Malmesbury LIDL A429 Road, Malmesbury SN16, UK

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment in connection with proposed LIDL Malmesbury

SPP3010 December2017 Swan Paul Partnership Ltd Rev A FEb 2018 REv B 140218 4 Chartfi eld House Rev C 230218 Castle Street Rev D 020718 Taunton TA1 4AS Rev E 250718 Tel: 01823 282971 Rev F 301018 email: [email protected] web: www,swanpaul.co.uk CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Scope of Assessment 2.0 Assessment Methodology 2.1 Introduction 2.2 Landscape Baseline Methodology 2.3 Visual Baseline Methodology 2.4 Assessment and Mitigation Methodology 3.0 The Policy Context 3.1 Introduction 3.2 National Planning Policy Framework ‐ March 2012 3.3 The Local Development Framework 3.4 Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan 3.5 Malmesbury Neighbourhood Plan (2015) 4.0 Baseline Conditions 4.1 Site Context 4.2 Site Appraisal 4.3 The Landscape Baseline 4.4 The Visual Baseline 4.5 Baseline Conclusion 5.0 Potential Sources of Impact and the Mitigation Proposals 5.1 Introduction 5.2 The Development Proposals and Potential Sources of Impact 5.3 Proposed Mitigation 6.0 The Landscape and Visual Analysis – Appraisal of Effects 6.1 Introduction 6.2 The Visual Effects 6.3 The Viewpoint Photographs Analysis 6.4 The Landscape Effects 6.5 The Cumulative Effects 6.6 Residual Effects 7.0 Conclusion 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Mitigation 7.3 Visual Impacts – Conclusion 7.5 Landscape Impacts ‐ Conclusion 8.0 Appendices

1.0 Introduction

1.1 The Development

1.1.1 Swan Paul Partnership Ltd is instructed by Rapleys LLP on behalf of Lidl UK GmbH to prepare this landscape and visual impact assessment (LVIA). This relates to the proposed installation of a new Lidl store on land east of the A429 at Malmesbury, Wiltshire; together with associated hard standings and mitigation planting.

1.1.2 The proposed site for the development is to the northern end of a parcel of agricultural land which is currently utilised for grazing.

1.1.3 A detailed description of the development is given in Section 5 as part of the development description and can be viewed in Drawing SPP007 Outline Sketch Landscape, the initial design prior to amendments and SPP009 Mitigation Plan, the final design.

1.1.4 Throughout this document measurements are provided of distances to and from the site of various elements. For the avoidance of doubt this should be taken to mean the site centre at grid reference 393802, 186871.

1.2 Scope of Assessment

1.2.1 The report will consider the potential impact of these proposals, if any, from the surrounding areas both on views and the landscape and if necessary recommend appropriate mitigation. Its purpose is to inform and enhance the design of the proposed development and assist the Local Authority in its consideration of the proposal. During the assessment, effects on features identified as important to the landscape quality, or effects on the landscape character of the site and its setting are assessed together with effects on views of the site and its setting, or visual amenity.

1.2.2 The objectives of the assessment are to:

 Describe and evaluate the landscape and visual amenity of the site and surrounding area which may be affected by the proposed development;  Identify and consider any effects on landscape or visual amenity, associated with the proposed development;  Set out mitigation measures which could be incorporated into the scheme design and are proposed in order to avoid, reduce or remedy potential adverse effects;  Describe any enhancements of the landscape or visual amenity incorporated into the design of the proposed development.  To enable the Determining Authority to make a decision on the planning application based on the objective analysis of the above factors.

1.2.3 This LVIA is supported by the following drawings, included in Appendix Section 8. All photographs were taken during the site appraisals, undertaken during November 207. The drawings are:

 Drawing SPP01 Site Location Plan

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 Drawing SPP02 Landscape Designations  Drawing SPP03 Habitat Appraisal  Drawing SPP04 Heritage Appraisal  Drawing SPP05 Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV)  Drawing SPP06 Viewpoint Locations  Drawing SPP07 Initial Sketch Landscape  Drawing SPP08 Tree Survey  Drawing SPP09 Mitigation Plan  Drawing SPP10 a‐c Mitigation Images

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2.0 Assessment Methodology

2.1 Introduction

2.1.1 The methodology used for assessing the landscape and visual effects of the proposed development is based on the recommendations and guidance published by The Landscape Institute and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment’s ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (GLVIA)’, third edition released April 2013. The guidance is not prescriptive, it concentrates on principles and process, but does not provide a detailed ‘recipe’ that is to be followed in every case. Swan Paul has therefore used this guidance to formulate a methodology which we believe is appropriate for purpose.

2.1.2 GLVIA3 is also written and in accordance with clarification 1/13 issued by the above. This gives further guidance on determining ‘significance’ and where the differences lie between EIA assessment and Non EIA landscape assessment. As this development is one of the latter, point 4 of this document will apply and states:

• 4 ‐ “For Non‐EIA Landscape assessment and Visual Impact Appraisal: In carrying out appraisals, the same principles and process as LVIA may be applied but, in so doing, it is not required to establish whether the effects arising are or are not significant, given that the exercise is not being undertaken for EIA purposes. The reason is that should a landscape professional apply LVIA principles and processes in carrying out an appraisal and then go on to determine that certain effects would be likely be significant, given the term ‘significant’ is enshrined in EIA Regulations, such a judgement could trigger the requirement for a formal EIA. The emphasis on likely ‘significant effects’ in formal LVIA stresses the need for an approach that is proportional to the scale of the development.”

2.1.3 Clauses 3.32 – 3.36 of the GLVIA3 document give guidelines for the judgement of the significance of effects. As this this study is an LVIA and not a supporting chapter to a full EIA report, Swan Paul has used the guidelines to establish if any effects will be ‘substantial’, rather than ‘significant’. This methodology therefore establishes a word scale to establish a distinction between levels of effect (3.34 GLVIA3) and these are described in the tables 6 and 7 of this LVIA.

2.1.4 Identifying and describing the effects of a proposal needs to assess the scale of the effect it will have on the landscape character and visual amenity. These are determined through looking at the sensitivity and magnitude of both.

• “Sensitivity”‐ (The nature of the receptor) ‐ A term applied to specific receptors, combining judgments of the susceptibility of the receptor to the specific type of change or development proposed and the value related to that receptor.”

• “Magnitude“ (The nature of the effect) ‐ A term that combines judgments about the size and scale of the effect of the area over which it occurs, whether it is reversible or irreversible and whether it is short or long term in duration.”

In a landscape and visual impact appraisal, landscape and visual receptors need to be identified:

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 Landscape receptors include the elements that physically form that landscape, its perceptual qualities and character.  Visual receptors are the people who will be affected by changes in views or visual amenity at different places. Different types of receptors may have different levels of sensitivity that can also affect the magnitude of the development for the landscape and visual receptor. In this landscape and visual appraisal, landscape and visual receptors need to be identified:

2.1.5 Landscape and visual impact appraisal requires a combination of objective analysis and subjective professional judgment. It follows a defined methodology based on published guidance comprising a combination of desk studies and field surveys, with subsequent analysis. The desk study includes reference to other studies and landscape character assessments, including those undertaken at a national, regional and local level. It involves analysis and evaluation of the baseline, including landscape features, landscape character, and views available of the site and the effects on them likely to arise from the proposed development. In outline, the appraisal involves:

 A site survey and inspection of publicly accessible viewpoints with views of the site, including a photographic survey;  A desk study to review landscape designations; a review of published landscape characterisation to define areas of distinct character, with a description of their distinguishing characteristics and qualities;  An evaluation of the landscape of the site, its context and setting and the sensitivity of the site and the receiving landscapes, including their ability to accommodate the changes associated with the proposed development;  Analysis of the sensitivity of the visual receptors and their ability to accommodate change, based upon a viewpoint survey;  The identification of potential landscape and visual effects, their magnitude and scale;  A consideration of cumulative landscape and visual effects, if relevant;  Consideration of mitigation and enhancement measures to avoid, reduce or remedy detrimental effects on the landscape or on views;  And an assessment of the scale of the impacts, with design and committed mitigation measures in place. 2.1.6 The extent of the study area is determined by the nature and scale of the development and the likely sphere of influence within which substantial effects could be expected (GLVIA3 clause 5.2). For this development, a study area within a 5km radius has been selected for the wider implications of change to the baseline conditions. For the more detailed site level effects a distance of 0.5‐1.0km from the site red line boundary is considered appropriate.

2.2 Landscape Baseline Methodology

2.2.1 Landscape receptors include elements of the physical landscape or landscape fabric, for example vegetation, boundaries, landform, land use and other landscape features. These are combinations of features and patterns, which give rise to particular characteristics or landscape character, and which may be affected by the proposed development.

2.2.2 The potential landscape receptors include:

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 Topography that provides a backdrop or obscures views.  Existing land, water bodies and vegetation that is part of the setting of the site and the selected study area.  The value of landscape receptors can also reflect areas with landscape designations such as National Parks, AONB’s, SSSI’s etc.  Landscapes that help define regional and local landscape character.  Landscape tranquility.

2.2.3 The landscape character baseline is based on fieldwork observations and reference to other landscape studies and landscape character assessments. Assessments are ideally prepared at different scales that should fit together as a nested series or a hierarchy of landscape character types and/or areas, such that each level of assessment adds more detail to the one above. The three main levels identified by Natural England are: national and regional scale; local authority scale; and local scale.

2.2.4 Landscape Value As part of the baseline description the GLVIA 3 guidelines state that the value of the potentially affected landscapes should be considered in order to help inform the sensitivity of the receptor and its susceptibility to change. This should consider the value not only of the site and its immediate environs, but also the other landscape receptors considered within the study area. Landscapes or their component parts may be valued at the community, local, national or international levels. A review of existing landscape designations is usually a starting point but the value attached to undesignated landscapes also needs to be considered. This assessment therefore examines the landscape and considers the potential value using the following terminology:

 Excellent Value ‐ Areas of very high quality landscape, probably within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or National Parks, but not exclusively so, having outstanding scenic values as well as quality managed landscapes. They may be nationally important in historical or cultural terms. Visitors and tourists will make special journeys to view and perhaps stay.  Good Value ‐These areas are of particularly outstanding regional or local quality and may have a designated protection by the planning authority for example conservation areas, heritage listings, SSSI’s or other national habitat designations. They will also be of high scenic qualities with well‐managed landscapes.  Average Value ‐ Landscapes that have an attractive quality, are unspoilt and are well maintained and enjoyed on a local level. Unlikely to have any designations.  Fair Value ‐ These areas are of landscapes that have been changed and are unlikely to match with the local character. Possibly related to urban areas or spoilt by adjacent developments.  Poor Value ‐Landscapes that have been neglected or run down that have very little character and may need restoring. Any development may enable an improvement to such a landscape, by giving it a positive use.

2.2.5 This site is not set within a designated landscape and the same parts of the GLVIA3 suggest guidelines for determining Value in undesignated landscapes. These are to be determined through a combination of desk study and site analysis of the factors that are considered to

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influence value in this location and described in Box 5.1 (p84) of the Guidelines. The list is not prescriptive but can include the following:  Landscape Quality (condition): A measure of the physical state of the landscape. It may include the extent to which typical character is represented in individual areas, the intactness of the landscape and the condition of individual elements.  Scenic Quality: The term used to describe landscapes that appeal primarily to the senses (primarily but not wholly the visual senses).  Rarity: The presence of rare elements or features in the landscape or the presence of a rare landscape character type.  Representativeness: Whether the landscape is contains a particular character and/or element which are considered particularly important examples.  Conservation Interests: The presence of features of wildlife, earth science, archaeological or historical or cultural interest.  Recreation Value: Evidence that the landscape is valued for recreational activity where experience of the landscape is important.  Perceptual Aspects: A landscape may be valued for its perceptual qualities, notably wildness or tranquility.  Associations: Some landscapes are associated with particular people, such as artists or writers or events in history.

Some of these elements are considered directly in the baseline studies section of this report and some may be considered within separate site survey and record notes (if of a lesser relevance). They are then distilled into the overall landscape ‘Value’ rating stated in the baseline studies.

2.3 Visual Baseline Methodology

2.3.1 The GLVIA 3 states that visual receptors are always people and the baseline studies will identify some of the people within the study area who will be affected by the changes in views and visual amenity as defined by specific viewpoints. The viewpoints should be assessed for their susceptibility to change and the value attached to particular views. The nature of views should also be considered in terms of whether they are direct, glimpsed or oblique and whether they will have seasonal variation.

2.3.2 Desk Study The desk study includes computer studies to test the visibility of the proposed development, this is known as Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) mapping and has been carried out in accordance with GLVIA3 (Clause 6.11) with a maximum height of the development set in this case at 9m and taking an eye level sweep across the study landscape at 1.5m above ground levels. The ZTV map is used to identify the general locations and extent of the visual envelope for the proposed development. This only uses terrain data and does not take into account potential screening features such as vegetation and structures. From this plan a representative selection of viewpoints has been chosen to give a fair reflection of public views that may be possible from the surrounding area. These viewpoints are then tested at the site analysis stage, which in line with GLVIA3 (clause 6.10) are assessed for their effects on potential visibility by field study see how conditions ‘on the ground’ relate to the ZTV plan and whether a particular viewpoint is suitable for inclusion in the analysis.

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2.3.3 Photography Much debate surrounds the focal length of the camera that represents best the image that is seen with the human eye. The photomontages used in this assessment follow best practice set out in the Landscape Institute’s Advice Note 01/11 “Photography and Photomontage in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment”. The guide recommends using a lens with a focal length equivalent to 50 mm for a 35 mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera, and a horizontal field of view of a little under 40 degrees. The camera used for the appraisal photography was a Canon EOS 1200D digital SLR camera; photographs were taken with a focal length equivalent to approximately 50mm on a 35 mm SLR camera with a viewing height of 1.5m.

2.3.4 Landscape photography includes panoramic views requiring a sequence of photographs to be taken across the view. Where this approach is taken, a series of overlapping photographs are digitally merged together in Adobe Photoshop to provide a panorama approximating to the normal field of view in a landscape context. The viewpoints are located with their Ordnance Survey grid reference and height above Ordnance Datum.

2.4 Assessment and Mitigation Methodology

2.4.1 The degree of the likely landscape effects associated with the proposed development is determined by relating the ability of the landscape to accommodate the changes, referred to as sensitivity, and the magnitude of the changes to which they would be subjected. Tables 1 & 2 define the categories of landscape and visual sensitivity to change and Table 3 &4 define magnitude. Criteria for degrees of value or sensitivity, magnitude of change, and scale of effects, are set out in the following tables.

Landscape Sensitivity 2.4.2 Landscape sensitivity combines judgments on the ability of the landscape receptors to accommodate the type of development proposed without serious change to the baseline conditions and value (2.2.7). It relates to the stability of landscape character, the degree to which that character is robust enough to continue and to be able to recuperate from loss or damage.

Table 1: Landscape Sensitivity Level Definition

High: A landscape of national/ international importance; Many landscape elements sensitive to disturbance; No or Limited potential for substitution or replacement. Landscapes of excellent value. Medium A landscape of regional importance; Some features sensitive to disturbance; Potential for substitution or replacement. Landscapes of good value. Low: A landscape of Local importance; Few features sensitive to disturbance; Good potential for substitution or replacement.

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Landscapes of average to fair value. Negligible: A landscape of minimal importance with no special scenic, ecological or historic designations. No features sensitive to change. Changes may improve character and value. Landscapes of poor value.

Visual Sensitivity 2.4.3 The sensitivity of views is affected by factors such as the landscape value (2.2.7) and how many viewers are affected and the scale of the proposed development in the overall view. The context of the viewpoint may also contribute to the ability to accommodate change, for example, a view from residential properties or from a valued landscape is regarded as less able to accommodate change, than a view from an industrial context. Table 2 defines the categories of visual sensitivity.

Table 2: Visual Sensitivity Level Definition

High: A view from residential or community properties or experienced by many viewers; Daily, prolonged or sustained views available over a long period, or where the view of the landscape is an important attractant; A view from a valued landscape, or a nationally important recreation facility. Landscapes of excellent value. Medium: A view from moderate numbers of residential or community properties or experienced by moderate numbers of viewers; Frequent open views available, or where the view of the landscape is an attractant; A view from a valued landscape, or a regionally important recreation facility. Landscapes of good value. Low: A view from small numbers of residential or community properties or experienced by small numbers of viewers; Occasional open views available, viewers are pursuing activities such as sports or outdoor work; A view from a landscape of moderate importance, or a locally important recreation facility. Landscapes of average to fair value. Negligible: A view of low importance, available to few viewers or where the view of the landscape is not the reason for visiting; Glimpsed views; passing views available to travellers in vehicles; A view available to few viewers where the development is a relatively unimportant element in the view, and with good potential for mitigation of adverse effects. Landscapes of poor value.

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Table 3: Magnitude – Landscape Effects Magnitude of impact Criteria High Total loss, major alteration or major enhancement of the landscape character, features and key elements Medium Partial loss, alteration or enhancement to landscape character and / or elements Low Minor loss, slight change to character and / or elements Negligible Very minor change to character and / or elements None No loss or alteration

Table 4: Magnitude – Visual Effects Magnitude of impact Criteria High Total loss, major alteration or major enhancement of the visual resource, features and key elements Medium Partial loss, alteration or enhancement to visual resource and / or elements Low Minor loss, slight change to visual resource and / or elements Negligible Very minor change to visual resource and / or elements None No loss or alteration

Assessment Criteria 2.4.4 The scale of the likely landscape and visual effects of the proposed development is determined by the ability of the landscape to accommodate the changes arising from the development proposal (the sensitivity), and the degree of change this will potentially create in the landscape or view to which they will be subjected (the magnitude). Previous methodologies (in GLVIA 1 and 2) put more emphasis on tabulating these effects to support the discussion and help the reader understand how a particular decision on the scale of effect has been made. GLVIA 3 is moving away from this approach as it can lead to a formulaic response and suggests that effects are described in detail in text form. Swan Paul has found that the typical audience receiving an appraisal/ assessment for consideration can be more comfortable with the previous method and find reports easier to understand if the tabulated method of arriving at a scale of effect is retained in support of the text. The tabulated impacts should not be read in isolation, the text provides a detailed description of the effects and explains any variation that may arise from the more formulaic methodology provided by the tabulated method. In this assessment, the following table (Table 5) is used to grade the scale of effect from substantial through moderate to slight, negligible and no change, and a definition of the grades and how they may impact on the landscape or visual resource is defined in Table 6 and Table 7. These should be read in conjunction with the detailed description of effects for each receptor in the text.

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Table 5: Scale of Effect Therefore magnitude + sensitivity = Scale of Effect MAGNITUDE SENSITIVITY OF RECEPTOR OF EFFECT Negligible Low Medium High None No change No change No change No change Negligible Negligible Negligible/ Slight Slight/ Slight Moderate Low Negligible/ Slight Slight/ Moderate Slight Moderate Medium Slight Slight/ Moderate Moderate/ Moderate Substantial High Slight/ Moderate Moderate/ Substantial Moderate Substantial

2.4.5 Scale of Effect – Definitions A definition of how the terms used to describe the scale of effect in Table 5 may apply to the development is shown in more detail in Tables 6 and 7 below. The tables establish a level of effect that is judged to be the most substantial towards the top of the scale and the least substantial towards the lower end. The assessment text will provide supporting information on whether the levels of effect can be considered very adverse for the landscape or visual resource in question. In general this is likely to be the case for effects that are judged to be moderate/ substantial or substantial. The effects will also be assessed after any mitigation has been applied to reduce or offset the change. The effect can additionally be described in the following ways:  Type of effect: Direct, indirect, secondary or cumulative.  Duration of effect: Short, medium or long‐term.  Nature of effect: Permanent or temporary and positive, neutral or negative.

Table 6: Scale of Effect ‐ Impacts on Landscape Measure of Definition effects

Substantial The proposed scheme would change the character and/or appearance of a sensitive landscape for a long period of time or permanently. The proposed scheme would result in effects that are at a complete variance within the landform, scale and pattern of landscape and could permanently degrade, diminish or destroy the integrity of valued characteristic features, elements and / or setting : or Considerable improvement to the landscape over a wide area sufficient to alter perceptions and upgrade overall landscape character. Moderate/ Considerable adverse change to the features, elements, character, or Substantial: quality of a sensitive landscape, with limited scope for mitigation (or lesser change in very sensitive landscape); or Some improvement to the landscape over an area sufficient to alter perceptions and moderately improve landscape character.

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Moderate: Discernible adverse change to landscape character, features, or elements of medium‐high sensitivity, but with scope for mitigation; or Positive improvements to landscape character and quality. Slight/ Some adverse change to the existing landscape character which may affect Moderate: an area of recognised landscape quality, but has good scope for mitigation; or Perceptible improvement to the existing landscape quality. Slight: Localised or limited adverse change to the existing landscape character with considerable scope for mitigation; or Localised improvement to the existing landscape quality. Negligible/ Very slight change to the existing landscape character and quality, or the Slight change is difficult to discern and the impact is neutral. Negligible/ The proposed scheme is appropriate in its context and makes no negative None: or positive landscape impacts.

Table 7: Scale of Effect ‐ Impacts on Visual Amenity Measure of Definition effects

Substantial: Major visual intrusion experienced from settlements or numbers of properties and/or from sensitive public viewpoints where the development would cause a large deterioration in the existing view with limited scope for mitigation (or a lesser intrusion in highly sensitive views); or An improvement in the view, sufficient to provide benefits to visual amenity over a wide area. Moderate/ Visual intrusion on settlements or numbers of properties and/or from Substantial: public viewpoints where the development would cause deterioration in the existing view, but with scope for mitigation; or A reduction in visual intrusion, or considerable improvement in the view. Moderate: Noticeable visual intrusion with elements at variance with the scale and quality of the existing visual amenity but with scope for mitigation; or Good potential for reduction in visual intrusion, or very noticeable improvement in the view. Slight/ Minor visual intrusion attributable to the development or a perceptible Moderate: deterioration in the existing view, with scope for mitigation; or Localised reduction in visual intrusion & noticeable improvement in the local view. Slight The proposed scheme would cause small adverse changes to the visual amenity but would affect a limited number of receptors. Good scope for mitigation; or Localised improvement to the existing visual quality. Negligible/ The proposed scheme would result in minimal change to the views and Slight would be difficult to differentiate from its surroundings. It would affect few receptors; or The proposed scheme may have the potential to slightly improve the visual quality. Negligible/ The proposed scheme is appropriate in its context and makes no negative None: or positive visual impacts.

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3.0 Policy Context

3.1 Introduction

3.1.1 This assessment will consider the national, regional and local planning policy which relates to landscape and visual matters and is of relevance to the proposed development at this particular site.

3.2 National Planning Policy Framework

The National Planning Policy Framework 2012 (NPPF) states that “The purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development” and that development should seek “positive improvements in the quality of the built, natural and historic environment” and should improve the conditions in which people live, work, travel and take leisure. Developments should also seek to perform an economic, social and environmental role in their planning and these should not be undertaken in isolation.

3.3 The Local Development Framework

3.3.1 Under the planning system reforms introduced by the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 local plans were referred to as 'Local Development Frameworks'. The LDF comprises a portfolio of documents that together set out the planning policies of the area and many Local Authorities still refer to them as Local Plans.

3.3.2 In Wiltshire, the Local Plan includes the Wiltshire Core Strategy incorporating saved policies from district local plans, Chippenham Site Allocations Plan, Minerals and Waste Plans and Malmesbury Neighbourhood Plan. The Wiltshire Core Strategy Development Plan was adopted in January 2015. Policies relevant to landscape and visual matters from the Plan for this development would include:

The Wiltshire Core Strategy begins with a number of strategic objectives to deliver the vision for Wiltshire and provide direction for more specific policies. The site falls within the Malmesbury Community Area. Noted as being predominantly rural in character with links to Cirencester to the north and includes the market town of Malmesbury and rural villages including Crudwell and Great Somerford. The Malmesbury Area Strategy recognises Malmesbury as an important retail centre for the surrounding area. It also notes in issues and considerations that many residents within the town travel outside the community area to shop. Core Policy 13 Spatial Strategy: Malmesbury Community Area states that any development in the Malmesbury Community Area should be in accordance with settlement strategy set out in Core Policy 1. Specific issues relating to landscape and visual matters to be addressed in planning for the Area include:  Future development will be carefully managed to ensure the high quality built environment, including the important historic assets, such as Malmesbury Abbey and Conservation Area, are protected. Future development should be of high quality design and well integrated with the existing built form and landscape setting of the town, including using local materials where appropriate  All development within the Community Area must conserve the designated landscape of

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the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and its setting, and where possible enhance its locally distinctive characteristics

Core Policy 51 seeks to protect, conserve and enhance Wiltshire’s distinctive character. The term landscape in this policy relates to the built, historic and natural environment in urban, peri urban and rural areas. There are a number of landscape character assessments (LCA’s) which cover Wiltshire that support this policy until they are updated. The two relevant for this assessment include Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment (2005) and North Wiltshire Landscape Assessment (2004). We have examined the slightly more recent assessment of 2005 as it encompasses the whole of Wiltshire however, it should be noted that it is over 13 years old and the county is now a unitary authority. Policy CP51: Landscape All Development should protect, conserve and where possible enhance landscape character and must not have a harmful impact upon landscape character, while any negative impacts must be mitigated as far as possible through sensitive design and landscape measures. Proposals should be informed by and sympathetic to the distinctive character areas identified in the relevant Landscape Character Assessment(s) and any other relevant assessments and studies. In particular, proposals will need to demonstrate that the following aspects of landscape character have been conserved and where possible enhanced through sensitive design, landscape mitigation and enhancement measures:  The locally distinctive pattern and species composition of natural features such as trees, hedgerows, woodland, field boundaries, watercourses and waterbodies.  The locally distinctive character of settlements and their landscape settings.  The separate identity of settlements and the transition between man‐made and natural landscapes at the urban fringe.  Visually sensitive skylines, soils, geological and topographical features.  Landscape features of cultural, historic and heritage value.  Important views and visual amenity. o Tranquillity and the need to protect against intrusion from light pollution, noise, and motion.  Landscape functions including places to live, work, relax and recreate.  Special qualities of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and the New Forest National Park, where great weight will be afforded to conserving and enhancing landscapes and scenic beauty. o Proposals for development outside of an AONB that is sufficiently prominent (in terms of its siting or scale) to have an impact on the area’s special qualities (as set out in the relevant management plan), must also demonstrate that it would not adversely affect its setting.

Policy CP52 Green Infrastructure sets out to conserve and enhance the natural environment seeking to protect and enhance green infrastructure.

3.4 Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan 2013‐18 3.4.1 The edge of the Cotswolds’ AONB is approximately 1.5km to the west and is therefore outside the site. The section on Landscape states: “The surroundings of the AONB are important to its landscape and scenic beauty. Views out of the AONB and into it from surrounding areas can be

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very significant in this regard. The Board has published a Position Statement on development in the setting of the Cotswolds’ AONB”.

3.4.2 The Position Statement covering development in the setting of the AONB cites the application of paragraphs 109, 115, 116, 123 and 125 of the NPPF to encourage the elimination or reduction of harm on the AONB and cites the following as examples to be so treated:  development which would have a significant visual impact on views out of the AONB or between parts of the AONB (and subject to separate guidance and policies views into the AONB) including consideration of cumulative impact of several similar forms of development;  loss of tranquility through the introduction or increase of lighting and or noise (including consideration of cumulative impact of several similar forms of development);  other environmental impact and forms of pollution like dust;  introduction of abrupt change of landscape character (including the addition of tall structures, masts, wind turbines etc.)  loss or harm to heritage assets and natural landscape, particularly if these are contiguous with the AONB;  impact on special associations and interrelationships of settings (for example between the Bath World Heritage Site and the AONB)  change of use of land where of a significant enough scale to cause harm to landscape character; and  development individually or cumulatively giving rise to significantly increased traffic flows to and from the AONB (resulting in loss of tranquility and erosion of the character of rural roads and lanes);  inappropriate use of external materials, external colours, reflective surfaces, and inappropriate landscaping.

3.4.3 Policies included within the Management Plan to achieve this therefore include:

 Policy LP1: The key characteristics, principal elements, and special qualities (including tranquillity), which form the natural beauty of the Cotswolds landscape are conserved and where possible enhanced.  Policy LP2: Development proposals26 and changes in land use and management, both within and outside the AONB, take account of guidance and advice published by the Board.

3.5 The Malmesbury Neighbourhood Plan (2015)

3.5.1 The neighbourhood plan is split into two volumes, Volume 1 – The Main Body of the document and Volume 2 – The Design Guide. The Wiltshire Core Strategy requires the Plan Area to accommodate development and at a local level Neighbourhood Plans provide an opportunity for a community led approach to determining more detail on the location and form of such development at a local level. Sections of Volume 1 with relevance to landscape and visual matters for this development include:  Section 6: Protecting Malmesbury heritage and setting; via the following objectives, policy and tasks:

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o Policy 13: The Neighbourhood Plan Design Guide as set out in Volume II of this Plan should be taken into consideration in all developments to ensure a high quality of design that respects the specific character of Malmesbury Town and the surrounding area. To be considered via a number of development tasks: o Task 6.1: Take note of the aims and objectives of the Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan. o Task 6.2: The Settlement Assessment must be used when considering new development within Malmesbury Town and the Conservation Area Management Plan should be referenced o Task 6.3: Investigate extending and improving footpaths and cycle ways o Task 6.4: Ensure the biodiversity of the river valleys is maintained

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4.0 Baseline Conditions

4.1 Site Context

4.1.1 The land being considered for this development lies approximately 0.8km south east of Malmesbury town centre on land to the east of the A429 and opposite an existing Waitrose store. The site occurs entirely within the boundary of Wiltshire Council. The proposed site falls from the south east north and westwards from 75.65 AOD – 75.61AOD. Access is gained via a field gate along the north western boundary. There is a public rights of way that can be found along its southern boundary.

4.2 Site Appraisal

Figure 1 General View across the Site from Entrance Field Gate

4.2.1 The site consists of one agricultural field currently utilised for grazing. The site boundaries consist of hedgerows along the east, west and north with intermittent mature trees. The hedgerow to the east is sporadic with sections of mature hedge and new hedge with field gate offering access to pasture fields to the east.

Figure two Eastern Boundary

Along the northern edge can be found a mix of semi mature whitebeam with a privet and hawthorn hedge. The North West corner consists of a dense pocket of hedge and tree planting effectively screening the A429. The land rises up again northwards from the River Avon to countryside beyond.

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Figure three Northern Boundary

Along the western edge, semi mature ash trees and mix hedge of wayfaring trees, privet, rose, brambles, hawthorn and blackthorn can be found with a timber post and rail fence along the boundary. The western section is elevated 2m above the A429 gradually fading northwards to 0.5m. This vegetated embankment is patchy in sections and there are seasonal filtered views across to the new Waitrose and glimpses of the town beyond.

Figure Four Western Boundary

There is little hedge or tree cover along the southern boundary. There is a public right of way and post and rail fencing along its perimeter that runs between pasture towards Priory Lane and The Knoll off the B4042. Along the southern boundary the rear curtilages of residential properties can be seen. The curtilage edge is staggered with a mix of hard and soft boundaries and the properties varying between single and double storey with windows facing the proposed site.

Figure Five Southern Boundary

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4.2.3 Landscape Value The Site: In the immediate environs of the site the busy fast moving A429 is evident although being slightly elevated along the southern edge it becomes more noticeable moving northwards on site. There is however, a perception of open countryside looking northwards where little or no build form is evident. Views to the west include filtered views towards Waitrose roofline. Filtered views to the East over the river plain of the River Avon is partially visible with no leaf cover in winter but is primarily pasture land. The site is only access by those using the public right of way to the south and those with views across the landscape from the immediate dwellings backing onto the proposed site however the land does not have any landscape designations and therefore using the criteria discussed in section 2.2.4 and 2.2.5 the landscape value is considered to be ‘Average ’.

4.3 The Landscape Baseline

4.3.1 The methodology for establishing the landscape baseline is described in section 2.2. This section considers only the relevant landscape designations and strategies in the context of the landscape and visual issues of the site and development.

4.3.2 National Landscape Character Natural England (formerly The Countryside Agency) carried out an assessment, published in 1999, to value all England’s landscapes and group their characters at a macro level. The site falls close to the boundary of 2 converging character areas with its local area of influence and context drawing from both. They include: Area 108 Upper Thames Clay Vales and Area 117 Avon Vales. The site falls within Character Areas 117, Avon Vales. The key characteristics of the area are:  An undulating clay vale with a mix of arable and pasture.  Small‐ and medium‐sized fields with mostly hedgerow boundaries with few hedgerow trees, varying in shape from irregular piecemeal enclosure to rectilinear planned enclosure.  Numerous low ridges with local views over towns and villages.  Transport corridors along roads and watercourses, heavily influential on all development in the NCA.  Attractive stone‐built centres to market towns that reflect the former agricultural productivity and wealth of the area.

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Figure 3 – National Landscape Character Type

4.3.3 The adjacent NCA is Area 108 Upper Thames Clay Vales, The key characteristics of the area are:  Low‐lying clay‐based flood plains encircle the Midvale Ridge. Superficial deposits, including alluvium and gravel terraces, spread over 40 per cent of the area, creating gently undulating topography. The Upper Jurassic and Cretaceous clays and the wet valley bottoms give rise to enclosed pasture, contrasting with the more settled, open, arable lands of the gravel.  Woodland cover is low at only about 3 per cent, but hedges, hedgerow trees and field trees are frequent. Watercourses are often marked by lines of willows and, particularly in the Aylesbury Vale and Cotswold Water Park, native black poplar.  Brick and tile from local clays, timber and thatch are traditional building materials across the area, combined with limestone near the Cotswolds and occasional clunch and wichert near the Chilterns.  Settlement is sparse on flood plains, apart from at river crossings, where there can be large towns, such as Abingdon. Aylesbury and Bicester are major urban centres, and the outer suburbs of Oxford and Swindon spread into this NCA. Market towns and villages are strung along the spring lines of the Chilterns and Downs. Major routes include mainline rail, canals, a network of roads including the M40 and M4 and The Ridgeway and Thames Path National Trails.

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Figure 4 – National Landscape Character Type

4.3.4 County Landscape Character‐ Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment (December 2005) The Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment provides a classification of the whole of Wiltshire`s landscape, which can be used for making assessments of landscape character for development management and as a basis in the formulation of Landscape Strategies in the future. The assessment identifies sixteen different landscape types across the county. The landscape types are then sub divided further into component landscape character areas. The extent of the landscape types and character areas are shown on. The site lies within the Character Type 16 Limestone Lowland and landscape character area 16A ‘Malmesbury – Corsham Limestone Lowland’ and is also very close to the border of the adjacent Character Type 11 ‘Rolling Clay Lowland’ just to the north.

4.3.5 Character Area 16A ‘Malmesbury‐Corsham Limestone Lowlands’ covers a large swathe of northwest Wiltshire extending from Bradford‐on‐Avon in the south to the Kemble Airfield in the far north. The county border constrains the area to the north and west. The boundary to the

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east is a less distinct transition, occurring with the change in underlying geology from limestone to clay.

Key Characteristics include:  Gently undulating lowland farmland over underlying geology of predominantly mudstone and limestone with some pockets of clay.  Field pattern predominantly large geometric field typical of eighteenth and nineteenth century enclosure with small scale irregular fields of medieval pattern close to close to settlement.  More open areas of higher ground to the west offer panoramic views over the type, elsewhere occasional woodland blocks, copses and frequent hedgerow trees give a greater sense of enclosure, with intermittent views.  Numerous rivers forming shallow valleys, with the watercourses sometimes lined with willows.  Settlements in the form of historic market towns, villages and scattered farmsteads distributed throughout the type linked by network of rural roads.

4.3.6 Within Character Type 11 the site falls within Character Area 11B ‘Minety Rolling Clay Lowland’. The Minety Rolling Clay Lowland is more wooded and sparsely settled than the others in the type, showing the strong influence of its historic land use as part of the Royal Hunting Forest of Braydon. The central area is crossed by straight minor roads with sparse dwellings scattered along them and at crossroads. To east and west the pattern is more like the rest of the type with small nucleated villages such as Cloatley, Minety and Charlton with its historic parkland, linked by winding roads. Key Characteristics include:  Gently rolling lowland based on Clay.  Variable field pattern with network of full hedgerows and mature hedgerow trees.  Scattered settlement of towns, small villages and farmsteads, many using vernacular materials of brick, half‐timber, stone, tiles and thatch.  Roads largely minor and rural with a few trunk roads and sections of motorway.  Views vary from semi‐enclosed by intact hedgerows, riparian vegetation and woodland blocks to more open with views to the rising scarps of the chalk uplands.

4.3.7 An earlier landscape assessment carried out by North Wiltshire Council published in 2004 shows the site lying within 3 areas. The map enclosed in the document is very poor but been determined to lie in Landscape Character Type Lowland Limestone and Landscape Character Area No 8 Hullavington Rolling Lowland. The Lowland Limestone is described as gently undulating lowland farmland underlain by limestone. It is described as an open landscape with broad low hills and shallow river valleys. Limestone walls boundaries in places and stone built settlements. The character area Hullavington Rolling Lowland is a large area with the site located in the top northern corner. A rural area of gently rolling hills and shallow valleys with patchwork of irregular medium sized fields ad medium sized woodlands and deciduous copses. The site does lie adjacent landscape character area No 5 Minety and Malmesbury Rolling Lowland described as being to the east of Malmesbury. Viewpoints are described as allowing wide panoramas over a patchwork of small fields and mature fields. These include views to the

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abbey and church spire on higher ground in Malmesbury. Power lines also cross the northern area. The study area and proposed site closely reflect this character area.

4.3.8 Landscape Designations The site is not situated within an area afforded statutory landscape protection e.g. National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Cotswolds AONB lies to the west of Malmesbury and at its nearest point this designation is approximately 1km to the west of the site and has no visual inter‐relationship with it. There are a number of additional designations in the vicinity of the development site, but within which it is not directly located, that would have a bearing on its setting and hence the landscape baseline. These would include:  The Harries Ground Robourne SSSI, 4.2km to the south.  Conygre Mead LNR 0.8km to the north west and Corston Quarry and Pond LNR 2.5km to the south west

4.3.9 Malmesbury Conservation Area Management Plan (CAMP) This management plan sets out Wiltshire Council’s approach to managing the future of the Malmesbury conservation area adopted in February 2010. It is informed by the Malmesbury Conservation Area Appraisal (CAA) produced by the former North Wiltshire District Council and adopted in April 2007. The character area management proposals are split into two sections: Development guidelines contain recommendations for control of development that are specific to each character area. These guidelines aim to protect the quality and interest of the areas as a whole, not only the buildings, and are primarily designed to inform planning decisions and applications.

Enhancement proposals set out medium and long‐term schemes of action that aim to make a positive impact on the quality and interest of the character area.

4.3.10 The site is adjacent Character Area 18: River Valley (Tetbury Branch). Area 18 is part of the horseshoe‐shaped river system that almost surrounds the town and is now an important public open space and amenity from the Town Bridge to the Old Station Yard. Development Guidelines of relevance include:  Resist development of the river valley to the east of the by‐pass, where this would harm the visual amenity of the Conservation Area or the river valley.  Protect a minimum twenty metre corridor alongside the river in accordance with Environment Agency recommendations

4.3.11 Habitats There are no designated habitat features within the site itself, however there is a reasonably complex pattern of land use and habitats within the wider study area including UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority habitats associated with grazing marsh, grassland and woodland. The habitats are shown on Drawing SPP‐03 Habitat Appraisal in Appendix 1. The site lies 0.2km to the south of the River Avon and is separated from it by a hedge and field which has recently been planted with woodland. Whilst the pattern of habitats in the local area provides a context in which to consider the potential landscape impacts, the impact on specific habitats will not be considered further in this appraisal.

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4.3.12 Historic Landscape Elements This appraisal seeks to concentrate on impacts to heritage assets that affect them as landscape and visual receptors – visual receptors being people at the receptor, not the receptor itself. The heritage value of the receptor itself is not within the remit of the landscape and visual appraisal; as this only seeks to assess how the landscape and visual setting of the heritage feature aids its understanding within the landscape. There are a number of historic landscape resources in the area, many of which are concentrated within the historic core of Malmesbury itself and cannot be seen in the context of the site.

Registered Parks and Gardens: The closest registered park is the Grade II, Estcourt Park, located (Ref 1001437) 5.6km northwest from the site. A Local Nature Reserve Conygre Mead (Ref 1123065) is located 0.75km northwest of the proposed site. The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Beauty (Ref 7) is 1.0km to the west of the proposed site.

Listed Buildings within a 1km radius of the site include: The Beeches G II Listed (Ref 1022264) and Burton Hill School Grade II listed (Ref 10418394) and located 0.19km and 0.35km southwest of the proposed site. Avon Mills, Outer buildings– Grade 2 (Ref 1269279) 0.18km to the west; Conservatory Cottage– Grade 2 residential (Ref 1269277) 0.16km to the west; A dense cluster of Grade II buildings run along the Malmesbury High Street, with closest being 0.26km from the site.

4.3.13 Settlements The settlement pattern is one of the town and associated small urban area of Malmesbury with scattered farms and small villages between, with major transport routes linking the larger settlements. The A429 adjacent links Malmesbury to the M4 and Cirencester to the north.

4.3.14 Agricultural Land Classification According to information found on DEFRA (Department of Food and Rural Affairs) maps now located on Natural England, the site is located on land classified as agricultural Grade 3 to the south and Grade 4 to the north of the site.

4.3.15 Landscape Value The above assessment of the landscape character and baseline resources of the study area has shown that there are some national landscape character features shown within the study area such ‘small and medium sized fields with few hedgerow trees. At a regional character level using the 2005 Wiltshire County Council Landscape Assessment, Area 16A Malmesbury ‐Corsham Limestone Lowlands the study are includes elements similar to the NCA of strong network of hedgerow and hedgerow trees ; but that there are no particularly strong or rare examples that would lift it out of the ordinary. This has resulted in no nationally recognised designation or protection being conferred upon it such as a SSSI, NNR, LNR etc. The North Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment 2004 places the proposed site just in LCA 8 Hullavington Rolling Lowland yet the site displays stronger characteristics of LCA 5 Minety and Malmesbury Rolling Lowland.

The Site: At a site level the desktop and site based analysis has established at Table 8 that again there are no particularly strong or rare landscape characteristics that would confer any special designation and that it remains representative.

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The general landscape baseline has established that it is not experienced in the setting of any designated landscape feature and has limited visibility from designated heritage assets; and that the grade of the agricultural land varies across its site from 4 to 3.

Site level analysis has also considered the qualities that can contribute to the consideration of value in undesignated landscapes and outlined in the GLVIA3 guidelines at Box 5.1 where the following points can be distilled from site notes:  The landscape is in a fair condition with agricultural boundaries poorly maintained although the existing hedgerow is patchy although the western boundary has a substantial young embankment hedgerow that suggests it is primarily maintained by the authority maintaining highways being adjacent the busy A429. There are some single mature trees within the hedgerow. It displays few general regional characteristics (North Wiltshire 2004) such as ‘continuous hedges with many mature oak and deciduous copses’.  It has a poor scenic quality with limited views to the west where the land rises to Malmesbury town centre; to the north the land falls towards the river valley slowly rising to agricultural land; to the east there are limited views over poor pasture land primarily used for horses and to the south the rear of residential curtilages on a raised small ridge.  There are no particularly rare landscape features, reflecting its lack of designation. (Examples would include limestone pavements, oxbow lakes, drumlin fields, chalk escarpments, shingle bars/lagoons etc. – and other such features often found in protected landscapes).  The site has little conservation value with the northern perimeter having greater value by nature of the dense hedgerow in this area.  There is a right of way across the southern section of the site and is poorly used. In the study area there are a number of bridle and cycle ways created from old road/ rail tracks that offer safe transit between surrounding villages and Malmesbury town rather than using the busy A429 suggest that the study area has some has recreational value if not the site itself.  It has no particular associations in the artistic fields however, the site is adjacent the Malmesbury Conservation Area. In Malmesbury town centre the Abbey is a prominent feature and in the summer the world famous WOMAD festival is held north of the proposed site at Charlton Park.

Using the criteria discussed in section 2.2 the landscape value is considered to be ‘average’.

4.4 The Visual Baseline

4.4.1 The methodology for establishing the visual baseline is described in section 2.3

4.4.2 A Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) plan at a scale of 1:20,000 has been created and is used to establish potential viewpoints from where the development may be visible and this is shown on Drawing SPP05. The locations of the assessment and appraisal photographs (the viewpoints) are shown on Drawing SPP06. For this visual impact assessment, a ZTV study area of a 5km radius was used.

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4.4.3 Within the ZTV there are some Viewpoint locations where the development site cannot be seen due to intervening vegetation, structures or other factors and this would include viewpoints 4,6 and 7. These have been included to keep the selection of viewpoints ‘representative’ as required by GLVIA 3 guidelines. The reasons for exclusion are as follows:  VP 4 ‐ cannot be seen due to the intervening vegetation and A429 road bridge  VP 6 – cannot be seen due to intervening vegetation  VP7 – cannot be seen due to intervening vegetation and topography.

4.4.4 Perception of the Proposal More emphasis is placed on where a higher density of people (receptors) is likely to view the site, for example from the adjacent footpaths and roads and whether these people are mobile or static. The most extensive and intrusive viewpoints are generally chosen to illustrate the worst potential impact of the proposed development.  WHO ‐ Visual receptors in the study area will be residents of local properties to the south, users of A429 public roads and rights of way; together with workers on adjacent agricultural land.  WHERE ‐ For this study Swan Paul has concentrated on publicly accessible viewpoints and site assessment has found these to be users of the roads and public rights of way in the immediate vicinity of the site. However, the visual baseline has also considered the wider perceptual qualities of the study area.  HOW ‐ The nature of the views and visual amenity in the area is dominated by the nature of the folded landscape and the visual foil and screening provided by the many hedges and woodlands in the area. It is therefore difficult to get long distance views across the landscape that include the site and much of the surrounding elevated land either has no public access or is so heavily vegetated that the site would not be visible.

4.4.5 Scenic Quality The immediate local area is a mix of rural and semi urban quality. Opportunities to experience this in the vicinity of the site are limited by the lack of public access or rights of way to the south and north. A dense network of hedges, individual trees and woodland copses and intervening typography within the study area also closes off many longer distance views. A mix of agricultural use and main transport routes define the immediate local area. The landscape pattern is one of residential, agriculture and pasture land. The landscape in the immediate vicinity of the site is of relatively low scenic quality with the new supermarket and busy road corridor planting. As such, the tranquility normally associated with rural landscapes is greatly reduced and the site lies on the edge of Malmesbury town centre and is not considered to be in rural open countryside.

4.4.6 Public Rights of Way No public rights of way cross the site directly however, there are a number in the area and one that runs adjacent the site accessed via the A429. This track would have direct views over the site whilst others offer filtered views from the north looking south.

4.4.7 Views from private property There are a limited number of private dwellings with direct views of the site. These are located adjacent the southern boundary and are at an elevated level to the proposed site. The garden

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curtilages of these properties face the site with the dwellings being a mix of bungalows and two storey houses; the latter having direct views over the site from their properties.

4.5 Baseline Conclusion: The Capacity of the Site to Accommodate Change

4.5.1 The capacity of the site to accommodate change is derived from the inherent landscape and visual sensitivities when considered against the specific qualities of the site and the type of development being proposed. The site is partially enclosed adjacent a busy ‘A’ road on the edge of Malmesbury town. It is screened from the A429 by a raised embankment and is overlooked from the south by the rear of residential properties. It is not in open countryside and offers little tranquility. However, due to the limited features of value on the Site and its surroundings, together with its poor agricultural land classification, the landscape of the site is considered to have a capacity to accommodate for change, with mitigation.

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5.0 Potential Sources of Impact and the Mitigation Proposals

5.1 Introduction

5.1.1 This section describes the main aspects of the proposed development which could potentially affect landscape and/or visual amenity. It also identifies features of the proposals which will assist in mitigating adverse landscape and visual impacts.

5.2 The Development Proposal and Potential Sources of Impact

5.2.1 The proposal is for a convenience supermarket and associated car parking. It is proposed that the store is located on the eastern edge with car parking on the north. Access will be gained via the A429 via a distributor road.

5.2.2 The proposed store has been designed to reflect the environment rather than being typical of the brand. The additional designed elements include the use of local stone walling features to both the building and free standing low walls on entrance to the site and a ‘living green roof’ to the complete building.

5.2.3 The main features of the development proposal which could potentially result in landscape and visual impacts are:  Activities and movement of equipment during the construction period  Changes to landform, use and pattern  Loss of existing vegetation  Access arrangements  Hard surface areas  New elements such as lighting, fencing and signage  New buildings including design and materials selection  New planting areas

5.3 Proposed Mitigation

5.3.1 There are few development schemes that do not require some mitigation measures to help reduce the perceived landscape and visual impacts and to help assimilate built development into the local landscape setting. Some mitigation measures can also bring landscape and conservation benefits to a site. Mitigation varies in scale depending on location and nature of development. In this case, the scale of development requires a small level of mitigation to assist with assimilation into the landscape setting and the site specific design response and mitigation measures can be summarised as follows:‐ During construction:  Protect existing vegetation in accordance with BS: 5837 ‘Trees in relation to construction’.  Ensure construction operations do not conflict with conservation interests such as archaeology, or the seasonal requirements of flora and fauna.  Ensure all hedges to be maintained are also protected throughout the works to ensure their longevity and future screening effects.

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During Operation:  Maintain existing hedges and all trees at to keep continuity of screening throughout the year. Where hedges are sparse to ensure a programme of native planting reinforcement and maintenance. This will create a substantial screening element to the north and east.  Consider the colour and texture of materials, particularly with fencing and site buildings, to be recessive against the backdrop of existing vegetation.  Landscape management plan in place for 5 years.  Reinforcement of existing boundaries with hedge and tree planting to effectively screen the site with a minimum 5m dense landscape buffer. It is also proposed that boundaries outside of the proposed site are also planted with native hedgerow and tree planting. This planting will be primarily to the east and south adjacent the public right of way. These proposed areas of planting will be included within the management plan.  Fences and other ancillary items to be commensurate with a rural rather than an urban image.  Possible reduction in levels to reduce height of building similar to that adjacent with the Waitrose.  Further mitigation planting to far boundaries to provide screening to residential dwellings along the B4042 with native hedgerow and tree planting.  Ensure that the proposed living green roof is monitored to ensure its survival, enhancing the environmental benefits.

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6.0 The Landscape and Visual Analysis – Appraisal of Effects

6.1 Introduction

6.1.1 This section will examine the potential impacts and effects that may be expected as a result of the development. This will take the form of an appraisal of the viewpoint photographs to assess the potential visual effects, followed by an analysis of the landscape resources identified in the baseline studies, to determine the potential landscape effects. It will then go on to consider any cumulative or residual effects that may be relevant to the development. In line with GLVIA 3 it will not examine every possible effect that could be envisaged, but will instead focus on those that are reasonable and proportional to the type of development and would be large enough to cause a definitive change to the baseline conditions

6.1.2 Impacts and Effects Terminology: GLVIA 3 states that:  An impact is the action that the development creates – for example a change of land cover from pasture to proposed development.  An effect is the result of the action (impact) – for example a reduction in visual amenity  The term impact should NOT be used to describe a combination of effects.

For each landscape or visual receptor this study will therefore first briefly identify the potential impacts of the development and will then describe the resulting effects. It will then make a judgment on the scale of the effect using the methodology described in Section 2.0.

6.1.3 Public Perception to Change: The perception of change is linked to the visibility of the site at the receptor and the visual sensitivity, landscape value and whether a particular element or feature can be accommodated without unacceptable consequences for the maintenance of the baseline (existing) conditions.

6.2 The Visual Effects

6.2.1 The visual effects will be examined from a series of representative viewpoints taken within the study area and have been selected using the Zone of Theoretical Visibility map as a tool to establish sites of potential visibility. A total of nine views were taken to illustrate the site and its appearance in publicly available views. Photographs were taken in November 2017 and July 2018, therefore winter and summer in relation to vegetation density.

6.2.2 Assessment of photographs is based on whether a landscape or visual effect or change may occur as a result of the development; and considering where mitigation may be necessary to reduce any such perceived effects. Vulnerability to views will be primarily from points close to the site and in wider views from high ground, if available.

6.2.3 The viewpoints considered are in table 1 below and the viewpoint location plan Drawing SPP 006 can be viewed in appendix 8. Assessment of photographs is based firstly on anticipating the effect of the proposal without mitigation during construction and in operation, and then considering how the proposed mitigation may alter that assessment.

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The effects are identified by establishing and describing the changes resulting from the different components of the development and the resulting effects on visual receptors. The potential effects will be considered as follows:  Type of effect: Direct, Indirect or Cumulative. o Direct effects – An effect directly attributable to the proposed development. o Indirect effects – Effects that result as a consequence of the direct effects, often occurring away from the site, or as a sequence of interrelationships. They may be separated by distance or time from the source of the effects. o Cumulative effects – Effects caused by the development in conjunction with other developments of a similar nature, which combined can cause a magnification of the effect which is greater than that caused by the developments individually.  Duration of effect: Short, medium or long‐term.  Nature of effect: Permanent or temporary and neutral, positive or negative. o Neutral – No change to the baseline conditions. o Positive – An improvement to the landscape and visual qualities described in the baseline conditions. o Negative – A degradation of the landscape or visual qualities described in the baseline conditions. Table 8 Viewpoints Viewpoint Location Distance Elevation Grid Bearing to Number from Centre Above Reference the Site of Site (km) Ordnance Datum (metres) Viewpoint 1 Public right of way 0.05km 81m E: 393673 62° NE MALW19 N: 186752 Viewpoint 2 Footpath Adj Priory 0.2km 78m E: 393567 50° NE Roundabout N: 186703 Viewpoint 3 Public right of way 0.15km 65m E: 393958 237° SW MALW13 N: 187008 Viewpoint 4 Public right of way 0.25km 74m E: 393846 200° S MALW23 N: 187113 Viewpoint 5 Verge A429 0.15km 80m E: 393854 176° S N: 187049 Viewpoint 6 MALW12 Junction 0.7km 91m E: 393978 185° S of Footpath and N: 187559 road (Blicks Hill) Viewpoint 7 Country lane adj 2.48km 80m E: 396142 308° NW Manor Farm N: 187720 Viewpoint 8 Public right of way 0.05km 85m E: 393742 25° N MALW19 N: 186727 Viewpoint 9 Adj Nuns Walk 0.5km 80m E: 393464 130° E Malmesbury N: 187164 Viewpoint 10 Silver Street 0.41km 84m E: 393449 136° SE N: 187072

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6.3 Viewpoint Photographs Analysis The viewpoint photograph sheets can be found in the appendices, however all relevant text and analysis is given below, rather than on the sheet itself. Where the development site is not evident in the view its approximate location has been found by compass bearing.

6.3.1 Viewpoint 1 – Public Right of Way MALW19 Taken from public right of way looking north from the south west corner of the site. The public right of way, MALW19, is accessed via a set of steps across a grass verge adjacent Prior Roundabout. There is no direct footpath link to the base of the steps but the PRoW is signposted. The short length path crosses through existing grazing land with the rear of properties along the B4042 visible looking south from this point. The land falls northwards and on the west is a mature hedgerow that screens the busy fast moving A429. To the northern perimeter can be seen hedgerow and mature trees with the eastern perimeter being more fragmented with sparse hedgerow and individual trees. The view beyond the site northwards is of pasture agricultural land and is not directly overlooked. On the east and south there is greater visibility of the site with open views from rear of properties. From this point the site can be readily seen. Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The immediate landscape has an average to fair value with the trees being sensitive to disturbance in this view giving a low landscape sensitivity. The site can be viewed from rear residential curtilages and from the public right of way giving a low visual sensitivity.

Receptors Users of the public right of way and dwellings along the B4042.

Visual Effects Construction effects will maintain and reinforce the site perimeter vegetation to the north, east and west side however, during the construction period the site will be readily viewed. There may need to be a loss of existing hedgerow to allow for sightlines in and out of the proposed site.

At the completion of the development the change in the view will include the new development building and associated car park. The development will be experienced as a new item in the landscape with a perception that the retail edge of Malmesbury has been extended. Mitigation planting will reinforce and strengthen the existing perimeter hedges with a proposed landscape scheme along the southern perimeter will help assimilate the scheme into the existing landscape fabric similar to the more recent adjacent supermarket development. Winter views: At this location the change in the view is likely to be more evident.

Magnitude of change: There will be medium magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects because of the close proximity of the viewpoint to the site and there will a partial loss of to the visual resource. Initially there will be an immediate perception of development and will be initially prominent, the majority of the receptors are likely to be those using the public right of way. Once the min 5 width mitigation planting becomes established, the development will become more integrated and views towards it will be filtered. The existing post and rail to the

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right of this view, although not part of the development will be planted with native hedge and tree planting to form a definitive edge to the field and aid screening over the adjacent dwellings. The proposed living green roof of the development will be visible from this viewpoint but this will reduce the magnitude of the development assimulating it into the existing environs.

The effects will be direct, long term and permanent. Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: SLIGHT/ MODERATE

6.3.2 Viewpoint 2 – Footpath adjacent A429 Priory Roundabout From Roundabout verge footpath looking northeast. The proposed site is located to the north east of the view with the busy A429 on the west. Filtered views of Waitrose car park can be seen on the immediate west of the view. The semi mature trees on the roundabout screens a large part of the site. A mature hedge can be seen to the site perimeter with a break in the hedge where the public right of way MALW19 is accessed. The site perimeter hedgerow is set on a bank rising up from the road. From this viewpoint it would be difficult to view the proposed site.

Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The site cannot be readily viewed from this viewpoint giving a low / negligible landscape and visual sensitivity.

Receptors Users of the A429 and footpath users.

Visual Effects Construction effects will maintain the west site perimeter vegetation in this view.

At the completion of the development the change in the view will not be adversely affected by the development. The planting of a native hedge and tree planting along the southern edge will aid this viewpoint by reducing the visibility of the existing post and rai fence creating a hedgerow foil to the whole site.

Magnitude of change: There will be low to negligible magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects as the site can not be viewed from this point. The effects will be indirect, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: NEGLIGIBLE Magnitude: NEGLIGIBLE Impact: NEGLIGIBLE

6.3.3 Viewpoint 3 – Footpath adjacent A429 Priory Roundabout Looking south from the public right of way MALW13 adjacent the River Avon and dismantled railway towards the site. The proposed site is elevated with the mature hedgerow and single stand trees clearly need on the sites norther perimeter. The footpath is in the floodplain of the River Avon. A road bridge of the A429 can be seen to the east. Although filtered views of the proposed site can be seen the trees are not in leaf and when in leaf the site would be less identifiable. The rear curtilages of the properties along the B4042 can just be seen on the horizon as they are set higher than the proposed site.

Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The immediate landscape has a fair value with the trees being sensitive to disturbance in this view giving a low/ medium landscape sensitivity. The site can be

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partially viewed from the public right of way looking towards the proposed perimeter car park giving a low/ medium visual sensitivity.

Receptors Users of the public right of way.

Visual Effects Construction effects will maintain the site perimeter vegetation to the north, east and west side however, during the construction period the site will have filtered visibility.

At the completion of the development there will be a change in the view with the proposed development visible during winter months however, to the fore ground of this view a large section of field has been planted and in time will screen the development. This along with the proposed living green roof and mitigation planting to the northern perimeter of the site will screen the visual effect of the proposed development.

Magnitude of change: There will be medium magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects because of the close proximity of the viewpoint to the site and there will a partial loss of to the visual resource. Initially there will be an immediate perception of development and will be initially prominent and the majority of the receptors are likely to be those using the public right of way. Once the min 5 width mitigation planting becomes established, the development will become more integrated and views towards it will be filtered. The effects will be direct, long term and permanent. Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: MODERATE

6.3.4 Viewpoint 4 – Public Right of Way MALW23 This viewpoint is taken from a track that leads to the public right of way MALM23 linking to Baskerville Hill and to MALW13. The view looks directly towards the A429 road bridge over the River Avon. The proposed development will not be seen in this viewpoint.

Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The site cannot be readily viewed from this viewpoint giving a low / negligible landscape and visual sensitivity.

At the completion of the development the change in the view will not be adversely affected by the development.

Magnitude of change: There will be low to negligible magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects as the site cannot be viewed from this point. The effects will be indirect, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: NEGLIGIBLE Magnitude: NEGLIGIBLE Impact: NEGLIGIBLE

6.3.5 Viewpoint 5 – Verge A429 Taken from the verge A429 with no footpath looking south. On the northern perimeter mature trees and hedgerow partially screen the site. From this viewpoint the fall across the existing field can also be viewed. The rear of residential properties along the B4042 can also be seen. The

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eastern perimeter is viewed as a complete mature hedgerow with individual trees. The land to the foreground falls away sharply to the River Avon.

Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The immediate landscape has a fair value with the trees being sensitive to disturbance in this view giving a low/ medium landscape sensitivity. The site can be partially viewed from the public right of way looking towards the proposed perimeter car park giving a low/ medium visual sensitivity.

Receptors Users of the A429.

Visual Effects Construction effects will maintain the site perimeter vegetation to the north, east and west side however, during the construction period the site will be readily viewed. There may need to be a loss of existing hedgerow to allow for sightlines in and out of the proposed site.

At the completion of the development the change in the view will include the new development building and associated car park. The development will be experienced as a new item in the landscape with a perception that the retail edge of Malmesbury has been extended. It will be seen in context of a built form with the urban fringe prevalent siting above the proposed roof level. There are no long distant countryside views.

Mitigation planting will strengthen the existing perimeter hedges and proposed landscape scheme along the northern and southern perimeter will help assimilate the scheme into the existing landscape fabric similar to the more recent adjacent supermarket development. The proposed living green roof will soften the impact of the built form with existing dwellings along the B4042 visually sitting above the finished proposed building. Winter views: At this location the change in the view is likely to be more evident.

Magnitude of change: There will be medium magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects because of the close proximity of the viewpoint to the site however, the view will be fleeting due to the speed travelling along the A429 at this point. There will a partial loss of the to the visual resource. Initially there will be an immediate perception of development and will be initially prominent. Once the min 5 width mitigation planting becomes established with the living green roof, the development will become more integrated and views towards it will be filtered. The effects will be direct, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: MODERATE

6.3.6 Viewpoint 6 – Public Right of Way MALW12 Adjacent Blicks Hill, from the public right of way MALW12 that links to MALW13 looking south towards the proposed site. The garden curtilages of the residential properties along the B4042 form the horizon line. The existing hedgerow on the northern boundary of the proposed site can just be viewed however, the proposed development would not be viewed from this point.

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Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The site cannot be readily viewed from this viewpoint giving a low / negligible landscape and visual sensitivity.

Magnitude of change: There will be low to negligible magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects as the site cannot be viewed from this point. It is also proposed for a native hedge and tree planting to the southern field perimeter will soften the existing build form currently viewed on the horizon. The effects will be indirect, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: NEGLIGIBLE Magnitude: NEGLIGIBLE Impact: NEGLIGIBLE

6.3.7 Viewpoint 7 – Country Lane Adjacent Manor Farm Taken from a field gate along a country lane looking west. The ZTV indicated that there may be visibility of the site from this distance but intervening vegetation and topography effectively screen the site. Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The site cannot be readily viewed from this viewpoint giving a negligible landscape and visual sensitivity. Magnitude of change: There will be low to negligible magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects as the site cannot be viewed from this point. The effects will be indirect, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: NEGLIGIBLE Magnitude: NEGLIGIBLE Impact: NEGLIGIBLE

6.3.8 Viewpoint 8 – Public Right of Way MALW19 Taken from public right of way looking north from the south of the site. The public right of way, MALW19, is accessed via a set of steps across a grass verge adjacent Prior Roundabout. The short length path crosses through existing grazing land with the rear of properties along the B4042 visible looking south from this point. The land falls northwards and on the west is a mature hedgerow that screens the busy fast moving A429. To the northern perimeter can be seen hedgerow and mature trees with the eastern perimeter being more fragmented with sparse hedgerow and individual trees. The view beyond the site northwards is of pasture agricultural land and is not directly overlooked. The gaps in the western embankment hedge afford views over the roof of Waitrose. From this point the site can be readily seen.

Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The immediate landscape has an average to fair value with the trees being sensitive to disturbance in this view giving a low landscape sensitivity. The site can be viewed from rear residential curtilages and from the public right of way giving a low visual sensitivity.

Receptors Users of the public right of way and dwellings along the B4042.

Visual Effects Construction effects will maintain the site perimeter vegetation to the north, east and west side however, during the construction period the site will be readily viewed. There may need to be a loss of existing hedgerow to allow for sightlines in and out of the proposed site.

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At the completion of the development the change in the view will include the new development building and associated car park. The development will be experienced as a new item in the landscape with a perception that the retail edge of Malmesbury has been extended. Mitigation planting will strengthen and reinforce the existing perimeter hedges and proposed landscape scheme along the southern perimeter will help assimilate the scheme into the existing landscape fabric similar to the more recent adjacent supermarket development. The proposed living green roof will soften the material change the building will have visually. Winter views: At this location the change in the view is likely to be more evident.

Magnitude of change: There will be medium magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects because of the close proximity of the viewpoint to the site and there will a partial loss of to the visual resource. Initially there will be an immediate perception of development and will be initially prominent. The majority of the receptors are likely to be those using the public right of way and residents. Once the min 5 width mitigation planting and the living green roof becomes established, the development will become more integrated and views towards it will be filtered. The effects will be direct, long term and permanent. Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: SLIGHT/ MODERATE

6.3.9 Viewpoint 9 – Adjacent Nuns Walk Footpath to the Rear of Malmesbury Library Looking east from just above Nuns Walk within the Conservation Area at a slightly elevated position towards site. Nuns walk is a private footpath that links the Catholic school to the church and they have gated private access. This view is from the rear of the public library. The new Waitrose roof can be viewed although it has been dug into the landscape with substantial mitigation planting. The western hedge and tree boundary of the site filters views however the development roofline may be seen from this point if constructed at the current ground levels yet its impact will not be obvious with a living green roof assimilating it into the surrounding landscape.

Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The immediate landscape has a good value with the trees being sensitive to disturbance in this view giving a medium landscape sensitivity. The site can be viewed from the conservation area from rear of public library car park and although not well used its location within the conservation area affords a medium visual sensitivity.

Receptors Users of the car park to rear of public library.

Visual Effects Construction effects will maintain the site perimeter vegetation to the north, east and west side however, during the construction period the site will be partially viewed. There may need to be a loss of existing hedgerow to allow for sightlines in and out of the proposed site however this is not readily viewed from this viewpoint.

At the completion of the development the change in the view will include the new development building and associated car park. The development will be experienced as a new item in the

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landscape with a perception that the retail edge of Malmesbury has been extended. However the living green roof will assimilate with the horizon and will not be as visibly obvious as the Waitrose roof. Mitigation planting with native tree and hedge planting will reinforce and strengthen the existing perimeter hedges offering a softer backdrop.

Magnitude of change: There will be medium magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects because of the viewpoint being within the conservation area. Although the site will not be clearly seen there may be a small section of roof line on the same level as the adjacent supermarket. The majority of the receptors are likely to be those using the car park and residents whose rear properties face north east. Once the min 5 width mitigation planting and living roof becomes established, the development will become more integrated and views towards it will be filtered. The effects will be direct, long term and permanent. Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: MODERATE

6.3.10 Viewpoint 10 – Silver Street Malmesbury Town Centre Looking east from the high point in Silver Street. A small section of the Waitrose roof can be partially viewed although it has been dug into the landscape with substantial mitigation planting. The western hedge and tree boundary of the site filters views however the development roofline may be seen from this point if constructed at the current ground levels yet as the roof is proposed to be a living green roof this impact will be greatly lessoned.

Landscape & Visual Sensitivity: The immediate landscape has a fair value with the trees being sensitive to disturbance in this view giving a low/ medium landscape sensitivity. The site can be viewed from the conservation area from public highway and residents whose properties may face east and within the conservation area affords a medium visual sensitivity.

Receptors Users of Silver Street, vehicles and pedestrians in Conservation Area.

Visual Effects Construction effects will maintain the site perimeter vegetation to the north, east and west side however, during the construction period the site will be partially viewed.

At the completion of the development the change in the view will include the new development building and associated car park. The development will be experienced as a new item in the landscape with a perception that the retail edge of Malmesbury has been extended. However, mitigation planting will reinforce and strengthen the existing perimeter hedges with new native hedge and tree planting as well as a living green roof to the building.

Magnitude of change: There will be medium magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects because of the viewpoint being within the conservation area. Although the site will not be clearly seen there may be a small section of the living green roof line on the same level as the adjacent supermarket. The majority of the receptors are likely to be vehicular, pedestrian and residents whose property windows face east. The effects will be direct, long term and permanent.

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Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: MODERATE

6.3.11 Other Viewpoints Current guidance on landscape appraisal suggests that ZTV software should make an analysis of potential visibility that is a ‘bare‐ground’ analysis. This uses only terrain data to establish the visibility with no additional screening from elements such as vegetation or structures considered. In order to establish a more complete picture of the potential visibility of this development Swan Paul undertook to visit a wide selection of viewpoint locations to test the ZTV calculations. The Viewpoint locations drawing SPP06 therefore not only shows a representative selection for detailed discussion (Viewpoints 1 to 9), but also some that were visited but were found to have no view of the site at all (and was unlikely to be changed by winter conditions).

6.3.12 Night time visual effects The proposal includes lighting of the new development and therefore be evident from some viewpoints, particularly at close range such as VP 1, 3, 5, and 8. This will be a change to current lighting practice on the site where there is currently none.

6.4 The Landscape Effects

6.4.1 The effects are identified by establishing and describing the changes resulting from the different components of the development and the resulting effects on landscape receptors described in the landscape baseline analysis. The potential effects will be considered as follows:  Type of effect: Direct, Indirect or Secondary.  Duration of effect: Short, medium or long‐term.  Nature of effect: Permanent or temporary and neutral, positive or negative  The impact ratings given below can all be considered as ‘adverse’ unless stated as ‘beneficial’.

All the landscape impacts assessed in this section are considered to be adverse.

6.4.2 Landscape Character Effects – – National Character Elements of the national character area No 117 Avon Vales that are displayed within the study area and could be affected by the proposals include:  Small to medium sized fields with hedgerow boundaries, potential to impact on the pattern of rectilinear, hedged fields, could be lost with the introduction of a retail unit and associated car parking  Added pressure on transport network

Landscape Effects There will be a change in the pattern and cover of the land at the site which will lead to a reduction in the contribution this makes to the national landscape character area. The field will be taken out of pasture use and converted to retail use. Part of the land will be permanently taken out of agricultural use and the ground remodelled and built upon.

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The proposed development is located on the edge of town and as such is unlikely to be viewed in isolation from the more elevated landscape to the north. It will be part of the interface between the open countryside and the built‐up area.

The hedged fields will be retained, reinforced and managed to improve their condition. The proposed mitigation planting around the development will help to screen the buildings into the setting and, with a degree of maturity, will help integrate it into the landscape. The proposed living green roof will soften the impact of the build within the landscape adding to the biodiversity across the proposed development.

Magnitude of change: There will be low magnitude of change as a result of minor loss and alteration to the national landscape character. Part of the land will be permanently taken out of agricultural use, which will lead to a reduction in the contribution this makes to landscape character. In the context of the wider NCA, the extent of area affected is limited with localised change with scope for mitigation. In accordance with the criteria in Table 1, sensitivity is considered to be low as it contains few features sensitive to disturbance.

The effects will be direct, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: LOW Magnitude: LOW Impact: SLIGHT

6.4.3 Landscape Character Effects – – Local Character Elements of the local character area No16A ‘Malmesbury – Horsham Limestone Lowland’ in the Wiltshire County Council Landscape character assessment (2005) and Landscape Character Type Lowland Limestone and Landscape Character Area No 8 Hullavington Rolling Lowland the North Wiltshire Landscape Assessment (2004):  Small to medium sized fields with hedgerow boundaries, potential to impact on the pattern of rectilinear, hedged fields, could be lost with the introduction of a retail unit and associated car parking  Added pressure on transport network  The hedgerow network could be compromised  The few mature trees on site may not be the dominant skyline feature initially. Landscape Effects There will be a change in the pattern and cover of the land at the site which will lead to a reduction in the contribution this makes to the local landscape character area. The field will be taken out of pasture use and converted to retail use. Part of the land will be permanently taken out of agricultural use and the ground remodelled and built upon.

The proposed development is located on the edge of town and as such is unlikely to be viewed in isolation from the more elevated landscape to the north. It will be part of the interface between the open countryside and the built‐up area.

The hedged fields will be reinforced, retained and managed to improve their condition. The proposed mitigation planting around the development will help to screen the buildings into the setting and, with a degree of maturity, will help integrate it into the landscape. The green living roof will also aid its integration into the local landscape character.

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Magnitude of change: There will be low magnitude of change as a result of minor loss and alteration to the local landscape character. Part of the land will be permanently taken out of agricultural use, which will lead to a reduction in the contribution this makes to landscape character. In the context of local landscape character type the extent of area affected is localised with scope for mitigation. In accordance with the criteria in Table 1, sensitivity is considered to be low as it contains few features sensitive to disturbance.

The effects will be direct, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: LOW Magnitude: LOW Impact: SLIGHT

6.4.4 Effects on the Heritage Designations The heritage designations described in the landscape baseline are not within view of the site and will have no experience of it in the context of their own landscape setting. The close proximity of the conservation area will not be affected by the proposed development due to the existing supermarket adjacent being within the conservation area. A separate heritage report has been produced and should be referred to.

6.4.5 Effects on residential property The residential buildings close to the development will have their landscape setting affected due to open southern perimeter. Mitigation planting and reducing the level of the existing ground would bring the proposed roof line below the current ridgeline when looking north thus maintaining the scale of the landscape. A proposed native hedge and tree planting is proposed adjacent the public right of way on the southern boundary that will along with the other mitigation planting reduce the effect the development may have on the existing dwellings.

Magnitude of change: There will be medium magnitude of change for both landscape and visual effects because of the close proximity of the viewpoint to the site and there will a partial loss of to the visual resource. Initially there will be an immediate perception of development and will be initially prominent. Once the new native hedge and tree planting, living green roof and min 5 width mitigation planting becomes established, the development will become more integrated and views towards it will be filtered. The effects will be direct, long term and permanent. Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: SLIGHT/ MODERATE

6.5 The Cumulative Effects

6.5.1 The GLVIA 3 guidance refers to cumulative effects as: “the additional changes caused by a proposed development in conjunction with other similar developments or as the combined effect of a set of developments, taken together.”

6.5.2 There is a Waitrose supermarket and associated car parking / delivery areas adjacent the proposed site. The supermarket has a larger footprint and parking area and as with the proposed development is accessed off the A429. The Waitrose though lies just within the conservation area boundary.

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6.5.3 Cumulative effects can be considered as landscape or visual effects. The overall level of cumulative landscape effects relates to the degree to which similar types of development, in this case supermarkets becomes the defining characteristic of the landscape and affect the character and value associated with it. The level of cumulative visual effects relates to the degree to which similar types of development are featured in views and adverse effects are more likely to occur where intervisibility of the developments allows two or more to be seen from key viewpoints.

6.5.4 Only operational effects are considered in this section so that the cumulative impacts are considered with the cumulative sites all in the same condition. The receptor in this case is considered to be the general landscape locality and, with reference to its capacity to accommodate change (4.5.1) is judged to have a sensitivity of low/ medium.

6.5.5 Appraisal of Cumulative Landscape Effects: The adjacent supermarket is within the conservation area yet is also accessed via the busy A429. The site has been heavily screened with embankment planting and the building detailing sensitive to reflect its location. There is a substantial landscape scheme to its perimeter and within the car park areas. The proposed development similar to the adjacent supermarket will be set back from the main A429 frontage and will not be seen in conjunction with each other from the main road. The proposed development will have a living green roof unlike the Waitrose unit thus reducing its impact. The cumulative landscape effects will define the edge of the town centre but will be screened from view from all but a few viewpoints.

Sensitivity: The sensitivity of the urban fringe landscape and conservation area to cumulative change is therefore considered to be medium.

Landscape Effects Magnitude of change: When travelling on the A429 it is a fast moving road that appears detached from the urban town centre of Malmesbury. The historic centre of the town is at a higher level with development spreading out from it. The proposed site and adjacent existing supermarket lie on land lower than the historic centre however the density of the housing and intervening vegetation settle the proposed scheme into the landscape if seen from very few vantage points in the town. The proposed development will be experienced together reducing the impact on the receiving landscape however the proposed development has a living green rood and once established will have less of an impact that the adjacent Waitrose store. Cumulative landscape effects are more prominent within about 0.5km of the site, but diminish at greater distances. Sensitivity: MEDIUM Magnitude: MEDIUM Impact: MODERATE adverse

The effects will be indirect, long term and slight negative.

6.5.6 Appraisal of Cumulative Visual Effects There are a limited number of locations where a visual receptor can experience the proposed supermarket and existing cumulatively. Travelling south on the A429 and viewpoint 5 the receptor will have filtered views of both supermarkets and awareness of both entrance exit points to the retail units, although new planting will soften the impact. From Viewpoint 8 both supermarkets will be seen with the roof of Waitrose visible through the existing hedge however this view is in close proximity to the proposed development. Both developments do not break

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the skyline. In viewpoint 9 and 10, the proposed development will sit behind Waitrose roofline and will blend with its horizon with a living green roof and the cumulative visual effects are not considered large. Sensitivity: The sensitivity of the urban fringe landscape to cumulative visual change is therefore considered to be low/ medium.

Visual Effects Magnitude of change: From the conservation area in viewpoint 9 and 10, there may be some cumulative visual perception between Waitrose and the proposed scheme. Receptors are likely to be pedestrian and vehicle users and residents of properties that face towards the site, however, the proposed site will be behind Waitrose tucked below the existing skyline with distant views maintained. From viewpoint 5, receptors are likely to be in vehicles and concentrating on their journey, rather than the quality of the landscape around them. Due to the intervening topography and vegetation the cumulative landscape effects are not considered large. Sensitivity: LOW/ MEDIUM Magnitude: LOW/ MEDIUM Impact: SLIGHT/MODERATE adverse

The effects will be indirect, long term and neutral.

6.6 The Residual Effects

6.6.1 GLVIA 3 states that residual effects are those effects considered to still be present once all mitigation measures have been installed. In the case of planting mitigation this is assumed to be when planting has matured to a sufficient degree to have the effect that was intended. For the purposes of this study this is assumed to be at 15 years. Only operational effects are considered in this section as residual effects are considered after a period of time has passed. The receptor in this case is considered to be the general landscape locality and, with reference to its capacity to accommodate change (4.5.1) is judged to have a sensitivity of low.

6.6.2 Landscape Effects: Once all mitigation planting is mature the residual effect at the development site would be the permanent loss of the land to built development. National and regional character would have negligible change to their base‐line with only very local effects being measurable. As the change is only experienced at a very local level the magnitude is considered to be low. The effects will be indirect, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: LOW Magnitude: LOW Impact: SLIGHT adverse

6.6.3 Visual Effects: Once all mitigation planting is in a mature condition the residual visual effects would be the parts of the building and site infrastructure that is visible through the perimeter landscaping. The assessment of the viewpoint photographs has considered that in most cases this will be restricted to those viewpoints very close to the development, for example at VP8 the visual effects are considered to improve the scene with improved mature hedgerow and tree planting reflecting the local landscape character type and this will remain as a residual effect. From the intermediate viewpoints the upper parts of the development are likely to have limited visibility and be well screened by mitigation planting.

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The effects will be direct/indirect, long term and permanent.

Sensitivity: LOW Magnitude: LOW Impact: SLIGHT adverse

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7.0 Conclusion

7.1 Introduction

7.1.1 This report has followed accepted good practice in trying to make as an objective assessment as possible of the potential landscape and visual impacts of the proposal.

7.2 Mitigation

7.2.1 The mitigation measures are aimed at trying to assimilate the development by maximising the benefits of the natural resources and setting of the site, combined with enhancements that aim to create an appearance in context with the surrounding landscape and improve the mitigation of winter impacts. In this case, the scale of development requires mitigation to assist with assimilation into the natural setting. In general the aspirations of mitigation can be summarised as follows:‐  Maintain and reinforce planting of existing hedges and trees to keep continuity of screening throughout the year.  Protect existing vegetation in accordance with BS: 5837 ‘Trees in relation to construction’.  Ensure construction operations do not conflict with conservation interests such as archaeology, hydrology or the seasonal requirements of flora and fauna.  Consider the colour and texture of materials, particularly with fencing and site buildings, to be recessive against the backdrop of existing vegetation. This will be demonstrated in the use of a living green roof.  Fences and other ancillary items to be commensurate with a rural rather than an urban image such as the use of local natural stone walls.  Use native tree and hedges to close views of the development and reduce visual impacts.  Ensure a 5m buffer of planting to the east and south perimeter is primarily a dense native mix of hedge and tree species to encourage screening in a short period of time.  Where possible excess soil should be used to form a small bund to the south for the proposed 5m width native planting to increase screening.  Further buffer planting to the area adjacent the public right of way on the south east and southern boundary offering extra screening for the residential dwellings rear garden curtilages.

7.3 Visual Impacts – Conclusion

7.4.1 From this appraisal it is considered that the site is less visible than the Zone of Theoretical Visibility would suggest, with views limited to locations within close proximity of the site and from close surrounding viewpoints at public rights of way; Such as at viewpoints 1,3,5,8 and 9. Field work has established that all other points considered within the study area (within 5km of the site) were found to have no view of the site, even those from higher elevations, due to intervening vegetation. Plan SPP 005 Zone of Theoretical Visibility shows a ‘bare ground’ plan.

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7.4.2 The site is exposed to views from residential dwellings along the southern boundary and although there is hedgerow and tree cover to the north, east and west, it is patchy along the north, south, east and west and this will need to be reinforced with mitigation planting to help reduce visibility from these dwellings and from key public viewpoints. This planting will also contribute to the biodiversity and connectivity of habitats in the site area. Long term maintenance will also be required to maintain this mitigating effect which will ensure their management future.

7.4.3 The proposals are visually quite substantial with a change from the baseline conditions and are however permanent. Reducing the level of the existing land would reduce the height and visual impact of the development particularly from viewpoints 1 and 8.

7.4.4 The effects of the visual change at the site can therefore be considered as construction phase and operational phase. Construction Phase Visual Effects are summarised as:  An increase in construction activity and vehicles on the site leading to a reduction in visual amenity of the locality.  The erection of the new building and car park with an immediate change from the visual baseline.  Any remedial or rejuvenating pruning to surrounding hedges leading to the immediate improvement of hedge structure and density.  Removal of section of hedge along the western edge for sightlines in and out of the proposed development. Some of these effects will be temporary and for the duration of the construction period only.

7.4.5 Operational Phase Visual Effects are summarised as:  The insertion of large structures into the landscape that are a permanent change.  The growth of mitigation hedge and tree planting to all perimeters which will eventually screen the development.  The ongoing maintenance of hedges and trees, leading to a permanent screening of the site.  The ongoing maintenance to ensure longevity of living green roof to the proposed built structure softening and reducing the impact the built structure has. These effects will be permanent but have been assessed as occurring to visual receptors in close proximity to the site. Receptors at more than 1km from the site have been shown to have little or no views of it, due to intervening vegetation and topography.

7.5 Landscape Impacts – Conclusion

7.5.1 The landscape impact of the development will include the change of landscape cover on the site from pasture land to new building, car park that would be permanent. Mitigation planting will retain and reinforce existing hedges and trees with the proposed living green roof assimilating the development into the surrounding landscape.

7.5.2 The assessment of landscape character has shown that the proposed development does not have a significant impact upon the baseline characteristics of the National Landscape Character and local landscape character area apart from the loss of small scale field patterns.

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7.5.3 The effects of the landscape change at the site can therefore be considered as construction phase and operational phase. Construction Phase Landscape Effects are summarised as:  An increase in construction activity and vehicles on open pasture.  The erection of the new building, car parking will give an immediate change from the landscape baseline.  Planting of mitigation hedge and tree planting changing the very local cover and character of the site. Some of these effects will be temporary and for the duration of the construction period only.

7.5.4 Operational Phase Landscape Effects are summarised as:  The insertion of structure into the landscape that are a permanent change, altering the cover of the landscape at a very local level.  The growth of mitigation planting which will add to the local pattern of native hedge and tree cover as well as the living green roof will help assimilate the development into the local landscape.

These effects will be permanent but have been assessed as having impacts at a very local level with wider landscape receptors such as regional and national landscape character having limited effects as a result of the development. It is anticipated that the proposed mitigation planting and the reduction in existing ground levels will all help to assimilate the development into the landscape and reduce landscape impacts.

Conclusion With mitigation planting of maintaining as much of the existing tree and hedge planting as possible, a minimum 5m width native tree and hedgerow bed to the north and south, reinforcement native planting to the east, living green roof, avenue tree planting at the entrance and new native tree and hedge planting to the field boundary, the proposed development will be screened from those views indicated as having potential views over the site. The proposed and reinforcement native planting will further enhance the existing hedge promoting greater ecological connectivity. Within a short time the dense planting will form a visual foil that will reflect the landscape that surrounds it.

The results of this landscape and visual appraisal indicate that the proposed development could be accommodated on the site without overall landscape or visual effects. Potential identified effects are considered to be localised and contained. With mitigation planting and management plan theses effects will overtime reduce with the maturing planting proposals.

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