Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape / Geological Landscape

Part One – The Scheme Plan / Summary of Engagement

Living Levels 43 Image Credit: Nigel Pugh Living Levels 44 Living Levels 45 Part One – The Scheme Plan

Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape / Geological Landscape

The Gwent Levels area lies just beyond the southern Before they were reclaimed and separated from extent of a number of ice-sheets that covered the Severn Estuary by a sea wall during the Roman northern Britain during the period of glacial maxima period, the Levels would have been a changing during the last 500,000 years. The valley of the River patchwork of saltmarsh, reed-swamp and peat bogs. Severn was recut by glacial meltwater each time the The coastal plain comprises three discrete areas: ice-sheets retreated. the Wentlooge Level, which extends from the River Rhymney to the mouth of the River Usk (c.27km2); the The Gwent Levels are a distinctive topographic zone Caldicot Level, which extends between the River Usk comprising of a low-lying, flat and expansive coastal and the bedrock promontory at Sudbrook (c.47km2),; plain up to 6km wide that extends up to the Severn and a third smaller area known as the Mathern Level Estuary. Its elevation is typically between 5 - 6m AOD between Sudbrook and the River Wye (c.5km2). and generally below 10m AOD.

Living Levels 44 Living LevelsLiving Levels 45 45 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

The northern edge of the Gwent The Severn Estuary is fed by The Severn Estuary is backed by Levels is marked by the boundary the major rivers of the Severn, a low, flat depositional coastline between the slightly higher Wye, Usk and Avon. The estuary of soft Triassic and Jurassic rocks ground in the north, underlain expands in width from the mouth exposed along the shore creating by sedimentary rocks mainly of of the River Severn as it flows a wide rocky inter-tidal area Lower Old Red Sandstone from westwards to meet the Bristol including expansive tidal flats, the Devonian Period, and the Channel, creating a classic comprising of sand, mud and shin- lower, flatter land on reclaimed expansive funnel shape. The gle with occasional rocky outcrops estuarine alluvium to the south. funnelling efect of the South Wales exposed at low tide. The rocks are The estuarine alluvium is mainly coastline and the North Somerset visible in the clifs and prominent a blue-grey, silty mud up to 13 coast of England has a profound coastal headlands with wave-cut metres thick that gives rise to efect on the physical nature of platforms at their base, such as at heavy textured, poorly drained the Estuary. The immense tidal Black Rock near Sudbrook. clayey soils. range of the Severn Estuary and its coastal geometry combine to build Mud, sand and gravel sediments Prehistorically found at locations up the largest tidal bore in the UK deposited in the Holocene period across the Levels, the only further up the estuary. It boasts the have produced a varied sea bed of surviving peat bog on the Levels second highest tidal range in the flats and bars, with associated shal- is on the Caldicot Level south world, between 12 and 14m, which low waters and numerous shoals. of Magor. There are also some is second only to the Bay of Fundy The strong tidal streams, combined localised areas of peaty soils found in Canada. with the gradient of the seabed across the back fen. These most and thick mud, sand and gravel commonly occur as a layer of peat The Severn Estuary has seen sediments, produce waters of high covered by a clayey topsoil, but major and minor fluctuations in turbidity with an opaque brown where the soft black peat extends the heights and range of tides coloration and constantly shifting to the surface these areas are since the last glaciation caused by sediments and water depths. particularly wet. variations in both the land and sea level. During the last 7000 years, there have been huge changes in sea level with fresh water habitats on the Gwent Levels inundated by the sea.

Living Levels 46 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Stuart Wilding

Historic Landscape

The initial eforts to drain parts both on the Levels and on the well as a record of the changing of the Levels were made during dry land. Monks Ditch appears to environment covering many the Roman period (AD 43 - 410). represent a clear boundary within thousands of years. Recent years The full extent of this drainage the Levels, with land to the east has shown that entire prehistoric remains unknown and most of the potentially being held by English landscapes lie buried in the Levels. reclaimed land was subsequently lords whilst that to the west was flooded. However, some of the held by Welsh landlords (Rippon, The Levels are also rich in major drainage elements and axial 1997; 2014). earthworks preserving elements of alignments within the present the medieval and later landscape. landscape could have been first Over the last few decades the These include several moated established during this time (Allen field patterns on the Gwent farmsteads, sea and reen-side et al., 1992; Fulford et al., 1994; Levels have been studied in order banks and surface ridging in fields Rippon, 1996; Marvell, 2004). Any to understand the history and created to improve drainage. sea wall constructed at this time is sequence of this reclamation likely to have been seaward of the and the establishment of the The distribution of major archaeo- present one and no evidence has drainage network. The process logical discoveries shows a marked survived for a Roman sea wall. of reclamation and settlement bias towards the intertidal zone, was not constant and certainly since this is where the alluvium The current landscape of the there was a time at the end of the that overlies the prehistoric and Gwent Levels is predominantly a 14th century when population Roman landscapes has been result of the process of drainage decline and climate change led eroded away. Like the peat layer and recolonisation which to the (temporary) abandonment itself, this density of archaeological commenced during the Medieval of some areas of land (cf. Rippon, sites is likely to continue inland, but period (c. AD 1066 - 1500). This 1996; 1997). simply lie undiscovered. Another was linked to the post-Conquest concentration of sites lies along the settlement of south Wales and The Gwent Levels consist of up fen-edge, where there has been the influx of English settlers with to c.13m of alluvium and peat, considerable development expos- associated socio-economic stratified within which there ing the archaeological remains. elements that afected land are abundant traces of people’s ownership and land use. Some of exploitation of that wetland A variety of processes have led to the drainage may be associated environment during the prehistoric the creation of the “historic land- with monastic ownership and the period onwards. Particularly scape”, giving rise to diferent areas establishment of grange farms rich are the peat deposits, which possessing their own character. preserve wooden structures as A broad distinction can be drawn between landscapes created in a gradual way, and those that were

Living Levels 47 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Ray Ok

Figure 4 — Topography and Hydrology laid out in a single episode. fen. These areas tend to have Water Management and the landscapes of an “intermediate” Drainage System The former can be termed nature; rather more regular in lay- The distinctive pattern of the “irregular”, and are of great out than the “irregular landscapes”, drainage system in the Gwent complexity. They have small but not so rigidly planned as the Levels landscape is illustrated on irregularly shaped fields, often “regular” variety. Intermediate Figure 4. incorporating the meandering areas are characterised by a fairly lines of former tidal creeks. A rectilinear pattern of fields and The method of drainage was first piecemeal process of landscape roads, with just the occasional established in the Levels nearly formation occurred, in the farmstead or cottage. 1800 years ago. It takes the form eleventh to fourteenth centuries of a hierarchy of drainage (“high medieval” period). Roads The “regular” landscapes are very channels, which are now of are sinuous and broad, often with diferent. Their fields are rectan- considerable historic and nature an abundance of roadside waste; gular and occur in large blocks conservation importance. these “droveways” were vital for of similar sized fields. The roads moving livestock from summer to are straight and narrow, lacking The maintenance of this system winter pastures. Settlement was roadside waste. There is very little has always been a co-operative ef- dispersed, with hamlets, isolated settlement, mainly as these fort by farmers and the authorities farmsteads and cottages scattered landscapes occupy the lowest- in power. The former have tried to throughout the landscape. There lying land. A very diferent process protect their livelihoods and were a number of commons that of reclamation was responsible for prevent fertile lands being de- became the focus for settlements their creation; the large-scale and stroyed by flood. The latter, (e.g. Broadstreet in Nash; Whitson; rapid enclosure of extensive tracts beginning with the Roman legions and Peterstone). of land, in a single episode. and continuing with the medieval monasteries, marcher lords, the Colonisation started on the higher In addition to the distinctive Commissioners of Sewers, and ground towards the coast. The and characteristic field patterns a range of modern bodies, have lower-lying “backfen” was only belonging to diferent phases of been seeking to preserve their drained later, as population rose, enclosure described above, other interests in, and responsibilities for, increasing the demand for land. key surviving features of the Gwent the Levels as a whole. A sequence of reclamations can Levels’ historic landscape are often be identified, as communities described below. The whole drainage system in the gradually drained the back- Levels relies upon the sea wall. Historically the wall has retreated, with much of its present line dating

Living Levels 48 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh from the late medieval period. The saltmarsh beyond the sea wall The next tier in the hierarchy of In a total length of c.35km, there has traditionally provided summer drainage channels are the c.137km are many diferent styles and grazing. Only a limited number of of lesser reens. Water levels are dates of wall which were steadily farmers on the Wentlooge Level managed in these reens by pens improved and modified between have grazing rights to continue known as “stanks”, in which 1954 and 1974. this practice, which assists in wooden planks can be set to raise maintaining the diversity of the the water levels in summer and However, following a heavy storm plant communities. There are also reduce them in winter. in 1990 when these sea defences extensive tracts of common land were tested to the extreme, a on Wentlooge Level, for which Another important feature are the 10 year programme of raising local land owners continue to have “walls”, which seem to have been and strengthening the wall was grazing rights. low earth banks built on the uphill undertaken. This produced a much or seaward side of those reens more standardised structure hiding The first tier in the hierarchy of dug to drain the back-fen. They the existing complexities, which drainage channels that divide up provided additional protection make the short lengths of relict the Gwent Levels are the rivers from winter flooding to the better sea wall at Rumney Great Wharf, and the c.64 km of main reens land behind. Another feature of Peterstone Gout and alongside in which upland streams have these reens is the lines of pollarded Collister Pill even more valuable. been canalised to run across the willows planted to strengthen the low-lying levels and out through bank sides. a tidal flap system (gout) to the sea. Some of these main reens, By far the largest tier in the such as Monksditch and Mill Reen, drainage hierarchy is the c.1200km flow between raised banks onto of field ditches maintained by which the periodic clearings of the individual landowners. Here, reens are dumped. In places such the clearance of ditches and as Monksditch near the Whitson management of the associated sub-station and the north end of hedges may extend over a 10 to 30 Blackwall in Magor, the reen sides year cycle. are revetted by stone walls and timber facings.

Living Levels 49 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Figure 5 — Ecological Designations

Traditionally, the ditches would Access and Bridges Historic Settlement Patterns, have been kept open with occa- Buildings and Structures Access around the Levels depend- sional pollarded willows to help ed upon the larger droveways, support the banks but not hedges, The dispersed settlement of which form part of the framework and the ditches used as wet fences isolated farms in the coastal parts of each character area. Tracks and to keep the stock in. For example, of the Wentlooge and western paths were carried over the reens in the lowest-lying back-fens, the Caldicot Levels (all “irregular and field ditches by scores of small fields are characterised by stands landscapes”), contrasts with the bridges. Some may be several hun- of reeds and isolated willows. nucleated village of Redwick and dred years old, and fine examples linear settlement along Whitson survive along Mireland Pill Reen The lowest tier of the drainage Common. The back-fens are (Goldclif) and Rush Wall (Magor). hierarchy is the surface ridging. largely devoid of settlements Stone, brick, concrete and wooden Skilfully created by hand digging (“intermediate” and “regular” bridges over the watercourses all or ploughing, these slight landscapes), though the fen- survive, but many are in decay or earthworks provide a network of edge has always been a favoured have collapsed. shallow surface drainage gullies location for occupation. which take water of the field into The loss of routes due to bridge ditches and reens. They do not The historic farm houses and farm decline is associated with the survive in fields that have been buildings have always been at improvement of key bridges, such under drained and ploughed, the centre of the area’s economy. as those on public rights of way, which commenced from the late In some cases, farm complexes encouraging use along one single 1950s after improvement to the have been abandoned by new route rather than one from each drainage system. institutional owners. dwelling to a common destination such as the local church. Some As shown on Figure 5, there are of the old routes went into disuse four Conservation Areas within when the railway was built, as they the study area designated as crossed the tracks and so people being of special architectural stopped using them. or historic interest. Redwick, the largest nucleated village on the Levels, is a designated Conservation Area. Conservation Areas are also found in parts of Chepstow, Mathern and Rogiet.

Living Levels 50 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Figure 6 — Designated Heritage Assets

There are also 37 (seven of which Historic Orchards Over most of the Levels, prehistoric are Grade I) statutory listed and Roman landscapes are Alongside most farms used to buildings within the study area sealed by later alluvium. Due to be an orchard, and the surviving designated as being of special the depth of this alluvium even examples are an important architectural or historic interest the most advanced methods of feature of the Levels. The end (see Figure 6). These include for non-interventional prospection of cider making locally means example the recently restored cannot identify such sites without that most orchards are no longer Grade II Listed Pye Corner Farm excavation. However, this blanket commercially viable. However, in Nash, which is thought to have of alluvium, and the resulting there are some fine examples, been initially constructed in the waterlogged conditions, give notably in Goldclif, Redwick and 17th century; the Grade II* Church rise to excellent preservation of Magor. The Gwent Levels orchards of St Mary in Marshfield, which is archaeological deposits. have produced their own specific likely to date from the 13th or 14th apple and pear varieties. century date; and the Grade II* There are 14 Scheduled Church of St Bridget in St Brides Monuments within the study area Buried Archaeology Wentlooge, which is probably 12th designated as being archaeological or 13th century in origin. The area contains a wealth of sites and monuments of national archaeological and heritage importance. These include for A considerable number of other assets of national importance, example the Goldclif moated historic buildings and structures much within the waterlogged house site, almost certainly of have been recorded within the soils across the area, illustrating medieval date; the Grangefield study area, which are not included the history of human occupation moated site of a medieval grange on the national statutory list nor and management of a reclaimed farm which was an early property on any local list. These range from coastal landscape. owned by the Cistercian abbey farmhouses and farm buildings of Tintern; and relict seabanks in to mills, cottages, bridges and Recent work has shown that the Rumney and Undy. railway sidings, and Second World Levels are particularly rich in War military structures such as buried archaeology, of national pillboxes and the barrage balloon and international importance, both bases near Pye Corner. There are in the intertidal zone and inland of also timber and concrete features the sea wall. within the intertidal muds along the fringes of the Severn Estuary.

Living Levels 51 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

The Severn Estuary Local fishing fleets and recreational has long been recognised. Both Due to recurrent phases of charters continue to exploit the the Roman and Viking fleets made inundation and alluviation, rich marine resources, trawling approaches via the Bristol Channel there is a proven potential for the sand banks for plaice, turbot, and Severn Estuary and occupied extensive, buried, waterlogged, whiting and rays, whilst beach the wider area. archaeological and environmental netting and angling occurs along deposits belonging to the earlier the coastline, particularly on Today, the Estuary retains its landscapes, which extend beyond Wentlooge Level. long-standing role in marine the seawalls and banks into transportation, with Avonmouth the intertidal mudflats. These The importance of the Estuary for (Bristol) now expanded to be one include the remains of Neolithic/ maritime trade burgeoned from of the UK’s major ports. Although Bronze Age settlement sites, as the medieval period onwards, Newport’s port functions have evidenced by human footprints, particularly following the Industrial declined since their 19th century lithic finds, butchered animal Revolution which transformed peak, it still plays an important bone, brushwood trackways and Cardif into one of the largest role in the import and export of roundhouses (e.g. in the vicinity of coal ports in the world (the coal a range of products including Collister Pill). sourced from the valleys supplied containers, steel, aggregates, the Naval fleet). The import forest products and dry and liquid The long-standing relationship and export of goods and raw bulks. Newport sees around 1.5 between local communities on materials along the estuary fed the million tonnes of goods pass the Gwent Levels and the Estuary expansion and wealth of Cardif, through its port each year. is evidenced by small, traditional Newport, Bristol and Gloucester. landing places for cross-channel The pattern of ship wrecks trade, which serviced communities illustrate both the dangerous such as Peterstone, Goldclif, navigational conditions and the Rumney and Redwick, and are Estuary’s role as a maritime trafc associated with early medieval ship route (with losses associated with finds. Intertidal fishtraps from the the Cardif approaches and hazards same period are found at Goldclif, such as the Aldridge Shoal). West Pill and Caldicot, with the traditional method of “lavenet” As well as trade and exploitation fishing continuing to be practiced of the area’s natural resources, the by some local fisherman. strategic role of the Estuary as a key entry point into Britain by sea

Living Levels 52 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Landscape habitats and biodiversity

The Gwent Levels is home to a As shown on Figure 5, the majority Collectively the suite of eight rich assemblage of wildlife. The of the study area is designated SSSIs over the Gwent Levels area, exceptionally high productivity as being of European, National cover 5,856 hectares. By far the of the alluvial soils has been a and Local nature conservation largest complex of lowland SSSIs catalyst for on-going investment importance and value. The special in a coastal and floodplain grazing in drainage and agricultural features of these designations are marsh in Wales. The individual site improvement within the summarised below. names are: Levels since Roman times. The predominant semi-natural habitats SSSI designations Ŕ

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habitats providing a refuge for Rights of Way Act 2000. SSSIs are Goldclif SSSI; rare and endangered wetland highly protected to safeguard Ŕ

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species. Precisely because of the range, quality and variety of Ŕ

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these gradual changes followed by habitats, species and geological Llandevenny SSSI; centuries of stable maintenance features in all parts of Wales. Ŕ

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of the watercourses, the Gwent Undy SSSI; Levels now has one of the The suite of eight SSSIs were Ŕ

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invertebrates in the country. The because of the range of aquatic amount and variety of water- plants and invertebrates associated Qualifying features can be courses, be it; grips, ditches, reens with the reens and ditches of the categorised under four headings: or main rivers provides a myriad of drainage system that have been opportunities for diferent species. able to take advantage of the Ŕ

Reen and Ditch Habitat – this The diversity of habitats and the specific environmental conditions habitat is a qualifying feature in wide range of ecological niches created by the extensive network it’s own right due to the species is dependent on sustaining the of the Gwent Levels drainage it supports traditional management of the network and the pattern of Ŕ

Plant Species – both reens and ditches. The inter-tidal both water level and vegetation individually qualifying species habitats of the Severn Estuary and management which has occurred and assemblage of rare wetland the riparian habitats of the Rivers over many years. and marginal plant species Wye, Usk and Rhymney are also important areas for biodiversity within the study area.

Living Levels 53 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Figure 7 — Gwent Levels SSSIs

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Insects and Other Water Beetle, and aquatic plants, Additionally, the Levels are also Invertebrates (aquatic) – both many found nowhere else in home to many Biodiversity Action individually qualifying species Wales and only in a handful of Plan species, including the rare and assemblage of grazing sites in Southern England. Gwent Shrill Carder bee, and the rare hairy marsh invertebrates. Over Levels’ sites support the only dragonfly. Regularly mown reen 260 species of wetland insect Welsh populations of Rootless banks and rough grassland areas and other invertebrates have duckweed Wolfa arrhiza - the provide important habitat as they been recorded throughout world’s smallest flowering vascular contain the flowers preferred by the Gwent Levels. For several plant - and the ‘Back Ditch’ in the the bee for sources of nectar and species including the soldier Magor and Undy area contains the pollen, such as red clover, creeping fly Odontomyia ornata and rare beetle Agabus conspersis. thistle and black knapweed. the water beetle Hydaticus A number of European protected transversalis, the Gwent Levels species and UK protected species Located on the western edge of are the only recorded locations have been confirmed to be the Caldicot Level, the Newport in Wales present, including dormice, grass Wetlands National Nature Reserve Ŕ
Shrill Carder bee – a terrestrial snake, some bat species, otter SSSI is of importance for its bird insect, once fairly widespread, and great crested newt. There species. The Newport Wetlands now known from less than 20 have been recent extinctions Environmental and Education sites in the UK. Within the Gwent including the native water vole. Visitor Centre is owned and Levels SSSIs it is associated with However, in recent years following managed by NRW working in the reen, ditch and field margins a period of mink control water partnership with RSPB Cymru, as well as road verges and voles have been reintroduced Newport City Council and others, the Sea wall, where there are at Gwent Wildlife Trust’s Magor working for the benefit of wildlife abundant sources of pollen. Marsh nature reserve. Mink control and people. The site represents continues with the help of a band part of the compensation Figure 7 above shows the locations of dedicated volunteers much measures for the loss of the Taf/ of all 8 SSSIs. further afield. Once returned the Ely Estuary SSSI to the Cardif water voles have thrived and in Bay Barrage Project. The Reserve With every field across the 5856 the course of 3 years have spread is a wetland creation project, hectares of the Gwent Levels as far as the Newport Wetlands originally designed to provide bounded by a water course the reserve (NNR) at Goldclif a habitat for wetland bird species. wildlife potential is staggering. distance of at least 7km. Full planning permission consent The extensive network of reens for the development of saline house nationally important lagoons, reedbeds and lowland species, including the Great Silver

Living Levels 54 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

wet grassland was granted in higher plants; over-wintering 4000 local school children visiting November 1997, subject to 29 birds; breeding birds; insects and the reserve annually. conditions. The Reserve was other aquatic invertebrates. The acquired by the Land Authority site supports nationally important The Great Traston Meadows Na- Wales in February 1998 and habitat numbers of shoveler and black ture Reserve is located to the north creation works were undertaken tailed godwit. Cetti’s warbler are of Newport Wetlands near Pye by Cardif Bay Development found all year round and, bittern, Corner. It is owned by Eastman Corporation. Ownership of the originally a winter visitor, have Chemical Company and managed Reserve passed to CCW in March been present for the past two years by the Gwent Wildlife Trust. The 2000. In October 2006, the British during spring and summer. During main habitat is grazing marsh, with Trust for Ornithology assessed summer, the wet grassland, saline associated ditches, reens and grips. the reserve data and concluded lagoons and reedbeds support a Pollarded willows line many of the that the reserve had achieved the variety of breeding birds, including reens. The site is important for its Reserve Steering Group target of populations of lapwing, redshank, diversity of wetland and grassland attracting 2 species of water bird water rail, skylark, reed bunting, plants, breeding birds and inver- in nationally important numbers little grebe, dunlin, curlew, and the tebrates. Part of the reserve lies over a five year average, and had rare nesting bearded tits. within the Gwent Levels (Nash and become a “functional component Goldclif) SSSI. of the Severn Estuary SPA” and Visitor numbers to the reserve therefore suitable for qualifying initially rose to approximately Located on the eastern part of as part of the Severn Estuary SPA 20,000 a year, and the potential for Caldicot Level, Magor Marsh which was the goal set by the the reserve to do more than attract SSSI and Magor Marsh Nature Secretary of State in 1996. water birds was realised. In 2003 Reserve are the largest remnant CCW, RSPB Cymru and Newport of the formerly extensive peat Newport Wetlands was declared City Council signed a “Statement fenlands near the Gwent coast. a National Nature Reserve in April of Intent” in respect to providing The Magor Marsh Nature Reserve 2008. In March 2010, Newport environmental education. In March is owned and managed by the Wetlands was declared a SSSI 2008 an environmental education Gwent Wildlife Trust. The special in its own right, with 19 notified and visitor centre run by the RSPB features of this relatively small site features, 14 of which are due Cymru was opened. The visitor are its marshy grassland; neutral entirely to the reserves creation centre and car park were leased grassland; swamp; standing in 2000. The special features are to the RSPB Cymru on a 75 year water; and wetland invertebrate its reens and ditches; reedbeds; peppercorn rent. Visitor numbers assemblage. The site is nationally reached over 106,000 in 2016 with important for its assemblage of

Living Levels 55 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh vascular plants and supports a International Conservation group of rare craneflies. Scarce variety of common reed, sedge Designations higher plant communities at the and submerged and emergent The Severn Estuary is protected river’s tidal reaches are also of aquatic plants. Areas of wet meadow by a number of international special interest. Although not a and both willow and alder carr nature conservation designations, special feature of the designation, woodland with an intersecting reflecting the outstanding value there is a good range of breeding system of drainage ditches, reens of its habitats and species. These birds associated with the riverine and ponds are present. The site is designations include Special habitats. The SSSI designation an important breeding ground for Area of Conservation, Special includes some areas of adjacent water and marsh birds. The Nature Protection Area, Ramsar Site and habitat, such as woodland, Reserve comprises the Magor Marsh European Marine Site. The River marshy grassland, stands of tall SSSI together with two additional Usk, which divides the Wentlooge herb, swamp and fen vegetation, blocks of land (Barecroft Common) and Caldicot Levels as it flows saltmarsh and coastal grassland. within the Gwent Levels (Redwick from Newport into the Severn and Llandevenny). Estuary, and the River Wye which The Severn Estuary European enters the Severn Estuary at Marine Site incorporates SAC, SPA Newport also support habitats and Ramsar site designations. The and species of international special features of the European significance, and are both Special Marine Site are the Estuary; its Areas of Conservation. subtidal sandbanks; intertidal mud and sand; atlantic salt meadow/ Within the study area, the River saltmarshes; reefs; migratory fish Usk SAC and SSSI runs through (river and sea lamprey, twaite Newport to the confluence with shad, salmon, eel, sea trout the River Ebbw at Newport where and allis shad) and assemblage it enters the Severn Estuary. The of fish species; internationally special features of the SAC are important populations of the presence of a range of fish migratory and wintering bird species (including sea lamprey, species; internationally important brook lamprey, river lamprey, populations of waterfowl; rocky twaite shad, Atlantic salmon and shores; and freshwater grazing bullhead) and otter. The special marsh/neutral grassland. The River features of the SSSI are running Severn is also designated as a water; otter; fish species; and a SSSI, the special features of which

Living Levels 56 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape are the estuarine fauna, which (a major river system flowing into includes invertebrate populations the River Usk south of Newport of considerable interest in addition Docks with associated semi- to the internationally important improved neutral grassland and populations of wintering waterfowl marshy grassland, swamp, scrub and migratory fish. In addition, the and semi-neutral woodland); estuary fringes including areas of the Solutia Site SINC (a series of saltmarsh supporting a range of improved and semi-improved saltmarsh types are also special grasslands with traditional ditches features of the SSSI. and ponds east of the River Usk in Newport); and the Blue House As shown on Figure 5, the study Farm SINC south of Magor (a area also includes a large number botanically interesting tall mosaic of Sites of Importance for Nature of damp and dry grassland habitats Conservation (SINCs). Examples enclosed by ditches and reens). of these local non-statutory sites Image Credit: include the Afon Ebbw River SINC Peter Strimming

Living Levels 57 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Robin Drayton

Cultural Landscape

Farming While productive, the combination of heavy textured subsoils and The Gwent Levels is predominantly poor drainage make the land under agricultural land use. challenging to manage and as a Roughly 600 individual farmers result the majority of the Gwent and landowners look after c. Levels are generally of low quality 1200km of field ditches across the agricultural land (Agricultural Gwent Levels landscape. There Land Classification Grade 4). There are approximately 125 active are also some pockets of higher farms; these include dairy, beef, quality agricultural land which sheep, and arable, and cover support arable fields in drier areas. approximately 6000 hectares. Field patterns vary widely, at times The activities of the agricultural the product of cultural evolution, sector are therefore a key influence at others to meet prevailing sys- on the character of the landscape. tems of agriculture or to respond Despite the urbanising influences to topographical features. His- of settlement encroachment, torically, it is thought that in the industrial land uses and transport/ earliest days the land was used energy infrastructure, most of the largely as summer pasture before Gwent Levels landscape still has a the successive engineering skills largely rural, pastoral character. of the Romans and, later, monastic houses and the Normans devel- As a result of the soil quality, oped the present sophisticated favourable climate and the methods of draining the land and availability of water, the area has preventing encroachment of the very high yielding pasture and Severn Estuary waters. Traditional lush meadows that produces agriculture has seen a steady notable volumes of meat and decline over the last century with dairy produce. However, much agricultural policy favouring larger agricultural activity is dependent more intensive farming practices. on the management of water levels In some cases, where traditional and flooding and a fragile balance farming is no longer viable, former between water and farming exists. agricultural land is now being used

Living Levels 58 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh for equestrian grazing and stabling. Section 15 agreements However, a strong farming com- munity remains, united by their NRW have 27 Management passion for the landscape they and Agreements with farmers within their forbearers created; but with the Levels project area under widely difering views on how best s16 of the Environment (Wales) to protect it for future generations. Act 2016 [previously s15 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 Current Agricultural support – as amended by the Countryside Glastir & Rights of Way Act 2000]. These usually run for five years, after this Glastir is the sustainable land NRW review the management, management scheme through and can often ofer to renew the which Welsh Government ofers agreement. Agreements have an financial support to farmers and ‘area payment’ component and land managers. Glastir pays for the a ‘positive works’ programme of delivery of specific environmental ditching within it. Due to the large goods and services and is aimed number of landowners and the at combating climate change, limited budget for s16 agreements improving water management NRW cannot ofer these to all and maintaining and enhancing farmers, rather the programme biodiversity. Uptake of Glastir targets land where the greatest across the Gwent Levels is poor, it SSSI benefits can be gained. is unpopular with farmers, and the future of the scheme following the Brexit vote uncertain.

Glastir Advanced provides additional financial support at targeted locations, and is intended to deliver specific conservation objectives and management options. Targeting of the advanced scheme did not originally include the Gwent Levels however, and is being reviewed in 2017.

Living Levels 59 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Industry and Settlement

Settlement patterns on the Levels The Newport Town Dock was Llanwern Steelworks began vary between the larger (but still opened in 1842 to address production in 1961, and was small) groupings on the rising the needs of the coal and iron formally opened by HM The back lands, single farms at the exporters and was expanded in Queen in 1962. Built in the back end of narrow roads (frequently 1858. The Alexandra Dock was land area of Caldicot Level to running alongside reens) and small initiated in the 1860s and the the south of and adjacent to a clusters of houses. The Wentlooge North Dock and associated lock three mile stretch of the Great Level has seen the encroachment opened in 1875. A South Dock Western Railway, it stood alone of business and industrial parks opened in 1893 but was soon in the countryside to the east of adjacent to Cardif. The western extended and an enlarged dock Newport. Since that time the City coastal area here is now the Lamby was opened in 1907 with a new has gradually spread eastwards to Way Landfill site on the coast South Lock opening in 1914. Just the site boundary. Although steel where the Rhymney River meets to the north of the docks the River making ceased in 2001, there is still the Severn Estuary - the former Usk is spanned by the Newport some sizable infrastructure based Lamby Way Landfill site is now Transporter Bridge (Grade I listed). on the site. The redundant part of awaiting restoration. This was constructed to link the the works is being transformed town with industrial development into the extensive Glan Llyn Further inland, where the on the east side of the river and residential development with 4000 landscape setting is more was opened in 1906. A gondola new homes, new schools, a district dominated by the modern urban or moving platform is suspended centre, sports fields, shops, ofces sprawl of Cardif and Newport, from a high level beam and carries and restaurants that will greatly there are fewer remaining features vehicles and passengers across the extend the conurbation of the City. of cultural importance. river. The bridge is almost 74 m high and spans more than 195 m. During the Second World War, a number of military positions were established around Newport in order to defend the docks, which were a strategic target for enemy airborne assault. A number of features associated with these wartime defences are still present in the area.

Living Levels 60 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Modern development within The towers of the 133kV overhead the Levels and the adjacent land electricity transmission lines also includes the Uskmouth marching across the landscape power stations, chemical and are also prominent features of aluminium plants and also the the Levels. Abrupt engineered industrial estates and business embankments associated with parks such as the Gwent Europark drainage, local roads and utilities and Imperial Park. There has also infrastructure, are also a typical been considerable settlement feature in many parts of the study growth in and around the major area. In some places, the approach urban conurbations of Newport has been to avoid integration of and Cardif, and also in the infrastructure, which can serve to surrounding villages including draw attention to these features in those on the Levels. the open landscape.

Image Credit: Industry and Settlement Robin Drayton

Living Levels 61 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Transport Infrastructure

Motorways, other major highways The M4 motorway runs across the With the City region approach and and railways dominate the eastern part of Caldicot Level and the funding mechanism of the northern fringes of the Levels forms the northern boundary of City Deal agreed, the Living Levels landscape, providing both a means the area. A new road from London area is located on a transport and of rapid access to and bypass to South Wales was first proposed development corridor seen as of the region. The Levels are in the 1930s, and in 1956 the vital to Wales’ growth aspirations principally located to the south of Ministry of Transport announced under the new South Wales Metro the Cardif-London Railway, except plans for the M4 as one of the scheme set to be developed over towards the north-east where they first major post-war trunk road the next decade. A key proposal appear between the railway and improvement projects. Between as part of the project includes the the M4 and M48 that cut through 1966 and 1996, the Severn Bridge proposed Cardif Parkway Station the northern fringe of the Levels. (now a Grade I listed structure), in St Mellons which is currently carried the M4 motorway across in the first stages of the planning The South Wales to London the River Severn and River Wye process. If built, it would serve a Mainline railway cuts across the from Aust in South Gloucestershire new 188 acre business park at St northern part of the Gwent Levels. to Chepstow in Monmouthshire. Mellons and up to 32,000 residents. It was constructed in the mid-19th The Second Severn Crossing century (this section opened in opened in 1996, together with new 1850) as the South Wales Railway link motorways on either side of and was engineered by Isambard the estuary to divert the M4 over Kingdom Brunel, enabling his Great the new crossing. The existing Western Railway to extend the link route over the original Severn from London into South Wales. Bridge was redesignated the M48.

Living Levels 62 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Newport CC

Leisure, Tourism and Recreation

The Gwent Levels landscape is Peterstone and St Pierre Golf Clubs Although the Gwent Levels is not used by local communities and and Wyevale Garden Centre, the currently a competitive “traditional” visitors for a range of outdoor Medieval Newport Ship, Cwm tourism destination in terms of leisure and recreation activities, Hedd Fishing Lakes; Springfield discrete geography, services or in particular walking, cycling and Riding Stables; St Mellons Golf Club recognition, it has the potential bird-watching as well as fishing and Walnut Tree Farm. to capitalise on the growth in and wildfowling along the face of experiential tourism; the desire of the Estuary. The Living Levels area visitors to seek out new areas and encompasses elements of several products that are underexploited Facilities and destinations include tourism destinations (counties and ofer “authenticity”. The range promoted recreational routes of Cardif, Monmouthshire and of strands (from geographical, (such as the Wales Coast Path, Newport) and also falls under the geological and archaeological NCN Route 4, Sirhowy Valley Walk umbrella of brands well known by to cultural and social as well as and the Rhymney River Walk); the public including RSPB Cymru, economic heritage) represent country parks (Caldicot Castle, National Trust, Sustrans and the challenges in terms of catering Parc Trederlech and National Trust Wales Coast Path. The Levels ofers for many interests. However, the Tredegar House and Tredegar many stories and experiences but Gwent Levels has a wealth of House Caravan Club); nature these have not been organised into unexploited and under promoted reserves (Newport Wetlands, a coherent marketing proposition stories to tell that can make Magor Marsh and Great Traston that can be used by its many content delivery rich and varied. Meadows); villages (such as partners and it would appear Redwick and Peterstone); Hendre that even on the ground (with Lake near St Mellons; and the the exception of some of those Transporter Bridge (a distinctive working within the hospitality landmark, visitor attraction and and conservation sectors) there is crossing point for users of the limited recognition by residents Wales Coast Path). The Living and communities of the area’s Levels area also contains a diverse potential appeal to visitors. The range of tourism facilities, in study area has patchy recognition addition to the infrastructure of in terms of its visitor ofer among walks and cycle routes including: the local community and is not Sudbrook Heritage Centre and viewed, as yet, as a destination in Black Rock; Newport Retail Park its own right. and Newport Sports Village; Peterstone Coarse Fishing Lakes,

Living Levels 63 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

The Linguistic Landscape

Set in the context of an overall In the Newport part of the Gwent The Welsh language and history decline in Welsh speaking, Levels, the percentage of people of the area have been interwoven reading and writing across Wales, aged 3+ years who could speak through the culture over the ages. communities in diferent parts of Welsh at the time of the last The names of agricultural fields, the Gwent Levels have seen both Census in the electoral ward of places, farmsteads and houses an increase and decrease in the Llanwern (on Caldicot Level) was in the Gwent Levels are a mix of use of the Welsh language from 11.2% compared with 9.3% for Welsh and English. Over the years, 2001 to 2011. Newport and 19.0% for Wales. new people have moved in to find The percentage of people aged work, to retire or for a lifestyle In the Monmouthshire part of 3+ years who could speak Welsh change. Also, people (mostly the Gwent Levels, there was a at the time of the last Census in young) have moved out of the rise in Welsh language speakers the electoral ward of Lliswerry area, predominantly in pursuit of from 9.7% to 9.9%, one of only (on Caldicot Level) was 8.9%. education or in search of work. two areas in Wales to see a rise in The percentage of people aged These changes have a profound this period. A major contributing 3+ years who could speak Welsh efect on the use of the Welsh factor to this rise was the growth at the time of the last Census in language and the culture. of two Welsh medium primary the electoral ward of Marshfield schools in the County, one of (on Wentlooge Level) was 9.2%. Other languages are also spoken which (Ysgol Gymraeg y Ffin) is In September 2016, Newport City in the Gwent Levels, particularly located in Caldicot. At the time of Council’s first Welsh Medium in urban areas, by a number of the last Census (2011), 11.2% of the Secondary School was established. minority groups. According to population of Severnside stated Ysgol Gyfun Gwent Iscoed, serves SEWREC, language can be a real that they were able to speak Welsh, both the City of Newport and barrier to integration for several as well as 8.3% saying they could Ysgol Y Ffin catchment areas and minority groups including the speak, read and write in Welsh. its chosen name ‘Gwent Iscoed’ Roma populations of Cardif and meaning Gwent beneath the wood Newport and refugee and asylum (Wentwood) is a reflection of the groups in particular. region’s historic landscape. The landscape has its own In the Cardif part of the Gwent fascinating local ‘Levels Lingo’ or Levels, the Census indicated that vocabulary - such as ‘reens’, ‘grips’ only 7.8% of those aged 3+ in the and ‘noddles’ – that provides electoral wards of Llanrumney, an insight into the origins of Rumney and Trowbridge (on the landscape over 1800 years the Wentlooge Level) are Welsh ago and how it continues to be speakers, which is below the city managed today. average of 11.1%.

Living Levels 64 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Folklore

The Gwent Levels are mentioned in the Mabinogion, the collection of tales of early Welsh literature that intertwines myths, folklore, tradition and history. The story of the ‘Tides’ tells of a log which used to block a holy well and became covered in filth and mud. The Tyrigs used to stand on the log and it drifted out every fourth tide. However, it always found its way back, completely cleansed.

According to local folklore the sides of Monksditch, the 13th Century drainage ditch probably constructed by the monks at Goldclif, are laced with smuggler’s brandy.

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Living Levels 65 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

“What is this life if, full of care We have no time to stand and stare?”

Image Credit: The Artistic Landscape Nigel Pugh

The favourite subject of the Contemporary artists have also Born in St Brides Wentlooge in prolific English landscape and been inspired by the scenery of 1867, the actor Lynn Harding topographical artist Henry the Gwent Levels. For example, achieved international recognition Gastineau (1791–1876) was oil paintings of Wentlooge Level in a 62 year career sharing coastal scenery. Gastineau by landscape artist Peter Brown, stages with such greats as John produced a series of water- produced in 2012 for an exhibition Gielgud, Ralph Richardson and colour paintings of views in the called ‘Brown and Corsellis’ at Anthony Quayle. Harding played Mathern and Caldicot Levels for Cardif’s Albany Gallery, capture Professor Moriarty in Sherlock ‘Wales Illustrated’ (1830-1831). views of reed-fringed reens within Holmes, Bill Sykes in Oliver Twist These included ‘Caldicot Castle, the pastoral landscape. on Broadway and Owain Glyndwr Caldicot Level, Monmouthshire’ in Shakespeare’s Henry VII on (a distant view of the castle with The River Usk inspired the poetry BBC Radio. Even at the height of sheep and cattle by a brook in of Paul Henry who lived in his career, Harding frequently the foreground); ‘Mathern, from Newport, which is the subject of returned to his home village of St St. Pierre Pill, Monmouthshire’ (a his 2005 poem ‘Between Two Brides, giving short performances view across fields to the village of Bridges’ set against the backdrop in aid of various village afairs and Mathern near Chepstow); ‘Mathern of the Newport cityscape: local charities, especially those for Palace, Monmouthshire’ (a view “Between two bridges I follow poor children. of the mediaeval bishop’s palace him…Past a wave sculpted in near Chepstow with cattle in steel, a boat they found inside Poet William Henry Davies was the foreground); and ‘Sudbrook the mud and thought an ark to also born in Newport, Monmouth- Chapel on Caldicot Level, save the port…The cradle under shire, Wales, the son of a publican. Monmouthshire’ (a view of the the big bridge is a pendulum, His poem ‘Leisure’ is most famous chapel ruin on the estuary). marking time. It ferries its load, for it’s opening lines which are back and fore…The river shufes printed at the top of this page. on to the sea.”

The rising and falling tides along the Gwent Levels’ coastline were an inspiration to Anne Cluysenaar, a renowned Belgian born poet. Cluysenaar drew on the surroundings of her adopted home in Monmouthshire in poems such as Timeslips (1997), which reflected on slippages of time in landscape.

Living Levels 66 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

“I remember as a child building dens, jumping ditches and swinging in the withy trees”

Image Credit: Public Perceptions of the Landscape Iain Macaulay

Feedback from the Living Levels remember the efects of serious Cultural Landscape – local people community engagement flooding – i.e. via accounts of the living on the Levels appear to have process has been reviewed to gain 1956 floods – the last time that the a deep afnity with the Gwent an understanding of the public Sea wall was breached. Generally Levels landscape, as a place of perceptions of the Gwent Levels there is lower awareness and memory and as a closely knit landscape. From the range of com- concern amongst the younger community (e.g. “I remember as ments received, it is evident that communities and residents living a child building dens, jumping local people are extremely proud at the edges of the Gwent Levels. ditches and swinging in the of and value their area. However, Many of these residents do not withy trees”). Access to the beyond those living immediately even realise that the Levels have Gwent Levels via public rights of on the Levels there is much more been reclaimed and that the way for horse riding, rambling, limited awareness and recognition. long-term flood risk for the area cycling, running and dog-walking is reliant on the maintenance of is highly valued (e.g. “very easily The feedback is summarised the current drainage system and accessible” and the “cycling below in relation to the sea defences. With new settlement is the best in the country”) LANDMAP aspects: patterns and other social change Respondents to a Newport Involve the historical knowledge is not Citizen’s Panel Survey were asked Geological Landscape – it guaranteed a long term future. “What are the stories, myths and is generally understood that legends that people associate fluvial and coastal processes Historic Landscape – while there with the Gwent Levels?” 100 are a key influence in shaping is a clear awareness of some comments were received and the Gwent Levels and making specific heritage features in the while the most common answer it a “distinctive and uncommon landscape, the residents on the was ‘I don’t know any’, 15 people landscape”. Importantly there urban fringe and around the edges mentioned the Great Flood/ remains a generation of interested have a much lower awareness of Tsunami or flooding and five and engaged local residents, the landscape than those living in people raised the influence of landowners and workers who market towns and villages located the Church and monks. Over 30 have a deep understanding of the on the Levels directly. E.g. “Heard respondents said they would be unique way in which the Levels of the Gwent Levels but no idea keen to find out more about the have been formed and maintained where they are”, “I was unaware stories and legends of the area over centuries. However, our of the historic significance of and would welcome a project that engagement revealed that the Gwent Levels landscape as a explored this. There appears to be awareness is higher amongst whole” and ”I have never heard genuine interest from the wider older resident communities on the it labelled as the Gwent Levels community to discover more Levels who have experienced and until now” are typical of the about this landscape. comments received.

Living Levels 67 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Chart showing iconic species associated with the Gwent Levels.

Landscape Habitats – the Visual and Sensory – the importance of the Levels as a changing light, fresh air an sanctuary for wildlife, and as a d open skies of the Levels is place where people can reconnect widely valued by the public, as with the natural environment are the opportunities aforded and learn about wildlife, is widely for a tranquil, peaceful escape understood and valued by the from busy city life (e.g. the Gwent community (e.g. “incredible we Levels are “only a few miles from have this nature on our doorstep” Newport but it’s a diferent and “the best thing is to have world!” and they are “romantic, space to explore and be closer beautiful and natural”). However, to nature”). Conservation and many people feel they are restoration activities ranked second blighted by fly-tipping and local in both of our surveys for activities environment quality is poor – that the public wanted to see the particularly down at the LLLP develop. Asked what iconic Wentloog end, “Gradually being species, if any, do people associate destroyed by fly-tipping”, with the Gwent Levels, the most “Wentloog end-scrufy and common answers are charted unloved- needs a cleanup.” above (128 comments were received through the Newport Involve Citizen’s Panel Survey – the full survey returns are included in appendix 12).

Whilst there were a lot of ‘dont know and no idea’ answers, it was encouraging to see some of the well-known success stories such as the reintroduced water vole featuring and some of the rare invertebrates and flora also being referred to by name (see above).

Living Levels 68 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Recreation and Sites Image Credit: of Interest Newport CC

Natural and Semi-Natural Green and Blue Corridors Ŕ

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be found both within and outside aquatic habitats. In addition to byways, many of which are of designated sites and nature their vital function in supporting part of the public rights of reserves, such as the foreshore the dispersal of wildlife between way network which include of the Estuary beyond the Sea natural and semi-natural bridleways and link to Sirhowy wall; reedbeds; wet meadows, greenspaces within the agricultural Valley long distance route grazing marsh, woodlands and landscape and urban areas, Ŕ

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developed/brownfield land. opportunities for walking, cycling (important green corridors) and other outdoor recreation In addition to supporting a activities where these functions Farmland, Orchards and range of habitats for wildlife, coincide. Within the study Allotments these natural and semi-natural area, significant green and blue greenspaces can also provide corridors include: Farmland, orchards and allotments managed access for informal can contribute to local food recreation (such as walking Ŕ

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production and landscape and bird watching at Newport (important green/blue corridors character. Within the study Wetlands, Great Traston Meadows incorporating public access in area, farmland includes both and Magor Marsh nature reserves, some places) commercial farming businesses which are partially accessible). Ŕ

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and small holdings. Historically, and Wye (important green/blue orchards were a distinctive feature corridors incorporating public of the landscape found alongside access, including links to long most farms and the Gwent Levels distance walking routes along orchards produced their own the River Usk and River Wye in specific apple and pear varieties. some places) However, the end of cider making Ŕ

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locally means that most orchards important marine blue corridor are no longer commercially viable for migration of fish and birds). and they are now limited to a few sites in the vicinity of Goldclif, Redwick and Magor on Caldicot

Living Levels 69 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Image Credit: Newport CC

Level, plus a small number on Parks and Gardens Heritage Sites Wentlooge Level. There are also a number of allotments within the Public parks and gardens provide Heritage sites provide study area such as the ‘Grow Your opportunities for informal opportunities for informal Own’ scheme at Castleton and a recreation that can contribute to recreation and intellectual access few community gardens. people’s health and well-being, and to history that contributes to also provide habitats for wildlife. people’s health and well-being. Cemeteries and Churchyards Within the study area, there a Examples within the study area number of urban parks in east include historic estates such as In addition to providing important Cardif (Parc Coed y Nant, Parc Tredegar House and Llanwern habitats for wildlife, cemeteries Coed y Cwar, Parc Tredelerch and Park, and historic monuments and churchyards can also provide Fishpond Wood) and in Newport. such as Caldicot Castle, Chepstow opportunities for quiet reflection The study area also includes Castle, Magor Church and and spiritual enrichment that Tredegar Park and Caldicot Castle Procurators House, the Transporter contribute to people’s well- Country Park. Bridge (grade one listed), and being. Examples within the study grade one listed churches (St Mary, area include urban cemeteries, Amenity Greenspaces Caldicot, St Mary, Undy and St churchyards associated with small Thomas, Redwick). rural parish churches (such as Amenity greenspaces those at Peterstone Wentlooge, predominantly provide Nash, Whiston and Redwick), and opportunities for formal outdoor cemeteries and churchyards on the sports and recreation that edge of larger conurbations such contribute to people’s health as Rogiet and Portskewett. and well-being. Examples within the study area include formal amenity greenspaces associated with sports facilities such as the Newport International Sports Village, Peterstone Coarse Fishing Lakes, Peterstone, St Mellons and St Pierre Golf Clubs and a range of more informal amenity greenspaces in urban areas, such as those associated with the Severnside settlements.

Living Levels 70 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Demographics

The demographics of the Local The historic relationship between is forecast to increase by less than Authority areas are complex; the Gwent Levels and these one percent over the next twenty they are a mix of urban wards settlements has been significantly years. Of far greater significance surrounded by rural wards on disrupted by modern railways, are changes in the age profile of their outskirts and around their motorways and urbanisation. the county with the number of coastline. The rural wards are a Despite the proximity of these over 85 year olds predicted to mix of sought after, more afuent major conurbations and large more than double by 2039 while wards with unemployment towns, today there are increasingly the number of people under 18 will figures below the Wales average limited visual connections and decline by 14% (Monmouthshire and deprived communities cultural associations between Well-Being Assessment, 2017). disadvantaged by their location these communities and the Levels. with poorer access to services to Nonetheless, existing and new Census figures from 2011 support employment. communities on the Gwent Levels show 98% of Monmouthshire’s remain connected to the area’s population are of white ethnicity. This landscape includes the landscape history through their Those who consider themselves most populated and developed shared vulnerability to flooding and of Asian ethnicity the next most part of Wales. The built-up land inundation if drainage systems are common with 1% of the population comprises the town of Chepstow not maintained. (900 persons). There are only small and the Severnside settlements numbers of black and minority in Monmouthshire (Caldicot, Chepstow and the ethnic residents in Monmouthshire. Rogiet and Magor/Undy); the Severnside Settlements southern and eastern edge of the City of Newport (including the Monmouthshire is a predominantly neighbourhood of Dufryn, the rural county with a total population Docks, the Llanwern Steelworks of 85,000. The Severnside and the adjacent Glan Llyn area includes several areas of major development site); and the population in the south of the eastern edge of the City of Cardif County – including Portskewett, (including Marshfield). Caldicot, Rogiet, Magor and Undy within the LLLP area, which together combine to form the largest area of urban population in the county (almost 20,000 people). The population of Monmouthshire

Living Levels 71 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Jeremy White

City of Newport Age profile by wards in LLLP area - Newport

Five wards in Newport are within Ward All Ages Aged 16 to 64 Aged over 65 the LLLP boundary – Llanwern, Lliswerry, Pillgwenlly, Tredegar Park Lliswerry 12694 8232 (65%) 1621 (13%) and Marshfield. Llanwern 2952 1892 (64%) 517 (18%) The age structure of the population in Newport is diferent Pillgwenlly 7490 5022 (67%) 772 (10%) to the Wales average with a higher percentage of people under the Tredegar Park 4446 2785 (63%) 550 (12%) age of 15, a lower percentage of over the age of 65, and high Marshfield 6364 4070 (64%) 1001 (16%) numbers of vulnerable low income families. (Newport, Community Well-Being profile 2017). Poland, Philippines, Germany, traveller communities in Wales. 28 This table reveals an age divide South Africa, Nigeria, Italy households living in Newport are between urban wards (Lliswerry, and Zimbabwe. The highest headed by someone who was a Pillgwenlly, Tredegar Park) and concentration of Black and Gypsy or Irish Traveller, likely a very rural wards (Marshfield and ethnic minority groups are in significant underrepresentation Llanwern) with higher numbers urban areas. In rural wards such of the true figure as many of young people (0-15) present as Marshfield and Llanwern, households would likely not have in the more urban wards and over 96% of the population completed the census. This is higher numbers of over 65s in is ethnically white whereas therefore an important minority the rural wards. it is between 65 and 89% in community within Newport. Pillgwenlly and 89% in Lliswerry The city has the second largest (Newport Community Well-being number of people from a minority profile, 2017). Welsh Government background of all the Welsh Local Authority data projections Councils after Cardif. The 2011 estimate the population of the census found that 8% of Newport’s Newport region is predicted to residents were born outside the increase by 17% by 2036. UK but this figure is rising. In order of highest numbers first Newport has one of the highest were: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, populations of Gypsy, Roma and

Living Levels 72 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

City of Cardif main residential communities of Cardif East are located north of Within the study area, the eastern the main-line railway. edge of the City of Cardif is located within a well-defined 9.4% are non-white and the landscape setting with prominent majority of these are mixed/ ridges to the north and the Severn multiple ethnic groups (3.3%) Estuary to the south. The river Asian/Asian British (2.9%) and valley of the Rhymney provides Black/African/Caribbean both at 2.1 an extensive and continuous %. Gypsy or Irish Travellers stand green corridor running from the at 0.7% (Cardif East Liveable City Gwent Levels through the urban Report, 2016). area. Over the last 50 years or so, there has been considerable There is a mix of housing tenures, encroachment of urban residential with over 30% of the dwelling stock development onto Wentlooge in Llanrumney and Trowbridge Level as Cardif has expanded wards being in the social rented eastwards, such as the Pwll-Mawr sector. To the south of the main- Business Park. line railway are the employment and business areas of Wentloog, as The Cardif East Neighbourhood well as the Shirenewton Traveller Partnership Area is comprised of site (Cardif East Neighbourhood the Electoral Wards of Llanrumney, Action Plan 2016-17). Rumney and Trowbridge –falling within the LLLP boundary. Cardif East has a resident population of 36,700; accounting for around a tenth (10.3%) of the total Cardif population. It has the largest popu- lation of people aged 0-14 in all the Cardif Neighbourhood partnership areas (22%) and a high proportion of people aged 20-29 (20%). The

Living Levels 73 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Socio-economic trends

Economic indicators

The high populations of the are deemed to be in the 20% Nine LSOAs in the East of Cardif towns and cities on the doorstep most deprived areas (Cardif East rank in the top 25% most deprived of the Gwent Levels and higher Liveable City Report, 2016). by the employment indicators of than average levels of deprivation WIMD and Cardif East (16.7%) has in the landscape area place Monmouthshire is generally the second highest percentage significant pressures on the a prosperous area and has no of all regions in Cardif of its landscape and challenges for the LSOAs in the top 20% most population aged 16-64 claiming LLLP. The Gwent Levels has the deprived in Wales. However, three out-of-work benefits (Cardif East potential to provide access to of the 11 most deprived areas Neighbourhood Partnership, 2016). high-quality greenspace for the in Monmouthshire are located Cardif is just below the Wales residents of Cardif and Newport within Severnside. Although average in terms of number of and the wider “City Region” and Monmouthshire’s natural workless households, however, to help deliver community health environment is a big asset, the while Cardif communities like and well-being benefits. rural landscape brings with it some Rhiwbina and Radyr have less than challenging issues associated with 5% of children under the age of 20 Deprivation is generally higher isolation, mobility, deprivation living in low-income families, the in urban areas although varies and access. Access to services is a figure sits at 34.8% for Cardif East according to the indicator. particular challenge: of 56 ‘LSOAs’ (Liveable City Report, 2015). PiIllgwenlly ranks in the top 10% in Monmouthshire, 22.4% are in most deprived areas in Wales as do the most deprived 10% in Wales some of the Lower Super Output including areas inside Portskewett Areas in Lliswerry and Tredegar and Rogiet in the LLLP area Park (WIMD, 2016). There are for this indicator (WIMD, 2016). also more afuent communities Many services such as hospitals, in rural areas such as Redwick, supermarkets and schools and Llanwern and Underwood - a small activities for disabled people are community on the outermost in urban areas or designed to be north eastern edge of the ward accessed by car (Monmouthshire accessible only via Llanwern or Well-being assessment, 2017). Langstone villages.

More than two-fifths (43.5%) of the 23 LSOAs in Cardif East are ranked in the 10% most deprived areas in Wales, while three-fifths (60.9%)

Living Levels 74 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

“Newport is, as it has always been, a tale of two cities. There are the well of and there are still people living in extreme poverty and everything in between”

—(Newport Community Well-being Profile, 2017)

Five LSOAs in Newport within In Monmouthshire there has been the LLLP boundary feature in an increase in the percentage the top 25% most deprived by of children living in workless the employment indicators. households rising from 4.9% Pillgwenlly performs worst with in 2009 to 6.6% in 2015 - still 30% or more of the working- much lower than the Wales age population claiming at least average of 13.6% (Monmouthshire one out-of-work welfare benefit Well-being Assessment, 2017). whereas Pillgwenlly and Tredegar However, this measure is generally Park are amongst those with regarded as a key indicator the highest rates (40%) of low of poverty and suggests that income for families with children poverty is still deeply embedded for Newport - a key indicator of in some isolated pockets of poverty. The rural fringe wards Monmouthshire. Where poverty tend to record significantly lower exists in the county it can be all levels with rates typically a quarter the more stark where it features or less than urban counterparts alongside significant afuence. (Newport Community Well-being Compounding this, people on Profile, 2017). low incomes increasingly tend to live in areas with others who are materially disadvantaged. Deprived neighbourhoods often have inadequate housing and a lack of basic amenities and services, all of which can contribute to stress and other health and well-being issues.

Living Levels 75 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Health and Well-being

Air quality is the leading cause of the environmental burden of disease in Europe. In February 2016, it was reported that 40,000 additional deaths per year are attributable to poor air quality, with a health cost of £20 billion per annum (Royal College of Physicians, 2016).

As can be seen in Figure 8, given the proximity of urban areas, the entire LLLP area covers some of the worst performing Air quality areas in Wales.

Figure 8 — Air Quality Map of Wales

Living Levels 76 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Figure 9 — GI Assets

Hospital admissions and Deaths and over by 185% by 2039. This highest levels of overweight and per 100,000 population from is above the increase projected obese adults and children in cardiovascular and respiratory across Wales of 72% and the Cardif. Compounding this, higher disease are above the Newport second highest increase in Wales percentages of people in the most and Wales averages in Pillgwenlly after Flintshire (Monmouthshire deprived areas are reported as in particular (Newport Community Well-being Assessment, 2017). being obese compared to people Well-being Profile, 2017). During 2015, dementia overtook living in the least deprived areas. heart disease as the leading In Cardif, seven LSOAs within cause of death in England and Increasing levels of physical the LLLP boundary rank in the Wales, in part because people are activity across Wales, particularly top 10-20% most deprived in living longer but also because of amongst the least active, is terms of health, in particular St improved detection and diagnosis. a stated priority for the Chief Mellons, Rumney and Trowbridge. Medical Ofcer for Wales (CMO Life expectancy and other health The cost of physical inactivity Annual report 2013-14). Using indicators suggest people are to Wales is estimated to be £650 the outdoors as a means of generally worse across a range of million per year. Public Health encouraging recreation has been health indicators in Cardif East Wales are also warning of a Type well documented, and the Gwent compared to the rest of Cardif 2 diabetes epidemic in Wales. Levels ofers many opportunities (Cardif East Neighbourhood However, it’s widely recognised to access the outdoors for Partnership, 2016). that several of the key health responsible recreation. issues faced by Wales (and other LSOAs in Monmouthshire in the countries) are considered to be Figure 9 shows the potential for 10% most deprived LSOAs in Wales ‘preventable’ (Chief Medical Ofcer the Living Levels area to act as for health and 81% of people in Annual Report 2013-14 & 2014- vital community greenspace as Severnside consider their general 15). The Monmouthshire and set out in the Regional Green health to be good or very good Newport well-being assessments Infrastructure Strategy: which is above the Wales average. identifies obesity as the most Key pressure in Monmouthshire in potent risk factor for Type 2 In addition, the landscape could terms of healthcare is predicted to diabetes. Across Wales rates of ofer significant mitigation come from its ageing population - diabetes have increased from 5% opportunities from air pollution the population aged 65 and over is in 2003/04 to 7% in 2015/16 with by ofering recreational resources projected to increase by 61% and, 7% of Monmouthshire residents to escape efects (Mirzaei, 2015). more significantly, those aged 85 currently being treated. Newport According to a recent MIND report is above the Welsh average for on ecotherapy there is a significant obesity in adults (62% compared opportunity for GP’s to consider to 59%) with the trend for obesity prescribing conservation projects increasing. Cardif East has the

Living Levels 77 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

or walking groups as a serious These benefits can impact a wide treatment options for some mental range of the population leading to health conditions. The evidence higher educational achievement, for the benefit of physical activity reduced unemployment, reduced for mental health conditions is reliance on welfare and disability compelling (NICE, 2013), and there benefits, higher productivity in is a growing body of evidence that the workplace, reduced crime and suggests this efect is magnified anti-social behaviour, better social when in the right kind of tranquil, relationships and community natural space (Mass, et al, 2006). involvement and reduced costs to health and social services. Research shows that when However as always, it is the most communities engage with their vulnerable of society that have the local green spaces, and when most to gain and the least chance green spaces are fully integrated of engaging. with the built environment, there are direct health and well-being Key vulnerable groups include: benefits for people, wildlife and habitats (Van den Berg et al, 2010). Ŕ

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Living Levels 78 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Well-being Objectives

The public body partners in the Natural Resources Wales Monmouthshire County Council LLLP are required to publish well-being objectives and a well- Ŕ

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Living Levels 79 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Newport City Council Cardif Council
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Living Levels 80 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Introducing the Gwent Levels Landscape

Summary

Use of the natural environment We aim to increase the satisfaction can support social resilience of existing audiences and broaden by providing opportunities for the range of people engaging with interaction and engagement. This heritage so that it better represents helps build social cohesion, along the socio-economic diversity with improving mental well-being within the area. and increased physical activity, both of which are of particular The Living Levels programme benefit in more deprived areas, has the potential to help deliver where social resilience is often at a significant health and well- lower level. being benefits for the relevant populations. The high population cities on the doorstep of the Levels ofer significant potential for our programme to engage with large numbers of people, from a wide range of ages, ethnicities and social backgrounds.

Living Levels 81 Living Levels 82 Living Levels 83 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Visitors / Who Visits and Who Could Visit

Another important task during the Development The visitor economy of South East Wales is worth Phase has been to develop a better understanding of more than £2bn to the overall region with Cardif visitor usage of the Gwent Levels and the potential for generating 50% of tourism income generation – the developing the area as a visitor destination. Capital represents latent opportunities to attract visitors who may been drawn, initially, to its high There is a lack of primary data for visitors to the profile city ofer and sport and cultural events to Levels area as an “entity” – both quantitative and embracing a wider suite of experiences (on ofer in qualitative data is light - but we do know, from studies the Levels) that lie within easy reach (Cardif Tourism carried out by Tredegar House (80,000 visits per Strategy and Action Plan, 2015). year), Caldicot Castle (55,000) and Newport Wetlands (100,000 visits per year) – the three key visitor Despite some good studies for specific areas, attractions in the LLLP area at present - that these currently there is no real on-the-ground attempt to individual attractions are recording healthy, consistent tell the stories of the Levels to either existing users visitor numbers and, also, data available from the (who are as varied as shoppers in the retail park, to 2016 Wales Visitor Survey for each of the individual walkers on the Wales Coast Path, to birdwatchers at destinations helps us consider what those visitors rate the Wetlands centre) or potential users. If people don’t as important aspects of their decision to visit. understand why the Levels area is ‘special’ then they are unlikely to appreciate it. This deficit needs to be Monmouthshire’s appeal (evidenced in the 2016 addressed, so that users are more understanding of Visitor survey) is clearly for couples and families the precious character of the Levels and their own with young children enjoying the outdoors, role in its sustainability. history, heritage and events, although these are largely seasonal; Newport and Cardif both benefit significantly from business orientated visits, helping to iron out the peaks and troughs of seasonality and mid week occupancy levels. The latter has also seen a rapid growth in city leisure breaks in recent years as Cardif’s national and international profile has been boosted (and visitor interest fed by constituent accommodation promotion, infrastructure development and event programming that has put the destination at front of mind for many considering a UK short break).

Living Levels 82 Living LevelsLiving Levels 83 83 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Image Credit: Roy Parkhouse

Most recent data (2016 South East STEAM figures can give us Wales Visitor Survey, Beaufort a picture of current tourism Research) gives us a general activity (2015) picture for the region as a whole. Ŕ
Monmouthshire Visitors 1.2m Notably “The majority of visitors to staying and 1.7 day South East Wales are from Wales (71%), which is higher than for Ŕ
Newport Visitors 0.7m Wales as a whole. This reflects the staying and 2m day visitors higher proportion of day visitors to (the latter driven, in part, by this area than to Wales generally” in business tourism) addition to which “ the age profile of visitors to South East Wales Ŕ
Cardif Visitors 2m staying and also reflects the all Wales profile; 18.5m day younger people aged 16 – 34 years account for just under a quarter of visitors (23%), while around four in ten are aged 35-54 years and 55+ years.” Also of interest when considering delivery planning is “…the high prevalence of ABC1 visitors; these make up around two thirds of visitors to South East Wales (64%), while C2DE visitors account for just over a third (35%).”

Living Levels 84 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Image Credit: Robin Drayton

Living Levels STEAM Analysis 4

A breakdown of data Wales Coast Path usage and a private car park that is open (disaggregated as far as possible) for public use with a charge (now relating to the Living Levels area In general, user figures for in very poor condition). gives us an impression of current the whole of the Cardif to activity that, although not detailed, Monmouthshire stretch of the The 2013 Wales Coast Path Visitor at least provides a baseline upon WCP have been consistently down Survey reported figures for the which to monitor future trends. compared to other regions in Cardif to Monmouthshire stretch Wales. WCP counters show very as its own separate category 2015 Figures (extract from uneven usage along the Gwent but the 2015 survey aggregated STEAM report 2015) Levels stretch, ranging from the them together with the Vale of higher end numbers of 27,568 at Glamorgan, Neath Port Talbot Category Tourist East Usk Lighthouse and 20,315 and Cardif which could distort Number at Black Rock to the lower end the figures for the Cardif to (thousands) figures of 3,069 at Redwick Sea Monmouthshire stretch. For that Wall and St Brides footbridge reason we have used figures from Serviced 206.3 1,270 (WCP counters report, 2015). the 2013 survey to give a truer Accommodation The variability of ease of access reflection of the stretch of interest from population centres, local to the LLLP. Non-Serviced 7.9 economics and coastal geography Accommodation are very diferent which explains The average distance travelled some of this lack of uniformity. in one visit for the Cardif to Visiting Friends 108.2 The Black Rock figure is located Monmouthshire section of the and Relatives on a very well used stretch of path was 1.3 miles (1.8 miles was path between Sudbrook and Black the average across the whole of Day Visitors 1,048.1 Rock and so captures a lot of users Wales). The NRW WCP survey walking this short length and dog points out that high numbers TOTAL 1,370.5 walking from both Black Rock car of older path users are likely to park and the residents of Sudbrook, bring this average distance down reflecting high levels of local usage. with younger singles and couples It is also one of the easiest access walking on average further per points on the whole of the WCP in visit. In terms of socio-economic Monmouthshire. The Lighthouse data, the majority of the path Inn is a popular starting point for many short walks with both a pub

4 This is based on ward boundaries and includes high footfall sites including Tredegar House, Caldicot Castle and the Wetlands Centre. It also includes St Mellons and St Pierre Hotels but excludes the Coldra major accommodation cluster.

Living Levels 85 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

users nationally are from the Despite its investment, the open. The Newport to Cardif link, higher social grades of ABC1 (72%). Gwent Levels coast remains when completed, will provide a However, users of the Cardif – an under-utilised and often continuous commutable cycle Monmouthshire stretch are most underappreciated asset. The route over to Cardif from Newport likely to belong to the C2DE groups Living Levels Visitor Destination centre, however, currently only the (35%). The average age of path Management Plan concludes that Newport section of route 88 has users here is 51 (compared to a there is considerable room to grow been completed. Cardif Council national average 53) and less than the overnight stays and trips from have set out their proposals for an 19% of users are under 34, (though further afield with the potential of East West Primary Route from the this is higher than the national adding greater value to the local centre of Cardif in their Integrated average of 13%). economy than at present. Network Map which will provide a link to St Mellons Business Park The Cardif to Monmouthshire Cycle Routes via Newport Road and Cypress stretch had the lowest percentage Drive. Proposals are to be sent of mobility-restricted users of Part of the Chepstow to Swansea out to consultants to detail up all the WCP at just 5% usage section of the National Cycle during 2017-2018. St Mellons compared to a national average Route 4 crosses the Gwent Levels, Business Park is in the Cardif Local of 12%. This stretch also had a linking Chepstow and the Newport Development Plan as a ‘strategic much greater proportion of day Transporter Bridge via a 22 mile site for employment’ and the plan users compared to the average stretch. This is part of the so-called also refers to the potential for a link at 91% (national average, 61%). Celtic Trail – a strategic Sustrans between the end of NCN Route 88 In terms of spend, the average promoted route of 377 miles in and Hendre Lake. total daily spend by the walking length linking Chepstow to the party excluding accommodation Pembrokeshire Coast National Currently there are no people was also the lowest in 2013 Park via NCN routes 4 and 47. counters or usage figures for all regions for the Cardif to From here, it is possible to link available for route 4 and counters Monmouthshire stretch at just NCN 4 with the newly created have only recently been installed £6.98 compared to the average of Route 88 to Marshfield via a new this year for route 88 in the £15.62 In addition, the 2015 WCP stretch which was opened by Gwent Levels stretch – these will report highlights that the South Newport City Council in 2015. need to be added for route 4 and Coast stretch also had the lowest Route 88, when completed, will be readings taken so as to establish number of visitors from England a coastal route between Newport, baseline usage levels for diferent and the rest of the UK at just 7% Cardif, Bridgend and Margam user categories and changes compared to the national average Country Park. Currently it is being following any future investments of 38%. developed and only parts are in cycling infrastructure.

Living Levels 86 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

As part of engagement during attraction when open ). There Over the course of the the Development Phase, the was demand for a better link Development Phase the issue of Living Levels Community from Tredegar House to Newport the lack of a Newport to Cardif Engagement Ofcer ran an Wetlands and for improved cycle route for commuters informal consultation exercise waymarking to help people get on has been repeatedly raised as aimed primarily at a family to the routes from starting points a concern and Sustrans have audience at the Newport Family which are not located on or near to informed us that this is a frequent Cycling Festival in 2016. Twenty the routes – currently people find issue raised with them. Cycling has families were asked what routes it very confusing to navigate on also been a frequent topic raised they liked and disliked, and where to the main strategic routes which as part of the Good Levels, Bad they would most like to see puts them of. There were also Levels exercise – both for positive investment. Top current routes in safety concerns, particularly with and negative reasons. Below the Levels included local sections the Coast Road (B4239) through is a summary of the responses of Route 4 and routes taking in the Wentlooge Level and parts of received which relate to cycling the Transporter Bridge (a popular Broadstreet Common. and equestrian access:

Theme: Cycling/Equestrian

Positive Negative

Number of 20 14 Comments Collected

What People Said What People Said

Very easily accessible-cycling is the best in You can cycle to the Bay but the (Cardif)East the country end of the Levels is pretty hair-raising Cycling in the area very popular - all around Access routes for bicycles are challenging/ the Levels superb for cycling, distributor sometimes blocked (private land)-no mini road has really opened up for Newport circular routes cyclists-from Newport through Nash to the No horse friendly routes other than roads! Wetlands More cycle lanes (i.e. Caldicot to Langstone- Cycling clubs in the area always looking for more than enough room. Caldicot to Rogiet somewhere safe to cycle cycle lane just stops Hardest part of cycling on the Levels is No cross-Levels equestrian route having to say hello to everyone! Cycle route Newport to Cardif not great Cycle routes very important No horse friendly roads The 47 Loop is very good Some of the (national) cycle routes not great Cycle Route 4 is a beautiful route-needs a bit therefore better cycle links/access needed of tender loving care Not safe for bikes - especially kids Would be great to have a good family day Becoming rat-runs for motorists so if we are out cycling then be able to cycle home encouraging more cyclists then we need to Have noticed more cyclists, particularly on be aware and careful Sunday but increasing during the week, beginning to go down the Levels on the smaller roads Magor Church good cycling venue: Cakes n’ Cofee!

Living Levels 87 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Equestrian Ŕ

there is a high demand for safe for equestrian use across the additional routes in the area Monmouthshire coast. The Newport City Council held a only stretches of the WCP in series of open days in 2011 at Ŕ

however there are few places Monmouthshire available for Goldclif and Peterstone to seek where circular routes could equestrian use are the short feedback on equestrian access be identified due to the bridleway section from Sudbrook during which concern was raised fragmented nature of public to Black Rock and the restricted over the limited opportunities routes and/or to avoid routes byways across Caldicot Moors. for horse riding and this led to joining roads with heavy trafc the commissioning of a report, ‘a In 2014/15 the Council commis- ‘Rights of Way Improvement Plan : A meeting was held during 2012 sioned, with WCP grant support, Improvement of Routes for Horse with local horse riders to identify an assessment of the potential to Riders’ in August 2012. The report suitable routes. Six routes were improve bridleway access in the looked at opportunities for: identified for circular rides, those coastal corridor. This study built within the study area are: on the similar work carried out by Ŕ

ensuring the rights of way Newport Council. Two potential network is available to all Ŕ

Route 2 Whitson and areas to provide better links were user groups Redwick 12km identified, to the west and east of Caldicot Moors, however subse- Ŕ

negotiating with landowners to Ŕ

Route 3 St Brides and quent discussions with landowners create well sign posted circular Coedkernew 5km have revealed very little prospect routes for horse riders of achieving these routes by Ŕ

Route 5 Wetlands 6km agreement and options are Ŕ

ways in which green lanes severely constrained by limited could be linked to the public In addition, the’ Ponderosa’ Riding access points across the motor- rights of way network stables located in Llanwern way and railway. Consequently no attended a Living Levels business further progress has been made Key points that emerged: engagement forum looking to in their delivery. It will be revisited broaden their ofer. through the Living Levels delivery Ŕ

there are a significant number period but unless key landowners of horse riders within and close In Monmouthshire, since the can be convinced, it’s unlikely that to the City boundary, several start of the Wales Coastal Access the position will change. livery yards, and a number of programme, the Council has landowners keep horses. identified the limited opportunities and lack of a coherent network

Living Levels 88 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Image Credit: Robin Drayton

Visitor Demographics

In terms of exploring the opportunities for the Living Lev- els Landscape it is important to understand the local and wider sub-regional demographic profile. As part of the Destination Management Study a demograph- ic review of the residential population living within the 0 to 30, 0 to 60 minute drivetime con- Headline population Within the overall 60 minute tours was carried out. Due to the The headline residential population drivetime contours of each nodal size of the study area three nodal figures are set out in the table point the residential population is points were selected – Caldicot below. Within the immediate over 1.6 million residents and for Castle in the east, Tredegar House 30 minute drivetime contour of Tredegar this reaches to just under in the West and more centrally each site the population reached 2 million residents. In terms of the the RSPB Cymru Newport Wet- varies between just under 100,000 size of the market these are strong lands Centre. The local market, residents for Caldicot Castle, headline population figures across particularly within the 0 to 30 240,000 for RSPB Cymru Wetlands all three nodal points. minute drivetime contour is likely Centre and over half a million for to be the key driver of users along Tredegar House. with visitors generated from the wider tourism base. The visitor Drive Times Caldicot RSPB Cymru Tredegar flows from the tourism market are (Minutes) Castle Newport House subject to seasonal variations. It Wetlands is acknowledged that the further residents are located away from 0 to 30 87,671 239,341 539,757 the Gwent Levels, the propen- sity to visit and interact with the 0 to 60 1,673,570 1,699,093 1,962,781 landscape will decrease and the competitive marketplace will be Source: GeoPlan extended.

Living Levels 89 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

On the following pages we set out the 30 minute drivetime maps for all three points.

Caldicot Castle:

30 minutes – source GeoPlan

Living Levels 90 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

RSPB Newport Wetlands Centre:

30 minutes – source GeoPlan

Tredegar House:

30 minutes – source GeoPlan

Living Levels 91 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Living Levels 92 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Image Credit: Jeremy White

Perceptions of the Gwent Levels as a Destination

From the engagement carried out during the Development Phase it has also been possible to establish key perceptions of the Gwent Levels as a place to visit. Out of 175 respondents to the question ‘What do you associate with the Gwent Levels?’ in the Newport Involve Survey, 19 people had never heard of the Gwent Levels at all, and 60 people associated it narrowly with the Newport Wetlands Reserve area and Goldclif; there were only 5 people who mentioned any place names or features on the Wentlooge Level. The graph and wordcloud below show the range of answers received:

Living Levels 93 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

Image Credit: Nigel Pugh

Sample answers: Transport was perceived to be Ŕ

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people from visiting the Levels and cycling, heavy industry Irish tinkers illegal dumping (140 comments received) as well alongside puts people of of rubbish. as parking, lack of organised exploring the areas. information and time to plan trips. Ŕ

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visit to see and survey A few other sample answers are publicised or waymarked. wildlife and carry out given below: conservation work. On the question of new routes that Ŕ

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access across the Gwent Levels, 95 city it seems. field become big fields easier to comments were received. These work destroys the nature of the were fairly wide-ranging in views - Ŕ

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place. Filling in ditches has same the following issues were raised by reens, etc. with appropriate impact. Removing the traditional more than five people: wildlife. Sparsely populated, drainage by grip and furrow in a with somewhat ‘stark’ but few fields lowers the water table attractive features. and makes a large area drier, again changing its character. Ŕ

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wetlands I would have known Ŕ

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what this was about. Wild life, find it difcult to use the facilities nice walks, good café fresh air as I walked using a rollator and the ground last time I visited was uneven.

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area, don’t know what land is farmed and privately owned..

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around money.

Living Levels 94 Part One – The Scheme Plan / Visitors

1. Concerns about route legibility and information on routes being fairly poor for non-expert users, 2. Concern about safety of some routes especially for families with young children, 3. Challenges during winter due to water-logged paths (seasonality of routes), 4. User conflicts mentioned quite a few times (horses and bikes churning up paths for walkers). 5. There is a high demand for links from city centres and residential areas to the Ŕ

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Coast. routes. Fill in the missing links. most of the Monmouthshire 6. There is a high level of More circular walks. Extend section many times. It is lovely concern about new routes cycling to Newport Centre and relaxing, beautiful scenery creating disturbance for the and Chepstow. wildlife interests. Ŕ

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from Cardif to Chepstow, 51 Rogiet, lovely old church with respondents named three places medieval tombs A further selection of sample they liked to visit and the reasons answers is below. why, with Newport Wetlands, Ŕ

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out top – Wentlooge locations are Ŕ

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is its value. consistently under-represented in foreshore-bird and other wildlife the survey. Ŕ

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A key open-ended question asked more people access footpaths. A sample of locations and ‘What makes it difcult to visit the reasons are included below: Gwent Levels currently?’ Although Ŕ

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12 respondents out of 51 indicated and cities in the area would be Ŕ

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that they found no difculty, the a massive benefit. Especially waste transformed into a haven top response was ‘Transport to the if the cycle paths were well for wildlife and for people to Levels’ with ‘Time’ and ‘Lack of maintained and signposted. The enjoy it signage/paths’ also scoring highly. Taf trail is a good example. Ŕ

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Levels? That’s brilliant but education and knowledge is poor. Ŕ

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estuary - and the walk across Ŕ

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the fields and reens seem to be taking over the walk ways where disabled people Ŕ

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have to move out of the way. wind in your face

Living Levels 95 Image Credit: Newport CC

Living Levels 96 Living Levels 97