Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area

Stage 1 Assessment

Prepared by LUC for Dorset Council October 2019

View south towards of the Church of St George, Bourton Project Title: Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area

Client: Dorset Councils Partnership/Dorset Council

Version Date Version Details Prepared by Checked by Approved by

1.0 04/12/18 First draft Isabelle King Maria Grant Kate Ahern Rosie Brady Steven Orr

2.0 07/06/19 Draft report addressing Maria Grant Kate Ahern Kate Ahern client comments

3.0 07/08/19 Final report Maria Grant Kate Ahern Kate Ahern

4.0 25/10/19 Final report addressing Maria Grant Kate Ahern Kate Ahern client comments Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area

Stage 1 Assessment

Prepared by LUC for Dorset Council October 2019

Planning & EIA LUC BRISTOL Offices also in: Land Use Consultants Ltd th Registered in England Design 12 Floor Colston Tower Edinburgh Registered number: 2549296 Landscape Planning Colston Street Bristol Glasgow Registered Office: Landscape Management BS1 4XE Lancaster 43 Chalton Street Ecology T +44 (0)117 929 1997 London London NW1 1JD GIS & Visualisation [email protected] Manchester FS 566056 EMS 566057 LUC uses 100% recycled paper Contents

1 Introduction and methodology 5 Purpose of the Strategic Landscape and Heritage Sensitivity Study 5 Stage 1 assessment 5

2 Blandford (Forum and St Mary): Stage 1 assessment 8 Area of Search Assessments 9 Conclusions 15

3 Gillingham: Stage 1 assessment 16 Area of Search Assessments 17 Conclusions 23

4 Shaftesbury: Stage 1 assessment 25 Area of Search Assessments 26 Conclusions 32

5 Stalbridge: Stage 1 assessment 33 Area of Search Assessments 34 Conclusions 37

6 Sturminster Newton: Stage 1 assessment 38 Area of Search Assessments 39 Conclusions 44 1 Introduction and methodology

Purpose of the Strategic Landscape and Heritage Sensitivity Study

1.1 The Dorset Council Local Plan1 will need to accommodate a significant amount of new growth in an area that is characterised by its high quality landscape and rich variety of natural and built heritage features. Development could have differing degrees of impact on these assets. This study provides robust and up-to-date evidence to feed into the local plan to help inform the scale, form and location of future development to minimise harm to the landscape, heritage assets and the historic character and setting of the settlements within the former North Dorset area.

1.2 The overall aim of this study was to appraise the sensitivity of land at the four main towns2 within the North Dorset area (Blandford [Forum and St Mary], Gillingham, Shaftesbury and Sturminster Newton) and Stalbridge to the effects of development. There was also a concurrent assessment of the land surrounding the 18 larger villages in the former North Dorset Area. The assessment is only concerned with potential impacts on the landscape and historic environment.

1.3 The outputs of this work will be used by the local planning authority to:

• Identify land where development would have least impact on areas of landscape value or heritage significance.

• Help in refining broad growth areas and inform the evaluation of potential development locations.

• Help establish site options for consideration through the sustainability appraisal process and for future consultation and more detailed study.

1.4 This report forms one part of the Strategic Landscape and Heritage Sensitivity Assessment for North Dorset. The other outputs of the landscape and heritage sensitivity assessment are as follows:

• A Stage 2 methodology and overview report • Five individual reports for the Stage 2 assessment of the four main towns and Stalbridge, which provide detailed assessments on landscape and heritage sensitivity for each of the assessment areas.

• An individual report setting out the methodology and findings of the assessment of key sensitivities surrounding the larger villages which was undertaken alongside the Stage 2 Assessment.

Stage 1 assessment

1.5 This Stage 1 assessment contains a high-level scoping exercise of the “areas of search” around the four main towns (Blandford [Forum and St Mary], Gillingham, Shaftesbury and Sturminster Newton) and Stalbridge that were included in the North Dorset Local Plan Review Issues and Options Consultation document3, based on a consideration of landscape and heritage constraints to development. While the Issues and Options report undertook its own scoping exercise considering the range of potential planning constraints, this Stage 1 assessment involves a more specific independent consideration of landscape and heritage issues.

1 On 1/4/19 North Dorset District Council became part of Dorset Council, the decision being made on 25/6/19 to discontinue work on the North Dorset Local Plan Review with all existing work carried out on the review to be used where possible to shape the new Dorset Council Local Plan. 2 As defined under Policy 2 of the North Dorset Local Plan Part 1 3 North Dorset Local Plan Review, Issues and Options Consultation. November 2017.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 5 October 2019 Area 1.6 Each of the five settlements is assessed by the areas of search identified in the Issues and Options Consultation document.

1.7 For ease of reference between the two exercises, the conclusions made by the Issues and Options Consultation document are included in the assessment tables, but note that – as above – these consider the full range of planning constraints. It is also important to emphasise that this new, independent assessment has not been influenced by the conclusions made at that time.

Stage 1 methodology

1.8 The Stage 1 assessment of the areas of search is a desk-based exercise and used available data to assess the likely sensitivity of each of the areas of search to development. A list of datasets and literature consulted is included in Appendix 1.

1.9 The table below explains the colour coding applied to these Stage 1 assessments, used to indicate whether areas of search are recommended to be scoped in/out of further detailed Stage 2 study on landscape and/or heritage grounds. In some cases, the areas of search present clear geographical differences in levels of likely sensitivity to development, requiring a split in the Stage 1 scoring at the area of search level. Note that as this is a high level scoping exercise, more intricate exclusions of individual sites or features within the area of search was not undertaken. It should also be noted that this is a high level study and does not preclude all development from areas which are excluded at Stage 1. Any development proposals in these excluded areas will have to be assessed on their own merits by the local planning authority. Areas of search recommended for Stage 2 assessment are subject to further refinement in terms of their boundaries, and sites/features present within them are assessed thoroughly using a criteria-based approach.

Table explaining colour coding applied to the Stage 1 landscape and heritage assessments

Colour coding Definition

Green Area to be taken through to more detailed Stage 2 assessment; no significant landscape or heritage sensitivities have been identified in Stage 1.

Amber Area to be taken through to more detailed Stage 2 assessment, but it is likely to have some landscape and/or heritage sensitivities that will affect the siting and scale of development able to be accommodated.

Red Area scoped out of Stage 2 on landscape and/or heritage grounds.

1.10 Following the Stage 1 landscape and heritage assessments undertaken at the area of search level, overall conclusions are presented for each settlement, setting out the following: • Areas of search scoped out of Stage 2 on landscape/heritage grounds • Areas of search scoped out of Stage 2 on other grounds (i.e. non-landscape/heritage planning constraints) • Summary of areas of search to be taken forward to Stage 2 for more detailed assessment.

Stage 2 Assessments

1.11 Following the Stage 1 assessments, the boundaries of the areas of search which were to be assessed further at Stage 2 were refined to exclude areas with significant planning constraints (e.g. sites which have already been granted planning permission and areas within flood zones). The areas of search were also refined so that the boundaries followed visible landscape features. These refined areas were used as the assessment areas for the Stage 2 part of the study.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 6 October 2019 Area 1.12 It is important to note that areas of search taken forward to Stage 2 may still be assessed as of high sensitivity to development (on landscape and/or heritage grounds) following more detailed assessment and field verification undertaken during this stage.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 7 October 2019 Area 2 Blandford (Forum and St Mary): Stage 1 assessment

2.1 The areas of search which form the spatial framework for Blandford (Forum and St Mary) Stage 1 assessment are mapped below.

Figure 2.1: Areas of search for Blandford (Forum and St Mary)

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 8 October 2019 Area Area of Search Assessments

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Code Character analysis Explain location if partial & Name Area(s) Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

A: Land Cranborne Impacts on the • Sloping landform with the highest point in the • Area lies to north-east of the Blandford Forum, Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Chase AONB and the north-west (100m AOD), sloping downward in Blandford St Mary and Bryanston Conservation through to Stage 2. Main sensitivities Higher Wooded Chalk landscape. the east to 75m AOD. Area, and to the south of the Pimperne likely to relate to elevated landform and Shaftesbury Downland and Conservation Area. But there is later location within the Cranborne Chase & Possible • Medium-large arable fields bound by thick Road and East development between the two conservation West Wiltshire Downs AONB. highways/access hedgerows. Salisbury Blandford/ areas that does not contribute to their special constraints. Road Pimperne • There is a small strip of traditional orchards interest. Downs The distance to local priority habitat identified along the southern edge • No designated heritage assets within boundary services and facilities of the allotments. of search area. located within the • Mostly unsettled with a small area of housing in Heritage – Yes. Potentially some town centre. • Potential to affect the setting of a scheduled ✓ the east. Sunrise Business Park is adjacent to the sensitivities relating to setting of the Iron Age farmstead that lies to the north. west. scheduled monument that will need to • Potential for setting change to the non- be explored at Stage 2. • Almost entirely within the Cranborne Chase & designated Hammett’s Farm to the north-east. West Wiltshire Downs AONB. • Potential for physical change to an undated enclosure. No other known archaeological remains recorded by the HER in the site.

• Pimperne Conservation Area north-east of search area, but due to topography its setting is unlikely to be affected.

B: Land East Impacts on the • Slopes to the north and south of a stream valley. • No designated assets within the search area Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Blandford/ AONB/setting of the Elevation 75m and 40m AOD. boundary. through to Stage 2. Sensitivities likely to Salisbury Pimperne AONB, the landscape relate to sloping landform and location • Medium-large arable fields, divided by Black • Grade II listed Langbourne House stands to Road and Downs and water quality. within the Cranborne Chase & West Lane. Some hedgerows with mature hedgerow the north-east of the area. Small country Wimborne Wiltshire Downs AONB. Possible trees present. house and associated parkland, but orientation Road highways/access is principally south with shelter belts • Contains the Blandford Bypass locally designated constraints. separating it from the search area. as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. A part of this area is • There is the potential for setting change to • Structures include the small Blandford Water at risk of flooding. Buzbury Rings (a Scheduled Iron Age Treatment Works in the south of the area and settlement) to the south-east – although large detached properties in the north. ✓ intervening topography may preclude effects. • The southern part of the area of search is within • A non-designated Pumping Station lies within Heritage – Yes, take through to Stage the Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs the search area and is susceptible to 2. AONB. physical/setting change. The HER records a prehistoric burnt mound within the site – may be a potential indicator of elevated archaeological potential.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 9 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Code Character analysis Explain location if partial & Name Area(s) Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

C: Land to East Impacts on the • Fields slope gently downwards towards the River • No designated heritage assets within boundary Landscape – Yes, take whole area the north of Blandford/ AONB, the landscape Stour, from an elevation of 65m AOD in the north – although potentially curtilage-listed through to Stage 2. Although likely to be the River Pimperne and water quality. to 40m AOD in the south. structures bisected by area boundary. sensitive due to conservation area, Stour Downs and location within AONB and the A small part of this • Medium-large arable fields with some in field • A cluster of grade II listed buildings stand on Mid Stour contribution to the sense of separation area is at risk of trees as well as thick tall hedgerows with mature the boundary to the east, including a rural Valley between Blandford Forum and Langton flooding. hedgerow trees. parish church and farmhouse. Potential to Long Blandford. • The Blandford Forum, Blandford St Mary and impact on the setting of both, which currently Bryanston Conservation Area is adjacent to the retain their secluded rural setting and separation from the principal settlement. X west. • Contains some of the small village of Langton • Abuts Conservation Area at the west corner of Heritage – Yes. Although likely to affect Long Blandford. the search area, with potential to affect its setting of listed buildings, along with rural setting by extending development into potential for loss/harm to curtilage- • Contributes to the sense of separation between previous undeveloped space. listed structures, and this would need to Blandford Forum and the small settlement of be explored in detail in Stage 2, but • Potential for setting change to the scheduled Langton Long Blandford. there may be scope for some Buzbury Rings – although intervening development to the northern edge of the • The entirety of the area of search is within the topography suggests this is unlikely. Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB. area. • No recorded non-designated archaeology.

D: Land to Mid Stour Impacts on the • An area of flat floodplain to the south-west of2.2 the • A number of listed buildings are within the Landscape – Yes, take whole area the south of Valley and setting of the AONB, River Stour. southern half of the search area, including through to Stage 2. Although likely to be the River South the landscape, water grade II* listed church and farmhouse, which sensitive due to historic landscape • A mixture of arable and pasture farmland Stour Blandford quality and heritage currently retain their rural setting. character and role in separating separated by gappy hedgerows. There are some Downs assets. A large part Blandford Forum and Lower Blandford St mature hedgerow and in-field trees. • Borders the conservation area at a transition of this area is at risk Mary. point from urban into rural, a relationship that of flooding. • The area contributes to the landscape setting of is one of the reasons for the area’s designation the conservation area. as it illustrates its historic relationship and X • The village of Lower Blandford St Mary is within reliance on the surrounding countryside for its the area of search. Maintains separation between prosperity. Heritage – No. Potential for considerable Blandford Forum and Lower Blandford St Mary. effects on significance of a number of • There is the potential for archaeology relating designated heritage assets through to the medieval settlement of Lower Blandford alterations to their setting, which would St Mary, a shrunken village. be unlikely to be effectively mitigated as it is the principle of developing the land that would cause the harm.

E: Land to South Impacts on the • Sloping land, with its highest point in the south- • No designated heritage assets within the Landscape – Yes, take whole area the south- Blandford landscape. west at an elevation of 75m AOD. search area. through to Stage 2. east of Downs Part of this area is • Medium-large sized arable fields and an • North of the search area is adjacent to the Blandford St currently in use as ✓ extensive solar farm. listed buildings contained within area D, so Mary an operational solar potential to affect their setting. • There is a small area of young woodland and farm (Littleton Solar scattered mature in-field trees. • Archaeological evaluation of a large part of the Farm) and part it is site (for solar farm) proved negative save for currently • Settlement is limited to several properties along post-medieval and modern agricultural activity safeguarded for a

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 10 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Code Character analysis Explain location if partial & Name Area(s) Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

proposed bypass Ward’s Drove. and landscape divisions. Heritage – Yes. Potential for existing (see paragraph 6.14 settlement of Blandford St Mary to be above). extended into this area, but sensitivity Furthermore, part of of the listed buildings’ settings may limit this area is identified it to partial development. The extent as a housing growth that development may be appropriate area in LPP14 and should be explored more in Stage 2. has been granted outline planning permission for residential development (shown on the Areas of Search map). There is potential that further land, to the south-east of the land subject to the outline planning permission, could be identified for possible development.

F: Land to South Impacts on • Land sloping downward towards Blandford St2.3 North • Northern section of search area within the North Landscape (north) – No, due to the the west of Blandford biodiversity, the Mary and the River Stour. Highest elevation is in boundary of the conservation area. presence of sensitive landscape features Blandford St Downs AONB/setting of the the south at 85m AOD. In the north of the area a including; ancient woodland, the steep • Potential to affect the setting of a number of Mary AONB, the landscape steep slope known as the Cliff is adjacent to the landform of the Cliff, the conservation listed buildings contained within the and heritage assets. River Stour. area and because it lies within the conservation area. Parts of this area Dorset AONB • Land use is mostly arable fields although a (land at Lower • No known archaeology within the site. considerable proportion near Lower Bryanston Heritage (north) – No. Direct impact on Bryanston Farm and Farm has been enclosed into pony paddocks. conservation area and development of Dorchester Hill) form its rural setting. a housing growth • The Cliff is locally designated as A Site Of Nature area as set out in Conservation Interest. This includes ancient South South Landscape (south) – Yes, take through LPP14. semi-natural woodland which is also deciduous ✓ south of the area to Stage 2. Likely to woodland priority habitat. Land at Dorchester be sensitive due to sloping landform and Hill has been granted • The northern part of the area is within the location partially within/adjacent to the planning permission Blandford Forum, Blandford St Mary and AONB. for residential Bryanston Conservation Area. development (shown • Settlement is confined to the farm and associated on the Areas of Heritage (south) – Yes. Some buildings at Lower Bryanston Farm. Search map). There sensitivities around the setting of the is further land, to the • The northern part of the area of search is within conservation area that would need to be south-west of the the Dorset AONB. addressed at Stage 2 but scope for land subject to the partial development. planning permission, which could possibly be allocated for

4 North Dorset Local Plan Part 1 (2016)

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 11 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Code Character analysis Explain location if partial & Name Area(s) Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

residential development.

G: Stour Mid Stour Impacts on the • Flat flood plain of the River Stour. • Area completely contained within Blandford Landscape – No, due to the location Meadows Valley landscape, water Forum, Blandford St Mary and Bryanston within the conservation area and the • Enclosed by the settlement of Blandford Forum to quality and heritage Conservation Area. contribution to the gap between the north, Blandford St Mary to the south, and assets. Blandford St Mary and Blandford Forum. the A354 along the eastern edge. • Potential to affect the setting of numerous The vast majority of listed buildings. • The whole of the area is within the Blandford this area is at risk of Forum, Blandford St Mary and Bryanston • Development of green, open space which is a flooding. Conservation Area. fundamental characteristic of the conservation Heritage – No. Development of any of area and illustrates the settlements’ important search area likely to have a substantial X • The whole area is part of the Stour Park open historic relationship with the river, a deciding detrimental impact on the significance of space. factor for their location in the first place. the conservation area, with potential to • There is some deciduous woodland priority affect setting of any number of listed • Space also provides a buffer between habitat in the north-west of the area. Additionally buildings too. Blandford Forum and Blandford St Mary, there are many woodlands and in-field trees. ensuring the two are still legible as related but • There is no settlement within this area. separate entities. • No archaeological features are recorded within the site by the HER.

H: Crown Mid Stour Impacts on • Relatively flat floodplain to the north and east of • Area completely contained within Blandford Landscape – Yes, take whole area Meadows Valley biodiversity, the the River Stour. Forum, Blandford St Mary & Bryanston through to Stage 2. Likely to be landscape, water Conservation Area. sensitive due to semi-natural habitats, • Land is all within Bryanston Park, some of which quality and heritage setting provided to the conservation is enclosed for pony paddocks. There are playing • This search area is an extension of area G and assets. area and The Cliff. fields associated with the school in the north of its undeveloped character is essential to our A large part of this the area. appreciation and understanding of the historic area is at risk of and aesthetic significance of the conservation • Parts of the area are identified as floodplain flooding. area. grazing marsh priority habitat. There is also a small strip of deciduous woodland priority habitat • There are two grade II listed buildings right on X and scattered in-field trees. the boundary of this area, with the potential to Heritage – No. Development of any of affect the setting of a number of listed search area likely to have a substantial • The whole of the area is within the Blandford buildings within the conservation area. detrimental impact on the significance of Forum, Blandford St Mary and Bryanston the conservation area, with potential to Conservation Area. • No archaeological features are recorded within affect setting of any number of listed the site by the HER. • There is no settlement within this area of search. buildings too. Dorset AONB is adjacent to the west of the area of search.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 12 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Code Character analysis Explain location if partial & Name Area(s) Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

I: Land at Mid Stour Impacts on • Western half of the flat broad valley of the River • Apart from the northern-most tip, the area is Landscape – No, due to the steep Bryanston Valley and biodiversity, the Stour. In the south of the area a steep slope completely contained within Blandford Forum, topography of The Cliff, frequent semi- North Dorset AONB, the known as the Cliff is adjacent to the River Stour Blandford St Mary & Bryanston Conservation natural habitats on the floodplain, its Chalk landscape, water which rises to 70m AOD. Area. There are a number of listed buildings location within the historic landscape of Escarpment quality and heritage within the search area, including the grade I the conservation area and its presence • Mixed farmland, woodland and recreational land assets. listed Portman Chapel. within the Dorset AONB. uses. A large part of this • This search area is an extension of the • The Cliff is locally designated as a Site Of Nature area is at risk of character of areas G and H, and its Conservation Interest. This includes ancient flooding. undeveloped character is essential to the semi-natural woodland which is also deciduous appreciation and understanding of the historic woodland priority habitat. The Bryanston SSSI is Heritage – No. Development of any of and aesthetic significance of the conservation X also within this area. The flat floodplain of the search area likely to have a substantial area. River Stour is floodplain grazing marsh priority detrimental impact on the significance of habitat. • No archaeological features are recorded within the conservation area, with potential to the site by the HER. affect setting of a number of listed • The majority of the area of search is located buildings too. within the Blandford Forum, Blandford St Mary and Bryanston Conservation Area.

• Settlement within the area of search includes parts of Bryanston.

• The majority of the area of search is within the Dorset AONB.

J: Land off North Dorset Impacts on • Undulating landform with elevation ranging • Southern-most extent of area extends into the Landscape – Yes, take whole area Tin Pot Lane Chalk biodiversity, the between 55m and 85m AOD. conservation area and also forms part of its through to Stage 2. Escarpment, AONB and the setting. • Land use includes arable fields and pony Cranborne landscape. paddocks. Fields are divided by hedgerows and • Within the setting of a grade II listed Chase Possible highways rows of trees. Some woodland strips are farmhouse and gate piers. Wooded Chalk constraints to deciduous woodland priority habitat. Downland and • The western side of the area includes non- development relating Mid Stour • Mostly unsettled. The whole of the area of search designated archaeological assets (the site of a to the adequacy of Valley is located within the Cranborne Chase & West watermill and fields system) susceptible to Tin Pot Lane. Wiltshire Downs AONB. physical change. Heritage – Yes. Potential to affect It is understood that setting of listed buildings and this would there are likely to be ✓ need to be explored in detail in Stage 2, ground but there may be scope for some contamination issues development to the northern edge of the in relation to part of area. the area. There may be some scope for development in relation to the parcels of land that front onto Tin Pot Lane.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 13 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Code Character analysis Explain location if partial & Name Area(s) Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

K: Land at North Dorset Impacts on the • The area of search slopes gently downward • No designated heritage assets within boundary Landscape – Yes, take whole area Camp Down Chalk AONB and the towards Blandford Forum with elevation ranging of search area. through to Stage 2. Main sensitivities Escarpment landscape. between 80m-100m AOD. likely to relate to location within the • Potential to affect the setting of a scheduled and AONB. The distance to local • Land predominantly used for arable agriculture Iron Age farmstead that lies to the north. Cranborne services and facilities although areas of pig keeping and pony paddocks Chase • Potential for physical change to non- located within the are also present. Wooded Chalk designated archaeology (including an 18th town centre. Downland • Fields are divided by hedgerows with frequent century military camp “Shroton Camp” and X tree. Young strips of planted woodland also occur Bronze Age settlement). between fields.

• Unsettled rural landscape with structures limited to farms and agricultural buildings. Heritage – Yes. Potentially some sensitivities relating to setting of the • The whole of the area of search is located within scheduled monument that will need to the Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs be explored at Stage 2. AONB.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 14 October 2019 Conclusions

The tables below provide information on areas of search taken through to Stage 2 to be assessed in more detail. Please refer to the previous table for more detailed reasoning behind these decisions. Some of the areas of search have been split geographically due to differences in sensitivity within them and therefore may appear in both tables. Further information on specific locations included/excluded is also provided in the tables.

Areas of search scoped out of Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

Scoped out on landscape/heritage grounds

D: Land to the south of the River Stour The whole of this area is excluded on heritage grounds.

F: Land to the west of Blandford St The north of this area is excluded on landscape and Mary (North) heritage grounds.

G: Stour Meadows The whole of this area is excluded on landscape and heritage grounds.

H: Crown Meadows The whole of this area is excluded on heritage grounds.

I: Land at Bryanston The whole of this area is excluded on landscape and heritage grounds.

Scoped out on other grounds

C: Land to the north of the River Stour Exclude a small part of the south of this area due to (south) presence of flood zones.

Areas of search to take forward to Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

A: Land between Higher Shaftesbury Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Road and Salisbury Road

B: Land between Salisbury Road and Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Wimborne Road

C: Land to the north of the River Stour Take all of the area except the southernmost part on to Stage 2.

E: Land to the south-east of Blandford Take forward whole area to Stage 2. St Mary

F: Land to the west of Blandford St Take forward the south of the area to Stage 2. Mary (south)

J: Land off Tin Pot Lane Take forward whole area to Stage 2.

K: Land at Camp Down Take forward whole area to Stage 2.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 15 October 2019 Area 3 Gillingham: Stage 1 assessment

3.1 The areas of search which form the spatial framework for the Gillingham Stage 1 assessment are mapped below.

Figure 3.1: Areas of search for Gillingham

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 16 October 2019 Area Area of Search Assessments

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

A: Blackmore Impacts on the landscape • Shreen Water is located to the east of the • Northern tip of the search area extends into the Landscape – Yes, take whole area Bowridge Vale and and water quality. settlement edge. The landform slopes up Colesbrook Conservation Area. This heritage through to Stage 2. Although likely to Hill Urban from 70m AOD adjacent to Gillingham to asset’s significance lies in its rural setting, be sensitive due to sloping landform Part of this area is at risk 95m AOD in the east. character and appearance that keeps it distinct and conservation area. of flooding. from Gillingham, and the strong historic and • Land cover is primarily irregular medium- visual relationship between the mill buildings and scale pasture fields. the Shreen Water. • Fields are enclosed by hedgerows with • Within the setting of the grade II listed Purns Mill occasional trees. Woodland follows the House and the undesignated Purns Mill complex North Heritage (north) – No. Direct impact on course of Shreen Water. of buildings, which form the core of the character and appearance of • The northern part of the area of search is conservation area. conservation area and setting of listed within the Colesbrook Conservation Area. building. • Southern part of search area has less heritage • Settlement is limited to scattered residential sensitivities as it is adjacent to C20 development X properties. that is not of historic interest.

• No archaeological features are recorded within the search area by the HER. But the HLC indicates that a large part of the site comprises piecemeal enclosure and therefore may include historically South3.2 Heritage (south) – Yes. This is a large important hedgerows. search area and there is scope for • The Shreen Water passes through the site and some development to the south of it as there is the potential for alluvial deposits and an extension to the extant C20 geoarchaeology/ archaeology typically associated expansion of Gillingham. with such deposits.

B: Blackmore Impacts on the landscape • Landform slopes gently towards the valley • No designated heritage assets within the Landscape – Yes, take whole area Windyridge Vale and and water quality. of the River Lodden. boundary of the search area. through to Stage 2. Urban Possible highways/access • Land use includes both arable and pasture • Southern section adjacent to the scheduled King’s constraints. fields, as well as a football club and pitch. Court Palace moated site; potential to affect significance through alterations to its setting, in Part of this area is at risk • Semi-natural habitats are limited to some particular in the southern part of the search area of flooding. mature trees along the riparian zone and which the HER indicates formed part of the deer within hedgerows. park associated with the palace site. ✓ Heritage – Yes. There is potential to • There is no settlement within this area. • The HLC indicates that a large part of the site affect the setting of the scheduled comprises medieval piecemeal enclosure and monument and directly impact on therefore may include historically important undesignated archaeology and this hedgerows. would need to be explored further at Stage 2. • The River Lodden passes through the search area and there is the potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaelogy/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 17 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

C: Royal Blackmore Impacts on biodiversity, • Landform is gently undulating and ranges • Area includes King’s Court Palace moated site Landscape – Yes, take who area Forest Vale the landscape, water between 75m and 80m AOD. scheduled monument. The search area lies through to Stage 2. However, likely to quality and heritage • Land use is mixed arable and pasture in completely within the historic deer park and be sensitive due to important cultural assets. medium-large scale fields. medieval royal estate associated with this and natural heritage features. scheduled monument and so any development Development would be isolated from Part of this area is at risk • Frequent in-field trees, mature hedgerow here is likely to have a considerable impact on the existing settlement. of flooding. trees and woodland, including ancient semi- significance of the heritage asset. natural woodlands at King’s Court Wood and Palemead Coppice. • A portion of the park pale lies to the south of this monument and is also scheduled. Although only • Palemead Coppice and King's Court Wood part of the park pale has a statutory designation, are locally designated as sites of nature its extent is preserved in extant field boundaries, conservation interest. including apparently upstanding sections (mapped • The scheduled monument King's Court by OS and visible on aerial photography). As Heritage – No. Development here would almost certainly cause an X Palace moated site is an important cultural such, the relationship between the two heritage feature. monuments, the legibility of that relationship and unacceptable level of harm to the the extent of the park, and the lack of significance of both scheduled • There are no built features in this land area. development separating them is critical to monuments and non-designated understanding and appreciating their interrelated, archaeology that could not be mitigated as well as individual, significance. as it is the principle of developing this land that is the cause of the harm. • The HLC indicates that a large part of the site comprises medieval – post-medieval piecemeal enclosure and therefore may include historically important hedgerows. • The River Lodden passes through the site and there is the potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

D: Park Blackmore Impacts on biodiversity, • Relatively flat landform between 80m to3.3 • Although there are no designated heritage assets Landscape – Yes, take whole area Farm Vale the landscape, water 85m AOD. within the boundary of the search area, it lies through to Stage 2. quality and a heritage between the two scheduled monuments of King’s • A mixture of regular shaped arable and asset. Court Palace moated site and its park pale. It pasture fields. contains a substantial section of non-designated, • Hedgerows contain occasional mature trees. but extant, park pale. ✓ Heritage – No. Development here • Mostly undeveloped; settlement is limited to • The relationship between the two and the lack of would almost certainly cause an a garden centre and Park Farm. development separating them is critical to unacceptable level of harm to the understanding and appreciating their significance. significance of both scheduled • It is also within the setting of the grade II listed monuments that could not be mitigated Park Farmhouse, which maintains its rural setting as it is the principle of developing this on the edge of Gillingham and the medieval deer land that is the cause of the harm. park.

E: Blackmore Impacts on the • Generally flat landform between 70m and • There are no designated heritage assets within Landscape – Yes, take whole area Newhouse Vale landscape. 85m AOD. the boundary of this search area. through to Stage 2.

Surface water flooding. X • Fields are medium-sized and predominantly • The HER does not record any non-designated used for pasture grazing. archaeology within the search area, but there is the potential for setting change to the deer park • Hedgerows contain many mature trees. associated with the scheduled King’s Court Palace

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 18 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

There are also several in-field ponds. site, which lies to the east. Heritage – Yes, take the whole area • Mostly unsettled; settlement includes • The HLC indicates that the western part of the through to Stage 2. limited residential properties off Cole Street search area comprises medieval piecemeal Lane and Newhouse Dairy Farm. enclosure and therefore may include historically important hedgerows.

• The presence of water courses within the area highlights a potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

F: Blackmore Impacts on the landscape • Relatively flat land associated with the 3.4 • Contains the grade II listed Madjeston Landscape – Yes, take whole area Madjeston Vale, Upper and water quality. floodplain of the River Stour. Elevation is Farmhouse. Development has potential to impact through to Stage 2. Stour Valley 70m-75m AOD. on its setting. A large part of this area is and North at risk of flooding. • Land use is a mix of arable, pasture, and • The HER records a drove way within the search Dorset equestrian. area which would be susceptible to physical Limestone There are odour issues change. Ridges relating to the sewage • There is a strip of deciduous woodland and treatment works to the an area of traditional orchard priority • The River Stour runs through the area north of the railway line. habitat. Mature trees follow the course of highlighting a potential for alluvial deposits and the river. geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated Part of the area is within with such deposits. a Health and Safety • Built features are mostly agricultural X Executive consultation infrastructure including Madjeston Old Farm Heritage – Yes, take the whole area zone which is related to a and Madjeston Farm. The area of search through to Stage 2. use at Brickfields also includes the hamlet of Eccliffe. Business Park.

G: Common Upper Stour Impacts on biodiversity • Topography slopes gently towards the River • No designated heritage assets within the Landscape – Yes, take whole area Mead Valley and and water quality. Stour. Elevation ranges from 70m-90m boundary of the search area. through to Stage 2. North Dorset AOD. Part of this area is at risk • The HER records a Bronze Age settlement within Limestone of flooding. • Land use includes mixed small-scale the search area which would be susceptible to Ridges farmland fields and a sewage treatment physical change. There are odour issues works. relating to the sewage • The HLC indicates that there are enclosed treatment works located • Semi-natural features include the River medieval strip fields to the west of the sewage X within this area. Stour, hedgerows and some mature works and these may feature historically Heritage – Yes, take the whole area hedgerow trees. important hedgerows. through to Stage 2. Part of the area is within a Health and Safety • Despite not being settled, the area of • The River Stour runs through the area Executive consultation search is surrounded by residential highlighting a potential for alluvial deposits and zone which is related to a settlement to the north and east and the geoarchaelogy/archaeology typically associated use at Brickfields railway line along the southern edge. with such deposits. Business Park.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 19 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

H: Wyke North Dorset Impacts on the • Undulating landform ranging from 80m to North • Direct impact on Wyke Conservation Area and its North Landscape (north) – No, exclude Limestone landscape, water quality 95m AOD. setting, the defining characteristics of which are northern part within conservation area Ridges and heritage assets. its strong relationship with the surrounding from Stage 2 assessment. • Medium-large irregular arable and pasture landscape, lower density development and as the Possible highways/access fields. transition point between rural and urban. constraints. • Semi-natural features include hedgerows 3.5 Landscape (south) – Yes, take through • In the setting of the grade II listed Wyke Hall and Possible development with frequent trees and an area of young to Stage 2. Although, likely to be contains its grade II listed granary, and the potential in this area planted woodland. sensitive adjacent to Wyke setting of the grade II listed Wyke Farmhouse relates to the southern Conservation Area in the north. • The northern part of the area of search is and Church of St George. Development between part of this area of search within Wyke Conservation Area which also these assets is likely to have a detrimental impact and therefore not within contains several grade II listed structures. South on the legibility of the historic relationship South Heritage (north) – No. Direct impact on close proximity of the ✓ between these assets. character and appearance of the Wyke Conservation Area. • Mostly unsettled although associated with conservation area and potentially the the existing settlement edge. Settlement is • Potential for physical change to the archaeological setting of a number of listed buildings. limited to farms and occasional house. assets recorded within the area by the HER (e.g. lynchets and a moated site).

• The HLC indicates that most of the northern half Heritage (south) – Yes. Potential for of the area comprises medieval piecemeal some development to the south of the enclosure, which may feature historically search area, but impact on important hedgerows. conservation area would need to be explored at Stage 2. • The Stock Water runs through the area highlighting a potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaelogy/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

I: North Dorset Impacts on the • Gently undulating topography ranging from • Half of Wyke Conservation Area extends into the Central Landscape – Yes, take whole area Peacemarsh Limestone landscape, water quality approximately 75m to 90m AOD. southern part of the search area. The defining part of through to Stage 2. Area adjacent to Ridges and and heritage assets. characteristics of which are its strong relationship thearea Wyke Conservation Area in the central • Small-medium scale fields under mixed Blackmore with the surrounding landscape, lower density of part of the ara of search is likely to Possible highways/access arable and pasture use. Vale development and as the transition point between search. have higher levels of sensitivity. constraints. • Natural features include mature hedgerow rural and urban. It would be susceptible to Part of this area is at risk trees and trees following the course of the physical and setting change. of flooding. River Stour. • Grade II listed Wyke Hall within the boundaries. Potential issue regarding • The southern part of the area of search is Development in this search area has the potential coalescence with Milton within the Wyke Conservation Area. The to impact on its setting. on Stour. Milton on Stour Conservation Area is • Milton on Stour Conservation Area lies to the Areas Heritage (central) – Yes. Potential for ✓ adjacent to the north-west. Possible development north of this search area, containing a number of adjacen some development in the central part potential in this area • The area of search is mostly unsettled, with listed buildings. The northern part of this search t to of the search area, but impact on both relates to land north of development limited to occasional farms. area is currently open, undeveloped space and conserv conservation areas would need to be Wavering Lane West. provides an important buffer between the later ation explored at Stage 2. areas expansion that has subsumed and amalgamated Heritage (north & south) – No. (north the historic settlements of Gillingham and Wyke. Development of these parts of the and It helps retain Milton on Stour’s separation from search area would have a detrimental south) Gillingham and its distinct character. impact on the significance of the • Potential for physical change to non-designated conservation areas and potentially the archaeological assets (e.g. a drove way and ridge setting of a number of listed buildings. and furrow) recorded by the HER.

• The HLC indicates that the open land within the Milton on Stour Conservation Area comprises

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 20 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

medieval piecemeal enclosure, which may feature historically important hedgerows.

• Potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

J: Milton on Blackmore Impacts on the • Generally flat land between 75m and 85m • No designated heritage assets within the Landscape – Yes, take whole area Stour Vale landscape, water quality AOD. boundary of the search area. through to Stage 2. Although likely to and heritage assets. be sensitive due to potential • Fields of varying sizes are mostly used for • Within the setting of the Milton on Stour coalescence with Milton on Stour. Part of this area is at risk pasture. Conservation Area and so there is the potential of flooding. for development of this land to harm its semi- • Fields are enclosed by hedgerows with rural character and significance through the Potential issue regarding frequent mature hedgerow and in-field coalescence of the settlement with Gillingham. coalescence with Milton trees. on Stour. • The HER does not record any archaeological • The Milton on Stour Conservation Area is Heritage – Yes. Potential for extension X assets within the area. located to the north of thearea of search. of the existing settlement to the north, • The HLC indicates that northern part of the site but impact on Milton on Stour • Mostly unsettled. around the Kendalls comprises medieval Conservation Area would need to be piecemeal enclosure, which may feature considered, and it would not be historically important hedgerows. appropriate to develop the north of the area as this would result in the • Potential for alluvial deposits and coalescence of the two settlements. geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

K: Blackmore Impacts on the • Relatively flat land adjacent to the Shreen • Directly affects the Colesbrook Conservation Area, Landscape – Yes. However, likely to be Colesbrook Vale and landscape, water quality Water which ranges from 75-80m AOD. the significance of which lies in its rural setting, highly sensitive due to the conservation Urban and heritage assets. character and appearance that keeps it distinct area and the role the landscape has in • Small-medium scale fields under mixed from Gillingham, and the strong historic and separating Gillingham and Milton on Part of this area is at risk pasture and arable use. visual relationship between the mill buildings and Stour. of flooding. • Semi-natural features include frequent the Shreen Water. Potential issue regarding mature hedgerow trees. • Within the setting of the grade II listed Purns Mill coalescence with Milton • A large proportion of the area of search is House and the undesignated Purns Mill complex on Stour. within the Colesbrook Conservation Area. of buildings, which form the core of the Heritage – No. Direct impact on X There is one grade II listed building, Purns conservation area. Mill House. character and appearance of • Within the setting of the Milton on Stour Colesbrook Conservation Area, setting • Settlement includes Colesbrook village. Conservation Area and so there is the potential of the listed building and the setting of for development of this land to harm its semi- Milton on Stour Conservation Area. • Plays an important part in retaining the rural character and significance through the sense of separation between Peacemarsh coalescence of the settlement with Gillingham and and Milton on Stour. Colesbrook.

• The HER does not record any archaeological assets within the area.

• The Shreen Water passes through the site and

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 21 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

there is the potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 22 October 2019 Conclusions

3.6 The tables below provide information on areas of search taken through to Stage 2 to be assessed in more detail. Please refer to the previous table for more detailed reasoning behind these decisions. Some of the areas of search have been split geographically due to differences in sensitivity within them and therefore may appear in both tables. Further information on specific locations included/excluded is also provided in the tables.

Areas of search scoped out of Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Notes Name

Scoped out on landscape/heritage grounds

A: Bowridge Hill The north of this area is excluded on heritage grounds.

C: Royal Forest The whole of this area is excluded on heritage grounds.

D: Park Farm The whole of this area is excluded on heritage grounds.

H: Wyke (north) The northern part of this area is excluded on heritage grounds.

I: Peacemarsh (north & south) The northern and southern parts of the area of search which are adjacent to conservation areas are excluded on heritage grounds.

K: Colesbrook The whole of this area is excluded on heritage grounds.

Scoped out on other grounds

A: Bowridge Hill The westernmost part of this area is excluded due to the presence of flood zones 2 and 3.

F: Madjeston Exclude central parts of the area due to the presence of flood zones 2 and 3. Combine northern part with area G.

G: Common Mead Exclude eastern part due to the presence of flood zones 2 and 3.

Areas of search to take forward to Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Notes Name

B: Windyridge Take forward whole area to Stage 2.

E: Newhouse Take forward whole area to Stage 2.

F: Madjeston Take forward southern part of area to Stage 2. The northern part has been combined with Area G.

G: Common Mead Take forward area outside of flood zones to Stage 2.

H: Wyke (south) Take forward the south of the area to Stage 2.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 23 October 2019 Area Area of Search Code & Notes Name

I: Peacemarsh (central) Take forward the centre of the area to Stage 2.

J: Milton on Stour Take forward whole area to Stage 2.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 24 October 2019 Area 4 Shaftesbury: Stage 1 assessment

4.1 The areas of search which form the spatial framework for the Shaftesbury Stage 1 assessment are mapped below.

Figure 4.1: Areas of search for Shaftesbury

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 25 October 2019 Area Area of Search Assessments

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

A: Land to Shaftesbury Impacts on the setting of ✓ • Small sections in the east of this area are • No direct impact on any designated heritage Landscape – Yes, take whole area the east of Greensand the AONB and the within Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire assets. through to Stage 2. Although landscape Shaftesbury Ridges landscape. Downs AONB. may be particularly sensitive if within or • The grade II listed Wincombe Park lies to the visible from the Cranborne Chase & The distance to local • Gently sloping parcel of land with the east of the search area, but there is a large West Wiltshire Downs AONB. services and facilities highest elevation at 222m AOD in the shelter belt and intervening topography that situated within the town north. separates it from the search area and its centre. setting is unlikely to be affected. • Mixed, small-scale arable and pasture Part of this area is identified fields. • A large shelter belt and intervening as a housing growth area in topography that separates the grade II listed • There is a small amount of deciduous LPP14 and has been granted house (“The Priory”) at Higher Combe from woodland priority habitat within this area outline planning permission the search area and its setting is unlikely to of search. for residential development be affected. (shown on the Areas of • Mostly undeveloped. Built features include • Beyond Wincombe Park is the scheduled Search map). agricultural and industrial structures. Castle Rings Camp, an Iron Age hillfort. Due Heritage – Yes. Sensitivities around the Sustainable Drainage to topography and the intervening park, its listed farmhouse will need to be Systems (SuDS) have been significance is unlikely to be affected by explored in Stage 2. dug along the western edge development within the search area. to serve the recent • On the boundary between search areas A and residential estate on the B is the grade II listed New Lane Farmhouse. east of the town. Development around it will alter its setting. Part of this area is currently • The HER has no records of archaeological safeguarded for an outer assets within the search area. bypass. Please see Chapter 16 (The A350 Corridor) for • The HLC indicates that there is a small area of further details and a specific piecemeal enclosure in the south-east corner question relating to the land of the area; this may feature some historically that is currently important hedgerows. safeguarded for an outer bypass at Shaftesbury. The boundary with Wiltshire County runs through the middle of this area. NDDC would only be able to propose development within its Plan Area as part of the Local Plan Review.

B: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on setting of the ✓ • Gently sloping land with elevation ranging • On the boundary between search areas A and Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Greensand AONB and the landscape. from 195m to 200m AOD. B is the grade II listed New Lane Farmhouse. through to Stage 2. Salisbury Ridges Development around it will alter its setting, The distance to local • Mix of arable and pasture land use. Fields Road (A30) the extent to which will need to be explored in services and facilities are enclosed by hedgerows with some and Higher Stage 2. situated within the town trees. Blandford centre. • To the west of the search area (within search Road • New Lane runs through the area of search. area C) is a group of grade II listed buildings Noise and disturbance etc

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 26 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

from possible future • There are limited built features within the comprising the Cann Farm complex. Heritage – Yes. Sensitivities around the employment uses on the area of search except for residential Development around it will alter its setting, listed buildings will need to be explored land to the south of A30 properties along New Lane. the extent to which will need to be explored in in Stage 2. may impact on the living Stage 2. • Adjacent to the Cranborne Chase & West conditions of future Wiltshire Downs AONB. • The HER records no archaeological assets occupiers of a residential within the area. development.

C: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on the landscape. X • Complex landform associated with a • The area contains the grade II listed buildings Landscape – No. Sensitive due to the Higher Greensand steeply incised stream valley of Boyne at Cann Farm and Mayo Cottage. complex valley landform of Boyne There is a significant Blandford Ridges and Hollow. Elevation ranges from 145 to 190m Development within their setting has the Hollow and the presence of sensitive number of large trees in this Road and Urban AOD. potential to be harmful to their significance. priority habitat woodland. area. A350 • Land cover is mostly woodland with some • Part of the area has the potential to impact on The area contains Boyne pasture fields. the setting of the Shaftesbury Conservation Hollow and the topography Heritage – No. Sensitive due to the • Woodland contains deciduous woodland Area, as one of its defining characteristics are is particularly uneven. priority habitat with broadleaved, mixed the long–ranging views north, west and south potential for impact to the heritage There are important views deciduous, shrub and conifer areas. out to open countryside. Strategically located significance of a number of designated from Shaftesbury within this on a spur, the town is also a prominent assets as a result of setting change. • Mostly undeveloped. Settlement includes area. feature in the landscape, especially when buildings at Cann Farm. viewed from the south. • The HER records two quarries in the search area; these are of negligible heritage value. A medieval buried soil is also recorded. • The HLC indicates that the site includes some medieval enclosure around Cann Farm and to the west of Boyne Hollow. This may feature some historically important hedgerows.

D: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on the landscape. ✓ • Steeply sloping topography ranging in • Search area is within the setting of the Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Greensand elevation from 135m to 195m AOD. Shaftesbury Conservation Area. This part of through to Stage 2. Main sensitivities The topography is uneven in A350 and Ridges and the conservation area has a semi-rural feel, likely to relate to the sloping landform this area and there are • Land use is primarily pasture. French Mill Urban with low density development and glimpsed and the setting of the historic settlement important views from Lane • There is a small strip of deciduous views out towards open countryside from core. Shaftesbury. woodland priority habitat. within its boundaries, which reinforces the Although a large part of this historic built environment’s connection with its Heritage – Yes. The impact on the • The area is directly adjacent to the area is considered landscape. conservation area and listed buildings Shaftesbury Conservation Area and unsuitable for development would need to be explored in more provides a rural setting to the historic • Development here could also impact on long- there may be potential that detail at Stage 2, but there may be settlement core. ranging views from the conservation area to a limited amount of land potential for some development of the the north-west of the search area, as well as could be identified for • Settlement is limited to a few scattered area. views back towards Shaftesbury from the development to the south of residential buildings. surrounding landscape. Shaftesbury School Playing Fields. However, this would • Within the setting of a number of grade II be dependent on the land listed buildings. not be required for • The HER records a quarry site of negligible education purposes. value within the area. There are possible • The HLC records a very small area of medieval access/highways constraints piecemeal enclosure to the south of the relating to this land. Wilderness. This may feature historically

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 27 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

important hedgerows.

E: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on the landscape X • Sloping landform associated with a stream • The area includes scheduled fishponds to its Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Greensand and heritage assets. valley, ranging from 120-170m AOD. northern extent, probably associated with the through to Stage 2. However, likely to French Mill Ridges, North scheduled abbey at the historic core of the be sensitive due to sloping landform and The topography is uneven in • Land use is primarily pasture. Lane and Blackmore conservation area. setting provided to Shaftesbury this area and there are the B3091 Rolling Vales • There are some mature riverside trees. Conservation Area. important views from • Direct impact on the conservation area as well and Urban Shaftesbury. • Northern sections of this area of search are as change to its setting. within the Shaftesbury Conservation Area. • Contains a number of listed grade II buildings, • Settlement within the land parcel is limited with the potential to impact on the setting of Heritage – No. Potential considerable to the buildings at Holyrood Farm other designated heritage assets within the effects on significance of a number of (including several grade II listed boundary of the conservation area. designated heritage assets through structures). • The HER records the site of a medieval manor alterations to their setting, which could and some post-medieval/ modern low-value not be mitigated as it is the principle of assets within the area. These would be developing the land that would cause susceptible to physical change. the harm. • The HLC indicates that virtually the whole site comprises medieval piecemeal enclosure.

F: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on biodiversity, the X • Topography slopes away from the hilltop • No direct impact on the conservation area, but Landscape – No, exclude due to sloping between Greensand landscape and heritage settlement, ranging in elevation of 180m this area makes a considerable contribution to landform and significant areas of B3091 and Ridges, North assets. and 120m AOD. its significance. It provides the rural designated semi-natural habitats Breach Blackmore foreground to the conservation area and The topography is uneven in • Land use is mostly pasture with areas of Common Rolling Vales creates a strong connection between the this area and there are semi-natural habitat including lowland and Urban settlement and the agricultural land that Heritage – No. Potential considerable important views from meadows and deciduous woodland priority supported its citizens. effects on significance of a number of Shaftesbury. habitat. designated heritage assets through • Development in this area has the potential to alterations to their setting, which could • Significant areas are designated for wildlife affect the celebrated view down Gold Hill, conservation including Breach Fields SSSI not be mitigated as it is the principle of which currently has a strong historic character and Long Cross which is locally designated developing the land that would cause and views out to open countryside. as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. the harm. • Within the setting of numerous listed buildings • Settlement is limited to isolated residential within the conservation area, as well as the properties. scheduled Castle Hill Earthwork. • The area contains open access land at • The HER records the site of a medieval manor, Breach Common and St. James Common. a medieval deer park and a post-medieval- modern hospital. These would be susceptible to physical change.

• The HLC indicates that the majority of the area comprises medieval common land and piece-meal enclosure. The enclosed fields are likely to feature a number of historically

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 28 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

important hedgerows.

G: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on biodiversity, the X • Topography slopes away from the hilltop • Development of the search area will have a Landscape – No, exclude due to the south of Greensand landscape and heritage settlement, with elevation ranging between direct impact on a considerable portion of the prominent complex landform and Long Cross Ridges, North assets. 115-165m AOD. In the east of the area of conservation area. This area is characterised important heritage and semi-natural and A30 Blackmore search the escarpment of Castle Hill is a by a dispersed, open settlement pattern and features. The topography is uneven in Rolling Vales prominent feature. the intimate relationship of built heritage and this area and there are and Urban the countryside. important views from • Land cover comprises small and intricate Shaftesbury. pasture fields bound by hedgerows. The • Development in this area has the potential to landscape has a well-wooded character. affect the celebrated view down Gold Hill, which currently has a strong historic character • Part of Breach Fields SSSI is located in the and views out to open countryside. area of search as well as the northern section of the locally designated Long • Within the setting of a number of grade II Cross Site of Nature Conservation Interest. listed buildings.

• The area of search contains deciduous • There are two scheduled monuments within woodland, traditional orchard and lowland the search area: the medieval fortified house meadows priority habitats. at Castle Hill and the Late Saxon urban area Heritage – No. Potential considerable east of Castle Hill. These would be susceptible effects on significance of a number of • A large proportion of the area of search (in to physical and setting change, especially as designated heritage assets through the east) is within the Shaftesbury the majority of the site includes the non- alterations to their setting, which could Conservation Area. Two scheduled designated deer park associated with the not be mitigated as it is the principle of monuments are located in the area of castle. developing the land that would cause search. the harm. • The HER also highlights a potential for further • There are scattered residential properties. medieval archaeological remains. • The proposed area contains a mapped • The HLC indicates that the whole area viewpoint looking over the escarpment comprises medieval piecemeal enclosure, edge, providing 180˚ views. which may feature a number of historically important hedgerows.

• Potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 29 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

H: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on the landscape X • An undulating and sloping landform with its • Direct impact on small parcels of the Landscape – Yes, take whole area north of Greensand and heritage assets. highest elevation on a hill to the north of conservation area but this area makes a through to Stage 2. However, likely to Long Cross Ridges, North Enmore Green (150m AOD). The land considerable contribution to its significance by be sensitive due to the complex The topography is uneven in and A30 Blackmore slopes down to the west (110m AOD). emphasising the strong connection between landform that provides rural setting to this area. Rolling Vales the settlement and the agricultural land that the Shaftesbury Conservation Area. • Land use is mixed arable and pasture and Urban The area also includes land supported its prosperity. fields. that will be developed for • Within the setting of a number of grade II the construction of the • There are some blocks of woodland, some listed buildings. Enmore Green Link Road. of which of are made up of young trees. Hedges contain frequent mature trees. • The HLC indicates that the area east of Calves Lane comprises medieval piecemeal Heritage – No. Potential considerable • The edge of the Shaftesbury Conservation enclosure. This is likely to feature a number of effects on significance of a number of Area extends into the southern part of this historically important hedgerows. designated heritage assets through area of search. alterations to their setting, which could • Potential for alluvial deposits and • Settlement is limited to residential not be mitigated as it is the principle of geoarchaeology/archaeology typically properties along the boundary of the area, developing the land that would cause associated with such deposits. following major roads. the harm. • The only assets recorded within the area by the HER are low value post-medieval and modern features.

I: Land Shaftesbury Impacts on biodiversity, ✓ • The area of search includes a steep and • Area contains the grade II* listed Pensbury North Landscape – No. Exclude due to the between Greensand AONB/setting of the AONB well-wooded escarpment edge. It ranges in House and the grade II listed Thanes steep landform and important semi- B3081 and Ridges and and the landscape. elevation from 180m to 230m AOD. Farmhouse. natural habitats. A350 Urban The topography is uneven in • Varied land cover, including small-medium • Within the setting of the Shaftesbury this area and there are scale irregular pasture fields and woodland Conservation Area and contributes to its rural important views from areas. setting. Shaftesbury. • There are six sites of locally designated Part of this area is identified sites of nature conservation interest. • The HER records various low value post- as a housing growth area in medieval and modern archaeological assets • Some of the woodland is ancient re- LPP14 and has been granted within the area. planted woodland, whilst other areas are outline planning permission identified as deciduous woodland priority • Much of the area is recorded as piecemeal for residential development habitat. There is also lowland meadow medieval enclosure by the HLC. This is likely (shown on the Areas of priority habitat. to feature a number of historically important Search map). The Council hedgerows. considers that there is no • Settlement is limited to scattered and potential to identify further isolated residential properties. • Potential for alluvial deposits and South Heritage (north) – Yes, take through to land for large scale geoarchaeology/archaeology typically Stage 2. This is a large search area and • The northern part of the area of search is development beyond that associated with such deposits. although the impact on the designated within the Cranborne Chase & West subject to the outline assets would need to be explored at Wiltshire Downs AONB. planning permission. Stage 2 there is potential for some development to the north of the area, adjacent to Shaftesbury’s later expansion.

Heritage (south) – No, exclude from Stage 2.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 30 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

J: Land Outside This area is not within North N/A • Gently sloping ground with elevations • No direct impact on any designated heritage Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Dorset Dorset district5. Any future ranging between 225m and 245m AOD. assets. through to Stage 2. Main sensitivities A350 and allocation relating to this include elevated landform and location • Land cover is mostly arable fields. There is Higher land would have to be made • Potential to affect the setting of the grade II within the AONB. also a solar farm and areas of woodland. Wincombe by Wiltshire Council. listed Thanes Farmhouse and the non- Farm • Woodland at Morgan’s Copse is identified designated Higher Wincombe Farm. as ancient semi-natural woodland and deciduous woodland priority habitat. • The scheduled Castle Rings Camp lies to the north-east of the site, but its setting is • Built features include Higher Wincombe Heritage – Yes. Impacts on the setting unlikely to be affected due to intervening Farm and some large warehouse buildings. of heritage assets would need to be topography. explored at Stage 2. • Small parts of this land parcel are within Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs • The HER records some undated field AONB. boundaries and ditches in the northern part of the site, now built over by a solar panel farm.

5 Text taken from the North Dorset Local Plan Review Issues and Options Consultation document (2017) predating North Dorset District Council becoming part of Dorset Council.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 31 October 2019 Conclusions

The tables below provide information on areas of search taken through to Stage 2 to be assessed in more detail. Please refer to the previous table for more detailed reasoning behind these decisions. Some of the areas of search have been split geographically due to differences in sensitivity within them and therefore may appear in both tables. Further information on specific locations included/excluded is also provided in the tables.

Areas of search scoped out of Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

Scoped out on landscape/heritage grounds

C: Land Higher Blandford Road and The whole area is excluded on heritage and landscape grounds. A350

E: Land between French Mill Lane and The whole area is excluded on heritage grounds. the B3091

F: Land between B3091 and Breach The whole area is excluded on landscape and heritage grounds. Common

G: Land south of Long Cross and A30 The whole area is excluded on landscape and heritage grounds.

H: Land north of Long Cross and A30 The whole area is excluded on heritage grounds.

I: Land between B3081 and A350 The whole area is excluded on landscape grounds, and partially on heritage grounds.

Scoped out on other grounds

N/A N/A

Areas of search to take forward to Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

A: Land to the east of Shaftesbury Take forward whole area to Stage 2.

B: Land between Salisbury Road (A30) Take forward whole area to Stage 2. and Higher Blandford Road

D: Land between A350 and French Mill Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Lane

J: Land between A350 and Higher Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Wincombe Farm

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 32 October 2019 Area 5 Stalbridge: Stage 1 assessment

5.1 The areas of search which form the spatial framework for the Stalbridge Stage 1 assessment are mapped below. Figure 5.1: Areas of search for Stalbridge

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 33 October 2019 Area Area of Search Assessments

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N)

Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s)

Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

A: Land North Dorset Impacts on the • Gently sloping topography ranging from 90m • A small parcel of the search area will have a Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Limestone landscape. AOD in the north-west to 60m AOD in the direct impact on the Stalbridge Conservation through to Stage 2. The sloping landform A357 and Ridges and east. Area. and setting the landscape provides to Possible highways Station Blackmore Stalbridge Conservation Area may constraints relating to the • Fields are generally medium-large sized and • The remainder of the area is within the setting Road Vale increase sensitivity. capacity of the highway used for a mixture of arable and pastoral of the conservation area and forms the rural network at Stalbridge. farming. Fields are primarily enclosed by thick backdrop for the town, illustrating the hedgerows. important history of the town’s agricultural commerce. • There is a small area of traditional orchard priority habitat along Drew’s Lane. Potential to affect the setting of a number of • Heritage – Yes. The impact on the listed buildings, including the grade II* listed • The south-western corner of the area of significance of heritage assets needs to be Church of St Mary. ✓ search is within the Stalbridge Conservation explored at Stage 2, but there is scope for Area. • The HER records a couple of low-value post- further extension of the town to the south medieval industrial assets within the area. of the search area where C20 expansion Settlement is limited to occasional farms • has already taken place. including Wards Hill Farm and Sunnyridge • The HLC indicates that the central part of the Farm. area is comprised of enclosed medieval strip fields.

• A tributary of the River Cale passes through the search area and highlights a potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

B: Land Blackmore Impacts on biodiversity • Principally flat parcel of land at an elevation of • No direct impact on any designated heritage Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Vale and the landscape. approximately 60m AOD. assets. through to Stage 2. Station Possible highways • Fields are medium-large and used for a • The HER does not record any archaeological Road and constraints relating to the mixture of arable and pastoral farming. assets within the area. Lower capacity of the highway Road • Stalbridge Site of Nature Conservation • The HLC indicates that the southern part of network at Stalbridge. Interest is locally designated and located in the site comprises medieval piecemeal Heritage – Yes. The impact on the ✓ the west of the area of search. enclosure. This may contain hedgerows that significance of heritage assets needs to be qualify as historically important. explored at Stage 2, but there is scope for • Fields are enclosed by hedgerows with mature further development within this search trees. • Bibbern Brook passes through the search area area. and highlights a potential for alluvial deposits • Rural with occasional farm buildings although and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically has an association with the adjacent built associated with such deposits. edge.

C: Land North Dorset Impacts on the • Gently sloping topography which falls towards • No direct impact on any designated heritage Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Limestone landscape. the Bibbern Brook to the south-east. Elevation assets. through to Stage 2. Lower Ridges and ranges between 55m and 73m AOD. Possible highways • The HER does not record any archaeological Road and Blackmore constraints relating to the ✓ • Medium-large scale fields are mostly used for assets within the area and the HLC indicates Thornhill Vale capacity of the highway pastoral grazing. that it comprises modern enclosure. Road network at Stalbridge. • Fields are enclosed by hedgerows with mature • Bibbern Brook passes through the search area Heritage – Yes. The impact on the trees. Trees are located along Bibbern Brook. and highlights a potential for alluvial deposits significance of heritage assets needs to be

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 34 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N)

Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s)

Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

• Primarily unsettled although there are some and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically explored at Stage 2, but there is scope for dispersed properties on the outskirts of associated with such deposits. further development within this search Stalbridge and Bibberne Farm. area. • Associated with the urban edge to the north.

D: Land North Dorset Impacts on biodiversity, • The area of search is at an elevation of 110m • The Stalbridge Conservation Area extends into Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Limestone the landscape and a AOD in the north-west and slopes down a considerable portion of the search area. through to Stage 2. However, likely to be Thornhill Ridges heritage asset. towards Stalbridge and the stream valley to highly sensitive due to the conservation • The economy of the town was agricultural and Road and the west. area. Possible highways so its rural setting contributes to our Barrow constraints relating to the • Land is mostly divided into medium-large understanding and appreciation of its historic Hill capacity of the highway fields used for arable farming. There are also and aesthetic significance. The open, network at Stalbridge. two large woodlands within the area. undeveloped nature frames the conservation area on approaches from the south, west and ✓ • Harpitts woodland is identified as priority north. Heritage – No. Development in this area habitat. Part of the Basel Bridge SNCI is is likely to have a considerable harmful located in the west of the area of search. • The HER does not record any archaeological impact on the significance of the assets within the site and the HLC indicates • Most of the northern extent of this area is Stalbridge Conservation Area. that it comprises planned enclosure. within the Stalbridge Conservation Area.

• Settlement includes properties scattered along Wood Lane as well as Wood Lane Farm.

E: Land North Dorset Impacts on the landscape • The area of search slopes gently from west • The Stalbridge Conservation Area extends into Landscape – No. Undulating, elevated between Limestone and heritage assets. (120m AOD) to east (85m AOD). a considerable portion of the search area and landform with scenic qualities and located Barrow Ridges the remainder is within its setting. The within the historic landscape of the Possible highways • Medium-large fields are used for arable and Hill and conservation area includes a number of listed conservation area constraints relating to the pasture farming. A playing field is located A357 buildings that lie adjacent to the search area capacity of the highway adjacent to the settlement. and could be affected in terms of setting, Heritage – No. Development likely to network at Stalbridge. • Well-wooded character with numerous copses especially the grade II* listed Church of St have an unacceptable impact on the and in-field trees. An avenue of mature trees Mary. significance of numerous designated creates an estate parkland character. heritage assets. • The economy of the town was agricultural and • A large part of the area of search is within the so its rural setting contributes to our Stalbridge Conservation Area. understanding and appreciation of its historic and aesthetic significance. The open, • There are two grade II listed buildings within undeveloped nature frames the conservation the area of search. There are also manorial area on approaches from the south, west and X earthworks marked on the OS map. north. • Built features limited to those associated with • Area also includes a large portion of historic Home Farm. parkland associated with the grade II listed Stalbridge Park Farmhouse, which lies within the boundary of the search area, along with the non-designated earthwork and buried remains of the former manor house and the parks grade II listed gate and gate piers. The associated keeper’s cottage and old barn stand outside the search area but are historically associated with the farmhouse and are grade II listed in their own right.

• There is potential to affect the setting of a number of other grade II listed buildings

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 35 October 2019 Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N)

Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s)

Name Development potential? Landscape score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

within the conservation area.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 36 October 2019 Conclusions

The tables below provide information on areas of search taken through to Stage 2 to be assessed in more detail. Please refer to the previous table for more detailed reasoning behind these decisions. Some of the areas of search have been split geographically due to differences in sensitivity within them and therefore may appear in both tables. Further information on specific locations included/excluded is also provided in the tables.

Areas of search scoped out of Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

Scoped out on landscape/heritage grounds

D: Land between Thornhill Road The whole of this area has been excluded on heritage and Barrow Hill grounds.

E: Land between Barrow Hill and The whole of this area has been excluded on landscape and A357 heritage grounds.

Scoped out on other grounds

C: Land between Lower Road and The south-eastern edge of the area is excluded because it is Thornhill Road (south-east) within flood zones 2 and 3.

Areas of search to take forward to Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

A: Land between A357 and Station Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Road

B: Land between Station Road and Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Lower Road

C: Land between Lower Road and Take forward area to Stage 2, excluding parts of the area of Thornhill Road search and flood zones 2 and 3 in the south-east.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 37 October 2019 Area 6 Sturminster Newton: Stage 1 assessment

6.1 The Areas of Search which form the spatial framework for the Sturminster Newton Stage 1 assessment are mapped below.

Figure 6.1: Areas of search for Sturminster Newton (Issues and Options Consultation Report, November 2017)

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 38 October 2019 Area Area of Search Assessments

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name potential andscape Development L score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

A: Land North Dorset Impacts on the • Landform gently slopes down from the hilltop near • The north-west corner of the search area Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Limestone landscape, water quality Yewstock Plantation at 93m AOD to 50m AOD in has a direct impact on the Hinton St Mary through to Stage 2. Although likely to be B3092 and Ridges and and heritage assets. the east. Conservation Area. sensitive due to the elevated position Manston Blackmore and contribution to the sense of Part of this area is • Land use is mixed, but mostly arable farmland. • Within this conservation area are a grade Road Vale separation between settlements. identified as a housing II* listed manor house, tithe barn and • Contains several small woodlands, including three growth area (Land north stable block, as well as the scheduled areas of deciduous woodland priority habitat. of Northfields) in LPP14. remains of a Roman villa. • The north-western tip of the area of search is • The western portion of this area provides within the Hinton St Mary Conservation Area. an important buffer between Hinton St Heritage – Yes. Northern part of the ✓ • Primarily unsettled and rural with structures Mary and Sturminster Newton, the area is unlikely to be suitable due to the limited to those at Elm Farm. boundaries of which could be blurred by impact on a number of designated development between the two. • The area of search strongly contributes to the heritage assets, particularly the Hinton sense of separation between Sturminster Newton • Eastern and southern parts of the search St Mary Conservation Area, which would and Hinton St Mary. area are adjacent to C20/C21 expansion of be susceptible to physical and setting Sturminster Newton, which is not change. However, there is potential in designated for any heritage interest. the southern and eastern parts of the search area. Impact on heritage assets • The HER records ridge and furrow near would need to be explored at Stage 2. Yewstock Plantation.

B: Land to North Dorset Impacts on biodiversity, • Topography slopes from 65m AOD adjacent to • There are no designated heritage assets Landscape – Yes, take whole area the east of Limestone the landscape and water Sturmister Newton to 50m AOD at Chivrick’s Book within the boundary of the search area. through to Stage 2. North of the area Sturminster Ridges, quality. in the east of the area of search. likely to be sensitive due to steeply • Abuts the Sturminster Newton Blackmore sloping topography to the east of Part of this area is also • Fields are used for mixed arable and pasture. Conservation Area to its south-west corner. Vale and Manston Road. at risk of flooding. Upper Stour • Hedgerows contain frequent mature trees and • Has the potential to affect the setting of a Valley Odour issues relating to there is a small section of deciduous woodland number of listed buildings within the the sewage treatment priority habitat. conservation area, including the grade I works off Bull Ground listed Church of St Mary. The setting of the • A sewage treatment works is located in the south Lane. Also scheduled Sturminster Castle may also be of the area of search. highways/access affected. constraints in respect of • The southern part of the area is directly east of the • The River Stour and a tributary form the Bull Ground Lane. Sturminster Newton Conservation Area and ✓ boundary between areas B and C, Heritage – Yes. The impact on heritage contributes to the rural setting of the historic core Although a large part of highlighting a potential for alluvial deposits assets needs to be addressed at Stage of Sturminster Newton. this area is considered and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically 2. unsuitable for • The area of search is unsettled, excepting Elm associated with such deposits. development, part of this Close Farm. • The HER records no archaeological assets area is identified as a within the area but the HLC records an housing growth area area of water meadows at its southern (Land east of the former end. Creamery) in LPP14. There might be potential that further land could be identified for development to the

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 39 October 2019

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name potential andscape Development L score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

north-east of this housing growth area.

C: Land Upper Stour Impacts on biodiversity, • Flat floodplain of the River Stour. • Direct impact on Sturminster Newton Landscape – No. The area is isolated between Valley, North the landscape, water • Land cover comprises irregular pasture fields. Conservation Area, including the from the rest of Sturminster Newton by the River Dorset quality and heritage undeveloped land between the historic core the River Stour. This area also plays an Stour and Limestone assets. • Natural features include frequent hedgerow trees of the conservation area and the scheduled important role in preventing the the A357 Ridges and and small areas of woodland, some of which are monument of Sturminster Castle on the coalescence of Sturminster Newton with A large part of this area South deciduous woodland priority habitat. other side of the river. The legibility of this Newton. is at risk of flooding. Blackmore • Much of the western side of the area is within the relationship is fundamental to our Rolling Vales Poor accessibility to local Sturminster Newton Conservation Area. understanding and appreciation of the Heritage – No. Potential considerable services and facilities significance of both assets. • The area is overlooked by the elevated land to the effects on significance of a number of situated within the town south. • The rural setting the area provides for the designated heritage assets through centre. town is also an important part of its alterations to their setting, which could • This land parcel is unsettled. character, illustrating the historic not be mitigated as it is the principle of • The River Stour separates the area of search from importance of rural commerce to the town. developing the land that would cause the existing built edge of Sturminster Newton. the harm. • The significance of the grade II listed x • This area also plays an important role in ornamental spring head within the search preventing the coalescence of Sturminster Newton area is unlikely to be affected, but the site with the distinct settlement of Newton. is within the setting of a number of listed buildings, including the grade I listed Church of St Mary. • The HER records no archaeological assets within the area but the HLC records an area of water meadows at its southern end. • The River Stour and a tributary pass through the area highlighting a potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

D: Land to South Impacts on biodiversity, • Sloping landform including a steep stream valley. • Direct impact on Sturminster Newton Landscape – No. Landform is sloping the south Blackmore the landscape and Conservation Area, the scheduled and elevated, development of these • Mostly small-scale intricate fields with a mix of of Newton Rolling Vales heritage assets. Sturminster Castle and the setting of areas would not be in keeping with arable and pasture use. The area of search also numerous listed buildings, including Wool settlement pattern. Poor accessibility to local contains a solar farm and several woodland areas. House Farm, which lies immediately south services and facilities x • The Coombs locally designated Site of Nature of the search area. situated within the town Conservation Interest is located in the centre of centre. • The rural setting this area provides for the the area of search. town is also an important part of its • Most of the woodland along the stream valley is character, illustrating the historic deciduous woodland priority habitat. importance of rural commerce to the town.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 40 October 2019

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name potential andscape Development L score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

• The scheduled monument of Sturminster Castle is • The HER records ridge and furrow within North Heritage (north) – No. Likely to result in adjacent to the north of the area of search. the area and the HLC indicates that much considerable harm to a number of of the southern part of the site comprises • Much of the northern extent of the area is within designated heritage assets. medieval piecemeal enclosure. This is likely the Sturminster Newton Conservation Area. to contain a number of hedgerows that • The area is sparsely settled with dispersed qualify as historically important. South Heritage (south) – Yes. There is scope residential properties and farms. for some development to the southern • The presence of a small watercourse portion of the area, but the impact on highlights a potential for alluvial deposits the setting of heritage assets to the and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically north would need to be explored first at associated with such deposits. Stage 2. • This is a large search area and there may be scope for some development to the south of it, although consideration will need to be given to the potential for change to medieval linear settlement of Broad Oak.

E: Land South Impacts on the • Gently rolling topography sloping up from the • Area contains three listed buildings and is Landscape – Yes, take whole area between Blackmore landscape and water River Divelish in the west. Elevation ranges within the setting of a number of others. through to Stage 2. Glue Hill Rolling Vales quality. between 55m and 78m AOD. • Within the setting of the conservation area and the and Poor accessibility to local • Land cover comprises medium-scale fields under and potentially the setting of the scheduled A357 Blackmore services and facilities mixed agricultural use. Sturminster Castle. Vale situated within the town • The Sturminster Newton Conservation Area is • Part of the rural setting of the conservation centre. adjacent to the east of the area of search. area, but potential for an extension of extant development to the southern • Natural features are limited to the occasional boundary of the search area. x mature hedgerow tree. • The River Divelish passes through the • Settlement includes Barnhaven Farm and Heritage – Yes. The potential impact on search area and highlights a potential for properties at Rolls Mill. the heritage assets would need to be alluvial deposits and explored at Stage 2. geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

• Much of the search area comprises medieval piecemeal enclosure. This is likely to contain hedgerows that qualify as historically important. Impacts on the F: Land South landscape, water quality • Gently undulating landform with elevation ranging • Direct impact on Sturminster Newton Landscape – Yes, take whole area surrounding Blackmore between 71m and 50m AOD. Conservation Area and its rural setting. through to Stage 2. Sensitivities include and heritage assets. x North Rolling Vales, the conservation area and priority • The River Divelish crosses from north to south • Within the setting of a number of listed Dorset Blackmore Part of this area is at risk habitats.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 41 October 2019

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name potential andscape Development L score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

Business Vale and of flooding. through the area of search. buildings. Heritage – Yes. The potential impact on Park Upper Stour • Irregular shaped fields mostly used for pasture • The River Divelish passes through the the heritage assets would need to be Valley Living conditions/amenity issues relating to locating with some arable farming. search area and highlights a potential for explored at Stage 2. residential development alluvial deposits and • Woodland here contains some Deciduous adjacent to employment geoarchaelogy/archaeology typically Woodland and Floodplain Grazing Marsh Priority uses. associated with such deposits. Habitat; there are also frequent in-field trees, likely remnants of historic field boundaries. • Most of the search area comprises medieval and post-medieval piecemeal • A small part of the Sturminster Newton enclosure. This is likely to contain Conservation Area falls within the east of this area. hedgerows that qualify as historically • There are some scattered residential properties important. and farms within the area of search.

G: Land to Upper Stour Impacts on the • Small parcel of flat floodplain land. • Located entirely within the Sturminster Landscape – No. This area maintains the south Valley and landscape, water quality Newton Conservation Area. sense of separation between • Land cover comprises large pasture grazing fields. of North Dorset and heritage assets. Sturminster Newton and Newton. It also • Within the setting of the scheduled Sturminster Limestone • The majority of the site is identified to be contains sensitive priority habitats and is A large part of this area Sturminster Castle and a number of listed Newton Ridges floodplain and grazing marsh priority habitat. within the conservation area. is at risk of flooding. buildings. Recreation There are also smaller areas of deciduous Ground woodland priority habitat. • Search area is within the loop of the river, which defines the extent of the medieval • The whole area of search is within the Sturminster settlement of Sturminster Newton and Newton Conservation Area. x provides the backdrop for the relationship • The area of search is undeveloped. of the town with the scheduled castle, Heritage – No. Potential considerable located just south of the river loop. • Plays a key role in preventing the coalescence of effects on significance of a number of Sturminster Newton with Newton. • The HER records no known archaeology designated heritage assets, which could within the search area, but the River Stour not be mitigated as it is the principle of passes through the search area and developing the land that would cause highlights a potential for alluvial deposits the harm. and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits.

H: Land to Upper Stour Impacts on the • Sloping valley of the River Stour to the west and • South-eastern extent directly impacts on Landscape – Yes, take through to Stage the west of Valley, South landscape and water the flat floodplain to the east. the conservation area. The rest of the 2. Although likely to be sensitive as the the River Blackmore quality. search area is within its rural setting. area is isolated from the rest of • Fields are mostly grazed pasture. Stour Rolling Vales Sturminster Newton by landform and Highways/access • The historic development pattern of the and North x • The area of search contains areas of floodplain and the River Stour. constraints. town is contained within the loop of the Dorset grazing marsh and deciduous woodland priority river; the majority of the search area is on Limestone A large part of this area habitats. the opposite side of the river and would Ridges is at risk of flooding. • Part of the eastern extent is within the Sturminster affect its undeveloped character and the

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 42 October 2019

Area of Landscape Issues and options LUC high-level landscape analysis LUC high-level heritage analysis Take through to Stage 2? (Y/N) Search Character recommendation Explain location if partial Code & Area(s) Name potential andscape Development L score (RAG) Heritage score (RAG)

Newton Conservation Area. rural setting this affords the town. Heritage – Yes. There may be scope for • Cultural heritage features within the area of search • Contains the grade II listed Colber Bridge, some development to the east side of include the grade II listed Colber Bridge. the significance of which is unlikely to be the river in the north of the search area, affected, and within the setting of the but the impact on heritage assets would There is no settlement within this area of search. grade II listed Bonslea House. need to be explored at Stage 2. • The HER does not record any archaeological assets within the search area but it is immediately adjacent to the site of a medieval deserted settlement and remains may extended into the search area.

• The River Stour passes through the search area and highlights a potential for alluvial deposits and geoarchaeology/archaeology typically associated with such deposits. The north-western part of the search area comprises post-medieval piecemeal enclosure. This is may contain hedgerows that qualify as historically important.

I: Land at Upper Stour Impacts on biodiversity, • Undulating landform ranging from 50m to 85m • No direct impact on any designated Landscape – Yes, take whole area Yewstock Valley and the landscape, water AOD. heritage assets, but within the setting of through to Stage 2. Although, likely to Farm North Dorset quality and a heritage the Hinton St Mary Conservation Area. be sensitive because it contributes to • Land cover is a pattern of irregular arable fields Limestone asset. sense of separation between and woodland areas. • Within this conservation area are a grade Ridges Sturminster Newton and Hinton St Mary. A small part of this area II* listed manor house, tithe barn and • The woodland at Twinwood Coppice is ancient and is also at risk of flooding. stable block, as well as the scheduled deciduous woodland priority habitat that is also remains of a Roman villa. locally designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. • The northern portion of this area provides x an important buffer between Hinton St • The area is adjacent to the Hinton St Mary Heritage – Yes. Part of the area is Mary and Sturminster Newton, the Conservation Area and provides a rural setting to unlikely to be suitable due to the impact boundaries of which could be blurred by the historic settlement core. on a number of designated heritage development between to the two, affecting assets, but there is potential to the • Settlement is limited to Yewstock House and the significance of the Hinton St Mary south-eastern part of the search area. Keepers Cottage on the Bath Road. Conservation Area. Impact on heritage assets would need to • The HER does not record any be explored at Stage 2. archaeological assets within the search area.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset Area 43 October 2019 Conclusions

The tables below provide information on areas of search taken through to Stage 2 to be assessed in more detail. Please refer to the previous table for more detailed reasoning behind these decisions. Some of the areas of search have been split geographically due to differences in sensitivity within them and therefore may appear in both tables. Further information on specific locations included/excluded is also provided in the tables.

Areas of search scoped out of Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

Scoped out on landscape/heritage grounds

C: Land between the River Stour The whole area is excluded on landscape and heritage and the A357 grounds.

D: Land to the south of Newton The whole area is excluded on landscape grounds, and partially on heritage grounds.

G: Land to the south of The whole area is excluded on landscape and heritage Sturminster Newton Recreation grounds. Ground

Scoped out on other grounds

H: Land to the west of the River The majority of the area of search is within flood zones 2 and Stour 3.

Areas of search to take forward to Stage 2

Area of Search Code & Name Notes

A: Land between B3092 and Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Manston Road

B: Land to the east of Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Sturminster

E: Land between Glue Hill and Take forward whole area to Stage 2. the A357

F: Land surrounding North Take forward whole area to Stage 2. Dorset Business Park

I: Land at Yewstock Farm Take forward whole area to Stage 2.

Strategic Landscape and Heritage Study for the North Dorset 44 October 2019 Area