Caldicot Llcas

Final Report Monmouthshire Landscape Sensitivity Update Study

Caldicot LLCAs

White Consultants Final/October 2020

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0 0.25 0.5 1 Kilometres ! ! Project: Monmouthshire Landscape Sensitivity Study

! Client: Monmouthshire County Council Settlement: Caldicot © Hawlfraint y Goron a hawliau cronfa ddata 2019 Arolwg Ordnans 10002341! 5 Date: February 2020

± www.whiteconsultants.co.uk ! LLCA Constraints

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0 0.25 0.5 1 Kilometres Project: Monmouthshire Landscape Sensitivity Study Caldicot © Hawlfraint y Goron a hawliau cronfa ddata 2019 Arolwg Ordnans 100023415 Client: Monmouthshire County Council © Crown copyright and database rights 2019 Ordnance Survey 100023415 Date: October 2020 ± www.whiteconsultants.co.uk Status: 1020 revision Landscape sensitivity of LLCAs LLCA CA01 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Valley side, with gentle slopes to the west and rising more steeply to the east. Primarily pastoral with some arable to the south with medium-sized slightly irregular fields with low-cut hedge boundaries, often with gaps. Prominent woodland on steep slopes form a positive backcloth and enclosure to the east while there are occasional mature oaks in hedges. Scattered rural dwellings but dominated by equestrian centre of semi-rural character. The residential settlement edge is some distance from the area, generally screened by trees, especially around Caldicot Castle. The upper slopes of the area are visible from Caldicot Castle’s towers. The area is overlooked by the M48 and is moderately open with some views to the wider countryside to the north and to the residential and commercial areas to the south and south west respectively. The M48 and views of the settlement edge reduces the area's tranquillity. There is a listed building at Mount Ballan, Caldicot Castle is an SM and a listed building in a Conservation Area directly to the west and there is an SM at the The Berries, just to the west. There is a woodland SINC to the east and there are some small areas in floodplain especially to the north. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High/Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in the area east of Crick Road and around Little Ballan including pastures on rising ground with associated woodland which are locally prominent and of positive landscape character, the clear separation from the settlement across the Nedern Brook valley and the wider setting of Caldicot Castle. The area around Mount Ballan has a semi-rural character which is enhanced by standard oaks. The value of the area lies in the SINC woodland within the area, the PROWs through the area, and relationship with SMs such as the castle to the west. The LANDMAP value is outstanding for cultural landscape and high for historic landscape and geological landscape. If the area was considered for development, the least sensitive part would be the south west quadrant west of Crick Road coinciding with the developed part of the equestrian centre, excluding the sloping fields to the north. However, this area still lies substantially divorced from Caldicot in open countryside. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 75% high, 25% moderate Landscape Habitats Moderate Historical Landscapes High Cultural Landscapes Outstanding Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments - National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments Mount Ballan House is listed; adjacent is Caldicot Castle which is an SM and a listed building in a Conservation Area and there is an SM at the The Berries, just to the west Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Yes Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Yes Conservation Area Yes WHS Biodiversity designations comments adjacent is Nedern Brook SSSI to west and SINC in woodland forming the eastern edge of the area SAC NNR SINC SSSI RAMSAR Recreation Factors LLCA CA01 Settlement: Caldicot Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Chepstow Hills LCA Number 40 also part of 0 0 Characteristics Landform valley side, with gentle slopes to the west and rising more steeply to the east Landcover primarily pastoral with some arable with an equestrian centre

Pattern Settlement pattern scattered rural dwellings but dominated by horse riding establishment at Mount Ballan of semi-rural character Woodland cover prominent woodland on steep slopes form a positive backcloth and enclosure to the east while there are occasional mature oaks in hedges Boundaries medium-sized slightly irregular fields with low-cut hedge boundaries, often with gaps Presence of water minor watercourse to the north Diversity diverse Scale medium Sense of enclosure moderately open Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments primarily pastoral with some arable and equestrian centre Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape some ...with settlement some ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the agricultural part of the area may be managed as part of a wider landholding, it has several public rights of way linking the settlement with the wider countryside and the woodland forms part of a series of wooded patches , especially linking the to the south

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance prominent Complexity simple Comments eastern wooded slopes form the skyline when viewed from the west Key views To settlement - From settlement - Landmarks Caldicot Castle’s towers to the west Detractors M48, parts of Equestrian Centre events areas including lighting Intervisibility Site observation medium ...to key features ...from key places Comments the upper slopes of the area are intervisible from Caldicot Castle’s towers. The area is overlooked by the M48 and is moderately open with some views to the wider countryside to the north and to the residential and commercial areas to the south and south Tranquillity Noise sources roads Views of development some Presence of people frequent LLCA CA01 Settlement: Caldicot Summary medium Comments the M48, views of the edge of Caldicot and the equestrian centre reduce tranquillity Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge neutral Form of edge moderately indented Comments the residential settlement edge is some distance from the area, generally screened by trees, especially around Caldicot Castle

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the eastern slopes act as a backcloth to the settlement and the area contributes to the wider setting of Caldicot Castle

Receptors Sensitivity rural residents high long distance/public footpaths high roads/rail/cycleways medium urban residents high/medium Comments the main receptors are local residents and users of the public footpaths, M48 and local roads

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) Manage the woodland for landscape and biodiversity value and hedges to provide links to the woodland and the railway line and Nedern Brook valley corridor to the west Mitigation (if development) Whilst not recommended in landscape terms, if the equestrian centre was developed there should be a strong buffer to the north and east to integrate the area into the landscape and great care taken not to adversely affect the setting of, and approaches to, Caldicot Castle LLCA CA02 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Valley floor, floodplain and lower valley sides. Wetland grassland alongside Nedern Brook and irregular small to medium scale fields with gappy low cut hedges with some used by the equestrian centre to the east. Tree cover lies on small-scale steeper slopes/river terraces and on field boundaries. The area is overlooked by the settlement and M48 which reduce tranquillity, and the area contributes to the wider setting of Caldicot Castle. Caldicot Castle Conservation Area covers the southern part of the area and there is a SM at the The Berries mott and bailey which lies on the edge of the valley floor. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High/Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in its open gently undulating valley with woodland belts and often flooded wet grassland/floodplain which together form a strong green corridor east of Caldicot, its contribution to recreation and as open countryside viewed from the settlement edge, the setting of Caldicot Castle and visibility as a feature from the M48, and containing the settlement on its eastern edge. Its value lies in its nature conservation resource in the SSSI of the Nedern Brook, the Conservation Area, the setting to Caldicot Castle SM and the Berries SM. LANDMAP value is high for historic landscape and partly high for landscape habitats and geological landscape. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 40% high, 60% moderate Landscape Habitats 50% high, 50% moderate Historical Landscapes High Cultural Landscapes Moderate Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments - National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments Caldicot Castle Conservation Area; SM at The Berries Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Yes Conservation Area Yes WHS Biodiversity designations comments Nedern Brook SSSI covers the valley floor SAC NNR SINC SSSI Yes RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park Yes National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Chepstow Hills LCA Number 40 also part of 0 0 Characteristics Landform valley floor, floodplain and lower valley sides Landcover pasture and wetland grassland

Pattern Settlement pattern none Woodland cover tree cover lies on small-scale steeper slopes/river terraces and on field boundaries Boundaries irregular small to medium scale fields with gappy low cut hedges LLCA CA02 Settlement: Caldicot Presence of water Nedern Brook; most in floodplain Diversity simple Scale small to medium Sense of enclosure moderately enclosed but open to the M48 Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments pasture with some fields used by the equestrian centre to the east Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape some ...with settlement some ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area appears to be managed as part of a wider land holding and has several public rights of way linking the settlement with the wider countryside. The valley floor is part of a wider SSSI; woodland belts and wetlands create habitat connectivity to the north and south, and potential connectivity with the areas around Calidicot Castle and along the M48

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance not applicable Complexity Comments - Key views To settlement views to and from Caldicot Castle From settlement views to and from Caldicot Castle Landmarks The Berries mott and bailey Detractors M48 Intervisibility Site observation medium ...to key features ...from key places Comments the area is intervisible to and from adjacent valley sides and with the M48 and the towers of Caldicot Castle Tranquillity Noise sources roads Views of development one side 180 Presence of people frequent Summary medium Comments the M48, views of the edge of Caldicot and use by equestrian centre reduce tranquillity Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge negative Form of edge moderately indented Comments the settlement edge does not touch the area but appears as uniform estate development

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area is overlooked by the settlement and the area contributes to the wider setting of Caldicot Castle

Receptors Sensitivity viewpoints high LLCAviewpointsCA02 high Settlement: Caldicot roads/rail/cycleways high long distance/public footpaths high urban residents high/medium Comments the main receptors are visitors to Caldicot Castle, uses of public footpaths, adjacent residents and the users of the M48

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) manage woodland for biodiversity, strengthen hedgerows Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA03 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Gently sloping hill top pasture, allotments and trees. Strong mixed tree cover including larches along M48 and deciduous woodland copse lying centrally. The area is generally well screened by settlement to the south and trees to the north although there are glimpse views from the M48 which reduces tranquillity. The area appears well used for recreation (apart from some pasture/meadows) including cycleway/footpath linking to wider landscape to the north. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High/Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in its role as a well used green buffer between the settlement to the south and the M48 to the north consisting of allotments, open space and pasture, the trees role in screening the settlement from the wider landscape and approaches. The value of the area lies in its PROWs and allotments which appear well used. The LANDMAP value is high for historic landscape and partly high for landscape habitats and geological landscape. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 40% high, 60% moderate Landscape Habitats 50% high, 50% moderate Historical Landscapes High Cultural Landscapes Moderate Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments Area of amenity importance National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments - Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Yes Conservation Area Yes WHS Biodiversity designations comments - SAC NNR SINC SSSI Yes RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park Yes National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Chepstow Hills LCA Number 40 also part of 0 0 Characteristics Landform gently sloping hill top Landcover pasture, allotments and trees

Pattern Settlement pattern isolated houses to the east [Sharpy Cottages] Woodland cover strong mixed tree cover including larches along M48 and deciduous woodland copse Boundaries trees and fences Presence of water - Diversity diverse Scale small Sense of enclosure enclosed LLCA CA03 Settlement: Caldicot Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments pasture/meadow, allotments and trees Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape some ...with settlement significant ...with adjacent assessed area? limited Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area may be managed as part of a wider landholding, is used for informal recreation/walking and allotments by adjacent residents and has a public right of way and a cycleway which run to the north. The trees form part of the habitat connectivity of the M48 corridor.

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance apparent Complexity Comments area acts as skyline to users of M48 adjacent in cutting Key views To settlement view of settlement edge from M48 across area From settlement - Landmarks - Detractors M48 adjacent Intervisibility Site observation low ...to key features ...from key places Comments the area is generally well screened by settlement to the south and trees to the north although there are glimpse views from the M48 Tranquillity Noise sources roads Views of development one side 180 Presence of people frequent Summary medium/low Comments the M48 runs adjacent, the settlement is clearly visible to the south and people use the area for allotment gardens and recreation Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge neutral Form of edge moderately indented Comments the settlement edge is mitigated significantly by trees within the area

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape limited ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area is important to the northern edge of Caldicot enclosing it from the M48

Receptors Sensitivity urban residents high/medium roads/rail/cycleways high/medium long distance/public footpaths high LLCA CA03 Settlement: Caldicot

Comments the area is overlooked by adjacent residents, users of the M48 and by footpath/cycleway users

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) Reinforce and manage tree cover to enhance habitat connectivity of the M48 corridor, increasing native species over time while maintaining screening. Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA04 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Low lying valley floor on which lies Caldicot Castle which is a visitor attraction surrounded by Country Park. Grassed open spaces enclosed by trees and mixed woodland and avenues. The area is well used by the local population for recreation including walking and is well linked into the settlement. The area acts as a setting to Caldicot Castle and the towers of the castle are visible from parts of the settlement. Caldicot Castle is a SM and a listed building [as is Red House] within a Conservation Area which covers the entire area and part of the area is a Country Park. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High The susceptibility of the area lies in its role as the setting of Caldicot Castle, , its recreational use as a Country Park, its character as a low lying landscape with open grass area and many mature trees and its habitat connectivity along the river corridor. Its value is in its designation as a Conservation Area with SM and listed buildings around the castle, recreational use recognised as an Area of Amenity Importance. LANDMAP value is partly outstanding and partly high for historic landscape. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 60% moderate, 30% low, 10% high Landscape Habitats Moderate Historical Landscapes 70% outstanding, 30% high Cultural Landscapes Moderate Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments Country Park in parts; Area of Amenity Importance National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments Caldicot Castle is a SM and a listed building [as is Red House] within a Conservation Area which covers the entire area Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Yes Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Yes Conservation Area Yes WHS Biodiversity designations comments - SAC NNR SINC SSSI RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park Yes National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Chepstow Hills LCA Number 40 also part of Characteristics Landform low lying valley floor Landcover grassed open spaces enclosed by trees and mixed woodland

Pattern Settlement pattern castle and Red House only Woodland cover strong tree cover of mixed woodland belts, boundaries and avenues Boundaries trees LLCA CA04 Settlement: Caldicot Presence of water watercourses wind through the castle grounds; in floodplain Diversity simple Scale small Sense of enclosure highly enclosed Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments castle is a visitor attraction surrounded by Country Park Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape some ...with settlement significant ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area is well used by the local population for recreation including walking and is well linked into the settlement with several PROWs; habitat connectivity with woodland and hedgerows

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance not applicable Complexity Comments - Key views To settlement - From settlement glimpse views of castle Landmarks Caldicot Castle and Red House Detractors - Intervisibility Site observation medium ...to key features ...from key places Comments intervisible with valley to the north and valley sides to the north east Tranquillity Noise sources people Views of development one side 180 Presence of people frequent Summary medium Comments the area is well used for recreation and despite being adjacent to the settlement edge feels tranquil in places due to enclosure Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge neutral Form of edge moderately indented Comments the recent estate development to the west is screened by trees generally although may become intrusive to the north

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement significan ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area acts as a setting to Caldicot Castle and the towers of the castle are visible from parts of the settlement

Receptors Sensitivity urban residents high/medium LLCAurban residentsCA04 high/mediumSettlement: Caldicot rural residents high/medium viewpoints high long distance/public footpaths high Comments the area is overlooked by Caldicot Castle which has many sensitive receptors and is well used by people who are sensitive to change

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) - Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA05 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Generally the area comprises levels with some gentle slopes in places and pasture with some arable land. There is a mix of rectilinear, semi-regular and irregular medium sized fields with a mix of low-cut and outgrown hedges and reens in levels areas. The area is overlooked by the users of the M4 motorway, adjacent residents and users of public footpaths and cycleroute. Pylons/power lines within the area, the M4 and some railway infrastructure adjacent are detractors and reduce the area's tranquillity. The area visually forms part of the Gwent Levels. Parts of the area are in Gwent Levels SSSI to the east, with a small SINC on rough pasture to the north west. Part the area is in Gwent Levels Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High/Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in its distinctive open, flat and wet lowland character forming part of the Gwent Levels, sandwiched between the M4 and the railway, in the floodplain, with features of ecological and historic interest with a mainly rectilinear pattern of mainly pasture divided by reens, and maturing tree belts along the transport corridors, with public access from Caldicot, its visibility from the M4 at a gateway to Wales, and forming part of the continuum visually and functionally with the rest of the Levels to the south. Its value lies in being in part SSSI and SINC, historic interest with one SM, community value in the Areas of Amenity Importance with PROWs and the Welsh Coast Path and a regional cycle route. LANDMAP value is outstanding for landscape habitats and cultural landscape and mostly outstanding for historic landscape. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 85% moderate, 15% low Landscape Habitats Outstanding Historical Landscapes 30% moderate, 70% outstanding Cultural Landscapes Outstanding Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments Area of Amenity Importance National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments in Gwent Levels Landscape of Outstanding Historic Interest except for one area centrally; SM enclosure Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Yes Scheduled Monument Yes Conservation Area WHS Biodiversity designations comments parts are in Gwent Levels SSSI to the east, SINC in part to north west SAC NNR SINC SSSI Yes RAMSAR Yes Recreation Factors Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route Yes LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Caldicot Levels LCA Number 2 also part of Characteristics Landform generally level with some gentle slopes Landcover pasture with some arable LLCA CA05 Settlement: Caldicot Pattern Settlement pattern none Woodland cover along M4 Boundaries mix of rectilinear and irregular medium sized fields with a mix of low-cut and outgrown hedges and reens in levels areas Presence of water reens Diversity simple Scale medium Sense of enclosure open Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments pasture with some arable Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape significan ...with settlement some ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area appears to be managed as part of a wider land holding and has several public rights of way linking the settlement with the wider countryside and coast, including the Welsh Coast Path and a regional cyccle route.The area forms part of the Levels SSSI in part and is a nature conservation corridor especially to the east.

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance not applicable Complexity Comments - Key views To settlement settlement visible across area from M4 in places From settlement area forms middle ground in views towards the coast from settlement Landmarks - Detractors pylons/power lines within the area, the M4 and some railway infrastructure adjacent Intervisibility Site observation medium ...to key features ...from key places Comments the area is intervisible with adjacent landscapes, the M4 and settlement edges Tranquillity Noise sources roads other Views of development one side 180 Presence of people infrequent Summary medium/low Comments the area is sandwiched between the settlement and busy mainline railway to the north and the M4 to the south with pylons running through it all of which reduce tranquillity Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge negative Form of edge smooth/linear Comments the settlement edge to the north is defined by the mainline railwayand consists of estates partly mitigated by vegetation

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some LLCA CA05 Settlement: Caldicot Setting Comments the area visually forms part of the Gwent Levels through which the M4 passes

Receptors Sensitivity roads/rail/cycleways medium urban residents medium long distance/public footpaths high

Comments the area is overlooked by the users of the M4 motorway, adjacent residents and users of public footpaths

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) - Mitigation (if development) LLCA CA06 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Low lying flat land in floodplain consisting of a mix of pasture and arable land, recreation ground, allotments, rugby sports ground and a derelict industrial site by the railway. The fields and enclosures are generally medium in scale bordered by outgrown hedgerows. A line of poplars to the west have been inexpertly lopped and are now minor detractors. The area is overlooked by the adjacent linear housing estates, railway and footpaths but is not widely visible due to the enclosing hedgerows and flat landform. The area has some urban fringe characteristics with detractors such as railway infrastructure, the commercial area to the west and power lines to the south but is a well used local landscape separating Rogiet from the railway line and from Caldicot. The area is designated as Green Wedge and as area of amenity importance to the east and west. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in its role as floodplain and as a well used local landscape of recreation and sports grounds as well as pasture with some public access which effectively separates residential areas of Rogiet from the railway line and from Caldicot. Its value lies in the PROWs and community recreational activities. The LANDMAP value is outstanding for historic landscape for the majority of the area. Housing development potential is limited by the presence of floodplain and so may be inappropriate in a substantial part of the area. The green buffer should be largely retained acting as GI spaces and corridors and utilising placemaking principles. If partially allocated, a development brief for this area would be highly desirable. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 85% moderate, 15% low Landscape Habitats Historical Landscapes 25% moderate, 75% outstanding Cultural Landscapes Moderate Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments the area is designated as Green Wedge and as areas of amenity importance to the east and west National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments - Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Conservation Area WHS Biodiversity designations comments - SAC NNR SINC SSSI RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Severnside LCA Number 3 also part of Characteristics Landform low lying flat land in floodplain Landcover mix of pasture and arable, recreation ground, sports ground with associated car park, allotments and derelict industrial site alongside railway Pattern LLCA CA06 Settlement: Caldicot Settlement pattern none Woodland cover outgrown hedgerows and butchered line of poplars in allotments to the west Boundaries irregular medium-size fields with outgrown hedgerows Presence of water drain on southern edge Diversity diverse Scale medium Sense of enclosure moderately open Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments mix of pasture and arable, recreation ground, sports ground and derelict industrial site Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape limited ...with settlement some ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area appears to be managed as part of a wider landholding including the area to the north [CA07], there is habitat connectivity along the railway corridor and in hedges within the area and the sports ground and footpaths appear well used and connected into the settlement

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments development in either the eastern part of this area or in CA07 to the north would make the other area more vulnerable to development

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance not applicable Complexity Comments - Key views To settlement views to the settlement from the railway line From settlement views from adjacent residents and from footpaths and open spaces into area Landmarks - Detractors commercial area to west and railway infrastructure including overhead wires, power lines to the south, butchered poplars, floodlights for rugby pitch Intervisibility Site observation medium ...to key features ...from key places Comments intervisible with the railway and adjacent settlement although not widely visible. Structures on the area may be visible from the Rogiet Road to the north. Tranquillity Noise sources people other Views of development many 270 Presence of people frequent Summary medium/low Comments the presence of settlement, use of recreation grounds, footpaths, and railway reduce tranquillity Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge negative Form of edge smooth/linear Comments the adjacent settlement edge is 20th-century housing estates and terrace dwellings

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape limited ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting LLCA CA06 Settlement: Caldicot Comments the area is overlooked by settlement separating Rogiet and Caldicot

Receptors Sensitivity urban residents high/medium long distance/public footpaths high/medium roads/rail/cycleways medium

Comments the area is overlooked by housing, the railway and footpaths running through and adjacent

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) restore derelict area to the south to open space, woodland or allotments reinforcing habitat connectivity. Also manage hedgeorws to encourage tree growth. Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA07 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Very gentle sloping land rising from the south to the north east corner and also to Ifton Manor Farm. The pastures are generally medium in scale bordered by outgrown hedgerows with low-cut hedgerows along the Rogiet Road. The area is overlooked by the adjacent linear housing estates to the east, roads including the M48 and sloping land to the north and has a minor focus of Ifton Manor Farm on rising ground. The settlement edge to the west is a combination of housing largely screened by trees including a remnant avenue, with commercial units to the north. A public footpath runs from Ifton Manor Farm to Caldicot. The area is designated as Green Wedge. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in its role as a largely open green wedge/gap separating Caldicot and Rogiet, its visibility from the M48, the remnant avenue trees and associated vegetation as part of the former access to Ifton Manor Farm, the outgrown hedgerows and pasture to the east and access across the area. The value of the area lies in the grassland SINC to the east and PROWs. LANDMAP geological landscape value is high for 30% of the area. Housing development considered appropriate may be a series of sites to the east and west which improve the settlement edges to both Caldicot and Rogiet, retaining their identity. The green buffer should be largely retained as a substantial area acting as GI spaces and corridors and utilising placemaking principles. If allocated, a development brief for this area would be highly desirable.The least sensitive areas are to the north east by the M4 north of the Rogiet Road in line with the pasture to the south and to the west bounding Rogiet both north of the Rogiet Road and in the hedged pasture to the south (east of Yew Tree Rise). However, there should remain a very substantial gap of green space between the settlements, minimum 300m, to maintain their identity. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 60% low, 30% high, 10% moderate Landscape Habitats Moderate Historical Landscapes Moderate Cultural Landscapes Moderate Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments all in Green Wedge National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments - Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Conservation Area WHS Biodiversity designations comments SINC in pasture/grassland fields to the east SAC NNR SINC SSSI RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Severnside LCA Number 35 also part of 0 0 Characteristics Landform very gentle sloping land rising from the south to the north east corner and also to Ifton Manor LLCA CA07 Settlement: Caldicot Farm Landcover pasture and arable land dissected by Rogiet Road

Pattern Settlement pattern none Woodland cover no trees, just overgrown hedgerows Boundaries irregular small to medium-size fields with a combination of outgrown and low-cut hedgerows (the latter adjacent to roads) Presence of water - Diversity simple Scale medium Sense of enclosure open Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments pasture/meadow and arable Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape limited ...with settlement some ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area appears to be managed as part of a wider landholding including the area to the south (CA06])and footpaths appear well used

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments development in either this area or the eastern part of CA06 to the south would make the other area more vulnerable to development

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance apparent Complexity Comments outgrown hedgerow to the south of Rogiet Road forms skyline when viewed from the road Key views To settlement area forms open land across which adjacent settlements can be viewed From settlement area overlooked by adjacent residents Landmarks - Detractors M48 adjacent and commercial premises to the north west Intervisibility Site observation medium ...to key features ...from key places Comments area intervisible with M48, settlement and rising land to the north Tranquillity Noise sources roads Views of development many 270 Presence of people frequent Summary medium/low Comments adjacent M48 and busy Rogiet Road plus views of adjacent settlements reduce tranquillity Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge negative Form of edge smooth/linear Comments the adjacent settlement edge is of 20th-century housing estates to the east and newer housing in trees to the west

Visual relationship and connectivity VisualLLCA relationshipCA07 and connectivity Settlement: Caldicot ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area is overlooked by settlement separating Rogiet and Caldicot and from the slopes to the north

Receptors Sensitivity urban residents high/medium roads/rail/cycleways high/medium long distance/public footpaths high rural residents high Comments the area is most frequently viewed from the M48 and Rogiet Road but also from adjacent residents, footpath and from rural residents to the north of the M48

OTHER Other factors a small area is in floodplain Potential Improvements (if no development) - Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA08 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Rising hillside north of the levels with a range of small to large improved pasture fields with some degraded hedgerows and fences. Tree cover is provided adjacent to the area by mature parkland coniferous and deciduous trees in Dewstow House grounds to the north east and by a substantial deciduous tree belt to the west. Trees also lie at Ifton Crest. All of the above tree belts are prominent on the local skyline. The area is separated from the settlement by the M48 with only one dwelling- Ifton Crest is an isolated bungalow with caravan storage area. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High/Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in its open pasture on rising ground visible from the M48, its clear separation from the settlement by the major road, its role as open landscape setting of Dewstow House and its historic park and garden, the open views from the M48, its role as part of the rural backcloth behind the lower lying linear settlements below. The value of the area lies in its Historic Park Essential Setting close to Dewstow House. LANDMAP value is high for cultural landscape and geological landscape. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes High Landscape Habitats Moderate Historical Landscapes Moderate Cultural Landscapes High Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments - National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments Historic Park Essential Setting - listed structures and buildings at Dewstow House to the north east of the area Historic Parks and Gardens Yes Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Yes Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Conservation Area WHS Biodiversity designations comments - SAC NNR SINC SSSI RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Caerwent Hinterland LCA Number 4 also part of Characteristics Landform rising hillside north of the levels Landcover pasture with one dwelling and curtilage

Pattern Settlement pattern single dwelling Woodland cover limited tree cover on the field boundaries with more significant cover at Dewstow House to the north east and bordering the quarries to the west Boundaries small to large pasture fields with some degraded hedgerows LLCA CA08 Settlement: Caldicot Presence of water - Diversity simple Scale medium Sense of enclosure open Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments pasture with one dwelling and caravan storage area Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape none ...with settlement none ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area may be managed as part of a wider land holding including the area to the south [CA7] but has no public access; potential for habitat connnectivity on west side linking to woodland and scrub areas

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance prominent Complexity Comments adjacent mature parkland trees to the north east and to the west form skyline when viewed from the south including M48 Key views To settlement - From settlement view of area from settlement edges and from Rogiet Road Landmarks - Detractors M48 Intervisibility Site observation high ...to key features ...from key places Comments prominent rising hillside visible from the south Tranquillity Noise sources roads Views of development some Presence of people infrequent Summary medium Comments whilst rural the area is affected by the M48 and views of settlement to the south Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge Form of edge Comments n/a

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape limited ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area forms part of a green backcloth to the settlements of Caldicot and Rogiet and landscape setting of Dewstow House

Receptors Sensitivity roads/rail/cycleways medium rural residents medium LLCA CA08 Settlement: Caldicot urban residents high/medium

Comments receptors are users of the M48, Rogiet Road and Dewstow Road and the settlement edge to the south

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) reinstate hedges and screen to caravan storage area at Ifton Crest with additional trees Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA09 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Former golf course comprising pasture and meadow on rising hillside north of the levels. Mature vegetation and trees lie around listed Dewstow House with its historic park and gardens and semi- mature mixed tree planting belts define former fairways. The area forms skyline when viewed from south including M48 and forms part of a green backcloth to the settlement. The area is disturbed by the M48 reducing tranquillity but is quiet to the north. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High/Medium The susceptibility of the area is its role as garden and associated setting, its character as a distinct open hillside visible from the M48 forming part of the rural backcloth behind the lower lying linear settlements below, the tree and hedge cover and the presence of local skylines contributing positively to the local landscape character. The value of the area lies in the historic park and garden and its essential setting to the east, the associated listed buildings and structures and the public footpaths running across the area. The LANDMAP value is high for geological landscape and cultural landscape. Whilst development is not desirable in landscape terms, the least sensitve part of the area lies in the north eastern part of the area including the driving range fringing the quarry but avoiding the skyline. However, this area is in open countryside and substantially divorced from the settlement across the M48. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes High Landscape Habitats Moderate Historical Landscapes Moderate Cultural Landscapes High Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments - National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments Dewstow House and associated features such as grotto and 'underground garden' are listed and are part of Historic Park and Garden with essential setting to the east Historic Parks and Gardens Yes Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Yes Listed Building Yes Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Conservation Area WHS Biodiversity designations comments - SAC NNR SINC SSSI Yes RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Caerwent Hinterland LCA Number 4 also part of Characteristics Landform rising hillside north of the levels Landcover gardens, former golf course now used for pasture/grassland

Pattern Settlement pattern Dewstow House and farm complex, former golf course related structures LLCA CA09 Settlement: Caldicot Woodland cover mature vegetation around Dewstow House and immature mixed tree planting belts defining former fairways Boundaries hedges only remain on the edges of the area Presence of water ponds Diversity simple Scale medium Sense of enclosure relatively enclosed with framed views from roads and footpaths Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments pasture/grassland, gardens, former golf course Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape some ...with settlement limited ...with adjacent assessed area? some Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the golf course was a self contained land use but its current grazing use links to surrounding pasture. A public footpath across the area links into the settlement across the M48. There is existing habitat connectivity in relation to the gardens and potential connectivity across the southern part of the area including tree belts.

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance prominent Complexity simple Comments trees form skyline such as wellingtonias when viewed from south and within the area Key views To settlement - From settlement - Landmarks Dewstow House and gardens Detractors M48 adjacent Intervisibility Site observation medium ...to key features ...from key places Comments intervisible with settlement to south in parts although increasing screened by M48 vegetation Tranquillity Noise sources roads Views of development one side 180 Presence of people frequent Summary medium Comments the area is crossed by PROW and minor roads and the southern part is disturbed by the M48 reducing tranquillity Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge neutral Form of edge smooth/linear Comments the unsightly settlement edge is screened and mitigated by tree belts along the M48

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement some ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area forms part of a green backcloth to the settlement of Caldicot LLCA CA09 Settlement: Caldicot Receptors Sensitivity roads/rail/cycleways medium long distance/public footpaths medium urban residents high/medium

Comments the area is viewed from the M48, by users of public footpaths and by settlement residents

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) Increase deciduous tree cover extent and replace conifers over time Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA10 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Quarry on hill with quarry faces, hardstandings, grass, scrub and trees. Trees lie on boundaries and in unexcavated core of the area- 'Woodland Valley'. Hedges on boundaries to the south and west- gappy elsewhere. The quarry is not visible from Caldicot but its trees form part of the backcloth to the settlement and Caerwent, forming the skyline in places. The area lies in open countryside separated from settlement. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in its developing woodland on a hillside setting forming the backcloth of views from Caldicot and Caerwent, and its separation from the Caldicot by the M48. Its value lies in the PROW through the area. LANDMAP value is high for cultural landscape and geological landscape. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes High Landscape Habitats Moderate Historical Landscapes Moderate Cultural Landscapes High Visual and Sensory Moderate Designations Landscape designations comments - National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments - Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Conservation Area WHS Biodiversity designations comments Brockwell Meadows SSSI adjacent SAC NNR SINC SSSI RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route Yes LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Caerwent Hinterland LCA Number 4 also part of Characteristics Landform quarry on hill Landcover hard standings, grass, scrub and trees

Pattern Settlement pattern one house in core of area Woodland cover trees on boundaries and in unexcavated core of the area- 'Woodland Valley' Boundaries hedges on boundaries to the south and west- gappy elsewhere Presence of water - Diversity simple Scale medium Sense of enclosure moderately enclosed to south and open to north Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other LLCA CA10 Settlement: Caldicot Comments derelict quarry Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape none ...with settlement none ...with adjacent assessed area? limited Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the use is self contained; one PROW on north boundary

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance prominent Complexity simple Comments the quarry lies on a hill and forms the skyline Key views To settlement - From settlement the area is not visible from Caldicot but forms part of the backcloth to Caerwent Landmarks - Detractors the rock faces are detractors Intervisibility Site observation high ...to key features ...from key places Comments visible from valley to the north Tranquillity Noise sources other Views of development some Presence of people infrequent Summary medium Comments the degraded nature of the quarry redues its tranquillity Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge Form of edge Comments n/a

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement limited ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area is part of the hillsides south of Caerwent

Receptors Sensitivity urban residents high/medium rural residents high/medium long distance/public footpaths high roads/rail/cycleways medium Comments the area is visible on the hillsides to residents, PROW users through the site and from adjacent roads

OTHER Other factors the area lies in open countryside separated from settlement. LLCA CA10 Settlement: Caldicot Potential Improvements (if no development) manage woodland and scrub for biodiversity Mitigation (if development) - LLCA CA11 Settlement: Caldicot SUMMARY Key characteristics Sloping valley sides of pastoral and arable land use with horse pasture in places. Small and medium sized irregular fields with a mix of low cut and outgrown hedgerows and timber fences and sheds for horses in places. Upper Rodge Wood lies to the west and trees are found on boundaries to fields to the south east. Semi-rural settlement on lanes including those related to former quarry. The area is generally not visible from Caldicot but forms part of the backcloth to Caerwent. Part of Brockwell Meadows SSSI lies to the west. Regional cycle route and PROWs run through the area. Landscape and visual sensitivity to housing High/Medium The susceptibility of the area lies in being open arable and pasture fields with hedgerows and tree belts, forming an open countryside setting to Caerwent and visible from the M48 (a gateway to Wales), overlooking the Nedern Brook valley, forming the skyline south of Caerwent. Its value lies in its habitat designations including meadows SSSI and woodland SINC, PROWs and regional cycle route. LANDMAP value is high for visual and sensory and cultural landscape, and partly high for historic landscape and geological landscape. Does the area or its attributes contribute to the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act Goals ? a prosperous Wales a resilient Wales a more equal Wales a globally responsible Wales a Wales of cohesive communities a Wales of vibrant culture and thriving Welsh Language a healthier Wales

VALUE Landmap Context Aspect area value Aspect area value Geological Landscapes 60% high, 40% moderate Landscape Habitats Moderate Historical Landscapes 45% high, 55% moderate Cultural Landscapes High Visual and Sensory High Designations Landscape designations comments - National Park AONB Historic/archaeology designations comments - Historic Parks and Gardens Hist. Parks and Gardens Setting Listed Building Landscape of Hist. Interest Scheduled Monument Conservation Area WHS Biodiversity designations comments Brockwell Meadows SSSI and Upper Rodge Wood SINC to west SAC NNR SINC SSSI Yes RAMSAR Recreation Factors Country Park National Trail National/Regional Cycle Route Yes LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND SUSCEPTIBILITY Landscape Character Area LCA Name Caerwent Hinterland LCA Number 4 also part of Characteristics Landform sloping valley sides Landcover pastoral and arable

Pattern Settlement pattern semi-rural settlement on lanes including those related to quarry Woodland cover Upper Rodge Wood to the west and trees on boundaries to fields to the south east Boundaries small or medium sized irregular fields with a mix of low cut and outgrown hedgerows. Also timber fences in places. Presence of water - LLCA CA11 Settlement: Caldicot Diversity simple Scale medium Sense of enclosure moderately open Function of Area Pastoral Arable Horticulture Recreation other Comments pastoral and arable with horse pasture in places Functional relationship and connectivity ...with wider landscape some ...with settlement none ...with adjacent assessed area? limited Corridor? Existing Habitat Connectivity Habitat Connectivity Opportunity the area may be managed as part of a wider landholding; it has habitat connectivity with the M48, and existing connectivity with woodland to the east; a regional cycle route and PROWs run through the area.

Are adjacent assessed areas mutually reliant...... visually? ...functionally Comments -

PERCEPTUAL SUSCEPTIBILITY Skyline Prominence/importance prominent Complexity simple Comments the eastern part of the area forms a local skyline Key views To settlement - From settlement the area is generally not visible from Caldicot but forms part of the backcloth to Caerwent Landmarks - Detractors - Intervisibility Site observation high ...to key features ...from key places Comments visible from valley to the north Tranquillity Noise sources roads Views of development some Presence of people infrequent Summary medium Comments the area is bounded by the M48 in cutting to the north which reduces tranquillity and is crossed and bounded by minor roads and a disused quarry Settlement edge Pre C20th edge C20-21st edge Nature of edge Form of edge Comments n/a

Visual relationship and connectivity ...with settlement limited ...with wider landscape some ...with adjacent assessed area some Setting Comments the area is part of the hillsides south of Caerwent

Receptors Sensitivity rural residents high urban residents high LLCA CA11 Settlement: Caldicot long distance/public footpaths high roads/rail/cycleways medium Comments the area is visible on the hillsides to residents, PROW users through the site and from adjacent roads including the M48

OTHER Other factors - Potential Improvements (if no development) strengthen hedgerows and trees Mitigation (if development) -