and River Shannon. The drainage pattern reflects the general alignment of drumlins which are arranged on a southwest to northeast alignment. The predominant land cover is dry grassland but there are areas of wet grassland as well as reclaimed blanket bog throughout. The latter two land cover types are typically found in the drumlin flats and hollows. Hedgerows comprise mostly broadleaf species including ash. In some areas there is a strong sense of openness created by loose light hedgerows. This drumlin landscape is well drained and relatively dry compared to the drumlin landscapes found both to the north and south. The road network throughout the area is quite dense with a mix of national (N4 linking Boyle and Carrick- on-Shannon), regional (R370 and R368), local class and lanes. While there are no large settlements in

The overall image of this LCA is of a relatively well drained drumlin farmland, with strong tourist amenities along the River Shannon including Lough Corry.

Landscape Value

The Lough Corry Drumlin Basin is classified as Very High Value to reflect the boating, fishing and scenic amenities along the River Shannon. It is valued by tourists for its peaceful and largely undeveloped condition.

Forces of Change

Inappropriate and poorly sited development on the shoreline of Lough Corry and along the River Shannon would have a negative visual and environmental impact on the wetland landscape. There is increasing development pressure along the R370 leading into Carrick-on-Shannon which is contributing to the erosion of the rural character of the area. Unchecked ribbon development along the R368 and other local roads connecting to Carrick-on-Shannon could have a comparable adverse impact. Increasingly marginalised farmland could also lead to a gradual down grading of the visual quality of the landscape.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 48 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• It is important to protect the visual amenities in the immediate vicinity of the Shannon system. However, in this LCA the drumlins located in the middle and to the west are less sensitive to development generally because views do not extend from the Shannon River or Lough Corry. In other words, the depth of view is shallow and there would be greater tolerance of development generally with increasing distance from the wetland landscape. Therefore it is recommended that only those planning applications within the immediate visual catchment of the Shannon system will require a Visual Impact Statement.

Elevated view over the well drained drumlin landscape

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 49 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 4: Kilglass Drumlin Lakelands

Key Characteristics landcover. There are no major settlements in the area and the closest one outside the area This character area is located on the eastern is Strokestown to the south. There is a dense boundary of County Roscommon in the northern half network of mostly local roads nestled into the of the county. It is defined by a ridge of high ground rolling landscape. Kilglass Lake serves boating in the south, the Shannon and a series of lakes, the and fishing enthusiasts and includes a marina largest of which is Lough Bo Berg, to the east and with pleasure boats. north and by a cluster of three hills to the west. The area comprises low undulating drumlins which are well drained in the north and interspersed with a number of large lakes, the largest being Kilglass Lake, in the south. The drumlins are aligned on a northeast southwest axis and this arrangement determines the pattern of lakes in the greater area. The lakes fan out from east to west similar to fingers extending into the rolling drumlin landscape. The effect of this pattern of lake and hill is unique in the context of the county. Land cover comprises mostly dry grassland and reclaimed blanket bog with patches of raised bog on lower ground, with the higher ground on the southern ridge covered mostly in wet grassland as well as some areas of conifer forest. Many of the small hills defining Kilglass Lake are covered in broadleaf woodland cover. This landscape character area is thus complex, both from a landform perspective as well as considering

The image of this landscape character area is of a drowned and dramatic drumlin lakeland and floodplain offering a tranquil boating amenity.

Landscape Value

The Kilglass Drumlin Lakeland area is considered to be of Very High Value due to it its tourist amenities including fishing, boating and extensive scenic views. The only regional road, the R371, is located in the south of the LCA and provides elevated and panoramic views over Kilglass Lakes as far as Slieve Anerin and the Arigna Mountains in the distance. A section of this road is proposed as a Scenic Route. Another Scenic Route is proposed further north in a low lying area along a local road and provides a closer view of Kilglass Lake, its wetland and a marina. This LCA is thus highly visually sensitive. The whole of Kilglass Lake is designated an NHA, increasing its sensitivity regarding natural heritage.

Forces of Change

The area is of very high visual amenity and thus tends to attract considerable interest in people wishing to build single rural dwellings. There are several locations where houses have been built in the recent past overlooking the lakes and this trend is likely to continue unless measures are put in place to afford greater protection to the landscape. There is also likely to be an increase in the extent of afforestation in this landscape due to the marginal quality of farmland. The N5 is due to be realigned over a 32 kilometer length and therefore it may be anticipated that there will be increased demand for quarrying in the area.

In terms of quarrying, there is a very large deep-excavation type quarry in operation on hills to the west but this does not create a significantly adverse impact on the quality of view from either of the Scenic Routes .

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 50 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• Development of any kind between the Scenic Routes and the lakeland landscape beyond should be discouraged due to the quality of views that are available and objective adopted to prohibit development on the lake side of the Scenic Route. • Furthermore, applications for single rural dwellings located on the opposite side of the road should include a Visual Impact Statement which will ensure maximum visual integration into their surrounds with a strong emphasis on screening, landscaping and use of natural materials and finishes. • The rock cutting that exists on the hill to the west at Greywood Hill is part of the local landscape character. However, where further applications for quarrying arise decisions should have regard to national quarrying guidelines 19 including potential impact on the landscape.

View from the the elevated R371

19 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines “Environmental Management in the Extractive Industry: Non-Scheduled Minerals”

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 51 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 5: Slieve Bawn and Feorish Bogland Basin

Key Characteristics spreads northwards along the main regional road, the R371, and along a third class road at Slieve Bawn and Feorish Bogland Basin is one of the the foothills of Slieve Bawn. The settlement largest character areas in the county stretching from pattern associated with the village of Roosky, Lanesborough in the south to Lough Bo Derg in the County Leitrim, spills over the River Shannon north. Slieve Bawn forms the western edge from into the northeastern corner of the LCA. where the landform gently slopes eastward draining into low lying bogland where it meets the eastern boundary defined by the meandering Shannon. The mountain is one of the highest ridges in the county, peaking at 262m ASL and creates strong visual separation between the Shannon River and the remainder of the county in this area. Higher ground is predominantly covered in wet grassland with extensive areas of coniferous plantation as well as transitional woodland scrub. The lower region, occupying most of this landscape character area, is made up of cutover raised bog, most of which has been commercially harvested. Elevated views from Slieve Bawn to the east are of a highly mechanised landscape of commercial peatland and the peat burning electricity plant in the distance at Lanesborough. Although much of the land in the area remains sparsely populated and isolated there is a broad network of roads leading into the cutover bog. The main settlement in the area is the village of Lanesborough from where ribbon development

The image of the area is of mechanised peatland landscape of low lying cutover bog contained between the River Shannon and a ridge of high forested ground.

Landscape Value

The Slieve Bawn and Feorish Bogland Basin is considered to be Very High Value. This LCA is one of the most varied in the entire county, comprising a major waterway, extensive bogland and forest upland. These elements are valuable amenity resources for locals and visiting tourists. The upland area is considered valuable for its potential as a walking route offering extended views across the adjoining low lying landscape. The commercially cut bog is also considered valuable as a tourist amenity not least for its potential as a walking route but also because it is an isolated and tranquil place. There are plans for development involving the local community for an extensive nature park in this area.

In terms of natural heritage, the lake in the north of the LCA is designated an NHA, Lough Forbes in the east is designated an NHA, SAC and a SPA and an area of bog in the south of the character area is designated an NHA and an SAC. The River Shannon provides a valuable amenity for water based activities.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 52 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Forces of Change

The bogland in this area has an industrial character in parts with a view of Lanesborough in the distance, which gives it a strong sense of place. This is at risk from inappropriate built development and should be protected. The continued use of peat for generating electricity is unlikely in the future as pressure increases both nationally and internationally for greater use of renewable energy sources such as wind, biomass and hydroelectric. There is potential for this landscape to revert to its original bogland state.

There is likely to be an increase in the number of houses built in the area as there have been a number of houses recently built on Slieve Bawn looking east over the bogland and River Shannon in the distance. These can detract from the landscape quality. Several houses have been built along the R371.

Key Recommendations

• The industrial land use of the area is an integral part of the landscape character and the development of wind energy projects would be acceptable from a landscape perspective on the ridge of Slieve Bawn. There are existing infrastructural services associated with the powerstation at Lanesborough which could accommodate national grid connection for future wind turbines. There are also sufficient wind resources in this area to make it commercially viable. Applications for wind turbines should be considered with regard to the national planning guidelines for wind farms.

View of the extensive bogland area north of the R63

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 53 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 6: Upper Lough Ree Bogland

Key Characteristics the R63 heading west from Lanesborough with the feature of interest being Lough Ree. Upper Lough Ree Bogland character area extends from the N63 and Lanesborough village in the north to the Hind River in the south. It is one of the flattest areas in the county with the western boundary delineated by the zone of theoretical visibility from Lough Ree. The area is predominantly covered in raise bog, fens and marginal farmland with transitional woodland scrub and coniferous plantation in places. There are no major settlements in this character area and the road network consists of only third class and smaller roads. As a result this character area is very sparsely populated. Vast tracts of the area come under NHA and SAC designations and the entire shoreline of Lough Ree is designated as an SPA. Although the area is not elevated the open character of the bogland landscape affords an extended viewshed towards Lough Ree and it’s islands. There is a designed Scenic Route located on

The overall image of this character area is of an isolated flat bogland bordering an extensive lake of high nature value.

Landscape Value

The Upper Lough Ree Bogland character area is of Very High Value because of its nature designations and the sense of isolation. This is a landscape of contrasting scales and variations of enclosure. Views are intimate and enclosed in areas of birch woodland, while vast expansive views open up close to the shores of Lough Ree.

Forces of Change

The urban edge of Lanesborough is gradually extending westwards along the R63. If development continued in this direction, the quality of the view over Lough Ree would be severely compromised. Given the extensive nature designations, the open landscape and the limited amount of development in the area, including road infrastructure, most types of built development would have a negative impact on the character of the area.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 54 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• There should be an objective to prohibit development between the designated Scenic View on the R63 and Lough Ree in recognition of the high value of open views and sense of isolation across this landscape. • This high quality landscape would provide a valuable resource for low-impact passive tourism, including walking trails and cycling routes. It is recommended that a study investigating the possibility of providing access to the lake shore from such routes be carried out.

Designated Scenic View from the edge of Lanesborough over Lough Ree in the mist

View of the edge of Lough Ree defined by bright grasses and heathers

View of the floodplain of Lough Ree with shipwrecked trees and rushy edge

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 55 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 7: Mid Lough Ree Pastureland

Key Characteristics network is made up of the N61, which runs diagonally through the area linking Athlone in The Mid Lough Ree Pastureland character area the south with Roscommon Town in the north. extends from the Hind River in the north to just The remaining roads are mostly third class in north of Hudson's Bay. Its western boundary is status. There are no major settlements in the formed by the hills to the east of Lough Funshinagh area outside the villages of Knockcroghery and which drain in an easterly direction down to the . shores of Lough Ree. The shoreline of Lough Ree is defined by secluded bays dotted with small marinas and harbours, as well as peninsulas, the most important of which is Warren Point on which is located the medieval site of Rhindoon. The extensive broadleaved forest of St. John’s Wood is situated on the headland at Blackbrink Bay. Although the island of Inchenagh is in County Longford, it forms part of the viewshed over Lough Ree. Dry grassland is the predominant land cover as this area is very well drained. There is also a strong stone wall character to this landscape, especially in the vicinity of Knockcroghery. There are also extensive patches of wet grassland located mostly in the floodplain of the lake as well as areas of reclaimed bog running along the centre of a shallow valley running north. There is an esker situated between the Dublin-Galway railway track and the road south of the village of Lecarrow. The entire shoreline of Lough Ree is designated as an NHA, SPA and SAC. The road

The overall image of the Mid Lough Ree Pastureland character area is one of gently rolling good quality farmland with extensive views of Lough Ree and its islands in more elevated places.

Landscape Value

The Mid Lough Ree Pastureland character area is of Very High Value due to it’s nature designations, good quality farmland landscape and extensive lake views as well as built heritage including windmill, church and graveyard and the canal connecting the village of Lecarrow and Blackbrink Bay as well as the medieval site at Rhindoon. There are two designated Scenic Views on tops of hills which provides panoramic views overlooking Lough Ree, one at Killeenrevagh and the other at Lissanisky.

Forces of Change

Overall this is quite a stable farmland landscape. Despite the network of roads and availability of good quality land the density of built development is quite low and housing is dispersed. However, if this situation were to change and the demand for development was to significantly increase, the sensitive landscapes along the shore of Lough Ree would be vulnerable and existing Scenic Views from elevated locations could be lost.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 56 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• It should be an objective of the council that development along the shores of Lough Ree should be prohibited in order to protect the visual amenity and the natural habitats of the lake.

• In recognition of the high value of open views across this landscape it should be an objective of the council that applications for development on the lake side of Scenic Views should be accompanied by a Visual Impact Statement .

• The Rhindoon peninsula and associated bays are highly sensitive and applications for development within this area should also be accompanied by a Visual Impact Statement recognising the high value of this cultural landscape.

• There is a distinct sense of elevation on the high hills in the west of this LCA which could be further enhanced by the kinetic form of wind turbines. Wind speeds in excess of eight metres per second would make wind energy commercially viable. Applications for wind farms should be assessed with regard to the national guidelines.

Panoramic view overlooking Lough Ree from Killeenrevagh

Distant view of Lough Ree from high ground at Lissanisky

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 57 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 8: Lower Lough Ree and Athlone Environs

Key Characteristics towards Ballinasloe in . The main development pressure from Athlone The Lower Lough Ree and Athlone Environs spreads westward along the R362. character area stretches southwards from Hodson Bay to north of the village of Cornafulla. The western boundary is delineated by the zone of visibility from the River Shannon. This low lying area is predominantly made up of dry grassland and raised bog, most of which is reclaimed, as well smaller pockets of wet grassland and wetland. There is a large coniferous plantation just west of Athlone Town. Two esker ridges run through the area, one running in a northerly direction towards the Hudson’s Bay peninsula, the other running in a westerly direction from just outside of Athlone Town, part of which is currently a mineral extraction site. The former esker remains in a very intact form whereas the latter as been substantially altered due to encroachment of development. Although this character area is adjacent to Athlone Town (in neighbouring Westmeath) the amount of road infrastructure is quite low with the N61 running diagonally northward linking Athlone with Roscommon Town and the N6 heading southwest

The overall image of the Lower Lough Ree and Athlone Environs character area is of a peri-urban lakeshore area experiencing increasing development pressure.

Landscape Value

The Lower Lough Ree and Athlone Environs character area is of Very High Value reflecting the presence of the Shannon river corridor. The public consultation identified an area of Beech woodland just north of Athlone to be as valuable. Much of the shoreline of the area is designated as an NHA, SAC and SPA.

Forces of Change

Development pressure is evident along the shores of Lough Ree north and south of Athlone town along the Shannon Callows, as well as along the small roads leading into the Callows. This is of concern not least because of the potential negative impact on the ecology of the flood plain, but also because of the negative impact such development will have on the visual amenity on the Shannon river corridor.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 58 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• It should be an objective of the council that development along the shores Lough Ree and the River Shannon south of Athlone should be prohibited in order to protect the visual amenity and the natural habitats of the water corridor.

The harbour and hotel amenity at Hodson Bay

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 59 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 9: Cloonown and Shannon Callows

Key Characteristics across the River Shannon into adjoining counties. One view is of a particularly high This landscape character area is located on the esker in County Offaly, at Clonmacnoise. southern tip of County Roscommon and is the flattest character area in the county. It is made up of mostly raised bog, a lot of which is a mix of reclaimed and cutover bog, as well as dry grassland along the shoreline with small patches of wet grassland in places. The western boundary is defined by the location where the River Suck and River Shannon join at Shannonbridge and by the only major road in the area (the R357). There is a very loose network of regional roads leading down into the Callows (grassland flooded in winter). Many of the smaller roads leading into the raised bog were built to remain above the water level in times of flooding, creating a causeway effect in winter months. In places an increasing number of dwellings backing onto the River Shannon is evident. Land along the banks of the River Shannon is protected by a number of nature designations. An esker ridge runs in an east west direction through Cornaveagh . A number of Scenic Views provide extended vistas

Landscape Value

The Cloonown and Shannon Callows is of Very High Value due to its flood plain habitat and unique ecology. Its flat landform affords extended views from the River Shannon across the raised bogland landscape.

Forces of Change

The scenic views along the Shannon waterway are important to protect from poorly sited dwellings, farm buildings and other types of development. Building development along roads may also pose a risk to the water quality and associated habitats as flooding can reach right up to the road side in winter months.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 60 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• It should be an objective of the council to prohibit further development in low lying areas of the callows in order to protect the water quality and habitats of this very sensitive landscape.

View of the Shannon callows to the left of the road showing the flood water reaching into a submerged field on the right

View to the south west across the River Shannon showing an esker ridge in County Offaly

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 61 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 10: Suck River Source and Lough O'Flynn Boglands

Key Characteristics

Situated in the north west of the county, the Suck River Source and Lough O'Flynn Boglands character area is a low undulating complex mix of mostly raised bog and fens which drain into the meandering River Suck, creating a subtle ‘valley’ running in an east west direction. Lough O’Flynn, the source of the River Suck, is well known for its fishing and boating amenity. There are a number of nature designations throughout the area. There are no major settlements in the area and apart from the N60 the road network is very light comprising mainly of third class and other smaller roads. There is a Scenic Route overlooking Lough O’Flynn, as well as Scenic Views from the lake shore. A ridge of eskers runs in an east west direction just north of the River Suck and a quarry is located very close to the south western shore of Lough O’Flynn.

The overall image of the Suck River Source and Lough O'Flynn Boglands character area is of a sparsely populated wetland bogland landscape.

Landscape Value

The Suck River Source and Lough O'Flynn Boglands character area is of High Value due to its quiet wetland landscape offering fishing, boating and walking amenities. The scenic views around Lough O’Flynn are valued and should be protected from inappropriate development, especially along its shoreline.

Forces of Change

At present the area is very sparsely populated. However there is evidence of increasing development pressure around Lough O’Flynn. As this area has two designated scenic views (both of which overlook Lough O’Flynn), as well as nature designations, further increased development could have a negative impact on the visual and ecological amenity of the Lakeland.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 62 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• It should be an objective of the council that applications for development along the shores of Lough O’Flynn should be accompanied by a Visual Impact Statement in order to protect the visual amenity of the lake. • Design should have special regard to rural design guidelines being prepared by the council. Careful attention should be paid to the use of materials and colour. A natural stone colour would be preferred. Native tree planting should be used to soften the impact of ridgelines against the sky in this low lying area.

View across Lough O’Flynn illustrating the impact of brightly coloured and poorly screened housing in contrast with housing that is more natural in colour and surrounded by trees.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 63 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 11: Castlerea and Upper Suck Valley

Key Characteristics

Situated in the west of the county the eastern boundary of the Castlerea and Upper Suck Valley character area is defined by a subtle ridgeline which gently slopes and drains west into the Suck River. The area stretches from Castlerea in the north to Derryhippo River, just south of the village of Dunamon. The predominant land cover is dry grassland in elevated places with raised and reclaimed bog in low lying areas. Conifer plantations occur in pockets in the north and south of the area. The main settlements are Castlerea and Ballintober village. While built development appears to be evenly spread in the area there is increasing ribbon expansion along the third class road leading into the villages of Ballintober and Dunamon. The N60 cuts diagonally through the area linking Castlerea and Roscommon Town.

The overall image of the Castlerea and Upper Suck Valley character area is of a gently undulating dry grassland farmland with the River Suck winding its way through to create a subtle river valley.

Landscape Value

The Castlerea and Upper Suck Valley character area is of High Value reflecting its river corridor landscape type and associated ecology and habitats. The Suck Valley Way provides quiet walking amenities much valued by local people.

Forces of Change

An increase in built development along the River Suck and the Suck Valley Way could adversely impact on the tranquil amenity which is the most significant feature in this landscape area, thus undermining the potential economy of walking tourism.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 64 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• Where applications arise for development including alternative rural enterprise buildings and tourist facilities, regard should be paid to design guidelines to limit the impact on the landscape.

View of Dunamon Castle from a bridge crossing on the River Suck

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 65 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 12: Athleague and Lower Suck Valley

Key Characteristics concentration along these roads leading into Athleague and the villages of , Dysert The western edge of the Athleague and Lower and (north of Ballinasloe). Suck Valley character area is bounded by the River Suck while its eastern boundary is delineated by an elevated ridge line as far east as Skrine Hill. It is the longest character area in the county extending from the village of Castlecoote in the north to the N6 in the south. The land form gently undulates from the north to south petering into flat low land where it meets the flood plains of the Suck Callows east of Ballinasloe in County Galway. Dry grassland dominates the elevated regions in the north, while raised bog and reclaimed bog, as well as wet grassland, occur in the lowlands in the south. There is a proposed Scenic View just south of Castlecoote with extended views overlooking the Suck River and farmland valley. There are nature designations all along the Suck River. The R357 and R363 are the main regional roads, and although built development is generally evenly spread in the area there is an increase in

The overall image of this character area is of a gently undulating dry grassland farmland with the River Suck winding its way through creating a subtle valley.

Landscape Value

The Athleague and Lower Suck Valley character area is of High Value reflecting its river corridor landscape type with associated ecology and habitat.

Forces of Change

This is generally an area where change has been and is likely to be a gentle and gradual process. Alternative rural enterprise is the most likely trend to emerge in this area.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 66 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

• Where any applications arise for development they should be assessed against this rural character with a view to protecting landscape values.

View of Suck River from bridge in village of Athleague

View from the outskirts of Castlecoote overlooking the gentle Suck River Valley

‘La Tene’ stone at Castlestrange

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 67 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 13: Suck Callows

Key Characteristics

The Suck Callows character area is in the very southwestern tip of the county. Dry grassland in the north drains southward into large areas of raised bog and reclaimed raised bog and into the southern boundary of the River Suck. This southern boundary becomes a floodplain in the wetter months known as the Suck Callows. An esker ridgeline running in an east west direction forms a border between the dry grassland and the wetter areas of raised bog. There are very few roads and no major settlement in the LCA, however the R357 cuts through diagonally linking Ballinasloe in County Galway with Shannonbridge in County Offaly and it is along this route that ribbon development is evident. Large tracks of the Callows are designated as an NHA and SPA.

The overall image of the Suck Callows character area is of a farming and bogland landscape, a significant portion of which is flooded in winter months.

Landscape Value

The Value of this LCA is High. When flooded in winter the Suck River and adjoining raised bogs become a valuable habitat for wintering birds. This habitat is further supported by the tranquility of the area because it is sparsely populated and there are very few roads.

Forces of Change

An increase in built development in this LCA could have a negative impact on water quality and the tranquility of the area and therefore undermine the nature designations in place. There are a number of existing small fishing lodges set well away from the shoreline hidden in hedgerows and trees. These had a very low impact on the landscape in contrast with the type of holiday home generally applied for in more recent times.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 68 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendation

• It should be an objective of the council to protect the designated areas along the River Suck and the callows from inappropriate development.

View from elevated ground over the Suck Callows

View of the River Suck close to where it connects to the River Shannon at Shannonbridge

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 69 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 14: Arigna Mountains

Key Characteristics The mountain moorland crest of Kilronan is designated as NHA. This is one of the most elevated character areas in County Roscommon, adjoining County Sligo to the north. The character area comprises rolling ridges sloping steeply to lower ground at Lough Allen. Land cover comprises a mix of mountain moorland, exposed rock, marginal farmland and coniferous forests. There are scattered and clustered homesteads on lower elevations and a wind farm on higher ground. There are a number of designated Scenic Routes and Scenic Views in the area, providing an elevated panorama of rolling farmland down to Lough Allen. Another elevated panoramic view takes in extended views of the drumlin landscape further south towards the Kilglass lakelands. Located on the southern side of Kilronan Mountain, this view provides an elevated panoramic vista to the south west over Lough Skean and Lough Meelagh. Ribbon development occurs along the more elevated regional roads over looking Lough Allen, particularly between the two mountain peaks.

The image is one of a rugged mountain steeped in mining history and providing some of the best views in the county.

Landscape Value

The Arigna Mountains have been classified as of Very High Value because they provide elevated views to the east over Lough Allen and are popular with tourists not least for their rich archaeological heritage and the visitor centre at the disused Arigna Mines. The Miner’s Way walking route is a valuable tourist attraction taking in lower and higher ground, the Arigna Mines Experience and views of the area.

Forces of Change

Continued ribbon development in the ‘view side’ of the Scenic Routes and Scenic Views, as listed above, will undermine the designations and have a negative visual impact on the landscape and its attractiveness for visitors. Insensitively positioned and brightly coloured housing development on lower ground is very visible from elevated places and impacts negatively on the quality of the viewshed.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 70 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Planning issues such as the capacity of local roads will provide a constraint on development. However where applications arise it should be an objective of the council to influence the design of new buildings to protect the scenic quality of the landscape including its historic industrialised image. The policy should be to require that new buildings comply with design guidelines. The issue in this character area would be the views from above. Where developments are not sympathetically integrated into the countryside, for example the early 20 th century council estate near Derreenavoggy, they detract from the quality of the view. It should be possible to achieve a more sympathetically integrated scheme by having regard to the choice of colour and materials, boundary treatment, site location and soft landscaping.

Extended panorama from the Arigna Mountains to the north east overlooking Lough Allen and Slieve Anierin

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 71 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 15: Lough Meelagh Drumlins

Key Characteristics below) which has naturally occurring birch woodland along its shoreline and extended views This undulating drumlin LCA is located in the to Kilronan in the far distance. north of the county and is a complex mix of raised bog, wet grassland, under storey forest and scrub, as well as large areas of mature forestry. Two large lakes dominate to the north, Lough Skean and Lough Meelagh and are connected by the Feorish River which continues east into the next LCA to link with the River Shannon. The R285 runs along the foot hills of Kilronan Mountain linking the villages of Keadew in the south with Ballyfarnon in the north, and an increase in built development is evident on the approaches to these villages along the road. The R285 also runs diagonally linking the villages of Keadew and Knockvicar in the next LCA in the south. Ribbon development has not occurred along this route. Otherwise built development is spread lightly and evenly across the LCA. A Scenic View overlooks Lough Derrynasallagh (pictured

The image of the Lough Meelagh Drumlins character area is of a gently undulating forested drumlin lakeland.

Landscape Value

The LCA is of Very High Value. Lough Meelagh and Lough Skean and the river Feorish are valuable for their fishing amenity. The Historical Trail takes in the shoreline of Lough Meelagh and links up with the Miner’s Way on Kilronan Mountian and attracts visitors to the area.

Forces of Change

There is some mixed broadleaf and conifer forestry in this area. There could be more demand for forestry here. Also, large areas of forestry may be harvested in the next few years offering an opportunity to replant with regard to new guidelines advising on forestry design and landscape issues 20 . The scenic quality of the landscape may attract new tourist investment, for example a high quality hotel that is currently being developed near Lough Meelagh.

20 Department of Agriculture and Food, Forest Service (2002) Forestry and the Landscape Guidelines

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 72 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Special consideration should be given to the landscape character of this area when applications for development, including forestry or tourism, are received.

View to the north west overlooking Lough Derrynasallagh

View to south overlooking Lough Meelagh

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 73 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 16: Lough Key and Boyle River Network

Key Characteristics Lough Arrow, just inside the county boundary to the west has been designated an NHA, SAC Undulating in an easterly direction this drumlin and SPA. Large tracts of Lough Key and the lakeland landscape is dominated by Lough Key and a whole of Lough Eidin, as well as its adjoining series of other loughs, including Oakport Lough and wetlands to the east are designated as an Lough Eidin, all of which are linked by the Boyle NHA. River flowing in an easterly direction to connect to the River Shannon. The ridgeline of the hills located just north of Lough Key mark the northern boundary, while the southern boundary is delineated by the N4. The land cover in the northwest of the LCA is predominantly wet grassland with large areas of understorey forest, scrub and patches of heath. In contrast the south eastern half of the LCA is made up of dry grassland with large areas of mature forest and patches of cut over raised bog and reclaimed raised bog. There are a number of designated Scenic Routes and Scenic Views which overlook Lough Key Forest Park from elevated vantage points, taking in its wooded shoreline and islands. Built development is generally sparse in the LCA, however there is evidence of ribbon development along the R285 around Knockvicar and the third class roads leading into Cootehall village and the townland of Carrigeenree (north of Lough Key). A mineral extraction site next to Lough Fin, just south of Knockvicar has been mapped. The shoreline of

The overall image of this landscape is one of an extensive organically shaped lakeland fringed by broadleaf forest.

Landscape Value

The Lough Key and Boyle River Network character area is of Exceptional Value. Lough Key Forest Park is the jewel in the crown for tourism in County Roscommon, attracting large numbers of visitors for it water amenities, habitats and surrounding scenic landscape. The Historical Walking Trail passes through the LCA taking in the shore of Lough Key and connecting with Boyle in the south and the Miners Ways further north in the Arigna Mountains. Without doubt it is one of the most scenic area in County Roscommon and is of national repute.

Forces of Change

Any inappropriate or insensitively positioned development in and around the Lough Key Forest Park area could have a negative impact on the water amenity and scenic quality of the area. During the public consultation there was concern that the increase in leisure activities, specifically high speed pleasure crafts, which are spoiling the tranquil quality of the lakeland area.

Increased afforestation is a possibility. This presents an opportunity to enhance deciduous tree planting. Poor management of forests, however, could erode the valuable woodland character of the LCA.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 74 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Single rural dwellings should be prohibited where they would block views from designated locations. ‹ Where new applications arise there should be regard to the existing woodland character of this local character area in accordance with the forestry and landscape guidelines prepared by the Department of Agriculture and Food, Forest Service. ‹ Policies adopted by the Council to protect Scenic Routes and Scenic Views should take into account the exceptional scenic character of this LCA.

View from the R280 to the north east over looking Lough Key Forest Park.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 75 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 17: Boyle and Curlew Mountains

Key Characteristics

Located in the north of the county this LCA is dominated by the Curlew Mountains which slope steeply into the Boyle River corridor. The Boyle River meanders its way between the foot hills of the Curlews and the drumlins to the south. The town of Boyle is the main settlement in the area and all national (N61 and N4) and regional (R361, R294, R295, R294) roads going through the LCA feed into the town. Although built development is sparse in the upland and river corridor areas, there is significant development pressure along the roads leading in and around Boyle Town. The uplands are a complex mix of wet and dry grassland, upland blanket bog, reclaimed upland blanket bog, heath and under storey forest and scrub. The Boyle River corridor has long stretches of wetland large portions of which are designated as NHA. The area is predominantly made up of dry grassland but patches of wet grassland and reclaimed raised bog occur near water courses.

The overall image of this landscape is one of a large town nestled in the foothills of wooded upland.

Landscape Value

The landscape value of this LCA is Very High. Boyle town is known for its fine examples of built heritage, including Boyle Abbey. Archaeological sites located in the Curlew Mountains are also valued. There are also views from the old railway track which are considered valuable by the community.

Forces of Change

Demand for additional housing on the outskirts of the town is likely. Ribbon development creeping westward into the Boyle River corridor could damage the water quality of the wetland habitats. Insensitively located and brightly coloured housing in the uplands around Boyle Town will have a negative impact on the visual quality of the Curlew Mountains.

Key Recommendation

‹ Attention should be paid to existing policies that constrain sprawling development around Boyle Town and encourage a compact form.

View from Curlew Mountains to the south east showing the dispersed housing around Boyle Town

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 76 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 18: Plains of Boyle

Key Characteristics

Although this character area is known as the Plains of Boyle in fact it undulates to the south east draining into Cavetown Lough before petering out into low lands where it meets a ridgeline of drumlins delineating the southern boundary of the LCA. In elevated places, particularly around Cavetown Lough the land cover is predominantly rolling dry grassland farmland with mature beech, ash and hawthorn hedgerows. This extends into low land areas, where patches of wet grassland and reclaimed raised bog occur. Small areas of wetland can be found along water courses. In the very north of the LCA, just south of the N4 in the Kaeloges townland a mineral extraction site is located in an area of heath. The road network in the area is very light and built development sparse. The Dublin-Galway railway line passes through the north eastern corner of the LCA.

The overall image of this LCA is one of an elevated plateau providing lake views both to the north and south.

Landscape Value

This LCA is Moderate Value. The main feature of interest is Cavetown Lough and its adjoining water courses which is a relatively unspoilt and scenic.

Forces of Change

Overall this is a stable and mature farmland landscape. The demand for single rural dwellings is the most pressing issue for this LCA and there is evidence of this along the shoreline of Cavetown Lough and adjoining lakes. Any type of development on the lakeshore will have a negative impact on the visual quality of the scenic area.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 77 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Any applications for development around the shorelines of Cavetown Lake and adjoining water bodies should be accompanied by a Visual Impact Statement. ‹ Applications for single rural dwellings in this mature rolling farmland should have special regard to existing hedgerow and tree cover. Applicants should plant similar native species, such as ash, hawthorn and beech trees to sustain the high quality hedgerow character of the area.

View to north overlooking rolling grassland

View to north overlooking Cavetown Lough

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 78 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 19: Elphin Drumlins

Key Characteristics landcover, there are patches of coniferous forest in the northern section of this LCA. The The Elphin Drumlins landscape character area is primary settlement is the elevated and located in the northern half of County Roscommon. exposed town of Elphin which has a cathedral. It is positioned to the west of the Shannon corridor Elphin is served primarily by the R368 which and is defined by a low rounded ridge of high ground connects to the busier N61 located to the to the west, lakeland drumlins to the southeast and west. There is also a small but picturesque the Plains of Boyle to the north. As its title suggests, village located in the north of the LCA at the overriding characteristic of this LCA is the rolling Croghan. drumlins hills, sometimes described as a resembling a ‘basket of eggs’. While the drumlins in this LCA are not as pronounced as they are in other nearby LCAs (LCA 3 and LCA 4 for example), there is nevertheless a series of low rounded hills aligned on a northeast southwest axis along with a number of small lakes. The hills give way to a low rounded ridge to the west, providing some distant views. On this ridge in a townland known as Windmillpark is located a working windmill, restored by the people of Elphin. There is an interpretative centre at the windmill which provides a visitor attraction. The principal drainage pattern in this LCA is to the northwest in the direction of the Shannon corridor. The principle river in this LCA is the Killukin River which connects a number of small lakes including Corbally Lough. While there are some patches of raised bog especially in the northwest corner of this LCA, landcover is otherwise primarily dry grassland with some wet grassland found scattered particularly on low ground between drumlin hills. Lastly in terms of

The overall image of this landscape character area is one of edge of drumlin belt comprising hills and lakes and terminating by a continuous ridge of drumlins to the south.

Landscape Value

This LCA is of Moderate landscape value. This landscape is strongly anthropogenic farmland landscape comprised of small fields and mixed broadleaf hedgerows.

Forces of Change

Currently it appears that the farmland is not intensively managed as evidenced by poorly maintained hedgerows and rush infested pasture. This trend may change. As alternative economy in construction declines there maybe new applications for alternative rural enterprises such as forestry, bio fuels and small enterprise buildings.

The trend in this area has been for dispersed rural settlement and there is a lot of new housing along the roads around the village of Elphin.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 79 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Drumlin landscapes typically have a reasonably high assimilative capacity for built development due to the ‘now-you-see-me now-you-don’t’ nature of the rolling landform and heavy mature hedgerows. Care should be taken, however, to ensure that views from elevated ground, for example overlooking lakes, are not marred by intrusive development. Therefore planning decisions should have regard to design guidelines currently being prepared by the Council. ‹ Wind speeds of over 8 metres per second on high ground to the west and the presence of high voltage line in this area may make wind turbine development commercially viable. Applications for development should have regard to national guidelines. ‹ Similarly, any applications for forestry should have regard to the forestry and landscape guidelines prepared by the Department of Agriculture and Food, Forest Service.

The town of Elphin as viewed from the south

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 80 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 20: Breedoge Bogland Basin

Key Characteristics road (N61). The largest settlement in the LCA is the village of Ballinameen, located on dry This LCA is located in the northern region of County and slightly elevated ground to the east. Roscommon, defined by the Sligo county boundary to the north, the general catchment of the River Breedoge and landcover pattern. The landform is one of a broad shallow basin draining to the northwest serving the above mentioned river and contained by higher ground to the west and east. The Breedoge River is fed in turn by other smaller rivers including the Mantua River and the Finasclin River. The Breedoge feeds the southern extreme of Lough Gara, providing scenic views from nearby local roads. Three distinct shifts of surface vegetation are readily apparent. In the east of the LCA, landcover comprises mostly wet and dry grassland complex with low hedgerows of hawthorn and willow. There is a dramatic shift to raised bog and reclaimed raised bog in the centre of the LCA where birch and willow woodland occurs along drainage channels. This eventually gives way to drier grassland in the northwestern corner where coniferous stands and high hedgerows flank local roads. The areas of bog are very extensive as can be seen from image below. The LCA is served by a series of regional roads (R361, R370 and R369) linking to the north-south national

The overall image is one of a broad bogland basin draining into Lough Gara in neighbouring County Sligo.

Landscape Value

This LCA has been classified as Moderate in terms of landscape value. The principle feature of interest is the vast area of bogland in the centre of the LCA, which has intrinsic ecological qualities and is remote. There is a designated Scenic View located on the N61 to the east providing a broadly panoramic and elevated view overlooking this LCA as seen below.

Forces of Change

The principle forces of change in this LCA include afforestation of bogland, encroachment of rural housing into bogland fringes and overlooking Lough Gara as well as increased marginalisation of farmland particularly to the east.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 81 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ In an area where bogland predominates the best opportunity is for alternative rural enterprises. Where applications arise they should have regard to normal planning controls with particular attention to design.

Extensive bogland of heather and grasses with distant coniferous afforestation

Panoramic view at dusk from the N61 heading south (LCA 20 visible to right of view)

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 82 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 21: Mullaghnashee Wet Farmland Plateau

Key Characteristics Frenchpark Demesne located north of the N5 and the burial place of Douglas Hyde, first This LCA is located in the northwest of County President of Ireland in a nearby graveyard. Roscommon, defined by its relatively elevated position overlooking wetter areas of bogland to the northwest. Its landcover contrasts strongly with the extensive areas of bog located to the southwest. Landform comprises a broad elevated and rounded plateau sweeping gradually to lower ground to the north in the vicinity of Lough Gara. This area of raised ground climaxes at Mullaghnashee where elevated and panoramic views are provided of the surrounding landscape. The largest river in this LCA is the Carricknabraher River which flows northeast eventually connecting to Lough Gara. Landcover comprises a complex of raised bogland on higher ground near Mullaghnashee and otherwise a patchwork of both wet and dry grassland throughout the remainder of the LCA. The quality of farmland improves from the southwest to the northeast, with the lower lands north of the busy N5 comprising well drained pasture lands. Aside from the N5, the LCA is served by the R361 and a dense network of local roads. The principle settlement in the LCA is Frenchpark, a town that appears to be rapidly expanding. Of cultural heritage interest is

The overall image of this LCA is of dry and elevated undulating farmland with pockets of cultural interest.

Landscape Value

This LCA is of Moderate landscape value, much like its neighbouring LCAs to the east and west. The main features of special value include the elevated views available from the summit of Mullaghnashee and the cultural heritage interest in the Douglas Hyde burial place and the adjacent Frenchpark Demesne with its walled estate grounds, parkland landscape and folly. The abovementioned Carricknabraher River is important from a fisheries perspective.

Forces of Change

The N5 is due to be realigned in the medium term, with route selection studies currently underway. Whichever direction the revised route will take, the new road will bring about significant change in the character of the northern end of this LCA. The likelihood is for increased demand for alternative rural enterprise buildings. The village of Frenchpark is currently undergoing rapid expansion and this was raised as an issue of concern in the focus group meetings. Care should be taken that this expansion does not compromise the heritage value of the parkland landscape of Frenchpark Demesne located to the west of the village. There is a scattering of rural dwellings elsewhere.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 83 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Applications for new development including residential and alternative rural development should have regard to design guidelines. In particular policies should protect the water quality of the Carricknabraher River, the walled estate grounds of French Park Demesne and the scenic views at Fairymount.

View north from elevated ground at Fairymount

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 84 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA Area 22: Cloona Lough and Lung River Bogland Basin

Key Characteristics remainder of the area is served by regional and local roads. The largest settlement in this This landscape character area is located in the LCA is Loughglynn, although there is northwest of County Roscommon and is mostly considerable influence from Ballaghaderreen defined by the catchment of the Lung River which located on the northern edge on the N5. drains in a northeasterly direction from a cluster of lakes close to the border with County Mayo. The largest of these lakes is Cloonagh Lough, flanked by Clooacolly Lough to the north, Errit Lough to the south and Loughglynn further to the east. This landscape character area is very low lying and without spatial relief. The Lung River slowly meanders its way towards Lough Gara in the neighbouring County Sligo. There is almost no sense of a valley created by the river, instead a broad floodplain or elongated shallow saucer. Landcover varies in this character area, but it is visually dominated in the west and east by extensive areas of raised bog and reclaimed raised bog. The largest area of bog can be found along the Roscommon Sligo border where the Lung River connects to Lough Gara. The extensive plane of bright straw coloured marginal grass is striking. On drier ground can be found a scattering of green farmland oases comprising both wet and dry grasslands. The N5 cuts through the eastern end of the LCA and the

Overall image is one of a wide river corridor feeding an extensive bogland.

Landscape Value

The value of this is Moderate. The Lung River and associated bogland and wetland corridors is the strongest asset in the area, along with the cluster of lakes found to the west. This landscape is of high nature value and the low lying scenery of river and lake is also of considerable interest for passive recreation as well as angling. The areas of bogland particularly in the east provide a rare opportunity for isolation and tranquility as there is very little anthropogenic influence in this area.

Forces of Change

The large settlement of Ballaghaderreen is exerting some influence on spread of housing into the northern fringes of this LCA. There is also evidence of development pressure along the regional roads and in the village of Loughglynn. Otherwise, the western and eastern fringes are very sparsely populated due to the presence of extensive areas of bogland. There has been some degree of afforestation in wet areas in the east of the LCA which threaten to block views of Lough Gara.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 85 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Normal planning controls should strengthen the structure of Ballaghaderreen and protect the intrinsic value of the surrounding landscape and bogland ecosystem. ‹ The Lung River corridor is a distinctive feature in the landscape therefore care should be exercised not to compromise its quality through inappropriate development. In particular, there should be an objective to control development within the viewsheds of bridges which provide elevated views of the river.

Bogland in the eastern edge of the landscape character area

The Lung River slowly winding through low lying farmland near Ballaghaderreen

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 86 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA Area 23: Ballaghaderreen and Bockagh Hill Uplands

Key Characteristics some telecommunication masts near the summit of the hill. This landscape character area is located in the northwestern corner of County Roscommon, defined to the north and west by the county boundary and to the southeast by the R293 which defines the northern edge of planar bogland surrounding the Lung River. The area is punctuated by Bockagh Hill (227m ASL), a low rounded cone-shaped hill that provides elevated views over the surrounding landscape. Landcover is extremely varied in this character area, comprising an intimate mix of wet and dry grassland on lower elevations and raised bog and upland blanket bog at higher elevations. There has also been some degree of coniferous afforestation at higher elevations. The character area drains both to the north and the south, the latter feeding the Lung River network. In terms of road networks, the N5 winds its way through a shallow valley connecting with the east-west R293 and a dense network of local roads throughout. The largest settlement in this character area is the large market town of Ballaghaderreen. There is a wind farm in this landscape of medium spatial extent and

Overall image is one of a marginal upland landscape defining the gateway to Mayo and the wild landscape of the west of Ireland.

Landscape Value

This landscape is of Moderate value. The elevated Scenic Route from Bockagh Hill of the Roscommon and Mayo landscape provides spatial relief from the predominantly low lying landscape of much of the rest of the county. The intimate landscapes of small fields and stone walls to the northwest of the character area signal the transition from the midlands to the west of Ireland.

Forces of Change

The N5 is due to be realigned in the short to medium term and this is likely to bring about some change in the character of the landscape. The high ground at this location might attract additional telecommunication infrastructure as well as wind farm development. The marginal quality of the farmland at this location may attract additional applications for afforestation.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 87 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Care must be exercised that elevated and panoramic views from higher ground are not lost or materially altered and that the value of high nature value bogland is not compromised. Any application for development on the down slope from the proposed Scenic Route should be accompanied by a Visual Impact Statement to demonstrate that the integrity of the view is not adversely affected. ‹ The intimate character of the stone wall landscape to the northwest of the character area should also be considered.

Panoramic view of rolling uplands in the northwest of Character Area 23.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 88 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 24: Ballinlough Bogland and Esker Ridges

Key Characteristics

This LCA is located in the very west of the county taking in the village of Ballinlough and the N60 along its northern boundary and stretches south to the town land of Garranlahan. The area is predominantly low lying with high hedgerows along roads and conifer shelter belts around homesteads all contributing to shallow depth of views across the landscape. Esker ridges running in a northwest direction is the major landscape feature and forms part of the southern boundary of the LCA. Slieve O’Flynn in the north east and the Clydagh hills in the west drain into the central lowland areas of raised bog and reclaimed raised bog. An area of raised bog along the county border in the town land of Foxborough is designated as an NHA.

The image of this LCA is of low lying esker landscape under pressure from development.

Landscape Value

The landscape in this area is of Moderate Value. This area was highlighted for its esker landscape which was considered unusual and valuable.

Forces of Change

The main force of change in this character area is the partial removal of eskers for the development of single rural dwellings and for quarrying purposes. There is evidence of development pressure along the narrow third class road leading into the town of Ballinlough and the village of Garranlahan.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 89 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Where eskers are the dominant landscape characteristic of an area, the partial removal or quarrying in an insensitive manner will permanently damage the visual quality of the landscape. The eskers in the south of this character area are clustered and vary height and length. The most southerly of these is the most conspicuous due to its continuous nature and high elevation. Any development of this esker would have a significant permanent impact on the character of the landscape. Any application for development should have special regard to this feature. In accordance with national guidelines all applications for quarrying of eskers in the area should pay careful attention to closure plans before work commences.

The gorse covered esker is the main landscape feature of this LCA and is overlooked from the village of Garranlahan.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 90 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 25: Cloonfad Hills

Key Characteristics

Situated in the very western part of the county the Cloonfad Hills and Esker Ridges character area is relatively raised dry ground in comparison to its neighbouring character areas. It is made up of generally well managed dry grassland with low hedgerows of hawthorn and ash as well as stonewalls. Small areas of raised bog and wet grassland occur in lower regions. An esker ridge delineates the northwestern boundary, while the R327 marks the change in landform and land cover to the south. Built development is quite sparse throughout the area, mostly occurring along the third class road leading into Garranlahan, the R327 and a concentration of dwellings around the village of Cloonfad. Coolcam Lough in the east of the area is designated an NHA and an SAC, while an area of lowland in the west at Moigh Upper is an NHA.

The image of the LCA is elevated pasture land with stone walls overlooking surrounding lower regions.

Landscape Value

The Cloonfad Hills character area is of Moderate Value. Marginalisation of farmland has in places eroded what is generally well maintained farmland. In places hedgerows along field boundaries have fallen into decline. The removal of stone walls to allow for the creation of sight lines, or where they are replaced by render finished walls at the entrance of single rural dwellings has undermined one of the main characteristics of the area. There is limited capacity for increased traffic from sporadic development on the narrow third class road leading into the village of Garranlahan.

Forces of Change

There appears to be little recent change in this area. Potential for development of the economy will depend on alternative rural enterprise.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 91 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Any application for development, particularly single rural dwellings, should have special regard to the existing stone walls along boundaries, as well as the capacity of the road to take increased traffic. Due to the elevated landform of this area, any applications for development should pay careful attention to the softening of ridgelines of buildings against the sky through the planting of native species.

Stonewalls and hedgerows have been removed in places eroding the character of the area around the village of Garranlahan.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 92 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 26: Cloonfad Bog and Upland

Key Characteristics

Situated in the very western tip of the county the Cloonfad Bog and Upland character area rises in the south east at Slieve Dairt and slopes and drains to the northwest into lowlands. Coniferous plantation , understorey forestry and scrub dominate the uplands in the southeast, providing scenic walking amenities for local residents. Areas of raised bog, cutover raised bog and reclaimed raised bog characterise the land cover in lower regions. The area south of the village of Cloonfad is very open and has weak deciduous tree and hedgerow cover, while conifer shelterbelts around homesteads punctuate the flat region. The LCA is sparsely developed, although there is development pressure around Cloonfad village.

The image of the Cloonfad Bog and Upland character area is of open low lying wet grassland complex with elevated forest amenity to the south east.

Landscape Value

The Cloonfad Bog and Upland character area is of Moderate Value. The walking trails and views from the forests on Slieve Dairt are a valued amenity to the local people in the Cloonfad area.

Forces of Change

In lower regions, particularly in areas of reclaimed raised bogland there is a distinct lack of hedgerow planting along field boundaries. There may be a future trend towards development of rural enterprises and conifer plantations.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 93 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ All applications for development in this LCA should be viewed as an opportunity to bring cohesion to an area that is structurally weak in deciduous tree and hedgerow cover, especially in the low lying regions. In accordance with national guidelines any applications for forestry in low lying areas should pay careful attention to the treatment of boundaries by planting naturally occurring species such as ash, alder, birch and willow. Applications for single rural dwellings or rural enterprise developments should pay special attention to the treatment of its boundaries and where ever possible encourage the planting hedgerows of native and naturally occurring species such as willow, hazel and hawthorn.

View across reclaimed raised bog in open low lying area south of the village of Cloonfad.

View to the northwest from the walking trail at Slieve Dairt looking toward the village of Cloonfad.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 94 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 27: Castlerea Raised Bogland

Key Characteristics the LCA is served by regional road R361 to the north and a local road to the south. This LCA is one of the smallest LCAs in the county located towards the northwest of County Roscommon with a very striking character. The Castlerea Raised Bogland is predominantly a plateau which drops off very gradually along the southeastern edge to a swath of dry grassland providing a very strong contrast in terms of colour and texture. There are no major rivers in this LCA, however an orthogonal drain runs on an northeast-southwest axis before shifting at right angles to join to the Owennaforeeshe River. Landcover is greatly influenced by the dominance of bog, comprising almost exclusively heather and grass. There is very little afforestation, except perhaps at the outer fringes to the northeast and southwest. There are almost no houses in or around the bogland and the only settlement is the village of Ballangare to the northeast. The eastern boundary of the LCA is defined in the most part by the N5. Otherwise,

This LCA has a very distinctive image of a remote, isolated and tranquil bogland.

Landscape Value

This landscape character area is of High value due to the extent of bogland, the sense of remoteness and tranquility and the contrast provided with its broad surrounds. It was mentioned by a number of attendees at the focus group meetings as a special place to ‘get away from it all’. The area of bogland in this LCA is highly valued for its natural heritage, designed as an NHA, SPA and cSAC.

Forces of Change

The N5 mentioned above is due to be realigned in the medium term, which could potentially involve shifting the axis of the road inside this LCA. It is important that appraisal of alternative routes takes into consideration the special quality of the core bog area as described above. There currently appears to be a low threat from single rural dwellings in and around the bogland itself, although some development has taken place towards the west. Any increase in afforestation would impact on the sense of openness.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 95 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ This landscape character area would be very vulnerable to change, especially in the central bogland area. Care should be taken not to permit housing that would erode the sense of remoteness and special tranquility that currently prevails in the central bogland.

Panorama of extensive and remote bogland views

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 96

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 28: Tulsk and Rathcroghan Plateau

Key Characteristics The landscape here is reasonably well drained, comprising tightly grazed grassland with stone This LCA is located in the centre of the northern walls and low hedgerows. There are half of County Roscommon and is generally opportunities for long distant views, particularly higher and drier than the neighbouring LCAs. The from the ring fort at Rathcroghan as well as character area rises to the summit of a hill at further west at Toberrory. The N5 passes through Rathkineely (161m ASL), with a slightly lower hill this LCA connecting otherwise to a network of to the east at Rathcroghan Cross Roads (125m local roads and farm lanes. The only settlement in ASL). This landscape is also distinguished from its this character area is the historical town of Tulsk surrounds due to the visually striking located in the east. This town is strategically concentration of archaeological monuments positioned on a major crossroads between the located therein comprising mounds ringforts, ring east west N5 and the north-south N61. There is a barrows, ancient roads and field systems, visitor centre there. megalithic tombs, souterrains. The principle feature of public attraction is the large mound located on the west side of the N5 Ballaghaderreen Road and located approximately in the centre of the overall archaeological complex. This site is signposted and has a small car park and information sign. Driving or walking through this LCA gives a strong impression of a very rich heritage, one that dates from the Early Prehistoric Period right the way through into the Early Medieval Period (AD400-AD800). It is best known as a major royal settlement (the seat of the legendary Queen Maeve). It is also described as a location of a great cemetery, an assembly site and an inauguration site of the Kings of Connaught. The LCA is therefore one of the most important archaeological and historical landscapes not just in County Roscommon but in fact on a national scale.

The overall image of this LCA is of an ancient landscape extremely rich in heritage and full of curious and memorable human-made landscape features.

Landscape Value

This landscape is of Exceptional value and is one of just two landscapes in the entire county which have been classified as such. The rich archaeological heritage to be discovered in this LCA is of national significance and this is fully appreciated not only by scientists and academics but also by the people of Roscommon. In the three focus group meetings the Rathcroghan area was time and time again highlighted as a jewel in the Roscommon landscape. Rathcroghan is one of the four ‘royal sites’ that feature prominently in early Irish literature (along with Tara, Navan and Knockaulin) particularly in the epic Cattle Raid of Cooley, the Táin Bó Cúailgne which was initiated there.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 97

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Forces of Change

The N5 is due to be realigned in the medium term and this could bring about the most significant shift in the character of this LCA depending upon its ultimate routing. The existing N5 passes immediately adjacent to several of the monuments that form the Rathcroghan archaeological complex and detracts considerably from the visitor experience due to the intrusion of noise and the irritation of constant traffic winding its way through Roscommon. When the traffic is diverted away from this road there is huge potential to significantly improve the quality of the experience of Rathcroghan. It is therefore essential that future applications for development along this road takes into account the exceptional heritage value of this area.

Other forces of change include afforestation particularly on wetter farmland, as well as some single rural dwellings (although this is not as pronounced as in other parts of Roscommon).

Key Recommendations

‹ It should be an objective of the Council to give special recognition to the exceptional heritage value of the Rathcroghan archaeological complex. All applications for development within the vicinity should require an Impact Assessment to ensure the protection of Rathcroghan. ‹ There are issues of public access within the archaeological complex. It should be an objective of the Council to fulfill the recommendations of the Conservation Plan for the Rathcroghan Archaeological Complex and any subsequent reports.

View from the Rathmore mound at Rathcroghan

View overlooking the Carns archaeological site towards Slieve Bawn in the far distance

View of the inauguration site for Kings of Connaught, the main Rathcroghan archaeological site.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 11298102

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 29: Strokestown Drumlin and Turlough Belt

Key Characteristics relationship created between the grand entrance to Strokestown House in the east and the This landscape character area is located in the elevated church to the west. Strokestown House northern half of County Roscommon. It is a is currently undergoing major improvement relatively large LCA and is defined by a series of works and will be of significant tourist rounded hills to the east, an area of high ground importance once completed. Of heritage value is to the west at Rathcroghan and otherwise by the the Famine Museum in Strokestown as well as clustering of lakes and turloughs. These turloughs the birth place of the renowned poet Percy combine with the rolling drumlin hills to create French at Cloonyquin. The main street currently the essence of the character of this landscape. serves the N5. The other main road in this LCA is The drumlin hills are aligned on a northeast to the R61 to the west along with the regional road southwest axis and fade out to flatter ground in R366 which passes close to the eastern edge of the western half of the LCA. The hills determine this area. the drainage pattern which flows northeast in the direction of the Shannon corridor. There are several lakes and turloughs in this landscape and they combine with the low hills to create a distinctive and very strong character. The landscape changes throughout the year as the turloughs fill and empty, creating a very dramatic seasonal effect. The sight of hedgerows descending gradually underwater is a curiosity and must draw a strange look from passers-by not familiar with the character of this most fluid landscape. The pattern of drumlins also has a major influence on the landcover in this LCA with higher ground comprising mostly well drained dry grassland and lower ground typically comprising reclaimed blanket bog and wetland. This combination of the bright green hills and russet dips and valleys is striking. The largest settlement in this LCA is the town of Strokestown. The town was planned around Strokestown Park House (1720-1740) and is a fine example of an estate town. It is an impressive town not least for its unusually wide main street and the axial

Overall image of this landscape is one of a rolling wetland with a strong cultural node at Strokestown.

Landscape Value

This character area is of Moderate landscape value. The main features of value are planned settlement of Strokestown with its associated demesne developed in the 18 th century. The area is characterised by the amount of lakes and turloughs which are visually significant.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 11399102

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Forces of Change

The N5 is due to be realigned between Strokestown and Ballaghadereen and this could bring about considerable change in this LCA. The existing road currently meanders on dry ground away from lakes and turloughs and it is important that the new road makes the least possible impact on these special attributes as well as the heritage qualities of Strokestown House and grounds. Aside from this development, there is evidence of single rural dwelling development throughout this LCA but particularly concentrated on hills overlooking lakes and turloughs.

Key Recommendations

‹ Although the rolling landform may visually accommodate built development, the natural heritage value around the lakes and turloughs should constrain development. The Council should adopt an objective that recognises the lakeland nature of this LCA. ‹ It should be an objective of the Council to prepare, as part of the LAP review, a Design Statement in order to protect the special heritage of Strokestown.

View of the drowned drumlin landscape

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 101102100

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 30: Oran Undulating Open Farmland

Key Characteristics N60 which travels west to east and the N61 which passes north-south, all other roads are This LCA is located in the middle of County local in character. Roscommon, just west of Roscommon Town. It comprises a shallow saucer defined by low hills to the west, north and east. Elevation here is low and the land generally drains in a southerly direction towards the River Suck. Landform is very gently undulating, creating subtle hills and hollows, the latter of which often contains lakes or turloughs. The landscape here is remarkably open in terms of providing long distant views. This is especially noticeable as one travels between Ballymoe and Roscommon on the main road in the LCA, the N60. The scale of landscape is quite large, therefore, with open fields of tight low boundaries. Landcover comprises a combination of dry grassland throughout contrasting with significant patches of reclaimed blanket bog as well as some raised bog in the centre of the LCA. It is thus a landscape of considerable visual contrast. In addition to these two landcover types, there is also some degree of wet grassland scattered throughout. The only settlement of any significance in this LCA is Castleplunket in the north and aside from the

The overall image of this landscape is one of a very open and gently undulating farmland with occasional turloughs.

Landscape Value

This character area is of Moderate landscape value. There are a number of NHA’s in the northern part of the LCA, mostly concentrated around the low lying wetlands. There are some cultural features of interest in the area, including St. Patrick’s Well at Oran.

Forces of Change

In common with many areas of Roscommon, there are a considerable number of houses being built in the countryside in this area. There is also evidence of declining quality of farmland with the onset of rush particularly on wetter ground.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 102102101

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Due to the open character of the area the landscape is vulnerable to the negative visual impact from built development. It should be an objective of the Council to assess all development with regard to design guidelines.

Open farmland landscape with a large turlough in the centre of the view

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 103102

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 31: Scramoge River Basin

Key Characteristics pass creates a gateway experience and is readily appreciable to users of the N5. Aside from this This LCA is located in the centre of Roscommon, road, the N61 defines parts of the western north of Roscommon Town. It is defined to the boundary of the LCA and regional road R368 east by the highest ridge in County Roscommon, passes to the north. namely Slieve Bawn which rises to a height of 262m ASL, to the north by a series of drumlin hills, to the west by a low ridge of high ground and to the south by landcover pattern. The centre of this LCA is a low basin serving the Scramoge River which drains in a northeasterly direction towards the Kilglass Lakes and onwards to the Shannon system. The Scramoge River Basin character area is thus one of the most varied of all the LCAs in this study concerning landform. The central area is a flat raised bog, surrounded by a series of reclaimed raised bogs. Higher ground is dominated by extensive areas of wet grassland with the ridge of Slieve Bawn being mostly afforested with coniferous plantations. This LCA also provides huge contrast in terms of landcover, therefore. There are no settlements in this LCA and the central bogland area provides an opportunity for tranquility and isolation. In the northeastern corner of this LCA, the N5 passes through a gap of low ground between Slieve Bawn and a ridge running north to Kilglass. This

The overall image of this LCA is one of a low river and bogland basin flanked by an elevated forest ridge.

Landscape Value

This LCA is of Moderate landscape value. There is one extensive NHA in the centre of the area which is of ecological and habitat value.

Forces of Change

There have been quite a number of single rural dwellings built in this LCA in the recent past, likely driven by the proximity to the county town of Roscommon just a short distance to the south as well as Strokestown to the north. On higher ground, there has been a considerable amount of coniferous afforestation and this is likely to gradually creep downhill as farmers consider their land use options.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 104103102

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ The bogland NHA would be vulnerable to any change of any kind. There may also be potential for wind farm development on the top of Slieve Bawn due to its elevated and exposed position. Any applications for wind farms in this area should be assessed with regard to the visual impact in accordance with the national guidelines. ‹ It should be an objective to direct single rural dwellings to lower ground in farmland areas where there are mature hedgerows which can assist in the visual integration of such change, away from the edges of raised bogland or higher areas of land where they would be visually intrusive.

View to south overlooking raised bog with areas of coniferous plantation

View to northeast overlooking reclaimed raised bog and raised bog complex, with Slieve Bawn in the distance

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 10510410 4

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA Area 32: Roscommon Town and Hinterland

Key Characteristics development currently taking place on the eastern and northeastern approaches to the Roscommon Town is the principal town and is town, involving mostly commercial buildings. The centrally located in the very heart of the county. town is very well connected with a number of Outside of the town the landcover in this area is regional roads converging in the town. The Dublin mostly low lying dry grassland with some areas of to Westport railway line also passes through this reclaimed raised bog and forestry to the south. LCA. The rolling drumlin hills in the north slope and drain in an easterly direction in the Hind River which connects to Lough Ree. Skrine Hill defines the boundary in the south. Roscommon town itself has a very distinctive character and comprises many features of important cultural heritage. These include the remains of Roscommon Castle (on the northwestern side of the town) as well as the ruined Friary on the south eastern side of the town centre. Both of these features have been preserved and are open to the public in very pleasant settings. They provide not only cultural interest but are also of high amenity value. The castle is located in the context of a large public park, with lake, tree planting and playground and provides an excellent backdrop to views of the Church in the middle ground. Located close to the park is a well known turlough. There is also an important amenity area to the south of the town at Mote Park, providing walking routes in a woodland setting. There is a considerable amount of

The overall image for this LCA is of a nodal county town of rich cultural heritage located in the context of fertile farmland.

Landscape Value

Roscommon town and hinterland is of High landscape value. This reflects the high quality of cultural heritage features to be found in the town environs as described above. This classification is supported by the views expressed by the attendees at the project focus group meetings who demonstrated a great sense of pride in their county town.

Forces of Change

Roscommon Town is expanding. New developments and population growth bring prosperity and greatly improved services for the residents. However, care must be taken to ensure that applications for development take into consideration the protection of the built heritage of the town. Objectives set in the Local Area Plan for Roscommon should include the protection and enhancement of heritage features including those small details that enrich the streetscape. In the greater hinterland, there is a high demand for single rural dwellings on all approach roads. This tendency for the urban area to sprawl into the surrounding countryside should be resisted in accordance with national and regional policy

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 10610410105 4

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ The Local Area Plan should include objectives to protect and enhance the existing character of Roscommon Town. ‹ The setting of the town within a rural landscape is also valuable and should be protected by a presumption against development outside town boundaries. ‹ Development should only be permitted where it is of the highest quality of design and will not significantly adversely impact on the surrounding landscape character. ‹ Three views from the town are listed in the current plan and it is recommended that a fourth view from the entrance to the town park overlooking the turlough be listed.

View of the Roman Catholic Church from the public park at Roscommon Town

Roscommon Castle as viewed over the lake in the town park

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 10710410106 4

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 33: Skrine Hill and Limestone Pavement

Key Characteristics the above mentioned peaks.

Situated just south of Roscommon Town in the centre of the county, this upland LCA is defined by its relative elevation compared to the surrounding lowlands. The landform is generally quite complex with hills and hollows and steep slopes particularly to the north. This LCA is known locally for its limestone pavements visible in the photograph below. Areas of exposed flat rock as well as naturally occurring and hewn rock faces provide strong visual contrast with to the otherwise softness of well drained grassy fields. Landcover is generally very well drained comprising predominantly dry grassland, with very small patches of wet grassland in places. The land cover is a result of the well drained limestone geology found throughout. The area is sparsely populated and served only by roads of local status. In terms of other development, there is a telecommunication tower located on one of

The overall image of the area is one of a well drained and complex upland with unusual rock outcrops and panoramic views.

Landscape Value

The Skrine Hill and Limestone Pavement is of High Value reflecting the elevated panoramic views in the direction of Lough Ree to the east and its unique limestone pavement and rock faces. A Scenic View located at the crest of Moydow Hill overlooks rolling farmland, Lough Ree and Rhindoon in the distance to the east. Although highly regarded at a local level for its geology and flora, this area currently does not have any official nature designations.

Forces of Change

While this LCA is currently sparsely populated, a number of houses have recently been built in elevated positions which detract from the overall character of this otherwise rocky upland. Scrub is encroaching onto poorer areas of farmland which may in turn have an adverse impact on the ecology of this limestone area.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 10810710410 4

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ Applications for development within this area should be accompanied by a visual impact statement recognising the high value of open views across this landscape.

Limestone rock face, well drained grassland and scattered scrub located close to the top of Skrine Hill

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 110108

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 34: Lough Funshinagh, Stone Wall Grasslands and Esker Ridges

Key Characteristics

This LCA is located south of the centre of County Roscommon and is one of the largest areas identified in the study. The landform rolls from north to south and is primarily dry grassland farmland. There is an area of low lying dry grassland in the south where eskers run in a northeast to southwest direction and make a significant contribution towards the overall character and quality of the landscape. Lough Funshinagh is the main landscape feature in the north east. Stone walls evolved as the system of enclosure throughout this area and in places the field sizes are particularly small contributing significantly to the landscape character and sense of place. There are no major settlements in this area and the roads in the area are generally third class.

The overall image of this LCA is of a rolling stonewalled grassland landscape with a distinctive esker area to the south.

Landscape Value

This landscape is of Moderate Value. There are several locations where views are provided from local roads overlooking Lough Funshinagh. Lough Funshinagh is designated as an NHA and a cSAC and so is not just of aesthetic interest but also of high ecological quality. The other features of value in this landscape character area are the eskers highlighted in the description above. They are a poignant reminder of our glacial history and in some places hazel wood cover creates a strong aesthetic and ecological interest.

Forces of Change

The demand for single rural dwellings on the high ground overlooking Lough Funshinagh availing of the elevated panoramic views. The impact is significant and undermines the visual quality of the landscape.

The houses in the esker belt can sometimes also create an adverse landscape impact as they may require the full or partial removal of the gravelly ridges. Demand for quarried stone and gravel is likely to continue.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 111109

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ It is recommended that applications for single rural dwellings located between public roads and Lough Funshinagh be accompanied by a Visual Impact Statement. ‹ It should be an objective of the council to give special recognition to the esker area in LCA 34 and the inter-related geo-morphological landscape of archaeological significance. ‹ In assessing planning applications for quarrying the Council will have regard to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Quarries and ancillary activities Guidelines 2004

View to southwest overlooking Lough Funshinagh from Scenic View No.22

View to east overlooking undulating fields enclosed by stonewalls

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 112110

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 35: Brideswell Esker Belt

Key Characteristics running in a straight line from east to west.

This landscape character area is located in the south of the county and has been defined to the north and south primarily on the basis of land cover and to the east and west primarily on the basis of subtle enclosure by landform. The area is predominantly low lying and flat with just a few low hills located to the west and east. The flatness of terrain has had a significant impact on drainage of the LCA, creating extensive areas of raised bog and reclaimed raised bog throughout. The predominance of bogland tends to dissipate towards the east of the LCA, being replaced by dry grassland, reclaimed raised bog and some patches of wet grassland. In contrast to the planar bogs, there are a series of ridges located in the northeastern end of the LCA. These eskers fan out from the Athlone environs to the north and west. Land cover in the northeastern corner is complex, combining a mix of both wet and dry environments. There are three regional roads which pass through this LCA and the Dublin to Galway railway line also passes through this LCA

The overall image of this landscape is one of bogs and eskers experiencing localised development pressure from nearby urban area.

Landscape Value

This landscape is of moderate value. There are two areas of NHA and cSAC in the eastern part and one small NHA in the southwest. Castlesampson esker is in this LCA and has been identified as being of particular value as an NHA for its geological significance (refer to the discussion on quarrying in section three of this report).

Forces of Change

There has been considerable quarrying activity in the esker belt of this LCA, adjoining the boundary of LCA 34. This has brought about considerable landscape change. While the quarry pits themselves might be screened from public roads, the dust created by vehicles emerging from the quarry is clearly evident and creates an adverse visual impact.

The proximity of this LCA to the large town of Athlone brings with it pressure for development, involving both single dwellings as well as commercial buildings.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 113111

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Key Recommendations

‹ It should be an objective of the council to give special recognition to the esker area in LCA 35 and the inter-related geo-morphological landscape of archaeological significance. ‹ In assessing planning applications for quarrying the Council will have regard to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Quarries and ancillary activities Guidelines 2004 ‹ It is recommended that a study of the eskers in County Roscommon be undertaken to identify those which are most sensitive to development and to thereafter prioritise those which warrant protection from development.

View overlooking an esker farmland with scrub

View overlooking an esker farmland which has been cleared and improved

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 128112

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon LCA 36: Ballydangan Pastures

Key Characteristics

This landscape character area is located close to the southern tip of the County, defined on the basis of land cover comprising of well drained farmland and contrasting strongly with surrounding LCAs which tend to be largely dominated by extensive areas of bog. This LCA is gently undulating, sloping very slightly from northwest to southeast in the direction of the River Shannon. The quality of farmland here is quite good, with just small patches of wet grassland located in the southwest alongside reclaimed bogland. The landscape is quite open with loose hedgerows of broadleaf species. The N4 passes in a southwesterly direction through this LCA. The status of roads is otherwise local. There are no large settlements in this LCA with crossroads settlements and scattered single rural dwellings located throughout.

Landscape Value

This landscape is of Moderate value.

Forces of Change

If demand for new housing continues there are likely to be many applications in this area on the approach to Athlone Town, in neighbouring County Westmeath.

Key Recommendation

‹ Applications for development in this region should comply with all the usual planning objectives with particular attention to design guidelines.

View to the east along the N6 of the Ballydangan pastures

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 129113

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 99114

Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Appendix 1: Map of Scenic Routes and Scenic Views

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121115120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120116 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121117120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120118 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121119120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120116122121 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121122120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121123120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121124120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120125 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120126 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120127 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120128 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120129 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120130 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120131 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120132 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120133 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120134 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120135 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120136 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120137 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120138 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121139120 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120140 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120141 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120142 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120143 142 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 121120144 142 Scenic Ref Route/ View Existing/ Character Character Irish Grid Direction Feature(s)Landscape of Character Assessment of County Roscommon No. Point Proposed Type Area Location Reference of view interest Forces of change Action/ Control Scenic route along R280 with views across Lough Allen and Slieve Anierin and views from Poorly managed R280 up to hedgerows Maintenance of Lough Allen Kilronan compromising hedgerows and thinning Start of River and Arigna (E) 91427 Mountain and views across of trees on lake side of R1 Scenic Route Proposed Corridor foothills Lough Allen (N) 15357 the Arigna Mines. lake. road. End of Scenic River (E) 93097 Route As above Corridor As above As above (N) 13091 As above As above As above Elevated scenic route along third Start of class road Scenic Route overlooking Intermittent Hills & Arigna (E) 91427 Lough Allen and Development on R2 views Proposed Uplands Mountains Kilronan Mt. (N) 15357 Slieve Anierin. view side of road. Planning Control End of Scenic Route Intermittent Hills & (E) 93097 views As above Uplands As above As above (N) 13091 As above As above As above Elevated scenic route along third class road overlooking Start of Lough Key Lough Key, it's Highly sensitive Scenic Route and Boyle islands and between Intermittent Drumlin River Tinarinnow (E) 81805 Lough Key Forest roadside & lake. R3 views Proposed Lakeland Network Point (N) 07785 & Activity Park. Stable landscape Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 145145 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

End of Scenic Route Intermittent Drumlin (E) 82000 views As above Lakeland As above As above (N) 05500 As above As above As above Scenic route along third class road overlooking Lough Key Lough Key, it's and Boyle islands and Start of Drumlin River (E) 86300 Lough Key Forest Development on R4 Scenic Route Proposed Lakeland Network Kilteasheen (N) 06400 & Activity Park. view side of road. Planning Control End of Scenic Drumlin (E) 84500 Route As above Lakeland As above Smutternagh (N) 07200 As above As above As above Large amenity area (Marina). Lough Boderg to north east. Gently Undulating. Conifer & broad Kilglass leaf woodland. Start of River Drumlin (E) 00301 Inlets & wetland Holiday home R5 Scenic Route Proposed Corridor Lakeland's Carrandoe (N) 90244 360° habitats. development. Planning Control

End of Scenic River (E) 99427 Route As above Corridor As above Sheenaun (N) 87925 306° As above As above As above Elevated Existing panoramic scenic view 4 route CDP overlooking Proposed Kilglass Kilglass Lakes. Sensitive to Start of new Drumlin Drumlin Carrown- (E) 98878 Quarry spoil development on R6 Scenic Route route Lakeland Lakeland's skeheen (N) 85180 220°-20° heaps, farmland view side of road. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 144146 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

field patterns & low hills in near distance. Kilronan Mountain and Slieve Anierin in far distance. End of Scenic Route Intermittent (E) 97873 views As above As above As above Glen (N) 82677 230°-45° As above As above As above Scenic route along N63 with views to south Scenic route along N63 Start of View No 5 River Upper Lough (E) 00126 over looking Development on with views to south over R7 Scenic Route in CDP Corridor Ree Bogland Ballyclare (N) 69491 Lough Ree. view side of road. looking Lough Ree. End of Scenic River (E) 99000 Route As above Corridor As above Culliaghy (N) 69700 As above As above As above Ballynasagga Elevated, rt panoramic scenic route overlooking Lough Ree and stonewalled field Highly sensitive patterns. Athlone between Mid Lough and Rindoon roadside and Start of River Ree (E) 95804 archaeological lake. Stable R8 Scenic Route Proposed Corridor Pastureland (N) 51486 50°-160° site in distance. landscape Planning Control

End of Scenic River (E) 95119 Route As above Corridor As above As above (N) 50926 220°-336° As above As above As above

Start of Wet Cloonfad Bog (E) 53543 Intermittent Views blocked by Design guidelines for R9 Scenic Route Proposed Farmland and Upland Derrylahan (N) 69498 views from road forestry Forestry

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 147 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

to the north plantation overlooking forest plantation and stonewalled field patterns.

End of Scenic Wet (E) 53057 Route As above Farmland As above As above (N) 69354 As above As above As above Elevated view of Lough Skean and rolling farmland Abandonment of and forestry to farmland. the south. Development Existing Tranquil and and farm View No 1 Hills & (E) 88353 sparsely buildings V 1 View Point in CDP Uplands Arigna Mts Cuiltygower (N) 14028 180°-308° populated. blocking views. Planning Control Elevated panoramic view over Lough Allen and Slieve Poor Anierin. Long afforestation on distance views of Slieve Anierin. rolling drumlins Clusters of and farmland. brightly coloured Existing Sheemore Hill houses at View No 2 Hills & (E) 92270 and beyond in far foothills of V2 View Point in CDP Uplands Arigna Mts Arigna (N) 14187 distance. Arigna mines. Planning Control View of Derrynasallagh Lough with naturally Large farm Lough occurring birch buildings Drumlin Meelagh (E) 84450 woodland and inappropriately V3 View Point Proposed Lakeland Drumlins (N) 09550 heath. Long positioned. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 148 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

mooreland ridge to north in distance.

Elevated, extended views over Lough Key Forest & Activity Park. Extensive natural woodland, inlets & islands. Castle Lough Key on islands in Existing and Boyle distance. Highly Development on View No 3 Drumlin River (E) 81805 sensitive the view side of V4 View Point in CDP Lakeland Network Derryvunny (N) 07785 140° landscape. the road. Planning Control Elevated, extended views over Lough Key Forest & Activity Park. Extensive natural woodland, inlets & islands. Castle Lough Key on islands in and Boyle distance. Highly Drumlin River Tinarinnow (E) 81800 sensitive Proposed scenic car V5 View Point Proposed Lakeland Network Point (N) 07200 landscape. As above park/ picnic area View to south west over Lough Key Forest & Farm Lough Key Activity Park and abandonment. and Boyle islands. Intimate Development on Drumlin River (E) 85259 viewshed. Highly the view side of V6 View Point Proposed Lakeland Network Drumcormick (N) 07126 210° sensitive. the road. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 149 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

View of rolling farmland with some single rural Poorly screened Boyle and dwellings and and brightly New Hills & Curlew (E) 79334 forest ridgeline in coloured single V7 View Point Proposed Uplands Mountains Mocmoyne (N) 02792 distance. rural dwellings. Planning Control View from Hartly Bridge to north to Slieve Anierin, Lough Eidin to the south and Poorly positioned windfarm on single rural Kilronan dwellings. Mountain to the Conifer forestry north west. Low on raised bog. Upper undulating Abandoned Shannon and sparsly farmland. Derreen- populated Increased Drumlin annagh (E) 93912 landscape in the population/traffi V8 View Point Proposed Lakeland Drumlin Belt Cleaheen (N) 01866 180°-360° foreground. c. Planning Control View from third class road of undulating farmland with mature trees and light hedgrowes. Mature Drumlin Elphin (E) 86669 woodland in Development on V9 View Point Proposed Lakeland Drumlins Boherroe (N) 93700 distance. view side of road. Planning Control Elevated view Farm from N61 to west abandonment. 1 Existing Breedoge overlooking off houses on View 6 in Drumlin Bogland (E) 84008 undulating wrong side of V 10 View Point CDP Lakeland Basin Carrowkeel (N) 91056 farmland with road. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 150 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

mixed forest and woodland in distance. Known as the Central Plains. Elevated panoramic view from reservoir of surrounding farmland Mullagh- landscape. Long nashee Wet distant views to Wet Farmland Fairymount (E) 67959 the north and V 11 View Point Proposed Farmland Plateau Hill (N) 88207 northwest. Planning Control View from Rathmore archaeological site. A prominent raised rath (ringfort) or chieftain’s Poorly sited and residence dating poorly screened from the Early rural enterprise Medieval Period. development. The site, its views Built and surrounding development Tulsk and landscape encroaching from Dry Rathcroghan Rathcroghan (E) 79627 context are the Tulsk V 12 View Point Proposed Farmland Plateau Cross Roads (N) 84450 highly sensitive. direction. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 151 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Elevated panoramic view from the inauguration site for Kings of Connaught, the main Poorly sited and Rathcroghan poorly screened archaeological rural enterprise site. The site, its development. views and Built surrounding development Tulsk and landscape encroaching from Dry Rathcroghan Rathcroghan (E) 80000 context are the Tulsk V 13 View Point Proposed Farmland Plateau Cross Roads (N) 83700 highly sensitive. direction. Planning Control Development on Suck River view side of the Source and road and close to Lough View from third the shoreline on River O'Flynn (E) 58482 class road across the far side of V 14 View Point Proposed Corridor Boglands Cloontarsna (N) 81121 Lough O'Flynn. the lake. Planning Control View from Suck River carpark across Source and Lough O'Flynn. Lough Flat wetland Development on River O'Flynn (E) 58656 habitat. Sparsely the far side of V 15 View Point Proposed Corridor Boglands Willsborough (N) 78448 populated. the lake. Planning Control Elevated panoramic view from Carns archaeological Development Tulsk and site overlooking encroaching from Dry Rathcroghan (E) 83250 the surrounding the Tulsk V 16 View Point Proposed Farmland Plateau Carns (N) 78258 undulating direction. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 152 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

stonewalled farmland landscape with mature trees and hedgerows. Long distance views of Slieve Bawn to the south east. View of Roscommon Roscommon Dry Town and Roscommon (E) 87226 Castle and Encroaching V17 View Point Proposed Farmland Hinterland Town (N) 64685 turlough. development. Planning Control Roscommon View in Dry Town and Roscommon (E) 87684 Roscommon Encroaching V18 View Point Proposed Farmland Hinterland Town (N) 63912 Town development. Planning Control Elevated views of surrounding stonewall Skrine Hill farmland Poorly located and landscape with and poorly Hills & Limestone (E) 89194 Lough Ree in screened single V19 View Point Proposed Uplands Pavement Knockmeane (N) 57705 distance. rural dwellings. Planning Control

View over Lough Mid Lough Ree from crest of River Ree Mountplunke (E) 96404 hill along third Holiday home V20 View Point Proposed Corridor Pastureland tt (N) 56785 class road. development. Planning Control View from R366 overlooking Suck Athleague Creemully River and low Development on River and Lower and Aghagad (E) 80477 undulating the view side of V21 View Point Proposed Corridor Suck Valley Beg (N) 61889 farmland. the road. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 153 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

View from third class road overlooking Development on Lough Lough the view side of Funshinagh, Funshinagh and the road and Stone Wall mature along the Grassland Lisfelim, woodland on the shoreline on the Dry and Esker Inchiroe and (E) 94585 opposite side of opposite side of V22 View Point Proposed Farmland Ridges Gortfree (N) 50016 the lake. the lake. Planning Control View from third Cloonown class road across Development on River and Shannon (E) 03444 the Shannon the view side of V23 View Point Proposed Corridor Callows Bunua Cunna (N) 34618 callows. the road. Planning Control View from third class road across the Shannon Cloonown callows and esker Development on River and Shannon Curraghnabol (E) 02647 ridge in County the view side of V24 View Point Proposed Corridor Callows l (N) 32317 Offaly. the road. Planning Control Elevated view from third class road overlooking the Shannon callows to the south/southwest, with undulating farmland and mature trees. View to north/northwest overlooking flat River (E) 94779 raised cutover V25 View Point Proposed Corridor Suck Callows Hill (N) 25030 bog. Stable landscape Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 154 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

View from third class road across Cavetown Lough and wetland habitat. A stable Brightly coloured farmland and poorly landscape with screened single mature rural dwellings Dry Plains of Cloonsh- (E) 83558 hedgerows and close to lake V26 View Point Proposed Farmland Boyle aghan (N) 97161 trees. shore. Planning Control

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 155 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 156 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Appendix 2: Minutes of Stakeholder Consultation Meetings

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 159157 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 160158 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION AS PART OF THE ROSCOMMON LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT

Focus Group Meetings held on the 7 th , 8 th and 21 st of February 2007

Unless otherwise stated the views and opinions reported below are those of the focus group attendees and do not reflect the opinions of either Roscommon County Council or the consultants.

Three focus group meetings were held in both the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town and King House, Boyle as part of the public consultation process for the Roscommon Landscape Character Assessment. Two of the meetings comprised of representatives from community groups and individual members of the public. The third meeting was made up of representatives from statutory agencies and other interested interest groups. In total 53 people attended the three events.

The meetings comprised of a short introduction and a slide show by MosArt and then group work and discussion. The attendees were divided into groups of approximately five to six people and asked to map Landscape Value. Discussion then followed on Forces of Change in the landscape such as one-off housing, wind farms, quarries, forestry and farm buildings. Attendees had the opportunity to air their views on these types of development and the impact they might have on the landscapes of Roscommon. The main points under each heading are highlighted below.

1. OVERALL CONCLUSION OF FOCUS GROUP MEETINGS

A summary of the key issues raised at each of the focus group meetings under the topics of Landscape Value, One-off Housing, Wind Farms, Quarries and Forestry are summarised as follows: 1. The ecology, water quality, elevated scenic places, tranquil places and archaeological sites are all very highly valued by the people of Roscommon. The County’s strongest assets are it’s quiet tranquil landscapes and built heritage and these should be positively exploited for their tourism potential and for the benefit of the people of the county. 2. Eskers are valuable and important and are in need of protection from over quarrying. 3. Bogs are highly regarded, providing valuable opportunities for isolation and tranquillity with tourism potential for walking routes. 4. Turloughs and Callows are considered valuable areas for wintering bird populations and are therefore sensitive to development. They are also regarded with pride as part of the defining character of County Roscommon. 5. One-off housing is generally regarded as acceptable in rural areas if character specific design guidelines are introduced and implemented by the County Council. These guidelines should address the architectural vernacular, scale and siting of development, screening and replanting of native species. 6. Tax incentives that encourage large scale developments in small towns and rural areas are perceived to have had a negative impact on local communities and the environment. 7. Wind Farms are widely accepted as a positive development and do not have a negative visual impact on the landscape. Appropriate siting and design in response to local character is important. 8. Afforestation is generally not considered a major issue for the people of Roscommon. However, they could provide greater opportunities for amenity and nature if there was a lesser reliance on coniferous afforestation. 9. More native tree planting is needed in the county to encourage biodiversity and visually improve rural and urban areas. 10. Poor public access to amenity and archaeological sites is perceived to be a major issue for tourism potential and the people of Roscommon.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 161159 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

2. ASSESSMENT OF LANDSCAPE VALUE

When asked to identify the landscapes considered most valuable to focus group attendees a wide variety of areas were identified. Some identified ‘types’ of landscapes and others identified actual areas as being valuable. There was some overlap from group to group when identifying valued landscapes of a large scale. However other smaller scale landscapes were also identified by individual groups. A summary of the comments is provided below.

“Roscommon is a ‘schizo’ landscape, flooded in winter and dry in summer”

2.1 ECOLOGY

• Eskers are considered to be very sensitive and therefore of very high landscape value. • Bogs are valued due to their beauty and isolation. Blanket Bogs provide better flora and fauna diversity than raised bogs, whereas it is perceived that Cut Bogs have greater tourism potential. Examples of beautiful wetland and bog areas are to be found in Castlerea and Ballyhaunis. The heath lands and wetlands in the east of the county are also special. • The upper Shannon system is seen as valuable for its fishing and wetland habitats. As an example of this, Lough Ree and Lough Allen pollen populations were highlighted as very important and should be protected. Concern for wildlife along the Shannon was expressed in connection with recent tax incentives for marinas. The River Hind was also mentioned as important as a feeder river for Lough Ree and the Suck Valley is regarded as a natural heritage area with great walks. • There is a wetland landscape between the areas of Ballygalda, Ballinturly, Carrowstellan, Carrowkeel and Stonepark near Roscommon Town. These areas are ecologically connected when the water table is high and are perceived to be vulnerable from farm pollution. Furthermore, the cluster of turloughs around the Castleturlough are very unique. • Ballinturly SCA was highlighted for the wintering geese and swans (population of approx 300), which are visible from the Athleague road. • Limestone pavement in the Skrine area to the south of Roscommon Town is unique and is visually similar to the Burren with similar rare flora. However this area needs to be designated as it has recently come under development pressure. • The bluebells growing in the woodlands near Cootehall are spectacular.

2.2 BUILT HERITAGE

• Roscommon should positively exploit the wealth of built heritage in the county, not only for the benefit of tourists but to raise awareness and sense of pride in the people of County Roscommon proud. • The Rathcroghan archaeological monuments are of national importance. However access is very poor and there was a suggestion that the Government should acquire the land should it become available. • The medieval site in Tulsk was also highlighted as important and the nearby town of Elphin is of special heritage value as it was once an ancient Cathedral City. • Boyle is special due to its built heritage as is Athleague which has lots of parks which are rich in wildlife and pleasant walks which need further development. Related to this, the built heritage in and around Roscommon Town is very special (especially Roscommon Castle); however the more recent commercial development trends in the town are causing some considerable concern. If the Mart is moved out of the market square it is felt that Roscommon Town will loose its rural character.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 162160 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

• Between Lecarrow and Lough Ree areas there are many examples of intact but abandoned historical monuments, mills and canals which are in need of care and investment. The nearby Rindoon archaeological site is highly regarded but again but the issue of poor access was raised. • Ballintubber Castle is important and should be protected and Mote Demesne is the ‘Jewel’ of the county providing a very valuable amenity in terms of walking.

2.3 TOURISM POTENTIAL

• It is felt that County Roscommon will never attract big industry so it is very important therefore to positively exploit the built and natural heritage of the county for tourism potential. • Lough Key Forest Park and surrounding scenic landscape are highly regarded and the many important views between Lough Key and route through the Curlew Mountains to Sligo should be protected. The issue of locals having to pay for entry into the park is of some concern and the increase of water sports in the area needs to be policed better as it is impacting on the sense of tranquillity. • The waterways of Roscommon are valuable for their scenic quality (including views from waterways), habitats, bridges and old structures and islands on Lough Ree were highlighted for their tourism potential (views to the islands and the archaeology on the islands). Lough O’ Flynn was mentioned by several attendees for its fishing, scenic views and woodlands. The Lung River and wetlands are also reputedly great for fishing. The perceived limited access to Lough Ree needs to be addressed and the Suck Callows are sensitive and therefore valuable for tourism. Lough Fuinshinagh is beautiful but its quality is fast being eroded. • The Dublin/Sligo railway line provides a scenic journey through County Roscommon and is a highly recommended trip (especially in winter). There are good views to the North from Fairymount near Frenchpark and long distance views from Slieve Bawn. The views around the Kilglass area are also highly regarded and there are long distance views from Skrine Hill near Roscommon Town due to the surrounding low lying landscape. There are also fantastic skyscapes in this area. There was general agreement that all elevated areas in the county should be protected as they provide good views (due to the surrounding low landscape). • The Arigna area is valuable for its fishing (Lough Allen), walking and megalithic tombs and its mining heritage is important for tourism. • Forestry around the Cloonfad area has great walking potential and the Suck Valley Way is also important for walking and wildlife. The Mount Talbot forest also has tourism potential. • Roscommon Town is regarded as a heritage town with good Eco-tourism potential, as is Roscommon Town. • The warrior statue on the Sligo road is a strong landmark. There are many opportunities like this for sculpture around the county, as it draws attention to an area and gives people a reason for stopping. • One individual expressed concern that the name Roscommon did not do justice to the county as it made the place sound ‘common’. There was general agreement that people would have more pride if they used the original Irish name Ros Comáin, meaning ‘Coman’s Wood’, as it emphasised the heritage of St. Coman who founded a monastery in the 6 th century. Another individual pointed out that when driving from Longford to Lanesborough there is no obvious ‘entrance’ or gateway to County Roscommon , but instead an ugly industrial landscape is your first impression. • The light quality in County Roscommon is very special with low light pollution at night also. The light reflection on lakes and rivers is unique. There is astrological interest in the Curlew Mountains area. • Areas of stonewall character are valuable to tourism.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 163161 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

3. CONSIDERATION OF FORCES OF CHANGE

3.1 ONE-OFF HOUSING

The issue of one-off housing initiated a lot of debate within and between the groups. At times the debate brought in wider discussions about the planning system in general. There was considerable unease about the impact of larger developments as well as one-off housing in the landscape. Concerns about housing development included the visual and environmental impact on the landscape, as well as the perceived negative impact that tax incentives are having on communities and development in Roscommon generally.

“Nowadays you can’t build small”

3.1.1 Building in Rural Areas • It is generally felt that people who work on the land should be able to build on their land and live close to where they work. It was also generally agreed that sons and daughters building on family land was sustainable, but that there is a need to limit the amount of homes built on family land. Some degree of development in rural places is necessary - otherwise these areas will go into decline. • In general there is no difficulty with ‘outsiders’ moving into an area. The problem tends to be the type of house they want to build. Some types of houses are visually inappropriate for the landscape. Some attendees felt that there should be no restriction on building of one-off housing in the countryside, but that strict guidelines concerning design should be adhered to fully. • It was felt that many new housing developments are too individualistic in design and that the traditional way of positioning houses on site was best i.e.: houses nestled into the landscape for shelter, with communities living in clusters. It was agreed by attendees at all of the focus group meetings that there is need for Rural Design Guidelines similar to those produced by Cork for integrating housing in rural areas. This is especially important in ‘cultural landscapes’. • The removal of hedgerows for new houses is considered to be a big problem. The groups felt it should be a condition of planning in County Roscommon that people replant a certain amount of native species on their site and that a bond type system should be implemented by Roscommon County Council. Energy efficient houses should be encouraged in the planning process, including houses that incorporate energy generation (like wind turbines). There is a perceived potential for developing sheep’s wool commercially as an insulation product for the building industry. • Scenic, elevated areas close to urban centres are most at threat from what is regarded as inappropriate one off housing development. Housing development should not be permitted in isolated bogs as it can have a negative impact on the tranquillity, flora and fauna of the area.

3.1.2 Building in Urban Areas • Large private ‘gated’ schemes are perceived to be destroying small towns such as Tulsk and Cootehall. • Strokestown is commercially decimated; “you can no longer buy a pair of shoes in the town”! • Some individuals felt that new development should be concentrated around villages and not in rural areas . Attendees felt new developments should be built with local materials and should be in keeping with the local vernacular architecture. Furthermore, housing development should not be permitted close to Old Houses or Castles.

3.1.3 Impact of building on Water Quality • There was a perception held by some that developments are granted permission without adequate water treatment provision. There were also genuine concerns from fishing groups regarding the negative impact of poorly sited housing development on or nearby watercourses.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 164162 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

• There was concern about the negative impact of building development along feeder streams to the Shannon and Lough Ree . Buffer zones restricting development along rivers are needed.

3.1.4 Tax Incentives Schemes • The tax incentives in North West Roscommon are seen to be perpetuating a culture of over speculation with houses being bought for investment (buy-to-let) instead of homes. In some places it appears that it is easier to get planning permission for ten houses rather that one. • Tax incentives in the Shannon Callows South of Athlone is a concern as it is considered a sensitive area (wintering birds were mentioned).

3.2 WIND FARMS

“A tree makes more noise than a wind turbine”

“Turn off the oil!”

• There is generally a favourable impression of wind farms in the Roscommon landscape. Most focus group attendees commented on how ‘beautiful’ and ‘elegant’ wind turbines appear and that in some areas wind farms have become features in the landscape. To some wind farms look exciting and are a sign of progress and that the appearance of wind farms doesn’t matter as they are necessary. It is good to see power being generated locally wind energy projects are considered as ‘power without pollution’. • It is felt that wind farms are not harmful to tourism and that they are most suited to large scale landscapes with rolling hills (even in scenic landscapes) as they do not dominate in such locations. However they are not suitable in enclosed type landscapes or near archaeological sites. Landscape sale is therefore very important when siting a wind farm. • Others expressed strong dislike to wind farms, some expressing concerns about the colour of the wind turbines. It was commented that wind farms may ‘look’ clean, but the subsequent underground cables and access roads are often overlooked. Some people say that light flicker is an issue for those who live beneath wind turbines and the power lines (and their location) required to connect to the national grid can be a problem. • From a fisheries point of view there are some concerns regarding the construction of wind turbines. Runoff on elevated sites can be destabilising and may pose a risk to nearby rivers and lakes. The landslide (and subsequent fish kill) at Derrybrien in Mayo was quoted as an example.

3.3 QUARRIES

“Eskers were the highways of the past; perhaps they will also be the highways of the future…”

• Great care should be exercised that the esker landscape is not “flattened”, which is what reportedly happened in Kiltimagh, County Mayo. It was considered that deep excavation quarries are preferable to the quarrying of eskers because they can be filled-in afterwards. The quarrying of eskers is regarded as undesirable as it results in the removal of an entire micro landscape. An alternative to the removal (quarrying) of sand and gravel from eskers was proposed, namely stone crushing. An argument was put forward that quarrying of eskers is therefore unnecessary. • There was a lot of concern regarding the reopening of old quarries, including those for extracting valuable limestone. Development of quarries can lead to heavy duty trucks driving through scenic areas. Noise and dust are also a concern.

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 165163 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

• There were fears regarding retrospective granting of discharge licences to pre 1964 1 quarries in relation to potential limited capacity of some watercourses to adequately dilute the discharge. • At present some eskers and turloughs are protected under the National Monuments Acts as they form part of old roads and pathways. However according to one attendee, the DoEHLG are considering removing old roads and pathways from the Record of Monuments and Places which will leave these landscapes open to development . • The groups expressed caution generally in relation to quarries, but also recognised the pragmatic need to quarry for building materials . On a positive note, there was a suggestion that disused deep extraction quarries are a potential bird and flora habitat sites and could be developed as such. There was also a proposal that used hardcore and rubble from building sites should be returned to quarries for recycling.

3.4 FORESTRY

“Forestry is necessary because some land is not much good for anything else”

• The groups did not express any major concerns in relation to forestry in County Roscommon. They did, however, feel that there was a need for more planting of native species and tree planting in general in urban areas. Turloughs and other nature areas should not be afforested and it is also important that scenic views are not blocked by afforestation. • The perceived poor quality of coniferous plantations is an issue as it is felt that they are too dense. There was a suggestion that if the trees were spaced to allow light to reach the forest floor that these forests would support more plant life and increase biodiversity. It was proposed that measures be taken to better manage clear felling as the result is regarded as unsightly on the landscape. There was general concern regarding the dominance of coniferous plantations in Roscommon. • A tree culture needs to be fostered in the county and there is a need for more native tree planting generally. The mature broadleaf trees that exist today around old demesnes where originally planted as a result of a grant scheme. Similar grant schemes would encourage planting of broad leaf trees and ensure continuity of parkland landscapes. Hedgerows are being lost to development and hedgerow planting would help to increase biodiversity. It is felt that more Tree Preservation Orders need to be put in place to protect existing trees. • The county should be maintained as a GM Free zone when it comes to forestry and bio-energy crops.

3.5 OTHER ISSUES RAISED

At each meeting other landscape issues were raised by attendees that did not form part of the agenda as set out by the Consultants.

“The three landscape issues are: Access, Access and Access!”

1 Section 261 of the 2000 Planning and Development Act requires registration of quarries and at this stage a quarry could be registered and conditions imposed for pre-1964 quarries

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 166164 Landscape Character Assessment of County Roscommon

Access • Access for boat users along rivers in areas of low population is reportedly poor, with few services available. There is a need to balance the quiet and peaceful nature of these places on one hand, but also the provision of services in these places is important • Access for tourists to archaeological landscapes (Rathcroghan, Rindoon) is very poor. Also, old roads and pathways are inaccessible. The litigation concerns of farmers are preventing tourism opportunities. • Farmers who availed of grants to develop and maintain walking routes on their land are now caught in a situation where they now find it difficult to get planning permission for housing development on these routes as a right of way has been established. • When the County Council indemnified the Suck Valley Way access to the area was improved. Other important areas such as Rathcroghan archaeological sites should also be indemnified to improve access.

Built Heritage • Stone walls are generally considered valuable to tourism and provide character to an area. • Tourism tends to focus on large developments like Strokestown House. However, Roscommon should focus on developing smaller attractions and sites as there are many examples in the county and these could provide a unique tourist experience.

Land Drainage • Drainage works in the area North of Athlone is a concern due to the impact it could have on flooding of the Shannon in the area

Roscommon County Development Plan 2014 – 2020 May 2014 Page 167165