NETHER LANGWITH QUARRY NETHER LANGWITH,

PROPOSED CONTINUATION OF LIMESTONE EXTRACTION AND MODIFICATION OF THE CONSENTED SCHEME OF WORKING AND RESTORATION

LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

FOR

TARMAC TRADING LIMITED

FINAL

DATE: 03.02.16

David Jarvis Associates Ltd 1 Tennyson Street Swindon Wiltshire SN1 5DT Tel: 01793 612173 Email: [email protected] February 2016

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2374 Nether Langwith Quarry

CONTENTS: 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 4

NAME AND QUALIFICATION ...... 4 SCOPE ...... 4 BACKGROUND ...... 4 2. METHODOLOGY ...... 5

PUBLISHED GUIDANCE ...... 5 3. LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT OF THE EXISTING SITE AND CONTEXT ...... 6

GENERAL ...... 6 PUBLISHED CHARACTER ASSESSMENT ...... 6 LOCAL CHARACTER ASSESSMENT ...... 8 LANDSCAPE FEATURES...... 9 LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS ...... 9 LOCAL LANDSCAPE VALUE ...... 9 LANDSCAPE RECEPTORS ...... 11 VISUAL RECEPTORS ...... 13 ZONES OF THEORETICAL AND SIGNIFICANT VISIBILITY (ZTV AND ZSV) ...... 13 4. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 15

GENERAL ...... 15 DESCRIPTION ...... 15 RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 16 5. ASSESSMENT OF PREDICTED POTENTIAL EFFECTS ...... 18

GENERAL ...... 18 PREDICTED POTENTIAL EFFECTS ON LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISTICS...... 18 PREDICTED POTENTIAL EFFECTS ON LANDSCAPE FEATURES AND ELEMENTS ...... 18 PREDICTED POTENTIAL EFFECTS ON LOCAL LANDSCAPE VALUE ...... 18 PREDICTED POTENTIAL EFFECTS ON VISUAL AMENITY ...... 19 ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING ...... 22 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ...... 22 DURATION AND REVERSIBILITY ...... 22 6. SUMMARY ...... 23 7. CONCLUSION ...... 25

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Figures:

1. Location Plan 2. Landscape Context 3. Landscape Elements 4. Local Landscape Value 5. Predicted Zones of Significant Visibility and Representative Viewpoint Locations 6. Visibility Cross-Section

Appendices:

1. Assessment Methodology and Glossary of Terms 2. Published District Landscape Character Assessments Extract 3. Field Survey Photographic Record 4. Consented Development 5. Proposed Development 6. Consented Details – Condition Nºs 11, 12 and 15 7. Species List: Magnesian Limestone County Landscape Character Area 8. Sketch Section Through Western Face Restoration with Rollover Slope

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1. INTRODUCTION

Name and Qualification

1.1 This report has been prepared by Jim Meadowcroft Dip LA CMLI of David Jarvis Associates Limited (DJA), a town planning and landscape consultancy.

Scope

1.2 This assessment concerns the predicted potential landscape and visual effects of a proposal to continue limestone extraction and modify the consented scheme of extraction and restoration at Nether Langwith Quarry, Nether Langwith, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire.

1.3 The application site is located approximately 0.75km south east of the village of Nether Langwith in the vicinity of National Grid Reference, SK 454226 369610, shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/1.

Background

1.4 David Jarvis Associates Limited was commissioned in September 2015 by Tarmac Trading Limited to carry out a landscape and visual impact of the development scheme.

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2. METHODOLOGY

Published Guidance

2.1 This assessment has been prepared in accordance with the published guidance provided by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment and the Landscape Institute (IEMA/LI)1 and the Countryside Agency2. Guidance emphasises the responsibility of the landscape professional carrying out the assessment to ensure that the approach and methodology adopted is appropriate for the particular development to be assessed. A description of the assessment methodology is provided at Appendix 1.

2.2 Preparation of this assessment included the following key stages:

• desktop research and field survey; • identification of potential effects; • identification of landscape and visual receptors; • description and quantification of changes to the baseline; • identification of mitigation measures; • evaluation of predicted effects; and • landscape and visual assessment of the scheme design in the context of consented development.

1 Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment and the Landscape Institute – ‘Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment’ Third Edition 2013. 2 Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage – ‘Landscape Character Assessment’ 2002 and Topic Paper 6: Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity (2004).

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3. LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT OF THE EXISTING SITE AND CONTEXT

General

3.1 This section describes the prevailing landscape character of the application site and its setting. The systematic assessment of these elements provides the baseline against which potential effects of development can be assessed.

Published Character Assessment

3.2 Landscape character assessment has been carried out at National, Regional, County and District levels by Natural England3, Nottinghamshire County Council and the Bassetlaw, Mansfield and Newark and Sherwood District Councils4. The National Character Area (NCA) profiles and their accompanying character descriptions provide the broad framework for the more in-depth county and district level studies.

3.3 The site falls within:

• NCA 30 - ‘Magnesian Limestone’; • Regional Character Type 6d ‘Limestone Farmlands’; • Regional Character Type 10b ‘Sandstone Forests and Heaths’; • District Character Area (DCA) ‘Magnesian Limestone Ridge’ – Landscape Policy Zone ML14 ‘Nether Langwith’; and • District Character Area ‘Meden Vale and Church ’ - Landscape Policy Zone ML29

3.4 The quarry site southern boundary adjoins the DCA ‘ and Wooded Farmland’- Landscape Policy Zone ML26. In close proximity to the north boundary lies DCA ‘Holbeck and Cuckney’- Landscape Policy Zone ML13. The location of these and other DCA’ is shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/2.

3.5 The DCA assessments provide the most detailed and contextually relevant description in relation to the application site. A copy of the descriptions is provided at Appendix 2. The key characteristics are summarised below:

Magnesian Limestone Ridge- Landscape Policy Zone ML14

3.6 The quarry site falls within the south east corner of this character area. The key characteristics are described as follows:

• ‘Intensive arable farmland with some pasture and horse grazing. • Nether Langwith Quarry in the south-east. • Vernacular and non-vernacular (particularly at Nether Langwith) buildings and properties. • Three main woodland blocks. • The Lake and fishing ponds in the north-east corner.’

3 Natural NE560: NCA 30 Southern Magnesian Limestone- July 2013; Landscape Character Assessment- April 2010. 4 Nottinghamshire County Council and Council: Landscape Character Assessment- Bassetlaw August 2009; Mansfield District Council: Landscape Character Assessment - May 2010; Newark and Sherwood District Council: Landscape Character Assessment- February 2010.

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3.7 The landscape condition is very good with few detracting elements. Also recorded is a moderate sense of place and low visibility, equating to a low level of sensitivity.

3.8 The recommended landscape actions for this character area are based on conservation:

‘Landscape Features

• Conserve hedgerows and reinforce where they have become gappy and are in poor condition, particularly along roadsides. Seek opportunities to restore the historic field pattern/boundaries where these have been lost and introduce more hedgerow trees where appropriate. • Conserve and reinforce the ecological diversity of the designated SINCs. • Conserve permanent pasture and reinforce by seeking opportunities to restore arable land to pasture; • Conserve existing woodland blocks and enhance visual unity of the Policy Zone through further appropriate tree and woodland planting.

Built Features

• Conserve and reinforce the sparsely settled and rural character of the landscape by concentrating new small scale development around Nether Langwith and existing development. • Create woodland to contain and soften new development, preferably in advance of new development. • Contain new development within existing field boundaries. • Conserve the local built vernacular and reinforce in new development.’

Meden Vale and Church Warsop

3.9 The quarry eastern boundary adjoins this character area and the quarry access route passes through it. The key characteristics of this sub area are cited as:

• ‘Medium scale arable farmland. • Intensive pig farming and a small amount of rough grazing. • Lady Margaret Hall, part of the Welbeck Estate. • Stone and red brick built farmhouses and dwellings. • Coniferous and deciduous woodland blocks.’

3.10 The landscape condition is good with a coherent pattern of elements and few detracting features. A moderate sense of place with high visibility results in high landscape sensitivity overall.

3.11 The recommended landscape actions for this character area are based on conservation:

‘Landscape Features

• Conserve woodland blocks and reinforce as necessary. • Seek opportunities to restore arable land to pasture. • Conserve historic field pattern, restoring and reinforcing poor hedgerow boundaries where necessary. • Seek opportunities to create areas of heathland where appropriate.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2374 Nether Langwith Quarry

Built Features

• Conserve the rural character of the landscape by concentrating new development around the existing settlements of Meden Vale and Church Warsop. Create small scale woodland/tree planting to soften new development, preferably in advance of development. • Conserve and respect the local vernacular of stone/red brick construction in any new development. • Contain new development within historic field boundaries.’

Local Character Assessment

3.12 A field survey was carried out by DJA in December 2015 to:

• record change in the landscape since the publication of the district assessment; • provide a baseline against which the effects of proposed development could be assessed; • identify landscape and visual receptors; • identify existing and predicted Zones of Visual Significance (ZVS); and • inform the scheme design and landscape strategy.

3.13 The area selected for local study is shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/2. It extends over an area of approximately 4.8 square kilometres and defines the contextual landscape as well as the maximum extents of predicted potential change in landscape and visual amenity caused by proposed development.

3.14 The study area remains as described in the DCA’s with the exception of part of the westernmost extents of the Meden Vale and Church Warsop character area. Approximately 7ha of conifer plantation either side of the western half of the quarry access road has been recently clear felled by the Welbeck Estate. There are now open views within this area including the access road from footpath NL FP11 passing close to the quarry entrance.

3.15 The quarry site forms part of a small tract of gently sloping agricultural land framed by woodland. To the north lies the wooded scarp of Boon Hills Wood, which rises approximately 20m above adjoining farmland. To the south of the agricultural land runs a steep wooded embankment, the route of a former mineral railway, which runs broadly parallel to and approximately 0.5km south of, the scarp. The former rail route passes between blocks of woodland including Cuckney Hay Wood to the east and Warsop Wood and Minster Wood to the south.

3.16 Other than Nether Langwith, settlement within the study area is restricted to a scatter of isolated farms and dwellings alongside the A632 Langwith Road. The combination of landform and woodland provides a high degree of enclosure and restricts visibility in the vicinity of the quarry site.

3.17 The former workings of Warsop Colliery, now restored with establishing woodland planting and farmland, forms a major component of the local landscape to the south of the application site.

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3.18 The area benefits from a comprehensive public rights of way network. Footpath NLFP8 passes through the site and Footpath NLFP 11 passes close to the eastern boundary and crosses the quarry access road.

3.19 A description of local landscape features, site based landscape elements and landscape value is described below. Tranquillity in the locality at the time of survey was affected by occasional vehicular traffic using the A632, otherwise only birdsong was noted.

Landscape Features

3.20 Local landscape features likely to draw the eye of a casual observer in the wider locality include mature blocks of woodland on high ground forming part of Cuckney Hay Wood, as well as the wooded scarp of Boon Hills Wood. Neither of these attractive features would be directly affected by consented or proposed development.

Landscape Elements

3.21 Local landscape elements directly affected by consented and proposed development relate to the application site, which is partly quarried and benefits from planning consent to quarry stone from the remaining unworked areas. The site contains a mix of limestone quarry and associated hardstandings, access road, soil storage, arable fields, three field hedgerows, scrubby vegetation and woodland planting, shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/3. The majority of the fields and two of the remaining field hedges are to be removed under the current consent. Table 1 below provides a schedule of landscape elements.

Table 1: Existing Landscape Elements

Element Area (ha) Length (m) Quarry 6.82 - Hardstandings 1.13 - Access road 0.48 - Soil and overburden storage 6.14 - Agricultural field 10.37 - Hedgerow - 970 Scrub/woodland 1.29 - Total 26.23 970

Local Landscape Value

3.22 Landscape value relates to the value or importance society attaches to a landscape or view, which expresses national or local consensus and because of its quality, special qualities, cultural associations or ecological status. IEMA/LI guidance identifies a number of reasons why a landscape may be valued:

• landscape condition: a measure of the physical state of the landscape. It may include the extent to which typical character is represented in individual areas, the intactness of the landscape and the condition of individual elements; • scenic quality: the term used to describe landscapes that appeal primarily to the visual senses; • rarity: the presence of rare features or elements in the landscape, or the presence of a rare landscape character type;

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• representativeness: whether the landscape contains a particular character and/or features or elements which are considered particularly important examples; • conservation interests: the presence of features of particular wildlife, earth science or archaeological, historical and cultural interest can add to the value of a landscape as well as having value in their own right; • recreation value: evidence that the landscape is valued for recreational activity where experience of the landscape is important; • perceptual aspects: a landscape may be valued for its perceptual qualities, notably wildness and/or tranquillity. • associations: some landscapes are associated with particular people, such as artists or writers, or events in history that contribute to perceptions of the natural beauty of the area.

3.23 Assessment of landscape value has been based on consideration of:

• Landscape designation i.e. Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB); • Nature conservation designation i.e. Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI); • Published literature relating to local cultural heritage, recreation and tourism; • Published landscape assessment; • Landscape and ecological field survey; • The inter-relationship of the above.

3.24 Local landscape value within the study area and beyond is shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/3 and described below.

Landscape Condition

3.25 The condition of the landscape within the study area is generally very good, associated with a well-defined, consistent pattern of farmland, hedgerows and blocks of woodland. Poor quality landscape is present, associated with the existing quarry and areas of recently cleared woodland.

Scenic Quality

3.26 The study area forms part of a wooded farmland landscape with good scenic quality overall. Views are generally enclosed by a combination of landform, settlement and woodland.

Rarity

3.27 Rarity value within the study area is represented by the presence of ancient and semi- natural woodland within Warsop Wood/Lord Stubbins Wood to the south of the site.

Representativeness

3.28 The landscape of the study area remains broadly representative of the DCA descriptions.

Conservation Interests

3.29 The consented and proposed quarry site does not contain any statutory or non-statutory conservation related interest. The wider study area contains cultural heritage and nature conservation value recognised by designation. Warsop Wood/Lord Stubbins Wood SSSI and

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Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) lies approximately 50m from the site south-eastern boundary. Other SINC are present as are Local Wildlife Sites (LWS) at Boon Hills Wood, Cuckney Hay Wood and Lady’s Grove.

3.30 Nether Langwith conservation area is located approximately 0.5km northwest of the site. Within the designated area there is a cluster of listed buildings. There is no intervisibility between the site and the conservation area or any other listed building, consequently this aspect has been excluded from further assessment.

Recreation Value

3.31 Leisure and tourism value within the study area is associated with the public rights of way network and bed and breakfast accommodation at Boon Hills Farm.

Perceptual Aspects

3.32 During the survey the overall perception of the study area was that of an attractive, well managed rural landscape with interesting topography and moderate levels of tranquillity.

3.33 There are no known significant artistic, literary or historical events that contribute to perceptions of the site or locality. Warsop Colliery (1889-1989), once a major local employer remains a core part of local heritage. The restored former workings are extensive and marked by distinctive topography, large areas of woodland planting and restored farmland approximately 0.25km south of the site.

Landscape Receptors

General

3.34 The degree by which the landscape is assessed to be sensitive is reflected in its ability to accommodate changes in character and value caused by proposed development.

3.35 Landscape receptors represent any individual or grouped components of landscape character likely to be affected by proposed development. The effects could be direct, such as the loss of fields and hedging on a development site or indirect, for example a change in the scenic amenity of a footpath nearby.

3.36 Sensitive receptors are therefore identified and described with respect to both landscape characteristics and landscape value.

3.37 The distinction is drawn as it differentiates between the many different aspects of landscape character and how they are affected. As an example, one may consider a tract of landscape designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In terms of landscape value it is highly valued and in those terms would normally be regarded as highly sensitive to built development. However, that same tract of landscape, could in terms of its landscape characteristics, comprise a mix of hills, valleys and dense woodland. This would give that landscape has an ability to visually contain and absorb a development. Accordingly, in terms of landscape characteristics, it may be regarded as of low sensitivity. For that reason it is necessary for the purposes of assessment to consider the effects of development on landscape character as well as landscape value.

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Landscape Characteristics - Receptor Sensitivity

3.38 The enclosed nature of the landscape within the study area renders it of low sensitivity to change. Quarry development is already present and consented within the application site. In this context the sensitivity of the local landscape in relation to proposed development is low to negligible.

Landscape Value - Receptor Sensitivity

3.39 For the purposes of assessing receptor sensitivity a judgement needs to be made on the relative value or importance to society of its various aspects or components. This is a complex task as the landscape is valuable to people in different ways hence only broad judgements can be made.

3.40 The amenity of users of the public rights of way network within and in close proximity to the site is already affected by views of the existing quarry development. In this context the sensitivity of the affected receptors is low. No other receptors of landscape value would be affected.

Landscape Capacity

3.41 Landscape capacity refers to the degree to which a particular landscape character type or area is able to accommodate change without significant adverse effects on its character, or overall change of landscape character type. Capacity studies combine specific assessments of landscape character and landscape value sensitivity in order to provide an indication of landscape capacity as currently described in published guidance5. For this purpose professional judgement is employed as the process involves a complex analysis of subjective and objective considerations which cannot be reduced to a matrix checklist or mathematical scoring approach.

3.42 Capacity levels are also affected by the ability of a development to incorporate mitigation. This may take many forms including for example; a stronger and more coherent landscape structure, creation and management of additional wildlife habitat and additional amenity provision. Proposed development is deemed capable of accommodating mitigation in the form of screening measures as well as enhanced landscape and ecological value comparable to or exceeding that currently consented.

3.43 Taking into account the presence of existing and consented development, the overall sensitivity of the receiving landscape and the values attached to it, as well as considerations of visual sensitivity (see below) the landscape of the study area is assessed as having a high capacity to accommodate proposed development.

5 Countryside Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage – ‘Landscape Character Assessment’ 2002 and Topic Paper 6: Techniques and Criteria for Judging Capacity and Sensitivity (2004).

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Visual Receptors

General

3.44 In order to assess the impact the proposed development may have on visual amenity, it is necessary to understand who will be subject to a change in visual circumstances and the extent to which those persons will be affected. The starting point is thus to establish the sensitivity of the viewing public to visual change.

3.45 LI/IEMA guidelines currently provide examples of broad categories of inherently high, medium and low sensitivity. The guidelines stress that these are only examples and that every project will require its own set of criteria and thresholds. The examples provided relate to High, Medium and Low Sensitivity dependent upon the expectations of the viewer and broadly typified by occupiers of Residential Properties and users of Public Rights of Way (High), people engaged in certain Sporting and Recreational activities (Medium) and those occupied at their place of work (Low).

3.46 The degree by which a visual receptor is judged to be sensitive however also depends on the actual quality of the existing view. Accordingly, when the sensitivity to the change actually being proposed is assessed, matters such as the context and extent of the existing view as well as the proximity of the receptor to the proposed development need to be considered.

3.47 An example could be provided by two identical residential properties. The occupier of property A could have open views across a National Park while B may overlook heavy industrial areas on the urban fringe. Whilst both parties could be regarded as inherently highly sensitive to visual change the actual situation would be that the occupier of property A would be regarded as highly sensitive to change relative to built development in the context of the view, whilst the party at property B as of medium or low sensitivity.

Zones of Theoretical and Significant Visibility (ZTV and ZSV)

3.48 The local landscape is already affected by the existing quarry and the visual significance of the works is clearly evident in the field, as is the predicted visual significance of the consented and proposed scheme within the application site. Visibility is strongly affected by woodland as well as landform. Consequently the use of computer generated ZTV based on landform alone would not be particularly useful in this instance.

3.49 Field based ZSV studies have been carried out to record the significant visibility of the existing quarry during the winter period as well as the predicted extents of visibility of the consented and proposed working schemes. The study also identified receptor categories and representative viewpoints.

3.50 The ZSV study indicates that the existing development is significantly visible over an area of approximately 37.5ha as shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/5.

3.51 The ZSV of consented and proposed quarry development is the same and would be potentially significantly visible over an area of approximately 57.4ha.

3.52 The consented and proposed restoration schemes would be very similar in visual terms and potentially significantly visible over an area of approximately 37.5ha, broadly corresponding with the existing development.

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Visual Receptors

3.53 Within the ZVS the following categories of visual receptor have been identified:

• Occupiers of a residential property; and • Users of public rights of way.

3.54 The location of selected representative receptor viewpoints is shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/5. A record of the photographic field survey is provided at Appendix 3. A summary description of predicted sensitivity is provided in Table 2. The viewpoints represent all four receptor categories. The sensitivity of visual receptors reflects the presence of the existing quarry and consented scheme of working and restoration.

Table 2: Selected Representative Visual Receptors

Reference Receptor and Location Sensitivity

Occupiers of Individual Residential Properties No public access. See Top Farm, elevated position Low, part of the existing Plan N° 2374/LV/6. approximately 160m west of the quarry development in view application site boundary. from first and ground floor.

Users of Public Rights of Way Viewpoints 14 and 19 Footpath NL FP8, slightly elevated Low, existing quarry position located within the application development in view. site at either end of the consented quarry western boundary.

Viewpoints 6a and 6b Footpath NL FP9, elevated position High, existing quarry approximately 140m west of the development not in view. application site boundary and at the point it enters the application site boundary, very close to viewpoint 20. Viewpoint 9 Footpath NL FP11, approximately 20m Low, existing quarry east of the quarry entrance. development in view.

Viewpoint 23 Footpath NL FP7, from its junction with Very low, existing quarry footpath NL FP8 leading broadly south screened for most of the route east to reach the quarry access road. but vehicles using the access road will be visible as well as the quarry entrance from a short length.

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4. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AND MITIGATION MEASURES

General

4.1 Those aspects of development which are relevant to the assessment of landscape and visual effects are described below. A full description of proposed development is provided within the planning application environmental statement and accompanying documentation. Copies of the consented and proposed schemes of working and restoration are provided at Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 respectively for comparative purposes.

Description

Consented Development

4.2 Consented quarry development commenced in 2001 and progressed for approximately 5 years. The consented scheme allows for the extraction of limestone in seven stages together with the temporary storage of overburden and soils, installation of processing plant, offices and a weighbridge as well as the formation of a new access.

4.3 Stage 1 of the quarry has been worked. Stages 2 and 3 had been largely worked before operations ceased temporarily in 2006 and the processing plant and associated facilities were removed. Stripped soils and overburden remain in grassed mounds within the site in accordance with details supplied in accordance with the requirements of Condition 49 of the existing consent.6 The un-restored quarry void remains as does the quarry access and areas of hardstanding.

4.4 Proposed development concerns the re-installation of the quarry processing plant and associated facilities and the re-commencement of mineral extraction. The remaining consented reserve would be worked over a period of 17 years with restoration works taking a further 2 years. Proposed production rates would remain the same as consented as would the overall method of working. Under the proposed scheme the storage of soil and overburden materials would be changed to reflect the existing arrangement.

4.5 The proposed restoration final landform differs slightly from the consented version. This is due to a greater understanding of the local groundwater regime following many years of monitoring. Planning Condition 32 requires that the base of the quarry is left one metre above groundwater contours and the proposed landform reflects this requirement. The change is essentially one of slope orientation. Within the consented arrangement the land falls approximately west to east and from approximately 71.0m AOD to 66.0m AOD. The proposed scheme provides for a fall orientated broadly south west to north east from 72.0m AOD to approximately 66.0m AOD. In all other respects proposed restoration mirrors the consented version. This in essence comprises four fields on the quarry floor bordered by quarry faces and/or a combination of part quarry face and steeply sloping grassland. Woodland would be planted above the southern and eastern quarry faces. The restored fields would be separated by new hedgerows with hedgerow trees and a small central group of trees. Three of the fields would be reinstated to agricultural production whilst the southernmost one would be used to develop species rich Magnesian limestone grassland which would also develop on the consented steep slopes.

6 Planning permission Ref 1/64/96/2

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4.6 The proposed scheme provides for the retention of the quarry access road following completion of mineral extraction. This to provide better access for the ongoing management of Cuckney Hay Wood.

4.7 The significant predicted potential landscape and visual effects arising from proposed and consented development are:

• Effects on local amenity resulting from mineral extraction being extended beyond the consented completion date by approximately 18 years;

• Effects of working and restoration on the remaining landscape elements;

• Retention of the quarry access road; and

• Suitability of the consented and proposed restoration in the context of current published character assessment for Policy Zones ML14 and SH29;

4.8 A number of recommended mitigation measures have been identified by DJA. These are described below.

Recommended Mitigation Measures

General

4.9 The landscape strategy and recommendations for the development have been informed by published landscape guidelines and local landscape assessment carried out by DJA.

4.10 Landscape mitigation measures have been devised in addition to those already forming part of consented and proposed development. These have been informed by published landscape guidelines and local landscape assessment carried out by DJA. They are summarised in Table 3 below.

Table 3: Landscape Strategy

Secondary Mitigation Purpose 1. Consented and proposed mineral extraction works:

Improve visual amenity in the long term, Where practicable create extend mineral better integrate the quarry with its extraction approximately 5.0m at the surroundings and create additional wildlife uppermost level to create a rollover habitat. restoration slope above the final quarry face. Allow the resulting slope to develop limestone grassland and scrub. (See Appendix 8)

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Secondary Mitigation Purpose

Replace the consented 5.0m high overburden Reduce the impact of this mitigating feature screen mound along the south boundary and on users of the footpath. the southern half of the west boundary with a 2.5m high perimeter grassed soil screen bund during Stage 4 and coincident with the route of footpath NL FP8 passing through the site. This will retain a suitable level of visual screening to views from Top Farm whilst reducing the effects of bunding on footpath users. The external batter of the bund should be no greater than 1:3 where practicable and set a minimum distance of 1.0m from the existing fence. 2. Provide a greater percentage of Magnesium Wildlife habitat - better reflect habitat Limestone grassland that currently consented. priorities for the area. 3. Retain an existing hedgerow within the Landscape and wildlife benefit- wildlife application site adjoining footpath NL FP8. corridor and characteristic landscape element retained.

4.11 These measures would contribute to DCA actions for the locality through retention of an existing hedgerow, provision of a greater extent of grassland/pasture and retention of a high proportion of the consented woodland planting.

4.12 The consented schemes of hedgerow, tree and shrub planting; creation of Magnesian Limestone Grassland and Woodland as well as the Soils and Flora Conservation Scheme (Conditions 11, 12 and 15 respectively) would be used in the proposed scheme. A copy of these is provided at Appendix 6.

4.13 The consented plant species include species commonly found within the Magnesian Limestone County Character Area (Appendix 7).

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5. ASSESSMENT OF PREDICTED POTENTIAL EFFECTS

General

5.1 Predicted landscape impacts are based on the development criteria and proposed restoration identified in Section 4, excluding the landscape mitigation measures described above. Effects are assessed in relation to the landscape characteristics and value of the study area described in Section 3.

Predicted Potential Effects on Landscape Characteristics

5.2 The proposed restoration scheme landform would be slightly more sympathetic to local landscape characteristics than the consented version. In the context of the consented restoration scheme the effect would be of slight significance and slightly beneficial.

Predicted Potential Effects on Landscape Features and Elements

5.3 There would be no significant effects on local landscape features caused by consented or proposed development. Proposed development would not affect the landscape elements identified in Section 3 to any greater or lesser extent than the consented arrangement with the possible exception of the retained access road. Were this route to be replaced by a forest track of comparable width the effect would not be significant. The effect of consented and proposed working on these elements is summarised below in Table 4.

Table 4: Existing, Consented and Proposed Landscape Elements

Element Existing Consented and proposed Change Area (ha) Length (m) Area (ha) Length (m) Quarry 6.82 - 0.84 - -5.98 Hardstandings 1.13 - - - -1.13 Access road 0.48 - 0.48 - 0.00 Soil and overburden 6.14 - - - -10.37 storage Agricultural field 10.37 - 16.24 - +5.87 Hedgerow - 970 - 1526 +556 Limestone grassland - - 5.93 - +5.93 Scrub and woodland 1.29 - 2.48 - +1.19 Total 26.23 970 26.23 1526

5.4 The consented and proposed schemes would result an increase in the extent of farmland, scrub and woodland, the introduction of limestone grassland and additional hedging.

Predicted Potential Effects on Local Landscape Value

Nature Conservation

The consented restoration elements would be incorporated into the proposed scheme and as a result there would be no significant change in the level of nature conservation related value. The restoration scheme will provide a more diverse range of wildlife habitat over a greater area than currently exists.

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Cultural Heritage

5.5 There are no significant views between the application site and features of cultural heritage interest described in Section 3. The site will eventually add to the industrial heritage of the locality.

Tranquillity

5.6 Tranquillity within the study area is moderate and will be adversely affected by extending the duration of quarry operations. Quarry related noise and visual intrusion would be re- introduced to the locality with noise likely to be experienced beyond the predicted ZSV. The quarry operations in this respect have already been deemed acceptable by the Mineral Planning Authority and are governed by planning condition, a situation which is likely to be brought forward in any new permission. The re-introduction of quarry operations would likely be of slight to moderate magnitude at a local level representing an effect of medium significance on tranquillity in the medium term.

Recreation and Tourism Value

5.7 The amenity of users of public rights of way in the locality would be adversely affected by the installation of consented and proposed 5.0m high screen bunds during the operational period as well as noise generated by the works. That said these views are already affected by the presence of the quarry, soil storage mounds and associated hardstandings. The bunds will screen the later stages of quarry operations occurring in closer proximity. The significance of effect will depend on the adoption of the recommended mitigation measures, particularly a reduction in height of screening to 2.5m and shallower external bund gradients, which would be less oppressive in such close proximity.

5.8 In the absence of these measures the effect of the consented and proposed mitigation bunds would likely be of moderate to slight significance and slightly adverse in nature.

5.9 Boon Hills Farm B&B is visually screened from consented and proposed operations by intervening landform and woodland.

Predicted Potential Effects on Visual Amenity

General

5.10 Predicted visual impacts are described below in relation to the sensitive receptors described in Section 3 and the development parameters identified in Section 4. Potential effects on visual amenity relate to the extended duration of quarry operations and the restored site at completion as well as in the longer term.

Effects on Visual Amenity

Occupiers of a residential property at Top Farm

5.11 Visibility cross sections have been prepared to analyse the effects of existing, consented and proposed quarry operations on this receptor, shown on Plan N° 2374/LV/6. Views of much of the northern half of the existing quarry, including most of the plant site, from the ground and first floors of the property are screened by a combination of mature trees, field hedging

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and landform. The upper levels of part of the southern half of the quarry is visible above intervening field hedging, with the result that views of part of the eastern quarry face and southernmost area of the quarry entrance and hardstandings are likely to be available at a distance of approximately 0.9km.

5.12 The installation of the consented 5.0m high screen bund at the western boundary will screen all but the uppermost levels of the existing eastern quarry face and part of the operational plant from ground and first floor views. This would provide a level of screening similar to the existing situation, an effect of slight to negligible significance, as most the bund itself would be screened by hedging and broadly neutral. This mitigation need not be applied to the entire western boundary or the southern boundary to achieve an equivalent level of screening to this property. In these locations it is recommended that the screen bund is reduced to a height of 2.5m to reduce the enclosing effect of a 5.0m high bund at close quarters on users of the adjoining footpath as described at 4.10.

5.13 Immediately following restoration views from Top Farm over the northern half of the quarry will remain screened by landform woodland and hedging. Views over the easternmost area of the southern half of the restored quarry floor farmland and quarry faces will be available. In the long term views of these elements will be partly replaced by the consented hedge and woodland planting. Compared to the existing condition the effect would be slight significance and slightly beneficial in nature, improving slightly over time.

Users of Public Rights of Way

5.14 Users of footpath NL FP8 experience the site directly. The route passes along part of the southern boundary, along most of the western boundary and turns north east to run along the northern side of a hedgerow, separating the consented soil storage area from Stages 5 and 6 (viewpoints 12-21 apply). At present the consented 5.0m screen mound is not in place and there are open views of the upper levels of the quarry eastern faces as well as the soil stores. The length of footpath most likely to be affected by consented and proposed works is the section passing the southern and western boundary, at a time when the consented screen bund is installed. The bund will be 5.0m high and will screen all views of the remaining quarry operations which will occur at close quarters. The effect would be of moderate significance and slightly beneficial in nature. The effect could be improved further if the recommended mitigation measure described above was adopted.

5.15 Following completion of the restoration works extensive open views will occur over the majority of the site. The views will be more open and interesting than the current scene. The change in view would be of moderate to high significance at such close quarters and slightly beneficial.

5.16 In the event the recommended restoration mitigation measures were employed the level and nature of effect would be similar to that recorded above and slight to moderately beneficial-with the exception of a length of route passing the current soil storage area. In this location the existing hedge would be retained, as a result views over the quarry site would be all but screened, leaving an enclosed small field in view.

5.17 For users of footpath NL FP9 approach the site from the west, views are generally enclosed by dense field hedging for virtually all but a short section of the route passing Top Farm for a

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2374 Nether Langwith Quarry

distance of approximately 80 metres. The view is recorded at Appendix 3 (viewpoints 6a and 6b). The site is heavily screened by intervening landform, woodland and hedging. This situation remains until the path connects to footpath NL FP 8 (viewpoint 20), the effects of which are recorded above. It is unlikely that there will be a significant change in the view experienced by this user.

5.18 Footpath NL FP11 passes close to the eastern boundary of the site, crossing the quarry access road approximately 20m east of the quarry entrance. Views from this route towards the site are screened by a retained margin of woodland and landform (viewpoints 8, 10 and 11) with the exception of a short (approximately 50m) length located either side of the quarry access road (viewpoint 9 and Plan N° 2374/LV/6). This section allows narrow, channelled views over part of the site, in particular part of the existing upper quarry faces and the remainder of the consented and unworked land to the west over a foreground of plant site hardstandings and a bund.

5.19 Under the consented and proposed schemes buildings and structures associated with the quarry plant site would be re-introduced. HGV’s would once again use the access route and views of the upper working faces would increase slightly as works progress at a higher elevation within Phases 4-6. The overall effect would be of moderate significance and moderately adverse in nature during the operational period compared to the existing condition. The effect is greater than at the time when the quarry scheme was originally in operation due to the extent of woodland clearance that has occurred recently.

5.20 Following restoration there would be a narrow view available over part of the western half of the quarry restoration field(s), grassland slopes and quarry faces. Compared to the existing situation the effect would be of slight significance and slightly beneficial. Consented field hedgerow planting would screen the lower quarry face slopes in the long term, assuming they are managed to an average height of approximately 3.0m. Implementation of the recommended mitigation measures would further reduce the extent of quarry face in view.

5.21 Users of footpath NL FP 7 leading from its junction with footpath NL FP8 would experience views of quarry related traffic using the access road within the cleared area and assuming no new tree planting was carried out. The quarry would remain screened by peripheral woodland, with the exception of the quarry access which can be seen from the route as it approaches the access road at approximately 0.3km distance. The effect would be of slight to moderate significance and moderately adverse, almost entirely due to the re-introduction of quarry related HGV movements.

5.22 The existing quarry access road would be retained under the proposed scheme. The road itself is low key and not readily apparent in any but the most immediate views. Its retention beyond the restoration completion would not represent a significant level of effect, assuming there would be no change in the level or type of vehicular use.

5.23 A summary of predicted effects on visual amenity is provided below in Table 5.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2374 Nether Langwith Quarry

Table 5: Summary of predicted effects on visual amenity during operations and 10 years following restoration

Receptor Reference and Location Sensitivity Predicted Effects Magnitude Significance Nature RESIDENTIAL AREAS AND OCCUPIERS OF INDIVIDUAL RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES Top Farm Viewpoint 6b During operations Low Very low Slight- Neutral and Plan N° negligible 2374/LV/6 Following restoration Low Very low Slight Slightly beneficial USERS OF PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY Footpath NL FP8 Viewpoints 14 During operations Low High Moderate Slightly and 19 beneficial Following restoration Low High Moderate to Slightly high beneficial Footpath NL FP9 Viewpoints 6a During operations High Negligible Not significant - and 6b Following Restoration High Negligible Not significant - Footpath NL FP11 Viewpoint 9 and During operations Low Medium Moderate Moderately Plan N° adverse 2374/LV/6 Following restoration Low Medium Slight Slightly beneficial Footpath NL FP7 Viewpoint 23 During operations Low Medium Slight to Moderately moderate adverse Following restoration Low Medium Not significant Slightly beneficial

Artificial Lighting

5.24 There are no significant levels of artificial lighting proposed beyond that already consented.

Cumulative Effects

5.25 There are no known developments of this kind within the study area consequently there would be no cumulative effects.

Duration and Reversibility

5.26 The proposed development will be permanent and irreversible, restoring the application site to a new landform. The beneficial long term effects of this on local landscape character and visual amenity are recorded in this assessment.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2374 Nether Langwith Quarry

6. SUMMARY

6.1 This assessment concerns predicted potential landscape and visual impacts of a proposal to continue limestone extraction and modify the consented scheme of extraction and restoration at Nether Langwith Quarry.

The Landscape Context

6.2 The study area falls within four District landscape character areas. The application site falls within two; the Magnesian Limestone Ridge character area (Landscape Policy Zone ML14- Nether Langwith) and the Meden Vale and Church Warsop character area (Landscape Policy Zone ML29).

6.3 Landscape character within the study area remains essentially as described in the District Assessments with the exception of the westernmost extents of the Meden Vale and Church Warsop character area where approximately 8ha of plantation woodland within Cuckney Hay Wood has been clear felled.

6.4 The quarry site forms part of a small tract of gently sloping agricultural land framed by woodland. The combination of landform and woodland provides a high degree of visual enclosure and restricts visibility of the quarry site.

6.5 Local landscape features include mature blocks of woodland on high ground such as Cuckney Hay Wood and the wooded scarp of Boon Hills Wood.

6.6 The site contains a mix of quarry, hardstandings, an access road, areas of soil and overburden storage, unworked agricultural fields, woodland and hedging.

6.7 Landscape value in the locality is represented by good overall scenic quality as well as cultural heritage and nature conservation value recognised by designation. Leisure and tourism value is associated with the public rights of way network and bed and breakfast accommodation at Boon Hills Farm.

6.8 The condition of the landscape within Policy Zones ML14 and ML29 is generally very good to good respectively with few detracting elements. Landscape in poor condition is associated with the existing quarry and areas of recently cleared woodland.

6.9 The sensitivity of the local landscape to the proposed changes to the consented quarry scheme is low to negligible; whilst its capacity to accommodate consented and proposed development is high.

Proposed Development and Mitigation Measures

6.10 Proposed development would effectively progress the consented scheme of working allowing for minor variations to soil storage, the restoration landform and retention of the as built quarry access road. The remaining consented reserve would be worked over a period of 17 years.

6.11 A number of potential landscape related mitigation measures have been identified by DJA during the course of this assessment.

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Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2374 Nether Langwith Quarry

Effects on Landscape Character

6.12 The net effect on landscape character would be of slight significance and beneficial.

Effects on Visual Amenity

6.13 The existing quarry development is significantly visible over an area of approximately 37.5ha. The consented and proposed quarry developments would be significantly visible over an area of approximately 57.4ha. Following restoration this would reduce to approximately 37.5ha.

6.14 Occupiers of a single residential property and users of footpaths in close proximity or within to the application site would be affected by consented and proposed development. During operations the effects on these receptors would typically fall in the range slight to moderate and range from moderately adverse to slightly beneficial in nature compared to the existing situation.

6.15 Following restoration of the site the nature of effects on all receptors would be slightly beneficial.

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7. CONCLUSION

7.1 This assessment of proposed development concludes that the potential impacts on local landscape character and visual amenity during the operational and post operational periods would fall well within acceptable levels.

February 2016 Page 25 of 40 David Jarvis Associates Limited APPENDIX 1

Assessment Methodology and Glossary of Terms

Generally

Preparation of this assessment involved the following key stages:

• desktop research and field survey; • identification of potential effects; • identification of landscape and visual receptors; • description and quantification of changes to the baseline; • identification of mitigation measures; • evaluation of predicted effects; and • landscape and visual assessment of the scheme design in the context of consented development.

Baseline Survey

Baseline surveys were carried out to record and analyse the existing landscape characteristics and the value of the landscape and visual resources in the vicinity of the proposed application site. The research, classification and analysis process included:

• Desk and field based studies to identify the ZSV, sensitive receptor viewpoints and landscape character.

• Research to establish the landscape planning context, nature conservation interest and aspects of the cultural heritage.

• Analysis of landscape characteristics in order to understand how they are made up and experienced as well as ascertaining their relative value.

Identification of potential effects

Identification of potential effects has formed part of the design process.

The broad design parameters of the project were established at the time of commission in terms of the nature of the development. This provided sufficient information to identify the likely:

• scale and nature of changes to landscape characteristics and landscape value;

• changes affecting visual amenity.

Identification of sensitive landscape and visual receptors

Identification of the sensitivity of the landscape resource is based on its ability to accommodate changes in character and value which would be caused by the development.

Landscape character and value are separately identified. This is done in order to distinguish between the ability of a landscape to physically accommodate a development in terms of landform, landcover and landuse, as opposed to its effects on valued aspects of the landscape which are more subjective in nature.

Identification of sensitive visual receptors is based on the proximity, context, expectations and occupation or activity of the receptor. Consideration is also given to the importance of the view.

Degrees of sensitivity are identified as appropriate for all categories of landscape and visual receptors to enable a systematic and consistent evaluation of the levels of predicted effects once assessed against their magnitude.

An assessment has been made of the capacity of the local landscape to accommodate change of the type proposed without significant effects on its character, or overall change of landscape character type.

Description and quantification of the changes to the baseline

Predicted changes to the baseline take into account existing trends for change as well as those anticipated as a result of the development.

Change in landscape characteristics, including elements of landform, landcover and landuse as well as significant features are described and broadly quantified. The effect of these changes on aspects of landscape value are also described in terms of scenic quality, designated landscape, heritage interests, tranquillity, sense of place, rarity or uniqueness and nature conservation interests.

Predicted changes to the visual baseline are described for each sensitive receptor type and location. Consideration is given to change during construction, at completion and in the years following completion restoration.

Evaluation of Predicted Effects

Predicted landscape and visual effects are assessed in terms of their scale, duration, magnitude, level and nature on identified sensitive receptors.

Methods used for evaluation follow published guidance and include a combination of objective and subjective judgements.

To aid consistency and allow easier inspection and review of results checklists, tables and matrices have been employed. The use of a matrix is only to guide the determination of significance thresholds, whereby the predicted magnitude of an effect is assessed against the sensitivity of a given receptor. This provides a broad indication of the level or significance of an effect (see table below).

The nature of an effect, whether adverse or beneficial, is a subjective consideration based on professional judgement and identified separately.

Identification of Mitigating Measures

Mitigation measures have been considered in relation to:

• primary measures which form part of the iterative design process; and • secondary measures designed to address any residual adverse effects of the development.

Table: Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

SIGNIFICANCE THRESHOLD VH VS VS SB SB SM SM M NS H VS SB SB SM SM M M NS HM SB SB SM SM M M MS NS

M SB SM SM M M MS MS NS ML SM SM M M MS MS S NS L SM M M MS MS S S NS MAGNITUDE VL M M MS MS S S SI NS N NS NS NS NS NS NS NS NS VH H HM M ML L VL N SENSITIVITY

Significance Thresholds

KEY: VS – Very Substantial SB – Substantial SM – Substantial-Moderate M – Moderate MS – Moderate-Slight S – Slight SI – Slight-Imperceptible I – Imperceptible NS – Not Significant

Magnitude/Sensitivity

KEY: VH- Very High H – High HM – High-Medium M- Medium ML- Medium-Low L - Low VL – Very Low N- Negligible

Note: The above matrix is only used as a guide and never used to replace professional judgement, particularly in instances when assessing the nature of an effect (i.e. adverse, neutral or beneficial). Its purpose is solely to ensure consistency of approach and results. Glossary of Terms (Derived from current IEMA/LI Guidelines with additional glossary)

Access land Land where the public have access either by legal right or by informal agreement.

Baseline studies Work done to determine and describe the environmental conditions against which any future changes can be measured or predicted and assessed.

Characterisation The process of identifying areas of similar landscape character, classifying and mapping them and describing their character.

Characteristics Elements, or combinations of elements, which make a contribution to distinctive landscape character.

Compensation Measures devised to offset or compensate for residual adverse effects which cannot be prevented/avoided or further reduced.

Competent authority The authority which determines the application for consent, permission, licence or other authorisation to proceed with a proposal. It is the authority that must consider the environmental information before granting any kind of authorisation.

Consultation bodies Any body specified in the relevant EIA Regulations which the competent authority must consult in respect of an EIA, and which also has a duty to provide a scoping opinion and information.

Designated landscape Areas of landscape identified as being of importance at international, national or local levels, either defined by statute or identified in development plans or other documents.

Development Any proposal that results in a change to the landscape and/or visual environment.

Direct effect An effect that is directly attributable to the proposed development.

‘Do nothing’ situation Continued change or evolution in the landscape in the absence of the proposed development.

Ecosystem services The benefits provided by ecosystems that contribute to making human life both possible and worth living. The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (www.unep.org/maweb/en/index.aspx) grouped ecosystem services into four broad categories:

1. supporting services, such as nutrient cycling, oxygen production and soil formation – these underpin the provision of the other ‘service’ categories; 2. provisioning services, such as food, fibre, fuel and water; 3. regulating services, such as climate regulation, water purification and flood protection; 4. cultural services, such as education, recreation and aesthetic value.

Elements Individual parts which make up the landscape, such as, for example, trees, hedges and buildings.

Enhancement Proposals that seek to improve the landscape resource and the visual amenity of the proposed development site and its wider setting, over and above its baseline condition.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) The process of gathering environmental information; describing a development; identifying and describing the likely significant environmental effects of the project; defining ways of preventing/avoiding, reducing, or offsetting or compensating for any adverse effects; consulting the general public and specific bodies with responsibilities for the environment; and presenting the results to the competent authority to inform the decision on whether the project should proceed. Environmental Statement A statement that includes the information that is reasonably required to assess the environmental effects of the development and which the applicant can, having regard in particular to current knowledge and methods of assessment, reasonably be required to compile, but that includes at least the information referred to in the EIA Regulations.

Feature Particularly prominent or eye-catching elements in the landscape, such as tree clumps, church towers or wooded skylines OR a particular aspect of the project proposals.

Geographical Information System (GIS) A system that captures, stores, analyses, manages and presents data linked to location. It links spatial information to a digital database.

Green Infrastructure (GI) Networks of green spaces and watercourses and water bodies that connect rural areas, villages, towns and cities.

Heritage The historic environment and especially valued assets and qualities such as historic buildings and cultural traditions.

Historic Landscape Characterisation (HLC and Historic Land-use Assessment (HLA) Historic characterisation is the identification and interpretation of the historic dimension of the present-day landscape or townscape within a given area. HLC is the term used in England and Wales, HLA is the term used in Scotland.

Indirect effects Effects that result indirectly from the proposed project as a consequence of the direct effects, often occurring away from the site, or as a result of a sequence of interrelationships or a complex pathway. They may be separated by distance or in time from the source of the effects.

Iterative design process The process by which project design is amended and improved by successive stages of refinement which respond to growing understanding of environmental issues.

Key characteristics Those combinations of elements which are particularly important to the current character of the landscape and help to give an area its particularly distinctive sense of place.

Land cover The surface cover of the land, usually expressed in terms of vegetation cover or lack of it. Related to but not the same as land use.

Land use What land is used for, based on broad categories of functional land cover, such as urban and industrial use and the different types of agriculture and forestry.

Landform The shape and form of the land surface which has resulted from combinations of geology, geomorphology, slope, elevation and physical processes.

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) A tool used to identify and assess the likely significance of the effects of change resulting from development both on the landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity.

Landscape capacity The degree to which a particular landscape character type or area is able to accommodate change without unacceptable adverse effects on its character. Capacity is likely to vary according to the type and nature of change being proposed.

Landscape character A distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that makes one landscape different from another, rather than better or worse.

Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) These are single unique areas which are the discrete geographical areas of a particular landscape type.

Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) The process of identifying and describing variation of the character of the landscape, and using this information to assist in managing change in the landscape. It seeks to identify and explain the unique combination of elements and features that make landscapes distinctive. The process results in the production of a Landscape Character Assessment.

Landscape Character Types (LCTs) These are distinct types of landscape that are relatively homogeneous in character. They are generic in nature in that they may occur in different areas in different parts of the country, but wherever they occur they share broadly similar combinations of geology, topography, drainage patterns, vegetation and historical land use and settlement pattern, and perceptual and aesthetic attributes.

Landscape classification A process of sorting the landscape into different types using selected criteria but without attaching relative values to different sorts of landscape.

Landscape effects Effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right.

Landscape features A prominent eye-catching element, e.g. wooded hill top and church spire.

Landscape quality (condition) A measure of the physical state of the landscape. It may include the extent to which typical character is represented in individual areas, the intactness of the landscape and the condition of individual elements.

Landscape receptors Defined aspects of the landscape resource that have the potential to be affected by a proposal.

Landscape strategy The overall vision and objectives for what the landscape should be like in the future, and what is thought to be desirable for a particular landscape type or area as a whole, usually expressed in formally adopted plans and programmes or related documents.

Landscape value The relative value that is attached to different landscapes by society. A landscape may be valued by different stakeholders for a whole variety of reasons.

Magnitude (of effect) A term that combines judgements about the size and scale of the effect, the extent of the area over which it occurs, whether it is reversible or irreversible and whether it is short or long term in duration.

Parameters A limit or boundary which defines the scope of a particular process or activity.

Perception Combines the sensory (that we receive through our senses) with the cognitive (our knowledge and understanding gained from many sources and experiences).

Photomontage A visualisation which superimposes an image of a proposed development upon a photograph or series of photographs.

Receptors See Landscape receptors and Visual receptors.

Scoping The process of identifying the issues to be addressed by an EIA. It is a method of ensuring that an EIA focuses on the important issues and avoids those that are considered to be less significant.

Seascape Landscapes with views of the coast or seas, and coasts and adjacent marine environments with cultural, historical and archaeological links with each other.

Sensitivity A term applied to specific receptors, combining judgements of the susceptibility of the receptor to the specific type of change or development proposed and the value related to that receptor.

Significance A measure of the importance or gravity of the environmental effect, defined by significance criteria specific to the environmental topic.

Stakeholders The whole constituency of individuals and groups who have an interest in a subject or place. Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) The process of considering the environmental effects of certain public plans, programmes or strategies at a strategic level.

Susceptibility The ability of a defined landscape or visual receptor to accommodate the specific proposed development without undue negative consequences.

Time depth Historical layering – the idea of landscape as a ‘palimpsest’, a much written-over manuscript.

Townscape The character and composition of the built environment including the buildings and the relationships between them, the different types of urban open space, including green spaces, and the relationship between buildings and open spaces.

Tranquillity A state of calm and quietude associated with peace, considered to be a significant asset of landscape.

Visual amenity The overall pleasantness of the views people enjoy of their surroundings, which provides an attractive visual setting or backdrop for the enjoyment of activities of the people living, working, recreating, visiting or travelling through an area.

Visual effects Effects on specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people.

Visual receptors Individuals and/or defined groups of people who have the potential to be affected by a proposal.

Visualisation A computer simulation, photomontage or other technique illustrating the predicted appearance of the development.

Zone of Theoretical Visibility A map, usually digitally produced, showing areas of land within which a development is theoretically visible. (ZTV)

Zone of Significant Visibility Area within a ZTV from which a proposed development is likely to draw the eye of a casual observer, based on field observations. (ZSV) APPENDIX 2

Published District Landscape Character Assessments Extract APPENDIX 3

Field Survey Photographic Record APPENDIX 4

Consented Development APPENDIX 5

Proposed Development APPENDIX 6

Consented Details – Condition Nºs 11, 12 and 15 APPENDIX 7

Species List: Magnesian Limestone County Landscape Character Area Species List

Magnesian Limestone County Landscape Character Area

The following list includes native tree and shrub species that are commonly found within the Magnesian Limestone County Landscape Character Area and are suitable for inclusion in planting schemes. These are important for determining the area’s regional character. A range of native species may also be appropriate to particular locations or sites. In these cases professional advice should be sought from Nottinghamshire County Council’s nature conservation officer or the Landscape and Reclamation team.

All plant material should be of local provenance or at least of British origin. The document ‘Using local stock for planting native trees and shrubs’ - Forestry Commission - Practice Note August 1999 by George Herbert, Sam Samuel and Gordon Patterson; provides guidance in this respect. A list of suppliers is provided on the Flora Locale website – www.floralocale.org

TREES Botanical name Woodlands Hedges Hedgerow Wet areas/ trees streamsides Alder Alnus glutinosa □ □ □ ■ (Common) Ash Fraxinus ■ □ ■ ■ excelsior Aspen Populus □ □ tremula Birch (Silver) Betula □ pendula Cherry Prunus avium □ □ □ (Wild) Crab apple Malus sylvestris □ □ □ Elm (English) Ulmus minor □ var. vulgaris Elm (Wych) Ulmus glabra □ □ □ Maple Acer campestre □ ■ □ (Field) Oak (Common) Quercus ■ □ ■ □ robur Willow Salix □ □ □ ■ (Crack) fragilis Willow (White) Salix □ □ □ □ alba SHRUBS Botanical name Woodlands Hedges Hedgerow Wet areas/ trees streamsides Blackthorn Prunus □ □ □ spinosa Buckthorn Rhamnus □ (Purging) cathartica Dogwood Cornus □ □ (Common) sanguinea Guelder Viburnum □ □ □ Rose opulus Hawthorn Crataegus ■ ■ □ □ monogyna Hawthorn Crataegus □ □ □ ( Midland) laevigata Hazel Corylus □ □ avellana Holly Ilex aquifolium □ □ □ Osier Salix viminalis □ □ □ Privet (Wild) Ligustrum □ □ vulgare Rosa (Dog) Rosa canina □ □ Spindle Euonymus □ □ europaeus

■ Dominant species □ Other species present APPENDIX 8

Sketch Section Through Western Face Restoration with Rollover Slope